SUMMER 2019
THE MAGAZINE OF THE ARCHDIOCESE FOR THE MILITARY SERVICES, USA
HONORING
THOSE WHO SERVE, HAVE SERVED, AND THEIR FAMILIES Summer 2019
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Dear Friends of the Archdiocese,
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ummer is at hand and people long for some time to rest, a change of pace, and the end of the school year. At the Edwin Cardinal O’Brien Pastoral Center, the pace slows just a bit, but plans for the autumn activities still keep us busy and the spirit builders for the Army Ten-Miler abound!
Convocations begin at the end of August and offer an opportunity for the priests who serve the people of the Archdiocese an opportunity to gather for prayer, renewal, and fellowship. It is always good to meet the priests in large numbers. Of course, we all wish that the numbers were even larger! Spring and summer mark some significant ordinations that interest the Archdiocese for the Military Services. Nine co-sponsored seminarians have been ordained to the diaconate and five to the priesthood. Five priests who were cosponsored seminarians in the past are ready for active-duty. Workers are available for the abundant harvest and we can all rejoice. As I have written before, summer in the military marks the PCS or permanent change of station season. It is the time for transfers and for that reason there are not too many pastoral visits that take place in the month of July or early August. However, the men and women who serve this country continue to be vigilant so as to protect the freedoms we enjoy. Troops are still deploying and families are keeping vigil. Excitement is building for two marriage retreats to be held in the fall. One will be in Texas and the other in Assisi. Please keep these couples and their families in your prayers. I am very grateful to the generous donors who have made these initiatives a reality. This issue of Salute will offer some of the highlights of the ordination and Chrism Masses, the celebration of Holy Week and Easter, tell of the annual Memorial Mass, and, as always, continue to tell the story of the chaplains and their activities. While I am never eager to add more travel to my schedule, I can rejoice in an up-coming visit to Rome and solidarity visits to some African Nations as Chairman of the Committee on International Justice and Peace. I hope that you will enjoy this issue. Thanking you for your continued support, I wish you a restful and renewing summer. Sincerely in Christ,
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The Most Reverend Timothy P. Broglio Archbishop
THE MAGAZINE OF THE ARCHDIOCESE FOR THE MILITARY SERVICES, USA
VOLUME 13 NUMBER 2 SUMMER 2019
TA B L E o f C O N T E N T S 4 From the Shadows to Light
Archbishop Timothy P. Broglio
Bishop F. Richard Spencer
Bishop Neal J. Buckon
Bishop William “Bill” Muhm
Bishop Joseph L. Coffey
Meet Erin Donlon
Taylor Henry
Taylor Henry
Taylor Henry
Cassandra “Casey” Bustamante
11 Pedal
14 The Six Chapel Visits: Hawaii 20 Planting Trees, Planting Seeds 24 Holding Fast
26 The Harvest Continues
28 2019 Memorial Mass Draws Hundreds 32 Auxiliary Bishops William J. Muhm and Joseph Coffey Ordained at the National Shrine 36 Archbishop Broglio Consecrates and Blesses Sacramental Oils at Chrism Mass 43 FOCUS at West Point
COVER: YOUNG MAN WELCOMING HIS FATHER HOME. PHOTO COURTSEY OF KRIZIA REDMOND.
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.
SUMMER 2019
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
Military Services, P.O. Box 4469, Washington, D.C., USA 20017-0469
Feedback, letters to the editor: editor@milarch.org | Website: www.milarch.org
Summer 2019
HONORING
THOSE WHO SERVE, HAVE SERVED, AND THEIR FAMILIES Summer 2019
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From the Shadows to Light BY: ARCHBISHOP TIMOTHY P. BROGLIO
ARCHBISHOP TIMOTHY P. BROGLIO (FAR LEFT) AT THE CATHEDRAL OF BAYEUX WITH CARDINAL OUELLET (FAR RIGHT), THE CANADIAN PREFECT OF THE CONGREGATION FOR BISHOPS, AS HE OFFERED A MEMORABLE REFLECTION ON PEACE ON THE 75TH ANNIVERSARY OF D-DAY.
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eaving the Cathedral of Bayeux on 6 June I was struck by the wording on a commemorative plaque. It praised the memory of the one million British men who died in defense of France in World War I. The number seemed so incredibly large for a population of 46,000,000 in 1914! War provokes somber reflections.
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It was a good reminder—one of many during those days in France on the occasion of the 75th anniversary of D-Day—that we must never tire in the quest for peace and understanding among peoples. Ministering to men, women, and families who serve in the U.S. Armed Forces or those who suffer as a result of wounds from past service continuously calls to mind the terrible price of war. We are urged to seek avenues of peace, which begin with each one of us and our ability to see Christ in the other. If we disagree we try to do so in a civilized manner. In the last issue of Salute, I concluded my article in the Holy Land. I returned from there in time to march with a small delegation, including cadets from West Point, in the annual tribute to life here in Washington close to the anniversary of the fateful decision of Roe vs. Wade. Keeping a promise made two years earlier, I then joined the faithful of Christ the King Parish, Tampa as Bishop Parkes blessed their renovated church. I was asked to bless the image of St. Martin of Tours, because so many military serving at MacDill Air Force Base participate in the life of the parish. In fact, several officers and enlisted participated in the Mass and the reception that followed. (continued on page 6)
ARCHBISHOP TIMOTHY P. BROGLIO (SECOND FROM RIGHT) AND FATHER JOSHUA JANKO WITH CADETS AT THE AIR FORCE ACADEMY, COLORADO SPRINGS, COLORADO.
Summer 2019
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From the Shadows to Light...
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After a quick stop at the Navy retreat in West Palm Beach, I returned to Washington and the opportunity to spend almost two weeks in the office. I must say that those extended periods of time in the same place are beneficial. More work gets done and the routine is a bit more regular. February progressed with continuing education on the evangelization of young people, a quick pastoral visit to West Point, and the annual MidAtlantic Conference in Baltimore. That last gathering offered an opportunity to meet with some catechists from the military installations in the region and, finally, a teleconference meeting of the Young Adult Board. This is the latest AMS attempt to reach out to the younger members of the flock and see how their needs can be met and how the Gospel might be better preached to that generation—the largest growing segment of the Archdiocese. On 20 February, I began a lengthy series of pastoral visits that included F.E. Warren AFB, St. John Vianney Seminary and Buckley AFB in Denver, the Air Force Academy and Community Center, Fort Carson, Peterson AFB, and Fairchild AFB. The last mentioned was my first visit to Spokane and to that air base. I was afforded the opportunity also to meet with an old friend who was a year behind me in the seminary. That trip also included the spring discernment retreat at St. Patrick’s Seminary in Menlo Park, California. A nephew, his wife, and the wife of another nephew came to that area of town for dinner with me. It was very good to see them. I finally darkened the door of the Pastoral Center on Tuesday 5 March so that I could keep my annual appointment for Ash Wednesday at the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda. It was good to spend some time with patients. In the afternoon after the visit and Mass at Walter Reed, I made my way to National Airport for a flight to Rome. The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) was sending me there to participate in a conference on
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global warming. The stay in Rome was very brief, but it is always good to return to a city in which I spent 19 years of my life! There was time for another first: I visited Whiteman AFB for the first time on 16 and 17 March. The community there welcomed me very warmly and I had an interesting tour of the B-2. I only asked one question to which the young airman could not respond for security reasons! From there I went to visit our three fine co-sponsored seminarians and one newly-ordained priest at Mundelein Seminary. It was very good to spend time with these fine young men who are so filled with enthusiasm. I do not know if I brought them anything, but they certainly replenished my hope in the future. With the seminary community I also celebrated Mass on the 18th anniversary of my ordination as an archbishop—I am finally of legal age! After another gathering in Chicago of the Lumen Christi Institute, I flew to Orange, California to celebrate Mass and have lunch with the AMS catechists and faithful gathered for the Los Angeles Religious Education Conference. It was a good opportunity to spend a few hours with those who animate the AMS communities in the area. Elsewhere in this issue you will read about the ordination of Bishops Muhm and Coffey. It was a privilege to ordain them to the fullness of the priesthood for the service of the faithful of this global archdiocese in a prayerful and splendid liturgy in the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception—just down the street from the Edwin Cardinal O’Brien Pastoral Center. The following Saturday I flew to Munich to participate in the retreat (training) organized in Garmisch for the Army priests in Europe. Monsignor John McLaughlin was the retreat master and inspired all with his message. (continued on page 8) Summer 2019
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From the Shadows to Light...
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Personally, I was delighted to see that this opportunity was being renewed after a few years that it had not been held. I did leave Germany in time to make Lenten confessions at Annapolis, pastoral visits to the Coast Guard Academy and the Submarine Base at Groton, and a dinner at the headquarters of the U.S. Bishops’ Conference in honor of the President of the Central African Republic. The AMS Chrism Mass also had an international flavor, because some representatives of the Venezuelan Bishops and the Director of Caritas Columbia joined us for that annual celebration in the crypt of the National Shrine. There was time for one more pastoral visit. On Palm Sunday weekend I made my way to snowy Ellsworth AFB in South Dakota. It was good to see the priest who is charged with pastoral care there, Monsignor Gerald McManus. He is a retired Air Force chaplain and was serving here in Washington when I assumed my responsibilities at the AMS. Since Easter Sunday I have been making pastoral visitations in the Eastern Vicariate, which has been without an Episcopal Vicar for a year. These took me to the Midwest, Puerto Rico, Langley AFB, Fort Eustis, King’s Bay Sub Base, Moody AFB, and the Air Force priests’ retreat near Tampa. Two rather moving moments in that time period were a meeting with survivors of sexual abuse at the Catholic University of America and a listening session at the Cathedral of St. Thomas More in Arlington in response to the Bishops’ pastoral letter on racism. These opportunities to hear first-hand about the harm done and the experience of people were eyeopening. They were nestled neatly among other pastoral obligations, but a reminder to learn from the past, to offer comfort, and to ensure that similar mistakes are not repeated.
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6-9 MAY 2019 USAF PRIESTS’ RETREAT HELD AT BETHANY CENTER IN LUTZ, FLORIDA.
A return to the Air Force Academy allowed me to see that area in the spring. The occasion was the baccalaureate Masses for the Class of 2019, but I also visited Minot and Grand Forks Air Force Bases. The last visit on the schedule was to Fort Drum. I can report that the snow has melted. The visit to Normandy on the 75th anniversary of D-Day was moving as the sight of those beaches hallowed by the blood of so many young men always is. It was my privilege to participate in several events on 5 June. The first stop was the monument to General Eisenhower where his granddaughter Susan and others shared reflections about his great leadership and courageous decision to launch the D-Day landings. Sporting a new Army uniform reminiscent of the World War II togs, Lt. General Christopher Cavoli, Commander of the U.S. Forces in Europe, reminded me that I had confirmed his two sons in two different locations over the years. It was also good to see retired General John Nicholson who had welcomed me to Afghanistan in 2016. (continued on page 10)
Summer 2019
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From the Shadows to Light
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The second stop was a commemoration of General De Gaulle’s first return to France in 1944. There a group of U.S. Sailors learned at the last minute that the recording of the Star Spangled Banner would not play. Consequently, they had to sing it a cappella. The men and women did well and the others from the States helped, as well. The final act of the vigil was a solemn Te Deum in the beautiful Abbaye des Hommes in Caen. There Cardinal Ouellet, the Canadian Prefect of the Congregation for Bishops, offered a memorable reflection on peace. It was my privilege to participate in this solemn moment of prayer. Having the Canadian invitation to their commemorative ceremonies and no U.S. invitation and no way to arrive at the former, I stayed in Bayeux and joined Bishop Boulanger at the Anglican commemoration in the Bayeux Catholic Cathedral. The ceremony attended by Prince Charles and Prime Minister May was very impressive. Several veterans of D-Day took active roles at the service and at the cemetery service afterwards. I did greet the Prince, his wife, and the Prime Minister at the door of the Cathedral. On the walk to the cemetery after the service, I spoke to some of the thirty U.S. military who were present. Needless to add, the rows of tombstones under which so many young people rest oblige one to pray for world peace. I began these lines on the somber note of the casualties of war and mentioned them again just now. Let me conclude on the positive note of the priestly ordinations of five men who have been co-sponsored. Fathers Cory Rouse, Chris Yakkel, Vinny Gillmore, Sean Koehr, and Matt Faucett will make important contributions to the Church and to the pastoral care of the men and women in uniform and their families. I give thanks for their yes and for the privilege of attending all but one of their ordinations. They make manifest the light and evoke hope for us all. V
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PEDAL BY BISHOP SPENCER
Confirmandi often question me about my hobbies. One of my favorite outdoor activities is bicycling and during this past year I have been concluding my confirmation homilies with a poem titled “Pedal”, which tells the story of companionship and the relationship between Jesus and myself while on a tandem bicycle. The short poem goes something like this (author unknown): At first I sat on the front seat; Jesus, the rear. I could not see Him but I knew He was there. I could especially feel His help when the road got steep. Then one day, Jesus changed seats with me. Suddenly everything went tops-turvy! You see, when I was on the front seat and in control, the ride was predictable- even boring at times. But when Jesus, now on the front seat, took over, I could hardly hold on. “This is madness,” I cried out. And Jesus turned towards me and smiled and said ...”PEDAL !” So I learned to shut up and pedal and to trust my bike companion. Oh, there are still times when I get scared. But Jesus just smiles, turns towards me, touches my hand — and simply says ... “PEDAL!” (continued on page 12) Summer 2019
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PEDAL
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The past spring ministry season offered many joys. Allow me to highlight the many retreats that we, the AMS, helped to conduct. Several of our chapels were able to offer two and three day retreats for those who are searching for spiritual renewal. Not only did we provide confirmation teen retreats, but also adult retreats. A very popular retreat location for Europe is Schoenstatt which consists of 96 buildings on a single mountain range to accommodate many diverse types of retreats. The Apostolic Movement of Schoenstatt is a Roman Catholic Marian Movement founded in Germany in 1914 by Father Joseph Kentenich. Father Kentenich saw the movement as being a means of spiritual renewal in the Catholic Church and it certainly has been for our AMS families and military chapels here in Europe. Another highlighted AMS family event this spring was our annual AMS Korea “FLAGS-IN� activity, under the leadership of Sir Knight
A MULTI-MILITARY CHAPEL CONFIRMATION RETREAT, SPRING, 2019
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UNITED NATIONS MEMORIAL CEMETERY IN BUSAN, REPUBLIC OF KOREA.
Tony Gray and the Knights of Columbus Military Councils, Korea. Families participated in “planting� American Flags at all of the tombs of the deceased from the United States armed forces. Truly this was once again a treasured 2019 Memorial Day weekend event. The United Nations Memorial Cemetery in Korea, located in the city of Busan, Republic of Korea, is a burial ground for United Nations Command casualties of the Korean War. It contains 2,300 graves set out in 22 sites designated by the nationalities of the servicemembers. This cemetery honors U.N. soldiers from 16 countries that were killed in battle during the Korean War from 1950-1953. This serene park spreads across a grassy plain area of 135,000 square meters. The U.N. Cemetery Busan is a beautiful and solemn reminder of the sacrifice made by the international forces fighting to save Korea from invasion during the Korean War. We are thankful to our U.S.A. military families and to the Knights of Columbus for helping us to remember the fallen on this Memorial Day. V
Summer 2019
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The Six Chapel Visit:
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BISHOP BUCKON CELEBRATES CONFIRMATION AT THE BISHOP JOSEPH W. ESTABROOK CHAPEL, USMCB KANEOHE BAY, HAWAII.
t is an honor for me to fly to Honolulu every Easter Season and visit our Catholic communities that worship in six military chapels on the island of Oahu. The first chapel was designed by and dedicated to my predecessor in the Western Vicariate, Bishop Joseph W. Estabrook. It is located in the center of Marine Corps Base – Hawaii that sits on beautiful, tropical Kaneohe Bay. The memorial plaque is near to the entrance informing all who enter that Bishop Estabrook was an outstanding Navy Chaplain and Bishop that served God and Country by ministering to Sailors and Marines. His last activeduty assignment before becoming a bishop was here at K-Bay. I thoroughly enjoyed seeing the faith
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and the enthusiasm of the four young men that were about to receive the sacrament of confirmation in this chapel. One candidate was an activeduty Marine from the Buckeye State, Ohio. Father Chris Keahi is the contract priest that concelebrated the Mass and presented the candidates for confirmation. The dinner afterwards in the fellowship hall was delectable and the congregation was convivial. The second chapel is located at the Aliamanu Military Reservation (AMR) and it is surrounded by military housing. The Catholic Women of the Chapel (CWOC) meet every Thursday morning for a communion – breakfast and their
Hawaii weekly program. Women from the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marine Corps are members. Some attend with their children. I was the celebrant and homilist for the Mass; and I also spoke about my vocation to the priesthood originating in the life of a Catholic family. The chapel’s CWOC weekly program provides the women of the military services an occasion for faith formation, an opportunity for spiritual growth, and a sense of community and wellbeing during their time on the island.
By Bishop Neal J. Buckon
Tripler Army Medical Center has a large chapel with a lanai that has an incredible panoramic view of the Pacific Ocean. Father Hank Albrecht met me in the parking lot and escorted me to the chapel to celebrate the noon daily Mass attended by health care providers, staff administrators, patients, and visitors. Father Hank has been the contract priest for Tripler Hospital for the past 10 years. I enjoy walking the hospital’s hallways with (continued on page 16)
BISHOP BUCKON CELEBRATES MASS WITH CWOC AT AMR CHAPEL.
Summer 2019
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CONFIRMATION AT SOLDIERS CHAPEL: SITTING: FATHER FISHER; STANDING L-R : DEACON VRAZEL, BISHOP BUCKON, FATHER DECHENNE.
Father Hank. He is affable, gracious, and knows no strangers. A superb hospital chaplain like Father Hank will minister to the hospital staff and visiting family members as well as the patients. The chapel at Schofield Barracks was my fourth destination. It is the spiritual center for the 25th Infantry Division (nicknamed “Tropic Lightning”). Chaplain (Captain)
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Jason Dechenne is an active-duty Catholic priest assigned to an aviation battalion at Wheeler Army Airfield. He served as the host for my visit to the Army. The confirmation Mass was an awesome celebration. Deacon Gary Vrazel, a retired Army aviation officer and Deacon of the Archdiocese of Mobile, proclaimed the gospel and assisted. (His granddaughter was one of those confirmed). Father Dechenne
Hawaii
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presented the confirmation candidates after the gospel. The candidates were from both the AMR Chapel (South) and the Schofield Barracks Chapel (North). Father Clarence L. Fisher, a former contract priest, concelebrated. In my homily I encouraged those to be confirmed to give witness to Jesus by being faithful, prayerful, moral, and charitable. The fifth and sixth chapels are located on Joint Base Pearl Harbor – Hickam (JBPHH). Father John Shimotsu (Diocese of Orange) is a Navy Captain who will begin retirement on 1 August 2019. Even though he was on terminal leave, he hosted my visit. Father Shimotsu, Father Keahi, and Father Victor
Lanuevo concelebrated the Mass of anticipation at the chapel near the Air Force runway. It was during this Mass that the Navy and Air Force candidates were sealed with the gift of the Holy Spirit. Father Shimotsu also joined me for the last Mass at the final chapel near the warships dockside at Pearl Harbor. After the celebration of confirmation on Saturday evening, JBPHH had a Catholic community dinner during which all of the volunteers at the two chapels were recognized. I had the opportunity to thank volunteers for giving witness to Jesus Christ (continued on page 18)
BISHOP BUCKON WITH ACOLYTES AT JBPHH VOLUNTEER RECOGNITION DINNER.
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Hawaii
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by their loyalty and fidelity to His teaching; their commitment as steadfast missionary disciples and their solidarity with the universal Church. I also had the opportunity to recognize Father Shimotsu’s life-long service. Father Shimotsu graduated from the Virginia Military Institute in 1985 and served in the Navy as a Surface Warfare Officer. During this period of time he went through the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) and discerned a vocation to the priesthood. He became a Navy Chaplain Candidate while he was studying for the priesthood at Mount Angel Seminary. He returned to active-duty status as a priest and Navy chaplain in 1997. He had an extraordinary career in the Navy. His final assignment was as the Command Chaplain for the U.S. Indo – Pacific Command, Camp Smith, Hawaii. The Department of Defense recognized Father Shimotsu’s distinguished service
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L-R: BISHOP BUCKON, FATHER SHIMOTSU.
to the Navy and to the Country by awarding him the Defense Superior Service Medal! The citation on the award states that, “He masterfully led 1,000 religious support team members supporting 377,800 personnel across four components and three sub-unified commands, comprising an area of responsibility spanning more than half the globe.” The pastoral visit to JBPHH on the weekend of the Fourth Sunday of Easter afforded me the opportunity to congratulate Father Shimotsu
on such a prestigious award and on behalf of Archbishop Broglio and the Archdiocese for the Military Services thank him for his stellar service to God and Country over several decades. I enjoy visiting the Catholic faithful at our military chapels. It is clear to see that the Holy Spirit is the operative force in the life of the worshipping communities and their priests. Our military chaplains work hard but they get to go to work every day
with people filled with faith, hope, and love. Yes, the Catholic faithful on a military base love God, they love their Country, and they love their chapel communities of faith. The six chapel visit to Hawaii may leave me somewhat physically tired, but, I am always renewed in the Spirit when I leave the island! V
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PLANTING TREES, PLANTING SEEDS
BY AUXILIARY BISHOP WILLIAM “BILL” MUHM
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On 25 March 2019, Archbishop Broglio ordained Bishop Joe Coffey and me auxiliary bishops for the Archdiocese for the Military Services. This summer I will start my new job as Vicar for Europe and Asia. That has left me with most of the spring as a training period. During my “spring training� I was able to assist Archbishop Broglio by visiting seven installations in the Eastern United States to offer Mass and the sacrament of confirmation: Norfolk Naval Station, VA; Fort Leonard Wood, MO; Scott AFB, IL; Offutt AFB, NE; McConnell AFB, KS; Hanscom AFB, MA; and Camp Lejeune, NC. I celebrated Easter Triduum liturgies at the U.S. Air Force Academy. I represented the Archbishop at ordination Masses for three AMS co-sponsored seminarians: On 18 May, when Father Corey Rouse was ordained a priest; on 11 May, when Reverend Mr. Steven Booth was ordained a deacon; and on May 25, when Reverend Mr. Daniel Duplantis was ordained a deacon. I was able to visit Most Precious Blood Parish in Walden, N.Y., to offer Mass and the sacrament of confirmation. I was at Most Precious Blood as Parish Administrator when I got the call to serve AMS as an auxiliary bishop. It was my joy to visit my old parish and confirm the young men and women whom I had gotten to know during my few short months there.
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PLANTING TREES, PLANTING SEEDS...
continued from page 21
I was also able to visit my Alma Mater, St. Joseph Seminary in Yonkers, N.Y. I am a 1995 graduate of St. Joseph. On 11-12 April I returned for evening prayer, a festive “welcome back� dinner, a Q & A session with the seminarians, Mass on Friday morning, and to plant a flowering plum tree. It has been a tradition at St. Joseph Seminary for many years that visiting bishops plant a tree on the Seminary grounds. When I was a seminarian there from 1991-1995, I wandered the grounds and read the plaques at the base of many trees that had been planted through the decades by bishops, archbishops, cardinals, and even future popes. I was very honored to plant a tree myself. Planting the tree reminded me that every baptized Christian is a disciple, called to plant seeds. We plant the seeds of the Gospel in the minds and hearts of everyone whom we meet, by living holy, Christ-centered lives. As our Lord says, the Kingdom of Heaven is like a mustard seed. It is the smallest of seeds, yet when full grown it is the largest of plants. (Mt. 13:31-32). May the Lord strengthen all of His disciples in the armed forces, VA Medical Centers, and U.S. embassies around the world to plant seeds of holiness in those global vineyards by living holy, Christ-centered lives. Please pray for all of us at AMS! V
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For more information visit:
www.milarch.org/ATM or email:
advancement@milarch.org Summer 2019
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HOLDING FAST BY BISHOP JOSEPH L. COFFEY
RECRUIT GRADUATION FROM MCRD FRIDAY, 5 MARCH 2019. L – R: MR. TERRY CASTER, BGEN RYAN HERITAGE, CG AT MCRD, AND BISHOP JOSEPH COFFEY
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s many of you know, Bishop Bill Muhm and I were ordained on 25 March 2019 in the beautiful Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, D.C. It was a magnificent liturgy attended by clergy, laity, many family members, and friends from all over the country whom I met as a Navy chaplain. As well as many of our AMS friends, supporters, and readers of our Salute magazine. In my last article, I told the story of how I was informed of the Holy Father's appointment to be an Auxiliary Bishop for the AMS and how much of a surprise that was to me when I got that call from the Papal Nuncio, Archbishop Pierre. When I have re-told this story I like to quote the Blessed Mother, when I said, "How can this be?" I said that because I was not even eligible to retire from active-duty for another year and a half. Everyone in the military and many civilians know the magic number is 20. We need 20 good years on active-duty to be eligible to retire and I had about 18.5 years when I received the news of the appointment.
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What this means is that after a few remarkable days before and after the ordination, I was right back to work at my current active-duty assignment as a the Command Chaplain at MCRD, the Marine Corps Recruit Depot, aka Marine Corp Boot camp in San Diego, Calif. I still wear the same military uniforms but I have added a Bishops' ring. Some of the officers and staff on base call me "Bishop Coffey" but most still call me by the more familiar, "Chaps." I still hear confessions and say Mass with our contract priest, Father Michael Booth, on Sunday mornings for the Catholic recruits. I still attend meetings with the Commanding General and the Chief of Staff, supervise seven other chaplains on base, and go to the boot camp graduations for the new Marines. Those ceremonies are always so inspiring. To witness the transformation of civilians to new Marines and to be part of that as the support staff is a real honor. I also continue to help out on the weekends at the local parish of Sacred Heart in San Diego, something that many activeduty military chaplains have always done. As a group we like to keep busy, and there is always a need to help out the local priests who are often by themselves in busy parishes. Since I have returned to MCRD from the ordination in Washington, D.C., several months ago, the question I get from many people, military and civilian is a variation of, "What is your status, when are you leaving us here at MCRD, and when do you begin your new job as a Bishop?" That, my friends, is the million dollar question! I have formally petitioned the Secretary of the Navy to allow me to retire a little bit early so that I can begin my new role with the VA Medical Center priest-chaplains and let Bishop Higgins enjoy his well-earned retirement. We have already begun some of the turnover training and I realize that there will be much to learn. Thankfully, he is a wonderful and kind bishop who has always been a friend to me since I first became a chaplain candidate in 1992. I am still focused on doing a good job here at MCRD and finishing strong but I am also very excited to represent Archbishop Broglio and the AMS at the upcoming 61st annual International Military Pilgrimage in Lourdes, France, with military from 40 Nations. I also look forward to a few Diaconate ordinations of some of our co-sponsored seminarians. Thank you Salute readers for your amazing and generous support of the AMS. Hopefully, by the next issue I will know when I can begin my new duties as one of your Auxiliary Bishops with the AMS. God bless you. Bishop Joe Coffey aka "Chaps" V Summer 2019
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THE HARVEST CONTINUES...
NAME: Erin Donlon (ARCH)DIOCESE / RELIGIOUS COMMUNITY: Diocese of Portland Maine ARMED FORCES BRANCH: Navy RANK: ENSIGN COLLEGE(S) / UNIVERSITY(IES) / SEMINARY(IES) ATTENDED (DEGREES AWARDED): Maine Maritime Academy, Maine (Marine Systems Engineering); Mount Saint Mary’s Seminary, Maryland HIGH SCHOOL(S) ATTENDED: Home School HOBBIES: Any sports or outdoor activities TEAM SPORTS: Cross Country, Swimming
WHEN WAS THE FIRST TIME YOU THOUGHT YOU MIGHT HAVE A VOCATION TO THE PRIESTHOOD? I felt I have had the calling for a long time, probably since I received my First Communion. I continually rejected that calling until I went to college. WHO OR WHAT EVENTS INFLUENCED YOUR DISCERNMENT JOURNEY? I would say the most influential event that I went to was an ordination Mass for one of the priests in my home diocese. I was originally not even supposed to go to it because I was on an overseas internship, but I suffered an injury that sent me home (God can work in mysterious ways). I was truly in awe of the Sacrament. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SCRIPTURE PASSAGE, WHY? My favorite passage is Matthew 16:24-26. This passage tells us of the challenge we must face if we are to truly follow Christ. I feel this challenge is made more difficult as society today mocks the teachings of the Church.
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HOW DID YOU COME TO KNOW JESUS CHRIST PERSONALLY? I came to know Jesus through the Sacrament of the Eucharist. About three years ago, I decided to approach the Eucharist in a more childlike manner. I immediately found a profound sense of humility and eagerness to receive the Eucharist. WHAT SPIRITUAL EVENTS OR ACTIVITIES HELPED YOU DEVELOP AND SHARE YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH CHRIST AND HIS CHURCH? I have been on various retreats for the diocese, but the single most spiritual event that has had the greatest impact on me was the Ordination Mass for one of the priests of the diocese. I was incredibly moved by the Sacrament, especially when I recognized the degree of humility required to become a priest. WHAT SAINTS OR CHURCH LEADERS INSPIRED YOUR DISCERNMENT JOURNEY? I have always been inspired by the actions of priests, especially military chaplains such as Father Vincent Capadonno and Father Emil J. Kapaun. St. John Vianney’s humility and simplicity has been inspirational and St. John Paul II leadership has been motivating. WHAT WAS YOUR BACKGROUND BEFORE APPLYING TO BE A SEMINARIAN? I was home schooled through high school. After high school, I attended Maine Maritime Academy and majored in Marine Systems Engineering. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SPIRITUAL BOOK? The Introduction to the Devout Life by St. Francis de Sales WHO ARE YOUR HEROES OR PEOPLE YOU SIGNIFICANTLY ADMIRE? My heroes are a Father Vincent Capadonno, Father Emil J Kapaun. I admire General James Mattis and Cardinal Sarah HOW WOULD YOU CHARACTERIZE YOUR PRAYER LIFE? I would characterize my pray life as an ongoing work in progress. Seminary has been very influential in improving my prayer life. V
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2019 Memorial Mass Draws Hundreds BY TAYLOR HENRY
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early 1,000 Catholics gathered in the Great Upper Church of the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception on Sunday, 19 May, for a 4:30 p.m. Mass to honor the men and women who have served in the United States Armed Forces, living and deceased. The 25th Annual Memorial Mass of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA (AMS), was attended by service members from all branches of the U.S. Armed Forces, senior military officers, enlisted, veterans, various members of the Military from a variety of Embassies, and family members including Gold Star Families.
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The opening procession preceded a posting of the colors and the singing of the National Anthem. At the ambo, His Excellency, the Most Reverend Timothy P. Broglio, Archbishop for the Military Services, observed how authentic service to the Nation is an expression of fidelity to Christ’s command to love: “You know that this annual celebration is an occasion to pray especially for the eternal repose of those who have fallen either on the battlefield or years later. We pray in a particular way for those retired chaplains and other priests who have passed away since our last gathering. We also honor those who serve in the military, those who serve beyond our borders, the Veterans, and those who are wounded in body and spirit. We beg divine mercy upon all of them and we ask for the stamina to imitate their love. “They exhibit an understanding of the divine commandment, so fundamental and emblematic of the Christian community for all times and in all places. Love makes evident the presence of the Lord and His community. The sacrifice of the military also pushes us forward in the quest for a lasting peace. It is impossible to look at the faces of young men and women committed to bearing arms in service of the Nation and not shudder at the tragedy of losing even one young life.” Archbishop Broglio implored the faithful to love as Jesus did, universally, and “with perfect generosity,” even to the point of washing the feet of Judas, his betrayer. “We cannot simply follow the world, divide people into camps, and choose which ones merit our love and which not…. Certainly those we honor today served the Nation and put their lives in peril without knowing
(continued on page 30)
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Memorial Mass...
from page 29
BY TAYLOR HENRY
everyone they were serving: whether they were good or bad. They simply served all.” To read the full text of Archbishop Broglio’s homily, visit milarch. org/archbishop-homilies/. The Memorial Mass concluded with the sounding of Taps. Both EWTN and CatholicTV televised the Mass in its entirety on Memorial Day, Monday, 27 May. The EWTN broadcast followed a showing of the network’s new “Frontline Fathers” documentary about the ongoing service of Catholic U.S. Army chaplains in Korea. Order a copy at ewtnreligiouscatalogue.com.
ARCHBISHOP TIMOTHY BROGLIO PREACHES HOMILY AT 25TH ANNUAL MEMORIAL MASS ON 19 MAY 2019 IN WASHINGTON, DC.
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ANNUAL BENEFIT DINNER
You are invited! 11th Annual Benefit Dinner Saturday, 23 November 2019 Saint John Paul II National Shrine 3900 Harewood Road, N.E. Washington, D.C. 20017 The evening will begin with the Celebration of the Eucharist at 5:00 p.m., followed by a cocktail reception and sit-down dinner. Space is limited. Advanced ticket purchase is required for the Annual Benefit Dinner. In the event of a sellout, a waiting list will be created. Tickets will not be available at the door.
Deadline to register is Friday, 8 November. www.milarch.org/annual-benefit Attire: Black tie optional For event information, please contact Sal Perez at advancement@milarch.org or (202) 719-3652. For sponsorship information, please contact Mary Lavin atmlavin@milarch.org or (440) 223-6482 Summer 2019
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Auxiliary Bishops William Muhm and Joseph Coffey Ordained at National Shrine BY TAYLOR HENRY
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he Archdiocese for the Military Services (AMS), USA, now has two new auxiliary bishops. Bishops William (Bill) J. Muhm and Joseph L. Coffey were ordained 25 March—the Solemnity of the Annunciation of the Lord— at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception. His Excellency, the Most Reverend Timothy P. Broglio, Archbishop for the Military Services, served as principal celebrant and ordaining Prelate before a congregation of more than 1,200 on a beautiful spring afternoon in Washington, D.C.
His Eminence, Timothy Cardinal Dolan, Archbishop of Bishop Muhm’s home Archdiocese of New York, and the Most Reverend Charles Chaput, O.F.M. Cap., Archbishop of Bishop Coffey’s home Archdiocese of Philadelphia, served as principal co-consecrators. Other prelates participating in the solemn rite included Justin Cardinal Rigali, Archbishop Emeritus of Philadelphia; Edwin Cardinal O’Brien, Grand Master of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem and former Archbishop for the Military Services, USA; Archbishop Christophe Pierre, Apostolic Nuncio to the United States; and AMS Auxiliary Bishops Richard B. Higgins, F. Richard Spencer, and Neal J. Buckon. A total of 15 bishops concelebrated the Mass, as did 147 priests. In his homily, Archbishop Broglio offered a candid kind of job description for the new leadership role Bishops Muhm and Coffey will assume in the AMS’s mission to bring Jesus Christ to those who serve: “Episcopal (continued on page 34) Summer 2019
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Auxiliary Bishops Ordained... CONTINUED FROM PAGE 33
ministry in this global archdiocese is not easy,” he said. “Travel dominates the weeks. Bureaucracy muddies the relationship between bishop and priest. Many masters compete for attention. Through it all, you must imitate the Blessed Virgin by keeping your eyes on the truly important One and His commission to you to preach the Gospel to the men, women, and children entrusted to our care… You and I believe that we have a fundamental irreplaceable gift to offer to our Nation and to the People of God. Enshrined in the Constitution is the freedom of Religion and this archdiocese was erected so that it might sustain that freedom for Catholics in the military. We thank them for their giving, by giving of ourselves. We recognize their service by assuring adequate pastoral care in the medical centers of the Department of Veterans’ Affairs.” To read the full text of Archbishop Broglio’s homily, visit milarch.org/archbishop-homilies/. Following an ancient custom of the Church, Archbishop Broglio questioned the bishops-elect about their resolve to uphold the faith and discharge their duties in the episcopal ministry. The bishops-elect lay prostrate while all gathered joined in prayer for them and the Church. Deacons held the Book of the Gospels over the bishops-elect while Archbishop Broglio and his brother bishops recited the ancient prayer of ordination. The head of each new bishop was anointed with chrism, and he received the Book of the Gospels, his bishop’s ring, miter, and pastoral staff or crosier. “Lean on the crosier you are about to receive,” Archbishop Broglio said in his homily, “but also use it to snare the lost sheep.… Allow the miter to remind you of the third dimension of your new ministry: to sanctify. Help our secular world rediscover a sense of the sacred.” Bishop Muhm will serve as Archbishop Broglio’s Episcopal Vicar for U.S. Military installations in Europe and Asia. He replaces Bishop Spencer, who is moving back to the U.S. to serve as Episcoal Vicar for the eastern part of the country. Bishop Coffey will serve as Episcopal Vicar for Veterans Affairs, replacing Bishop Higgins, who is retiring. V
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The AMS and SALUTE Take Home Ten Journalism Awards from 2019 Catholic Media Conference
BY TAYLOR HENRY
The AMS and its quarterly news magazine, SALUTE, garnered ten journalism awards from the Catholic Press Association (CPA) of the United States and Canada at the organization’s 2019 Catholic Media conference held 18-21 June in St. Petersburg, Fla. That is the largest number of CPA awards the AMS has ever received in a single year. Most notably, SALUTE Editor Jo Ann Redmond earned an honorable mention in the Editor of the Year category in the All Member Division. The CPA represents more than 800 publishers and freelance members throughout North America. Many of those operate with much bigger staffs, budgets, and resources than does SALUTE. SALUTE also placed third in the following categories: Magazine of the Year (Diocesan); Magazine of the Year (Mission Diocese); Best Cover (color) [SALUTE, Summer 2018]; Best Cover (black and white) [SALUTE, Fall 2018]; Best Bishop’s Column in a Diocesan Magazine (Bishop Richard B. Higgins); and Most Effective Use of Small Space. SALUTE runs a circulation of more than 50,000 readers worldwide. Its online edition is published at www.milarch.org/publications. The AMS also won honorable mentions for Best Website, Margaret “Meg” Betit, Webmaster (www.milarch.org); and Best News Release (“100-YearOld Veteran Remembered at Memorial Mass”) and Best e-Newsletter (e-TTENTION, September 2018 edition) by Taylor Henry, Public Affairs and Media Relations. The CPA awards contest is held annually. This year’s winners were chosen among more than 2,200 entries. V Spring 2019
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Archbishop Broglio Consecrates and Blesses Sacramental Oils at Chrism Mass By Taylor Henry
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acred oils for sacramental and ecclesiastical use over the coming year on U.S. military sites the world over and in the nation’s VA Medical Centers were blessed and consecrated on 9 April at the annual Chrism Mass of the Archdiocese for the Military Services (AMS), USA. During the Mass, Catholic U.S. Military chaplains and other priests also renewed their ministerial commitment.
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Wearing the miter and holding the pastoral staff, Archbishop Timothy P. Broglio, preached from the presider’s chair in the Crypt Church of the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception. Noting that one purpose of the Mass was to celebrate the priesthood, Archbishop Broglio said in part: “The last years have not been easy for us. Our mistakes, indifference,
and lack of transparency have been continually thrust into the spotlight. Recommitment to our priestly promises in this context is also a recommitment to protect the innocent, be they children, minors, or vulnerable adults. It is a recommitment to live the promise of celibacy in a transparent way and to denounce evil when it occurs. “However to reduce this celebration to a simple welling in those questions would be to ignore the amazing ministry accomplished by the priests who serve the archdiocese. Their willingness to be where soldiers, sailors, marines, coast guardsmen, and airmen are, to counsel them, to bring them the sacraments, and to teach them the ways of faith must also be celebrated. Tonight we give thanks for what they have done and for what they will do.” Read the full text of Archbishop Broglio’s homily at milarch.org/archbishoppresentations/. Following the renewal of priestly commitment, His Excellency raised hands over three silvercolored urns brought to the foot of the altar. He blessed the Oil of Catechumens, the Oil of the Infirm,
and he combined balsam with oil forming the Chrism, he then breathed over the mixture in the sign of the Cross as part of the consecration rite. Dozens of priests and chaplains joined Auxiliary Bishops Richard B. Higgins, F. Richard Spencer, Neal J. Buckon, William (Bill) J. Muhm, and Joseph L. Coffey in concelebrating. They included the Vicar General and Moderator of the Curia, Monsignor John J.M. Foster; the Judicial Vicar, Father Christopher Armstrong; the Chancellor, Father Robert R. Cannon; and the Vocations Director, Father Aidan Logan, O.C.S.O. Also concelebrating this year were two Bishops from Venezuela, who were in Washington for a visit. They included the Most Reverend Roberto Lückert León, Archbishop-emeritus of Coro, and the Most Reverend José Trinidad Fernandez Angulo, General Secretary of the Venezuelan Bishops’ Conference. The Reverend Mr. Sean Koehr and Deacon Timothy Wolfkill assisted at the altar. Other co-sponsored seminarians served the Mass. V
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MILITARY COUNCIL OF CATHOLIC WOMEN DONATES $50,000 FOR ENDOWED SEMINARIAN SCHOLARSHIP BY TAYLOR HENRY
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ith the United States Military facing a desperate shortage of Catholic chaplains, the Military Council of Catholic Women (MCCW) is stepping up to make a difference. The MCCW recently donated $50,000 to establish an endowed scholarship for seminarians in formation for priesthood and military chaplaincy. The Archdiocese for the Military Services (AMS), USA, received the check on Thursday, 25 April. In a 3 May “thank you” letter to Ms. Elizabeth Tomlin of the MCCW, His Excellency, the Most Reverend Timothy P. Broglio, Archbishop for the Military Services, expressed his appreciation for the substantial donation. “You recognize first-hand the importance of priests for the military,” he wrote, “and you do so much to care for us and to work diligently in favor of the continued formation of Catholic women.… So often in visiting the Catholics entrusted to my pastoral care, I am blessed to meet the MCCW or to benefit from their interest. Now you have added another dimension to that activity…. Know that your intentions will be remembered at Holy Mass.” The donation brings to 18 the total number of seminarian scholarships established through the AMS since 2014, raising nearly $2.2 million in selfsustaining support for AMS Vocations and the Co-Sponsored Seminarian Program (CSP), a vocations partnership set up more than 30 years ago between the Archdiocese and cooperating U.S. dioceses and religious communities, which supply priests for military service. The CSP has grown by leaps and bounds since 2008 when only seven men were enrolled in the program. Now, 48 co-sponsored seminarians from 35 dioceses are studying in 21 seminaries to become chaplains.
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Under the CSP, the home diocese or religious community of each cosponsored seminarian shares with the AMS the cost of the seminarian’s five year formation, each paying 50% of tuition, room and board, and other expenses. Once the priest is ordained, he typically serves for three years in his home diocese or community before his bishop or religious superior releases him for full-time military service. When the priest leaves the military, he returns to the diocese or community for further pastoral work. So both the AMS and the partner diocese or community benefit from his vocation. This year, through the CSP, five new priests will be ordained—as well nine transitional deacons on track to become priests next year—all hoping to become military chaplains after the initial period of home diocesan pastoral service. Five priests from the program will also begin active-duty service this year. The AMS shoulders an average cost per seminarian of $20,000 a year. That amounts to $100,000 per seminarian over the course of his five-year formation. At the current rate, the AMS will incur nearly $5 million in seminary and priestly formational expenses over the next five years alone. The AMS receives no funding from the military or the government. Ms. Mary Lavin, Executive Director of Major Gifts and Planned Giving, says the generous gift from the MCCW, and the generosity of all who have established a named and endowed scholarship, will continue to help the AMS “meet its immediate and increasing costs for the Co-Sponsored Seminarian Program while building a crucial and self-sustaining source of funding for years to come.” Anyone wishing to establish a named and endowed scholarship may contact Ms. Mary Lavin at mlavin@milarch.org or (440) 223-6482. Anyone wishing to make a donation to the AMS and its Vocations Program may do so at www. milarch.org/donate, or may contribute to the 2019 National Collection for the AMS. For details about the 2019 National Collection, visit www.milarch. org/nationalcollection. Young men interested in discerning a priestly vocation, and the vocation within a vocation to serve those who serve in the U.S. Military, can find more information at www.milarch.org/vocations, or may contact Father Aidan Logan by email at vocations@milarch.org. V Summer 2019
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Witnesses of Encuentro BY JOSÉ AMAYA, DIRECTOR OF FAITH FORMATION
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n Grapevine, Texas on 20-23 September 2018, the National Fifth Encuentro of Hispanic/Latino Ministry gathered over 3,000 delegates, from dioceses and organizations throughout the United States. Archbishop Timothy P. Broglio and Bishop Neal Buckon accompanied the AMS delegation. The four-year process of grassroots prayerful discernment of young adults will be shared in a national document outlining goals for 28 ministerial areas including youth-young adults, evangelization/catechesis, and vocations. Here are testimonials from the AMS delegates!
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“Civilian dioceses must consider that amidst the peripheries of their own parishes lies one behind a gate. The military Catholic communities are a margin within the local diocese. Military installations need to build bridges with local dioceses.” –Dennise Santos, Nellis AFB, Nevada “I'm not Hispanic and don’t speak Spanish, but I can relate as a servicemember. I go to a new place and yearn to continue my faith journey and family traditions but there’s no welcoming community for me. I’ve discovered that this parallels to Hispanics who struggle with challenges such as immigration.” – Zack MacKeller, Gowen (Boise), Idaho (continued on page 42) RIGHT TO LEFT FRONT ROW: NATASHA KYLES, SAN JUANA MORANTE, JOSÉ AMAYA RIGHT TO LEFT MIDDLE ROW: FATHER JESÚS NAVARRETE, LINDA MARTINEZ-GREER, GRISELDA ESCOBAR, ELIZABETH DURAN, ARCHBISHOP TIMOTHY P. BROGLIO, DENNISE SANTOS BACK ROW: ZACK MACKELLER
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Witnesses of Encuentro
FROM PAGE 41
“Having grown up as a migrant farmworker and experiencing life as a military spouse, I have witnessed first-hand the parallel lives both lead. In both, the families migrate often having to transplant their lives. One’s identity almost becomes threatened. However, a constant in both is our Catholic faith, a family within a family. V-Encuentro helped me re-connect with my roots. V-Encuentro allowed me to encounter others who unknowingly experience what military [Hispanic/Latino] Catholics experience, especially the young adults.” –Griselda Escobar, Edwards AFB, California “My topic of discussion during the Ministerial Breakout session was higher education. Several speakers shared their stories of accompaniment and overcoming cultural obstacles. A DACA recipient shared her journey to graduate before her status expires. It was inspiring to see and hear this intelligent young woman speak to the power of accompaniment.” –Natasha Kyles, Fort Huachuca, Arizona “I attended the V Encuentro with questions and doubts. I am not young. However, this experience gives me great hope for the Church. Encuentro has recharged the Church in vibrant ways.” –Linda Martinez-Greer, JB Lewis McChord, Washington “Bishop Oscar Cantú said "Let’s not become tumble weeds.” This is a time for you and me to dig deep, dig deep so that our roots may find living water. I told myself to go out and make the young adults feel wanted and guide them to the living water.” –San Juana Morante, Schofield Barracks, Hawaii “We must be truly rooted in our faith. Archbishop Gomez reminded us that, ‘Jesus entrusted the mission of his church in the New World to a layperson.’ God created us to be saints. I am proud to be Catholic and no one can ever take that away from me.” –Elizabeth Duran, NSA Naples, Italy The Delegates are grateful to the Archdiocese and its benefactors for their prayers and support. The process of discerning implementation of the outcomes is pending a regional training of Delegates this coming Fall, 2019. V
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WEST POINT FOCUS TEAM WITH SEVERAL CADETS
FOCUS at West Point BY CASSANDRA “CASEY” BUSTAMANTE
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or this article, I decided to interview Jessica Laurenzano, the Fellowship of Catholic University Students (FOCUS) Team Director at the U.S. Military Academy (USMA), West Point, N.Y. In Jessica’s role as the Team Director, she leads the four-person missionary team at the service of the Catholic cadets at West Point. Jessica was first introduced to FOCUS when she was studying for her undergraduate degree at the University of Maryland University College when she participated in a freshmen Bible
study group and, soon after, in discipleship with another FOCUS student leader. She was a daily Mass-goer, but shared that her big conversion happened during a spring retreat her junior year. Throughout this retreat, the students learned how each person’s identity is wrapped up in joy and it was during this experience that she really let Jesus speak to her heart and heal her. The following semester, her senior year, she decided to apply to become a FOCUS missionary and was accepted in her final semester. (continued on page 44) Summer 2019
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FOCUS at West Point ... CONTINUED FROM PAGE 43 team and cadets are now at a point where they have a clear idea of what a disciple is—it is more than a welcoming place to encounter God. It goes into how the encounter can be shared with others.
L-R: JESSICA WITH 2ND CLASS CADET, SAM (NO LAST NAME GIVEN)
She began her missionary service at West Point which was also the first year of FOCUS’ presence at this academy. When asked what the experience has been like serving cadets over the last four years, Jessica said that it has been a privilege. She has grown so much in her service. Initially, the students were really excited to have FOCUS there and that excitement has grown into several opportunities over the years for the cadets to encounter the Lord. The FOCUS
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The FOCUS team serves in parallel to the Catholic Campus Ministry present at West Point. When asked how the missionaries first meet cadets, Jessica shared that the team is not allowed on campus much. They are able to meet cadets at the end of Mass and they do tabling events at the beginning of each school year to let people know they are there. The team connects with cadets at these points and invites them out for coffee to start a friendship. Due to the training environment of West Point, the availability of cadets is fairly limited. Still, the missionaries find pockets of time and challenge cadets to evaluate their use of time. The value of fighting for this time can really challenge the cadets to practice making prayer and Bible study a priority in their lives even beyond the Academy setting.
FOCUS recently hosted its biennial SEEK conference, 3-7 January 2019, in Indianapolis. Jessica and her team accompanied 22 cadets from West Point for the conference. Each cadet had to work diligently to get permission to attend SEEK as it crept into the beginning of the spring semester. The overall experience was great for them; pockets of communities formed from SEEK. There was great conversation and the keynotes/ breakouts afforded the cadets opportunities to learn how to pray, discuss controversial topics, and, most importantly, how to live out discipleship. Discipleship is something Jessica and her team get to do on a routine basis with the cadets. She shared that FOCUS has supported the cadets in developing a deeper conviction in the Lord and the cadets realize their capability to evangelize. Currently, there are 23 cadets in discipleship and 10 Bible study groups. They have understood the concept of spiritual multiplication and
sense the Lord’s call to their role in it. They see the world as their mission field, where the Lord leads them. Jessica sees this conviction in the cadets currently studying and also in those who have graduated. Even the cadets who are not immersed in the campus ministry life know there are missionaries on-site whom they can go to, to process an experience of Christ they are having. When asked what is different about West Point from other campuses, she noted culture and the caliber of the young people. She appreciates the high-speed nature as it resonates with her. It is apparent that the cadets have a heart of service. The characteristics needed to be a cadet are the same tenets needed for discipleship. This spring semester, the FOCUS team will be leading 10 students on two mission trips...Prague and the Holy Land. Let us pray for the cadets that the mission trips may be the forum where the Lord enlivens their faith. V
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The Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA
ARE YOU A MEMBER OF THE AMS FAITHFUL? This November make an online gift at
www.milarch.org/amsappeal to support the Archdiocese as it participates in the USCCB approved Triennial National Collection to be taken in most dioceses throughout the country
the weekend of 9-10 November. All proceeds from the Triennial National Collection, and the AMS’s own appeal, will provide critical financial support for all AMS programs and services. Help the AMS continue to minister to you and family!
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Save the Dates Memorial Mass for Father Vincent R. Capodanno, MM, Servant of God 4 September 2019, 6:30 p.m. Crypt Church, Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception 400 Michigan Avenue N.E., Washington, D.C. 20017
Mass and Reception to Benefit the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA 21 September 2019 The Center for Pastoral Leadership, Wickliffe, Ohio
AMS Marriage Enrichment Retreats
27-29 September 2019 Washington, D.C. Christ the King Retreat Center, San Angelo, Texas
Annual Pilgrimage for the Sea Services Sunday, 6 October 2019, 3:00 p.m. The National Shrine of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton 339 South Seton Avenue, Emmitsburg, Md. 21727 Complimentary dinner afterward
Army Ten-Miler
13 October 2019 To register for Charity Team AMS, go here https://www.classy.org/campaign/2019-army-ten-miler/c216687 To sponsor Team AMS, go https://actionpage.causeview.com/actionpage/90010201922032812
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48 NON PROFIT ORG U.S. POSTAGE PAID SOMD PERMIT #1169
“… [we must] seek avenues of peace, which begin with each one of us and our ability to see Christ in the other. If we disagree we try to do so in a civilized manner. …. we must never tire in the quest for peace and understanding among peoples.” – Archbishop Timothy P. Broglio
“Serving Those Who Serve”
P.O. Box 4469 Washington, D.C. 20017-0469
Archdiocese For The Military Services, USA