Salute - Summer 2023

FRANCISCAN CARE is Restored at Walter Reed Medical Center.

Article on page 38

The seasons remind us that time passes. Our lives are filled with many activities, and we try to meet the demands that are made. Calendars fill up, and the happy, more tranquil days give way to new challenges and a renewal of activities. This last part of the liturgical year issues the invitation to consider the last things and the goal of our earthly pilgrimage: the Kingdom of God.

Every day offers us the possibility to give thanks to Almighty God and to grow in our appreciation of His will for us. Each day also opens the door to a new opportunity to fill our world with the fragrance of the Gospel.

During the month of October, bishops and faithful from all over the world will gather in Rome for the Synod on Synodality. It will be an additional opportunity to listen and to be attentive to the reflections that resulted from the earlier moments in Catholic communities, in dioceses, and in the virtual gatherings held with Canada and the United States. We continue to pray for the success of this time in the hope that it will offer deeper understanding and new ways to teach the lasting truths of faith. We also continue our constant prayer for world peace.

In this issue of Salute the Auxiliary Bishops, and I tell you about our most recent pastoral activities, others talk about archdiocesan events and initiatives, and you will meet yet another co-sponsored seminarian.

It has been a joy to gather for the first priest convocations of this cycle. Those moments with priests from all the branches are precious opportunities to see how they are doing. They are also occasions to grow and develop in all aspects of our ministry to those who serve.

Enjoy the following pages of Salute. May the Lord fill your hearts with His presence and give you serenity in these ever-challenging days. We continue to support one another in prayer.

Sincerely in Christ,

e Most Reverend Timothy P. Broglio, Archbishop

TABLE of CONTENTS

4 Fruitful, but Active Days

Archbishop Timothy P. Broglio

10 Love is on the Move, When Jesus is in the Room

Bishop F. Richard Spencer

14 Praying for Preachers

Bishop Bill Muhm

16 VAMC Priest-Chaplains Making a Di erence

Bishop Joseph Co ey

18 e Circuit Driver Bishop

Bishop Neal J. Buckon

24 REACH MORE TM in Japan and Beyond

Madeline Stockman

32 Archbishop Timothy Broglio Appoints New Vicar General and...

Taylor Henry

36 Franciscans Return to Walter Reed...

Taylor Henry

42 Catholic U.S. Military Couples Gather...

Taylor Henry

44 In the Presence of Christ

José Amaya

46 e Harvest Continues

Meet Sam McPeak

COVER:

e Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, publishes SALUTE for the nation’s Bishops, active and retired military chaplains, and nancial supporters of the Archdiocese.

ADDRESS CHANGES AND NEW SUBSCRIPTIONS:

Please send title, name, address and phone number to: support@milarch.org call 202.719.3600 or write: Advancement O ce, Archdiocese for the Military Services, P.O. Box 4469, Washington, D.C., USA 20017-0469. Feedback, letters to the editor: editor@milarch.org | Website: www.milarch.org

BROTHER DAVID W. SCHLATTER, OFM, PREACHING AT WALTER REED MEDICAL CENTER.

Time marches on and life in the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, is never very sedentary. When I returned from Ukraine on New Year’s Day. I did not tarry long in Washington, D.C., SEEK, the annual gathering of universityaged young adults beckoned me to St. Louis.

A number of military-connected young adults were present and one gathering sponsored by the AMS had a standing room only crowd. The enthusiasm, the excellent talks, and

the prayerful liturgies were uplifting for all who participated. It fell to me to celebrate a Memorial Mass on 5 January for the late Pope Benedict XVI. It was the same day as his funeral in Rome. Once again at the death of a pope, it seemed better to be with the flock entrusted to me than to be in Rome for the celebrations. That was also the case when St. John Paul II passed away. I was in Rome for the annual curial visits made by Nuncios, but the Superiors told me that my place was in Santo Domingo at

FRUITFUL, BUT ACTIVE DAYS

BY ARCHBISHOP TIMOTHY P. BROGLIO

L TO R: FATHER BRENDAN MBAGWU, CH, CAPT, USAF (AIR FORCE CHAPLAIN FROM ALI) THE MOST REV. EUGENE NUGENT, APOSTOLIC NUNCIO TO KUWAIT, BAHRAIN, & QATAR, ARCHBISHOP TIMOTHY P. BROGLIO, FATHER SOJAN PARAPPILLY, CH (CPT) USA, REVEREND MONSIGNOR MARIO BIFFI (COUNSELOR OF THE NUNCIATURE) WITH ARGO THE HOUSE PET.

the Nunciature. In fact, I met those who came to sign the official condolence book and celebrated a number of requiem Masses for the repose of the soul of the great, saintly pontiff. Some things never change.

The rest of January was a series of travels: the regional bishops retreat in Florida with outstanding meditations from Bishop Felipe Estevez, a pastoral visit to MacDill Air Force Base, the Navy priests retreat, and an Evangelical Catholic seminar in Dallas. At the end of the month I

left for Kuwait and Bahrain and the annual pastoral visits there. In addition to planned visits with Fathers Sojan Parappilly, Brendan Mbagwu, Keith Wolfe, and Gregory Lesher, there was the surprise sighting of Father Cecil Cornielle, an Army chaplain who had been ministering to forces in Syria. In addition to celebrations, confirmations, and the usual protocol visits on the various installations there, the visits occasioned some precious time with the men, women, and families

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that are served by the AMS. Major Brendan McKnight whom I first knew as a West Point cadet also facilitated a dinner in the home of a retired Kuwaiti officer. That opportunity was unique.

Those pastoral visits ended in such a way that I returned to Washington on Sunday afternoon and was in a plane to Denver on Tuesday morning. At least, I was back in the office for a day to examine the mail! My capable assistant makes certain that the important things are on the top of the pile.

The visits to the installations in Colorado and Wyoming were fruitful. The arrangements were such that I only stayed overnight in three locations as opposed to the usual four. That annual journey is now so familiar that I do not really find it taxing. I look forward to seeing the people and celebrating the sacraments. The landscape is also always breath-taking.

It was a pleasure to return to Colorado Springs in June for the ordination of Father Thomas Pressley, whom I first met when he was a cadet at the Air Force Academy. It was a joy to ordain him a priest and to know concretely that the ministry continues. Such was also my pleasure assisting at the ordinations of Fathers Carlos

Warfield (Monterey), Charles Wilton, and Michael Nugent (both Arlington). The February Colorado visit finished in San Francisco for the annual spring discernment retreat. A number of fine candidates joined us at St. Patrick’s Seminary for days of prayer and reflection. These are moments of great hope for the future of the archdiocese and of the Church. The Lord still calls and young people are listening.

Ash Wednesday found me at the annual celebration at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. At the time I did not realize that the contract for the Franciscans was about to expire. I might have used my time with the acting director of the center to talk about its renewal. However, that crisis was resolved thanks to tireless efforts of retiring Army Chief of Chaplains, MG Thomas Soljhem, see article on page 38.

Once again an international flight welcomed me as I headed to Vienna to participate in the 20th Anniversary of the Military Diocese of Slovakia. It was a joyous occasion and Bishop Rabek was pleased that I was able to join in the festivities. I was also able to pay a brief visit to both the Nuncio in Bratislava and in Vienna. We had

all been in school together many years ago in preparation for direct service to the Holy See.

I concluded that European sojourn with my first visit to the Naval Station in Naples since 2009! Father James Harper (Allentown) planned the time well and allowed for extensive interaction with the faithful he serves. We also managed a quick Sunday visit to the great Abbey of Montecassino and prayed at the tomb of Saints Benedict and Scholastica, two who gave much to the Church in the western world.

Duties as President of the USCCB also include membership on the Board of Trustees of the Catholic University of America. It has been a pleasure to get better acquainted with my neighbors, learn about the great activities and projects that are theirs, and meet the people who form that learning community.

Lent also offered a few additional days of prayer at Clear Creek Abbey with a group of Air

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FATHER CECIL CORNIELLE, CH (MAJ), USA; FATHER SOJAN PARAPPILLY, CH (CPT), USA, ARCHBISHOP TIMOTHY P. BROGLIO, FATHER ROBERT LACEY, CH (MAJ) ARMY NATIONAL GUARD DURING A VISIT TO CAMP ARIFJAN.

Force Officers. It is good to spend time with them, to pray with the monks, and to see the abbey grow. It was a joy to participate in the installation of Bishop Mario Dorsonville in Houma-Thibodaux, Louisiana. His time as an auxiliary bishop of Washington gave us an opportunity to become friends. It was refreshing to see the warmth of the welcome and to spend some time with co-sponsored Father Daniel Duplantis, soon to enter the Air Force.

Of course, Holy Week usually occasions Palm Sunday Mass at Andrews AFB (Fathers Yakkel and Nelson), Holy Thursday and Good Friday at West Point (Fathers Akeriwe and Pawlikowski) and the Easter Vigil and Easter Sunday at Annapolis (Fathers Dwyer and Hoog, along with Deacon Persinger). The Triduum concludes with the Spanish Mass at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception.

After two confirmations at Nativity Parish in Burke, Virginia, I boarded a plane for Roma and my first

round of curial visits with Archbishop Lori, Vice-President of the USCCB, the Secretary General Father Michael Fuller, and Father Paul Hartmann, Associate General Secretary. The time was full, but the visits with the various dicasteries of the Roman Curia were fruitful.

Of course, returning to Rome for me is truly a home-coming. The week coincided with the annual Rector’s Dinner at the North American College,

ARCHBISHOP DURING ASH WEDNESDAY MASS AT WALTER REED MEDICAL CENTER.

my alma mater. Honored this year were Bishop William Murphy, the Bishop-emeritus of Rockville Centre, a long-time friend, and Supreme Knight Patrick Kelly of the Knights of Columbus. Readers of Salute know how indebted the AMS is to the Knights of Columbus. However, in the new Supreme Knight we have a former Navy-jag and a fine supporter of this global archdiocese.

That European visit ended on Friday and Saturday after a confirmation in the Diocese of Arlington, I was on the train to the Coast Guard Academy. Confirmation and the visit there went very well. The young men and women preparing to serve our country always inspire with their enthusiasm and the desire to grow in their faith.

In preparation for the Golden Jubilee of the Diocese of Arlington

Bishop Burbidge has been encouraging Catholics to grow in their love of the Eucharist (year one) and in this year to deepen their Marian devotion. I had the honor of giving the keynote on Marian devotion at the end of April. A few of our military families were present. At the conclusion I boarded a plane for the

annual visit to the Catholic community at Fort Buchanan and the VA Medical Center in San Juan, Puerto Rico.

It would have pleased me to spend more time there, but the annual Air Force Catholic chaplains’ retreat beckoned me. It is good to visit with the priests, encourage them, and hear the words of wisdom from the retreat director they have invited. Again this year they had a very good participation. Once again the International Military Pilgrimage to Lourdes was a smashing success. This year’s level of international participation was almost equal to pre-pandemic numbers. The healing, rejoicing, and prayerful events filled the hours of the pilgrimage. My French colleague kindly invited me to preside at the closing Mass. He preached eloquently and briefly!

The final European jaunt before World Youth Day was a meeting in Vienna of military ordinaries from around the world. The hospitality was splendid, the beauty of Vienna unfaded, and the distance—still long.

I give thanks to Almighty God for the privilege of ministering to His people, even if the pace keeps me on the move. V

LOVE is on the move, when JESUS is in the room.

BY BISHOP F. RICHARD SPENCER

Our Spring Chapel gatherings have been exciting and fun to engage, for truly, as the Gospel song reminds us: “Love is on the move, when Jesus is in the room!”

Two Regional MCCW Retreats were conducted this past spring, 2023, and the theme for each was “CHRIST IN ME” based on John 15:5 “I am the vine, you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit and apart from me you can do nothing”. I had the joy to attend both events and I feel that I was very much blessed by these significant moments with these holy women!

The MCCW Central Regional Retreat was conducted at the National Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows, Belleville, Illinois, 10-12 March. The three parts of the Retreat were to: CONNECT, UNITE, and INSPIRE. An opportunity to connect in person with other CWOC members, unite in devotion to the Eucharist, and inspire those attending to bring that devotion back to their chapels. Keynote Speakers were Sister Amanda Marie and Sister Laura of the Daughters of Saint Paul. The Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate and the Shrine Staff were very welcoming to this largest outdoor shrine in North America.

The MCCW Northeast Regional Retreat was held at Holy Family Passionist Retreat Center, Hartford, Connecticut, 27-30 April. During the retreat, there were many opportunities to buttress faith journeys by fellowship and catechesis

on the true presence of our Lord at Mass, in ourselves, and how to go forth and manifest how to live an authentic life nourished by the Holy Eucharist. The Keynote Speaker was Katie Taylor, a fellow active-duty military wife, Air Force veteran, MCCW member, and a Catholic speaker for “To the Heights” ministry. This retreat began with a Mass for healing, including the celebration of the sacrament of the anointing of the sick which was a great way to help cleanse and heal our souls and bodies. Also assisting during the retreat was Father Guillermo Mora Gomez, USA chaplain at Fort Gregg-Adams, formerly Fort Lee, and Father William Appel USN, chaplain at the US Coast Guard Academy, New London, CT. Another contributor was Catherine Duggan, a certified life and spiritual coach. She maintains a daily devotional podcast called “Walk Boldly with Jesus.” Another fantastic presenter with a powerful witness story to share with us was Sister Mary-Lanh Nguyen who belongs to the Congregation of the

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BISHOP F. RICHARD SPENCER (CENTER) WITH THE MEMBERS OF THE MCCW CENTRAL REGIONAL RETREAT.

is on the move...

Daughters of Mary Immaculate from Vietnam. She is currently a Theology teacher at Saint Gertrude High School, a Benedictine school, located in Richmond, VA.

These past weeks of May and June were also filled with the annual volunteer dinners and Masses held at many of our military chapels. I participated in two in particular, one at Minot AFB, North Dakota chapel under the leadership of Father Joseph Hoang and another event at Ellsworth AFB chapel, Rapid City, South Dakota, under the pastoral care of Monsignor Gerry McManus. Chapel volunteers are vital to the life of the Catholic chapel programs. They illustrate God’s presence through their service to participants in the life of the chapel and create opportunities for others to experience the joys of service in imitation of Jesus. We owe a debt of gratitude to all of our many chapel volunteers, for “LOVE IS ON THE MOVE, WHEN JESUS IS IN THE ROOM! V

MIDDLE: BISHOP F. RICHARD SPENCER (CENTER REAR) WITH FATHER JOSEPH HOANG (CENTER REAR, RIGHT OF THE BISHOP) IN THE CHAPEL AFTER MASS AT MINOT AFB, NORTH DAKOTA.

BOTTOM: BISHOP F. RICHARD SPENCER (FRONT ROW CENTER) WITH MONSIGNOR GERRY MCMANUS (FRONT ROW, LEFT OF THE BISHOP) WITH THE VOLUNTEERS AT THE ANNUAL VOLUNTEER DINNER HELD AT ELLSWORTH AFB CHAPEL, RAPID CITY, SOUTH DAKOTA.

TOP: BISHOP F. RICHARD SPENCER (BACK ROW CENTER) WITH THE MEMBERS OF THE MCCW NORTHWEST REGIONAL RETREAT.

PRAYING FOR PREACHERS

BY BISHOP BILL MUHM

This spring, I visited military Catholic communities in Belgium, Netherlands, Guam, Japan, Korea, Germany, England, and Romania. As an Episcopal Vicar, I am responsible for visiting over 40 military installations in Europe and Asia. I am expected to celebrate Mass for the people (on Sundays, whenever possible), to confirm, and to shepherd the priests. Normally, I celebrate Mass and preach while the resident priest concelebrates. I enjoy preaching, but I regret that I seldom have the opportunity to hear “my” priests preach. Nevertheless, the people tell me that many of them are very good preachers. I certainly believe

it! Through the Sacrament of Holy Orders, the Lord provides very powerful graces to preachers to help us in our sacred work of preaching the Gospel. But of course, there’s always room for improvement.

When a priest concelebrates Mass with a Bishop, the Roman Missal calls for him to approach the Bishop during the Gospel Acclamation and ask for the Bishop’s blessing. The Bishop will raise his hands over the priest’s head and pray: “May the Lord be in your heart and on your lips, that you may proclaim His Gospel worthily and well, in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit”, then the Bishop will make the sign of the Cross over him. I try to remember to remind the priest before Mass that when I pray that blessing over him, my intention is not only for him as he proclaims the Gospel passage of the day--after all, it is one thing to proclaim the Gospel passage of the day; it is another thing to preach! No, when I pray that blessing over a priest, my intention is that he, throughout his priesthood, will proclaim the Gospel worthily and well-as a preacher! So, even though I seldom hear the preaching of the priests whom I shepherd, I am confident that my blessing and prayer are instrumental in the Holy Spirit’s ongoing work to develop them as preachers. May God raise them up to become the preachers whom God’s holy people in AMS need them to be.

We preachers need the prayers of those who listen to us and those who support us. Thank you for your prayers and support for all of us at AMS. God bless you. V

BISHOP MUHM BLESSES FATHER KIZITO MAWAYIRA, CONTRACT PRIEST AT NAVAL AIR FACILITY ATSUGI, JAPAN, AT CONFIRMATION AND FIRST HOLY COMMUNION MASS ON SUNDAY, 16 APRIL 2023. PHOTO BY PETTY OFFICER SECOND CLASS HENRY LIU, USN.

VAMC Priest-Chaplains Making a Difference

BY BISHOP JOSEPH COFFEY

One of the great joys I have as the Vicar for Veterans Affairs for the AMS is to make pastoral visits to the more than 150 Medical Centers of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VAMC) located in every state in the country and the priest-chaplains who work in them. You can imagine the great diversity among these priests. They come from many different backgrounds and nationalities. Each one has unique stories of how God called him to the priesthood and then the chaplaincy.

On a recent road trip, I visited two priests who are both doing a fantastic job in taking care of our veterans, their families, and the staff members where they work as chaplains.

Father Jerry Steinbrunner, CPPS, (Missionaries of the Precious Blood) was born in Burkettsville, OH, and studied for the priesthood at Catholic Theological Union in Chicago. He spent many years in parish ministry in Cleveland, OH, and has worked as a chaplain at the Cincinnati, OH, VAMC since 2011. On my recent visit, we discussed plans that the VAMC was making for renovating the chapel spaces. As Catholics, we know the importance of having a separate Blessed Sacrament chapel where the faithful can pray in the presence of the Holy Eucharist in the Tabernacle. Any renovation plans must include these spaces for our Catholic veterans.

BISHOP JOSEPH COFFEY WITH FATHER JERRY STEINBRUNNER, CPPS, AT THE CINCINNATI VAMC.

Father David Meinzen is the chaplain I visited at the VAMC in Fort Wayne, IN. He has a very unique vocation story. He is the 10th living child of a Lutheran pastor and missionary who grew up in Utah and southern Illinois. He graduated college ROTC and commissioned in the Army Reserves in 1989. After his marriage to Elizabeth he spent his newlywed year training to fly UH1 helicopters in Alabama during Operation Desert Storm. They have three adult daughters. Father Meinzen earned his M. Div. at a Lutheran Seminary and, after many years of study and prayer, followed his call to the Orthodox Church where he was ordained, became a chaplain in the National Guard, and served a parish for nine years. During a deployment, he was so positively impressed by the Catholic chaplains he met that he felt called to the Ukrainian Catholic Church, was received into full communion, and was endorsed by the Archdiocese for the Military Services and granted biritual faculties.

Father Meinzen is the exception to the rule, a husband and father both biologically and spiritually,

serves the VAMC in Fort Wayne, as pastor to St. Andrew the Apostle Ukrainian Catholic Mission in Ft. Wayne, and also serves as a chaplain in the 122nd Fighter Wing, Indiana Air National Guard. Needless to write, Father Meinzen is blessed with great health, energy, and excellent time management skills. We are blessed to have these two fine priests and many others serving our veterans. V

BISHOP JOSEPH COFFEY (C) WITH FATHER DAVID MEINZEN (R) AND CHIEF CHAPLAIN WAYNE BEARDEN (L).

THE CIRCUIT DRIVER BISHOP

BY BISHOP NEAL J. BUCKON

IN HAWAII AND TEXAS

The annual pastoral visits to our Catholic communities in Hawaii are always a delight. In every chapel, our service members and their families greet me with the words, “Aloha, Bishop Buckon.” In addition, after I have finished vesting for Mass, the sacristan places a lei (a Polynesian garland of flowers) around my shoulders, and then Mass begins. Father Edward Gorman, O.P., hosted the first of the pastoral visits. CDR Gorman is the Base Chaplain at Marine Corps Base Hawaii, and he arranged for me to celebrate the sacraments of penance, first Holy Communion, and confirmation over the weekend. It was a joy to meet the Catholic community and worship with them in the chapel designed by and named after one of my predecessors, Bishop Joseph W. Estabrook.

FRONT ROW L-R: FATHERS JONG, LANUEVA, ZACCONE, BISHOPS SILVA AND BUCKON, FATHERS HARRIS, GABRIEL, AND FLEURY. BACK ROW L-R: FATHERS ALBRECHT, GORMAN, AND HAMEL.

I celebrated a daily Mass at Tripler Army Medical Center with Fathers Hank Albrecht and Victor Lanueva. They are retired Army chaplains that now serve as contract priests for Catholic-specific ministry to inpatients, outpatients, health care providers, and hospital staff and administrators. My trip to Oahu also included the celebration of a confirmation Mass at Joint Base Pearl Harbor – Hickam. Our Air Force Catholic chaplains, Fathers John Appiah and Tyler Harris, concelebrated the Mass. They also provide pastoral care to the sailors and their families assigned to the base. No trip to Hawaii is complete without visits to Schofield Barracks and the Aliamanu Military Reservation. Our Army Catholic chaplains: Fathers Joseph Fleury, Lyndon Jong, and John Gabriel concelebrated the weekend Masses there.

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THE CIRCUIT DRIVER BISHOP

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 19

Father (Colonel) Joseph Fleury, S.M., is currently the oldest soldier in the Army. He will retire very soon. With impeccable timing, Father (Colonel) Jim Hamel, USAF, returned from his operational mission in Japan and the Philippines. The Catholic military chaplains, contract priests, and I gathered at the Pacific Club in downtown Honolulu for a clergy dinner.

The Most Reverend Larry Silva, the Bishop of Honolulu, joined us. Together we thanked Father Fleury for his many years of service to God and country. We also thanked Bishop Silva for all that he and his diocese do to minister to Catholic military personnel. The ministerial collaboration in Hawaii is exemplary! The food was delectable and the company convivial. Father Albrecht said it best, “This was fun, and we should get together more often!”

I departed for the Lone Star State, Texas, for a 19-day circuit driving adventure. During this trip, I visited eight Department of Defense installations and one historic Army fort. The sequence of pastoral visits: Dyess AFB (vic. Abilene), Goodfellow AFB (vic. San Angelo), Fort Cavazos (formerly Fort Hood), Laughlin AFB (vic. Del Rio), Brooke Army Medical Center (Joint Base San Antonio), Randolph AFB (JBSA), Fort Sam Houston (JBSA), and Lackland AFB (JBSA). I enjoyed meeting three priests recently accessioned into the Army Chaplain Corps and assigned to Fort Cavazos. Fathers Eugene K. Savarimuthu (b. India), Jhon Madrid (b. Columbia), and Dominik Bakowski (b. Poland) are flourishing in their assignments and committed to leading the Catholic communities in worship on Sunday mornings. Over 700 attend Mass on Sunday morning. Father Savarimuthu presented 30 candidates for the sacrament of confirmation!

Mrs. Ann Pate, of the Fort Chadbourne Foundation, invited me to pray the “Invocation” at their annual “Evening with a Hero” event. Fort Chadbourne is a historic Army Fort on the Texas Forts Trail. The Fort is midway between Dyess AFB and Goodfellow AFB, and many active-duty service members attend the event. MSG Leroy Petry, USA-ret, was the guest of honor. He is a recipient of the Medal of Honor and is the current President of the Congressional Medal

“RANGERS

BISHOP BUCKON AND MASTER SERGEANT PETRY

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LEAD THE WAY”

THE CIRCUIT DRIVER BISHOP

of Honor Society of the United States of America. The dinner was attended by 400 patriots who wanted to meet and listen to an American hero known for his service, sacrifice, and valor. It is wonderful that the Fort Chadbourne Foundation provides this opportunity. It was an honor for me to lead hundreds of my fellow compatriots, from many faith groups, in praying for our Nation, our Military, the Guest of Honor, and our Veterans as the evening began.

Archbishop Gustavo Garcia-Siller of the Archdiocese of San Antonio ordained Father David Chacko, a Co-Sponsored Seminarian, a priest at the end of my

peregrination in Texas. I represented the AMS and joined Auxiliary Bishops

Michael J. Boulette and Gary W. Janak in concelebrating the Mass. Fathers Matthew Pawlikowski, USA (retired); Ken Nielson, USA (retired); David McGuire, USAF; Jhon Madrid, USA; Carlos Warfield, USAR, and sizeable contingents from Fort Cavazos and Joint Base San Antonio participated in this joyous occasion. The ordination Mass was beautiful, and it was such a promising day for the two archdioceses. Father Chacko will return to active-duty in the Army after a three-year assignment in a parish in his home archdiocese. V

BISHOP BUCKON AND THE FORT CAVAZOS CONFIRMATION CLASS

REACH MORE

in Japan and Beyond

BY MADELINE STOCKMAN

ARTICLE ON PAGE 26

YOKOSUKA CATHOLIC WOMEN’S GROUP (CWG) AND KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS (KofC) MEMBERS, WITH MADELINE STOCKMAN (BACK C) AND MARI PABLO (BACK R), GATHERED WITH THE VISITATION SISTERS AT THEIR CONVENT IN MIURA, JAPAN

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In May, the fifth and largest Reach More training group concluded, and another set of leaders began apostolates as missionary disciples. After a year of virtual Training Groups, Discipleship Workshops, and many hours of one-on-one mentorship, 17 personal apostolates are blooming and flourishing. Many other trained young adults and mentors are using their new skills in building relationships and even in ministry settings. From small groups for moms or young adult fellowship for trainees to prayer groups for vocations and adoration invitations, these individuals are truly reaching more – right where they are.

(L TO R) MARI PABLO AND MADELINE STOCKMAN SPENDING TIME IN TOKYO, JAPAN, WITH MEMBERS OF A YOUNG ADULT FELLOWSHIP APOSTOLATE.

While most training groups (TG) are comprised of individuals from a wide array of installations, TG 5 uniquely had a high concentration of leaders, all from Yokosuka Naval Base in Japan. With great community support, the Office of Evangelization conducted the first Reach More mission weekend experience for the Catholic community at Yokosuka. In partnership with The Evangelical Catholic, speaker Mari Pablo and I spent five action-packed days with the priests, staff, volunteers, community members, and their friends.

The first engagement was a private luncheon with the members of the Reach More TG and their priest-chaplains. Although it was the first time I had seen them in person, we had been meeting together virtually for many weeks already, and it was a joy to share hugs and a meal. It also provided the opportunity for the burgeoning leaders to speak freely to outgoing priest Father Samuel Schneider and incoming priest Father Jude Caliba about their experiences of faith and growth in the Reach More movement.

The following day we conducted a staff-training event on evangelization and discipleship where catechists and others engaged in team building and skill exercises. The largest event was a two-night Discipleship Mission open to the entire community that concluded in Eucharistic Adoration with praise and worship. During this visit, I also worked alongside the Catholic Women’s Group (CWG) and the Knights of Columbus for their annual spring cleanup at the convent of the Visitation Sisters in Miura, Japan. The time in Yokosuka afforded spiritual one-on-one mentorship meetings with the Catholic Parish Life Coordinator, the CWG president, the Youth Group Coordinator, and other members of the community.

As the Reach More movement continues to grow and flourish throughout the Archdiocese, I hope to see more military young adults and young adult mentors virtually for training and in-person for site visits. Reach More training is available virtually four times per year. V

For more information, please visit the AMS website www.milarch.org/reach-more or email reachmore@milarch.org

World Youth Day 2023

BY MARK MOITOZA, TH.D.

In early August, over 1.5 million pilgrims gathered in Lisbon for the final celebrations of World Youth Day. The theme was, “Mary arose and went with haste” (Lk 1:39). While the crowds and the heat in Portugal made going anywhere in haste a bit challenging neither brought down the mood of young people from around the world.

The example of Mary, in the land of her appearance at Fátima, was referenced frequently. Mary ran to Elizabeth to share that she bore the Christ child. “Do not tune out the voice of God, who urges you to arise and follow the paths He has prepared for you,” Pope Francis said. “Like Mary, and in union with her, may you daily bring to others all your love and joy.”

Over 90 pilgrims from U.S. military installations in Europe, Asia, and the United States participated in a multitude of catechetical sessions, prayers, and youth festival activities. Participants included groups from Fort Liberty, Ramstein Air Force Base (Germany), Naval Station Rota (Spain), the 10th Air Base Wing at the Air Force Academy, Spangdahlem AB (Germany), Camp Humphreys (South Korea), and a U.S. Army Officer studying in a masters program (United Kingdom), Dr. Mark Moitoza, Vice-Chancellor for Evangelization of the AMS, Fathers Michael Metz (Fort Liberty) and Mark Bristol (NAS Rota), Bishop Bill Muhm, and Archbishop Broglio. Three active-duty military personnel assisted with the processional canopy as Bishop Burns from the Diocese of Dallas carried the monstrance with the Blessed Sacrament through a crowd of 20,000 U.S. pilgrims gathered at Parque Quinta das Conchas, drawing all closer to the Lord Jesus.

On Friday, the military pilgrims gathered again at Igreja de São José dos Carpinteiros, Church of Saint Joseph of the Carpenters (a guild church in the center of Lisbon). Archbishop Broglio led the AMS Holy Hour in honor of Saint Paul the Apostle. The setting for this moment of adoration brought these military-connected pilgrims close to their Shepherd as they prayed together for all the faithful of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA. WYD sent all pilgrims from the missioning Mass to proclaim Christ to the world with a sense of haste and plenty of love and joy too. V

The Synodal Process: A Series of Stages Supported in Prayer

BY MARK MOITOZA, TH.D.

The Synod on Synodality, taking place from 2021-2024, entered the Universal stage when continental documents were submitted to Rome this past March. Those insights contributed toward drafting the Instrumentum Laboris, the working instrument or document that will be used during the Plenary Session of the Synod in Rome this coming October. The various stages of the synod are explained online, synod.va.

The Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, was represented during the Continental Stage of the Synod on Synodality by Archbishop Broglio, two priests, and several lay people. The AMS delegates had participated in synodal conversations previously in their local military communities. In December and January, they joined the 931 lay women, lay men, deacons, priests, women religious, and non-ordained men religious from Canada and the United States, participating in 147 small group listening circles. Several insights from AMS delegates were included in the North American final document.

The Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops and the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops organized the process for virtual gatherings. The task was large, but the process was designed well and afforded moments for prayer, silence, listening, and sharing. Each of those moments allowed delegates to pay attention to the promptings of the Holy Spirit. What was shared and heard during the North American Continental Stage “was that by our common baptism, we are each called by God and gifted by God with dignity. This common baptism places us in communion with Christ and one another (For a Synodal Church: Communion, Participation, and Mission, North American Final Document for the Continental Stage of the 2021-2024 Synod.)

Identified themes related to co-responsibility, women, youth/young people, and formation led to recommendations for cultivating trust and credibility, greater inclusivity, the necessity to continue listening, along with the desire for more formation in synodality. These highlighted needs hope to cultivate deeper bonds of communion with the Church that will provide a stimulus

for evangelization and mission. There were also specific reflections from the 146 bishops in North America that shared their experiences and insights related to the synodal process. The principal themes that emerged from the North American Continental Assembly proposed for further consideration at the Synodal Assembly include:

• Integration of synodal consultation in the local Church to include formation both in synodality and in the spirituality of discernment.

• The challenge of welcoming those who feel excluded from participationin the life of the Church in a manner that is authentic and faithful to the Gospel and the Catholic faith weighs heavily on the hearts of our people.

• Co-responsibility.

• Addressing the unity and communion of the Church in the midst of various kinds of polarization and division.

•

A Church that goes out to the peripheries.

While the continental stage has concluded and preparations for the universal stage are under way, the opportunity to gather at the local level remains. Visit the AMS website to read the documents, discover resources to continue implementing local synod listening processes, and discern together what it means to cultivate synodality. Finally, keep the synod process in your prayers as Archbishop Broglio, along with his fellow bishops and lay leaders prepare to gather in Rome, October 2023 and 2024. The Synod prayer is a good starting place encouraging all of us to remain open to the guidance of the Holy Spirit.

We stand before You, Holy Spirit, as we gather together in Your name. With You alone to guide us, make Yourself at home in our hearts; Teach us the way we must go and how we are to pursue it. We are weak and sinful; do not let us promote disorder. Do not let ignorance lead us down the wrong path nor partiality influence our actions. Let us find in You our unity so that we may journey together to eternal life and not stray from the way of truth and what is right. All this we ask of You, who are at work in every place and time, in the communion of the Father and the Son, forever and ever. Amen. V

https://www.milarch.org/resource/synod-on-synodality

Archbishop Timothy Broglio Appoints New Vicar General and Moderator of the Curia

BY TAYLOR HENRY

MONSIGNORANTHONY FRONTIERO

As a sign of continual pastoral concern for those entrusted to the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA(AMS), ArchbishopTimothy P. Broglioannounced on 15 April that MonsignorJeffrey Laible, the current Vicar General and Moderator of the Curia, has agreed to serve the faithful atMaxwell Air Force Base.

To serve as the new Vicar General and Moderator of the Curia, Archbishop Broglio has appointed the Reverend MonsignorAnthony Frontiero, S.T.D. (seecurriculum vitae), currently the Pastor ofSt. Matthew Parishin Windham, New Hampshire. The new Vicar General assumed his responsibilities on 1 July 2023.

Archbishop Broglio commented on the changing of the guard:

“I am very grateful to Monsignor Laible for his years of service in the Office of Vicar General and Moderator of the Curia and extremely pleased that he will be ministering to the Catholic community at Maxwell Air Force Base, AL. He has a true pastor’s heart and will reach out to the various categories of people who find Maxwell a temporary or more permanent home. I am excited to know that he hopes to lead the Catholics there.

“At the same time, I thank Father Harbour for his long years of service, first as an Airman, then an active-duty chaplain, and finally as the GS priest at Maxwell. He is fine example of faithful service.

“Finally, I am excited to benefit from Monsignor Frontiero’s vast experience and know that he will bring many talents to the Office of Vicar General and Moderator of the Curia. Throughout his ministry he has worn a variety of hats, and I am sure that he will serve the AMS well in these important responsibilities in a global archdiocese.

“It is propitious to thank my brother bishops, the Most ReverendLouis Tylka, Bishop of Peoria; the Most ReverendThomas Rodi, Archbishop of Mobile; and the Most ReverendPeter Libasci, Bishop of Manchester, for their willingness to release these fine priests for ministry in the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA.In a time of great shortage, these generous prelates have shared with the AMS in our need.”

continued on page 34

Looking back on your tenure as Vicar General of the AMS, what were your biggest accomplishments and source of satisfaction?

I would say my biggest source of satisfaction was assisting the priests out in the field. That, and working with the staff here at the AMS. It's been an incredible experience and so I am most grateful for this opportunity to serve as the Vicar General and Moderator of the AMS Curia. I hope, in some way, I have been able to make a positive difference in the time that I have been here.

Q Q

A A A

What were your biggest challenges?

I came with a lot of military and civilian pastoral experience, but I have never worked in diocesan administration, let alone a global archdiocese. I would say the biggest challenge was learning the inner-workings of a global archdiocese. The AMS is a very complex mission because it is not just one branch of the service — I understood Air Force chaplaincy -but in the AMS all the branches of the Armed Forces and Department of Veterans Affairs are represented. One of the biggest challenges that I faced was how best to provide guidance and serve the AMS in the most effective way I could.

How do you feel about your upcoming Maxwell Air Force Base assignment?

I'm excited about going to Maxwell AFB. The Air Force Chaplain Corps College is located at Maxwell AFB, and it is also the home of Air University. I began my service as a chaplain at Maxwell AFB -- as a chaplain candidate in 1985 -- that tells you how long I have been around.I attended most of the Air Force chaplain courses at Maxwell AFB, except for a short period of time when the Armed Forces chaplain schools were

EXIT INTERVIEW WITH MSGR. JEFFREY LAIBLE

Q Q

A A

co-located at Fort Jackson in Columbia, South Carolina. Maxwell AFB is also home to Air University, and I completed three Professional Military Education requirements (Squadron Officer School, Air Command and Staff, and Air War College) during my military service. In some respects going to Maxwell AFB is like going “home” for me, so I am really very much looking forward to this assignment. And of course, it will be pastoral ministry, working at the base chapel where I will be able to serve our service members, their families, and those who attend Air University. This will be a great opportunity.

When Archbishop Broglio announced your new assignment, he said you have a “pastor’s heart.” What does it mean to have a pastor’s heart?

Having a Pastor’s heart means helping others come to know the Lord, Jesus. To be a visible reminder of the Holy:that is the call and duty of a Pastor. To help people experience the presence of God, where they are at, based on the challenges and the blessings they have in their life and to assist them – especially through the reception of the Sacraments – to know God’s love.

Any parting thoughts for the AMS faithful—chaplains, clergy, and staff?

My service and ministry at the AMS has been an incredibly wonderful and faith-enriching experience. I’m grateful to Archbishop Broglio, who placed his trust and confidence in me a few years ago and allowed me to assist with the important mission of the AMS. I'll still be a part of the AMS as I move to Maxwell AFB but in a different capacity. My sincere thanks to the AMS chaplains, clergy, AMS Curia, staff, and all those who support the AMS through their generous donations and prayers. All will remain in my daily prayers, especially at Mass.

FRANCISCANS RETURN to Walter Reed National Military Medical Center after Resolution of Contract Issue

BY TAYLOR HENRY

BROTHER DAVID W. SCHLATTER, OFM, SPEAKS AT 15TH ANNUAL BLESSING OF THE DOGS AT WALTER REED NATIONAL MILITARY MEDICAL CENTER ON 5 OCTOBER 2021. PHOTO BY HARVEY DUZE, WRNMMC COMMAND COMMUNICATIONS.

ARTICLE ON PAGE 38

In late spring, the Franciscan priests and friars of Holy Name College Friary of Silver Spring, MD., returned to their ministry at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, resuming pastoral service to patients after a tenweek interruption from early April through mid-June due to a now-resolved contract issue.

On 15 June, His Excellency, the Most Reverend Timothy P. Broglio, Archbishop for the Military Services, USA, announced the U.S. Defense Health Agency (DHA) had finally awarded a new five-year contract, renewable annually, to the Franciscans. They had served as chaplains at the hospital for nearly 20 years before their contract expired on 31 March and was awarded to a secular defense contractor, Mack Global LLC of Mechanicsville, VA, without the means to provide Catholic clergy.

The timing was awkward. During Holy Week on 4 April, Walter Reed issued Holy Name College a cease-and-desist order directing the Franciscans to refrain from providing further pastoral service. The move prompted Archbishop Broglio to call it an encroachment on service members’ First Amendment Right to the Free Exercise of Religion.

In a 7 April statement, Archbishop Broglio said: “It is incomprehensible that essential pastoral care is taken away from the sick and the aged when it was so readily available. This is a classic case where the adage ‘if it is not broken, do not fix it’ applies. I fear that giving a contract to the lowest bidder overlooked the fact that the bidder cannot provide the necessary service. I earnestly hope that this disdain for the sick will be remedied at once and their First Amendment rights will be respected.”

Confronting these concerns, the DHA reopened bidding in May and on 8 June awarded the Franciscans a new contract. The Franciscans returned to Walter Reed on Tuesday, 11 June, once again providing the same service as before with a team of five friars taking turns on-site six days a week to minister to those hospitalized.

Archbishop Broglio expressed his gratitude to the U.S. Army Chief of Chaplains for his role in resolving the controversy. Archbishop Broglio said:

“I am very grateful to the Army Chief of Chaplains, Chaplain Thomas L. Solhjem, MG, USA, for his personal intervention and interest in resolving the question of Catholic pastoral care at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. He moved quickly to assure the presence of additional Catholic priests from the Army Reserves as soon as the contract with the Franciscan Friars ended. He also made certain that the needs of Catholics were addressed in the renegotiation of the contract. Of course, it is a source of great joy that the Franciscans have returned to the Medical Center and care for patients and staff there.”

Walter Reed National Military Medical Center is one of many Medical Centers within the Department of Defense and the DHA whose pastoral care lies within the ecclesiastical jurisdiction of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, the only Catholic authority for endorsing and granting faculties to Catholic priests and chaplains to serve in the U.S. Military and Department of Veterans Affairs. V

Memorial Mass Draws Hundreds to Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception

BY TAYLOR HENRY

Nearly 1,000 Catholics gathered in theGreat Upper Churchof theBasilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conceptionon Sunday, 21 May, for a 4:30 p.m. Mass to honor the men and women who have served in the United States Armed Forces. The29th Annual Memorial Massof theArchdiocese for the Military Services, USA(AMS), was attended by activeduty service members, veterans, and family members, including Gold Star Families.

ArchbishopTimothy P. Broglionoted, “we gather to pray for the eternal rest of those fallen in war and those who served, returned to a routine, and then died of old age or infirmity…. in this perfect prayer we also remember in a special way the priests who served the military or the VA or the foreign service and have been called back to the Father’s house. Ours is the land of the free because the brave have made their home here but have never hesitated to leave what is comfortable and endanger themselves to ensure that freedom.”

The Mass began with the usual opening procession, after which aKnights of Columbuscolor guard posted the colors, and the Basilica choir led the congregation in the National Anthem. Archbishop Broglio implored those gathered to live out the truth of their faith “to announce it and fulfill the mission the Lord gives us: evangelize, baptize, and move forward with Him to eternal life at the end of our earthly pilgrimage.” His Excellency proclaimed, “There is no reason to fear! Christ is with us always….”

“War in Ukraine, the collapse of Sudan, terrorism in West Africa, the plight of Haiti, mass shootings in our own country, constraint to fund the end of pre-born life in our VA facilities or forcing military commanders to fund travel and time off for the same purpose, the frequent inability of leaders to work together for the common good, and a host of other concerns dominate the news. How do we proclaim the truth in these situations?

“We find ways to proclaim the truth in its entirety. Jesus says it clearly in the Gospel: ‘teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you.’ Jesus Christ is Lord, and we are His ‘mail carriers, not His editors.’ (Peter Kreeft inFood for the Soul A, p. 367.) The challenge has always been to proclaim the truth in a way that the people of any given time can understand it. We do that in our catechetical efforts, our presence in social communication, the activity of the Holy See in favor of peace, outreach to the poor and migrants in our country through Catholic Charities, and outside our borders with Catholic Relief Services.”

The Memorial Mass concluded with the sounding ofTaps. EWTNtelevised the Mass in its entirety across the United States and Canada a week later on Memorial Day. V

Catholic U.S. Military Couples Gather on Guam for Marriage Enrichment Retreat

BY TAYLOR HENRY

Twenty-six Catholic couples based at U.S. Military installations onGuamspent part of the weekend of 19-20 May onTumon Bayfor aMarriage

Enrichment Retreatsponsored by theArchdiocese for the Military Services, USA(AMS). The twoday retreat took place at the Hilton Guam Resort and Spa, about a fiveminute drive from Antonio B. Won Pat International Airport. The time of reflection was facilitated by Mark Moitoza, Th.D., D. Min., AMS Vice-Chancellor for Evangelization. FathersGuy Kagere, Ch, Capt, USAF, andDaniel J. Swartz, CHC (LT), USN, were on hand and led the couples in prayer.

The couples came from their assigned duty stations atAndersen Air Force Base(AFB) andNaval Base Guam. Their ranks included Soldiers, Marines, Sailors, and Airmen. This was the seventhMarriage Enrichment Retreatthe AMS has sponsored for Catholic military couples over the past five years, but unlike previous retreats, which were each held over three days, the one on Guam was shortened to two days to accommodate the tight work schedules of participating servicemen and women on the217-square-mile island.

The couples spent the two days in prayer, group sessions, and dialogue, using theREFOCCUS Marriage

Enrichment Inventory, a program developed byFOCCUS, Inc. USA, of theArchdiocese of Omaha. FOCCUS stands for “Facilitate Open Couple Communication Understanding and Study.” Using short presentations in theREFOCCUS inventory toolas a guide, the couples explored topics such as marriage as a process, intimacy, compatibility, communication, and commitment.

Dr. Moitoza said: “Catholic couples assigned to Guam find a beautiful island and culture. At the same time, active-duty spouses travel frequently to support the military mission, and that can create enhanced experiences of isolation. The marriage enrichment retreat permitted a safe space apart from those daily stresses. Husbands and wives rediscovered how to reflect upon meaningful questions, how to listen to one another, and how to enliven their relationships through sharing and prayer.”

Father Kagere noted that spiritually healthy marriages build spiritually healthy families. “Since the family

is the foundation of society,” he said, “authentic catholic families’ education and raising of children in line with gospel values and Church teaching is beneficial to the community and the nation at large.”

The AMSOffice of Evangelization organizes these retreats under the direction of His Excellency, the Most ReverendTimothy P. Broglio, Archbishop for the Military Services, USA. In a sign of the importance he places on the vocation of marriage, particularly within the transient military lifestyle, Archbishop Broglio haswrittenon the topic and participated in all six previous AMS Marriage Enrichment Retreats, which were held everywhere from Alhambra, CA to Assisi in Italy and Waldfischbach-Burgalben, Germany.

“Marriage is indeed a union most sacred and serious,” Archbishop Broglio wrote in a 2010 article. “It is a wonderful gift to the Church and to society. Like all precious gifts it must be cared for, supported, and sustained.” V

In the Presence of Christ

BY JOSÉ AMAYA

Recall a moment when you caught a word of wisdom of the Catholic faith spoken by a witness of Christ or a Catholic faith practice that deepened your understanding. When I was a young adult, my dad and I were passing by a Catholic church. My dad took off his hat and looking intently towards the church made the sign of the cross. “Why did you do that?” - I asked. My dad reverenced the real presence of Jesus Christ in the Holy Eucharist reserved in the Tabernacle. Recently, I was driving past a church with my nephew and as I made the sign of the Cross. My nephew asked “Why?”

The three-year National Eucharistic Revival launched in June 2022 on the Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ invites us to journey together in the discovery of the real presence of Jesus Christ. The themes for last year’s Catechist Convocation, Advent and Lenten retreats invited catechists to strengthen their knowledge and understanding of the real presence of Jesus Christ in the Eucharist and the Blessed Sacrament. The Diocesan Revival will give way to the Parish Revival (11 June 2023 to 17 July 2024). Do Catholics realize that we work, pass by, and live in the presence of Jesus Christ? What signs and symbols do we use to reverence the real presence when passing by a Catholic church?

The Revival invites Catholics to recognize this real presence of Christ in the Holy Eucharist at Mass and in all tabernacles of the world, to provide catechesis that leads the disciple to a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ in the Church and to bring Christ into the day-to-day life of Christians bearing witness in word and deed. In the year of the parish/chapel revival, the catechist and parents ought to make a concerted effort to proclaim and teach the real presence of Jesus Christ through the lenses of the five tasks of catechesis inspired by the way Jesus formed his disciples: leading them to a knowledge of the faith; initiating into the celebration of the mystery; forming for life in Christ; teaching them to pray; and introducing to community life (Directory for Catechesis, 79-89).

The AMS Forming Disciples for the New Evangelization provides a road map to lead the disciple to know the faith, be initiated into the celebration of the mystery, be formed for life in Christ, be taught to pray, and be introduced to community life. Three practical things to do: 1) Teach and exemplify that the Eucharist is the source and summit of a Christian life; 2) invite parents to go to Mass with their children, visit the Blessed Sacrament to pray, and teach them to make the sign of the cross; 3) Invest in faith formation by taking a course on the Creed, sacraments, Scripture, morality or prayer (Directory for Catechesis, 77). Reinforce these efforts by placing the AMS Family Witness to Christ provided by “CatholicBrain” in the hands of families.

https://amsfamilywitness.catholicbrain.com/login

Let us respond to the 2023 Catechetical Sunday (17 September) invitation with open hearts: Come to me all you who labor and are burdened. Faith is more caught than taught. See you in the Eucharist! V

THE HARVEST CONTINUES...

NAME: Sam McPeak

DIOCESE: Richmond, VA

ARMED FORCES BRANCH: Army

RANK: 2LT

WHAT YEAR ARE YOU IN SEMINARY: Philosophy II

EDUCATION/DEGREES: University of Cincinnati, CollegeConservatory of Music: Bachelor of Music in Music Education and Clarinet Performance.

Saint Meinrad Seminary and School of Theology: Master of Arts in Catholic Philosophical Studies.

HIGH SCHOOL: Matoaca HS 17700 Longhouse Ln. Chesterfield, VA

HOBBIES: Golf, Soccer, Swimming

WHEN WAS THE FIRST TIME YOU THOUGHT YOU MIGHT HAVE A VOCATION TO THE PRIESTHOOD?

About 6 months a er my con rmation – about halfway through my freshman year of high school.

WHO OR WHAT EVENTS INFLUENCED YOUR DISCERNMENT JOURNEY?

My con rmation by Bishop Higgins who during his homily pointed to me and asked me if I wanted to be a priest – that got the Holy Spirit working. Also, having Father Matt Pawlikowski as my sponsor at West Point, his example shaped the way I lived the rest of my life, making everything geared toward entering seminary and becoming an Army chaplain.

WHAT WOULD PEOPLE BE SURPRISED TO KNOW ABOUT YOU?

I am a classically trained singer, and I am half Ecuadorian.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SCRIPTURE PASSAGE, WHY?

Isaiah 6:8 – Isaiah’s response to the Lord reminds me of why I have answered the call to the priesthood and chaplaincy.

HOW DID YOU COME TO KNOW JESUS CHRIST PERSONALLY?

In moments of su ering. Every hardship I have overcome is due to Christ’s aid and grace. He has always been my best friend and strongest pillar during such times.

WHAT SPIRITUAL EVENTS OR ACTIVITIES HELPED YOU DEVELOP AND SHARE YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH CHRIST AND HIS CHURCH?

e discovery of the Tridentine Rite of the Mass revealed to me the pinnacle of beauty and reverence in our faith. It drew me closer into the church and ultimately is why I nally committed to entering seminary.

WHAT SAINTS OR CHURCH LEADERS INSPIRED YOUR DISCERNMENT JOURNEY?

St. Philip Neri, Servant of God Emil Kapaun, and St. Peter Damian.

St. Jude has also been a powerful saint in my life. Jude is both my middle name and my Con rmation name, and I have turned to St. Jude in times when I have desperately needed the virtue of hope.

WHAT WAS YOUR BACKGROUND BEFORE APPLYING TO BE A SEMINARIAN?

My parents are career Army ordnance o cers, so I grew up in the Army. I attended West Point as a member of the class of 2020 for a time before transferring to the University of Richmond where I did Army ROTC. Immediately before entering seminary, I studied for a master’s in European History at George Mason University.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SPIRITUAL BOOK?

Imitation of Christ by omas à Kempis

WHO ARE YOUR HEROES OR PEOPLE YOU SIGNIFICANTLY ADMIRE?

My parents, my sister, my two grandfathers, my pastor Father Karl Marsolle FSSP, and Father Matt Pawlikowski.

HOW WOULD YOU CHARACTERIZE YOUR PRAYER LIFE? WHAT COMPRISES YOUR DAILY PRAYER? DO YOU PARTICIPATE IN THE LITURGICAL LIFE OF THE CHURCH? WHEN, WHERE, HOW?

We are blessed to have daily Mass at the seminary, community praying of the breviary, and various holy hours. I also pray the rosary daily and make use of frequent reception of the Eucharist and confession.

Annual Benefit

Sponsorship:

Year-End Donation Opportunity

BY MARY LAVIN

The Annual Benefit has become an increasingly significant and vital source of financial support for the Archdiocese. Sponsorships provide the largest percent of revenue, each a gift of commitment to the mission and hope for the future by building engagement and offsetting costs. Net revenue generated by the combination of sponsorships, tickets, and donations ultimately helps facilitate the pastoral ministry and outreach to Catholic military families and veterans by AMS clergy and supports all initiatives and services.

In 2022, the Annual Benefit sold out for the first time, two weeks in advance of the registration deadline. It was an engaging evening held at the Saint John Paul II National Shrine in Washington, D.C., with the celebration of the Eucharist, a cocktail reception, and capacity seating at the largest sit-down dinner ever held at the Shrine. Guests attended from as far away as Florida, Missouri, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Texas. More states were represented by those who participated in spirit and prayer by submitting intentions to be remembered at the altar. The event remains the largest annual gathering of AMS friends and benefactors, serves as an annual reunion for an increasing number of people, and is the largest fundraising event for the Archdiocese.

Looking ahead, the 15th Annual Benefit will be held at the Saint John Paul II National Shrine on Saturday, 18 November 2023. Individual tickets will be $300 per person ($150 for active-duty and those 35 years of age or younger). Sponsorship levels will start at $1,500, each to include a number of tickets to be provided and a listing in the event program. Sponsorships may also be provided as a straight donation. A program listing may be in the name of a company, organization, or individual, or as a memorial or

honor tribute for an active-duty service member, chaplain, or loved one. Prayer Sponsors will be those who make a donation of $1-$1,499 (no listing in the program).

Sponsorships and donations may be offered as a check in the mail, a grant from a donor-advised fund (donation only, no tickets), a gift of stock, a distribution from an Individual Retirement Account, or a credit card gift made online or over the phone. If not able to attend, consider participating with a sponsorship or donation as an early opportunity to make a year-end gift and ensure timely receipt for tax purposes.

The days of last minute registrations for the Annual Benefit are likely now a thing of the past. If you are planning to attend this year, be sure to register early. Invitations are expected to mail the last week of August with online registration available 1 September. For additional information about sponsorship opportunities, or to make sure you receive an invitation, visit www.milarch.org/annual-benefit or call the Advancement Office at (202) 719-3622.

Save the Dates

18-22 September 2023

Drury Plaza Hotel • San Antonio Riverwalk San Antonio, TX Fall

28

Pathway of Honor

Show your support for service members, veterans, chaplains, military families, and all who have served or continue to serve by reserving a commemorative brick today. Your brick will join hundreds of others lining the pathways of the Edwin Cardinal O’Brien Pastoral Center in Washington, D.C.

A suggested donation of $150 will ensure that the brick you order, in memory of your loved one, will be placed in the “Pathway of Honor”.

To order a brick, visit

https://www.milarch.org/bricks/ You can donate online or print a donation form.

If you have any questions, please contact the Advancement Office at: (202) 719-3622 or support@milarch.org

P.O. Box 4469 Washington, D.C. 20017-0469

“Serving Those Who Serve”

“May the Lord fill your hearts with His presence and give you serenity in these ever-challenging days. We continue to support one another in prayer.”

–Archbishop Timothy P. Broglio