Salute - Summer 2018 by Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA

SUMMER 2018

THE MAGAZINE OF THE ARCHDIOCESE FOR THE MILITARY SERVICES, USA

24TH ANNUAL MEMORIAL MASS

“Each one of us has a unique role to fill...each one makes an essential contribution to the mission.” See article page 34 SUMMER 2018 |

Dear Friends of the Archdiocese,

he end of a long and challenging winter appears to have arrived and I can write these lines looking out as sunlight bathes the AMS environs. Despite a full agenda, summer does offer some moments of relaxation, an easier pace, and some limits on travel.

The irony is that most people plan vacations by making airline reservations. My idea of a vacation does not include an airport, when I can avoid it! June mark some significant ordinations that interest the Archdiocese for the Military Services. Five co-sponsored seminarians will be ordained to the priesthood and five to the diaconate. Workers are available for the abundant harvest and we can all rejoice. As you know, summer in the military marks the PCS or Permanent Change of Station season. We might call it 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. In the archdiocesan pastoral center summer means that planning for the next round of activities takes place. Many of the regular responsibilities continue to be met. The finishing touches on the special retreat for families assigned to Europe are being made and AMS participation in the regional and national V Encuentro is almost achieved. Preparations are well-underway for the annual Labor Day gathering with the co-sponsored deacons and seminarians. This issue of Salute will offer some of the highlights of the activities surrounding Holy Week and Easter, tells of the annual Memorial Mass, and, as always, continues 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 Lebanon, two gatherings in Europe, and a solidarity visit to Columbia as Chairman of the Committee on International Justice and Peace of the USCCB. 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,

The Most Reverend Timothy P. Broglio Archbishop

THE MAGAZINE OF THE ARCHDIOCESE FOR THE MILITARY SERVICES, USA

VOLUME 12 NUMBER 2 SUMMER 2018

TA B L E o f C O N T E N T S 4

Four Months in Review

Archbishop Timothy P. Broglio

12 Selah Bishop F. Richard Spencer 16 We Witness Miracles Here Bishop Richard B. Higgins 20 A Pastoral Visit to Naval Base Coronado Bishop Neal J. Buckon 26 The Harvest Continues Meet Seminarian Joseph Knepper 28 Vocations Update Father Aidan Logan, O.C.S.O. 30 Wally’s Helmet Mary Lavin 32 AMS Marriage Enrichment Mark Moitoza, Th.D., D.Min. 37 Archdiocese Celebrates String of Awards Taylor Henry 41 Promoting a Deeper Spiritual Life Among God’s People Dennise Santos 44 Warriors to Lourdes Father Jeffrey G. Laible 46 Chosen for Missionary Discipleship José Amaya 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 2018

THE MAGAZINE OF THE ARCHDIOCESE FOR THE MILITARY SERVICES, USA

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

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

24TH ANNUAL MEMORIAL MASS

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

SUMMER 2018

“Each one of us has a unique role to fill...each one makes an essential contribution to the mission.” SUMMER 2018 | See article page 34

BY ARCHBISHOP TIMOTHY P. BROGLIO

Four Months in review

hen I was a little boy, family vacations were always by automobile and usually began at about 3 a.m. The reasons were obvious: there was no air conditioning in the car and it is cooler in northeastern Ohio in the wee hours of a summer morning, there is less traffic, and children generally sleep for the first hour or two.

ARCHBISHOP TIMOTHY P. BROGLIO CELEBRATING THE 75TH ANNIVERSARY OF ST. FRANCIS XAVIER CATHOLIC CHAPEL ON MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP LEJEUNE WITH U.S. MARINES AND CIVILIANS.

Little did I know that I was learning a pattern. Few of my trips are vehicular, but you always have to find a way to the airport. If the flight is early in the day, you either leave your vehicle at a hotel near the airport or you make use of the ever more popular ride services. These past months have offered me many opportunities to board early flights and most of them have been to domestic destinations. After the retreat for the Bishops of Regions IV and XIV in the beautiful Bethany Retreat Center in Lutz, Florida, I made my way back to Florida again for the Navy retreat. More than forty priests gathered and it was so good to see the retired chaplains and a good representation of the activeduty priests, as well. Bishop Chad Zielinski of Fairbanks, Alaska and a former Air Force chaplain, gave some excellent conferences in which he invited all to a renewal of the essential elements of our priestly service. He added a hour of adoration to the daily routine. That was a rich moment of prayer and communion with the Lord of the universe.

The Catholic chapel at Camp Lejeune celebrated 75 years of its dedication and many â&#x20AC;&#x153;living stonesâ&#x20AC;? gathered for a special celebration. It was an honor to join with the community in giving thanks to Almighty God for so many blessings given and received in St. Francis Xavier Chapel. General Robert B. Neller, the Commandant of the Marine Corps, was present and recalled his interaction as a young 2LT with the XO, LtCol John Cregan. Father (now Monsignor) Cregan was present and glad that he only admonished the future Commandant! I took advantage of my time in the area to celebrate the anticipated Mass on Saturday evening and to hear confessions beforehand. It was opportune to celebrate Sunday Mass at New River, as well. Another early flight brought me back to Washington in time for the activities surrounding the annual Right to Life Mass and March. Once again midshipmen from Annapolis and cadets from West Point participated in the Mass at the

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FOUR MONTHS Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception and the cadets, joined by Maine Merchant Marine Academy senior and newly co-sponsored seminarian, Erin Donlon, participated in Mass and the march the next day. The weather could not have been nicer. There was another 75th anniversary to commemorate and this one brought me to Kearny, New Jersey to remember the four chaplains who surrendered their life jackets to give life to soldiers who had none when the USAT Dorchester was sunk in 1943. The last parish in the Archdiocese of Newark where Father John P. Washington, one of the four, was assigned, never fails to mark this important milestone. Chaplains gave life and still give life! It was a good opportunity for me to visit and celebrate Mass with the Carmelite Sisters of Flemington, New Jersey. This delightful community has â&#x20AC;&#x153;adoptedâ&#x20AC;? the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, and prays for all of those served by her, as well as, for those of us who minister. I am so grateful for the gift of their prayerful support. That visit brought me back to Washington in time to see the last

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half of the Super Bowl. Unlike my neighbor across the Potomac, I did not have a dog in that fight. Of course, the calendar moves forward and February usually means visits to some of the Service Academies and installations near to them. I made my usual round of visits in Colorado. The time at the Air Force Academy and the visits to the other installations are always welcome. The weather was beautiful, even if there was a bit of snow and I learned that Chrism will freeze when left in the car overnight! I rushed back to D.C. to be at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center for Ash Wednesday. The visit there was very good. It was a blessing to visit a number of patients and to see the new interdisciplinary National Intrepid Center for Excellence, which engages a broad approach to healing those troubled in body and spirit by so many years of war. We gathered with AMS catechists on the East Coast at the Mid-Atlantic Conference in Baltimore. Opportunities to meet with these valiant individuals who share the faith with our young people are rare and cannot be missed. Their contribution to Catholic programs

ARCHBISHOP TIMOTHY P. BROGLIO LEADS AMS DELEGATION AT THE MARCH FOR LIFE IN WASHINGTON, D.C.

on military installations constitutes an essential element of ministry there. That weekend saw also the first AMS marriage enrichment retreat for couples married two years or more. It is very important for the Archdiocese to offer opportunities for couples united in the sacrament of matrimony an opportunity for dialogue and prayer. I am very grateful to the Knights of Columbus and Mr. and Mrs. Eugene F. Murphy who made this and the next initiative (in the fall) possible. The uniqueness of the commitment between a man and

woman to share their lives and give new life is celebrated and renewed in these gatherings. My annual pastoral visit to West Point was somewhat truncated, because the Holy See wanted a representative of the U.S. Bishopsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Conference to participate in a short conference on global warming. The short visit to the Eternal City gave me a privilege I never had during the nineteen years that I lived there. Roma was blanketed in snow! It was beautiful! My time in the great city was short, but I did manage to

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FOUR MONTHS

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MCCW FORUM ATTENDEES SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA.

see the five AMS co-sponsored seminarians and to invite them to participate in the 60th annual International Military Pilgrimage (PMI) to Lourdes. These weeks also gave me the welcome opportunity to visit the Marines and their families at Quantico on Laetare Sunday, Palm Sunday (TBS, i.e., the Basic School), and again on Divine Mercy Sunday (for confirmation). The visits are always good occasions and I am pleased to offer encouragement and to see the growth of the communities. It has become a tradition to spend Holy Thursday and Good

Friday at West Point and then to celebrate the Easter Vigil and Easter Sunday at Annapolis. Celebrating the central events of our faith in vibrant young communities constitutes a special grace for me. Easter Sunday usually ends with a celebration in Spanish at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception. This year there was no time to waste. Minot and Grand Forks Air Force Bases were calling for a visit. Snow was on the ground and the temperatures were not balmy, but the hearts of the communities in North Dakota warmed the chill and

made hearts glad. The folks were disappointed not to see the joyful and youthful Bishop Coyle, but they hid it well from the old man! A return to Offutt Air Force Base in Omaha allowed me to visit that community, pay my respects to Archbishop Lucas, and see a seminary classmate who is a pastor in the area. Retired Air Force Chaplain Father David Reeson (Omaha) also joined us. It was a good visit, but a short one. Speaking of returns, it was very good to make a pastoral visit to Great Lakes Naval Station and to see the great work that Father Michael Marcelli (Youngstown) is doing. There were even a few signs of spring in the air. From there travels took me to an excellent Worldwide MCCW Forum in San Diego. The women worked diligently to provide a good program, superb speakers, and a great venue. The Mass in the old San Diego de Alcala Mission was a moving moment. Bishop Buckon then hosted the priests and two seminarians for a delightful dinner. The Knights of Columbus of Texas invited me to their State Convention and I was able to tell them about the largest source of vocations in the U.S. today: the

military. Their wives corresponded with a very generous donation of $80,000.00 for the Co-Sponsored Seminarian Program. The womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s project over these last two years spearheaded by Mrs. Jo Dee Benson, wife of the out-going State Deputy, Douglas Oldmixon, benefitted the AMS in an incredible way. I am so very grateful for their efforts. After a visit to Scott Air Force Base, I headed down to Florida again for the Air Force priestsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; retreat. Many priests participated and I was happy to celebrate Mass with them. I left that retreat to fly to San Diego for the baptism of two sailors and their confirmation along with four of their shipmates. The Chaplain was eager to have me personally welcome them into the Catholic community and strengthen them with supernatural gifts. Just before submitting this article I participated in three events in Europe. The first was the closing of the Catholic program at Royal Air Force Mildenhall. I was not happy to do that, but the Air Force has decided to spare the manpower and send the Catholics who work at Mildenhall four miles down the road to Lakenheath. I pray that the change will not do harm.

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FOUR MONTHS After a delightful visit to RAF Croughton, also in England, Father John Scheutze (Green Bay) and I headed to France. The International Military Pilgrimage never fails to move hearts and minds. The Knights of Columbus made it possible for some 217 people to join Supreme Knight and Mrs. Anderson for this international event. These were joined by U.S. military groups from Great Britain and Germany. I rejoiced to celebrate three Masses with them (including one at the Grotto on the XLI anniversary of my ordination to the priesthood before hopping a plane to Washington). Another moving moment was anointing the sick in our delegation

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There were many other visits to recount, but I think that the reader will have a taste of my activities in these past months. The suitcase is always packed and now my role as Chairman of the Bishopsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Committee on International Justice and Peace has increased my travel schedule. However, that mission is interesting and harkens back to my twenty-five years of service as a diplomat of the Holy See. My journeys do not usually involve long automobile trips, but there is usually an early morning ride to the airport. Thank you for accompanying me on these pastoral journeys with your prayers and support. V

ARCHBISHOP TIMOTHY P. BROGLIO AT CLOSING MASS AT RAF MILDENHALL.

The Army Ten-Miler (ATM) is considered to be the second largest ten-mile race in the United States and brings great promotional opportunities for charities and their partners in the days leading up to the race. The Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, would like to extend sponsorship opportunities at the ATM to local and national communities. The different sponsorships available are:

ARCHBISHOP SPONSOR - $5,500

GLOBAL SPONSOR - $4,500

Recognition in Army Ten-Miler runner testimonial podcasts Plus all Global Sponsor benefits

Recognition in SALUTE Magazine (60,000 subscribers) Plus all Veteran Sponsor benefits

VETERAN SPONSOR - $3,500

ACTIVE DUTY SPONSOR - $2,500

Monthly mention on e-TTENTION and News Release (55,000 subscribers) Plus all Active Duty Sponsor benefits

MISSION SPONSOR - $1,500

Logo on Team AMS t-shirt (logo size based on sponsorship level) Plus all Service Sponsor benefits

Logo on all materials for Team AMS – including the Expo and Hooah Tent Plus all Mission Sponsor benefits

SERVICE SPONSOR - $500

Logo with link on the Team AMS webpage and Team E-newsletters. Recognition on AMS Social Media (Facebook, Twitter, & Instagram – 18,000 followers)

To make a corporate donation to Team AMS and promote your company’s support of the AMS mission and ministry to 1.8 million people worldwide, please contact Salvador (Sal) Perez via e-mail at Advancement@milarch.org, or by phone at (202) 719-3652.

SUMMER 2018

CONFIRMANDI RENEWING THEIR BAPTISMAL PROMISES DURING THE EASTER VIGIL.

SELAH BY BISHOP F. RICHARD SPENCER

There are seven gifts of the Holy Spirit that are bestowed upon each person in confirmation: wisdom, understanding, counsel, knowledge, fortitude, piety, and fear of the Lord (wonder and awe). Now, for sure, there are many other gifts of the Holy Spirit, some recognized and others not so easily. In my spring travels through Asia this past Easter Season and during my conversational classes with the confirmation teenagers, one of them introduced me to a new spiritual word: SELAH ! The young teenager further shared that this word, Selah, had become for her confirmation group their mantra during the confirmation retreat. She went on to explain that while listening to a Christian radio broadcast (through the Internet) she became aware of this spiritual name: SELAH, which means: "To love, to reflect, to rest, and to be still and listen". My response was â&#x20AC;&#x153;WOW!â&#x20AC;? Out of the mouths of young Catholics comes such wisdom for all of us! I, too, did some research into this word and discovered that Selah is a word frequently found in the Book of Psalms, as well as in Habakkuk 3:9 and 3:13, it also appears about 74 times throughout Scripture. SUMMER 2018

SELAH

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This past Spring, while on the Island of Guam, I was able to attend the Army National Guard (ARNG) National Prayer Breakfast. Major General Roderick R. Leon Guerrero, the Adjutant General of Guam, hosted the event and the honored guest was Congresswoman Madeleine Z. Bordallo. Archbishop Mike Byrnes and I were both privileged to speak at this event which was attended by over 260 SOULdiers. While on the Guam, not only did I have the joy of preaching at two confirmation Masses, but also celebrating two First Holy Communions. In the picture below, the two First Holy Communicates are Micheal Dayondon Strause and Allyana Makhaila Alvaro. V

CELEBRATING FATHER PFLANZâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S 60TH ANNIVERSARY TO THE PRIESTHOOD L - R: FATHERS PETER NGUYEN, WOLFGANG KLAUSNITZER, REDMOND RAUX, V.F., JOHN GABRIEL, HELMUT PFLANZ, BISHOP F. RICHARD SPENCER, FATHERS FELIX KUMAI, MITCH ZYGADIO, AND MACIEJ NAPERALSKI

SUMMER 2018

we witness miracles here

et’s face it, good news just doesn’t sell! When folks discover I visit VA Medical Centers and their chaplains I am bombarded with questions about the “mess” at the VA and the timeliness and quality of care provided to our veterans. While the deficiencies and problems with the VA Health Care System get front page and prime time, the good news of rehabilitation and compassionate care rarely gets the attention it deserves. Recently I was invited by Chaplain Juliana Lesher, Chief of Chaplain Services at the Audie L. Murphy division of the South Texas VAHCS to visit the Polytrauma Rehabilitation Center (PRC) and Polytrauma Transitional Rehabilitation Program (PTRP) in San Antonio. Chaplain Lesher arranged a tour of the facility, and together with Chaplain David Zavala, the three of us were introduced to Virginia Isip, the Nurse Manager of the PRC/PTRP and Maureen “Molly” Wolff, the PRC Admissions/Intake Coordinator. Following a brief exchange of greetings Virginia, barely containing her excitement, held up her cell phone… “Bishop, you’ve got to see this… ‘George’ took his first step this morning!” “George” is in his late twenties and always wanted to be a Navy Seal but half way through his training he broke his right shoulder and the injury disqualified him. Home on leave and riding his bicycle, he took a tumble. The head injury left him paralyzed and unable to speak. Now a patient at

BY BISHOP RICHARD B. HIGGINS

the Polytrauma Rehabilitation Center of the Audie L. Murphy Division of the South Texas Veterans Health Care System, “George” is one of approximately 100 patients treated at this state-of-the-art facility every year. One of five VA centers nationally and built in 2011, this is a center of optimism, hope, and compassionate care. “Teamwork” is the key to the center’s success and each patient benefits from the expertise and experience of a host of specialists … neuropsychologists, chaplains, speech and language pathologists, occupational and physical therapists, vision rehabilitation specialists, and social workers. Care is provided in a residential setting and it is quite common to see some “artifacts” from home scattered around the room! Pets, however, are not allowed. Who is eligible? Both active-duty and veterans with multiple injuries. The program “was developed to address the multiple needs that can occur after an injury that limits reintegration into the community. Some of the more common conditions treated include: PTSD, traumatic brain injury, fractures, amputations, burns, spinal cord injury, mental health conditions, stroke, musculoskeletal pain, and various neurological and vision conditions.” Curious about the success of the programs I asked for some examples. Virginia provided me a link that I must share with you and suggest you have some tissues at hand: https://tbi.cemmlibrary.org/Personal-Journeys/Patient-Journeys/Christina-Salas I had a plane to catch and it was close to shift change. Virginia asked “Bishop, would you like to meet George?” “Absolutely” “Let me see... if it’s OK.” A (continued on page 18) SUMMER 2018

we witness

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few moments later Virginia ushered us into “George’s” room. Standing by the foot of his bed was “George’s” dad, a rancher from out of state. He is staying at the Fisher House across the street. “George’s” mom is back home but will replace his dad as soon as school is out. Family is a vital part of the healing and rehabilitation process and the Fisher House makes it possible for families to remain close to their veteran son/daughter during their stay at the PRC. “George” has movement in his right leg/foot and communicates by raising his foot for a “yes.” A tablet at eye level is also available to assist. His eyes dart back and forth and he manages an occasional smile. His dad beams with pride. I ask if they are church people and if so, would they object if

18 18

I said a prayer with them. Resting my right hand on “George’s” forehead I prayed for healing, gave thanks for family, shipmates, friends, and caregivers and commend “George” and his family to the care of the Lord. “George” managed a smile and raised his right foot. It was time to leave and as I bade farewell to “George,” his dad, Virginia, Maureen, Chaplains Lesher and Zavala, Maureen assured me … “Bishop, we witness miracles here.” As I headed for the airport I resolved to return and check on “George” and his family. I also renewed my promise to tell the good news of Veterans Health Care and give thanks for the caregivers who touched my life that day in San Antonio. V LEFT TO RIGHT: CHAPLAIN DAVID ZAVALA, MOLLY WOLFF RN, BISHOP HIGGINS AND VIRGINIA ISIP MSN PHOTO COURTESY OF SAN ANTONIO VA MEDICAL CENTER (VAMC).

SUMMER 2018

A Pastoral Visit To Naval Base Coronado By Bishop Neal J. Buckon

t is an honor and a joy for me to conduct a pastoral visit to Naval Base Coronado (NBC) every year during the Easter Season. Coronado Island is situated across the bay from beautiful San Diego, Calif. NBC is a consortium of eight Naval installations. However, only two installations have Catholic programs: Naval Air Station North Island (NASNI), Coronado; and Naval Amphibious Base (NAB), Coronado. Father Jose Pimental, a retired chaplain of the United States Navy and a priest of the Diocese of Monterey, is contracted by the Navy Southwest Region to provide Catholic-specific ministry for Catholic military personnel and their families at the NASNI and NAB chapels. He welcomed me to NASNIâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Chapel on a Saturday afternoon as we were preparing to celebrate the sacrament of confirmation and the Fifth Sunday of Easter.

NASNI just celebrated its 100th Birthday! Americaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s entry into the first World War made the establishment of new air bases essential and the U.S. Government took possession of the North Island in 1917. The NAB came into existence in 1943-44. Naval Base Coronado has a long history of serving as home base for Naval Aviators, Navy SEALS, Fleet Sailors, and their families. It is currently home to eight major air, surface, special warfare, and training commands, two aircraft carriers, 18 helicopter squadrons, two fixed wing squadrons, and more that 120 other military units and commands. Father Pimental and Ms. Susan Portillo, the Coordinator of Religious Education (CRE), briefed me on the scope of their extensive and comprehensive ministries. They told me that due to NBCâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s limited housing many subjects of the Archdiocese for the Military Services leave Coronado at the end of the duty day and drive over the Bay Bridge to their residences in San Diego and the surrounding suburbs. Others will drive south on the Silver Strand to the city of Imperial Beach. A significant percentage of Catholic military personnel and their families are therefore enjoying the pastoral care and sacramental support from the clergy and parish churches of

the Diocese of San Diego. Some who live in the City of Coronado are registered members of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Coronado; and their children are enrolled into Sacred Heart Parish School. Father Pimental is very fortunate to have three Catholic Navy chaplains assigned to a major command and aircraft carriers at

L-R: FATHER (CAPTAIN) SALVADOR AGUILERA, BISHOP NEAL BUCKON, AND FATHER JOSE PIMENTAL

NBC. Father (Captain) Salvador Aguilera (El Paso) is assigned to COMNAVAIRPAC (Commander, Naval Air Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet). When he is not traveling he is able to help by celebrating one or more of the three weekend Masses at NBC. Father (Lieutenant Commander) Robert Keener (Chicago) is the (continued on page 22) SUMMER 2018

A Pastoral Visit

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BISHOP NEAL J. BUCKON (CENTER) WITH THE JOINT BASE CORONADO CONFIRMATION CLASS

Catholic chaplain assigned to the USS Carl Vinson CVN-70. Father (Lieutenant Junior Grade) Long Tuan Nguyen, (Los Angeles) is assigned to the USS Theodore Roosevelt CVN71 (aka “The Big Stick”). The aircraft carriers are floating cities (each ship has a population of about 5,000) and they have their own chapel where Mass is celebrated either in port or when the ship is under way. After a useful exchange of information with Father Pimental and Susan Portillo, I met with 20 wellgroomed teenagers who were eager to celebrate Mass and the sacrament of confirmation. Each candidate told me of the saint’s name they chose for their

confirmation; and they gave me one good reason why they chose that name. I then spoke about our communion with the saints and how the Holy Spirit helps us and guides us to heaven where we will be saints one day. They told me about their confirmation retreat. I encouraged them not to let their confirmation retreat be their last retreat, because it is so important for us to make ourselves intentionally available to God. They told me about the service hours they had to perform as a part of their preparation for confirmation. I told them that it is under the guidance of the Holy Spirit that we are led to where we

CAPTION PHOTO 2: BISHOP BUCKON WITH THE JOINT BASE CORONADO CONFIRMATION CLASS CAPTION PHOTO 3: BISHOP BUCKON AND FATHER PIMENTAL AT THE AMPHIBIOUS BASE CHAPEL

can be of service to our Church and be a blessing to others. We then moved from the Chaplains’ Conference Room to the NASNI Chapel where we took pictures and then celebrated the Mass with great joy and gratitude.

is terribly wrong when a Carrier Group goes underway without a Catholic chaplain. This is a grim reminder that we must continue to pray for vocations to the priesthood. After visiting with NASNI’s Catholic faithful after Mass, Father Pimental and I packed our essentials into our cars and drove to the NAB chapel

The following morning, I returned to the NASNI chapel for the 0900 hrs. Sunday Mass. In spite of a large turnout for the celebration of confirmation the night before, the attendance that morning was above normal. Father Pimental explained that a third aircraft carrier, the USS John C. Stennis CVN-74 was making a port call at NBC and this aircraft carrier was under way without a Catholic chaplain! The Catholic BISHOP NEAL BUCKON (CENTER) AND FATHER PIMENTAL aviators and sailors (BISHOP BUCKON’S RIGHT) AT THE AMPHIBIOUS BASE CHAPEL were certainly made to feel welcome at the base chapel, on the other side of Coronado. and they were invited to enjoy The NAB is famous for its Basic the coffee and donuts that were Underwater Demolition / SEALS served afterwards. However, the (BUD/S) training. This rigorous United States of America has only ten aircraft carriers and something (continued on page 24) SUMMER 2018

A Pastoral Visit training program is six months long and only twenty percent (20%) of the trainees will complete the course and become Navy SEALS. The 1100 hrs. Mass at the NAB chapel had a remarkable number of young sailors in attendance who were obviously at the NAB for the BUD/S training. In my homily, I spoke about the importance of faith, prayer, morals, and charity. The trainees were intense and attentive. They were counting on their faith and Divine help to get them safely through the most difficult training the Navy has to offer. I was delighted to hear Father Pimental include a prayer for the BUD/S trainees in the Prayers of the Faithful. Even though the enormous grey ships, jets, helicopters and the highly technical equipment are so advanced and impressive, it is the spirit and competency of the aviators, the sailors, and frogmen at NBC that inspire confidence in the enduring strength of our Military Services. Sustaining spiritual readiness during the challenging years of a shrinking budget and an increasing operations tempo has not been easy, but, our Padres and the

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“Chaps” have been up for the task. I thoroughly enjoyed my pastoral visit to Naval Base Coronado. Father Pimental has a wonderful team of volunteers in place at both chapels to help him accomplish the mission. The musicians and the choirs enhance the sacred liturgy. The altar servers are trained and motivated. A few teenagers let me know that they are looking forward to my visit next year when they will receive the sacrament of confirmation. I am also looking forward to the next pastoral visit! V

“ .... when a Carrier Group goes underway without a Catholic chaplain. This is a grim reminder that we must continue to pray for vocations to the priesthood.”

Save the Dates Catholic War Veterans (CWV) National Convention 21-25 August 2018 Pittsburgh, Pa.

World Meeting of Families August 21-26, 2018 Dublin, Ireland

Memorial Mass for Father Vincent R. Capodanno, Servant of God Tuesday, 4 September 2018, 6:30 pm

Crypt Church Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception 400 Michigan Avenue Northeast | Washington, D.C. 20017

Pilgrimage for the Sea Services Sunday, 7 October 2018, 3 pm

Basilica at The National Shrine of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton 339 S. Seton Avenue | Emmitsburg, Md. https://setonshrine.org/event/sea-services/

MCCW European Regional Retreat 18-21 October

Rolduc Abbey, Netherlands Register at mccw.org

10th Annual Benefit for the AMS Saturday, 17 November 2018, 5 pm

Saint John Paul II National Shrine 3900 Harewood Road Northeast | Washington, D.C. 20017 SUMMER 2018

THE HARVEST CONTINUES...

NAME: Joseph Knepper (ARCH)DIOCESE / RELIGIOUS COMMUNITY: Fort Wayne-South Bend ARMED FORCES BRANCH: Navy Chaplain Candidate COLLEGE(S) / UNIVERSITY(IES) / SEMINARY(IES) ATTENDED (DEGREES AWARDED): Mount Saint Maryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Seminary; Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne (IPFW) HIGH SCHOOL(S) ATTENDED: Fort Wayne Carroll High School HOBBIES: Weight lifting, running, reading TEAM SPORTS: Football

WHEN WAS THE FIRST TIME YOU THOUGHT YOU MIGHT HAVE A VOCATION TO THE PRIESTHOOD? I first felt an attraction to the priesthood during my last semester at IPFW. I had a strong pull to the priesthood but did not do much about it because of the desire for a family and the enjoyment I had in my work. WHO OR WHAT EVENTS INFLUENCED OR INSPIRED YOU IN YOUR DISCERNMENT? Two priests of my diocese were key in my journey. The first showed me the joy of the priesthood. A second showed me the masculine aspects of priesthood. WHAT WOULD PEOPLE BE SURPRISED TO KNOW ABOUT YOU? I am a pretty simple guy. Many are surprised to find out that I have a twin sister.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SCRIPTURE PASSAGE, WHY? 1 John 4:19, “We love because he first loved us” is my favorite scripture passage. Scripture tells us of a God who is madly in love with us and in pursuit of us. As Christians we know that all goodness that flows from us comes first from the Father. HOW DID YOU COME TO KNOW JESUS CHRIST PERSONALLY? For a long time the faith appeared to be a list of rules that may help people be happy. Eventually, I came to see it as a response to a relationship with Jesus. This encounter happened through periods of Adoration, reflecting on the Gospels, and prayer. WHAT WERE SOME OF THE SPIRITUAL EVENTS OR ACTIVITIES THAT HELPED YOU DEVELOP AND SHARE YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH CHRIST AND HIS CHURCH? My involvement as a core member with Life Teen at my home parish was instrumental in developing my faith and realizing the call to enter seminary. My faith continued to grow through service in other ministries. HAVE ANY SAINTS OR CHURCH LEADERS PARTICULARLY INSPIRED YOUR DISCERNMENT JOURNEY? Blessed Pier Giorgio showed me that the faith ought be lived joyfully and men do not need to abandon their identity to become a Saint. Pope Saint John Paul II and his approach to Christianity as an adventure was impactful for me as well. WHAT WAS YOUR BACKGROUND BEFORE APPLYING TO BE A SEMINARIAN? Prior to seminary I worked in political campaigns, offices, and issue advocacy. I worked for two members of Congress, a U.S. Senate campaign, state and national political organizations, and I spent time lobbying for education reform. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SPIRITUAL BOOK? He Leadeth Me by Walter Ciszek and Discerning the Will of God by Father Timothy Gallagher were two of the most impactful. WHO ARE YOUR HEROES OR PEOPLE YOU SIGNIFICANTLY ADMIRE? My greatest hero is my mother. My mother raised four kids by herself with little help. I learned from my mother a great work ethic and a never quit or complain attitude. V

SUMMER 2018

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

GROUP PHOTO FROM 2018 SPRING DISCERNMENT RETREAT HELD AT ST. PATRICK’S SEMINARY, MENLO PARK, CALIFORNIA ON 15-18 MARCH 2018.

CO-SPONSORED SEMINARIANS

This has been a busy and fruitful academic year for the AMS Vocation Office. The Labor Day Weekend saw 39 of our 47 Co-Sponsored Seminarians in Washington for our annual gathering. This is the one time each year when they can meet with Archbishop Broglio and our chancery staff. Along with an address by the Archbishop, they were briefed on the current status of the AMS and events for the coming year. During the academic year a good number of them participated in events fostering awareness of vocations and military chaplaincy, most notably the National Catholic Youth Conference in Indianapolis, the Fellowship of Catholic University Students (FOCUS) January 2018 Senior Leadership Summit in Chicago, several local diocesan vocation days and retreats, and the 2017 Army Ten-Miler. Our men are preparing for the priesthood in 20 seminaries throughout the United States and in Rome. Annual visits from the AMS Vocation Director, and in some cases from Archbishop Broglio, assure them of our continued support. These visits give a most encouraging picture of the future of the priesthood, not only in the military but throughout our nation. DISCERNMENT RETREATS

Along with the Co-Sponsored Seminarian Program we held two discernment retreats: in November at St. Joseph’s Seminary, Dunwoodie, NY, and in March at St. Patrick’s Seminary, Menlo Park, CA. Our retreatants represented all branches of the military, active-duty, reserve and National Guard, as well

as cadets and midshipmen from the four Service Academies and ROTC programs, seminarians, and men from civilian and military families. Along with this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s retreat Master, Father John Kinney (Ch, Lt Col, USAF Ret), our Archbishop and the Director of Vocations, active-duty priest chaplains from the Army, Navy, and Air Force joined us to speak on their unique ministries and answer questions. An important aspect of these retreats is the experience of seminary life and the chance to meet and speak with peers who have gone through the discernment process and are now seminarians. Daily Mass and adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, the opportunity for Confessions, and individual meetings with the Vocation Director round out the weekend. In all, 37 men participated. From among the group, those who are seriously discerning a priestly vocation and well into the process of applying to a diocese, were invited to our next Step Closer Retreat in July. Through the generosity of our benefactors we are able to cover all the travel expenses and accommodation for these retreats. OUTREACH

Our ministry is primarily to young men on active-duty and to military families. Together, they are the single largest source of priestly vocations in our nation. Each year up to 20% of the men ordained to the priesthood come from a military background. This fact alone should motivate us to redouble our efforts to recruit and encourage young men to answer Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s call. The Vocation Office is here to assist in this front-line ministry. While our primary focus is on encouraging young men to consider the priesthood and military chaplaincy, our mission is to anyone exploring a vocation to the priesthood or religious life. V DAN DUPLANTIS (CENTER STANDING) AT THE NATIONAL CATHOLIC YOUTH CONFERENCE IN INDIANAPOLIS SUMMER 2018

Wally’s Helmet BY MARY LAVIN

n Texas, it has become a tradition that the wife of the Knights of Columbus State Deputy selects a charitable cause to promote during the two years that her husband serves in office. In 2016, Jo-Dee Benson, wife of State Deputy Douglas Oldmixon, selected the AMS Vocations and Co-Sponsored Seminarian Programs as her charitable cause and, for the last two years, has led a campaign to “highlight the need for more military chaplains for our military men and women who selflessly sacrifice for us each day in service to our country and support the formation of more priests to serve them.” At the Texas State Council’s 114th Annual State Convention on 29 April 2018, Ms. Benson presented His Excellency, the Most Reverend Timothy P. Broglio, with a check for $75,000, from the Texas Women’s Project. The gift was the culmination of efforts by an extraordinary group of women who coordinated fundraising events throughout Texas, including but not limited to, breakfasts, luncheons, raffles, silent auctions, and a Shrimp Boil. Along with the check presentation, Archbishop Broglio was presented with a special recognition for his ten years of ministry to the men and women in uniform and an impromptu announcement was made that “Wally’s helmet” would be passed around to the more than 1,000 gathered to continue to raise much needed funds. Ms. Benson’s late father, Corporal Wallace Benson, better known as “Wally,” served in the Korean War (U.S. Army). Keeping in mind that they do everything big in Texas, an additional $5,000 was collected that night in donations to Wally’s Helmet. For the last two years, the women of Texas championed and raised funds for the Father McGivney Military Chaplain Scholarship Program, increasing the awareness about the AMS and its mission throughout the Texas State Council. The Knights of Columbus established the Father McGivney Military Chaplain Scholarship Program in 2011 to help fund the education of seminarians preparing to become Catholic chaplains in the U.S. Armed Forces. Fundraising continues to be led by the Fourth Degree, the patriotic degree of the Knights of Columbus, with more than $1.5 million dollars donated to support the AMS Vocations and CoSponsored Seminarian Programs.

On the last morning of the convention, AMS Co-Sponsored Seminarian Callen Sweeney served as keynote speaker for the Ladies’ Breakfast. Callan is from the Diocese of Austin and attends St. Mary’s Seminary in Houston. His Excellency, the Most Reverend Joe S. Vásquez, Bishop of Austin, attended the event along with AMS Deacon Roy Mellon and AMS Co-Sponsored Seminarian David Chacko from the Archdiocese of San Antonio. It is only with the approval of the Ordinary of a seminarian’s home diocese that he may be considered for the AMS CoSponsored Seminarian Program. Thanks in large part to the support of U.S. bishops and religious superiors along with efforts to continue to increase awareness about discernment opportunities for prospective chaplains, the number of AMS Co-Sponsored Seminarians has risen in recent years. The AMS currently partners with 31 U.S. dioceses, and one religious order, and has 44 cosponsored seminarians studying in 20 seminaries. This is the largest number of seminarians in the history of the program and is expected to increase this L - R: AMS CO-SPONSORED SEMINARIAN CALLAN fall. Along with the cost for the SWEENEY, AMS DEACON ROY MELLON, AND AMS COVocations and Co-Sponsored SPONSORED SEMINARIAN DAVID CHACKO. Seminarian Programs will also increase, which makes the gift from the Texas Women’s Project, and the contributions to “Wally’s helmet,” all the more important. For more information about the AMS Co-Sponsored Seminarian Program, or to make a donation to the AMS, go to www.milarch.org. For more information about the Knights of Columbus, please go to https://www. kofc.org. V

SUMMER 2018

AMS Marriage Enrichment BY MARK MOITOZA , TH.D., D.MIN.

hrough the generosity of donors, the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA hosted a marriage enrichment retreat for 24 couples in the military this past February. The retreat, held at the Bon Secours Retreat Center in Marriottsville, Maryland, gathered couples from as far as Fort Drum, New York to the north and Fort Bragg, North Carolina to the south. The weekend was designed for couples to review their responses to inventory questions, which are a snap shot of that point in time. Couples looked at what needed to be addressed, celebrated what they had achieved, and reviewed areas that could benefit from additional discussion. The retreatants gathered for evening prayer, daily Mass, and personal prayer throughout the weekend. Utilizing an inventory tool created by FOCCUS, Inc. USA, an apostolate of the Archdiocese of Omaha, couples were able to use the REFOCCUS process (Relationship Enrichment Facilitating Open Couple Communication, Understanding and Study). The five specific areas shared included: Marriage as a Process, Intimacy, Compatibility, Communication, and Commitment. After a brief presentation on the particular topic, each spouse completed an inventory of questions on their own. The couples then met to review two areas where they agreed and two areas where they disagreed. Afterwards, couples joined small groups to talk about the experience and encourage one another. This helped to articulate with others the joys and struggles of military life that affect married life. The following represent a few of the comments shared by military couples that attended:

“The combination of discussion and downtime enhanced our retreat. We were able to ‘work’ and relax this weekend. Group sharing was nice because everyone had a lot to say and there was a lot of good feedback. It was such a comfort to share with Catholic and military couples.” “My spouse and I affirmed shared goals and had time to rearticulate why we we’re married and what the purpose of our marriage is.” “I truly enjoyed meeting other military Catholics in a relaxing setting and enjoying fellowship with other married couples.” “Committed to work on things to improve our relationship, better understanding of how my character traits impact our relationship.” “I will take back a breadth of knowledge with me, but mostly I think I will have better communication with my wife. The REFOCCUS discussions really made us think about our marriage in a different light.” “Recommitment to our Marriage, sharing comments with one another and the group were beneficial. Moments of solitude without distractions helped us to address our marriage and relationship.”

Archbishop Broglio celebrated Mass at the retreat center and joined the couples for lunch afterwards. The Archbishop has written: “Marriage is indeed a union most sacred and serious. It is a wonderful gift to the Church and to society. Like all precious gifts it must be cared for, supported, and sustained.” (Married Couples and the Challenge of Military Services – USCCB For Your Marriage Series, 2010) Through the continued generosity of donors plans for a second marriage enrichment retreat, to be held in the Western Vicarate of the United States, are currently underway for the Fall of 2018. Details will be posted on the AMS website when the availability of retreat center is confirmed. Pray for married couples in the military and thank God for gifts they share with the Church every day. V

SUMMER 2018

MEMORIAL MASS DRAWS 2,250 FAITHFUL TO THE NATIONAL SHRINE BY TAYLOR HENRY

ARCHBISHOP TIMOTHY P. BROGLIO DELIVERING THE HOMILY AT THE 24 ANNUAL MEMORAL MASS.

n Pentecost Sunday, 20 May, approximately 2,250 Catholics gathered in the Great Upper Church of the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception for the 24th Annual Memorial Mass to honor the men and women who have served in the United States Armed Forces, particularly those who paid the ultimate price for American liberty. The 4:30 p.m. Mass was attended by service members and veterans from all branches of the U.S. Armed Forces. The liturgy opened with a posting of the colors and the singing of the National Anthem. His Excellency, the Most Reverend Timothy P. Broglio, Archbishop for the Military Services, was the principal celebrant and homilist. Joining Archbishop Broglio at the altar were Bishp Brenden Cahill of Victoria, Tx and Bishop Richard B. Higgins, and dozens of Catholic U.S. Military chaplains and priests of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA (AMS). Among those in the congregation were Lt. Col. John Walton, USA

(Ret.), his wife, Col. Christie Walton, (USAF), and their two sons, Will, 5, and Matthew, 3. John retired from the Army last year after 20 years on active-duty, having served on multiple deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan, among other world trouble spots. Christie, who has served in the Air Force for 17 years, is an optometrist-turned-speechwriter. The couple met in Alexandria, VA, in 2010 while she was researching a speech for then-Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Admiral Mike Mullen to deliver at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point. A mutual friend introduced her to John, a 1996 West Point graduate, and she took the opportunity to learn more from him about the culture of the Academy and Admiral Mullen’s audience. They married in 2012. In the pulpit, Archbishop Broglio, just back from the 60th International Military Pilgrimage to Lourdes, France, noted the similarities between Americans in uniform and the “intrepid Apostles” on the first day of Pentecost: “Both (continued on page 36) SUMMER 2018

MEMORIAL MASS groups,” he said, “went out, sacrificed, faced the unknown, and set their sights and goals on prizes beyond the immediate, the easy, and the mediocre.” Quoting Auxiliary Bishop Daniel Mueggenborg of Seattle, he said “‘there are no spare parts on the Body of Christ.’ Each one of us has a unique role to fill. Like the sailors on the deck of an aircraft carrier when a plane takes off, each one makes an essential contribution to the mission.” His Excellency called on all gathered to pursue their calling as “missionary disciples” filled with the Holy Spirit; or, as he put it, to “facilitate the ‘shedding of a ray of light divine,’” referring to a phrase in the Veni, Sancte Spiritus sequence sung at the Pentecost Mass. “It really resonated with me,” Col. Christie Walton said. “That has really stuck with me since the homily, and it confirms our mission in the military and that we have a larger purpose for our nation, and really for the world, so it was beautiful and profound.” This was the first time for either of the Waltons to attend the annual Memorial Mass. Christie

continued from page 35

said they learned about it from an announcement in their church bulletin at the Basilica of Saint Mary in Old Town Alexandria. “We knew this was an opportunity we didn’t want to miss,” Christie said. John said, “It really touches your heart that the Church goes to such great lengths to show appreciation for the sacrifices military families make, especially memorializing those who made the ultimate sacrifice. It was a very special experience for us and the whole family.” The Memorial Mass concluded, as usual, with the sounding of Taps. Eight days later on Memorial Day, 28 May, EWTN facilitated the “shedding of a ray of light divine” by broadcasting the Mass in its entirety across North America. V

TO READ THE FULL TEXT OF ARCHBISHOP BROGLIO’S HOMILY, VISIT

HTTP://WWW.MILARCH.ORG/ ARCHBISHOP-HOMILIES/

ARCHDIOCESE CELEBRATES STRING OF AWARDS

he staff and clergy of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, work hard in their mission to bring pastoral care to those who serve and to call attention to the Cause of Vietnam War Hero and Servant of God Father Vincent R. Capodanno, M.M. This summer, those efforts were blessed with an abundance of recognition from outside Catholic organizations. On 1 June, the National Conference for Catechetical Leadership presented its Wineskins Award to Faith Formation Director

JosĂŠ Amaya for his successful and creative initiatives in the ministries of evangelization and catechesis. Meanwhile, Catholic Extension has announced the nomination of Father Lukasz Willenberg, CH (CAPT), USA, who recently moved from Fort Bragg, NC, to Fort Carson, CO, for its Lumen Christi Award, which annually honors a mission diocese worker or group demonstrating how the power of faith can transform lives and communities. The winner will be chosen among 47 nominees later this year. (continued on page 38) SUMMER 2018

STRING OF AWARDS continued from page 37 And on 14 June, the Catholic Press Association presented a First Place Gabriel award for the film “Called and Chosen – Father Vincent R. Capodanno,” produced by the Father Capodanno Guild in partnership with EWTN, which premiered the program last year on the 50th anniversary of the Maryknoll Navy chaplain’s death in combat. Archbishop Timothy Broglio created the Guild in 2013 to support the Cause for the Canonization of Father Capodanno. The press association also presented SALUTE Magazine with a first place award for “Best Title-Leadin” and a second place award for “Best Cover-Black and White.” Congratulations to one and all! V ABOVE: FATHER LUKASZ WILLENBERG, CH (CAPT), USA, ONE OF 47 NOMINEES FOR CATHOLIC EXTENSION’S 2018 LUMEN CHRISTI AWARD.

LEFT: JAMES KELTY, DIRECTOR OF THE GABRIEL AWARDWINNING FILM, CALLED AND CHOSEN – FATHER VINCENT R. CAPODANNO.

Archdiocese Holds Retreats to Support Prospective New Chaplains Amid Growing Shortage BY TAYLOR HENRY

he Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA (AMS), remains hard at work in search of prospective new Catholic U.S. Military chaplains to relieve a desperate shortage on active-duty. During the first half of 2018, the AMS organized two major events to find new chaplains: a March Discernment Retreat to support young men discerning a call to priesthood and chaplaincy, and a June retreat for already-ordained priests considering the “vocation within a vocation.”

The 15 – 18 March Discernment Retreat brought 29 men from three service branches to St. Patrick’s Seminary in Menlo Park, CA. Among the prospective chaplain candidates were two from the Army, six from the Navy, thirteen from the Air Force, and eight civilians. Archbishop Timothy Broglio took part in the four days of prayer, reflection, and talks, as did Vocations Director Father Aidan Logan, O.C.S.O., and active-duty chaplain recruiters from the U.S. Military. The California gathering is one of two annual discernment retreats that the AMS holds in the United States, one on either side of the country. The eastern Discernment Retreat will take place this year 6 – 9 December at the Pontifical College Josephinum in Columbus, Ohio. Young men interested in attending the eastern retreat may contact Father Logan at vocations@ milarch.org or (202) 719-3600. Father Logan said, “[t]he beautiful setting and the seminary community, not to mention the St. Patrick’s Day Celebration, provided our retreatants with a taste of seminary life and an opportunity to interact with peers who have traveled the same road of discernment. Of those who attended thirteen men well along with the discernment process with their home dioceses will return for our Step Closer Retreat in July.” Meanwhile, the 25 – 29 June retreat for ordained priests took place in Washington, D.C. The all-expenses-paid retreat, called “For God and Country: a Call to Serve Those Who Serve,” is the fourth of its kind since (continued on page 40) SUMMER 2018

2015. AMS clergy, staff, and chaplains joined Archbishop Broglio in giving the seven priests who attended the retreat a realistic picture of what it is like to be a military chaplain and how to become one. The AMS Chancellor, Father Robert R. Cannon, Ch, Col, USAF (Ret.), said “the For God and Country Retreat is an excellent brief exposure to the various service branches of the military for priests discerning whether to become a Catholic chaplain. All of the Catholic priest recruiters are on hand to answer questions about ministry in each service branch. The priests who have attended the retreat have found it very helpful.” Staying at the Theological College in Northeast Washington, the priests gathered daily for prayer and the Eucharist. They visited Arlington National Cemetery, Fort Myer, Va., Andrews Air Force Base, Md., and Marine Corps Base Quantico, Va. In those real-life settings, they met and talked with military officers, enlisted personnel, and other chaplains. A highlight of the gathering took place in the Pentagon Memorial Chapel at the 9/11 crash site, where the priests celebrated Mass. The retreat concluded after Morning Prayer on Friday, 29 June. These retreats are all meant to help relieve a Catholic chaplain shortage that has been growing for decades, due mainly to attrition: aging chaplains are reaching military retirement faster than they can be replaced. Currently, 205 priests are on active-duty, about half the number serving at the time of 9/11. Although a quarter of the U.S. Military is Catholic, Catholic priests now make up only about six percent of the chaplain corps. V

“Promoting a Deeper Spiritual Life Among God’s People” BY DENNISE SANTOS CATHOLIC WOMEN OF THE CHAPEL FROM EDWARDS AFB, CA AND NELLIS AFB, NV

n April of this year, I had the privilege of bringing two Catholic women’s groups from two different military installations together to experience a spiritual awakening for the weekend. This was the second of its kind, after I had discovered a retreat location in Alhambra, California when I was serving as the Women Lay Lead for my previous base’s Catholic Women of the Chapel (CWOC) at Edwards AFB. The mission of the Sacred Heart Retreat House is “Promoting a Deeper Spiritual Life Among God’s People”. The retreats are sponsored by the Carmelite Sisters of the Most Sacred Heart of Los Angeles, who through their ministry make a space available where “retreatants experience the profound and unconditional love of God”…. IN SILENCE! That’s right: silence for three whole days! (continued on page 42) SUMMER 2018

Promoting a Deeper Spiritual Life CONTINUED FROM PAGE 41

The retreat was held for 98 ladies, 30 of whom were service members, military spouses, and military retirees from California and Nevada. This was a chance for the women to remove themselves from the busyness of their lives; to pause, reset, and rest in the Lord. When the idea of a silent retreat was first brought up, it was met with a lot of anxiety because “stopping” is not always an option in military life. Most days consist of noise, a lot of it. Noise consumes life—the outside noise, the inner noise, the noise that frazzles and tires each person. Yet, it is in the silence one finds a vulnerable place where one wishes noise existed. The retreat master, Father Quan Tran from Orange County, spoke about reacting to such challenges in one’s life with docility, which is a willingness and a readiness to react quickly to change while being obedient to conforming to the will of God. This is life in a military community, but also as faithful followers of God. The docility he spoke of is the life military families lead because change is inevitable whether they are ENTRANCE TO THE SACRED RETREAT HOUSE, “COME TO ME ALL YOU WHO LABOR AND ARE BURDENED AND I WILL GIVE YOU REST.”

e z e e r b e l t n ge e c n e l i of s prepared or not! In the silence many found themselves for the first time reaching out for the mercy of God, trusting in His providence, and picking up their crosses. I witnessed a sincerity to allow God into the deepest parts of them and to let Him love them as they are. Last year, I was asked by the Sisters to become a Captain as a subject of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA (AMS) to help share in their mission. I was unsure if I could accept this invitation because my family was due to PCS in the near future, but wherever there is a base there is always home in the AMS. God transformed my hesitant â&#x20AC;&#x153;yesâ&#x20AC;? into a very big one. This year not only did we have 10 returnees from last year, but 20 new retreatants. I am so humbled to be used as an DENNISE SANTOS WITH SISTER JULIANNA, instrument to bring His children, CARMELITE SISTER OF THE MOST SACRED HEART our military women and spouses closer to Him. In a world that is ever changing, one need only to be still; to listen to Him in the gentle breeze of silence. V For information about attending a retreat, please contact: Dennise Santos: dennise.santos03@gmail.com

SUMMER 2018

L o u rd e s a n d t h e I n t e r n a t i o n a l M i l i t a r y P i l g r i m a g e

WA R R I O R S T O L O U R D E S B Y FAT H E R J E F F R E Y G . L A I B L E

esponding to Our Lady’s call for prayer and repentance, pilgrims – including members of the Armed Forces – have flocked to Lourdes for more than 150 years. During the Second World War, members of the French military visited the site of St. Bernadette’s apparitions, where they offered prayers for peace. On 10 December 1944, U.S. Military personnel joined British, Belgian, French, and Russian military representatives for a Mass at the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary, which had been built in 1901 to accommodate the large number of worshipers visiting the apparition site.

The International Military Pilgrimage (PMI) was established in 1946 to promote reconciliation, peace, and healing after World War II. Every year for one weekend in May, Lourdes becomes “home” to a worldwide military family representing over 35 nations. Under the maternal protection of

Our Lady, Lourdes is transformed into a place of prayer, peace, and healing for active-duty and veterans of the Armed Forces In 1947, a German military chaplain – who had been held as a prisoner of war in France since 1944 – was invited to participate in a military pilgrimage held in September that year. By the next year, German and Belgian soldiers began participating in larger numbers, followed by soldiers from many other countries. In 1958, the year of the 100th anniversary of the apparitions, the first official International Military Pilgrimage took place. Since 2013, the Archdiocese for the Military Services and the Knights of Columbus have sponsored a pilgrimage to Lourdes for nonwounded, wounded, disabled or sick military personnel. The seven day retreat consists of a number of spiritual events, including special Masses, opportunities for confessions, Eucharistic processions

ARCHBISHOP TIMOTHY BROGLIO, ARCHBISHOP FOR THE MILITARY SERVICES, USA, WAS THE MAIN CELEBRANT FOR THE MASS. (PHOTO COURTESY OF TAMINO PETELINSEK)

and Benediction, a visit to the baths at the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes, a candlelight vigil Rosary procession, and the International Mass that draws nearly 25,000. Archbishop Timothy P. Broglio, the Supreme Knight, Carl Anderson and wife Dorian, Supreme Master, Dennis Stoddard and wife Linda additional Supreme Officers from the K of C, the Warriors to Lourdes Leadership Team, Trip Leaders, Military Chaplains, medical staff volunteers, and family members participated in the pilgrimage in order to assist the wounded and

disabled warriors. Approximately 220 American Pilgrims, together with over 14,000 Warrior Pilgrims from 35 nations, took part in the 60th Annual Pilgrimage 15 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 22 May 2018. Post 9/11 Active, Reserve, National Guard (and those who have recently retired from military service) can apply to attend the 2019 Pilgrimage. For more information on the Warriors to Lourdes Pilgrimage, please visit the Knights of Columbus Home Page at: www.kofc.org or www.warriorstolourdes.com V SUMMER 2018

for n e s o h

Missionary Discipleship BY JOSÃ&#x2030; AMAYA, DIRECTOR OF FAITH FORMATION

rchbishop Timothy P. Broglio led the delegation “Chosen and Sent” to represent the voice of 1.8 million Catholics in the armed forces at regional and national events during the four-year process of the National Fifth Encuentro. Delegates were chosen from those who participated in the Missionary Disciples: Witnesses of God’s Love course through the University of Dayton’s Virtual Learning Communities for Faith Formation, the National Convocation in Orlando, and the Young Adults Conference in Chicago.

On Saturday 4 November 2017, the following missionary disciples were blessed at the Archdiocesan Fifth Encuentro celebrated online. Jose M. Amaya, AMS Director of Faith Formation Father Joshua Janko, Yokota AB, Japan Father Jesus Navarrete, Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii Lorrie L. Dyer, Coordinator of Religious Education at Altus AFB, OK Linda Martinez-Greer, Director of Religious Education at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, WA Griselda Escobar, Catechist at Edwards AFB, CA Dennise Santos, Catechist at Nellis AFB, NV Elizabeth Duran, US Naval Support, Naples, Italy San Juana Morante, MCCW at Schofield Barracks, Hawaii Natasha Kyles, Fort Huachuca, AZ Zackary MacKeller, Mountain Home AFB, ID Archbishop Broglio blessed the delegation to go forth to proclaim the joy of the gospel of Jesus Christ with the missionary zeal of the Holy Spirit. While the focus of Encuentro is ministry with Hispanics, the Archdiocese (continued on page 48) FOURTH ROW: SENIOR AIRMAN ZACKARY MACKELLER (MOUNTAIN HOME AFB, ID), FATHER JESUS NAVARRETE (JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR-HICKAM, HI), FATHER JOSHUA JANKO (YOKOTA AB, JAPAN), THIRD ROW: GRISELDA ESCOBAR (EDWARDS AFB, CA), ELIZABETH DURAN (US NAVAL SUPPORT, ITALY), DENNISE SANTOS (NELLIS AFB, NV),NATASHA KYLES (FORT HUACHUCA, AZ), SECOND ROW: SAN JUANA MORANTE (MCCW AT SCHOFIELD BARRACKS, HI), CASSANDRA BUSTAMANTE (ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR OF YOUNG ADULT MINISTRY), FRONT: JOSÉ AMAYA (DIRECTOR OF FAITH FORMATION) SUMMER 2018

Missionary Discipleship CONTINUED FROM PAGE 47

BACK ROW: SENIOR AIRMAN ZACKARY MACKELLER (MOUNTAIN HOME AFB, ID), BERNADETTE KOVALSICK (ABERDEEN PROVING GROUND, MD), MONSIGNOR JOHN FOSTER (AMS VICAR GENERAL), FATHER JESUS NAVARRETE (JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR-HICKAM, HI), FATHER JOSHUA JANKO (YOKOTA AB, JAPAN) FRONT ROW: JOSÃ&#x2030; AMAYA (DIRECTOR OF FAITH FORMATION), NATASHA KYLES (FORT HUACHUCA, AZ), GRISELDA ESCOBAR (EDWARDS AFB, CA), CASSANDRA BUSTAMANTE (ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR OF YOUNG ADULT MINISTRY), LINDA MARTINEZ-GREER (JOINT BASE LEWIS-MCCHORD), DENNISE SANTOS (NELLIS AFB, NV)

has used the tools to discern priorities for active-duty young adults. It is also important to note that the recommendations the delegates make to the region will have a national impact. This grass roots discernment process is bearing fruits in the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA. The following priorities and strategies were discerned at the Archdiocesan Encuentro for the AMS. Area 1: Train for evangelization Area 2: Foster vocations from the Hispanic population Area 3: Forming young adults Area 4: Welcome ministry hospitality Area 5: Promote a liaison between military Catholic community and nearby civilian parish(es)

The Archdiocese proposed the following areas of shared pastoral concern to Episcopal Region IV. The ripple effect is national since military and their dependents come from and return to civilian dioceses.

• Area 1: Liaison to build bridges and raise awareness of the needs of the Catholic military population in their midst. - Strategy 1: Invite collaboration between military point of contact and nearby civilian parishes. • Advocate for faith formation with different dioceses to cultivate a welcoming spirit with active and former military families as a way to support those who serve. - Strategy 1: Be aware of the transient needs of military families in light of sacramental preparation for adults and children (i.e., RCIA and marriage) - Suggest adding questions on intake/registration form to inquire about military service – to become aware of their presence for prayer and ongoing support, and provide a reduced registration fee for religious education. • Connect military priests with civilian priests. - Strategy 1: Strengthen collaboration between civilian and military priest, particularly Spanish speaking priests to serve the pastoral needs. - Strategy 2: Invite civilian parishes to pray for priests to serve in the military.

The impact is becoming evident in the strategic plans for young adult ministry, faith formation for families, marriage enrichment, and Military Council of Catholic Women (MCCW). The vision for catechesis calls for parents to take a greater role in the faith formation of their children as disciples for the new evangelization. Catechists are invited to consider their vocations rooted in baptism and to be creative in the mission to share the gift of faith with those entrusted to their care. Several members of the MCCW participated in the online course experience reflecting on missionary discipleship and reaching out to those in the peripheries, especially those in the military. Michelle Nash, President of MCCW and the Board, made missionary discipleship a central topic of prayer and reflection at this year’s Forum in San Diego. Two hundred and twenty ladies reflected, prayed, and went out to experience what it means to be missionary disciples in the heart of their families, faith community and the community at large. (continued on page 50)

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Missionary Discipleship CONTINUED FROM PAGE 49 The Episcopal Region IV Encuentro was celebrated at The Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C. on Saturday 19 May 2018. A total of 98 Delegates from the (Arch)dioceses of Arlington, Baltimore, the Military Services, Richmond, Washington, Wheeling-Charleston, and Wilmington gathered to discern the recommended priorities and strategies for Region IV. This experience brought the AMS Delegation together in person for the first time to encounter missionary disciples from the other dioceses in Region IV. The Delegates not only shared personal faith experiences and friendship but also enjoyed briefing time with Archbishop Broglio over dinner and participated in the 24th Annual Memorial Mass before returning to their respective faith communities to share the joy of Jesus Christ. The national event will convene an estimated 3,000 delegates from throughout the Church in the United States. You are encouraged to pray for these men and women who are helping to discern the ministerial priorities and strategies for Region IV and the Church in the United States. To learn more about the progress and fruits of the National Fifth Encuentro visit www.vencuentro.org. V LEFT TO RIGHT: JOSÃ&#x2030; AMAYA (DIRECTOR OF FAITH FORMATION), SAN JUANA MORANTE (MCCW AT SCHOFIELD BARRACKS, HI), NATASHA KYLES (FORT HUACHUCA, AZ), BERNADETTE KOVALSICK (ABERDEEN PROVING GROUND, MD), ), GRISELDA ESCOBAR (EDWARDS AFB, CA), MONSIGNOR JOHN FOSTER (VICAR GENERAL), ELIZABETH DURAN (US NAVAL SUPPORT, ITALY), SENIOR AIRMAN ZACKARY MACKELLER (MOUNTAIN HOME AFB, ID), ARCHBISHOP TIMOTHY P. BROGLIO, FATHER JOSHUA JANKO (YOKOTA AB, JAPAN), CASSANDRA BUSTAMANTE (ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR OF YOUNG ADULT MINISTRY), FATHER JESUS NAVARRETE (JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR-HICKAM, HI), DENNISE SANTOS (NELLIS AFB, NV)

The Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA

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SUMMER 2018

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