FALL/CHRISTMAS 2016
THE MAGAZINE OF THE ARCHDIOCESE FOR THE MILITARY SERVICES, USA
is only H e v a g e H t world tha e h t d e v o l hould not s m i H n i s e For God so er believ v e o h w t a h John 3:16 t . e f i l Son, l a n r e ave et perish but h
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Dear Friends of the Archdiocese,
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inally, these pages are being sent out to you. For some time now I have desired to bring you up to speed about the activities of the summer and a new pastoral year. However, a number of activities and transitions have forced the AMS into producing a single issue of Salute for both the autumn and Christmas. In addition to the usual features about the pastoral travel of the Auxiliary Bishops and me, you will meet another co-sponsored seminarian, learn about the MCCW conference in Washington last April, and hear about the Jubilee for the Military. Of course, there is always exciting news from the Office of Evangelization and details of the initiatives of the Department of Advancement. The AMS staff is always busy and their zeal for the mission of this global Archdiocese inspires even the most casual observer. In September, the Edwin Cardinal O’Brien Pastoral Center also welcomed a group from Shaw Air Force Base in South Carolina. It was a pleasure to introduce them to the chapel and offices. In an Archdiocese that never sees the sun set, it is not often that a group from outside Washington is able to come here. As we approach another celebration of the birth of our Savior, I pray that the Prince of Peace will fill your hearts with serenity and inspire all people to work for lasting justice. I hope that you enjoy the following pages and I wish you a happy and healthy 2017. Sincerely in Christ,
The Most Reverend Timothy P. Broglio Archbishop
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THE MAGAZINE OF THE ARCHDIOCESE FOR THE MILITARY SERVICES, USA VOLUME 10 NUMBER 3 FALL/CHRISTMAS 2016
TA B L E o f C O N T E N T S 4 What did you do last summer? Archbishop Timothy P. Broglio 10 The Letters Revisited Bishop Richard B. Higgins 12 Summertime: a time to Pause, to Reflect, and to Act Bishop F. Richard Spencer 16 A Salute to my Alma Mater Bishop Neal J. Buckon 20 Semper Paratus, Always Ready Bishop Robert J. Coyle 22 Summer Training Father Aidan Logan, O.C.S.O. 22 The Harvest Continues... Meet Dustin Shane 26 MCCW-W Celebrates its 60th Anniversary Father Joseph Deichert 36 Labor Day Weekend Brings Future Laborers for the Vineyard to D.C. Taylor Henry 38 Jubilee for the Military Father John Bateman 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.
FALL/CHRISTMAS 2016
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
His only ld that He gave ld not loved the wor in Him shou For God so ever believes John 3:16 Son, that who eternal life. perish but have
Military Services, P.O. Box 4469, Washington, D.C., USA 20017-0469
Feedback, letters to the editor: editor@milarch.org | Website: www.milarch.org
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What did you do last BY ARCHBISHOP TIMOTHY P. BROGLIO
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any of us might remember those composition assignments in grade school when we were asked to describe our summer. Sometimes the results represented great strides in creative writing, because the story line had little connection with the halcyon summer days just passed. On other occasions, they were the result of painful efforts to write something.
One great advantage to ministry in the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, is the absence of any struggle to find subject matter for autumn compositions. Ministry to a mobile flock and to those still reeling from the continuation of the longest war in U.S. history represents a long list of arrivals and departures and a generally interesting series of places visited, as well. The month of May provided some delightful pastoral encounters. There was a quick stop at the Air Force priests’ retreat in Lutz, Fla. It is always delightful to spend some hours with the chaplains, contract priests, and reservists in the beautiful setting of the Bethany Retreat Center. Monsignor Daniel H. Mueggenborg offered some excellent reflections.
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There was time to celebrate two confirmations in the D.C. area and then head to Great Falls, Mont., the home of Malmstrom Air Force Base. Three little girls were wellprepared by the Catholic community there and I was privileged to give them their first Holy Communion. That invitation to receive the Lord in the Eucharist and to have Him dwell within us for the first time always moves me. Father John Reutemann (Washington, D.C.) was an excellent host, even if we discovered inadvertently that his father and I are the same age! The visit to Malmstrom was actually occasioned by an invitation to preach a retreat to the priests of the Diocese of Great Falls-Billings. The retreat was held in Red Lodge, an absolutely beautiful setting surrounded by the Rocky Mountains. The organizers had not planned a very taxing schedule and there was time for some leisurely strolls in the natural beauty. The flight path back to D.C. from Billings allowed me to join the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis in welcoming their new Archbishop, the Most Reverend Bernard Hebda. He and I had lived
summer? for some years in the same house in Rome. I was delighted to join him for his installation in the magnificent Basilica of St. Paul, which dominates the city with the same name. The next day after another confirmation the clergy of the AMS hosted a dinner in honor of the outgoing Apostolic Nuncio, Archbishop Carlo Maria Viganò. I was a bit embarrassed that it had taken me five years to invite him to dine at the Edwin Cardinal O’Brien Pastoral Center. It was a privilege to thank him for his extraordinary ministry in our country for these years. The Memorial Mass (about which you can read on p. 33) almost served as a prelude to the annual International Military Pilgrimage to Lourdes (PMI). Of course, Lourdes has not gotten any closer to Washington over the years, but it never ceases to be a
wonderful place to feel the warmth of our Blessed Mother. She wrapped her arms around our pilgrimage group and made everyone at home in the “heart” of the Church. Once again the Knights of Columbus worked overtime to care for the largest group yet to participate from the U.S.A. Priests, Knights, volunteers, (continued on page 6)
ARCHBISHOP BROGLIO SIGNS A CONDOLENCE BOOK COMMEMORATING THE KATYN MASSACRE MUSEUM IN WARSAW, POLAND, HTTP://WWW.MUZEUMKATYNSKIE.PL/ THE TOUR GUIDE AND THE BISHOP OF THE AUSTRIAN MILITARY DIOCESE, BISHOP WERNER FREISTETTER ARE STANDING BEHIND THE ARCHBISHOP. FALL/CHRISTMAS 2016
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What did you do last wounded and ill pilgrims prayed together both at our Masses and the events organized by the PMI team. The opportunities to interact with the pilgrims in those significant shrines are always privileged moments. A number of our pilgrims made the Stations of the Cross barefoot! July 24th, the Sunday before the official World Youth Day activities began, groups of strangers from Austria, France, Latvia, Lithuania, New Zealand, and the United States gathered in Warsaw at the Cathedral of the Military Diocese of Poland. Cadets, soldiers, airmen, seminarians, a deacon, several priests, and four bishops were engaged in what is called “the days in the diocese”. The Polish Military Diocese and the Polish Military worked diligently to plan the details of four very full days. Sunday began with a solemn Mass in the Military Cathedral, a wreath-laying ceremony at the monument to Polish resistance, and the first taste of the history of this great people who would be our hosts for a week. Thunderstorms in Chicago ensured that I missed my connections in Zurich and the opening Mass!
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Student housing at a military institute provided adequate lodging for the pilgrims and the bishops were offered more commodious space in the professors’ building. However, the warmth of the welcome was mirrored by the heat and humidity. There was no air conditioning to cushion the impact. The schedule was full. Monday’s long ride to Czestochowa allowed the pilgrims to pray together, to sing, and most importantly to engage in dialogue about their experiences, growth in their relationship with Jesus Christ, and the differences and similarities between cultures. One young soldier from New Zealand was confined to a wheelchair due to an accident shortly before her departure. Almost immediately, everyone was lending her a hand and taking the turns pushed and lifting the chair. Solidarity was evident at every turn. The museums in Warsaw reminded us about Poland’s role in the history of Europe. The country was often a victim of the scheming of other nations and yet rose to the occasion when Vienna was about to fall to the Ottoman Empire in
summer?... 1683. No one could remain unmoved before the objects left behind by the 20,000 victims of communist brutality at Katyn. Of course, the silent witness of the inhumanity of the Nazi concentration camp at Auschwitz (Oświęcim in Polish) escaped no one.
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ACTIVE DUTY MILITARY PERSONNEL FROM NEW ZEALAND AND POLAND HELP A MILITARY PILGRIM IN A WHEELCHAIR DESCEND THE STEPS TO A DESTROYED GAS CHAMBER AND CREMATORIA AT THE AUSCHWITZ CONCENTRATION CAMP IN POLAND.
It was good to observe the interaction between the young people from NATO nations and the fervor of their faith. The French composed the largest group and they animated the liturgies with their choir and vibrant singing. They were also the most easily recognizable with their blue and white striped jerseys.
Personally, I was touched to be able to pray at the baptistery in Wadowice where St. John Paul II was reborn to new life. The link between that rebirth and his service to the universal Church, which included his decision to ordain me an archbishop in St. Peter’s Basilica and send me as his representative to the Dominican Republic, seemed so powerful.
In Krakow itself the military young adults were accommodated in tents at a military base, but the only hardship was the heat. The Americans assured me that the sleeping mats were very comfortable, the meals good, and the showers hot. The Americans from military installations around the world gathered for Mass on Thursday night at the Divine Mercy Center. It was no mean feat to arrive there, but the celebration was splendid. Conversations throughout the pilgrimage revealed young people journeying in faith and seeking to grow in their relationship with the (continued on page 8)
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What did you do last Lord Jesus. The time in the Polish Military Diocese and the time in Krakow with Pope Francis left no one unmoved. Strangers arrived on July 24th, but only friends parted a week later after the closing Mass with the Holy Father on July 31st.
year’s activities and the extensive contribution of this fraternal organization to the proclamation of the Gospel in so many places in our world. The Knights’ activities for the Lourdes Pilgrimage were also highlighted. Placement at a table allowed me to hear firsthand from Archbishop Jeanbart about the trials of the Church in Aleppo, Syria.
ARCHBISHOP BROGLIO AT THE BAPTISMAL FONT OF SAINT JOHN PAUL II.
My return from Poland allowed me a night in Washington, D.C., before flying to Toronto for the annual Supreme Convention of the Knights of Columbus. Supreme Knight Carl Anderson impressed all of us with his report on the
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After two more days in Washington, D.C., Seminarian Patrick DiLoreto (co-sponsored from Denver) and I set out for the Bishop Hodges Pastoral Center in the hills of West Virginia. Here a number of families gathered from military installations to spend a week in prayer, fellowship, and faith-building activities. It was a good time to grow in faith and the families had requested this initiative on the part of the AMS. I enjoyed the relaxed atmosphere and the natural beauty. The drive there was not simple, but I went back by a different route and had an easier journey.
summer?...
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ARCHBISHOP BROGLIO WITH U.S. MILITARY PILGRIMS AFTER MASS AT THE SAINT JOHN PAUL II SANCTUARY IN KRAKOW, POLAND. TO THE LEFT OF ARCHBISHOP BROGLIO ARE FATHER BOB MONAGLE (US AIR FORCE), FATHER LUKAZ WILLENBERG (US ARMY) AND TO THE RIGHT OF THE ARCHBISHOP ARE SEMINARIAN TYLER REED AND FATHER JOHN REUTEMANN (US AIR FORCE).
The summer concluded with the annual Labor Day gathering with the co-sponsored seminarians. It marked the end of a full, but not unpleasant
summer. In the last analysis, the full summer days offer great items for a composition about what this Archbishop did last summer. V
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THE LETTERS… REVISITED
By Bishop Richard B. Higgins
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he call from a brother bishop came late in the afternoon. “I hate to ask and I know you are very busy and your schedule is probably full but is there any way you could help us and cover a few Confirmations?” A neighboring diocese had lost one of its auxiliaries and was desperately trying to find a bishop able to assist. Earlier that day I had canceled an overseas trip! The good Lord was messing with me again, but what an opportunity? I would be thrilled to help. I squeezed an additional 21 confirmation ceremonies into the calendar, crisscrossed the great State of Maryland, north and south, east and west during May and June and collapsed from exhaustion the latter part of June. But what a blast! The box was in the back of the car for weeks, 1053 letters from the Confirmation candidates and I read each and every one! It is a common practice for candidates to write the bishop explaining why they want to be confirmed and I wrote a piece on this five years ago for Salute but times had changed. His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI had retired and His Holiness Pope Francis had been elected as his successor. The wars in Iraq and Afghanistan were winding down, the economy was recovering and we were in an election year. Our young people faced different challenges. For many reasons, candidates for Confirmation in the Archdiocese for the Military Services participate in a 12 month formation process. Few enjoy the privilege of attending parochial schools so the pace and content of the formation process can be challenging. In contrast, the folks in our neighboring diocese enjoyed
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the “luxury” of a two year process enabling a more comprehensive and deeper exploration of their personal relationship to Jesus, His teachings and His church. In both situations a parallel process for parents and sponsors was essential and its relevance was attested to in many of the “letters to the bishop.” The dynamic, personal witness of Pope Francis reverberated throughout the letters. His emphasis on care for the poor and simplicity of life touched the hearts of the candidates. Innovative teachers and sponsors accompanied their students on mission trips, exposed them to the plight of the homeless, the poor and the hungry in various areas of the city and the diocese. Participation in a very clever 30-hour famine was a reality check for the majority of candidates and quite a few expressed their discomfort with their cravings for the basic essentials. Common to both civilian and military youth is the importance of faithful and steadfast witness to the faith by parents, grandparents and sponsors. REAL role models mean something to them. While the posters on their bedroom walls might highlight secular “heroes” the ones they really value are Saint Teresa of Calcutta, Saint Thomas More, Saint Maximilian Kolbe and Saint Damien of Molokai. While I have the privilege of bestowing the gifts of the Holy Spirit upon these wonderful young people, I worry about their future relationship to Jesus and His Church. Too many will drift away, some succumbing to the indifference of the day, others ill-equipped to respond to the “intellectuals” they encounter away from home, still others challenged by a pervasive culture of materialism. We need to pray constantly for these young people who open their hearts and share the stories of their journey to Confirmation with the bishop. We need to facilitate their entry into dynamic small communities whose collective prayer and Catholic action will sustain them throughout their transition to adulthood. We need to ground them in scripture and prayer and provide them with a sound background in apologetics. Above all we need to love and nourish them lest they join the ranks of the “spiritual but not religious.” V
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SUMMER TIME: a time to PAUSE,
to REFLECT , and to ACT
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By Bishop F. Richard Spencer
n the hallowed grounds of the Dachau Concentration Camp in Germany, “The Extraordinary Jubilee Year of Mercy� came into focus as our Military Chapels throughout Europe gathered in June along with our Archbishop, the Most Reverend Timothy P. Broglio. Even though the dark clouds above threatened outdoor activities, over 200 military Catholic family members gathered to walk the very grounds, where some of the worst sins of the Holocaust occurred, and to pray for forgiveness and mercy. This AMS European journey, sponsored by the Military Council of Catholic Women, Europe (MCCWE), along with the Sir Knights (Knights of Columbus) created an opportunity to join in prayer, reflection, and remembrance as our Holy Father, Pope Francis, has invited us to do during this Jubilee Year of Mercy.
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SOLDIERS FROM GRAFENWOEHR, GERMANY, AND AIRMEN FROM RAMSTEIN AIR BASE, GERMANY, WALK THE SACRED GROUNDS OF DACHAU TO EXPLORE THE BARRACKS THAT HOUSED THOSE WHO WERE LATER SENTENCED TO DEATH.
Other highlights during this past summer in Eurasia included a special pastoral visit to Japan. I was able to visit the U.S. Army base, Camp Zama, and also the USAF Base, at Yokota, Japan. While on the Island, I was challenged by Chapel members to join their youth group for a little hike – which included climbing to the very top of Mt. Fuji. Just a little day hike, I was told! As part of Poland’s traditional August pilgrimage to the famous Black Madonna, a sacred icon preserved at the historic shrine to Our Lady of (continued on page 14) FALL/CHRISTMAS 2016
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POLISH SOLDIERS LEAD THE PROCESSION TO CZESTOCHOWA, AUGUST 2016
Czestochowa, the Queen of Peace, I was once again honored to join soldiers and military officers from the United States and five other nations in a “Walk for Peace.” An estimated 135,000 pilgrims of all ages — many of them carrying rosaries, crosses, and hiking sticks — made the trek from hundreds of towns and cities all over Poland, walking for as long as 10 days across the country. The six-nation military delegation making the “Walk for Peace” consisted of troops and clergy from the U.S., Poland, Germany, Ukraine, Lithuania, and Latvia. This year marked the 305th anniversary of this annual pilgrimage, which dates back to 1711 when the bubonic plague decimated Warsaw’s population. After the epidemic abruptly ended, a brotherhood of knights trekked from the capital to offer thanks to the Virgin Mary, and the tradition has continued ever since. Upon arrival in Czestochowa on August 14, I concelebrated a field Mass with Bishop Józef Guzdek, the Military Ordinary of Poland, along with 60 military priests. About 2,500 pilgrims attended the Mass.
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Two other outstanding August events included LIFE TEEN SUMMER CAMPS for our military young adults. The first summer camp for 2016 was conducted in the Netherlands and the second was held in Alton Castle, England. There were teenagers from U.S. Military installations in Germany (Grafenwoehr, Ramstein, Vilseck, Wiesbaden) and in Italy (Vicenza). And so what else did we do for fun this summer of 2016? I was invited to join one of our military youth groups hiking 116 miles on the Camino de Santiago, in northern Spain. Commonly called “The Saint James Way,” this pilgrimage, celebrated for centuries, has recently become very popular after the Martin Sheen movie titled “The Way.” The month of September was also very busy in many of our chapels, as the AMS hosted three AMS Catechist Training sessions. These sessions were conducted by José Amaya, Director of the Office of Faith Formation, for all of our great volunteer catechists on location at Ramstein, Wiesbaden, and Ansbach chapel communities. V
MEREDITH PUENTE-BONILLA, A MILITARY DEPENDENT OF MSG AND MRS. PUENTE-BONILLA, PAUSES TO REFLECT AND PRAY IN FRONT OF ONE OF THE MEMORIAL WALLS DEDICATED TO THOSE WHO DIED AT DACHAU.
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A SALUTE TO MY ALMA MATER BY BISHOP NEAL J. BUCKON
(L-R) FR. ROBERT NIEHOFF, S.J., BISHOP BUCKON, AND LTC MATTHEW JOHNSON
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ohn Carroll University (JCU) is a private, co-educational, Jesuit University in Cleveland, Ohio. It is named after the Most Reverend John Carroll, the first bishop and archbishop of the United States of America. He served as the ordinary of the Archdiocese of Baltimore, Md. Bishop Richard Gilmore, a bishop of Cleveland, conceived the plan to establish the University in 1886 with the Jesuits of the Buffalo Mission. My father, John D. Buckon, a native of Youngstown, Ohio, separated from the Navy at the conclusion of World War II, relocated to Cleveland, and used the G.I. Bill to obtain an education and a diploma from JCU. I followed in dad’s footsteps by matriculating into JCU and then graduated in 1975 with a Bachelor of Science degree in biology. Forty-one years ago, just hours before the commencement, I was commissioned a Second Lieutenant in the Army. JCU prepared me exceptionally well for service to the Nation as an Army officer. I currently serve as a member of JCU’s Board of Directors.
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Academically, the University today consists of the College of Arts and Sciences and the highly acclaimed Boler School of Business. JCU’s Department of Military Science, also known as the Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC), has been an outstanding program within the College of Arts and Sciences since 1950. Archbisop Broglio’s oldest brother, Dr. Anthony ′64 is also an almunus of the ROTC programs. There are currently over 1,100 colleges and universities in the USA that have ROTC programs. Each ROTC program is specific for the Army, the Navy, the Marine Corps and the Air Force. JCU’s Army ROTC program commissions Second Lieutenants (2LT’s) to serve in the Army, the Army Reserve, and the Army National Guard. ROTC began with President Woodrow Wilson signing the National Defense Act in 1916. This year ROTC is celebrating its 100th Anniversary! The Army Cadet Command, located in Fort Knox, KY., is touting the fact that it produces 70 percent of the 2LT’s for the Army’s Active Duty, Reserve, and Guard components. It also is proud to point out that more than 40 percent of current active-duty General Officers were commissioned through the ROTC. These programs are staffed by a cadre of active-duty Officers and Non-Commissioned Officers. A college or university campus will be their place of duty for a couple of years. An estimated 22 – 24 percent of the cadre are Catholic; and they and their families are subjects of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, even though they meld into the local church. Lieutenant Colonel (LTC) Matthew Johnson is currently the Professor of Military Science at JCU. He is a Field Artillery Officer. He stated, “ROTC produces leaders for the nation, exemplifying the “Be (character), Know (competent), and Do (achieves)” components necessary for good leaders within any organization or profession, as found in the military, private, or public sectors.” He went on to say that the JCU ROTC program is extremely successful in developing leaders and producing officers because the ROTC model of development closely resembles the Jesuit ethic and JCU’s mission. Both institutions complement each other in their respective endeavors, beginning with their closely related missions: (continued on page 18) FALL/CHRISTMAS 2016
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A SALUTE ...
(continued from page 17)
The JCU Mission states, “JCU inspires individuals to excel in learning, leadership, and service in the region and in the world.” The JCU ROTC Mission is “educate and train cadets to be adaptive, problem solving, and innovative leaders of character, able to thrive in adversity, with the professional competencies to commission as an officer and for service to the nation.”
JCU not only prepares competent and ethical future leaders to defend our country, it also continues to provide the veterans of our Armed Forces the opportunity for higher education. LTC Eric Patterson, US Army – Retired, serves as JCU’s liaison to the veterans who are students. He said that the Celebration of Service program at JCU has achieved national recognition for its excellence in veteran’s services since 2009, and JCU has been selected by Military Times as a “Best for Vets” College since 2015! In addition to helping veterans maximize their education benefits by participating in the Yellow Ribbon program, Patterson and his team provide one-onone transition support as the student veterans move from the military to higher education, and then to their civilian careers. JCU’s veteran students are successful at achieving high GPA’s, securing competitive internships, and graduating at much higher rates than the national average for student veterans. ( http://sites.jcu.edu/veterans ) It is wonderful to see some of our veterans using their educational benefits to receive a Jesuit Liberal Arts education and go on to successful careers in both the private and public sectors of our society. In May of this year, I attended a JCU Board of Directors meeting. Archbishop Broglio’s visit to the military installations in Alaska enabled me stay throughout the weekend for the Alumni Awards Dinner, the Commissioning of the Second Lieutenants, and the Commencement. As providence would have it, LTC Johnson called me and informed me that the University would like to honor me with my induction into the ROTC Hall of Fame. The Induction into the “Wolfpack” Hall of Fame (HOF) took place on Saturday, 21 May 2016 in conjunction with the Commissioning. Father Robert Niehoff, S.J., the President of JCU, presided over the ceremony. General Carter F. Ham (Ret.), a member of the Wolfpack HOF and a fellow
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(L-R) FR. ROBERT NIEHOFF, GENERAL CARTER HAM, NEWLY COMMISSIONED 2ND LIEUTENANTS, BISHOP BUCKON, LTC MATTHEW JOHNSON
member of the Board of Directors, was the special guest speaker for both the Commissioning and the Induction Ceremonies. His speeches inspired all to greater love of our country and patriotic service. General Ham and I were also inducted into the Army’s National ROTC Hall of Fame on Friday, 10 June 2016 at Fort Knox, KY., as a part of the ROTC centennial celebration. I salute my Alma Mater for the honors bestowed. I cherish the many memories from serving in the Infantry, the Transportation Corps, and the Chaplain Corps, as well as the many friendships while serving in the military. JCU prepared me for service to God and Country by teaching me how to think and shaping my character with Catholic values. I salute my Alma Mater for preparing future military officers by inspiring young men and women cadets, to excel through learning, leadership, and service. Finally, I salute my Alma Mater for making the effort to reach out to the brave men and women who volunteered to serve their country at home and abroad during a contentious time and assist them as they work for a quality education, and a bright promising future. V FALL/CHRISTMAS 2016
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Semper Paratus,
“S
emper Paratus” is the motto of the United States Coast Guard. They are indeed a service that demonstrated their willingness to be always ready. Recently I visited two Coast Guard locations, the Recruit Training Center at Cape May N.J., and Fort Wadsworth in Staten Island, N.Y. Both locations support the vital mission of the Coast Guard, to protect our Nation.
service members. Fondly we refer to the new members as “Coasties.” I had the great pleasure to meet many of them.
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t was a blessing to spend time with several recruits who were a week away from graduation. These outstanding young men and women have made a generous commitment to serve the common good and live out the motto of the Coast Guard to be always ready. Recruit training is very demanding. To those of us who have served in the military know first-hand how challenging military training is mentally and physically.
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he spiritual side is also an important part of their growth as recruits. Father Shaun Brown, an active-duty Navy Chaplain, provides for the spiritual needs of the Catholic (L-R) BISHOP COYLE, MR. AL MORETTI (A BARBER ON BASE AND recruits and all who worship REGULAR MEMBER OF THE SUNDAY CONGREGATION, ALONG at Cape May. As the senior WITH HIS WIFE MADELINE), AND FATHER SHAUN BROWN. chaplain, he ensures every ape May, N.J. is well known as recruit from any faith group is given a longtime vacation spot on the the opportunity to practice his or her Atlantic coast. Here the Coast Guard faith. The Catholic program especially trains recruit classes from all across meets the needs of the recruits and our great land to become future all who serve at the command, both
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always ready BY BISHOP ROBERT J. COYLE
military and civilians. I first enjoyed an overview of the base and then had dinner with several recruits, Father Brown, area clergy, and Father Myles Barrett, a retired Navy Chaplain. The recruits truly enjoyed their dinner. The chow hall does a fine job, but the dinner was very special for all who attended.
in my old jeep, I set up the chapel program that continues to this day.
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he Coast Guard has a unique mission all around the United States. Many local communities are blessed by its presence. After a wonderful Mass and time with those who attended, I was able to move on to another Coast Guard facility.
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ort Wadsworth, located on Staten Island, N.Y., is a beautiful location as well. It is based at the entrance of New York Harbor. This historic fort has hosted many different commands over the years. Now it has the U.S. Coast Guard and the Father Vincent Capodanno Chapel. I first visited Fort Wadsworth in 1996 when the Coast Guard Base located on Governors Island closed down. I then moved the Catholic program over to Staten Island. Moving the statues, tabernacle, and other special items
BISHOP ROBERT J. COYLE GIVING THE HOMILY AT FORT WADSWORTH, STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.
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hatever location we find the Coast Guard, we are greatly blessed to have a dedicated group of individuals who are “Always Ready” to carry out the vital mission of this service. May we pray for the recruits and academy cadets who are answering the call to serve. May we also continue to pray for all activeduty and reserve Coast Guardsmen and their families. Know they are people of faith who are spiritually strengthened to be “Always Ready!” V
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Summer Training
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BY FATHER AIDAN LOGAN, O.C.S.O.
he Co-Sponsored Seminarian Program (CSP) provides a practical framework for men answering the call to the vocation within a vocation of military chaplaincy. The seminarian’s home diocese and the Archdiocese for the Military Services, U.S.A. assume an equal share of his tuition and expenses during the time of his or her formation. In exchange, the seminarian's home diocese agrees that after he has served in a parish for three years, he will serve as an active-duty chaplain for a minimum of five years. All Co-Sponsored Seminarians participate in one of the Chaplain Candidate Programs of the Army, Navy, or Air Force, designed to train seminary students of all faiths to become active-duty, reserve, and National Guard chaplains. Commissioned as 2nd Lieutenants in the Army and Air Force or Ensigns in the Navy, they receive supervised on-the-job experience, branchspecific officer training, and attend one of the three chaplain schools at Fort Jackson, S.C., during one or several summers of their time in the seminary. NAVY CHAPLAIN CANDIDATES L-R, SEAN KOEHR, DEACON SAMUEL SCHNEIDER, FATHER DANIEL SCHWARTZ, DEACON RENEE PELLESSIER, AND DUSTIN SHANE AFTER A SUCCESSFUL SERVICE DRESS BLUE UNIFORM INSPECTION.
This summer six priests and two seminarians took part in the 13-week Army Chaplain Basic Officer Leadership Course (CHBOLC) that includes basic officer training, chaplain training, and a week-long field exercise. Seminarian Jay Horning (Diocese of Fort WayneSouth Bend, Ind.) reports: “This summer of training has been very difficult, but it is something I will always be grateful for. The call to serve soldiers has only been intensified.” Of his experience at the Navy’s Direct Commission Officer Indoctrination Course (DCOIC) in Newport, R.I., seminarian Sean Koehr (Diocese of
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AIR FORCE CO-SPONSORED SEMINARIANS (L TO R) GARRETT BRAUN, MADISON HAYES, AND CHRIS YAKKEL PRAY THE LITURGY OF THE HOURS DURING SUMMER TRAINING.
NAVY CHAPLAIN CANDIDATE FATHER DANIEL SWARTZ SALUTES AT KHAKI INSPECTION. SEMINARIAN DEACON SAMUEL SCHNEIDER IS BY HIS SIDE.
Arlington, Va.) wrote: “We were surrounded by a wealth of professional experience, including: two former SEALs, a Secret Service agent, a Navy diver, and a neurosurgeon.” He noted the impact of the presence of five Chaplin Candidates on the group: “We formed a small Catholic community within the class that would meet every night to celebrate Mass after the day of training. …Our presence on base generated interest in the Sacraments among many of our classmates of different faiths as well as fallen-away Catholics and Catholics from other training programs. The hunger … for authentic spirituality was apparent.” Over on the Air Force side of the house seminarian Madison Hayes (Archdiocese of Anchorage, Ak.) reported to Maxwell AFB, Ala., for the Commissioned Officer Training (COT) program. “Training began just two days after my last final exam at the Saint Paul Seminary, so there was no time to breathe. … It was fun being back in the military atmosphere…, but presented all new challenges which tested my leadership ability and endurance.” Graduating from COT, he went on to Fort Jackson, S.C. and the Chaplain Corps College “…classroom instruction on the unique role of the chaplain in the military, and some of the tensions and challenges marked by this calling…” This was followed by four weeks of traveling to several different bases across the United States. “At each location, we were able to engage with the different units and Airmen who all loved telling us about the different missions they accomplish every day. Overall it was such an amazing experience, getting a taste of how the chaplaincy is able to serve our Airmen, meet their spiritual needs, and advise leadership on how all this helps us to Fly, Fight, and Win!” V FALL/CHRISTMAS 2016
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THE HARVEST CONTINUES...
NAME: Dustin Shane (ARCH)DIOCESE / RELIGIOUS COMMUNITY: Nashville, Tenn. ARMED FORCES BRANCH: USMC RANK: Corporal NAME AND ADDRESS OF COLLEGE(S) / UNIVERSITY(IES) / SEMINARY(IES) ATTENDED (DEGREES AWARDED): Tennessee State University, Nashville, Tenn. (BS in Urban Studies) NAME AND ADDRESSES OF HIGH SCHOOL(S) ATTENDED: Dickson County High School, Dickson, Tenn. 37055 HOBBIES: Running and exercise, history and current events, and theology TEAM SPORTS: Basketball
WHEN WAS THE FIRST TIME YOU THOUGHT YOU MIGHT HAVE A VOCATION TO THE PRIESTHOOD? The first time I took such thoughts seriously was at a Youth 2000 event. I talked to some priests and seminarians at the event and picked up a copy of To Save a Thousand Souls. WHO OR WHAT EVENTS INFLUENCED OR INSPIRED YOU IN YOUR DISCERNMENT JOURNEY? When I began to take my faith seriously again, Father Matthew Perumpally showed extraordinary care and helped me in many ways. The support of my Catholic “family” has truly been “gifts to men” (Eph 4:8). I would say that the main thing that draws me to the priesthood is the splendor of truth, and the realization that Jesus is who He says He is. WHAT WOULD PEOPLE BE SURPRISED TO KNOW ABOUT YOU? That I used to be actually very hostile to religion as a teenager.
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WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SCRIPTURE PASSAGE, WHY? Romans 8:28: “We know that all things work together for good for those who love God, who are called according to his purpose.” It’s foundational for me. Nothing can happen in this world that God can’t use for good, and it’s up to those who “love God” to see that with the eyes of faith. HOW DID YOU COME TO KNOW JESUS CHRIST PERSONALLY? In the Eucharist. I realized what was happening in the Eucharist and why it had this pull on me, and why it seemed to be the very center of the universe. WHAT WERE SOME OF THE SPIRITUAL EVENTS OR ACTIVITIES THAT HELPED YOU DEVELOP AND SHARE YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH CHRIST AND HIS CHURCH? I volunteered with Fraternus. That revealed to me how rewarding sharing the faith with people is, especially young men who are beset by so many challenges as Christians. Listening to them and sharing my experience and the experience of the Church on difficult topics was life-changing. I also sang in the Schola. Singing the ancient chants of the Church immersed me in the beauty of the Gospel like nothing else. WHAT WAS YOUR PROFESSIONAL AND/OR ACADEMIC AND/ OR MILITARY BACKGROUND BEFORE APPLYING TO BE A SEMINARIAN APPLICANT? I spent time in the Marine Corps doing intelligence analysis for infantry battalion 3/8. WHO ARE YOUR HEROES OR PEOPLE YOU SIGNIFICANTLY ADMIRE? St. Paul for his zeal in spreading the Gospel; St. Ignatius of Antioch for his radicalism in embracing his cross; Lt. Gen. Chesty Puller for his commitment to excellence no matter the task. 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? The highlight of my prayer life is Morning and Night prayer from the Liturgy of the Hours, and the Office of Readings. This has been the most enriching thing in my life besides attending daily Mass. V
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MCCW-W Celebrates its 60th Anniversary
BY FATHER JOSEPH DEICHERT
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he Military Council of Catholic Women Worldwide (MCCW-W) gathered for the 60 Anniversary of its inception with a Conference 21-24 April 2016 in Arlington, Va., a stone’s throw from our Nation’s Capital and the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception. A mere three years after Archbishop Timothy Broglio affiliated the MCCW-W with the Archdiocese for Military Services, USA as a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit subsidiary, Elizabeth Tomlin, President of MCCW-W, led the planning and execution of the Conference that welcomed a robust gathering of 250 women from military installations across the globe. The Conference venue featured multiple speakers and break-out sessions, Liturgies at three of the local churches, musical concerts, discernment and installation of a new Board, prayers and fund-raising for Seminarians in formation, and a Mass at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception appropriately concluded a very full, fun, faith-filled weekend with friends old and new.
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Archbishop Broglio launched the Conference with an opening Mass at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church in Arlington. In the homily, the Archbishop welcomed the women, noted the 60th Anniversary, and highlighted the theme “Our Roads Lead Home” taken from the story of Ruth in the Old Testament. The story of Ruth personally inspired him to recall his own beloved mother with the same name. In the Biblical story, Ruth’s decision to stay with Naomi ushered forth the oft quoted “wherever you go, I will go…”, which believers quickly understand as Christ “going wherever we go.” The Archbishop highlighted the various understandings of “home” with special emphasis on our relationship with Christ and the ultimate “home” of each person with God in paradise. The days and events to come clearly invited all to come “home” to Christ. The next days featured keynote contributions from Dr. Edward Sri who presented ideas for a vibrant faith in today’s secular world along and reflections on the faith journey with Mary. In addition, Donna Marie Cooper O’Boyle visited the topics of Jesus leading us home with mercy, love, and joy amidst heartache and pain. Further, a centerpiece of the MCCW-W continues to be Journey of Faith, a formation program for Catholic Women of the Chapel across the globe. These were interspersed with a robust menu of breakout sessions designed to bring new ideas and resources to local chapel programs. Liturgies at our Lady of Lourdes which included Daily Mass, Eucharistic Adoration, and the Sacrament of Reconciliation were moments of particular grace, bringing the hearts and souls of all “home with the Lord and with each other.” Additional Liturgies included Masses at the Historic Church of St. Joseph in Alexandria and at the Basilica of the National Shrine of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception, where Bishop Neal Buckon, Episcopal Moderator of MCCW-W, concluded the Conference. Dennis and Julie Carrick along with Michael Poirier further prospered all these graced moments with spirit filled music ministry. Throughout the Conference days, a silent auction featuring diverse gifts from chapel communities raised an astounding $10,000.00 for the AMS (continued on page 28) FALL/CHRISTMAS 2016
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MCCW Anniversary continued... Co-Sponsorship Program. Included in that collective effort an anonymous donation of $1,500.00 appeared virtually to double the generous outpouring of the last conference two years ago! Those generous gifts underscore the MCCW-W commitment to vocations and will assist Archbishop Broglio as he provides priests for tomorrow’s Catholic Communities. Archbishop Broglio installed the newly discerned MCCW-W Board during the Saturday Evening Vigil Mass at St. Joseph Church in Alexandria, Va., In this historic Church while celebrating the Fifth Sunday of Easter, he referenced the “new heaven and new earth” of the Paschal Mystery, emphasizing the importance of each individual to make a difference. The new heaven and new earth depends upon each of us. With a clear charge given all, he then installed Michelle Nash as the new President of MCCW-W along with her board members for the upcoming two-year term. Along with Vice-presidents Sandy Goetz and Muffy Patterson, Michelle enthusiastically assumed the leadership to take the MCCW-W to new and L-R: HEATHER JOHNSON (SECRETARY), MUFFY greater heights of service to Christ and PATERSON (VICE PRESIDENT, JOURNEY OF to the Catholic Communities. She aptly FAITH), MICHELLE NASH (PRESIDENT), SANDY expressed her passion going forward that GOETZ (VICE PRESIDENT FOR EVENTS), AIMEE “in our weariness we bring people to MILLER (FINANCE MANAGER). Christ…as ambassadors of the AMS on behalf of Pope Francis…we are fishermen throwing out the nets for Christ.” Her forward-leaning vision includes broadening the scope and influence of the MCCW-W, forming spiritually resilient women and families, supporting the vision of the priests, and supporting the seminarians.
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Father Paul Hurley, Army Chief of Chaplains, graced the Conference both during the concelebrated installation Mass and as the keynote speaker during the Saturday banquet. He captured the attention of all with the story of St. John Vianney, patron of priests. He further endeared himself to all with his fervent support of MCCW-W and the hope to have many, many more priests attend the MCCW-W Conference. In addition to Father Hurley, the immediate past President, Elizabeth Tomlin, further graced the banquet with a recap of the past two years. These were very formative years as the MCCW-W transitioned to the current affiliation with the AMS. Mrs. Tomlin highlighted the wonderful gift of serving Christ even during the sometimes arduous and very frugal beginnings. She exhorted the ladies to remember whom we serve and why. The fruits of her stellar leadership the past two years include the inauguration of multiple new Catholic Women of the Chapel satellite programs through the Journey of Faith formation, the grounding of MCCW-W fiscally with current budget balances exceeding $20,000, and the culminating highlight of this Conference which found 250 women at home with the Lord and each other—an astounding doubling of the attendance of the 2014 Conference in Chattanooga, Tenn. Bishop Buckon aptly topped the Conference during the closing Mass when he concluded his homily with St. Therese of Lisieux’s words, “I have a vocation and my vocation is to love in all places and at all times,” encouraging the women to let love be their vocation as well. After the celebration of the Mass, some of the women went in search of the Shrine's "Door of Mercy" and passed through this door as Pope Francis has exhorted all Catholics to do, and all went home, that is, all were at home in Christ. Following the closing Mass, while most were on their way home, Michelle Nash convened the new MCCW-W Board to begin the planning for the way ahead. Further details about Journey of Faith, MCCW-W key personnel, and regional opportunities are available (http://www.mccw.org). In addition, visit “The Well” (www.mccw.org) for periodic article updates and plan now to attend the next MCCW-W Regional Retreats and certainly the next MCCW-W Conference in San Diego, CA, 19-22 April 2018. V
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Making the AMS Your
“CHARITY of CHOICE” BY MARY LAVIN
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o you consider the AMS a “charity of choice?” In other words, do you think about the mission and ministry of the AMS when
considering an annual or year-end donation? Most people have limited resources, and as time goes on, choose a select number of organizations to support annually or long-term. These organizations essentially become one’s “charities of choice”. In today’s world, there is no shortage of requests for support from nonprofit organizations across the country and around the world, many with missions and ministries that make a real impact. Most nonprofit organizations have made it easier than ever to make a gift with the help of technology, while there are still many who prefer to mail a check. No matter the vehicle for the donation, today’s gifting decisions are more thoughtful and matter to both the individual donor and to the non-profit organization counting on an annual gift, a campaign pledge, an online donation or a planned gift. The fervent hope of the AMS is that you will make it, or keep it, as one of your “charities of choice”.
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The Combined Federal Campaign (CFC) refers to a donor’s “charity of choice” in its promotional materials. The CFC is the only authorized solicitation of Federal employees – military and civilian - in their workplaces. The CFC, on behalf of approved charitable organizations, raises funds for eligible non-profit organizations that provide health and human service benefits throughout the world. For many years, the AMS has been an approved CFC charity, receiving donations from individuals and local CFC Campaigns across the Country. Unfortunately, the AMS was denied as a charitable organization for the 2016 CFC Campaign that took place this fall due to a clerical error. It is the intention of the AMS to submit an application for inclusion in the 2017 CFC Campaign knowing that it is a convenient way for many AMS faithful to participate in the Campaign and to support the AMS at the same time. In the
meantime, if you are a Federal employee and the AMS is in fact your “charity of choice”, online gifts can made at www.milarch.org/ donate or a check can be mailed in the envelope found in this issue of Salute. The full amount of the donation will be received by the AMS with no percentage of fees deducted for overhead costs. If the AMS is your “charity of choice,” you will be pleased to know that dioceses across the United States took a second collection for the AMS at Masses the weekend of 5-6 November 2016. Approved by the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops in 2012, the first National Collection for the AMS was taken in November 2013. The list of (arch) dioceses participating in the second triennial collection for the AMS in 2016 may be found at www.milarch. org/nationalcollection. While most U.S. dioceses will participate in the triennial collection, in November or at a later date, the fact is a number
did not. Much like the 2016 CFC Campaign, members of dioceses where the Collection was not taken can still make the AMS a “charity of choice” and make a gift directly at www.milarch.org/nationalcollection or by writing “National Collection” on the memo line of a check. Life is about choices. For those who choose the AMS as a personal “charity of choice,” be assured that there will continue to be more than one way you can make a gift. Thank you for your continued prayers for an increase in vocations to the priesthood and military chaplaincy, keeping in mind the words of His Excellency, the Most Reverend Timothy P. Broglio, “It is in the celebration of penance, the anointing of the Sick, and the Holy Eucharist that the specificity of the Catholic Chaplain is made manifest. Were this Archdiocese to offer nothing else, to provide priests for that purpose alone would justify her existence.” V
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HONOR AND SACRIFICE
Medal of Honor Recipients Join Congregation at Memorial Mass for Father Vincent Capodanno 32
BY TAYLOR HENRY
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n 6 September, just two days after Pope Francis inscribed Mother Teresa of Calcutta in the list of saints, Catholics gathered at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, D.C., to remember another outstanding Christian role model and candidate for canonization: Vietnam War hero and U.S. Navy Chaplain Father Vincent R. Capodanno, M.M.
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mong those in the congregation of 450 attending the annual memorial Mass were two other extraordinary American heroes: Col. Walter Joseph "Joe" Marm, USA, Ret., and Senior Chief Edward “Ed” Carl Byers, Jr., USN. Like Father Capodanno, both earned the Medal of Honor, the nation’s highest military decoration, for “conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of life above and beyond the call of duty.”
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ol. Marm received the Medal on 19 December 1966 for taking a bullet in the jaw while single-handedly attacking an enemy position at the 1965 Battle of Ia Drang, the first major battle of the Vietnam War. Father Capodanno received the Medal posthumously on 7 January 1969 after he was killed in action on 4 September 1967 while aiding U.S. Marines under enemy ambush in Vietnam’s Quế Sơn Valley.
Chief Byers, a Navy Seal, received the Medal on 29 February 2016 for his role in the daring 2012 rescue of an American doctor held hostage by the Taliban in Afghanistan.
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ol. Marm and Chief Byers, both devout Catholics, thus share spiritual camaraderie with Father Capodanno, whom the Catholic Church in May 2006 declared a Servant of God, formally initiating his Cause for beatification and canonization. The Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA (AMS), is the Promoter of his Cause.
“I
give his Holy Card to friends who are sick and dying,” said Col. Marm on the front steps of the Basilica before the Mass. “He was there for the Marines he served with, and he comforted the wounded.” Speaking from personal experience of combat, Col. Marm said, “Having a priest to say (continued on page 34)
MEDAL OF HONOR RECIPIENTS COL. JOE MARM, USA, RET., (LEFT) AND SENIOR CHIEF ED BYERS, JR., USN, (RIGHT) AT THE BASILICA OF THE NATIONAL SHRINE FOR THE ANNUAL MEMORIAL MASS FOR FATHER VINCENT CAPODANNO ON 6 SEPTEMBER 2016. FALL/CHRISTMAS 2016
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HONOR and SACRIFICE... Mass for you before battle is very comforting. It’s very comforting for a Soldier, no matter what his religion, to have a chaplain. It’s like having your Battalion Commander with you.”
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y the time of the ambush that took his life during a Marine offensive called “Operation Swift,” Father Capodanno had been serving in the Navy Chaplain Corps for nearly two years, and he had gained a reputation for his exceptional pastoral concern for the Marine enlistees, or "grunts," who did the heavy lifting of war. His remarkable life story is recounted in The Grunt Padre (CMJ Marian) by Father Daniel L. Mode, a U.S. Navy Chaplain currently serving on active-duty with AMS endorsement and faculties.
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that was so unpopular across much of our nation. He died ministering to them on that field, and that's just the greatest form of sacrifice. I thought the story was so inspiring.”
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is Excellency, the Most Reverend Timothy P. Broglio, Archbishop for the Military Services, USA, was the principal celebrant and homilist at the Mass, carried live by EWTN and Catholic TV. In his homily, Archbishop Broglio reminded the faithful that Father Capodanno’s decision “to be a man for others”—one who brought “mercy and consolation to the afflicted and tried”—was not a spur-of-the-moment act. Rather, it was a “confirmation” of prayer, practice, preparation, and the grace of God to fulfill a Christian calling. Archbishop Broglio raised hope that Father Capodanno’s “powerful example” will “confirm us in our faith, inspire our decisions to make a difference in our world, and lead us to share in eternal life.”
t was from reading Father Mode’s book around the year 2000 that Chief Byers learned the details of Father Capodanno’s sacrifice for God and Country, long before his s far as Col. Joe Marm and own heroic deeds in Afghanistan Chief Ed Byers are concerned, earned him a place in the Pentagon’s Archbishop Broglio was “preaching Hall of Heroes. “His story was just to the choir.” so inspiring,” Chief Byers said, “because of the fact that he was a priest serving those fighting a war
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s we gather to pray for the repose of the soul of Father Capodanno we also long to see his name inscribed in the album of saints. I had to smile when I read the headline of a well-known national newspaper: ‘Pope Francis to make Mother Teresa saint.’ No, that is not in his job description. He inscribed her name in the album, the list, of saints. God opened His ‘arms’ to welcome her into heaven, because she corresponded to His loving call. It is our earnest hope that Father Capodanno’s name will one day be inscribed in that same album so that he can be held up as a model for believers everywhere. That is also a part of our prayer this evening. In fact, everyone is invited to invoke his intercession for particular needs. The positive response is then eventually used in the process to confirm his presence in heaven.” V – Archbishop Broglio in homily at the Father Capodanno Memorial Mass, 6 September 2016.
SALUTE MAGAZINE HONORED WITH AWARDS FROM THE CATHOLIC PRESS ASSOCIATION By Taylor Henry
The Catholic Press Association honored SALUTE Magazine with two awards on 3 June 2016 at the organization’s annual awards banquet in St. Louis, Mo. The Christmas 2015 edition received a Second Place award for Best Seasonal Issue. The Summer 2015 edition, featuring a cover photograph of a United States flag draped over the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception for the 21st Annual Memorial Mass, received an Honorable Mention for Best Cover. SALUTE is the quarterly news magazine of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA (AMS). Edited by Ms. Jo Ann Redmond, SALUTE has a circulation of approximately 50,000 worldwide. The Catholic Press Association represents 319 newspapers, magazines, newsletters, freelance journalists and other member publishers throughout the United States and Canada. This year’s contest winners were chosen among FALL/CHRISTMAS 2016 | 2,451 press submissions in 255 categories.
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Labor Day Weekend Brings Future Laborers for the Vineyard to D.C. BY TAYLOR HENRY
AMS PRIESTS AND CO-SPONSORED SEMINARIANS ATTENDING THE BARBECUE SERVED BY THE KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS ON FRIDAY, 2 SEPTEMBER 2016, AT THE EDWIN CARDINAL O’BRIEN PASTORAL CENTER.
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hirty-four prospective Catholic military chaplains gathered in the nation’s capital over the Labor Day weekend for a three-day celebration of prayer, reflection, and fraternity sponsored by the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA (AMS). The group comprised seminarians from all over the United States, nearly all participating in the “Co-Sponsored Seminarian Program,” a vocations partnership between the AMS and cooperating dioceses. The AMS is counting on the seminarians to fill a growing shortage of Catholic priests on active duty, who are reaching retirement faster than they can be replaced. The number has dropped from more than 400 in 2001 to around 207 today. While Catholics make up 25% of the U.S. military, Catholic priests now account for only 8% of chaplains. Vocations Director Father Aidan Logan, O.C.S.O., said that “these men from all across our nation and every branch of the Armed Forces are the future of Catholic Military Chaplaincy. Ten years from now, God willing, they will
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all be on active-duty serving those who serve in every corner of the world. Though our need for chaplains is desperate, their generous response to God’s call is a sign of hope and confidence for the future. I look forward to visiting them at their respective seminaries during the coming academic year.” The chaplain candidates spent an active weekend. Friday Evening Prayer preceded a barbeque served by the Knights of Columbus at the Edwin Cardinal O’Brien Pastoral Center. Archbishop Timothy P. Broglio celebrated a Saturday morning Mass in the crypt of the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception. Concelebrants included Auxiliary Bishop Richard B. Higgins, Episcopal Vicar for Veterans Affairs; Monsignor John J.M. Foster, Vicar General and Moderator of the Curia; Father Christopher Armstrong, Judicial Vicar; Father Logan O.C.S.O., and chaplain recruiters from each service branch: Father Daniel Goulet, CH (CPT), USA; Father Benton Garrett, CHC, LT, USN; and Father Thomas Foley, Ch Capt USAF. The weekend concluded with a Sunday morning visit to Joint Base Andrews where Archbishop Broglio celebrated Mass in the base chapel with the same concelebrants along with the Catholic base chaplain, Father Joseph Hoang. For the seminarians—all in various stages of priestly formation and many with previous military experience—it was an opportunity to get to know each other better and learn more about the vocation within a vocation that they share: serving those who serve the nation in uniform. As of this school year, the population of co-sponsored seminarians stands at 37 enrolled in 19 seminaries throughout the U.S. and in Rome. The numbers reflect steady growth since 2008, when the number of cosponsored seminarians stood at just seven. The AMS attributes the growth to establishment of its own Vocations Office combined with the support of U.S. bishops, leading to increased awareness and discernment opportunities for men considering priesthood and chaplaincy. The AMS, which receives no government funding, is looking for ways to fund a fast-rising seminary bill, projected at roughly $3 million over the next five years alone. Donations can be made at www.milarch.org/donate. V FALL/CHRISTMAS 2016
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Jubilee for the Military
BY FATHER JOHN BATEMAN (PICTURED ABOVE LEFT)
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iving in Rome, the Extraordinary Jubilee for Mercy is EVER present: signs with the Jubilee logo all over the city: "Rome for the Jubilee"; CONSTANT crowds walking a special pathway up the Via Conciliazione to St. Peter's Square ending with a journey through the Holy Door; many weekends there are different groups celebrating the Jubilee with the Holy Father. April 29 - May 1, the Jubilee of Mercy celebration, was for the members of the Military, Police and their families. As a diocesan priest (Harrisburg, Pa.) and a chaplain in the Pennsylvania Air National Guard living and working in Rome (with Cardinal O’Brien), I was privileged to be able to attend this special Jubilee for Military together with Bishop Spencer. It started with a conference celebrating the 30th anniversary of the publication of the Apostolic Constitution "Spirituali Militum Curae" which established the Military Ordinariates - making them Dioceses in their own right. The conference was attended by bishops, chiefs of chaplains, defense ministers and military members from around the world and was planned by the Holy See to show participants the various ways countries take care of the spiritual needs of their military members. The history and purpose of military chaplaincy is all about Evangelization. For the first four Centuries after Christ there were no military chaplains. But after the legalization of the Catholic faith by the Emperor Constantine in the 4th Century, the Church quickly organized an order of chaplains because she recognized the need to minister to soldiers - with the goal of maintaining and establishing peace.
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The Jubilee of Mercy for military was an expression of the New Evangelization so often spoken about by Pope Saint John Paul II. One of the presenters joined the military mission and God’s mercy saying, “The heart of God heals the misery of man; and man's heart, drawn close to God, is restored.” This is the reality of our Faith, which we military chaplains strive to help soldiers and their families realize by experiencing God's heart - which heals all human misery. As members the military, we have a particular identity - certainly as a citizen of the USA and as part of our branch of service - but we also need to realize our deepest identity as a child of God and member of the Church – giving us a true sense of belonging. Mercy, this Year reminds us, is an encounter. In the military, our encounters are often with those who are suffering. Whatever the situation we enter, we are often the first people who come in contact with the civilian population. It is here in these encounters that people are able to experience God’s mercy through the mission and ministry of all of us in the military. It is important we recognize our role in being this moment of “encounter.” I am ever grateful to God for this special opportunity to serve our men and women in the military and be the “visible reminder of the Holy” and, hopefully, a moment of encounter with God’s Mercy. V
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Est. 2013
P.O. Box 29424 1025 Michigan Avenue, N.E. Washington D.C. 20017
Serv ant of God
Due to the demands of assembling the materials for the Cause of Beatification of
Father Vincent R. Capodanno, M.M., the Closing of the Diocesan Phase has been postponed to Spring 2017.
Some exciting news to share from the Father Capodanno Guild: www.capodannoguild.org/called-and-chosen FALL/CHRISTMAS 2016
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Planting Seeds of Faith BY JOSÉ AMAYA
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n the Post-Synodal Apostolic Exhortation Amoris Laetitia (The Joy of Love), Pope Francis reminds us that “families are not a problem; they are first and foremost an opportunity” (no. 7). Families are opportune fertile ground for making disciples and evangelists. The family is at the heart of the vision of faith formation in this global Archdiocese. The Archdiocese has assisted in forming catechists to proclaim Jesus Christ not only to the youth and children, but also to the whole family. Since November 2016, the Office of Faith Formation has facilitated catechist trainings at Goodfellow AFB, Patrick AFB, Minot AFB, Edwards AFB, Port Hueneme joined by Los Angeles AFB and Twenty-nine Palms and Gulfport in collaboration with Keesler AFB. These leaders who have responded to a call to teach the Catholic faith to adults, youth, and children received intensive training on Forming Disciples for the New Evangelization: Archdiocesan Religion Curriculum Guide, theAMS Family Faith Assessment and Lesson Planning. In addition to these on-site training visits, catechists and adults in the Catholic faith community may take online courses through the AMS partnerships with the University of Dayton’s Virtual Learning PORT HUENEME NAVAL BASE GROUP. Community for Faith Formation and Catholic Distance University. Both opportunities lead to certified catechists who have seriously thought and prayed about how best to serve those they are called to teach. “The family is called to join in daily prayer, to read the word of God and to share in Eucharistic communion, and thus to grow in
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love and become ever more fully a temple in which the Spirit dwells” (The Joy of Love, no. 29). The visits to the installations afford opportunities to meet with military families to offer an orientation and overview GOODFELLOW, AFB CATECHISTS WITH JOSÉ AMAYA (FAR RIGHT). of the AMS Religion Curriculum Guide and the Family Faith Assessment. Parents are reminded to take to heart their call to teach the faith to their children. The Parent Segments of the curriculum guide and the Assessment process are starting points that help parents stay connected to what their children are learning. This overview enables family discussions about faith that would otherwise not take place. Our Holy Father affirms, “all Christian formation consists of entering more deeply into the kerygma” (no 58), that is, the proclamation of the message of Jesus Christ. In effect, “the Church is a family of families” (The Joy of Love, no. 87). The Synod of Bishops on the Family and the World Meeting of Families in Philadelphia buttressed the decision to formulate the AMS Family Faith Assessment, to place an engaging tool into the hands of families that may be used online. This process takes into account the immediate support that the religious education program provides to families at the installation. Parents appreciate that the process begins with a Family Assessment in the fall, offers continuous ‘Family Play’ throughout the year, and leads to the Student Assessment in late spring. Each online question is linked to the Catechism of the Catholic Church, the Bible or an online resource to deepen the faith. Over fifty percent of 207 installations with faith formation programs are inviting families to use the Assessment. Do you know a family who could benefit from the Assessment process? Contact the Coordinator of Religious Education at your military installation to learn more. (continued on page 42) FALL/CHRISTMAS 2016
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Planting Seeds of Faith...
(continued from page 41)
This would not be a comprehensive update without mentioning that approximately 200 catechists and clergy from installations around the Archdiocese attended the Mid-Atlantic Congress in Baltimore, Md. and Los Angeles Religious Education Congress (LAREC) in Anaheim, Calif. this past February. Participants enjoyed dinner with Archbishop Timothy P. Broglio at both locations. The Archbishop addressed those present with the theme, “Proclaim God’s Mercy with Joy”. This presentation that inspired catechetical leaders on both coasts is available on the AMS USA App under mercy. Your prayers and support ensure that the seeds of faith are planted in the heart of the family supported by well-formed catechists and quality faith formation resources. Keep praying for families who are continually engaged in the catechetical process year round. V
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U.S. MILITARY AND FELLOW PILGRIMS READY TO BEGIN THEIR JOURNEY TO THE WYD 2016 VIGIL AT CAMPUS MISERICORDIAE.
WORLD YOUTH DAY 2016 Blest are the Merciful BY CASEY BUSTAMANTE
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lest are the merciful. Blest are the merciful. For it is mercy that shall be shown to those who show mercy. This is the refrain from the World Youth Day (WYD) 2016 theme song, inspired by the Beatitudes in scripture. The theme of mercy was appropriate for not only the Extraordinary Jubilee of Mercy but also the history of Poland, the host country for the most recent WYD. (continued on page 44) FALL/CHRISTMAS 2016
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WORLD YOUTH DAY ...
(continued from page 43)
From 23 July to 1 August of this year, I joined 14 other U.S. service members on the Military WYD Pilgrimage, hosted by the Polish Military Ordinary, along with participants from 11 other NATO countries. The pilgrimage was a journey through Poland’s religious and political history as well as a testament to the real presence of God’s mercy in the world. We began the trip with Days in the Diocese, which was a series of trips out of Warsaw to visit significant Polish sites (Czestoçhowa and Auschwitz) as well as a few historical museums. The first-hand witness of these landmarks made the many tragedies and sufferings of the Polish people a reality for the pilgrims. It brought to light the significance of St. John Paul II’s message on human dignity and his support of St. Faustina Kowalska’s recalling of the Divine Mercy message. The Polish people are truly a resilient people. There is something everyone can learn from their history—the steadfastness of faith and pilgrimage. The Polish cadets of the Military University of Technology in Warsaw shared that it is tradition for the Polish youth to pilgrimage to Czestoçhowa right before their last year of secondary school. I was trying to imagine a 200+ mile hike versus the mere 7-10 miles we walked each day during World Youth Day. The trip continued on as we made our transition to Kraków for the WYD events. Pilgrimage truly brings one to a place where they are not only challenged, but confronted, with many opportunities to grow in virtue. At WYD, everyone is tired, eager to see the Pope, excited to take in as much as they could of the new city they were visiting. Alas, the days are short. Getting from the Papal Welcome, at Blonia Park, to the AMS Military Pilgrim Mass, in southern Krakow at the St. John Paul II Sanctuary, might take three hours. Boarding the tram often required pilgrims to wait for the second or third tram due to packed carts. There were plenty of moments to be frustrated and angry. But then I was reminded, “I am here with other pilgrims, who are all here for the same reason. Pilgrims come to WYD to celebrate the joy of being Catholic and to give praise to Jesus.” The discomfort was Christ’s invitation to look toward the ‘other’ and practice charity.
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On Friday, the U.S. military group decided to go to the Divine Mercy Sanctuary, near St. Faustina’s convent. There, we sang the Divine Mercy Chaplet as we walked around the grounds and waited for daily Mass at noon. We were informed all the chapels in the crypt of the Sanctuary would have Mass on the hour. Unfortunately, we were only able to find Mass in African-French and, with no exaggeration, all the chapels felt like hot saunas. Here we were again, in a place of physical discomfort with no real understanding of the language. It turned out to be one of the most authentic experiences of worship most of us had experienced. The music and celebration in the Mass was overpowering. Afterward, when the pilgrims reunited, the joy and amazement we each had experienced was evident from our faces. The final two days of WYD continued in like manner and remain with my fellow military pilgrims and me as we continue to process the powerful moments of prayer and the friendships that were made with Catholics from around the world. A couple of the AMS pilgrims shared comments on their WYD experience as well: “I am so grateful I had the opportunity to participate in the MIL WYD experience. It was wonderful being able to experience the universal church with the U.S. and NATO pilgrims. Our Polish hosts ROCKED!” – Katie Grieshop, Captain, USAFR “World Youth Day with the Archdiocese for the Military Services provided a unique opportunity to interact with the universal Church on pilgrimage with fellow servicemen. I'm grateful for the opportunity to have met new friends and experience the culture and charity demonstrated by our host country. Participating in several multilingual Masses helped show how we as Catholics come together across national boundaries, cultures, and languages to worship Jesus.” – Tom Pressley, Captain, USAF V FALL/CHRISTMAS 2016
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Adolescent
CATECHESIS
BY MARK MOITOZA, VICE-CHANCELLOR FOR EVANGELIZATION
Archbishop Timothy P. Broglio has promulgated Forming Disciples for the New Evangelization, Archdiocesan Religion Curriculum Guide, Adolescent Catechesis: Grades 9 to 12 to be fully implemented on 6 August 2016. The purpose of this guide is to provide a standard instrument for ensuring that the faith is taught in a complete, systematic, and consistent way in the Catholic faith communities of the Archdiocese.
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dolescent Catechesis recognizes the unique stages of faith development that occur in the high school years. Effective Catholic youth ministry models, therefore, incorporate a comprehensive approach that relies on the gifts of the Catholic Church,
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Ad
t n e c s e l o
S I S E H C E T A C
values service opportunities as a way to learn, and recognizes the necessity of adult mentors who offer healthy models of living as a disciple of Christ today. The standards and indicators of the Adolescent Curriculum guide clearly state what adolescents in every military Catholic faith community should know, understand, and do over a four-year process throughout the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA.
All gatherings of young people in the Church have a catechetical component. It is incumbent upon directors, coordinators, catechists, and youth ministry leaders to review the curriculum guide in order to develop effective lesson plans that will inspire youth and their families to grow in faith. The topics of the guide have been broken into four-year segments since it is typical to group high school youth together for youth ministry gatherings. This approach allows high school age youth to connect with all of the themes of the Adolescent Catechesis curriculum guide over a four-year process. It also enables a variety of Catholic youth ministry models and/or high school religious education models to help young people in various grades interact effectively with the required standards and indicators. A variety of Catholic resources, textbooks, retreats, as well as social and service opportunities offer creative ways to enhance catechetical moments that encourage a deeper understanding of the Catholic faith. The curriculum guide starts off with Year One topics that include: Divine Revelation, Tradition, Sacred Scripture. Life in the Church, Who Is Jesus Christ?, Incarnation, Created in God’s Image, Jesus Teaches Us to Pray, Discipleship, and Jesus Teaches Us to Live. The standards and indicators are linked to these topics to enhance effective integration. Likewise correlations to Catholic high school resources and texts will be made available on the AMS website. Parent segments are provided to encourage conversation and prayer at home. These segments support parents who serve as the primary catechists to their children. In preparation or the coming catechetical year all are invited to become familiar with the curriculum guide on the AMS website, http://www.milarch.org/curriculum. V FALL/CHRISTMAS 2016
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“As we approach another celebration of the birth of our Savior, I pray that the Prince of Peace will fill your hearts with serenity and inspire all people to work for lasting justice.” – Archbishop Timothy P. Broglio
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