Salute summer 2013

Page 1

SUMMER 2013

T H E M AG A Z I N E O F T H E A R C H D I O C E S E F O R T H E M I L I T A R Y S E RV I C E S , U S A

Bishop Coyle Ordained


Dear Friends of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, s you receive this issue of Salute, I hope that you are at least thinking about a bit of summer vacation, time on the porch or at the beach, or perhaps reading that book that you have been waiting to crack open. Summer does offer at least the promise of some respite from the normal rhythm of activities.

A I

t is also a good time for us to rest with the Lord. Some of those extra moments of daylight might be profitably dedicated to our prayer life. We can always grow in our relationship with Him.

F

or the military summer is the customary time for PCS or Permanent Change of Station. 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.

T

he respite from visitation allows me to catch up on some administrative tasks, but also to enjoy some vacation activities. At AMS headquarters, however, many tasks continue in support of the Catholics served by this global archdiocese and preparations are well underway for the annual Labor Day gathering with the co-sponsored seminarians.

A

s I was preparing this letter, word reached me about the death of Mrs. Estabrook, just fourteen months after her dear son the Most Reverend Joseph was buried. At the Archdiocese, all of us join in praying for the repose of her soul and assuring Tim and Mary Ann and their families of our sympathy.

T

his issue of Salute will continue to keep you informed about the co-sponsored seminarians, offer some of the highlights of the activities surrounding Holy Week and Easter, and, as always, continue to tell the story of the chaplains and their activities.

A

s we continue to renew our appreciation for the virtue of faith during this Year of Faith, we rejoice in the new Holy Father’s election and the first steps of his pontificate. We pray for his continued good health and wish him a successful encounter with the young people in Rio de Janeiro in July.

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,

Most Reverend Timothy P. Broglio Archbishop

2

summer 2013 |


THE MAGAZINE OF THE ARCHDIOCESE FOR THE MILITARY SERVICES, USA VOLUME 7. NUMBER 2 SUMMER 2013

TABLE

OF

CONTENTS

6 Catholic Service Archbishop Timothy P. Broglio

10 Bishop on the Move Bishop Richard B. Higgins

14 “Chaplains are Service Men of God” Bishop Neal J. Buckon

18 “Chop Wood – Carry Water” Bishop F. Richard Spencer

20 Vocation Bumper Harvest Commences…. Father Kerry Abbott, OFM Conv.

24 Blessings Continue –26 Meet 2 New Seminarians 30 Bishop Robert J. Coyle Ordained at National Shrine 38 Father Emil Kapaun Awarded Medal of Honor, Inducted into Pentagon Hall of Heroes 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 2013

T H E M AG A Z I N E O F T H E A R C H D I O C E S E F O R T H E M I L I T A R Y S E RV I C E S , U S A

ADDRESS CHANGES AND NEW SUBSCRIPTIONS: Please send title, name, address, and phone number to: support@milarch.org or call: 202-719-3600 or write: Development Office, Archdiocese for

the Military Services, P.O. Box 4469, Washington, D.C. 20017-0469 Feedback, letters to the editor: editor@milarch.org | Website: www.milarch.org COVER PHOTO: © MARGARET BETIT

Bishop Coyle Ordained

CORRECTION TO OUR SPRING 2013 ISSUE OF SALUTE, HEROES AMONG US, PAGES 16 AND 17. ORDER CORRECTION FOR FATHER MICHAEL J. TRAVAGLIONE, OFM. FATHER TRAVAGLIONE IS A MEMBER OF THE PROVINCE OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION. THE INITIALS SHOULD HAVE READ: OFM (ORDER OF FRIARS MINOR) NOT OFM, CONV (ORDER OF FRIARS MINOR CONVENTUAL). THANK YOU FATHER CAPRIO, OFM FOR THE CORRECTION. ARCHBISHOP TIMOTHY P. BROGLIO President

MONSIGNOR FRANK A. PUGLIESE Editorial Director

JO ANN REDMOND Editor

ERIC NEUNER | RPISTUDIOS Design Director

© 2013 - A PUBLICATION OF THE ARCHDIOCESE FOR THE MILITARY SERVICES, USA - SERVING CATHOLICS IN THE ARMY, NAVY, AIR FORCE, MARINE CORPS, COAST GUARD,VA MEDICAL CENTERS, AND GOVERNMENT SERVICES OVERSEAS.


A RCHDIOCESE R

QUAERITE

FOR THE

M ILITARY S ERVICES , USA

Office of th e Archbishop

E GNU M DEI

18 March 2013 His Holiness Pope Francis Your Holiness, On behalf of my Auxiliary Bishops, the priests, and faithful of this global Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, I humbly give voice to our collective joy at the beginning of your ministry as Supreme Pastor of the Universal Church. Yours is an arduous task. Shepherding the People of God, responding to the challenges that face the Church, announcing the truth in love, and confirming all of us in the faith will require wisdom, stamina, and abundant love. May the Lord give you an abundance of all of these gifts and much more. Certainly St. Joseph, on whose Solemnity you will give a formal beginning to your ministry, will be an inspiration and a source of patience and strength. Having been ordained an archbishop on that day in 2001, I will rejoice doubly with you as I remember your intentions at the altar. As St. Ignatius teaches we do all for the greater glory of God. May the founder of the Society of Jesus inspire your leadership. He is fondly remembered in many communities in this Archdiocese, because, of course, he was a soldier before his call to establish the Society. Reiterating the good wishes of all the faithful of this global “local” Church, I willingly avail myself of the occasion to assure Your Holiness of my profound respect and sincere homage. Grateful even now for your support, I remain Sincerely in Christ,

(Most Reverend) Timothy P. Broglio Archbishop for the Military Services

P O B oP x O4 46 gtonin, gton D.C. ,2D.C. 0 0 1 7 -04 t el: .7 1290.326.70109•.3fax 2 .2:6290.924.24659 .9 4 4 5 B o9x• 4Wa 4 6 9sh• in Wash 2 0 06197 •-04 6 9 •2 0t2el: 6 0 0: •2 0fax



By ARCHBISHOP TIMOTHY P. BROGLIO

Catholic Service

1

MR. HERBERT A. MILLER, POW FATHER KAPAUN SAVED FROM EXECUTION BY ENEMY SOLDIER IN KOREA.

A

s you will read elsewhere in this issue of Salute, on Thursday 11 April an impressive ceremony took place at the White House to honor a Catholic Priest. President Obama awarded the Medal of Honor posthumously to Father Emil Kapaun who during the Korean Conflict served as an Army chaplain and was captured by the Chinese with some of his men. Prison life was brutal. It was cold and there was not enough to eat.

6

summer 2013 |


T

he priest immediately began to organize the captives and to breathe some life and hope into their situation. He encouraged them not to lose heart and he found ways to steal extra food to keep the men strong.

W

I

T

T

W

T

hile he managed to celebrate Mass and to offer the sacraments to the Catholics among the prisoners, the humanitarian efforts knew no religious demarcation. He was truly the chaplain to all. Literally, he died at the service of those prisoners, because he gave them some of his own meager rations and was constantly in the sights of the captors. They knew that his approach and his leadership were detrimental to their ability to control the others in the prison camp. He finally died of malnutrition and pneumonia in the “infirmary” of the camp. President Obama eloquently told the story of his life at the ceremony and even identified Mr. Herbert A. Miller (pictured on page 6), who as a young soldier had been wounded and carried by the priest so that he would not be shot.

he medal is the direct result of the testimony of those captives who urged that recognition be given to this extraordinary priest. His cause for canonization has been opened by the Diocese of Wichita. The Medal of Honor does nothing for Father Kapaun. He has already been before the Just Judge and rests at the end of his short pilgrimage. The way he served and the way he died indicate very clearly that his ultimate goal was to do the will of God.

submit that Father Kapaun, certainly an extraordinary figure, did not care for the needs of all merely because he was endowed with great human qualities, but rather because he understood the depth of the mystery of salvation. We are created in the image and likeness of God and saved in a community. “The human person needs to live in society. Society is not for him an extraneous addition but a requirement of his nature. Through the exchange with others, mutual service and dialogue with his brethren, man develops his potential; he thus responds to his vocation.” 2 Care for others is a lived expression of our faith. It is not an extra. I would go even further: Father Kapaun was a good, faithful Catholic and that set the stage for him to be a great American. his priest is an important antidote to a certain world view that seeks to define religion as worship or, at the very least, a system of belief in stovepipes. It relates to what you believe or what you think or how you act, but almost in isolation from the world around you. It is nice that you live that way, but it should not have any effect on your neighbor and perhaps not even on relationships with your neighbor. It may even be interpreted as what you do on Sunday morning or Fridays and that is “nice”.

hy, then, award him a medal? Why hat is certainly not what the Catholic pursue his Cause for Canonization? Church teaches and is not borne out by Clearly, not for him, but rather so that his her 2,000 year history. As the Compendium life and heroism might be an inspiration (continued on page 8) to us! summer 2013 |

7


Catholic Service

1

of the Social Doctrine of the Church reminds us at the beginning: “The Church continues to speak to all people and all nations, for it is only in the name of Christ that salvation is given to men and women. Salvation, which the Lord Jesus obtained ‘at a price’” (1 Cor 6:20; cf. 1 Pet 1:18-19), is achieved in the new life that awaits the righteous after death, but it also permeates this world in the realities of the economy and labor, of technology and communications, of society and politics, of the international community and the relations among cultures and peoples. “Jesus came to bring integral salvation, one which embraces the whole person and all mankind…” 3

(continued from page 7)

time in our history. You cannot separate his heroic charity and his valor at the service of others from his faith!

W

e are embarking on the troubled waters of controversy and the challenge will be to keep our eyes fixed on the Lord and walk with Him. Sadly during an Equal Opportunity presentation to Army Reservists, a speaker listed Catholics, Evangelical Christians, and the Jewish Defense League along with Al Qaeda, the Ku Klux Klan as being groups that might include extremists. An officer discussing Army values at Fort Campbell sent an email to dozens of subordinates listing the American Family Association and Family Research Council as “domestic hate groups” because they oppose ecently, we have a dramatic challenge homosexual actions—and warned officers to the integral link between the work to monitor soldiers who might be supporters of Catholics and the living of faith. The well- of the groups. known Health and Human Services mandate urrent “political correctness” has motiattempted to define who we are as a Church vated these attempts to elevate the in very narrow terms. The details and the various modifications are well-known. It is a supposed “rights” of some to an obligation unique instance when the Government for all. The First Amendment rights belong defines what constitutes a religion and the to all of us. Indeed the Archdiocese for the practice thereof. To oblige 196 US dioceses Military Services, USA was created as a to abandon their expression of lived charity vehicle to ensure the exercise of those very or finance immoral actions seems an rights. incredible affront to religious liberty. It is he Year of Faith, which we are establishing the characteristics of a religion, celebrating right now, includes an which it seems to me is exactly what the First Amendment to the Constitution invitation to re-read the Documents of prohibits. Vatican II. The Decree on the Laity reminds us that “they are called by God to exercise hat is another reason why the example their apostolate in the world like leaven, with of Father Kapaun is so important at this the ardor of the spirit of Christ”.4

R

C

T

T

8 summer 2013 |


“

“

Care for others is a lived expression of our faith. It is not an extra. I would go even further: Father Kapaun was a good, faithful Catholic and that set the stage for him to be a great American.

I

t is clear that the Council Fathers understood that religious belief is not a private affair. It must have ramifications on all that we do, who we are, how we think, speak, and act. It is incumbent on all of the followers of Christ to be bearers not only of His name, but also of His message. To fail to understand that is to misunderstand the whole notion of the Incarnation and salvation offered for all people.

T

hat is why if we believe that something is morally wrong or intrinsically evil, we cannot be personally opposed, but unwilling to work to eradicate that evil from our society. That is why if we can remedy the suffering of the poor or educate the illiterate or inoculate the populations where yellow fever is still a risk, we are morally obliged to do what we can. The great saints understood that. Father Kapaun understood that.

T

he concern of the Church for life, for the sanctity of marriage, the poor, and a host of other issues stems from her desire for the common good and her conviction that there is no dichotomy between good and the expression of that good in society.

C

onsequently and ideally, there is no dichotomy between faith and life. Certainly in the lived reality of every human person sin is present and so we do not always do as we ought. The Lord recognized that challenge and offered us means to remedy the deficiencies in our lived application of His teaching.

F

ather Emil Kapaun believed in the whole Gospel and lived that principle in heroic proportions. The lives he saved or touched were many, because he recognized that Almighty God called him, but the relationship was not limited to God and him. It necessarily included others, even others of little or no faith. His response necessarily involved them, as well. Indeed his bravery is inexplicable any other way. He was a hero, because he applied his Catholic faith to every situation.

H

appily, my pastoral visits in the first four months of the year have offered many opportunities to reflect on these values with so many good people. In a special way I was heartened by the young men who participated in the recent discernment retreat at St. Patrick’s Seminary in California. The future is bright in their hands. >

1 The article is adapted from an address to the Thomas More Society of Washington, D.C. 2 CCC. 1879 3 Compendium of the Social Doctrine of the Church, 1, 2004. 4 AA 2.

summer 2013 |

9


By BISHOP RICHARD B. HIGGINS

Bishop on the Move

A

s you know from past issues of SALUTE, we are desperately short of active duty chaplains to meet the needs of our men and women in uniform. In an increasing number of situations, the spiritual needs of our people are being met by dedicated contract and U.S. government (GS) civilian priests. One such was Father Jack Gray, a retired priest of the diocese of Pensacola-Tallahassee, Fla. I had spoken to FATHER "JACK" GRAY Father Jack, then a contract chaplain at Naval Air Station Pensacola, several months ahead of my planned visit in February. He regretted that he would not be able to participate at Confirmation as his physician had told him he needed a little work on his heart, but “Deacon Don will be there, bishop and he will take care of you.” Sure enough Deacon Don Krehely, a retired Navy Captain (O-6) and C.C. Castro, the RE coordinator made it happen. Following the Confirmation ceremonies Deacon Don and I stopped by the hospital to visit Father Jack as I was heading out of town early the following morning. Father Jack had left instructions to “Nurse Ratchet” for no visitors, so “bishop or no bishop” nobody gets to see Father Jack! Sadly Father Jack passed away early the following morning from complications following heart surgery. The Naval Station, the AMS and the Pensacola community lost a legend. Rest in peace Father Jack!

10 summer 2013 |


RITE OF ELECTION AT THE NATIONAL SHRINE OF THE BASILICA OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION, WASHINGTON, D.C.

F

ebruary 11th was one of those classic “where were you when?” days. I was in the midst of a 450-mile drive across the panhandle of Florida heading from Biloxi, Mississippi to NAS Jacksonville when the news broke. I do not recall the station, but the airwaves were abuzz all day long. His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI had announced his resignation and his intent to retire to a life of prayer and study. While not unprecedented this had not happened since 1415 and created an amazing reaction across the globe. It soon emerged that His Holiness had hinted at the possibility of a papal resignation in an interview with a reporter months before. Pope Benedict’s historic low-level departure from Vatican City to the summer residence at Castel Gandolfo was “primo” prime-time but was soon overshadowed by the excitement and potential of a papal conclave. I recall the extraordinary excitement of those days as a young seminarian in the Eternal City when Blessed John XXIII died and Pope Paul VI was elected (June 1963). But that was before the arrival of 24/7 news, talking heads and speculation! Lost in the variety of reactions to Pope Benedict’s pending departure was the

same-day announcement of the selection of Monsignor Robert Coyle, pastor of Corpus Christi parish in Minneola, N.Y. as an auxiliary bishop for the AMS. The spring issue of SALUTE contained a brief article on Bishop Coyle. I am told that “sequester” is a verb, but in recent times it has become a noun with a nasty reputation. In my visits to a variety of installations these past few months, “sequestration” is on everyone’s agenda. It is difficult to calculate sequestration’s impact on chapel communities and the Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Centers. In my visits, I most often encountered a mixture of anger and dismay that it was allowed to happen. There is uncertainty as to the future of contracted chapel staff (youth ministers, pastoral assistants, religious education coordinators, and musicians), loss of appropriated funding for essential chapel supplies (religious education materials, worship aids, sacramental wine and hosts) and the hiring of replacement chaplains. Military commanders and VA Medical Center directors face tough decisions as they find themselves unable to fund positions and programs, with significant risk to chapel communities and chaplain services. (continued on page 12) summer 2013 |

11


Bishop on the Move

(continued from page 11)

my 46th year of priesthood I I am usually out on the road when the Rite of Election give thanks to, and bless all of is celebrated but this year I was you who are part of my earthly fortunate to be in the D.C. area pilgrimage. and attended the Rite On Thursday, 11 April, I celebrated at the Basilica of was privileged to represent the the National Shrine of the archdiocese at a White House Immaculate Conception on ceremony where President 24 February. Bishop Barry Obama awarded (posthuKnestout, an auxiliary bishop mously) the Medal of Honor DEACON RICHARD B. HIGGINS, 1967 of the Archdiocese of Washto Father Emil Kapaun, a ington presided over this amazing experience priest of the Diocese of Wichita who served of the universality of the Church and the as an Army chaplain during the Korean war power of the Holy Spirit. The magnificent and died in a Chinese Communist “hospital” basilica in Northeast D.C. was full of extraor- on a hill near the Manchurian border, dinary stories of conversion, joy, anticipation overlooking the Yalu river on May 23, 1951. and caring communities, each reflecting the The citation accompanying the award of our surprising and life-changing activity of the nation’s highest military decoration highlights Holy Spirit. Among the participants were the heroic exploits and selfless sacrifice of members of the Catholic communities of a truly great priest. Among the attendees Andrews AFB and Joint Base Anacostia / at the White House that day were members Bolling eagerly antici- of the Kapaun family, survivors of the Korean pating the joy of the conflict, members of congress and the administration, the Bishop of Wichita (already Easter Vigil. I was home in D.C. named Archbishop of Dubuque) men and on the 9th of March women of the diocese of Wichita, United to celebrate the 45th States Army chaplains of all denominations anniversary of my ordi- and the White House Press Corps. 11 April nation to the priest- was a great day to be a Catholic, a priest hood. It was a quiet and a chaplain. The “visitation” circuit will conclude day, filled with memoFATHER RICHARD B. HIGGINS with Confirmation at Great Lakes Naval ries of extraordinary ORDINATION PHOTO 1968 events and wonderful Training Center and the Spring meeting people whom the good Lord has sent into of the Conference of Catholic Bishops my life. It was also a time to remember two in San Diego. As I look forward to a someclassmates, Archbishop Michael Courtney what slower pace over the summer months and Father Gerry Treacy, called home to their I wish each of you every blessing and a eternal rewards all too soon. As I embark on safe and enjoyable vacation time. >

12 summer 2013 |


By DEACON MICHAEL YAKIR

Deacon on the Move

W

hile at a recent conference of deacon formation directors in Albuquerque, New Mexico, I was able to use some free time to visit FATHER LINUS NWATARALI IN FRONT OF KIRKLAND AFB CHAPEL with the Catholic community at Kirtland Air Force Base. The community’s spiritual leader is Father Linus Nwatarali, a priest from the Diocese of Enugu in Nigeria. He is assisted by Deacon Michael Lente along with Sanda Krantz the Catholic Coordinator, Margaret Wakefield who is the Religious Education Coordinator, and Jen Conley the Youth Minister. Father Linus invited me to assist him at the 1130 Mass in the Blessed Sacrament chapel. The first thing that I noticed was that the chapel was completely full, not because the chancellor was there, they didn’t know that I was coming. The chapel was full because daily Mass is important to so many people at Kirtland. Afterwards, the Wing Chaplain, Lt. Col. Thomas J. Elbert, spent a great deal of time with me telling me about the ministry of Father Linus and the vibrant life of the Catholic community at Kirtland. I was honored that he spent so much time with me. Later I was able to review the features of the AMS website with the Catholic Coordinator and show her all of the resources that are available. After my meeting with the Catholic Coordinator Father Linus gave me a tour of the air base during which I recognized an Osprey and a C-130 flying (continued from page 46) overhead. summer 2013 |

13


By BISHOP NEAL J. BUCKON

“Chaplains are Service Men of God” TEXAS TRAVELS

LEFT TO RIGHT: FATHER THIENAN TRAN, BISHOP NEAL J. BUCKON, AIRMAN GUIDO LIBERATI.

14 summer 2013 |


T

exas, the Lone Star State, is the second most populous and second largest of the 50 states of the United States of America. The State of Texas also has the second greatest number of military installations in the Western Vicariate of the Archdiocese for the Military Services (AMS). I visit Texas at least three times a year. Sheppard AFB, in Wichita Falls, is included in the April itinerary with the bases located in Oklahoma. Fort Bliss, on the outskirts of El Paso, is my first stop after Thanksgiving Day. After I leave the Fort, I head north to visit the bases in New Mexico. But, the big Texas Roundup starts in late February and ends in mid-March.

n February 26th I flew to San Antonio, Texas, rented a car, and drove to the Naval Air Station in Corpus Christi. Father Gabriel Mensah is the Catholic priest and the senior Navy chaplain for the base. He was recently selected for promotion to the rank of Commander. To celebrate his accomplishment and his future assignment to Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, we went to dinner at a local seafood restaurant. The following night the Catholic Community gathered in the base chapel to celebrate Mass. Six young and enthusiastic candidates were sealed with the gifts of the Holy Spirit during the Mass.

O

Center (SAMC), Lackland Air Force Base (AFB), Fort Sam Houston, and Randolph AFB. He planned a dinner at a Mexican restaurant in San Antonio with Father James Schellenberg, the contracted priest at SAMC; Father Sean Knox, the Air Force’s chaplain at Randolph AFB; and Fathers Max Omana and Edward Ramatowski, Air Force chaplains at Lackland AFB. We toasted Father Knox who had orders to the air base in the Azores. Together we celebrated a Joint Confirmation Mass for 80 candidates at the largest chapel on Lackland AFB. Each chaplain presented his candidates, and it was a lengthy roll call in a capacity filled chapel.

O

M

ff to Joint Base San Antonio (JBSA) to begin the month of March. CH (COL) Gary R. Studniewski, an Army chaplain and senior active duty Catholic priest assigned to Fort Sam Houston, welcomed me. He planned and hosted a visit that included the celebration of the Eucharist at the San Antonio Medical

onday March 4th, I drove to the border town of Del Rio, Texas and visited the Catholic Community of Laughlin AFB. Father Peter J. Dumag (Diocese of Honolulu) the Air Force chaplain ministering to entry level pilots-in-training. This is Father Dumag’s first assignment. Father will tell you that Del Rio and Honolulu do have (continued on page 16) summer 2013 |

15


LEFT TO RIGHT AT FORT HOOD, TX: JOSE A. CASTELLANOS, DANIEL GROVE, FR. PATRICK VAN DURME, AND JAMES D. WOODWORTH.

something in common and that is the faith, hope, and love which can be found in the Catholic communities. I confirmed three well-prepared students on March 5th.

T

he following day I headed north on a 2.5 hour drive to the city of San Angelo, Texas. Father Mario Rosario is the Catholic chaplain for Goodfellow AFB. He works with Mrs. Julie Koskovich, Coordinator of Religious Education (CRE), and Mrs. Veronica Price, Catholic Pastoral Coordinator. They planned a wonderful Confirmation Mass for eight candidates and a sumptuous pot-luck dinner reception for the entire Catholic community. During my stay, I was given a tour of the training being conducted at the base. Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, and Marines come to Goodfellow AFB to be trained in military intelligence, and certified as firefighters. The chaplains are present to help the serv-

16 summer 2013 |

ice members acquire virtues and resiliency, as well as their core competencies.

M

y next destination was Dyess AFB located on the periphery of the city of Abilene. Colonel Glen VanHerk, the Commander of Dyess AFB, and Father Thienan Tran, Catholic chaplain, warmly greeted me upon my arrival. We discussed Father Tran’s reassignment to Osan AFB in the Republic of Korea and the future of the Dyess Catholic community without a priest. The shortage of Catholic chaplains and the reduced budget of the Department of Defense are having an adverse effect on our Catholic programs. The prospect of Dyess AFB retaining its Catholic community is uncertain. It is problematic that our Catholic youth might have to forfeit a constitutional right when they put on the uniform. But, hope does spring eternal, and men are answering the call to priesthood


Texas Travels: “Chaplains are Service Men of God� and the military chaplaincy. While I was in Dyess AFB Father Tran introduced me to Airman Guido Liberati. Airman Liberati is from New York and is serving as an air traffic controller. He also serves at Mass and assisted as I confirmed six members of the community. Airman Liberati has attended an AMS Vocation Discernment Retreat and intends to enter the seminary when his term of enlistment is complete.

T

he next stop on the tour through Texas was the Naval Air Station (NAS) and Joint Reserve Base (JRB) Fort Worth. Father Richard Baranski OFM, contracted Catholic priest for the base, had five eager teens prepared for Confirmation. He also introduced me to Seaman Amir Ayyobi. He is from Houston, Texas and is serving in the Navy as a Religious Program Specialist (RP). Seaman Ayyobi enjoys making asignificant contribution to the religious support operations and working with the chaplains on the base. He enjoys it so much that he is thinking about becoming a priest and chaplain himself. Seaman Ayyobi was looking forward to flying to San Francisco the following week to participate in an AMS Vocation Discernment Retreat with Archbishop Broglio and Father Kerry Abbott, OFM Conv. I was delighted to meet two men discerning a call to priesthood.

I

only had one more military installation to visit. Father Patrick Van Durme, assigned to the Garrison at Fort Hood, shepherds the Catholic community. He

(continued from page 16)

arranged a breakfast with the Catholic Women of the Chapel (CWOC); praying the Stations of the Cross on Friday, March 15th; a Fish Fry hosted by the Knights of Columbus; a Confirmation Mass for 39 Confirmandi; Sunday Mass in Spanish; and a luncheon with the Crusader Youth Group. Father Van Durme and I shared lunch with Fathers David Kirk and Alan Irizarry who are serving as Brigade Chaplains at Fort Hood. Father Lito Amande was on block leave and unable to join us. These priests work together as a team to accomplish an enormous and important mission. Father Van Durme also surprised me be inviting me to a lunch with three men who are discerning the call to the priesthood. I had the opportunity to discuss vocations with James D. Woodworth, an Adjutant General officer; Jose Castellanos, a mechanic; and Daniel Grove, a medic. Jose was also planning to travel to the AMS Vocation Discernment Retreat the following week!

C

haplains are Service Men for God. They bear no arms. Their purpose is not death, but a deeper more meaningful life for all. They serve God and country, and through their pastoral leadership robust comprehensive Catholic programs are found in chapels on most installations. It is a joy for me to travel in Texas every year to witness the labor of love. I am inspired by the faith, hope, and love that I see in each Catholic community. Others are inspired too, and that is why they are discerning a vocation to the priesthood and the military chaplaincy. > summer 2013 |

17


By BISHOP F. RICHARD SPENCER

“CHOP WOOD – CARRY WATER”

W

hen I read letters from Confirmandi prior to their Confirmation Masses, and usually following their Confirmation retreats, I am often impressed with the depth of insight and vision that young people express on how to live a life of service as a Catholic. Recently, one letter in particular from a high school junior in Bavaria, Germany explained that he had realized the best way for him to live life as a Christian. It was not with a lot of “bells and whistles” nor recognitions from high intensity ministry, but rather simply to “Chop Wood and Carry Water”. A life of simple service is the theme he articulated as his mantra. Not striving to be in the limelight all the time. BISHOP F. RICHARD SPENCER OFFERING MASS IN KOREA He sought to pursue the simple DURING HOLY WEEK. ways that he can assist others. In cold, cold Bavaria, many homes rely upon wood as a source of fuel to heat their houses. Heat, shelter and water are basic human needs that enable human beings to grow in harmony. This student, has made it his goal in life to address the basic needs of his sisters and brothers in our communities. He does not seek the glamour that usually follows extraordinary events. This same student has already embraced what Holy Father Francis has called all of us to become, good stewards of our resources to live life simply and boldly.

18

summer 2013 |


S

ince my last visit with you our faithful committed to sustaining the spiritual lives of readers, through the pages of the the priests. Your financial donations to the Spring SALUTE just three short AMS are one of the many direct ways that months ago, I have enjoyed visiting 31 of ministry is provided to our priests, and those our chapel Catholic communities in Europe donations are greatly appreciated. A very and in Asia. During my visits, the excite- exciting and helpful workshop was held ment of the vision and lifestyle of Pope during the most recent Day of Prayer. Mrs. Francis has been a constant theme of con- Michele McAloon (a doctoral candidate in Canon Law studies, versations. Holy Week Paris, and mother of three found me returning to teenage sons and wife of Korea where I humbly It was not with the senior USA Military accepted the invitation Defense Attaché to France) a lot of “bells to deliver the homily presented three Conferduring the Chrism and whistles” ence talks on marriage Mass at the Military nor recognitions and sexuality. Cathedral, Seoul. This from high homily reflected upon intensity n Europe, we were able the priestly holiness ministry, but to conduct our third and service of Father rather simply to RACHEL’S VINEYARD Emil Kapaun, of the healing retreat for those Korean conflict and the ‘Chop Wood and women, men and teenage life of Bishop Jeong Carry Water’ siblings who have been Myong Jo (Augustino), associated with an abora courageous Colonel tion experience in their Chaplain in the Vietnam War. Both very simple, humble and families. This was a powerful healing opporholy men who served without counting the tunity for our overseas military families. costs and neverturned back from the plow. Likewise, in Korea, the groundwork, planBoth men “chopped wood and carried ning meetings and training sessions have water” – literally – in order to help fellow begun these past few months which will prisoners of war to survive and endure become the platform and foundation to begin these healing retreats in Asia this Fall. their ordeals.

O

ur quarterly European Clergy Days of Prayer continued to grow in popularity as the AMS reaches out to spiritually nourish and take care of our Catholic chaplains who serve on the front lines of ministry. The AMS is thoroughly

I

T

hanks again from the field to our benefactors who enable the funding for these retreats to be offered. Until you and I meet again in these pages of SALUTE, may we together “chop wood and carry water” to the glory of our God. > summer 2013 |

19


By FATHER KERRY ABBOTT, OFM CONV.

“Vocation Bumper Harvest Commences...”

SAINT PETER’S SQUARE, VATICAN CITY. L-R: MIDSHIPMAN PAUL MASTELLER, USNA; GREG BILLION, STUDENT AT UNIVERSITY OF SAINT THOMAS, ST. PAUL, MINN; MELISSA ZASTOUPIL, STUDENT AT UNIVERSITY OF MARY, BISMARCK, N.D.; AMS CO-SPONSORED SEMINARIAN SAM SCHNEIDER (SUPERIOR), JAMIE BASHAW, STUDENT AT UNIVERSITY OF MARY, BISMARCK, N.D.

. . . so proclaimed an AMS news release in March 2013 that provided an invitation for thanksgiving to God for the nine men in the AMS Co-Sponsored Seminarian Program ordained to the transitional diaconate and presbyterate this year. To be sure, we have certain cause for rejoicing; our AMS Co-Sponsored Seminarian Program continues to grow while providing transitional deacons, priests and priest-chaplains to the Church and our AMS family.

20

summer 2013 |


T

here were so many men (nearly 30) that wished to attend our spring 2013 vocation discernment retreat at St. Patrick’s Seminary in Menlo Park, Calif. that the seminary staff felt they could not accommodate all of the retreatants and priest-chaplains L-R: CHARLES VALLE (FATHER), JACOB VALLE, MARY BETH VALLE (MOTHER), attending. We had to obtain lodging MONSIGNOR STANLEY DEPTULA (PRIEST OF DIOCESE OF PEORIA). AT ST. THOMAS MORE SIDE CHAPEL OF THE CATHEDRAL OF ST. MARY for the “overflow” away from the OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION, PEORIA, ILL. seminary! From that one retreat, 19 men out of 27 have indicated a formal “In the Gospel…even Peter, who confessed desire to move forward in applying for the Jesus as Christ, says to Him: ‘You are the AMS Co-Sponsored Seminarian Program Messiah, the Son of the living God. I will and/or affiliation with local civilian dioceses follow you but let’s not talk about the as military chaplain candidates; they join 10 Cross.’ That doesn’t have anything to do out of the 24 who attended our fall retreat with it. …I’ll follow you, without the at the Pontifical College Josephinum in Cross. When we walk without the Cross, doing so. The Holy Spirit is manifesting the when we build without the Cross, when Call, these good men are responding with we profess a Christ without the Cross … humble courage, courage to live the Cross. we aren’t disciples of the Lord. We are worldly; we are bishops, priests, cardinals, ou might ask, “What happens to these popes, but not disciples of the Lord. And good men after they say yes, engage in I wish that all of us, after these gracethe rigorous evaluation and acceptance filled days, might have the courage, yes, processes for a diocese, religious community, the courage to walk in the Lord’s presence AMS, seminary and the armed forces as with the Cross of the Lord, to build the chaplain candidates?” At times it may seem Church on the blood of the Lord that is that we focus on the “invitation” to poured out on the Cross and to witness to discernment and eventual “celebration” of the sole glory: to the crucified Christ. ordination, the misunderstood “beginning (pro Ecclesia Mass, Vatican City, 14 Mar and end” of formation. In life the true worth 13 – Vatican Information Service)

Y

of the journey is not at “point A” or “point B”, it is in the persons, places and events of the journey itself. It is not enough to hear the Good News of the Gospel and of a Vocation to live the redemptive life of the Cross in a particular way, or to recognize (discern) them, but to act! Pope Francis exhorts us, “To walk, to build, to witness...”

T

he “what’” that happens to our brothers once they journey through the evaluation and acceptance processes for the AMS Co-Sponsored Seminarian Program is that in a new and unique way they are invited to pick up their Crosses (not the Lord’s, not yours, not mine…theirs), and follow the Lord (continued on page 22) summer 2013 |

21


“Vocation Bumper Harvest Commences…”

(continued from page 21)

ARCHBISHOP TIMOTHY P. BROGLIO ADDRESSING THE VOCATIONS DISCERNMENT RETREAT AT ST. PATRICK’S SEMINARY, MENLO PARK, CALIF.

into a life of formation, sacrifice and service which will begin in a new way at the seminary and continue through their lifetimes. The seminary (seminarium) is the seedbed of the Cross.

move forward…in formation, vocation, life. “Then Jesus said to his disciples, ‘Whoever wishes to come after me must deny himself, take up his cross, and follow me.’” (Matt 16: 24.)

T

O

he Holy Father reminded us of that fact during that same homily quoted above,

“To walk, to build, to witness…this is not so easy because when we walk, when we build, when we witness, at times there are upsets, there are movements that aren’t proper to the journey. They are movements that pull us back.” (pro Ecclesia Mass, Vatican City, 14 Mar 13 – Vatican Information Service.)

T

he seminary, military training as a chaplain candidate, are no different than other responses to the Vocation of the Cross in the sense that, as the Holy Father reminds us, there are events that discourage us, pull us back. This is precisely when, together, supporting one another in walking, building and professing a life built on the redemptive suffering of the Cross, we can

22

summer 2013 |

n other pages of this issue of Salute you will see evidence of the Cross embraced, lived and witnessed by our CoSponsored Seminarians, from Jacob Valle (Peoria) being commissioned as a new Air Force second lieutenant and chaplain candidate, to Sam Schneider (Superior) witnessing to former US Naval Academy Midshipmen classmates and others during a pilgrimage to Rome. This pilgrimage happened to coincide with Sam being present in the piazza during the announcement of the election of Pope Francis! “And thus the Church will move forward. I wish for us all that the Holy Spirit, through the intercession of Mary, our Mother, grant us this grace: to walk, to build, and to witness to Jesus Christ.” (pro Ecclesia Mass, Vatican City, 14 Mar 13 – Vatican Information Service.) >


By FATHER PATRICK J. MCCORMICK, CDR, CHC, USN (RET)

“When the Lord closes a door, He opens a window!” – The Sound of Music

FATHER PATRICK GIVING COMMUNION TO THE CATHOLIC COMMUNITY AT TYNDALL AIR FORCE BASE.

I

had very much wanted to stay on active duty with the U.S. Navy. Others, higher-ups, had even asked if I would be willing to stay on active duty and said they would get me another waiver, but time was up. I was about to turn 68, and had enjoyed over 21 years on active duty. At that point in my life, Father (Chaplain) Doug Hall, (Lt. Col. USAF) called me, out of the blue, and asked if I would be interested in applying for the new GS position for a Catholic priest that was being created at Tyndall Air Force Base, Panama City, Fla. I had never heard of a GS-position for priests and I did not know where Tyndall Air Force Base was located, except somewhere in Florida. So I said “yes”. I filled out the USA.gov job application and six weeks later received an e-mail announcing that I was the “number one prospective candidate” for the position. I never heard if there was a number two, but I gladly accepted the position so that the Air Force could send another active duty priest off to be deployed. That was almost three years ago. What a great experience it has been to be the pastor of over 300 Air Force active duty members, their beautiful families and many wonderful retirees, not to mention not having to take the semi-annual PT test. We have a magnificent choir, many volunteers for all the liturgical ministries as well as our RCIA and religious education classes and our many social activities. That is why I say: “when the Lord closes a door, He opens a window!” > summer 2013 |

23


The Blessings Miguel Ramon Flores-Perez DIOCESE: Diocese of Austin, Texas RANK / BRANCH OF SERVICE: SSG (P) - Rank held before being honorably discharged in December of 2010. Current and Former: U.S. Army HIGH SCHOOL ATTENDED: William H. Taft High School, San Antonio, Texas COLLEGE ATTENDED: Christendom College, Front Royal, Va, University of St. Thomas, Houston, Texas HOBBIES: Home repair/remodeling, marksmanship shooting with friends. WHEN WAS THE FIRST TIME YOU THOUGHT YOU MIGHT HAVE A VOCATION TO THE PRIESTHOOD? In 1997, before attending Christendom College, I did consider the possibility of a vocation to the priesthood and thus wanted to better discern this calling at a good Catholic college. While at Christendom, the calling to the priesthood was always in the back of my mind. But I was also open to marriage and sometimes grappled with a desire to serve in the military as my father had done. The terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001 sealed the deal for me as far as military service, but it did not put an end to the calling to the priesthood that I still felt. The 8.5 years in the U.S. Army gave me the opportunity to see life in a different light and to seriously consider God’s will for me. I decided to leave the U.S. Army and finish my undergraduate degree, as well as to seriously discern God’s will. While at the University of St. Thomas, I finally came to the conclusion that I had to give the priesthood / seminary a chance and to discern if this was truly God’s will for me. WHO OR WHAT EVENTS INFLUENCED OR INSPIRED YOU IN YOUR DISCERNMENT JOURNEY? Growing up in a military family I was obviously exposed to the life of numerous Catholic military chaplains and remember well their generosity and devotion. While at Christendom College, I befriended one of the chaplains there who was also from Texas and had served as a Navy Chaplain for over 20 years. Father Kind would always recollect about his life in the fleet and how those years where some of the best years of his priesthood. Father Kind has been one of the influencing forces behind my calling to the priesthood and in particular to the military chaplaincy. Christendom College produced many vocations to the priesthood and in May of 2011 I was reacquainted with a former classmate of mine who had joined the Fathers of Mercy in Auburn, Ky. Father Tony Stephens is the Vocations Director for the Fathers of Mercy. He has motivated me spiritually and has been an excellent spiritual advisor. These two priests have been the motivating factor for my current desire to enter the seminary for the specific purpose of serving the Archdiocese for the Military Services. WHAT WOULD PEOPLE BE SURPRISED TO KNOW ABOUT YOU? That I served as a Special Forces Medical Sergeant on an Operational Detachment Alpha (A-Team) in the U.S. Army Special Forces. Most people look at me and see an academic, not a Green Beret.

24

summer 2013 |


Continue WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SCRIPTURE PASSAGE, WHY? JOHN 1:18 The Christology in those verses are very beautiful and tell of not only who Our Lord is, but the purpose of the Incarnation and the gratuitous gift of grace offered to all so as to “become children of God.” The love of God towards His fallen creatures takes on a new meaning here. HOW DID YOU COME TO KNOW JESUS CHRIST PERSONALLY? Through His Church, Sacraments, Word, and prayer which was passed on to me by His ministers and taught to me especially by my mother. WHAT WERE SOME OF THE SPIRITUAL EVENTS OR ACTIVITIES THAT HELPED YOU DEVELOP AND SHARE YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH CHRIST AND HIS CHURCH? Frequent, if not daily attendance at Mass and reception of the Eucharist has been pivotal to my relationship with Our Lord and His Church. The frequent reception of the sacrament of penance has also played a big part in my spiritual life. Reading and studying the scripture has an important part in my spiritual life as well as the daily recitation of the Holy Rosary and chaplet of Divine Mercy. I am also a strong advocate of Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament. HAVE ANY SAINTS OR CHURCH LEADERS PARTICULARLY INSPIRED YOUR DISCERNMENT JOURNEY? I have always admired the lives of St. Padre Pio and St. John Vianney. When a Navy chaplain gave a talk at Christendom on the life and merits of the Servant of God Father Vincent Capodanno, I instantly took a liking to his story, as well as the life and death of the Servant of God Father Emil Kapaun. I was moved by the way these priests sacrificed their lives to minister to their flock in such austere and horrible conditions. WHAT WAS YOUR PROFESSIONAL AND/OR ACADEMIC AND/OR MILITARY BACKGROUND BEFORE APPLYING TO BE A SEMINARIAN APPLICANT? I studied theology at the undergraduate level at Christendom College from 1998-2001, taking two semesters off during that time to work. After my three years at Christendom, I enlisted in the U.S. Army for 8.5 years (May 2002 - December 2010). While in the U.S. Army, I served as an infantryman, grenadier, M-240 gunner, a fire team leader for an Infantry team for three years and was deployed to Iraq for one year (September 2003 - September 2004). After being promoted to Sergeant (E-5), I tried out and was accepted into the Special Forces Qualification Course (Q-Course) in May 2005. The Q-Course is the training pipeline/program for becoming a U.S. Army Special Forces soldier, more commonly known as the Green Berets. While in the Q-Course. I studied medicine since I was training to become a Special Forces Medical Sergeant (everyone on an A-Team has a specialty). I graduated from the Q-Course and earned my Green Beret in March 2008 as an 18 Delta. I was deployed to Afghanistan for 7 months with my Special Forces Operational Detachment Alpha (A-Team) in 2008. I served on a Special Forces Operational Detachment Bravo (S-Team) from 2009 until being honorably discharged from the U.S. Army in December of 2010. In January of 2011, I resumed my theology studies at the University of St. Thomas in Houston, Texas and earned my undergraduate degree in Catholic Theology in August 2012. WHAT WAS THE NEXT TO LAST BOOK YOU READ, AND WHAT ARE YOU CURRENTLY READING? Sounds of Silence...a monk’s journey by Father Benedict Kossmann. Currently reading The Story of a Soul: The Autobiography of St. Therese of Lisieux translated by John Beevers; The Rite: The making of a Modern Exorcist by Matt Baglio; starting the book of Isaiah for Advent. summer 2013 |

25


The Blessings Juan Magsaysay Rosete DIOCESE: Diocese of Springfield-Cape Girardeau, Mo RANK / BRANCH OF SERVICE: E4 / SPC, U.S. Army HIGH SCHOOL ATTENDED: Mc Auley Catholic High School, Joplin, Mo. COLLEGE ATTENDED: Benedictine College, Atchison, Kansas HOBBIES: Reading, exercising, shooting, traveling, and finding great places to eat. I attempted to play football in High School, but found my passion in debate.

WHEN WAS THE FIRST TIME YOU THOUGHT YOU MIGHT HAVE A VOCATION TO THE PRIESTHOOD? It was during my junior year in high school. There was no one moment; it just came into my mind. I knew that I wanted to serve others when I grew older, so the idea of priesthood was planted in my mind. After that it just grew and grew and then I realized, “Hey, I probably have a calling!” WHO OR WHAT EVENTS INFLUENCED OR INSPIRED YOU IN YOUR DISCERNMENT JOURNEY? My religion teacher, Mrs. Feathers, she spent a lot of time teaching us about Catholic Social Justice and she encouraged us to read Maryknoll magazine. My parish priest, Father J, also influenced me greatly. The way he treated other people in the parish and the way he interacted with the high school students and lived his vocation was beautiful to me. You could really see that the priesthood was his calling. WHAT WOULD PEOPLE BE SURPRISED TO KNOW ABOUT YOU? Well I really hope people would not be surprised with me, I like to think of myself as an open book. I guess the one thing that they may find surprising is the fact that I really like to shoot. I find it very relaxing and a great way to practice focus in one’s life. I am also a fan of traveling and adventure. I believe the more you push yourself out of your comfort zone, the more you live your life. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SCRIPTURE PASSAGE, WHY? Matthew 4: 18-22 It’s the one where Jesus calls the apostles. Ever since I was a kid it amazed me, these guys had lives, careers, and families. They left it all for Him; they left it all to follow Jesus. Every time I read that passage I think I am finally getting it. It is not just a call for the apostles; it is a call for all of us. When we are called by Jesus we must drop everything and follow Him, no matter what. It is a call for complete trust and love for God. I know it is often used to describe the call for priesthood, but I think it is also about how Jesus calls all of us to serve Him.

26

summer 2013 |


Continue HOW DID YOU COME TO KNOW JESUS CHRIST PERSONALLY? I came to know Jesus through the various people I have interacted with throughout my life. I am a firm believer that Christ lives in all of us, no matter what religious, ethnic, economic, or social background. Christ is in us and the way I talk to people and interact with them must be part of my spiritual journey. I also came to know Jesus personally through prayer and by practicing my Catholic faith. WHAT WERE SOME OF THE SPIRITUAL EVENTS OR ACTIVITIES THAT HELPED YOU DEVELOP AND SHARE YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH CHRIST AND HIS CHURCH? During the summer before my sophomore year of college, I did a 3-month mission in India. I was the English tutor for a group of girls in a home for prisoners children. I came there thinking that these girls would learn from me, but I was wrong, I learned more from them. They helped me understand what it means to serve others and accept the love that others bring in my life. Those girls were great spiritual teachers. Another event that helped me develop my relationship with Christ and His Church was when my hometown, Joplin, Mo., was hit by a massive tornado. I saw the people of my community come together and lift each other up from the wreckage of our town. People were driving their trucks around to pick up and aid the injured. I volunteered in my local high school and we turned that place into a shelter where people could find a place to sleep, a hot meal to eat, and the supplies they needed to survive. Everyone in the town worked together, you could really see God’s compassion and love during that time. HAVE ANY SAINTS OR CHURCH LEADERS PARTICULARLY INSPIRED YOUR DISCERNMENT JOURNEY? St. Francis of Assisi, St. Ignatius of Loyola, and St. Benedict. Those three saints are great examples of what it means to put one’s faith into action. St. Francis of Assisi call to serve others, especially the poorest of the poor; St. Ignatius’ zeal for his faith, and St. Benedict’s call for balance through work and prayer is what I would like to practice more in my life. WHAT WAS YOUR PROFESSIONAL AND/OR ACADEMIC AND/OR MILITARY BACKGROUND BEFORE APPLYING TO BE A SEMINARIAN APPLICANT? I attended the best Catholic College in America, Benedictine College, and earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in History. Afterwards I pursued my childhood dream of being a soldier. I enlisted as an Infantryman in the U.S. Army and I was stationed in Rose Barracks, Vilseck, Germany with the 2nd Cavalry Regiment. WHAT WAS THE NEXT TO LAST BOOK YOU READ, AND WHAT ARE YOU CURRENTLY READING? Game of Thrones by George Martin. I am currently reading On the Road by Jack Kerouac. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SPIRITUAL BOOK? “The Lamb’s Supper” by Scott Hahn, the way he describes the Mass as Heaven on earth was truly a mind blowing experience for me. It still amazes me whenever I read it. WHO ARE YOUR HEROES OR PEOPLE YOU SIGNIFICANTLY ADMIRE? My family, they are my first teachers, friends, and mentors. I love all of them. The chair of the History Department in Benedictine College, Dr. Everret Dague: talking to him was like talking to a friend. He was very approachable and he gave the best advice. He pushed us to think beyond our intellectual comfort zones and always encouraged us to find not our “careers” but our “calling” in life. Another one of my heroes is my former platoon sergeant, SSG. Jackson. He was one brutal NCO, but he never gave up on any of us and he never stopped believing in our full potential. He was the one who pushed me to go and pursue my call to the priesthood. I go to my best friend Joseph Humphrey before I make any decisions that will have a huge impact in my life. He is more like a brother to me. summer 2013 |

27


By TAYLOR HENRY

Accomplished Fund-Raiser Joins AMS as Director of Major Gifts

MS. MARY LAVIN

T

he Archdiocese for the Military Services (AMS) has a new senior staffer in charge of fund-raising. Mary Lavin came on board 22 April as Director of Major Gifts.

28

summer 2013 |


R

eporting to the Vicar General and working closely with the Archbishop, Ms. Lavin is responsible for identifying, cultivating, soliciting, and stewarding fund-raising prospects in concert with the archdiocese’s strategic priorities and objectives. In a global nonprofit organization that receives no government or military funding and depends entirely on private giving to meet a growing operating budget now approaching $5.2 million a year, she has her work cut out for her, but says she’s up for the challenge: “I look forward with great enthusiasm to representing the AMS throughout the United States, meeting with and thanking those whose support and generosity make possible the fulfillment of the mission of the AMS, and working to engage new individuals and resources in support of the same.” Before joining the AMS, Ms. Lavin served as Senior Manager of Strategic Gifts and Director of Fundraising for the Cleveland, Ohio Foodbank. Under her leadership, the Foodbank saw an 11% growth in operating and program support in fiscal years 2011 and 2012, an increase from $9.5 million to $10.6 million; and major gift fund-raising rose from $610,000 to $860,000, a 41% increase. Ms. Lavin’s success at the Cleveland Foodbank is but the latest in a long track record of professional accomplishments in various capacities of fund-raising and administration at colleges and universities, Catholic Charities and health care services throughout the Midwest and Northeast. They include John Carroll University, Hobart and William Smith Colleges, Wheaton College, College of the Holy Cross, and Catholic Charities Services Corporation of Cleveland. Ms. Lavin holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology from John Carroll University and a Master of Science degree in Social Administration/MSW from Case Western Reserve University.

His Excellency, the Most Reverend Timothy P. Broglio, Archbishop for the Military Services, welcomes Ms. Lavin to the AMS family. In announcing the appointment, Archbishop Broglio said: “I am anxious to have this global Archdiocese avail herself of Mary Lavin’s proven experience in the field of major fund-raising. While it is not my favorite aspect of my present role, it is vital to the health of the AMS. I am counting on Mary’s expertise to assure a sound financial footing for the ministry which has been entrusted to my pastoral care and oversight.” Among pressing archdiocesan financial needs depending on Ms. Lavin’s fund-raising success is the Co-Sponsored Seminarian Program for educating new priests to relieve a growing shortage of Catholic military chaplains. With 39 young men now in the program, the projected expense over the next five years is up to $2.5 million. This is in addition to other operational expenses for worldwide clergy travel, religious education, faith formation and other pastoral programs, maintenance of sacramental records, marriage tribunal activity and a full range of support services, building maintenance and administration. To meet these challenges, the new Director of Major Gifts draws on a strong set of relationship building skills. “Relationships are the foundation of all philanthropy and fund-raising efforts,” she says. Ms. Lavin is also driven by determination —the kind she demonstrated as Director of Alumni Relations at John Carroll when she orchestrated the university’s first alumni ROTC reunion in 60 years. The highlight of the weekend was having a distinguished alumnus, General Carter F. Ham, serve as keynote speaker just three weeks after he assumed command of the U.S. Army Europe. “Where there is a will, there is a way,” she says. > summer 2013 |

29


By TAYLOR HENRY

BISHOP ROBERT J. COYLE ORDAINED AT NATIONAL SHRINE

ALL PHOTOS BY: © JOHN WHITMAN PHOTOGRAPHY

30

summer 2013 |


L-R: BISHOPS BUCKON, HIGGINS, COYLE, ARCHBISHOP BROGLIO AND BISHOP SPENCER

T

he Archdiocese for the Military Services (AMS) has a new auxiliary bishop. His Excellency, the Most Reverend Robert J. Coyle, was ordained 25 April.

Bishop Coyle will serve as Episcopal Vicar for the Eastern Vicariate. The region encompasses some 70 military installations from North Dakota to Florida. He succeeds Bishop Joseph W. Estabrook, who died of cancer last year. The ordination restores to four the number of auxiliaries serving under His Excellency, the Most Reverend Timothy P. Broglio, J.C.D., Archbishop for the Military Services. Archbishop Broglio ordained Bishop Coyle as titular Bishop of Zabi through the invocation of the Holy Spirit and the imposition of hands during a solemn Mass. Bishops William Murphy of Rockville Centre, New York and Robert Guglielmone of Charleston, South Carolina served as coconsecrators. Rockville Centre is Bishop Coyle’s home diocese. Bishop Guglielmone is Rockville Centre’s former Director of Priestly Formation and Dean of Seminarians.

The Apostolic Nuncio to the United States, Archbishop Carlo Maria Viganò, and AMS Auxiliary Bishops Richard B. Higgins, F. Richard Spencer, and Neal J. Buckon concelebrated, along with dozens of other bishops and priests. The Church was filled to capacity, the pews packed with friends, AMS staffers, military personnel and other faithful and Bishop Coyle’s parents, Robert and Kathryn Coyle, and his sister and her husband, Kathy and Michael DeAngelis, on the front row. A Knights of Columbus Honor Guard lined up on either side of the center aisle as the organ-accompanied Choir of the Basilica heralded the opening procession. Before introductory rites, an Honor Guard presented the Colors during the singing of the National Anthem. Following the reading of the Apostolic Letter from Pope Benedict XVI appointing the new bishop, the congregation affirmed, (continued on page 40) summer 2013 |

31


By MONSIGNOR FRANK A. PUGLIESE

Bishop Joseph W. Estabrook Chapel Marine Corps Base, Hawaii

INTERIOR VIEW OF THE CHAPLAIN JOSEPH W. ESTABROOK CHAPEL, MCBH KANEOHE

T

he seventh day of May 2004 was a day that changed the lives of two friends. On that day Pope John Paul II appointed Monsignor Joseph Estabrook an auxiliary bishop. A month later, he retired from the Navy in Hawaii at Marine Corps Base, Kaneohe Bay, where he had been instrumental in the planning and building of a new chapel to serve the needs of peoples of all faiths.

32

summer 2013 |


ENTRANCE TO THE CHAPLAIN JOSEPH W. ESTABROOK CHAPEL, MCBH KANEOHE

M

onsignor Estabrook had asked to be the Command Chaplain at Kaneohe Bay because he wanted to be a chapel pastor after having served several tours in administrative positions. He extended his tour on Hawaii to see the completion of a new base chapel. Then, he would retire and return to his home diocese in New York. Once, when asked if he would do something for a Catholic community, he said, “Say yes to everything.” When he said, “Yes” to the Holy Father and accepted the appointment as a bishop, his life changed. Half a world away was another Navy Chaplain assigned to United States Fifth Fleet in the kingdom of Bahrain. I was a friend of Bishop Estabrook’s and was waiting for the end of his tour in Hawaii because I was to take his place there – a dream I had had for many years. Instead, I spent three awesome years at Marine Corps Base, Okinawa. After I retired from the Navy, Archbishop Broglio asked me to be his Vicar General at the Military Archdiocese. I remember vividly a conversation I had with Bishop Estabrook. We talked about how our lives had changed. I spoke about my dream to be stationed in Hawaii and the joy I had found in the Marines and in the culture of Okinawa, Japan. He spoke about his ministry as a bishop and the opportunities he had to deepen the faith of service members in all branches of the service. Then, he said, “Life is a journey, and God is the travel agent. As priests, our role is to be prepared to go where He leads us and to give the Marines and Sailors whom we serve the tools to walk that journey.” This is what the people of Marine Corps Base remembered about Bishop Joseph Estabrook. He was a pastor, a shepherd, and a companion who walked the journey with those whom he served. On February 1, 2013, almost nine years after he retired from the Navy, the community at Marine Corps Base, Hawaii, dedicated the base chapel, which he had planned and built, in his name. It stands today as a living memorial of a bishop, priest, pastor, and shepherd who lives on both in the chapel, and in the hearts and minds of those whose lives he touched. > summer 2013 |

33


By MARK T. MOITOZA, D.MIN. VICE CHANCELLOR FOR EVANGELIZATION

Pope Francis Wants a Poor Church, For the Poor

POPE FRANCIS

O

n March 21, 2013 Vatican Radio reported that Pope Francis said he wants “a poor Church, for the poor.” The 265th Successor of Peter said so while telling the media why he had taken the name Francis. Explaining how he was attracted to this name because it represents both ‘poverty and peace’.

34

summer 2013 |


I

n the United States, many who desire to serve the poor seek out mission trips to impoverished areas far away from home. Youth and young adults are often the first to spend time on an alternative ‘Spring Break’ helping to build houses, cleaning up disaster areas, or stocking supplies in soup kitchens. Their example reminds us that there is more to life than the daily routines we traverse to ensure our own comfort.

T

he Gospel calls each of us to serve the poor. As Catholics, we are challenged to open our eyes to those who are poor and are living in our midst. We do not have to travel far and wide to find those in need. The issue of poverty surrounds us, no matter where we live.

M

odern life tends to push that which is uncomfortable far away or at least as far as arms length, to make it easier to pass by. We use excuses such as, ‘What difference could I make?’ or ‘I am spending my energy to keep myself and my family comfortable.’ What does a poor Church that serves the poor look like?

T

A

wonderful resource that unfolds this rich Catholic tradition may be found on the website of Just Faith Ministries, www.justfaith.org. Just Faith provides programs that transform people and expand their commitment to social ministry. Through life-changing opportunities, members of a church or parish can study, explore and experience Christ’s call to care for the poor and vulnerable in a lively, challenging, multifaceted process in the context of a small faith community.

T

here are programs for adults, young adults, and older high school youth. My wife, Sherry, and I served as leaders for the Justice Walking high school program several years ago in our parish in Maryland. J-Walking provided twelve weekly sessions with time for study, dialogue, mentoring, reflection, prayer, and sharing. One week we would focus on a particular topic about prophetic living. The next week we would spend an hour meeting people at the margins through service along with an hour to reflect together where we had seen Christ. The program involves retreats, spiritual practices, a community wide witness gathering, and the opportunity to make a difference in the neighborhood.

he human person and the dignity of each person is always the starting point. If we are made in the image and likeness of God then we must see God in everyone. While we are tempted to walk by the people with problems, Pope Francis began his Pontificate reminding us that we are called to reach out of our comfort zones and move he teens in our group encouraged the into the messiness of the world, to provide parish to make donations to furnish a compassionate presence, person to person, an apartment fully for a family escaping and to recognize Christ in one another – domestic abuse. The experience of getting in our neighbors.

T

(continued on page 45)

summer 2013 |

35


By JOSÉ M. AMAYA, DIRECTOR OF FAITH FORMATION

Forming Disciples for the New Evangelization

L-R: JOSÉ AMAYA, MARK MOITOZA, AND ARCHBISHOP TIMOTHY P. BROGLIO AT THE LIVE STREAM CURRICULUM ORIENTATION.

A

rchbishop Timothy P. Broglio promulgated Forming Disciples for the New Evangelization: Archdiocesan Religion Curriculum Guide for use throughout the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA (AMS) on January 25, 2013 the Feast of the Conversion of Saint Paul. The curriculum becomes effective for full implementation for all military Catholic faith communities on August 6, 2013 the Feast of the Transfiguration of the Lord.

36

summer 2013 |


I

n February and March, the AMS held gatherings for military-connected leaders at the Los Angeles Religious Education Congress and the MidAtlantic Congress in Baltimore. To better reach the global archdiocese the AMS hosted a Live Stream Curriculum Orientation on March 19th. The video content of the Live Stream is posted on the AMS website in the Office of Faith Formation section. Together, these gatherings marked the start of leadership and catechist training for effective implementation of the curriculum.

T

here will be an in-service for priests about the Curriculum Guide during the Fall AMS Priest Convocations. According to the AMS, the Catholic priest is the Director of Religious Education. The priest, working in respectful and mutual communication, consultation, and collaboration with the lay catechetical leader, is responsible for the full implementation of Forming Disciples for the New Evangelization. Every military branch and installation does not enjoy the benefit of hiring a professionally trained lay catechetical leader. Therefore, the Catholic priest directs Catholic programming on the teaching of the Catholic faith in partnership with the lay catechetical leader.

A

Catechetical Methodology course will be made available through the University of Dayton’s Virtual Learning Communities of Faith Formation (VLCFF) to help catechists learn how to use the curriculum. Participants will learn how to apply five core methodologies to create effective lesson plans. They will also

learn how to use textbooks as supporting resources to teach the Catholic faith to all. This VLCFF course will be available beginning with cycle 4 (May 26-June 29). This particular course will count towards the basic AMS catechist certification requirement.

T

he Archdiocese for the Military Services is grateful to the Archdiocese of Washington for granting permission to adapt Forming Disciples for the New Evangelization to the language and culture of military settings. The curriculum contains fourteen standards applicable to Pre-school to 8th grade equally. Each standard is unpacked by age appropriate indicators. The four pillars of the Catechism of the Catholic Church and the six tasks of catechesis outlined in the National Directory for Catechesis, no. 20, provide the foundation for the standards and indicators. The standards and indicators in the curriculum clearly state what participants in every Catholic faith community religious education program must know, understand and do at each grade level (Pre-K to 8). Although written with children in mind, the curriculum has implications for young adults and adolescents in the Archdiocese.

I

n response to the request from both clergy and laity, the curriculum is a tool that provides a common language and agreed upon standards for sharing the Catholic faith in this global Archdiocese. It will challenge catechetical leadership, parents, and catechists to grow because it is standards-based, tied to its own assessment, and spiral in scope and sequence. (continued on page 45) summer 2013 |

37


By TAYLOR HENRY

FATHER EMIL KAPAUN AWARDED MEDAL OF HONOR, Inducted into Pentagon Hall of Heroes © OFFICIAL WHITE HOUSE PHOTO BY PETE SOUZA

NEPHEW OF FATHER KAPAUN, RAY KAPAUN HOLDING MEDAL OF HONOR JUST GIVEN TO HIM BY PRESIDENT OBAMA.

t the White House on 11 April, Korean War hero Father

A

Emil J. Kapaun Chaplain (Capt.) USA was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor—the nation’s highest military decoration—for conspicuous gallantry, nearly 62 years after his death at 35 in a POW camp.

38

summer 2013 |


P

resident Obama presented the medal to nephew Ray Kapaun in a moving, nationally televised East Room ceremony attended by the late priest’s family, surviving fellow prisoners of war, military dignitaries and chaplains, and other Catholic clergy, including AMS Auxiliary Bishop Richard Higgins and the Vicar General, Monsignor Frank Pugliese. The President hailed the extraordinary valor of the “shepherd in combat boots” who could turn a “mud hut into a Cathedral,” describing him as “an FATHER KAPAUN American soldier who didn’t fire a gun, but who wielded the mightiest weapon of all, a love for his brothers so pure that he was willing to die so that they might live.” Recounting the 1-2 Nov., 1950 Battle of Unsan, the President told how Father Kapaun “raced between foxholes, out past the front lines and into no-man’s land — dragging the wounded to safety,” eventually persuading a wounded Chinese officer to negotiate surrender. Among those present for the ceremony, Herbert A. Miller (pictured page 6) of Pulaski, N.Y. choked back tears and dabbed his eyes as the President told his personal story: “An enemy soldier was standing over him, rifle aimed at his head, ready to shoot. And Father Kapaun marched over and pushed the enemy soldier aside. And then as the soldier watched, stunned, Father Kapaun carried that wounded American away… as their captors forced them on a death march.” The President described life in the prisoner-of-war camp that winter—how Father Kapaun shared his clothes with fellow prisoners to keep them from freezing to death, snuck rice and potatoes from nearby fields past the guards, and blessed his captors, saying “Forgive them… they know not what they do” as they carried him to a death house where he died 23 May 1951 after contracting pneumonia. The day after the White House ceremony, Father Kapaun was inducted into the Pentagon Hall of Heroes. At the induction, Ray Kapaun spoke. “I know Father Emil,” he said, “if he were standing up here today, I know he would look back on these last two days and say, ‘Aw shucks! Are you kidding me? You guys did all of this for me? All I was really doing was my job. All I was doing is what I needed to do. All I was doing was what God directed me to do. There were a lot braver men than what I am.’ But he would also look out at his POW buddies, and I know he would walk over to you guys today and wrap his arms around you, and he would say, ‘I’m so happy you guys made it home. But please, please don’t be sad for me, because I made it home, too.’” > summer 2013 |

39


BISHOP ROBERT J. COYLE ORDAINED AT NATIONAL SHRINE (continued from page 31)

elect about his resolve to “Thanks Be to God!” and uphold the faith and to broke out in applause. Archdischarge his duty in the bishop Broglio delivered a episcopal ministry. homily fit for the special “I do, with the help of occasion of the Thursday God”. he replied. afternoon ordination—the The bishop-elect lay feast of St. Mark: prostrate as the congrega“The feast of St. Mark tion prayed for God to reminds us of the imporbestow grace upon him tance of evangelization, the to provide for the needs duty to announce the truth of the Church. After —regardless of the opposiBISHOP F. RICHARD SPENCER, IMPOSING HANDS imposing his hands, the tion, and the privilege to be ON BISHOP ROBERT COYLE, WHILE BISHOP BUCKON AND BROTHER BISHOPS AWAIT THEIR most important moment sent forth to minister to the OPPORTUNITY TO DO THE SAME. of the rite, Archbishop varied categories of people Broglio anointed his head with Chrism and who belong to this personal Archdiocese. “Very much like the Apostles, pastoral placed a ring on his finger to wear always ministry in the Archdiocese for the Military as a symbol of the bishop’s fidelity to and Services, USA, has the globe as its area nuptial bond with the Church, his spouse. The archbishop placed a miter on his of ministry. We are challenged with a shorthead, echoing the one worn by the High age of priests, an abundant flock, and daunting distances. The addition of another Priest in the Jerusalem Temple and a promAuxiliary Bishop will allow me to ensure a ise of the “unfading crown of glory.” He simpler episcopal presence and oversight to then gave him the pastoral staff, a sign of the entire Archdiocese entrusted to my pas- the bishop’s shepherding and governing oftoral care. Bishop-elect Coyle, I am grateful fice to keep watch over his flock. Once for your willingness to accept this ministry seated, Bishop Coyle received the kiss of and to leave behind the familiar to embrace peace from each of the gathered bishops. the nomadic task of pastoral visitation.” Taking his turn at the pulpit at the The Archbishop quipped that the addi- end of Mass, Bishop Coyle, a retired U.S. tion of Bishop Coyle, 48, would lower the Navy Chaplain, gave thanks to Almighty median age of active AMS bishops by three God and explained his choice of motto— years, but he added: “I can assure you that “Lord bid me come to you”— from St. you will need the vigor and stamina of youth, Matthew’s account of Peter’s attempt to join the enthusiasm of a pastor, and the fire of Jesus walking on water. “I pray as I venture the Spirit to accomplish the arduous task out to new waters in my ministry,” he said, of bringing the Gospel to the women, men, “I may be an instrument to help others and children we are privileged to serve.” to know His grace and love and when Following an ancient Church custom, necessary extend my arm to pull people Archbishop Broglio questioned the bishop- up!” >

40 summer 2013 |


By MONSIGNOR JAMES BURNETT

A Groundbreaking Partnership

T MONSIGNOR JAMES BURNETT

he Archdiocese of Chicago and the Department of Veterans Affairs Hines VA Hospital are collaborating on a groundbreaking effort to reach out to military veterans and their families. In early 2013, almost 150 clergy and laity from theArchdiocese of Chicago attended one of two special programs, entitled: Building Trust, Restoring Hope: The VA and Catholic Church Partner to Heal Veterans and Their Families.

addressing how their faith brought them through the traumas of war. Since the inception of the one-day programs, representatives from over 150 parishes in the Archdiocese of Chicago have participated. A new database of the participants has been created to provide further resources and connections to ministry leaders and parish staffs. As a result of this initiative the Archdiocese of Chicago is developing a plan to offer evening programs for veterans and family members throughout the Archdiocese of Chicago. The gatherings will offer short presentations, Q&A sessions, and a safe environment for participants to tell their stories. One of the main goals of this collaboration is to highlight the many effective spiritual and medical services that the VA has to offer. The Archdiocese of Chicago is helping the VA reach out to various ethnic groups throughout the community to ensure that those who have served are aware of the healing resources available at the Hines VA • TBI (Traumatic Brain Injury) Hospital. As Monsignor Burnett often says, • PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) “visibility leads to credibility.” This collaboration is a marvelous way for the Hines VA • Suicide Prevention Hospital and the Catholic Church to work • Women’s Health together to reach out into the community and • Blind Rehab serve those in need. For more about this ini• Homelessness tiative, contact Monsignor Burnett, President Three veterans took the time to give of the National Conference for VA Catholic emotional testimonials at the programs; Chaplains at 708.202.7268. >

M

onsignor James “Jim” Burnett, Chief, Hines VA Chaplain Service, and Dr. Tom Nutter, Assistant Chief, Mental Health Service at Hines VA, in collaboration with Carol Walters, Director of Ecclesial Ministry, from the Archdiocese of Chicago, began the idea with a goal of educating the clergy and laity of the Archdiocese of Chicago to bring a fuller understanding of what the VA has to offer for returning veterans and their families. “It is very important that we help ministry leaders understand reintegration issues specific to veterans as they assimilate back to civilian life after having been deployed to a war zone,” said Monsignor Burnett. “These veterans have some healing to do, both physically and spiritually. It’s critical that we all work together to help them the best that we can.” The recent programs opened and closed with sessions on spiritual injury and its effects on the returning veteran. The program also included six, ten-minute presentations on

summer 2013 |

41


By SR. MAUREEN COLLEARY, FSP Pastoral Services Team, RENEW International

Bringing Small Christian Communities to Our Service Men and Women

WHY CATHOLIC? Launched in the Eastern Vicariate

DR. MARK MOITOZA AND SISTER MAUREEN COLLEARY (FAR LEFT FRONT) JOIN ARCHBISHOP TIMOTHY BROGLIO (CENTER) AND MEMBERS OF SEVERAL BASES AT THE AUGUST 2012 WHY CATHOLIC? TRAINING AT MACDILL AFB IN FLA.

M

ilitary personnel have unique challenges, often facing danger and living far from home. RENEW International believes that Why Catholic? Journey Through the Catechism benefits our men and women in uniform because many of life’s adversities are best addressed within a group setting, using faith and prayer to foster greater connectedness to and understanding of God at work in our lives.

42 summer 2013 |


MONSIGNOR PHILIP W. HILL, GARRISON COMMAND CHAPLAIN AT FT. BELVOIR (FAR LEFT) HOSTS THE SECOND WHY CATHOLIC? TRAINING THIS PAST APRIL IN VIRGINIA.

A

key objective of Why Catholic? is to help people in the military develop a more personal relationship with God through better understanding of the Catholic faith, and to help them be able to live a fuller Christ-centered life. With military personnel often far from home and in harm’s way, building a deeper faith is vital for them, their spouses, and their children. At the core of Why Catholic? is the formation of small Christian communities for prayer, reflection, and sharing. These small groups provide an ideal, supportive environment for awakening and deepening faith in a way that is both effective and engaging.

hy Catholic? also fosters a more vibrant Catholic community on each military base. RENEW International’s professional presenters train lay leaders at military bases in how to lead Why Catholic? Participants use the Why Catholic? series of books and spiritual music to explore the pillars of Catholic teaching through the lens of Scripture and the Catechism of the Catholic Church: how we pray, what we

W

believe, how we worship, and how we live. The resources then encourage small group members to put their deeper faith into action in their lives.

M

onsignor Philip W. Hill, Garrison Command Chaplain at Ft. Belvoir, is excited to bring this experience to his chapel community, “We have a very active and vibrant Catholic Community at Ft. Belvoir. Why Catholic? helps take us to the next level. The training we have gone through has given new confidence to each of our leaders. Talk about contagious! Each week more and more people seek to join us, and the number of the small communities is growing. I am so glad we have this opportunity for our lay people to assume new dimensions of spiritual leadership with their fellow parishioners.”

M

ilitary participants in Why Catholic? report that they develop a stronger commitment to their faith, become more confident sharing it with others, and feel part of a supportive Christian community. More (continued on page 44) summer 2013 |

43


Bringing Small Christian Communities to Our Service Men and Women

WHY CATHOLIC? Launched in the Eastern Vicariate (continued from page 43)

than 40 military installations have successfully implemented Why Catholic? since 2006, reaching almost 4,000 Catholics.

These bases / installations are currently participating in Why Catholic?

• Ft. Belvoir, Va. • MacDill AFB, Fla. • USMC Cherry Point, N.C. • Redstone Arsenal, Ala. • Ft. Meade, Md. • Ft. Bragg, N.C. • Ft. Benning, Ga. • Ft. Jackson, S.C. • Seymour Johnson AFB, S.C. • King’s Bay USN, Ga. • Dover AFB, Del.

T

his August and September, additional trainings will be presented at Ft. Belvoir, Va. and MacDill AFB, Fla. for the Eastern Vicariate. Chapel teams and small commu-

nity leaders will also have access to ongoing pastoral consultation and a library of webbased resources to ensure a positive experience. Through a new partnership between Catholic Extension, RENEW International, and the Archdiocese for the Military Services, bases can now take full advantage of this proven process with no service fees.

N

ew chapel communities, and new participants at current communities, are welcome to join this process. For more information, please contact Sr. Maureen Colleary at maureenc@renewintl.org or Dr. Mark Moitoza at mmoitoza@milarch.org. To learn more about Why Catholic? Journey Through the Catechism visit our website at www.whycatholic.org. ABOUT RENEW INTERNATIONAL RENEW International is a Catholic ministry organization based in the Archdiocese of Newark that fosters spiritual renewal in the Catholic tradition. It can be found on the web at www.renewintl.org or at www.facebook.com/renewintl. >

Save the Dates Annual Memorial Mass for Father Capodanno 4 SEPT 2013* – Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception Washington, D.C.

Annual Event 7 NOVEMBER 2013 – Army Navy Country Club Arlington, Virginia * PLEASE NOTE OF CHANGE OF DATE

44 summer 2013 |


Forming Disciples for the New Evangelization (continued from page 37)

What are the implications of Forming Disciples for the New Evangelization? • There are clear expectations for the teaching of the Catholic faith. • There is greater accountability through assessment. • Assessing the faith knowledge of participants allows those responsible for the teaching of the faith to address areas of weakness in a timely manner and with greater partnership of parents as the primary educators of faith for their children.

E

ach military Catholic faith community may continue to use the textbook that best fits its particular needs. The textbook will serve as a tool to teach the faith using the new curriculum standards and indicators. As previously required, all textbooks must be listed on the USCCB Conformity List. Publishers will develop a curriculum correlation for their recently published textbook series to assist catechists in military settings in the process of developing effective lesson plans. > Clergy and lay catechetical leaders are encouraged to contact José Amaya, Director of Faith Formation, regarding questions, resources, training and implementation of Forming Disciples for the New Evangelization: jamaya@milarch.org or 202.719.3623.

• The curriculum provides greater opportunity for all the partners (parents, children and youth, and catechists) in the catechetical process to return to each topic each year in an ever deeper way by using the resources provided on the AMS website www.milarch.org. • All catechetical leaders, parents, and catechists have free access to the entire curriculum and its supporting resources.

Pope Francis Wants a Poor Church, For the Poor (continued from page 35)

to know people living at the margins changed the lives of all involved. Two of the teenagers in the group have since graduated college and joined the Jesuit Volunteer Corps. Transformation happens through interpersonal encounters that stretch us beyond what we think we can endure.

J

ust Faith Ministries programs is one of many ways that Catholic faith communities may respond to Pope Francis’ call to become a Poor Church, for the Poor. Pray together in your military Catholic faith community to consider how members in your area can interact with those in need. > summer 2013 |

45


Deacon on the Move

(continued from page 13)

I

n the evening, Deacon Lente picked me up from my hotel and took me out for supper. We finished our conversation hours after dinner was complete. It was great learning about his family and his career and about the activities at Kirtland. Like most deacons with AMS faculties, Deacon Lente is a veteran. He was an avionics technician in the Air Force just like me! The deacon conference focused on New Evangelization and the topics were very timely for me as I have been invited by Father Joseph Lea to lead a mission for the Catholic community at Fort Gordon. I took a lot of notes that are going to be very helpful in preparing my presentations. Even though I was not a presenter at the conference I think I could have been. As soon as people found out where I was from I had people lined up to talk with me. Most wanted to know about the role of the deacon in the military and how they could help. There was a great deal of interest in serving the men and women who serve in our country’s military. I was more than happy to talk with everyone. On the evening of the second day of the conference we took a trip to Santa Fe to see the Miraculous Staircase. When the Loretto Chapel was completed in 1878, there was no way for the choir to reach the choir loft. The sisters asked several craftsmen to design a staircase to the choir loft but they all concluded that the best way to reach the choir loft 22’ overhead was by ladder as any other design would take up too much precious space. So the sisters did what they

46 summer 2013 |

ABOVE: KIRTLAND AFB CHAPEL LEFT: LORETTO CHAPEL'S MIRACULOUS STAIRCASE

do best, they prayed a novena to Saint Joseph asking for help. On the ninth day of the novena an old man with a donkey approached them looking for work. Several months later the staircase was complete and the man disappeared never to be seen again. The staircase has two 360 turns and no visible means of support. To this day engineers are still perplexed by its design. Tradition has it that St. Joseph himself built the staircase for the nuns. Thanks so much to Father Linus and the Catholic community and to Chaplain Elbert for the courtesy you showed me during my visit. I enjoyed meeting with you all. >

Peace! +PAX Deacon Mike


UPCOMING NATIONAL CATHOLIC CONFERENCES National Catholic Youth Conference | Nov. 21-23, 2013

J

oin the Archdiocese for the Military Services youth and adult leaders planning to attend the National Catholic Youth Conference, the largest gathering of Catholic youth in the United States, November 21-23 in Indianapolis, to be “Signed. Sealed. Delivered.” The three-day event has been described by youth, priests, and other adults as faith-filled, action-packed, and fun! The participants experience some of the most amazing liturgies and prayer experiences, great speakers and clean entertainment throughout the conference. Celebrate the end of the Year of Faith with the young church. Attend workshops that will enable youth and adult leaders to bring ideas back to the military Catholic faith communities where they serve. • Learn more about NCYC online at http://ncyc.nfcym.org/ • Learn more about registering for NCYC through the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA online at www.milarch.org/ymgatherings

National Catholic Collegiate Conference

| Nov. 21-23, 2013

Y

oung adults ages 18 to 25 in the Archdiocese for the Military Services are invited to take their Catholic faith to the next level! The 2013 National Catholic Collegiate Conference (NCCC) will be held in Indianapolis November 21-23. Today’s college-aged and post-graduate young adults live in a secular world that battles their sacred beliefs. NCCC affirms your place in the world, presents a unique faith experience, and empowers you for the road ahead. NCCC is three days of inspiring keynotes, engaging workshops, dynamic prayer and worship, exceptional music and entertainment, networking, and gaining a deeper awareness of what it means to be a Catholic young adult today. End the Year of Faith bringing your faith to the next level. • For more information and to register visit http://www.ntlccc.org/ • Learn more about resources for young adults in the military online, www.milarch.org/yagatherings summer 2013 |

47


— Archbishop Timothy P. Broglio.

Thank you for your continued support, I wish you a restful and renewing summer.

“Serving Those Who Serve”

Hicksville, NY Permit No. 134

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

PAID

Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage

Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA


Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.