Salute - Spring 2016

SPRING 2016

THE MAGAZINE OF THE ARCHDIOCESE FOR THE MILITARY SERVICES , USA

St. Elijah Monastery S t. E lijah M onastery Easter Vigil Mass being E aster V igil M ass b eing ccelebrated elebrated w ith U .S. s oldiers, C OB M arez, IIraq raq with U.S. soldiers, COB Marez, 3A pril 2 010 April 2010

Dear Friends of the Archdiocese for the Military Services,

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inter was late, but it made its presence felt. Poor unprepared Washington was hit with 21 inches of snow on 22 and 23 January, but the cadets from West Point, some active-duty military personnel, intrepid members of the AMS staff, thousands of others, and I marched in favor of life!

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ow those days are merely a memory as we celebrate the Lord’s Resurrection and welcome the signs of rebirth in our midst.

The Lord is good and He does care for us. The beauty of the rebirth in creation reminds us of His care.

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t the same time, two events this spring invite us to look backwards and give thanks. One quarter century ago Bishop Robert Coyle and Monsignor John Foster promised life-long service to the Church and wereordained priests.

Rockville Centre and Stockton—opposite ends of our country have given the AMS a zealous Auxiliary Bishop and an extraordinary Vicar General. Join me in thanking Almighty God for their ministry and begging Him to give us many more years of service.

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s always, this issue of Salute will recount some examples of the vibrancy of this global Archdiocese, introduce you to a new seminarian, and recall some great stories from the past.

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pring brings the culmination of the RCIA process, the joy of the annual participation in the International Military Pilgrimage to Lourdes, and many confirmations and First Holy Communions. It is also the time of graduation, the annual Memorial Mass, and the ordinations of co-sponsored priests and deacons. Be sure to remember all of these good people in your prayers.

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s we celebrate the central events of our salvation history, it is my pleasure to wish all of you an abundance of Easter blessings on behalf of my brother bishops, the clergy, religious, and staff of the Archdiocese, as well as, of the priests who minister so selflessly among the men and women in uniform, those in VA facilities, and their families.

Invoking abundant divine blessings upon all of you, I remain Sincerely in the Risen Lord,

Most Reverend Timothy P. Broglio Archbishop

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THE MAGAZINE OF THE ARCHDIOCESE FOR THE MILITARY SERVICES, USA VOLUME 10. NUMBER 1 SPRING /EASTER 2016

TA B L E

of

CONTENTS

4 Planes, Trains, Snow, Automobiles, and Camels?

Archbishop Timothy P. Broglio 8 “Just Go See the Priest” Bishop Richard B. Higgins 10 A Spiritual Glide Path Towards Easter 2016 Bishop F. Richard Spencer 12 Arizona In January Bishop Neal J. Buckon 14 Reflections Bishop Robert J. Coyle 18 The Harvest Continues Patrick Costello 24 Archdiocese to Hold Spring & Fall Discernment Retreats for Ordained Priests Considering Military Chaplaincy Taylor Henry 26 ISIS Destroys Iraq’s Oldest Christian Monastery Taylor Henry 28 Catholics on Deployment to Iraq Have Christmas Mass Thanks to U.S. Navy Priest Chaplain Volunteer Taylor Henry 30 Re-opening & Rededication National Purple Heart Hall of Honor James R. Formato 38 St. Bernard of Clairvaux and Christian Knighthood Father Aidan Logan, O.C.S.O. 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.

SPRING 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: Development Office, Archdiocese for

the Military Services, P.O. Box 4469, Washington, D.C. 20017-0469 Feedback, letters to the editor editor@milarch.org | Website: www.milarch.org cover: Easter Mass at St. Elijah Monastery, Mosul Iraq photo by: Staff Sgt. Russell Lee Klika

St. S t. E Elijah Monastery lijah M onastery Easter Vigil E aster V igil Mass Mass being being celebrated celebrated w ith U .S. s oldiers, C OB M arez, IIraq raq with U.S. soldiers, COB Marez, April 2010 2010 3 April

ARCHBISHOP TIMOTHY P. BROGLIO

MONSIGNOR JOHN J.M. FOSTER

JO ANN REDMOND

ERIC NEUNER

MAXWELL STROUD

President

Editorial Director

Editor

Creative Director

Design Director

© 2016 - A PUBLICATION OF THE ARCHDIOCESE FOR THE MILITARY SERVICES, USA - SERVING CATHOLICS IN THE ARMY, NAVY, AIR FORCE, MARINE CORPS, COAST GUARD, VA MEDICAL CENTERS, AND GOVERNMENT SERVICES OVERSEAS.

By ARCHBISHOP TIMOTHY P. BROGLIO

PLANES, TRAINS, SNOW, AUTOMOBILES, AND CAMELS?

ou know my place of composition changes constantly, but frequently I am in an airport or on board a plane. Being held captive sometimes forces the creative juices to relay some aspect of ministry to the faithful of an archdiocese without borders!

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ARCHBISHOP TIMOTHY P. BROGLIO FEEDING A CAMEL WHILE IN BAHRAIN VISITING WITH THE TROOPS AND FATHER LES SIKORSKI.

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ARCHBISHOP TIMOTHY P. BROGLIO (CENTER) WITH BRIG GEN BARRE SEGUIN (LEFT) AND THE MOSAIC ARTIST (RIGHT) STANDING ON THE MOSAIC THAT WILL DECORATE THE SHRINE OF OUR LADY OF KNOCK IN IRELAND.

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s I write these lines, I have just gotten off a train from Washington to Newark Airport. The abundant snowfall has overwhelmed Washington more than usual, but there is a plane out of Newark that will allow me to get to the Bahrain Naval Station in time for confirmation on Tuesday evening. The train ride was beautiful—snow everywhere and a general quiet.

As is the frequent custom of airlines, Lufthansa kept pushing the departure time later into the night and my margin for the connecting flight in Frankfurt kept shrinking. Finally around midnight the giant 747 lumbered into the air and I began to hope that the pilot might “catch up” a bit.

The flight to Bahrain was boarding when we touched down at the massive (continued on page 6) spring / easter 2016 |

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PLANES, TRAINS, SNOW, AUTOMOBILES, AND CAMELS? (continued from page 5)

ARCHBISHOP TIMOTHY P. BROGLIO WITH THE RIGHT TO LIFE MARCHERS, IN WASHINGTON, D.C., 22 JANUARY 2016.

Frankfurt airport. I began my determined march from terminal Z to terminal B. I always wonder if you can get a discount for the portion of the flight that you walk! Thus far my research has been less than fruitful in that regard.

Another security check (despite the fact that the airport does not sell weapons in the area that I traversed – to the best of my knowledge and with an admittedly cursory appraisal) and I almost walked past the gate. However, they were still loading the steerage section of the plane (where my seat was located) and so I had no worries. I was on time and the confirmation was not at risk.

At any rate, the AMS is great at improvising. My Christmas plans were altered more frequently than some first ladies changed shoes! The initial plans had me in Hungary.

That was switched to Estonia. Then I learned that I would arrive in Tallinn one day and my faithful would leave the next. I was afraid

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that someone might interpret the sequence as cause and effect.

The final plan was delightful. I made a pastoral visit to the faithful assigned to Aviano Air Base in Italy. As you may have guessed, Italy is an easy place for me to visit.

I lived there for 19 years! It is also my first Christmas in an ostensibly Christian environment since 2007! Add to that recipe the presence of an excellent host, Father Robert Monagle (Boston, Air Force), and you have a wonderful celebration of Christmas!

The days in the Veneto region allowed me to celebrate the Eucharist with the faithful, witness a marriage, see the mosaic studios where the great dome of the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception will be completed, and spend some important time with the men and women who serve our country and their families.

Father Ryan Boyle, a newly ordained co-

sponsored priest (St. Petersburg), also joined us and it was good to be with him for his first Christmas as a priest.

I was also very solemnly welcomed on base by the Italian commander. I was not very adept at reviewing the troops, but Italians are very flexible with civilians! The museum of the Italian Air Force there is fascinating and I also enjoyed speaking with the parents of the current commander, as well as, his son.

Sacile, the little town where Father Monagle lives, did a wonderful job decorating the center of town with lights and a lovely Christmas crèche. It was spectacular indeed.

After a brief stop in Switzerland to visit the Apostolic Nuncio in Berne, an old friend from seminary and from my days as a diplomat of the Holy See, I returned to Washington to continue the long tradition of celebrating the Mass in the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception for the Solemnity of the Epiphany. It is always a privilege to celebrate the Eucharist there and I can never do so without remembering the celebration eight years ago when I took possession of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA. January was the month for retreats.

As has become the custom, the Bishops of Regions IV and XIV gather in Lutz, Fla for an annual retreat. This year Bishop Gerald Kicanas delighted us with his stories and thought-provoking reflections on the mercy of Almighty God. Florida beckoned me farther south to gather with Joe and Courtney Price of the AMS Finance Council and MGEN Mike and Rosemary Coyne and meet some new friends in the Naples area. It was a good occasion to enjoy some beautiful seascapes and to talk about the ministry of the Archdiocese. I took the first Mass at St. William Parish on the Feast of the Baptism of the Lord and was amazed at how many were gathered even at an early hour to keep holy the Lord’s Day.

That morning had me on a plane to Boston and Logan Airport, places dear to my heart from my days as a university student at Boston College. Monsignor John McLaughlin, the unforgettable first full-time Vocation Director at the AMS and currently Spiritual Director at St. John’s Seminary, had invited me to preach the annual retreat to the seminarians of the same seminary.

It was a full week, but I came away thinking that the Church is healthy. Generous and talented young men still want to give their lives to preaching the Gospel, making Christ present in the sacraments, and showering divine mercy on all of those in need of it. It is a good group which is already actively making a difference in the lives of others.

There was also time to spend a few days with the priests gathered to hear the wisdom of Bishop Michael Barber at the Navy retreat.

While many of the priests there are already retired, there were 10 on active duty and four relatively young chaplains. I enjoyed hearing the stories and was edified by the conferences given by Bishop Barber. He challenged all of us to live our priesthood and grow in the knowledge and love of Christ.

The gentle weather of Palm Beach deceived me into believing that the mild winter would continue. Such was not the case.

Usually the forecasters in Washington err in their predictions about the weather. However, their warnings were right on the mark in January and many heeded their message.

However, those anxious to defend innocent life from the womb until the tomb still filled the vast Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception to unite our prayer with that of the whole Church in the one sacrifice that gives life. Cardinal Timothy Dolan inspired us as he weaved the themes of mercy and respect for life into a powerful message of hope. Midshipmen from Annapolis and cadets from West Point were a part of that fervent congregation. (continued on page 37) spring / easter 2016 |

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By BISHOP RICHARD B. HIGGINS

“JUST GO SEE THE PRIEST”

“THE PRIEST" FATHER FELIX VISTAL

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he VA Medical Center in White City, Oregon is on Crater Lake Highway, a few miles east of Medford. According to its website it is “the nation’s only freestanding residential rehabilitation center” and its mission is to provide short-term rehabilitative and long-term health maintenance care for veterans who require minimal medical care.” Veterans who are served by this facility are blessed with the presence of two Catholic chaplains, Fathers Felix Vistal and Carmelo Anthony. Father Vistal is a full time employee and is available 5 days/week, whereas Father Carmelo provides “on-call” coverage on an as-needed basis.

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BISHOP RICHARD B. HIGGINS WITH SISTER MARGARET KEELER OSF AFTER PRESENTING HER WITH AN AMS CERTIFICATE OF APPRECIATION.

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ather Felix had arranged a breakfast meeting with some of his flock when I stopped by the first week of December. There might have been 15 to 20 folks present and we engaged in some spirited conversation on a variety of issues. Among those gathered around the table was a petite, fashionably-dressed woman who remained somewhat reserved throughout the conversation. Casually, I inquired about her service, to discover that she had been an Air Force test pilot who had flown a few of the more challenging airframes, to include the Lockheed F-104 Starfighter, a 1950s era Mach 2+ interceptor. I asked if she remembered the ejection harness on the 104. The petite lady looked at me quizzically! She wondered how I knew about that. I told her about my wild ride over the North Sea in a Danish 104 back in the early 80s. Reaching into my back pocket, I removed a piece of plastic and slipped it across the table towards her. She examined it carefully, turned it over and read the “Ratings and Privileges” section. The petite lady’s eyes lit up and she proclaimed to the gathering “the bishop can fly jets!”

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t was the break I needed to unlock the amazing story of this unassuming veteran.

A PhD in Aeronautical Engineering and Astrophysics, she had shown up to Edwards Air Force Base with a set of orders. Working her way to the Restricted Area, she approached a crusty veteran pilot standing in front of a two-seat F-104. Looking at what he thought was a teenage dependent who was lost on the flight line, he inquired how she had gotten past security and if she didn’t scamper back to where she had come from he was going to call the Security Police. Reaching into her handbag she removed a set of orders and told him “this piece of paper tells me that I am supposed to see a fellow called “SHILOH” and he is supposed to teach me how to fly that thing you are standing in front of!” Incredulously, he looked at her…surely you can’t be “COBRA”! Eventually “COBRA” retired from the Air Force and in her later years moved to Oregon. (continued on page 17) spring / easter 2016 |

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A SPIRITUAL GLIDE PATH TOWARDS EASTER 2016

By BISHOP F. RICHARD SPENCER

TOP: MEN’S LENTEN RETREAT ABOVE: MCCW-EUROPE WOMEN’S LENTEN RETREAT

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O, HOW DID WE ARRIVE AT EASTER SEASON, 2016?

Well, it all began this past Christmas, in Korea, where we introduced the World Premiere “FOURTEEN STATIONS OF THE NATIVITY”.

With the help of teenagers preparing to receive the Sacrament of Confirmation and role modeling after the standard “Fourteen Stations of the Cross”, the teens selected Icon Images from their Smart Phones to develop “Fourteen Stations of the NATIVITY” which pointed us toward Easter. This “spiritual product” focused our military Catholic communities in both Asia and Europe from the “womb to the tomb”. Our liturgical pilgrimage culminates in Easter joy during this Jubilee Year of Mercy. The first group to lead the way of Lenten preparations was our Catholic Priests in Europe who set the example with their own “Clergy Lenten Days of Reflection”. This two-day event was hosted by the Wiesbaden Chapel community and facilitated by Father Folz, Vicar General of the German Military Diocese who presented three Lenten conferences. The next Lenten event was the “Men’s Lenten Retreat, “Saying, Yes Lord!” sponsored by the Ramstein Catholic community and the Knights of Columbus in Europe. During this three-day retreat, the AMS Dean for Europe, Father Redmond Raux, along with Sir Knights David Dunn, Eric John Overcamp and Aaron Smith offered the men from all the military chapels a clear focus on the best way to prepare for Easter as men of faith. Not to be outdone, the MCCWEurope Women’s Lenten Retreat was organized by our Regional Coordinator Mrs. Jane Gottardi along with the Wiesbaden CWOC. Monsignor Steve Alker, a retired Chaplain General of the British Armed Forces, was the keynote speaker for this gathering of Catholic women and their families. So, Easter joy is intensified by our group efforts during these past Lenten weeks in Europe and Asia. ✞

He is not here; He has risen, just as He said.

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By BISHOP NEAL J. BUCKON

Arizona In January

CONFIRMATION CLASS DAVIS-MONTHAN AFB 13 JANUARY 2016.

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n May, 2011 while visiting Eielson AFB near to Fairbanks, AK, a Protestant Chaplain said, “Bishop if you really love your people you will visit us in January.” I responded by saying that while I do love those who serve near the Arctic Circle, I must visit the military bases in Arizona in January. Alaska will have to wait until May.

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T PHOTO COURTESY OF J. MITCHELL PHOTOGRAPHY HTTPS://JMITCHELLPHOTOGRAPHY.SMUGMUG.COM

he week after New Year’s Day, the bishops of the Archdiocese for the Military Services join the bishops of Region IV and XIV for an annual retreat at the Bethany Retreat Center of the Diocese of St. Petersburg in Lutz, Fla. I reserve the week following the retreat for making pastoral visits to the military bases in southern Arizona.

This year, Bishop Gerald F. Kicanas, the Bishop of Tucson, happened to be our Retreat Director. I thanked him for the outstanding retreat he provided for us, and informed him that I would soon be driving through his diocese as I visited the military bases near Yuma, Tucson, and Sierra Vista. Due to the shortage of Active Duty Catholic Chaplains in the U.S Armed Forces, some priests of the Diocese of Tucson are contracted to provide pastoral care and sacramental support. The retreat gave me the occasion to thank Bishop Kicanas for his generous ministerial support to Catholic military personnel assigned to Department of Defense installations in southern Arizona.

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nterstate 8 is the highway upon which I entered into Yuma from southern California. My first destination is the Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) located on the outskirts of the city. Father Ramonito Celestial met me at the chapel. Father Celestial is the Parochial Vicar of nearby Saint John Neumann Church where retired Navy Chaplain, Father John Friel, is the pastor. Fathers Friel and Ramonito, and the two Deacons of Saint John Neumann, are contracted to provide Catholic-specific ministry to the Marines and their families assigned to the MCAS. The demand for their care is expected to increase as MCAS Yuma transitions into the premier aviation testing and evaluation center for the Marine Corps. The pastoral visit included the opportunity for me to discuss the Catholic program with the priests, the

Base Chaplain, and the Commander of the MCAS; the celebration of the Sacrament of Confirmation at the MCAS, and a daily Mass at Saint John Neumann.

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ather Celestial drove me to a medical treatment facility in the city of Yuma where I could visit Monsignor Richard “Dixie” O’Keeffe. Monsignor O’Keeffe is the contract priest for the Army’s Yuma Proving Ground (YPG). The Monsignor had the misfortune of breaking his hip while vacationing in Ireland. His smile and Irish wit were intact as he said, “I’ll be set free from this hospital on Martin Luther King Day.” He told me that the priests of Immaculate Conception Church were celebrating Mass on Sunday at YPG while he is convalescing.

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then drove to Davis Monthan Air Force Base in Tucson. Davis Monthan is the home of the 12th Air Force and is an important training location for pilots from Central and South America. Unfortunately, Father Charles Knapp, the contract priest, had caught a terrible cold and was not available during the pastoral visit. Monsignor John Cusack, USAF-Retired, improvised and arranged for us to dine with Father Mike Martinez, the only Catholic Chaplain serving with the Arizona Air National Guard. Father John “Gus” Allt joined Monsignor Cusack and I in the celebration of the Sacrament of Confirmation. Father Allt has been contracted for priestly ministry at the base for 17 years.

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he Army’s Fort Huachuca was my final destination on the journey. It has long been known as the training center for Military Intelligence. Personnel from the other Military Services and from amongst our Allies are selected and sent to Fort Huachuca for training. Father Peter Uhde (Newark) is the Catholic Chaplain assigned (continued on page 41) spring / easter 2016 |

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By BISHOP ROBERT J. COYLE

Reflections

Let all guests who arrive be received like Christ, for He is going to say, “I came as a guest, and you received Me.” (Matt. 25:35). [b e ne dic t ine

rul e ]

BELMONT ABBEY CHAPEL IN CHARLOTTE, N.C.

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uring my years on active duty as a Navy Chaplain, and since my time as an auxiliary bishop, I have experienced a wonderful welcome in locations all around the globe. “Welcome aboard� is one of the warmest greetings we can receive. I am very grateful and most humbled by the warm welcome and kindness of the Catholic communities and commands that I visit on a regular basis. Since the spring of 2013, I have become a regular with many different bases and communities.

I look forward to the chapel dinners and gatherings after Mass. I often run into someone I served with in the past or a mutual friend comes up in conversation. It is special how the Church and military family bring us all closer together.

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ecently I visited Tyndall Air Force Base in Florida. The chapel community there provided a very special celebration for a young lady and her family.

Gabrielle was Confirmed and chose Saint Ann as her Confirmation name.

She chose this name in honor of her late mother and the special connection of Saint Ann as the mother of Mary. The Catholic community and choir provided a beautiful Mass and reception for this young lady and her family. This is representative of the hospitality and care provided at our military chapels. Tyndall understands well how to be Christ to others.

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ne group in particular has been very generous to me over the years. Most of my priesthood was spent in parish assignments. I lived with several priests at these rectories that were attached to those parishes. St. Dominic in Oyster Bay, N.Y.; St. Patrick in Glen Cove, N.Y.; and Corpus Christi in Mineola, N.Y. My last parish included 7 priests in residence. This is a great blessing and support to priestly ministry, with meals, conversations, discussions, and fraternity. I looked for this support while serving the military. I found it with the Benedictines.

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hile on active duty, I was very blessed to spend time with the Benedictine Monks who staff Saint Gregory the Great Parish in Virginia Beach, Va. I have visited with them on and off since 2007. The monks have opened up the rectory for many decades to military priests. Several military priests serving in the Norfolk area resided there and do so to this day. When I conduct my (continued on page 16) spring / easter 2016 |

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Reflections

(continued from page 15)

pastoral visits in the Norfolk area I continue to stay with them. Brother Mark Evans, O.S.B. and all the monks are wonderful and now when I stay they put me in the “Bishop’s Room.” The fraternity, conversation, meals, and laughter are a wonderful gift. I look forward to seeing them annually. Father Mario Fulgenci, O.S.B., the pastor and the other monks welcome all in Christ.

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s Vicar for the Eastern Region, I again have the honor to have a place to stay with the Benedictines. The Benedictines of Belmont Abbey outside of Charlotte, N.C., opened their home to this nomad. This is a large religious community attached to Belmont Abbey College. Abbot Placid Solari, O.S.B. and the monks have been very kind to me. They too have a wonderful sense of hospitality, fraternity, and welcome. They are men of deep prayer and concern for us all.

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t the end of the Year of Consecrated Life, it is good to reSAINT BENEDICT member that the Benedictines have been very supportive of this former Navy chaplain and now auxiliary bishop.

I write about them to thank them publicly for their support and commitment to the mission of the Archdiocese for the Military Services. In Virginia Beach, many military families attend the parish of St. Gregory and send their children to the parish school. The local military families are served most generously, including the Army facility at Fort Story which is served by the monks in their additional role as contract priests from St. Gregory Church.

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he Benedictines continue to inspire me with their special service to the Church. I have been blessed to be in their presence and learn the real meaning of seeing Christ in others and welcoming everyone as if they are Jesus Christ Himself. May each of us strive to welcome the faithful at our chapel communities and commands always. Active-duty, reserve, retired members, and visitors make up the Catholic communities that gather each week around the globe.

May St. Benedict intercede for us all to be Christ to one another. May we follow the example of the order he founded to be people of prayer, service, and welcome.

God love you. ✞

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“JUST GO SEE THE PRIEST”

(continued from page 9)

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aving broken the ice and established some credibility with this amazing lady, she told me of her search for Jesus and His Church. “Bishop, I’m a scientist and when I look at the heavens and consider the order in this magnificent world I know we didn’t do it, and there must be someone out there who put it all together and if there is someone out there I want to know and I want to worship him in the manner in which he deserves.” She went on to tell those of us remaining at the table of her search for God and how, eventually, someone told her to just go see Father Vistal.

“But he’s a Catholic priest…he’ll throw me out of his office.” The “someone” reassured her…“go, talk to him.” “COBRA” was received into the Catholic Church at the Easter Vigil in 2015 and worships the God she discovered with the Catholic community at the White City VA Medical Center.

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ontinuing down Interstate 5 into Northern California, I headed for the Palo Alto VA Medical Center to present an AMS Certificate of Appreciation to Sister Margaret Keeler OSF, retiring after 14 years as the Coordinator of Volunteers and Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion at Palo Alto.

A kind, gracious, compassionate lady, Sister Margaret is moving south to care for elderly religious of her Franciscan Community. I was privileged to honor her service to veterans and chaplains throughout the Bay Area.

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he circuit continued with visits to VA Medical Centers in La Jolla, Loma Linda, Las Vegas and Phoenix where I left my trusty VW in the care of some dear friends from my days at Bitburg Air Base, Germany. As you read this I hope to have retrieved my “steed” and will be working my way back to D.C. via New Mexico, Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia, the Carolinas and Virginia. Hope to celebrate Easter at Fort Bragg and get home by 1 April! So, dear friends, I wish you many blessings throughout this sacred season and, once again, express my appreciation for your many prayers and generous support as I enjoy this wonderful ministry to which St. John Paul II called me in May 2004. ✞

“NO GREATER LOVE” - STAINED GLASS WINDOW, LA JOLLA, VA MEDICAL CENTER, SAN DIEGO, CA.

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The Harvest Patrick Costello DIOCESE: Green Bay, Wis. RANK / BRANCH OF SERVICE: MIDN / Navy NAME OF UNIVERSITY: U.S. Naval Academy, Annapolis, Md. HIGH SCHOOL ATTENDED: Neenah High School HOBBIES: Flying, Sailing, Camping, Filmmaking TEAM SPORTS: Tennis

WHEN WAS THE FIRST TIME YOU THOUGHT YOU MIGHT HAVE A VOCATION TO THE PRIESTHOOD? 11th grade.

WHO OR WHAT EVENTS INFLUENCED OR INSPIRED YOU IN YOUR DISCERNMENT JOURNEY? My priest in junior year of high school, Father Bill Faix, OSA and my priest at USNA Father Parisi, CAPT, CHC, USN influenced me.

Living in Prague during my junior year inspired me with the history and beauty of the faith.

WHAT WOULD PEOPLE BE SURPRISED TO KNOW ABOUT YOU? My favorite thing to do is teach, especially young kids, the faith.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SCRIPTURE PASSAGE, WHY? “As the deer longs for running streams, so my soul longs for you, O Lord.” (Psalm 42:1) ). It just seems to sum up me and God. HOW DID YOU COME TO KNOW JESUS CHRIST PERSONALLY? Always in the Eucharist. I first truly knew He was there at the beginning of high school and I have become so much closer to Him in Adoration and prayer since my time in college.

WHAT WERE SOME OF THE SPIRITUAL EVENTS OR ACTIVITIES THAT HELPED YOU DEVELOP AND SHARE YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH CHRIST AND HIS CHURCH? Making a pilgrimage to Medjugorje just before entering 9th grade

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Continues... with my grandfather was an especially beautiful time in which my faith became my own. After this trip I started to pray with my heart more and started to read about the faith on my own time. I grew in devotion to Mary. I also began to teach catechism in 10th grade and found it to become my favorite thing in the week.

HAVE ANY SAINTS OR CHURCH LEADERS PARTICULARLY INSPIRED YOUR DISCERNMENT JOURNEY? St. Therese of Lisieux…reading her Story of a Soul before my junior year of college was one of the most grace-filled moments of my life and she continues to intercede in special ways.

WHO ARE YOUR HEROES OR PEOPLE YOU SIGNIFICANTLY ADMIRE? My family. I also highly admire leaders and workers in the pro-life movement, especially young ones. Fulton Sheen is one of my greatest heroes.

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? I stop in to say hello to Christ in the morning. I try to pray for people and think about God during the day. Daily Mass and then a nightly rosary.

“ I first truly knew He was there at the beginning of high school and I have become so much closer to Him in Adoration and prayer since my time in college.” spring / easter 2016 |

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By MARY LAVIN

A Catholic Bucket List

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n the last three years, I have had the good fortune to meet or talk with many who financially support the AMS. Every meeting and each conversation has been unique. In a recent conversation with Fran M. Black, MSN, FNP (Ret.), it was the first time I heard the phrase, “A Catholic bucket list” used.

Mrs. Black told me that it was her Catholic bucket list – not a list of places to see or things to do in this life but rather a list of ways to give back – that motivated her to establish the first Catholic Charitable Gift Annuity through Catholic Extension that will benefit the AMS. Mrs. Black is a retired medical professional and the mother of a Marine who served two tours in Iraq and two tours in Afghanistan.

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atholic Church Extension Society, now referred to as Catholic Extension, is one of the largest, oldest, and strongest managers of annuities in the United States. Catholic Extension has been a long-time and generous supporter of the mission and ministry of the AMS. In 2013, the AMS partnered with Catholic Extension to manage its Catholic Gift Annuity Program.

A charitable gift annuity is a simple contract administered by Catholic Extension.

By taking out a Catholic Gift Annuity, an individual may be eligible for a charitable tax deduction, receive fixed payments for life, and leave a legacy to further AMS programs and services. At the time of death, the remaining balance of the gift annuity is then distributed to the AMS. The Catholic Gift Annuity program follows the suggested payout rates by the American Council on Gift Annuities.

The AMS is grateful to Mrs. Black for establishing the first Catholic Gift Annuity to benefit the AMS and for her willingness to share her motivation and story with readers, saying, “I hope my experiences will move some to contribute to the AMS through the

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Catholic Gift Annuity program. I recently learned about Catholic Extension and that it has supported a number of AMS programs and initiatives, including the Co-Sponsored Seminarian Program. I have faith that the great financial planner, God, will provide them with untold dividends.”

To learn how you can join thousands of Catholics who invest in the future of the Catholic Church, and those like Fran Black who choose to invest in the future of the AMS, visit www.catholicgiftannuity.org or call 1-800-842-7804 and tell them you want to establish an annuity to further the mission and ministry of the AMS. You can also visit the AMS web site, www.milarch.org/waystogive2 to download a Catholic Charitable Gift Annuity brochure or form. A brochure will be mailed by contacting Mary Lavin, Director of Major Gifts/Development at mlavin@milarch.org or (440) 223-6482. You can help further the mission of the AMS by making an estate gift of a specific amount or a percentage of your final estate. Please consult your financial or legal advisor before making a gift to any non-profit organization. ✞

2016 NATIONAL COLLECTION FOR THE AMS

here is now a web site with information and resources for dioceses, parishes and individuals interested in supporting the 2016 National Collection for the AMS. It includes a video message from the Most Reverend Timothy P. Broglio, resources to share or download, and other ways to support the men and women from your parish who currently serve or have served in the U.S. Armed Forces. The site will continue to be updated with resources and ideas in the weeks and months ahead and may be found at www.milarch.org/nationalcollection. ✞

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By FATHER GREGORY CAIAZZO

...They Need Me Most Out There...

LEFT : FATHER PAUL REDMOND DURING WORLD WAR II RIGHT: FATHER PAUL REDMOND PRESENT DAY

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n my thirty years on active duty, I have met some incredible priest chaplains who not only mentored me as a junior chaplain but also inspired me to do the important things to bring Christ and the sacraments to our men and women in uniform. As we prepare to celebrate Easter, it is inspiring to look back on not only the heroism but also the great faith and dedication of priests who have served in the Military.

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ecently, I came across a story of a Dominican Priest named Father Paul Redmond. He served as a chaplain in the Navy during World War I. Father Redmond started out his time in the Navy back in World War I, right after he graduated from High School. He served on the USS Wyoming for more than a year in that war. As with many men who served in combat, he was touched by his experience and after the war he answered the call to the priesthood.

He completed his undergraduate studies at Providence College and then went to St. Thomas Seminary in Connecticut. After joining the Dominicans, he earned his Ph.D from The Catholic University of America.

The bombing of Pearl Harbor brought back memories of his time in uniform, and Father Redmond received the permission of his superiors to come into the Navy as a Chaplain. After only a three-week chaplain school in Norfolk, VA he was off to Quantico to serve with the Marines. In February of 1943 he was assigned to the 1st and 4th Marine Raider Battalions. The physical requirements were demanding, and most Catholic priests who are older than our young enlisted Marines would have a hard time keeping up with the rigors. He was 41 at this time and at 6’ and 190 lbs was in top physical shape.

Because chaplains were few and a valued commodity by commanders, they were usually not included in the first wave of an assault. Father Redmond knew this and instead landed with an advanced force of

raiders on the island of New Georgia in the Pacific. He would not be dissuaded from being with his men. When asked if this was wise, he simply said “These are my boys.

They need me most out there. I’m going with them.”

He received the Legion of Merit and was promoted to Lieutenant Commander for his exceptional ministry.

The following story comes from the Minnesota Historical Society and tells first hand of Father Redmonds’ ministry.

“My face was bleeding. I could kind of see the blood squirting out of my gut…then all that machine gun fire. There was a Catholic priest by the name of Father Paul Redmond. He crawled up to me and he said a prayer. Every day I think, “How did he ever survive getting up to me?” You should have seen the way the guys were dropping. And he came right to me and he was saying that prayer to me and he says, “You’re a brave Marine. God will take care of you. Your wounds will be healed.” And then he took off. And that’s when this one guy pulled me by the ankles and down that hill and Dunbar carried me back.”

— Nicholas Zobenica, A MARINE RAIDER INJURED ON GUAM

When I hear of stories like these, I am thankful that so many of our priests have answered God’s call and gone that extra mile to make a huge difference in the lives of so many. At this Easter time, it’s good to remember them and pray that more will be inspired to do the same.

For further information on Father Redmond and other chaplains in World War II take a look at “Serving God and Country: United States Military Chaplains in World War II” by Lysle W. Dorsett and also check out the Dominican History BlogSpot. spring / easter 2016 |

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By TAYLOR HENRY

Archdiocese to Hold Spring & Fall Discernment Retreats for Ordained Priests Considering Military Chaplaincy PHOTO COURTESY OF BOB ROLLER | CATHOLIC NEWS SERVICE

ARCHBISHOP BROGLIO AT THE FALL 2015 U.S. BISHOPS' CONFERENCE IN BALTIMORE, MD., 16 NOVEMBER 2015.

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PHOTO COURTESY OF CHAZ MUTH | CATHOLIC NEWS SERVICE.

COMMANDER TRACIE A. SEVERSON, PH.D., BRIEFS PRIESTS CONSIDERING VOCATIONS AS MILITARY CHAPLAINS AT THE U.S. NAVAL ACADEMY IN ANNAPOLIS, MD., 6 OCTOBER 2015.

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riests interested in serving as United States Military chaplains are strongly encouraged to apply for an allexpenses-paid, five-day retreat to discern the “vocation within a vocation.”

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his year, the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA (AMS), will sponsor two such retreats, called “For God and Country: a Call to Serve Those Who Serve.” Both retreats will be held in Washington, D.C., the first, from 18 to 22 April; the second, 17 to 21 October.

The retreats provide a unique opportunity for priests who are already serving in a U.S. diocese or religious order, and currently engaged in pastoral service, to learn more about the chaplaincy in hopes they will step forward and help ease a growing Catholic chaplain shortage in all branches of the U.S. Military.

The first retreat of its kind, held in October of 2015, was “very successful,” according to Archbishop Timothy P. Broglio.

“I thank those Bishops who released five of the ten participants for ministry in the military,” he said in remarks to the fall General Assembly of the United States Con-

ference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) in Baltimore, Md. Archbishop Broglio told his brother bishops the need for more Catholic military chaplains has become desperate. “Approximately one-fourth of the active-duty personnel and their immediate families are Catholics,” he said. “At present those Catholics—totaling around a million people—are served by only 217 priests in a territory that covers the globe. They represent only 8% of all military chaplains.” His Excellency warned that disparity suggests chaplains of other denominations “might easily cultivate Catholic young people seeking spiritual counsel.”

Archbishop Broglio urged his brother bishops to release more priests to serve on active-duty, saying it is “imperative that every diocese have at least one priest to ensure that your faithful who defend our religious freedom do not have to sacrifice theirs.” (continued on page 41) spring / easter 2016 |

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By TAYLOR HENRY

ISIS Destroys Iraq’s Oldest Christian Monastery U.S. Military Chaplains Last to Celebrate Mass at St. Elijah

ST. ELIJAH MONASTERY NEAR MOSUL, IRAQ, BEFORE ITS DESTRUCTION BY ISIS IN 2014.

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uring his 2009-2010 deployment to Iraq, Father Jeffrey Whorton, CH (MAJ), USA, celebrated Mass for U.S. troops in the hard stone sanctuary of the war-torn country’s oldest Christian monastery.

Little did he know then that the ancient structure stood in the twilight of its years.

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PHOTO BY: STAFF SGT. RUSSELL LEE KLIKA

FATHER PATRICK VAN DURME, CH (CAPT), USA, PRESIDED OVER THE LITURGY AT AN EASTER VIGIL IN THE COURTYARD OF ST. ELIJAH MONASTERY IN WHAT IS BELIEVED TO BE THE LAST MASS EVER CELEBRATED THERE.

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t. Elijah Monastery rested like a fortress on a hill over Mosul, across the Tigris River from the Old Testament site of Nineveh, and Father Whorton, along with fellow military chaplains and their assistants, guided many deployed Americans and others on tours of the 1400 year old Abbey.

In January, 2016, the Associated Press (AP) broke the tragic news that satellite images had confirmed destruction of St. Elijah at the hands of the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS). The shattering took place sometime between 27 August and 28 September 2014.

As it turns out, Father Whorton, and Father Patrick Van Durme, CH (CAPT), USA, both serving with endorsement and faculties from the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA (AMS), were the last priests to preside at the liturgy in the ancient monastery. On 3 April 2010, just before Iraq’s government shut it down, Father Van Durme celebrated a final Easter Vigil in the courtyard on a

makeshift table altar, but it was Father Whorton who, in late 2009, was the last to preside on the ancient altar in the monastery.

ISIS left almost no stone unturned.

Mr. Stephen Wood, Chief Executive Officer of Longmont, Colorado-based Allsource Analysis, told the AP that the monastery’s stone and mortar walls were “literally pulverized.” He said that “bulldozers, heavy equipment, sledgehammers, possibly explosives turned those stone walls into this field of gray-white dust.

They destroyed it completely.”

“It was a sacred place,” Father Whorton says of the 27,000-square foot, 26-room monastery, built in the late sixth century and named for a devout Assyrian Christian monk. In 1743, according to the AP, as many as 150 monks were martyred there on orders of a Persian general when they refused to convert to Islam. Celebrating Mass on the monastery’s old altar, Father Whorton says, was “wonderful in a mystical and powerful way.” (continued on page 40) spring / easter 2016 |

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By TAYLOR HENRY

Catholics on Deployment to Iraq Have Christmas Mass Thanks to U.S. Navy Priest Chaplain Volunteer

FATHER CHRISTOPHER S. FRONK, S.J., CDR, CHC, USN, (RIGHT) DURING AN EARLIER DEPLOYMENT TO AFGHANISTAN.

FATHER CHRISTOPHER S. FRONK, S.J., CDR, CHC, USN, CELEBRATES CHRISTMAS WITH IRAQI CHILDREN, 24 DECEMBER 2015, NEAR AL ASAD AIR BASE, IRAQ.

FATHER CHRISTOPHER S. FRONK, S.J., CDR, CHC, USN, (LEFT) IN IRAQ DURING CHRISTMAS SEASON 2015 WITH HIS CHAPLAIN ASSISTANT, JOSH SELVIDGE, RP2, USN.

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atholics deployed to Al Anbar Province, Iraq, over Christmas were able to participate in Mass and receive the sacraments, thanks to the U.S. Navy and a priest-chaplain who volunteered.

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ather Christopher S. Fronk, S.J., Command Chaplain aboard the Nimitz class aircraft supercarrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77), requested and received orders to go to the war zone while his ship was sidelined in Norfolk, Va., for maintenance. “Since the ship is in the yards,” Father Fronk told

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SALUTE before his 17 Dec 2015 departure for Iraq, “there will not be many people at all on board for Christmas and I thought that my services as a priest could be better utilized elsewhere. So I asked the leadership in the Chaplain Corps in October if there was a need for Catholic Chaplain support for the Marines who are

currently forward-deployed. The word came back in early November that the U.S. Forces in Iraq would welcome the assistance, since they were not going to have a priest for Christmas. I asked the Command of CVN 77 for the permission to go. Captain Will Pennington, the Commanding Officer, and Commander Gavin Duff, the Executive Officer, were very supportive.”

Father Fronk, a Jesuit from the Maryland Province of the Society of Jesus, spent more than two weeks in the war zone.

From 19 Dec 2015 to 03 Jan 2016, he made rounds to a half dozen sites under the watchful eye of an armed Chaplain Assistant, Religious Program Specialist Second Class Josh Selvidge. “I had hoped to get to more sites,” Father Fronk recalled upon his return to Norfolk, “but transportation was limited and a couple of rainstorms grounded scheduled flights.” Even so, while in Al Anbar, Father Fronk was able to reach approximately 1,500 servicemen and women, celebrating seven (7) Christmas Masses, five (5) daily Masses, and hearing quite a few confessions.“A couple of people who hadn’t been to confession in over 20 years came,” Father Fronk said. “Both told me they were thinking that if God sent a priest to Iraq during the Christmas season then it must be a sign to them to get squared away with their faith lives.”

Father Fronk said the worst part of the experience was his 27-hour flight from the U.S. East Coast to the Middle East. “I flew commercial from Norfolk to Atlanta to Amsterdam to Saudi Arabia to Kuwait.

In all honesty, there were a couple of times on the flight when I was crammed into a seat that felt way too small and I

was missing my family and I was thinking, ‘what did I get myself into?’ But once I arrived in theater and started making my rounds and I heard over and over ‘thank you Father for giving up your Christmas to offer Mass for us,’ I knew that I was exactly where I was supposed to be for Christmas.”

While Father Fronk saw no direct combat, the front lines were well within earshot. “The entrance hymn we chose for midnight Mass at Al Assad Air Base was ‘Silent Night.’ But in the background we could hear rockets being fired against ISIS contacts. The irony was not lost on me.”

The human toll of drawn-out warfare was not lost on him, either. One of his favorite visits, he said, was to a camp set up for displaced families who were fleeing ISIS. “We visited them on Christmas Eve,” Father Fronk recalled, “and brought a bunch of soccer balls over for the kids.

The kids all came running out when we arrived and were so excited.”

The volunteer war zone chaplain said he was “very happy to be able to go over and support in this way. There is no greater satisfaction as a priest than to go where the need is greatest and where people are asking you to make the trip.

The troops were very happy to have a priest visit, especially for Christmas. And they asked if I could offer Mass each day since they didn't know when a priest would visit again. As a priest it is always so good to hear people ask for the Eucharist, be excited when it is offered, and not take it for granted.”

So good, in fact, that Father Fronk has requested, and received, orders to return to Iraq for Easter. ✞ spring / easter 2016 |

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By JAMES R. FORMATO

Reopening & Rededication National Purple Heart Hall Of Honor

Visitors to the newly renovated National Purple Heart Hall of Honor (NPHHH) viewing some of the artifacts on display.

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five-year odyssey culminated in the grand reopening of the National Purple Heart Hall of Honor, which took place on Saturday, 15 August 2015, at the New Windsor Cantonment site in New Windsor, N.Y. It seems only natural for the Hall of Honor to be located on these historical grounds.

It was here while George Washington’s troops were encamped awaiting their discharge from the American Revolutionary Army that the first “Badge of Military Merit” was awarded. Through the years that followed the name of the award changed to the most familiar “Purple Heart”. On 28 May 1932, there were 137 World War I honorees that received their “Purple Heart” on the same site where General Washington awarded the precursor.

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lmost twenty years ago a young man, named Patric Morrison, submitted a letter to the editor of the local weekly newspaper “The Sentinel”, asking why there was no recognition for those military who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country and those who were injured in combat situations. The Publisher and owner and an Army veteran, Everett Smith, mentioned this request to New York State Senator William J. Larkin Jr., (Lt. Col., US Army Retired).

Both men were excitedly interested in forging ahead with plans to answer Patric’s request. Senator Larkin contacted a friend of his, Lt. Gen. James D. Hughes, (USAF, retired and USMA Class of 1946 graduate) regarding this new venture. All three men felt the need to bring on board a World War II Army platoon sergeant that was a tough but knowledgeable and orderly individual. That man was Joseph Farina.

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hese men formed what is currently referred to as the “Genesis Group.” For almost eight long and difficult years they researched, contacted, addressed and visited various locations in order to establish a memorial to “commemorate the extraordinary sacrifices of America’s servicemen and women who were killed or wounded in combat.” The Genesis Group persisted and was able to obtain financial assistance through such groups as New York State, Dyson Foundation, Kaplan Foundation, McCann Foundation, Orange County IDA, William Kaplan, Alan Gerry, Joseph Kirchhoff, Peter Olympia and James Smith. Their vision became a reality and the Memorial building was erected as an extension of the American Revolution museum located at the site.

Patric Morrison stands as he is recognized during the rededication ceremonies.

The Genesis Group: Lt. Gen. James D. Hughes, Joseph Farina, Everett Smith & N.Y. Senator William J. Larkin, Jr. Executive Director of the National Purple Heart Hall of Honor, Andrew Komonchak and the Board of Directors Chairman, Richard Lay (photo on page 33 lower left ), began the unenviable task of raising the nearly three million dollars to accommodate this need.

While thousands of Purple Heart recipients and their families passed through this Hall of Honor, the increase in number of Purple Heart Awards was and is surpassing a phenomenal 1.7 million. The WWI and WWII mementos were astounding but the Korean, Vietnam, Grenada, and Gulf Wars created the need for more space.

(Continued on page 32)

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Reopening & Rededication National Purple Heart Hall Of Honor

(Continued from page 31)

Military Memorabilia on display in the new wing of the NPHHOH.

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n 15 August, the Genesis Group, Executive Director, Board of Directors, Staff and volunteers came together to celebrate the reopening and re-dedication of the National Purple Heart Hall of Honor. Nearly one thousand people filled the tent to listen to the various speakers after the Posting of the Colors by MAG 49 Detachment B USMC Stewart International Air Base. Two of the three Genesis Group spoke, Senator Larkin on the meaning of sacrifice during combat and Joe Farina, who spoke about the formation of the Genesis Group. Unfortunately, Lt. Gen. Hughes was not able to attend because he was at the internment of his chief of staff and fellow classmate in Arlington National Cemetery. Joe Farina announced this as he stated this was the very first time all four members were not present at a public function.

TThe Military Order of the Purple Heart National Senior Vice Commander, William Nazario commenting on his experience leading up to his being awarded the Purple Heart and his elation that the NPHHOH was in existence.

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Major General Patrick A. Murphy, Adjutant General of New York State, congratulating the Genesis Group and all those affiliated with the days events.

Under the command of Major General Patrick A. Murphy the 42nd Infantry Division Band supplied the entertainment for the day.

T U.S. Congressman Chris Gibson

Richard Lay, a Vietnam Purple Heart recipient and Board Chairman, thanked all who provided the materials, finances and physical efforts to bring the NPHHOH to this day.

However, he stated, the need already exists to expand because of the rising numbers of recipients.

He commented upon the beginning of a new campaign to raise nearly seven million dollars for the next addition.

The Color Guard was provided by the United States Marine Corps Air Wing Stationed at Stewart International Airport.

he Keynote speaker was U.S. Congressman Chris Gibson who spoke to the guests and visitors from the perspective of his own Purple Heart.

He joined the United States Army in 1986 after graduating from Siena College. He served tours in the First Gulf War, Kosovo, and Iraq, rising to the rank of Colonel. He received four Bronze Stars and a Purple Heart, among other awards while in the Army. He holds a Ph.D. in government from Cornell University. His emotions were visible as he spoke of how some of his men made the ultimate sacrifice and those who were wounded trying to help their fellow soldiers.

(Continued on page 34)

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Reopening & Rededication National Purple Heart Hall Of Honor

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t should be noted here that The National Catholic War Veterans of the United States of America was actively represented in the formation and establishment of the National Purple Heart Hall of Honor. Of the four members of the Genesis Group, three are members of the Catholic War Veterans Post #386: Lt. General James D. Hughes, New York State Senator William J. Larkin, Jr. and Joseph Farina (a charter member). In addition to these gentlemen, Richard Lay, Chairman of the Board of Directors is also a Post #386 member.

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his is unique and historical in that these men served their country, their home and their God, the three items that make up the motto for the Catholic War Veterans – For God, County and Home! The uniqueness is not only are they members of the Catholic War Veterans but also members of the very same post. This speaks honorably for the involvement of the Catholic War Veterans and this post. ✞ PROOF MATERIALS 1) Submit a copy of your General Orders which indicates awarding of the Purple Heart, and/or 2) Discharge Papers (WWII and earlier), DD-214 (After WWII).

3) Copy of Actual Purple Heart Certificate.

The National Purple Heart Hall of Honor is actively seeking recipients of the Purple Heart. If you are a recipient or know anyone who was awarded this special honor there are two methods to obtain applications: 1) Go to their web site ThePurpleHeart.com.

Use the link to the application form. Print the form, complete it, and mail it with the Proof (will be explained below) to the address shown on the web site.

2) Or, if you prefer, telephone the Hall of Honor at 845.561.1765 and request an application form.

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4) If deceased, family member, friend or anyone familiar with veteran: a photograph of the Military Tombstone with the Purple Heart indication or Veterans Plaque with the Purple Heart indication.

5) If available, photographs of the time of receiving the Purple Heart; the time during service, and, 6) A narrative containing the story for the awarding of the Purple Heart.

The purpose of these materials that will be placed in the Hall of Honor and included in the registry of recipients is to never forget the sacrifices these men and women suffered so that we may live in freedom.

By MS. CASEY BUSTAMANTE

Celebrating the Jubilee of Mercy…

Digitally

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he Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception, 8 December 2015, began the Year of Mercy and with that Pope Francis invited the Church to participate in a variety of opportunities to celebrate this Jubilee.

In the Bull of Indiction of the Jubilee, Misericordiae Vultus, Pope Francis describes the motto, “Merciful Like the Father (taken from the Gospel of Luke, 6:36) as an invitation to follow the merciful example of the Father who asks us not to judge or condemn but to forgive and to give love and forgiveness without measure (Lk 6:37-38).” The opportunities encouraged in the Bull include a pilgrimage through a Door of Mercy in local dioceses, encouraging the frequent visitation to the sacrament of reconciliation and contemplation on the works of mercy.

The global setting of the AMS provided unique avenues for the Office of Evangelization to participate in this Jubilee. In turn, the Office has sought the assistance of members from around the archdiocese to share their reflections on the corporal and spiritual works of mercy.

The reflections are published in both audio and written format on the AMS USA app (http://get.theapp.co/03d8) and the AMS website under the Year of Mercy resources section, respectively. It has been incredible to hear the stories of service members and their families who give so much on a day-to-day basis, amidst their personal and professional sacrifices. The stories illustrate moments of charity that can only be possible because of the uncommon lifestyle of service members (listen to “Feed the Hungry: The Basket”

by Lynda McFarland) and at other times simply due to physical proximity to places in the world where poverty is greatest (listen to “Give Drink to The Thirsty” by Leslie Capuano). The Office of Evangelization will continue to share the good news of the works of mercy through the conclusion of the Jubilee on the Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe, November 20, 2016.

May the members of the AMS continue to be blessed with opportunities to serve Jesus Christ through the works of mercy: You are the visible face of the invisible Father, of the God who manifests his power above all by forgiveness and mercy: let the Church be your visible face in the world, its Lord risen and glorified.

You willed that your ministers would also be clothed in weakness in order that they may feel compassion for those in ignorance and error: let everyone who approaches them feel sought after, loved, and forgiven by God. *** We ask this of you, Lord Jesus, through the intercession of Mary, Mother of Mercy; you who live and reign with the Father and the Holy Spirit for ever and ever.

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By MARK MOITOZA, D. MIN.

CRS University

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any people know about the work of Catholic Relief Services through the CRS Rice Bowl initiative that takes place during Lent. CRS Rice Bowl brings Catholics face-to-face with the lived experiences of life-saving aid extended to millions of individuals living in poverty throughout the world. In order to continue learning about Catholic Social Teaching during the year, CRS has created a new program called CRS University that is accessible to all.

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INNOVATIONS IN ADAPTATION IN THE WORLD’S MOST VUNERABLE PLACES

FAIR TRADE: COFFEE AS A CASE STUDY

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RS University collaborates with college campuses to offer online courses grounded in Catholic Social Teaching. These courses, developed by CRS experts and faculty advisors, draw upon CRS’ overseas development work in almost 100 countries. The faculty learning commons (FLC) combine the practical experience of CRS expertise working on the ground along with academic research.

Each semester, the FLC features two academic session topics that connect to a core thematic area of CRS’ overseas work. Throughout the Spring 2016 semester the focus is on ‘fair trade.’ While the program is designed for a university-level audience to integrate into existing coursework it is open to all. The program is free of charge and is available to anyone who registers.

Archived courses offer the opportunity to explore other areas of interest related to Catholic Social Teaching.

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atholic Relief Services is motivated by the Gospel of Jesus Christ to cherish, preserve, and uphold the sacredness and dignity of all human life, foster charity and justice, and embody Catholic teaching. An agency of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, CRS represents Catholics in the United States and 93 countries around the world.

CRS responds to human needs and promotes human development by providing help during major emergencies, fighting disease and poverty, and nurturing peaceful and just societies.

CRS provides opportunities for Catholics in the United States to live their faith in solidarity with our poorest brothers and sisters around the world.

During the Year of Mercy all of us are called to a greater awareness of the particular needs of our brothers and sisters throughout the world. Some in the military have served in countries where CRS is present. This brings an added perspective to the practical nature of learning that is key to understanding. CRS University provides a way to journey toward solidarity through knowledge, prayer, and action. Take some time to review the archived courses to include the key learning objectives and course materials. Both archived and current course materials may be accessed online, http://university.crs.org/faculty/course-materials. ✞

PLANES, TRAINS, SNOW, AUTOMOBILES, AND CAMELS ? (continued from page 7)

ARCHBISHOP TIMOTHY P. BROGLIO REVIEWING THE ITALIAN TROOPS WITH THE ITALIAN COMMANDER, COL. STEFANO CIANFROCCA.

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he next morning seventeen cadets from West Point clad warmly in casual clothes came to the Edwin Cardinal O’Brien Pastoral Center for a tour and Mass, at which they were joined by some other young active-duty personnel. Fortified by sandwiches and cookies made by Chef Andrew Hayes, all the guests and a group of clergy and staff from the AMS took the Metro down to join the March for Life.

Snow swirled as we prayed the Rosary and walked from the Washington Monument to the Supreme Court building. We, too, were covered by snowflakes when we posed for the picture you can see on these pages.

As the witnesses to the truth through the centuries of the life of the Church have done, we felt compelled to ask all people to show

mercy to the unborn, to the handicapped and terminally ill, and to those at the end of their life’s journey. It was a good march, but the beginning of a long ride for the cadets as their return to West Point took much of the weekend.

When I finally arrived at the Bahrain Naval Air Station, Father Les Sikorski, ever smiling, greeted me and escorted me to my quarters on base. It was still 25 January and so I celebrated a private Mass of thanksgiving for eight years of ministry to wonderful people who sacrifice themselves to serve our Country.

Trains, planes, snow, and whatever else happens, it is inspiring to serve great men and women.

Thank you, Lord!

You can see, that there is also time for fun, including a visit to a camel farm where over 600 camels reside and wait for the visits of twolegged tourists who might even feed them.

I began these lines on an airplane and finish them there, as well. This time, however, it is the long return flight back to Washington, still emerging from the snow.✞ spring / easter 2016 |

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By FATHER AIDAN LOGAN, O.C.S.O.

t. Bernard of Clairvaux and Christian Knighthood

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he great monk, abbot and Doctor of the Church, St Bernard of Clairvaux (10901153) is best known for his deep devotion to Mary, the Mother of God, and for his rich mystical life reflected in his Commentary on the Song of Songs. His letters, sermons, scripture commentaries, and essays cover every aspect of the Christian life from the souls most intimate relationship with God to the most down-to-earth and practical aspects of Church, State, and monastic life. All sought his advice and counsel. Brilliance aside, the sheer volume of his writings is surpassed only by those of St. Augustine. He sits astride the history of the first half of the twelfth century of Europe as no other. he twelfth century was an age of paradox. It was the age of the great cathedrals, the rebirth of the arts and literature, church reform and evangelization, great advances in agriculture and technology, and the founding and flourishing of the great universities and abbeys. But it was also an age of great conflict, dynastic wars and unending clashes among feudal barons. It was the age of the Crusades and in 1145 it was St. Bernard who rallied the forces of Christendom for the Second Crusade.

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t. Bernard, like all the nobility of his day, was born into a family of warriors. It is not surprising, then, that he addressed himself to the question of the Christian warrior. He had no illusions about war and the men who fought the battles, their vices and their virtues. But with the keen sight of the pure of heart he saw that the radical commitment to the Gospel demanded of monks was akin to that of the Christian knight.

It was with this insight that around the year 1136 addressing the Knights Templar he wrote “In Praise of the New Knighthood”.

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s he describes the life of the ideal knight one can easily envision both the life of the cloister and that of a well-disciplined and motivated military unit.

Here are men who… shun every excess in clothing and food. They live as brothers in joyful and sober company (with) one heart and one soul. ...There is no distinction of persons among them, and deference is shown to merit rather than to noble blood. They rival one another in mutual consideration, and they carry one another's burdens, thus fulfilling the law of Christ.

[Bernard of Clairvaux, “In Praise of the New Knighthood,” The Works of Bernard of Clairvaux, V. 7 (Cistercian Publications, Kalamazoo, MI, 1977) 127-167.]

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or the Abbot of Clairvaux the real warfare, the one with eternal consequences, was in warfare of the spirit. Not only Templars, who took vows of poverty, chastity and obedience, but all Christians are summoned to spiritual battle. Here he echoes St. Paul… Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we are not contending against flesh and blood, but against the principalities, against the powers, against the world rulers of this present darkness, against the spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. (Ephesians 6:11-12)

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hese are the virtues that any Christian warrior brings to the service of the nation and of the common good of all humanity. For the Christian, especially the Christian who takes up the noble profession of arms, the wars and conflicts of this age have eternal consequences. The real battle is within the hearts of men. ✞

T

MARINES AT PRAYER BEFORE GOING ON PATROL

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ISIS Destroys Iraq’s Oldest Christian Monastery FATHER JEFFREY WHORTON, CH (MAJ), USA, WAS THE LAST PRIEST EVER TO CELEBRATE MASS ON THE ANCIENT ALTAR IN ST. ELIJAH MONASTERY.

U.S. Military Chaplains Last to Celebrate Mass at St. Elijah (continued from page 27)

“There was an odd-shaped piece of wood above the entrance to the nave,” he recalls. “It looked like a yoke for oxen. It was a humbling reminder that as a priest I was yoked to Christ, offering His life, death and resurrection in the Holy Sacrifice that had taken place there thousands of times throughout the monastery's 1400 years. I would bow low through the short door into the transcended space of the saints and martyrs.”

Father Van Durme, now retired from active duty, recalls that “there were more than 250 people at that last Mass. Not just Catholic Americans, but people from all over the world and many other faith traditions. We prayed and celebrated together. At Communion, I mentioned something about reception. I encouraged anyone not receiving to come forward for a blessing. I would say almost fifty percent of those attending came forward for the blessing. That says so much about ISIS. They are destroying and killing anything

different from themselves, but that monastery stood for a welcome and a blessing right to the end.”

Now rubble, St. Elijah is still a holy site to Iraq’s war-weary Christians, whose population has dwindled from 1.3 million to 300,000 since the 2003 U.S. allied invasion in Operation Enduring Freedom.

Like those Christians, the Abbey itself long suffered the strains of war before its ultimate destruction. The Iraqi Republican Guard used the enclave as a tank barracks, and one of its walls was battered in combat with invading U.S. forces.

Occupying troops littered the grounds and crevices under the foundation, and they desecrated the walls with graffiti.

After learning that ISIS finally obliterated what was left, Father Whorton, now stationed at Fort Bragg, N.C., told the Great Britain’s national daily, The Guardian, “Why we treat each other like this is beyond me. Elijah the prophet must be weeping.” ✞

MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE

ARCHDIOCESE FOR THE MILITARY SERVICES, USA, PLEASE VISIT US AT: www.milarch.org

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Archdiocese to Hold Spring & Fall Discernment Retreats for Ordained Priests Considering Military Chaplaincy (continued from page 25)

During “For God and Country: a Call to Serve Those Who Serve,” AMS clergy, staff, and chaplains join Archbishop Broglio in giving participating priests a realistic picture of what it is like to be a military chaplain, and how to become one. The priests stay at the Washington Retreat House on Harewood Road in Northeast Washington, and from there, go on field trips to various military installations in the greater Washington area. In these real-life settings, they meet and talk with military officers, enlisted personnel, and other chaplains. The highlight of each gathering comes in the Pentagon Memorial Chapel at the 9/11 crash site, where the priests concelebrate Mass.

Priests interested in attending “For God and Country: a Call to Serve Those Who Serve” may apply at www.milarch.org under the “News and Events” tab. For those

selected, the AMS will pay all expenses, including travel and lodging.

To qualify for consideration: • the priest must have a minimum of two years of ministry in a parish; • the applicant must be a u.s. citizen or have a green card; priests with only a visa will not be considered; • preference will be given to those priests who can enter active-duty before their 42nd birthday.

Space is limited, so timely application is advised. While it may be too late to process applications for the April retreat, applications for the October retreat will be considered from mid-July through midSeptember. Any questions may be directed to the AMS Chancellor by email at Chancellor@milarch.org or telephone at (202) 719-3600. ✞

Arizona In January

(continued from page 13)

to Fort Huachuca. He is assigned as a Brigade Chaplain and he is also pastoring the Catholic Community. Father Uhde will soon reach the age of 62, the Mandatory Retirement Date (MRD). However, much to the delight of the Catholic community, he will retire and be recalled on the same day. This means that he can continue serving in the Army at Fort Huachuca for years to come. Father Mike Bucciarelli, the Pastor of Our Lady of the Mountains Church in Sierra Vista, is ready to assist Father Uhde. Father Mike grew up in an Army Family and was ordained a priest for Tucson in the chapel at Fort Huachuca.

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he Army, Navy, Air Force and Marine Corps are all represented along our southern border in the State of Arizona. It is my privilege to visit our stout-hearted, patriotic service members and their families every January. I thoroughly enjoy working with our zealous priests to provide a comprehensive religious support program for all of our Catholic constituents. I am already looking forward to my next visit in January! ✞ spring / easter 2016 |

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December 9, 2015

Most Reverend Timothy Paul Broglio, J.C.D. Archbishop of the Military Services P.O. Box 4469 Washington, DC 20017-0469 Dear Archbishop Broglio: I sincerely thank you for your generosity and that of the people of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, U.S.A. for your recent gift to Catholic Relief Services. For over 70 years, CRS has served the poorest of the poor around the world, providing relief to communities affected by natural and man-made disasters. CRS’ approach to shelter has positioned us as a leader after an emergency. Two years after Haiyan, more than 20,000 families in the Philippines have received support to rebuild and repair their homes. Your gift helps rush humanitarian aid and emergency relief to immediate and ongoing crises around the world.

This letter serves as a formal acknowledgement of your recent donation to Catholic Relief Services for the following gift(s) from the (Arch)diocese: • •

$ 90,892.30 for Nepal $ 3,489.65 for CRS Rice Bowl

On behalf of the CRS staff and those who will be touched by your gift(s), I thank you for leading the faithful in the Archdiocese for the Military Services, U.S.A. to live their faith in solidarity with the poor and marginalized people overseas.

May blessings overflow and thank you for your continued generosity.

Dr. Carolyn Y. Woo President and CEO CC: Dr. Mark Moitoza

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Save the Dates 22nd Annual Memorial Mass 15 MAY 2016 at 12:00 pm (NEW TIME THIS YEAR) | upper church Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception Washington, D.C. 20017 ———————————––––––––––————–––––——————————————

Warriors to Lourdes Pilgrimage 17-23 MAY 2016 Lourdes, France For more information visit: http://www.warriorstolourdes.com/en/index.html

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Father Capodanno Annual Mass 6 SEPTEMBER 2016 Tuesday, 6:30 pm Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception Crypt Church Washington, D.C. 20017 ———————————––––––––––————–––––——————————————

8th Annual Benefit for the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA FRIDAY, 11 NOVEMBER 2016 (NEW DATE THIS YEAR) Saint John Paul II National Shrine 3900 Harewood Road Northeast, Washington, D.C. spring / easter 2016 |

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— Archbishop Timothy P. Broglio

CPS

PAID PA

Nonprof it Org. Nonprofit rg US POSTAGE TA

“I wish you an abundance of Easter blessings, I pray that the Risen Lord will fill you and your loved ones with the serenity and peace that only He can give.”

“Serving Those Who Serve”

P.O. Box 4469 Washington, DC 20017-0469

Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA