Salute - Christmas 2019

CHRISTMAS 2018

THE MAGAZINE OF THE ARCHDIOCESE FOR THE MILITARY SERVICES, USA

“Madonna in the

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Dear Friends of the Archdiocese for the Military Services,

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hristmas is in the air. We begin the holy season of Advent on the first Sunday of December this year and we reflect on the waiting of the Chosen People and our association in that longing, but with joy, because we know that Christ has indeed come to us.

The season is especially significant for our deployed men and women. They are far from home, the comfort of family, friends, and holiday traditions. We assure them of our prayerful support.

I, also, plan to visit those in Korea and Guam during the month of December. Since I returned to the States in 2008, I have never spent Christmas Day or the days before and after on our shores! My last USA Christmas was in 1996!

Please enjoy the following pages of our Christmas issue. You will learn about the clergy days of spiritual renewal in Asia and Europe, activities among the young adults, expectations for World Youth Day, and the challenges and blessings of ministry among the VA population.

I thank you for making possible so much of what you will read in the following pages. We are blessed as an archdiocese to have broad support and truly interested benefactors.

May your Christmas time be rich in blessings. May you be strengthened by your faith in the birth of the Son of God and may you be surrounded by loved ones and special traditions.

Coupled with my Christmas good wishes, I pray that 2019 will be a year of peace, good health, and civility in our Nation and beyond.

Merry Christmas and a happy New Year.

Sincerely in Christ,

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The Most Reverend Timothy P. Broglio Archbishop

THE MAGAZINE OF THE ARCHDIOCESE FOR THE MILITARY SERVICES, USA

VOLUME 12 NUMBER 4 CHRISTMAS 2018

TA B L E o f C O N T E N T S

4 To Everything There is a Season, and a Time

to Every Purpose …

Archbishop Timothy P. Broglio 12 The Mass of Obligation or The Mass of Opportunity?

Bishop F. Richard Spencer 16 The Compassionate Heart of a Veterans Affairs

Chaplain, Father Karl Lindblad Cliff Dals, The Senior Gazette 24 MCCW European Retreat Elizabeth Tomlin 26 The Harvest Continues Meet Brother Matthew Tomey, MIC 28 Archdiocese Holds Day of Recollection for

Priests and Chaplains...

Taylor Henry 30 AMS Receives the Patrician Award from St.

Patrick’s Seminary, in Menlo Park, CA. Taylor Henry 38 Pilgrimage for the Sea Services Draws

Hundreds to Seton Shrine Taylor Henry 40 Reach More Reaches the Peripheries Casey Bustamante

COVER: RAPHAEL’S THE MADONNA OF THE CHAIR, CIRCA 1513-1514, PAINTED A SHORT TIME BEFORE HIS DEATH AGED ONLY 37, IS A PAINTING OF THE HIGH ITALIAN RENAISSANCE.

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

CHRISTMAS 2018

THE MAGAZINE OF THE ARCHDIOCESE FOR THE MILITARY SERVICES, USA

ADDRESS CHANGES AND NEW SUBSCRIPTIONS: Please send title, name, address and phone number to: support@milarch.org call 202.719.3600 or write: Advancement Office, Archdiocese for the

“Madonna

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

in the

Feedback, letters to the editor: editor@milarch.org | Website: www.milarch.org

CHRISTMAS 2018

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BY: ARCHBISHOP TIMOTHY P. BROGLIO

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ARCHBISHOP AT THE CLOSING MASS FOR THE MILITARY COUNCIL OF CATHOLIC WOMEN RETREAT AT ROLDUC ABBEY IN THE NETHERLANDS.

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leven years ago on 2 October 2007 then Archbishop Filoni asked me to assume responsibility of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA. To say that I was surprised would be an understatement. So many things changed in my life, but the best part was the introduction to a wonderful group of people: men and women in uniform, their families, veterans, and the unforgettable students at the Nation’s military academies.

Learning the challenges of offering effective pastoral ministry to them has been an education, but the rewards are many!

These articles for Salute usually recount the miles traveled to visit the faithful and this installment will not be lacking. Just as most Shepherds are proud of their flock, it is my hope that you will appreciate how wonderful these men, women, and children are.

Last Labor Day weekend, the majority of the co-sponsored seminarians made it to Washington, D.C., for the AMS gathering.

Events were planned, conversations were enjoyed, but the time together and the ARCHBISHOP TIMOTHY P. BROGLIO ADDRESSING THE LABOR DAY GATHERING OF CO-SPONSORED SEMINARIANS opportunities to be better AT THE EDWIN CARDINAL O’BRIEN PASTORAL CENTER. acquainted were priceless.

Most of the priests and the great Knights of Columbus agreed that the AMS is truly blessed with excellent seminarians who will serve the men and women in the armed forces generously, creatively, and lovingly. (continued on page 6) CHRISTMAS 2018

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Almost immediately I took up the pilgrim’s staff and began to visit some of the installations where the Vicar for the Eastern Region would normally frequent. I mentioned some of them in my article for the fall issue.

The faculty, staff, and seminarians at the Center for Pastoral Leadership of the Diocese of Cleveland held the annual Mass and reception to support the ministry of the AMS. It allowed me an opportunity to see many old friends, make some new ones, and raise awareness about the ministry of the AMS. On Sunday, I was able to accept the invitation of Father Eric Orzech and celebrate Mass in the historic St. Stanislaus Church. It is truly a splendid Gothic structure on the East Side of Cleveland.

Before heading toward New Jersey, I took in the second match of the Vianney Cup, a treasure for seminarians from Mount St. Mary’s, St. Mary’s in Baltimore, Theological College of Catholic University, and St. Charles Borromeo Seminary in Philadelphia. Even without star player and co-sponsored seminarian Peter St. George, the Mount prevailed and brought home the cup.

My time at McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst included a confirmation Mass.

ARCHBISHOP TIMOTHY P. BROGLIO ATTENDING THE RECEPTION HELD AT THE CENTER FOR PASTORAL LEADERSHIP OF THE DIOCESE OF CLEVELAND.

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There was also a town-hall meeting to talk about the state of the AMS, future plans, concerns, and the ever-present sad news about clerical abuse and infidelity. I was deeply touched when the community asked if they could pray for me. I felt strengthened and renewed by the powerful support of their prayers. It is that conviction and prayerfulness that have sustained the ordained ministry for centuries. We must not let them down.

Father Guy Kagere was there for the activities of Sunday, but then had to return to his exercise in the field. We had great fun in our private conversations, because we spoke French throughout. It was good practice for me and hopefully not too penitential for him.

The next day included some office calls with the commanders, where I was accompanied by Air National Guard Chaplain, Father Francis Rella. Our conversations about mission, the shortage of priests, the state of the military, and the peculiarities of that particular installation quickly filled the time.

I drove from there to Dover Air Force Base and, because the Catholic priest is deployed, was guided by a Protestant chaplain. The visit was complete and the community is in good hands. Father David Kruse (Baltimore), assigned to the Mortuary Affairs Unit, joined me for confirmation and dinner. It was good to see him again.

The next activity took me to the West Coast where my host was Archbishop Salvatore Cordileone. He had invited me to preach at the Red Mass for the Archdiocese of San Francisco. It was held in the beautiful Church of Saints Peter and Paul, staffed by the Salesian Fathers. The sojourn continued with a benefit for St. Patrick’s Seminary in Menlo Park, which has hosted the AMS spring discernment retreat for the last ten years. (continued on page 8) CHRISTMAS 2018

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To Every Thing‌

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The Seminary honored me with their Patrician Award (see page 30) and I now have a beautiful poly-chrome wooden statute of St. Patrick in my office. A suitable prominent place for this image is being sought.

The weekend concluded with a very brief pastoral visit to Travis Air Force Base. I celebrated the two Sunday Masses and confirmation. There was also a fine dinner with the Catholic community in addition to some time with the various groups who support the same community. After dinner I drove back to the San Francisco Airport for a red-eye flight so as to return to Washington DC. By the way, that flight involved a change of planes in Cleveland. I always find it strange to pass through my home-town without making a stop.

However, there was soon an opportunity to return to Ohio, albeit the northwest corner. Long-time friend and Bishop of Toledo in America, as it is called in international circles, the Most Reverend Daniel E. Thomas, invited me to preside and preach both at the Red Mass and the following day at the patronal Feast of the Diocese, Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary. Both events were held in the spectacular Cathedral of the Most Holy Rosary in Toledo.

It is probably superfluous to write that the presence of the Archbishop for the Military Services, USA, at a feast established to commemorate the victory of the Christian forces at Lepanto in 1571 was very appropriate. More appropriate indeed was praying the Rosary before Mass with an Air Force family assigned to the local Reserve installation.

During that moving prayer with a few young children and their parents I was reminded of May and October nights growing up when as a family we would kneel on the living room floor and pray the Rosary. Life was simpler then.

From Toledo I headed to Phoenix to participate in the Canon Law Society of America’s annual convention. As always, the time was wellspent, the keynote addresses interesting, and the interchanges with scholars and old friends very pleasant. AMS Vicar General and Moderator of the

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Curia, Msgr. John J.M. Foster, was the outgoing president of the society and it was good to accompany him. I was also charged with a presentation on the Bishop as Legislator.

Returning to Washington on another red-eye flight, I enjoyed a few days in the office, helped the Navy celebrate its birthday, and helped the Bishop of Arlington with a few confirmations. All of those events allowed me to sleep in my own bed, drive the vehicle regularly assigned to me, and enjoy the beauty of the Nation’s capital in the autumn.

The stay in D.C., was short-lived. The new Auxiliary Bishop of Hartford, the Most Reverend Juan Miguel Betancourt, invited me to be one of his co-consecrators and I eagerly accepted. I first met the new auxiliary bishop in Hatillo, Puerto Rico when I was assigned as the Apostolic Delegate there. Circumstances allowed us to stay in touch, but I was surprised to be asked to serve as one of his principal co-consecrators.

From that celebration I sped to the Netherlands to join the Military Council of Catholic Women for their annual retreat. While there I was privileged to witness the marriage of an Air Force couple in Breisach am Rhein and then went down to Roma for the annual presentation of the military chaplaincy to the first-year seminarians of the North American College, the U.S. national seminary in Rome.

In addition to my joy at returning to the city where I spent 19 years of my life, the occasion was also enriched by the opportunity to spend some time with and celebrate the Eucharist with our seminarians, deacon, and priest who reside and study there. At the end of October I also visited the co-sponsored seminarians at Mount St. Mary’s in Emmitsburg, Md. Those two visits confirmed the blessing that the AMS has in its future chaplains. Join me in thanking Almighty God for them and in encouraging them to persevere. (continued on page 10) CHRISTMAS 2018

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ARCHBISHOP TIMOTHY P. BROGLIO ADDRESSES THE UNITED STATES CONFERENCE OF CATHOLIC BISHOPS. PHOTO CREDIT: BOB ROLLER | CATHOLIC NEWS SERVICE

The last weekend in October coincided with the investiture of two young military officers in the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem. The work of the Order to support Christians in the Holy Land is vital for the future of the Church. The AMS is doing her part to enrich the Order with younger members.

Those October days concluded with pastoral visits to Aberdeen Proving Ground and the Carlisle Barracks. Time at military installations is time well-spent. The welcome, conversation, and celebration of confirmation always enriches me and gives me new vigor for the next endeavors. I am led to believe that such moments are also powerful for the communities assigned to my pastoral care.

All Saints Day found me both at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception and the National Shrine of St. John Paul

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II for Mass (at different times!). What a joy to be at the Eucharist in those centers of spirituality on a day that allows us to honor ordinary men and women who now dwell with Almighty God. The saints tell us that sanctity is within our reach. They encourage us!

The rest of November will be full. The General Assembly of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops will require us to consider structures to ensure the accountability of Bishops and good governance. The annual benefit promises to raise needed funds for the future and break records.

The final discernment retreat for 2018 and the second marriage enrichment retreat will round out my December. From those events I head to the Far East for solidarity visits on behalf of the U.S. Bishops and pastoral visits to our men, women, and families stationed in Korea and Guam.

Indeed the faithful who comprise the AMS are extraordinary people and I hope that you continue to enjoy reading about them. V

ARCHBISHOP TIMOTHY P. BROGLIO SPEAKING AT THE MASS FOR THE 10TH ANNUAL BENEFIT HELD AT THE JOHN PAUL II NATIONAL SHRINE IN WASHINGTON, D.C.

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T he M a s s o f O B L I G A T I O N o r T he M a s s o f O P P O R T UN I T Y ?

JAPAN OFFERS A JOYFUL & WARM WELCOME!

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ecently while visiting the U.S. Army Chapel at Camp Humphrey’s, Korea, on a Holy Day of Obligation, before Mass began I heard Father Paul Anthony Halladay challenge our presence and participation by posing a profound question: “Are you here to worship today because the Mass is of Obligation or are you here today because of the Mass of Opportunity?” I like that imagery of our chapels coming together for prayer. Attendance is always impressive with high numbers gathering because we “want to be there”. Our military chapels, especially in Eurasia, are our home away from home. It is always a thrill for me visit our Chapels and to witness the faith family in action! Truly, our folks attend “Mass of Opportunity” as we gather to celebrate the Mass.

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Meanwhile, back on the Confirmation faith journey with our military chapels, this past Fall I was able to share almost 30 days in the Japan AOR, which also includes the Island of Okinawa. I was able to visit 11 chapels and they all feed me quite well with their multiple banquets and receptions. These were very festive gatherings of the faithful along with the Confirmandi. One particular visit was at Yokosuka, under the pastoral leadership of Father Jason Burchell. There were over 90 persons attending the noon banquet and we had to take multiple pictures in order to include everyone. Left is the one picture with all of the women of the Chapel. I was blessed to be surrounded by so many beautiful folks!

In addition to the fall season and continuing into Advent, Christmas, and Lent, the AMS is sponsoring mini-retreats and days of recollection for our priest in Europe, Korea, and Japan. These mini-retreats for Europe and Asia regions are new initiatives that Archbishop Broglio has approved in order to help sustain and strengthen our clergy within our overseas military communities. No doubt, our priests are understaffed and hence are working 6-7 days per week to serve the multiple ministry needs of our Catholic families, and Archbishop stands ready to support these priests to be nourished in their spiritual lives as they so generously give to others.

Every other year, the Archbishop sponsors week-long convocations to enable priests to come together to be updated on policies and liturgical matters and to spend fraternal time renewing their Priesthood. These miniretreats, in the alternate years of the Convocations, will enable our men, through the generosity of our AMS donors, an opportunity to grow on their faith journey. Again, we are thankful for the Archbishop’s initiatives and for the financial support shared from within our faithful military communities supporting our priests. (continued on page 14) CHRISTMAS 2018

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T he M a s s o f O B L I G A T I O N . . .

continued from page 13

All events begin on a Sunday evening with Evening Prayer followed by a festive meal. Monday begins with Morning Prayer and two conference talks followed by Mass and lunch. The afternoon hours are dedicated to Holy Hour while the priests are offered the opportunities to receive the sacrament of reconciliation from visiting priests.

For Korea, 28/29 October 2018, Osan Air Base hosted all of the AMS priests serving in the Republic of South Korea. The program was coordinated by Chaplain (Major) Timothy Hirten and conducted at the Dragon Hill Lodge, Yongsan, Korea. The guest speaker was Father Daniel Kister, S. J. in service to the local Church in Korea.

For Europe, 02/03 December 2018, Ramstein Air Base hosted the event.

The AMS Dean for Europe, Very Reverend Redmond Raux, coordinated the Europe retreat events and was assisted by the local CWOCs to provide breakfast and lunch. The guest speaker was Father Steven Forster, retired British Army Colonel, having served three tours in Iraq and two tours in Afghanistan and currently ministers as the Parish Priest of the International Parishes in Germany.

Our next projected event is for Japan, 17/18 February 2019, and USAG Camp Zama will be the host. Father Anselmo Hernandez is coordinating the two day retreat which will be conducted at the Tokyo downtown Franciscan Center and at the New Sanno Hotel. The theme will be preparations for Lent and liturgical renewal.

Again, our humble thanks for our many financial donors who allow these priest renewal opportunities to take place. May this New Year be a year of blessings upon us all! V

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Save the Dates World Youth Day Panama 22-27 January 2019

The MCCW retreat dates for 2019: Pacific Region Feb 7-10 Western Retreat March 8-10 Northeast Region March 22-24 Central Region March 29-31

Spring Discernment Retreat 28 February - 3 March 2019 St. Patrick’s Seminary Menlo Park | California

24th Annual Memorial Mass

19 May 2019, Sunday, 4:30 p.m.

Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, Upper Church 400 Michigan Avenue Northeast Washington, D.C. 20017 Archbishop Broglio will be the principal celebrant and homilist

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THE COMPASSIONATE HEART OF A VETERANS AFFAIRS CHAPLAIN: FATHER KARL LINDBLAD

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f you are a veteran (or you know of a veteran) seeking a counselor whose experiences bridge the worlds of parish priest and military duty, you might be hard-pressed to find one as compassionate and knowledgeable as Father Karl-Albert Lindblad.

In August, I traveled to Castle Point to learn some of the thoughts of this 59-year-old man of God. Not surprisingly, he mentioned the most pressing issue about veterans, including those who served in our foreign wars and those who did not: “Getting them in the door is probably the hardest part. They have free will, and they’re not in the military anymore. They must choose to walk in. But once that happens, we can do wonderful things for them.

“To hear their stories---some have physical problems, drug issues, marital issues---the widest variety of difficulties, and joys, that one can hear about, probably wider issues than even some parish personalities,” he said. “For some of those who come in, I think they like to talk to

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an old Marine Corps chaplain.

That helps because I know their language. Besides what we offer here, I urge them to use veterans’ service organizations like VFW, Marine Corps League, DAV [Disabled American Vets]. These and others help them to apply for benefits [which they may never have known about].

“We have those with spiritual damage done to them, not just physical or emotional. The Warriorto-Soulmate Program of the VA addresses those concerns through c om mu n i c at i on s - e m ot i on a l and relationship skills for couples.”

[There are weekend retreats for couples from a Friday night into Sunday. Chaplains, social workers, psychologists, and nurses are on hand to guide the programs.] In this regard, he said, “I don’t solve problems. I bring people to others who can solve their problems…..I think many of our veterans say, ‘I trust the chaplains after my active service since they have a set-up at VA hospitals similar to the one I have

By Cliff Dais, Health and Fitness Columnist for The Senior Gazette 14 September 2018, Reprinted with permission

been used to,’ so they have a level of trust already established.”

As I listened to Father Lindblad, I thought about my many Castle Point experiences with my brother-in-law, John Homan, now 88 years old. For years after suffering from frostbite of the feet and nightmares relating to his duty with the First Marine Division in Korea’s Chosin Reservoir battle, no one guided him to the resources of Castle Point. Himself, a deacon of his church, he could have met with the VA chaplain who could have guided him to the help he so badly needed.

Only by chance did another Marine alert him to the spiritual and medical services, the prescription medications, the regular check-ups that are there for the asking.

It is surely part of the feeling of reluctance to go to government services that stems from the American public’s Vietnam Era treatment of returning vets. To this, Father Lindblad said, “I feel a responsibility to say to them, we are

FATHER KARL LINDBLAD

sorry the American people acted that way, and we’re going to rectify it.”

Also, “Chaplains do not distinguish between combat veterans and all the other categories of service. You served in some capacity and we want to take care of you for that reason.”

Father Lindblad made an important point about VA activity: “The VA is funded for those who use it, not despite them. When a vet comes through our doors, the government allots a certain amount of money; the more the system is used, the better the social services become….Too often I hear, ‘I’m a vet but I don’t want to take the space of (continued on page 18) CHRISTMAS 2018

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THE COMPASSIONATE HEART continued from page 17

another vet who needs services more than I do.’ Obviously, there is plenty of ‘space.’ Not using that space cuts the ‘space’ down.”

I thought it helpful to give the reader a capsule review of the man whose great faith in God and country drives every moment of his day. The following comes from documents provided ahead of the interview by the Public Affairs Office: Commissioned in the Chaplain Corps, US Navy, in 1984, his assignments included Marines (3rd Marine Division, Okinawa); Coast Guard (Yorktown, Va.); Merchant Marines (Kings Point); Submarine Development Squadron (Groton, Conn.); and other naval-oriented stations as chaplain.

He was the first active-duty chaplain on the scene following the collapse of the World Trade Center (whose interior he knew intimately when he was a messenger courier prior to his entering the priesthood), on 11 September 2001. He coordinated disaster relief, and requested the presence of the US Navy Hospital Ship “The Comfort” to come to New York.

In 2006, with the USS Nassau Battle Group, he was part of the first US naval operation in 200 years to capture pirates (twice) off Somalia.

He brought ministry to hijacked

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Muslim Indian crews and tended to wounded and deceased pirates of Muslim faith.

Chaplain Lindblad has served parishes in Orange, Rockland and Westchester, among others, and concurrently and atypically with those, acting as a certified firefighter in the community---the latter perhaps a direct result of his September 11 experience and suggesting the breadth of his worldview.

In spite of his military retirement, in 2012, he has maintained pastoral duties with military-oriented facilities at Castle Point, Wappingers Falls, and Montrose, Westchester county.

Finally, Chaplain Lindblad made this pledge: “If you feel as a veteran that there is some reason that you should NOT come here, I want you to call me personally. I am going to find a reason to make it possible for you to come see us.

You are an upstanding citizen of the United States. You defended our nation, and we need to defend you.”

Here are some ways to reach Father Lindblad: e-mail: karl.lindblad@va.gov or 914-737-4400 ext. 5453 or 3734

Father Kapaun Writes Home

BY FATHER AIDAN LOGAN, O.C.S.O., AMS DIRECTOR OF VOCATIONS

The Korean War is once again in the news, reminding us of the 36,000 Americans who gave their lives in that epic struggle. Among them was a Catholic priest and chaplain.

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ather Emil Joseph Kapaun, a priest of the Diocese of Wichita, Kansas, was ordained in 1940 and commissioned in the U.S. Army Chaplain Corps in 1944, serving in Burma and India. He returned to his home diocese in 1946 but returned to active-duty in 1948 and was sent to Japan the following year. In July of 1950, Father Kapaun was among the first troops to be sent to South Korea in response to the invasion by the Communist North. Â There he gained a reputation for bravery and ministering to the soldiers in the most extreme circumstances. On 2 November, in the thick of the Battle of Unsan, the 8th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division was (continued on page 20) CHRISTMAS 2018

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Father Kapaun...

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WRITING LETTERS HOME. PHOTO COURTESY: FATHER KAPAUN GUILD

overrun by the Chinese Army. Crisscrossing the battlefield to rescue soldiers and administer the sacraments, Father was taken as a prisoner. During seven months of extreme hardship he spent himself in the heroic service to his fellow prisoners. Singled out as a leader, his captors moved him to the camp “hospital’ where he died of neglect and starvation on 6 May 1951.

On 2 October 1950, Father Kapaun wrote to his bishop, the Most Reverend Mark Carroll, one of his last letters home. It reveals his priestly heart amid the horrors of war. He hopes the war will soon be over, little realizing that within a few days the Chinese assault would signal his final battle.

“Thank you very much for your kind letter sent last month. It took some time to reach us as we had been trapped by the Red (sic.) and could not get any mail or anything else. This was the fourth time we were trapped, the first time we had no fox hole to run to. With these high-powered shells exploding on all sides, one trembles and prays that none will land nearby. When a man is hit he screams for help or the others near him scream for him if he is unconscious.

The whole experience is nerve-racking.

“We have broken over the Red (sic.) lines and have advanced over a hundred miles. We just wonder if this war is nearly over.

“During this awful conflict I was impressed with the way most of the soldiers were prepared spiritually. I hope that all of them who lost their lives have found a merciful Judge.

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“I wish to thank you and all the good people who have been sending prayers heavenward for us in Korea. Something save us besides our efforts, for many of us are convinced that we are living on borrowed time.

“May our good Blessed Mother protect all during this month of the Holy Rosary.”

Father Kapaun was declared a "Servant of God" in 1993, the first step in the process leading to canonization. On 11 April 2013, CH (CPT) Emil Kapaun, USA, was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor by President Barack Obama.

The witness of Father Kapaun calls all of us to pray that generous young men will answer God’s call to the priesthood and military chaplaincy. V

GO TO WWW.FATHERKAPAUN.ORG FOR MORE INFORMATION ON FATHER KAPAUN AND THE CAUSE FOR HIS BEATIFICATION.

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PHOTO COURTESY OF: HTTPS:// WWW.DVIDSHUB.NET/IMAGE

FORCE MULTIPLIERS for Christ

BY MARY LAVIN

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first heard Catholic Military Chaplains described as Force Multipliers

by Colonel Robert F. Carpenter, USA (Retired), a long-time AMS friend and benefactor who designates his giving to the Vocations and CoSponsored Seminarian Programs. There were 8 co-sponsored seminarians when he made his first gift to the AMS; today there are 47 and counting.

Hoping his message will resonate with retired Catholic military men and women in particular, increasing awareness and support for this thriving and much needed program, Colonel Carpenter offered the following in his own words: “During your military career you have tried to give back as best you could, given the requirements of family and service. But now you are in a different position.

You have completed your military career and retired or you can see retirement on the horizon. You have well and faithfully served God and our Nation. You have begun your post military career

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or soon will. Your children have completed their education or just about, and the house is paid off or soon will be. Looking at your life you see just how much God has graced you with blessings beyond count. You may not have more time but you do have more money. And, you still think like a member of the military.

Members of the military retired and current know these seminarians are Force Multipliers, just as our advanced weapons are on the battlefield. These men will soon be priests, men who will spend their lives ministering to Christ’s flock. Their ministry will affect many thousands of lives bringing the word of Christ with its comfort and grace to the flock and adding to its numbers, much more than any one of us could do individually. Given what we have seen and experienced during our careers we know just what a disjointed world we live in. Through our support of their recruitment and priestly education these men become Our Force Multipliers, ensuring that the word of Christ continues to be heard in our communities and throughout our military.

The need is great and perhaps has never been greater. Will you continue to serve? Will you continue the fight against the darkness?”

Dr. Philip R. O’Connor* also referred to AMS Chaplains as Force Multipliers when I visited with him in Chicago last September. Like Colonel Carpenter, he had personal experience having volunteered to serve the U.S. Embassy in Baghdad, Iraq (2007-2008) working with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the U.S. State Department as an advisor to the Iraqi Ministry of Electricity. The AMS is grateful to Dr. O’Connor, Colonel Carpenter, and all AMS benefactors, who each in their own way serve as Force Multipliers for the AMS through their generosity, advocacy, and commitment to “Serve Those Who Serve.”

To establish a named and endowed scholarship, or to learn more about the 2019 National Collection to be taken in most dioceses the weekend of 10 November 2019, please email or call me at mlavin@milarch.org or (440) 223-6482. To make a donation, visit www.milarch.org/waystosupport. V *DR. PHILIP R. O’CONNOR, 16 SEPTEMBER1948 - 26 SEPTEMBER 2018

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MCCW European Retreat

REACHES RECORD ATTENDANCE

BY ELIZABETH TOMLIN, GENERAL COUNSEL

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he Military Council of Catholic Women (MCCW) held its annual European Regional Retreat at Rolduc Abbey in the Netherlands from 17-21 October. Over 140 women gathered for the event, which was themed “Behold: Divine Mercy, Divine Love, Divine Grace.� The retreat included several talks from AMS priests. Father James Peak, who attended with the Catholic Women of the Chapel group from Vicenza, Italy shared a talked on intentional prayer with the Chaplet of Divine Mercy. Father Redmond Raux, the spiritual moderator for the MCCW in Europe shared a talk on mercy at the end of life and dealing with

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loss, and Father John Gabriel led the retreatants in singing the Chaplet of Divine Mercy. Archbishop Timothy P. Broglio and the AMS priests also held a question and answer panel during which the women asked a broad range of questions about Catholic liturgy, apologetics, family life, and social teaching.

In addition to participating in Masses, the Sacrament of Reconciliation, Stations of the Cross and Mothers Prayers, the women had time for private reflection, fellowship, and two training workshops led by MCCW board members.

The attendees were also led in spiritual reflection through a series of talks by best-selling author and Eternal Word Television Network host, Donna-Marie Cooper O’Boyle. Ms. O’Boyle has spoken at several MCCW conferences and retreats, and she recently released a prayer book for Catholic military women entitled By Dawn’s Early Light: Prayers and Meditations for Catholic Military Wives, that she has dedicated to the MCCW. One of the liveliest aspects of the retreat was a banquet dinner and silent auction where the MCCW raised nearly $7000 to support the AMS Co-Sponsored Seminarian Program.

At the end of the retreat, the MCCW Europe thanked Sarah Zeola for her leadership as the European Regional Coordinator. The European board of Sarah Zeola, Amber Wusterbarth, and Amy Vedra did exceptional work in prayerfully planning and leading an engaging retreat experience for women from England, Belgium, Italy, Germany, Spain, and the United States. Amber and Amy will continue to serve on the board for another year. During the closing Mass, the MCCW installed Amber Humphreys as the new coordinator,

as well as new board members Angela Grimes and Nathalie BienAime. This new leadership team is already planning for the next European Regional Retreat in Rome in 2019. V

KATHLEEN ROSS DISPLAYS AN AUCTIONED GIFT BAG TO SUPPORT THE CO-SPONSORED SEMINARIAN PROGRAM.

MCCW ATTENDEES PARTICIPATING IN TRAINING WORKSHOP.

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THE HARVEST CONTINUES...

NAME: Brother Matthew Tomeny, MIC (ARCH)DIOCESE / RELIGIOUS COMMUNITY: Marian Fathers of the Immaculate Conception ARMED FORCES BRANCH: Navy RANK: N/A COLLEGE(S) / UNIVERSITY(IES) / SEMINARY(IES) ATTENDED (DEGREES AWARDED): PFIC at Dominican House of Studies, Washington, D.C. Franciscan University of Steubenville, Steubenville, Ohio HIGH SCHOOL(S) ATTENDED: Calvary Christian High School, School of the Immaculata HOBBIES: Reading, History, Hiking, Drumming TEAM SPORTS: Football, Track

WHEN WAS THE FIRST TIME YOU THOUGHT YOU MIGHT HAVE A VOCATION TO THE PRIESTHOOD? When I was 13 years old I was reading a book on hell. As I finished, the thought came to me: I want to be a priest to save souls.

WHO OR WHAT EVENTS INFLUENCED YOUR DISCERNMENT JOURNEY? A priest told me to go to Adoration once a week in my junior year of high school. The strong conviction I had as a 13 year old faded with the distractions of high school, but with prayer in Adoration, the call to the priesthood came back. After that summer, another priest told me to do a Holy Hour every day. During those readings, the call to the priesthood would not leave me.

WHAT WOULD PEOPLE BE SURPRISED TO KNOW ABOUT YOU? I am half Hispanic and one of ten children.

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WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SCRIPTURE PASSAGE, WHY? Psalm 30: “Tears come at night but joy comes in the morning (v.5).” Even though we pilgrims walk in a valley of tears, the Lord encourages us to persevere under His Providence.

HOW DID YOU COME TO KNOW JESUS CHRIST PERSONALLY? I started to try to make more sense out of life when I was 13 and began inquiring more about God and my Catholic faith. Then, after a stressful experience, I received a special blessing that resulted in a deeper trust in Jesus the Divine Mercy.

WHAT SPIRITUAL EVENTS OR ACTIVITIES HELPED YOU DEVELOP AND SHARE YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH CHRIST AND HIS CHURCH? After striving to learn more about the Faith, I came to know and love Christ more via prayer and scripture in Adoration, which caused me to only want to serve him.

In college, daily Communion further flamed this love.

WHAT SAINTS OR CHURCH LEADERS INSPIRED YOUR DISCERNMENT JOURNEY? Blessed Virgin Mary, St. Maximilian Kolbe, Pope St. John Paul II, St. Stanislaus Papcyzinski, Bl. George Matulaitis.

WHAT WAS YOUR BACKGROUND BEFORE APPLYING TO BE A SEMINARIAN? College student WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SPIRITUAL BOOK? Diary: Divine Mercy in My Soul by St. Faustina; How to Pray Always by Fr. Raul Plus, S.J.; Through the Eyes of Jesus by Alan Ames WHO ARE YOUR HEROES OR PEOPLE YOU SIGNIFICANTLY ADMIRE? Pope St. Pius X, Venerable Fulton Sheen, Servant of God (SG) Walter Ciczek, S.J., S.G. Vincent Capodanno, and Fr. Gereon Goldmann, O.F.M. HOW WOULD YOU CHARACTERIZE YOUR PRAYER LIFE? Overall, I seek to be in union with God by trying to lift my mind and heart to Him throughout the day and keep Christ within me as though in a chapel of my heart, so that I may be attentive and obedient to the Holy Spirit. V

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CATHOLIC U.S. MILITARY CHAPLAINS AND PRIESTS IN SERVICE TO THE AMS GATHERED WITH AUXILIARY BISHOP F. RICHARD SPENCER FOR MASS AT A DAY OF RECOLLECTION ON 29 OCTOBER 2018, IN THE CHAPEL AT USAG YONGSAN IN SOUTH KOREA.

A R C H D I O C E S E H O L D S D AY O F RECOLLECTION FOR PRIESTS S E RV I N G I N A S I A A N D E U R O P E B Y TAY L O R H E N R Y

Catholic priests serving as U.S. Military chaplains in Asia and Europe have begun reflecting on their service in a series of three days of recollection being held on both continents between October and February. Archbishop Timothy P. Broglio approved the three days of recollection to help spiritually sustain priests endorsed by the Archdiocese of the Military Services, USA, (AMS), to serve those who serve. Chaplains currently stationed beyond U.S. borders are invited to take part in any of the three days of recollection.

The first two days of recollection were held 28-29 October at U.S. Army Garrison (USAG) Yongsan in South Korea and 2-3 December at Ramstein Air Base in Germany. A third is scheduled for 17-18 February at Camp Zama in Japan.

Each Sunday-to-Monday days of recollection begins on a Sunday evening with Evening Prayer followed by a festive meal. Monday consists of Morning Prayer followed by two conferences, Holy Mass, and lunch. The afternoon hours are dedicated to Adoration while the priests are afforded an opportunity to receive the sacrament of penance.

Participants in the October 2018 days of recollection in South Korea, coordinated

by Father Timothy Hirten, Ch, Maj, USAF, heard guest speaker Father Daniel Kister, S.J., who serves in the Archdiocese of Seoul.

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The December 2018 days of recollection in Germany was coordinated by the Very Reverend Redmond Raux, V.F., AMS Dean for Europe. It was held at Ramstein Air Base’s North Chapel. The guest speaker was the Reverend Steven Forster, a retired British Army Colonel who served three tours in Iraq and two tours in Afghanistan. Father Forster currently serves as the pastor of the international parishes in Germany.

The February 2019 days of recollection in Japan will be coordinated by Father Anselmo Hernandez, CH (MAJ), USA. It will be held at the Tokyo downtown Franciscan Center and at the nearby New Sanno Hotel.

The theme of all three days of recollection is “preparations for Lent and liturgical renewal.”

The Most Reverend F. Richard Spencer, Archbishop Broglio’s Episcopal Vicar for Europe and Asia is participating in all three days of recollection. Bishop Spencer said: “The priests are understaffed and work six to seven days a week to serve the multiple needs of Catholic families. The Archbishop stands ready to support these priests to be nourished in their spiritual lives as they so generously give to others.”

CATHOLIC U.S. MILITARY CHAPLAINS AND PRIESTS IN SERVICE TO THE AMS ENJOY DINNER AT THE DRAGON HILL LODGE AT USAG YONGSAN IN SOUTH KOREA ON 28 OCTOBER 2018

“Every other year, the Archdiocese sponsors a series of week-long convocations to enable priests to gather to be updated on policies and liturgical matters and to spend fraternal time renewing their priestly ministry. Through the generosity of AMS donors, these miniretreats will afford our men an opportunity to grow on their faith journey and, as a result, strengthen themselves to serve the flock at their overseas military chapels. We are thankful for the Archbishop’s initiatives and for the financial support shared from within our faithful military communities to support our Catholic priests.”

Priests who serve the AMS faithful beyond U.S. borders are welcome to take part in the days of recollection. V CHRISTMAS 2018

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A M S R e c e iv e s

PAT R I C IA N AWA R D F R O M S T. PAT R I C K ’ S S E M I NA RY I N M E N L O PA R K , C A

BY TAYLOR HENRY

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ARCHBISHOP TIMOTHY P. BROGLIO RECEIVES PATRICIAN AWARD FROM FATHER GEORGE E. SCHULTZE, S.J., PRESIDENT AND RECTOR OF ST. PATRICK’S SEMINARY, ON 29 SEPTEMBER IN MENLO PARK, CA.

A

rchbishop Timothy P. Broglio accepted the St. Patrick Seminary’s Patrician Award on 29 September at the seminary’s 11th annual gala in Menlo Park, CA. Archbishop Broglio received the award—a statuette of St. Patrick—on behalf of the gala honoree, the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, (AMS), of which he has been the chief shepherd for the past 11 years. The AMS Vocations Office holds its annual spring discernment retreat for prospective Catholic military chaplains at the seminary.

Nearly 700 St. Patrick’s supporters attended the gala on seminary grounds under clear skies and cool, early autumn weather. They included military personnel from nearby Beale Air Force Base, other Armed Forces, Gold Star families, and Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) chaplains from Menlo Park and Palo Alto. Many veteran servicemen and women also joined the celebration.

Father George E. Schultze, S.J., the seminary’s President-Rector, noted that “for at least the past ten years, St. Patrick’s has hosted an AMS retreat…

The retreat normally has 30 to 40 men who are enlisted, students at the Academies, or seminarians interested in the military chaplaincy, who spend three days at St. Patrick’s listening to the experiences of military chaplains from each branch of the armed services… St. Patrick’s is the only seminary on the West Coast that has a military discernment retreat,” he added.

The spring discernment retreat is one of two that the AMS Vocations Office holds annually in the United States, one on either side of the country. The eastern retreat usually takes place in the fall at a seminary somewhere in the eastern U.S. Collectively, over the past ten years, those retreats have yielded an abundant harvest of young men answering God’s call to become priests and military chaplains through the “Co-Sponsored Seminarian Program,” (CSP), a vocations partnership between the AMS and cooperating U.S. dioceses and religious communities. Enrollment has steadily climbed from just seven in 2008 to 47 this year, bringing new priests into the military and promising relief from a desperate Catholic chaplain shortage. (continued on page 32) CHRISTMAS 2018

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A M S R e c e iv e s

PAT R I C IA N AWA R D. . .

continued from page 31

In accepting the Patrician Award, Archbishop Broglio said in part:

“Allow me to express my gratitude for this prestigious award given to those I am privileged to serve. I am grateful to this seminary, Father Schultze, and to the whole seminary community. Every year the AMS brings here a group of young men who are considering the priesthood and the chaplaincy.

You always welcome them, shower them with hospitality, and inspire them with your good example.

“I also recognize the Gold Star families present here. Your sons and daughters made the ultimate sacrifice, but you continue to experience that absence in your lives. We join you in pledging an eternal remembrance of your sorrow.

“I am grateful to all of you who support St. Patrick Seminary. Know that the military continues to be the largest single source of vocations in the United States today. The CARA (Center for Applied Research in the Apostolate) study reminds us that 4% of those ordained priests in the USA this year are prior service, while 13% came from families where either Mom or Dad served in the military.” V ST. PATRICK’S SEMINARY AND UNIVERSITY, MENLO PARK, CALIFORNIA.

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The Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA

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

Tour of Duty Brick up to 2 lines 18 characters per line $250 Donation

Memorial Brick

up to 4 lines 18 characters per line $300 Donation

To order a brick please visit

www.milarch.org/tour-of-duty-brick-campaign You can donate online or print a donation form.

Bricks are installed every spring and fall.

Questions? Please contact the Advancement Office, (202) 719-3622 or support@milarch.org.

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Mass and Ceremony in Washington Honor 100th Anniversary of End of World War I

BY RICHARD SZCZEPANOWSKI

W

ith a solemn Mass, the mournful toll of bells, and patriotic songs and poems, more than 300 gathered at the Saint John Paul II National Shrine in Washington on 11 November to mark the 100th anniversary of the end of World War I and to honor those men and women who have served in the armed services.

PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY: JACLYN LIPPELMANN ARTICLE ORIGINALLY PUBLISHED IN THE CATHOLIC STANDARD, 13 NOVEMBER 2018

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“We have gathered not to assign blame, look at causes, or rejoice in victory,” said Archbishop Timothy Broglio, Archbishop for the Military Services, USA. “We gather to give thanks to those who sacrificed themselves. We also assemble to beg God for lasting peace.”

“We not only look back in gratitude,” he added, “but we look forward to profit from what we celebrate.”

Archbishop Broglio was the homilist at the Mass, and Baltimore Archbishop William E. Lori, Supreme Chaplain of the Knights of Columbus, was the principal celebrant. The Mass and a special ceremony preceding it were were jointly sponsored by the Knights of Columbus and the Military Archdiocese.

The commemoration was held on Veterans Day, the national holiday that was formerly known as Armistice Day in honor of the treaty ending World War I on 11 November 1918.

“The soldiers we honor today risked their lives for a greater value – to end a senseless war,” Archbishop Broglio said. He added that all veterans have responded to the call “to defend the weak and support our allies in favor of those freedoms in which we believe.”

The Mass was offered 11 November at 11 a.m. – the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month – which was the same hour in Paris that the armistice between the Allies and Germany took effect exactly 100 years ago, thus ending “the war to end all wars.” The conflict – which was waged from 1914 to 1918 – resulted in more than 20 million deaths, 11 million of them soldiers.

In commemorating “the centennial of the armistice,” Archbishop Lori said, “we are commemorating those who gave their lives for freedom … (and) we pray to our God of mercy and reconciliation for peace.”

Archbishop Broglio said that the men and women who serve in the armed forces “go into the midst of conflict in our place. They have a sacrificial willingness to serve a greater good. It is essential we give thanks.”

He also mourned “the tremendous sacrifice of human potential when men fail to settle their differences by other means” than war. (continued on page 36) CHRISTMAS 2018

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Mass and Ceremony...

continued from page 35

Lieutenant General Nadja West, the U.S. Army surgeon general, served as a lector at the Mass. Gold Star mothers Judith Faunce and Mary Wiley – both of whom lost sons in conflict – served as gift bearers.

The Mass was offered on what would have been the 44th birthday of Faunce’s son, Capt. Brian Faunce, was killed in action on 18 September 2003. “I thought of him and that I gave birth to him exactly 44 years ago today,” Faunce said.

“World War I was supposed to be the war to end all wars, but it wasn’t. Today, I honor all the vets – not only those who died, but also the living.”

Wiley’s son, Army Specialist Ross Vogel, was killed in action on 29 September 2009. He was 27 years old. “We must never forget what they did for their country. We must never forget their sacrifices and their willingness to give up their lives,” Wiley said.

Prior to the Mass, the Knights of Columbus and the Military Archdiocese hosted an armistice centennial commemoration ceremony.

The ceremony included readings from Catholic poet Joyce Kilmer, a Knight of Columbus and soldier who was killed in World War I. During the ceremony, the crucifix worn by Kilmer was displayed, along with helmets worn by doughboys who fought in France and the uniform worn by Father John DeValles, a Catholic chaplain known as “The Angel of the Trenches” for his heroic ministry to the injured and dying in that war.

The ceremony before the Mass opened with “Amazing Grace” played by 11 members of the Virginia Military Institute Pipe Band. Also marching into the chapel were the Joint Armed Forces Color Guard. That event also included a ceremonial wreath laying and the tolling of a bell 11 times to mark the 100th anniversary of the end of the war. There was also a presentation of 28 historical U.S. flags carried by a Fourth Degree Knights of Columbus Honor Guard bearing flags dating from those used during the American Revolution and other conflicts up to the present day.

During the ceremony, the Choir of the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception sang “The Saints Triumphant: A Triptych for

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Armistice Day” composed

by Peter Latona, the basilica’s director of music.

That original work was drawn from the poetry of Joyce Kilmer, including his “Prayer of a Soldier in France.”

Carl Anderson, the Supreme Knight of the Knights of Columbus, pointed out that the Knights of Columbus were instrumental in establishing “comfort centers” which “supported those who bore the burden of war.”

“In a world of hatred and bloodshed … the Knights of Columbus had a higher mission – a mission that continues today,” Anderson said. “We continue to believe that our principles are cornerstones for our faith, our communities, and our nation.”

Noting that the first American officer killed in the war, Army Medical Officer Dr. William Fitzsimons, and the last American officer to be killed in the war, Father William Davitt, a chaplain, were both members of the Knights of Columbus, Anderson called them “two men who embodied the virtues of charity, unity, fraternity, and patriotism.”

At the Mass, Archbishop Broglio reminded those in attendance that “war is the failure of statesmen, but the weight is borne by the armed forces,” and urged the faithful to work for “the promotion of understanding and world peace.”

Prior to the end of the Mass, Archbishop Lori offered “gratitude to the men and women of the military” and invoked “God’s blessing on our country, other countries, ourselves, and our families.”

The Mass ended with a lone bugler playing “Taps” and the congregation singing “America the Beautiful.” V

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Pilgrimage for the Sea Services Draws Hundreds to Seton Shrine

BY TAYLOR HENRY

O

n Sunday, 7 October, Father Francis P. Foley, CHC, CPT, USN, Command Chaplain at the U.S. Naval Academy, celebrated Holy Mass at the annual Pilgrimage for the Sea Services in Emmitsburg, MD. The Pilgrimage is held each fall at the National Shrine of Elizabeth Ann Seton, 339 South Seton Avenue.

This year, 420 supporters of the U.S. Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, and U.S. Public Health Service gathered for the special day of prayer and thanksgiving for all who serve our nation at sea.

Ann Seton became a saint in 1975, Monsignor John J. O’Connor, then Navy Chief of Chaplains (Cardinal Archbishop of New York), advocated that she be named the “Patroness of the Sea Services.”

Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton “knew all too well the dangers that await our country’s sailors and defenders at sea,” the website notes. Her husband, William Magee Seton, ran his own shipping company, and both her sons, William and Richard, served in the U.S. Navy. William retired as a Lieutenant after 17 years of service.

Richard died at sea in 1823.

The history of the Pilgrimage dates back decades. According to setonshrine.org, after Elizabeth

“She used to exchange letters, obviously, with her sons,” said Mr. Ron Judge, Executive Director of

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the Seton Shrine, shortly after the Mass. “So we believe her heart is near and dear to those serving on the seas, such as those defending the country, and she, of course, was an American and loved her country.

So every year we come together with all of our friends from the sea services and we pray for the men and women who serve and protect us as well as for their families who are back home supporting them.”

Admiral William J. Fallon, USN (Ret), Chair of the Pilgrimage Sponsoring Committee, said “the whole idea (of the pilgrimage) is to basically to take the opportunity for our sea service men and women to offer their petitions to St. Elizabeth Ann, ask for her protections and intercessions to take care of our people as they go about the world.

And it’s an opportunity for our people that are actually serving, and their families and friends, to come together to give thanks for the many benefits we enjoy.”

difficulty.’ This extraordinary saint captures something essential to the Gospel, something applicable to the life of every Christian, regardless of whether the person is male or female, Sailor or Soldier, young or old, husband, wife, parent or priest.

God calls each and every one of us uniquely, lovingly, and powerfully.

He calls all of us to a holy life. He provides grace in abundance.”

The 3:00 p.m. Mass was followed by a complimentary dinner for those gathered. The annual Pilgrimage is co-sponsored by the Seton Shrine and the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA. The Sponsoring Committee comprises retired officers and their spouses who provide financial support for the event. V FATHER FRANCIS P. FOLEY DELIVERING THE SEA SERVICES MASS HOMILY.

In his homily, Father Foley observed that “among her writings we find the following from Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton: ‘We know certainly that our God calls us to a holy life. We know He gives us every grace... and though we are so weak in ourselves, this grace is able to carry us through every obstacle and CHRISTMAS 2018

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REACH MORE Reaches the Peripheries

By Casey Bustamante

“I

NATHAN ROUNDTREE, NICHOLAS ABIN, CASEY BUSTAMANTE, JOSEPH PFANG (HANSEN YOUNG ADULT LEADER)

thought we had been forgotten.” This was one of the comments the young adult leader, Joseph Pfang, shared with me on my trip to Camp Hansen in Okinawa, Japan, one of the two military installations I visited to begin gathering data for the Reach More initiative. It wasn’t related to having resources but related to the lack of a priestchaplain at Camp Hansen. There is one chaplain (non-Catholic)

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serving the whole camp which houses mostly unaccompanied and single Marines. A contract priest normally travels to their camp, and along to several other camps, to celebrate Mass for the Marines on Sundays. The contract recently ended which resulted in the Camp going without Mass for a couple of weeks. Yes, there are other camps but it took about an hour to shuttle if not taking a taxi due to the Marines’ inability to own vehicles.

This is the same demographic that the Church is struggling to see enter church doors and attend Mass. These great obstacles are overcome with commitment and the knowledge that the Eucharist is the source and summit of our faith. This was a pivotal point in the interview sessions for the Reach More initiative. Joseph knows the Archdiocese has not actually forgotten the Marines on Camp Hansen. Yet, the sense of forgottenness was felt deeply and troubled him. This sentiment was not only felt for himself but also for the other Catholics who only have the opportunity for Mass when it is provided at Camp Hansen. The lack of a priest-chaplain to accompany Catholics on a daily basis made it easy to see the necessity of providing training and formation, which Joseph needs to walk with his brothers and sisters in Christ as they journey in the faith. The Reach More initiative is a pilot project organized by the Office of Evangelization in collaboration with Evangelical CatholicTM which invites five military installations to

journey with the Reach More online training and coaching formation.

The initiative invites two young adult (ages 18-30) leaders at each military installation to be formed in evangelization. In turn, the two leaders will train a small group in discipleship and evangelization as

OSAN AIR BASE, SOUTH KOREA CHAPLAIN, FATHER JOSEPH IDOMELE

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REACH MORE well. The following installations have accepted this invitation: Camp Hansen, Japan; Camp Pendleton, California; Joint Base Pearl HarborHickam, Hawaii; Osan Air Base, South Korea; and MCB Twentynine Palms, California.

The Office of Evangelization began gathering data this fall season to reflect the transformation the Catholic faith community as a whole will experience throughout the following year with the Reach More formation. The data survey was collected in-person in an interview-style, in which members at each military installation were

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continued from page 41

invited to share their experience of the spiritual and community life through the Catholic ministries of the chapel. The interviews included questions in four areas, Encounter, Accompany, Community, and Send, which were modified from Living as a Missionary Disciples: A Resource for Evangelization.

The same questions will be asked in a midterm and final assessment.

A reflection in these four areas hopes to challenge the community as it moves from the practice of maintenance to cultivating missionary-focused discipleship. V FATHER JOSEPH IDOMELE, CAPT. KATIE TAYLOR AND MEMBERS OF THE OSAN AB CATHOLIC FAITH COMMUNITY

The Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA

Triennial National Collection for the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA

BY MARY LAVIN

The next scheduled collection is the weekend of 10 November 2019.

Funds received from the 2013 and 2016 National Collections have provided the means necessary for the AMS to continue to assure pastoral care and services to the almost 1.8 million AMS faithful spread across the globe who face constant transition and uncertainty, to implement several new and important initiatives, including the ďŹ rst-ever Catholic marriage enrichment retreat and widespread certiďŹ cation of catechists at their installations, to begin to build an endowment with a long-term goal of assuring a self-sustaining source of funding, and to continue to underwrite the Co-Sponsored seminarian program.

To learn more about how you can support the National Collection for the AMS, and to see a working list of participating dioceses, go to www.milarch.org/ nationalcollection.

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A Pilgrimage of Faith

BY MARK MOITOZA, TH.D. VICE CHANCELLOR FOR EVANGELIZATION

The international celebration of World Youth Day takes place 22-27 January 2019 in Panama. The theme for the 34th WYD is “I am the servant of the Lord. May it be done to me according to your word,” Lk. 1:38. Young adults from the military plan to join thousands of young people from around the world to learn from Mary’s “yes” to the Lord’s call through prayer, growth, and a generous willingness to serve.

The World Youth Day USA International Pilgrimage Leaders Guide, posted online by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, offers both practical and spiritual insights for those preparing to attend. One of the primary perceptions noted in the introduction emphasizes WYD as a pilgrimage rather than a group tour, where one observes from a distance. Pilgrims do more than observe from the confines of their travel group.

Pilgrims encounter Jesus, the culture, the people of faith, and

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recognize that the gift of a pilgrimage is to be shared rather than a happy memory stored away in photo files.

At WYD in Krakow, Poland at the Shrine of Czestochowa, on 28 July 2016, Pope Francis preached, “The Lord does not keep his distance, but is near and real. He is in our midst and he takes care of us…”

The Holy Father reminded young people that Jesus Christ comes to encounter us in real and personal ways. The Lord accompanies us and sends us on missions to do the same in the lives of others.

There is, for each pilgrim, a choice to engage in the encounter first in order to be accompanied and then sent.

The pilgrimage of World Youth Day fosters an encounter with Jesus through the Sacraments, through the Scripture proclaimed, through daily personal and communal prayers, and through service to others.

In each of these opportunities, the encounter with Jesus is a dynamic and life changing gift that proposes a response. The recognition of the gift of faith, along with the sense of gratitude in accepting such a gift, propels a response to both follow and to serve Christ.

In many ways the opportunity for pilgrimage allows pilgrims to practice what it means to be a missionary disciple. Even though the pilgrim chooses to participate, there are times when he or she becomes lost or confused in a foreign land. Pilgrims have to rely on God’s providence to find their way, which is often found through the generosity of others who seek to serve as well.

The Church completed the Synod on Young People, the Faith, and Vocational Discernment this past October and there remains much to unpack. The rich reflections shared reminded the whole Church to listen to young people, to accompany them as they discern, and to encourage them as they share their gifts of service and leadership that are needed. (continued on page 46)

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A Pilgrimage of Faith CONTINUED FROM PAGE 45

This January the whole Church is urged to accompany young pilgrims attending World Youth Day in Panama through prayer, along with those participating from home via social media and live streaming too. Follow the news and images of WYD 2019, but make sure to also take the time to pray for the young Church on this vital Pilgrimage of Faith. Each of us can contribute by praying the Official World Youth Day Prayer so that the joy of the Gospel will continue to be proclaimed.

Official World Youth Day Prayer: Merciful Father, You call us to live our lives as a way of salvation. Help us to recall the past with gratitude, to embrace the present with courage and to build the future with hope. Lord Jesus, our friend and brother, thank you for looking upon us with love. Let us listen to your voice as it resonates in the hearts of each one with the strength and light of the Holy Spirit. Grant us the grace of being a Church that goes forth with vibrant faith and a youthful face to announce the joy of the Gospel. May we help to build up the kind of society we long for, full of justice and fraternal love.

We pray for the Pope and bishops; for priests and deacons; for those in consecrated life and for volunteers; for young people and all who will participate in the upcoming World Youth Day in Panamá, and for those who are preparing to receive them. Our Lady of Antigua, Patroness of Panama, help us to pray and generously like you: “I am the servant of the Lord. May it be done to me according to your word” (Lk 1:38). Amen. V

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Resources OFFICIAL WYD WEBSITE https://panama2019.pa/en/home/ WYD USA INTERNATIONAL PILGRIMAGE LEADERS GUIDE http://www.usccb.org/about/world-youth-day/upload/ wydusa-international-guide.pdf AMS WYD UPDATES https://www.milarch.org/evangelization/ world-youth-day-2019/ SALT AND LIGHT MEDIA LIVE COVERAGE http://saltandlighttv.org/wydcentral/blog?language=en

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“Serving Those Who Serve”

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

Archdiocese For The Military Services, USA NON PROFIT ORG U.S. POSTAGE PAID SOMD PERMIT #1169

“May your Christmas time be rich in blessings. May you be strengthened by your faith in the birth of the Son of God and may you be surrounded by loved ones and special traditions.

Coupled with my Christmas good wishes, I pray that 2019 will be a year of peace, good health, and civility in our Nation and beyond.” – Archbishop Timothy P. Broglio

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