Salute Spring 2013

SPRING 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

“Padres� Keeping the Spirit Strong!

13 priest-chaplains serving nearly 16, 500 Catholic U.S. military personnel currently deployed in Afghanistan

Dear Friends of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, SPRING 2013

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inter still holds us in its grasp, but there are a few faint harbingers of the approach of a new season.

Springtime always offers evidence of renewed life and hope. The most important annual solemn celebration of the year, Easter, reminds us of the great love the Father has for us.

He sent His Son Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ to save us. What a A R C H D Imarvelous O C E S E Ftime O R TtoHsend E M Ioff L I another T A R Y Sissue E RV Iof CE S, USA Salute.

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any exciting bits of news have occurred since you last read these pages. The Archdiocese has launched the Father Vincent Capodanno Guild as the sole petitioner and promoter of the Cause for the “Grunt Padre’s” canonization. A new effort has also been made to buttress the important mission of the Military Council of Catholic Women (MCCW). An archdiocesan curriculum for religious education from pre-kindergarten to the eighth grade has also been launched.

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his issue of the AMS quarterly publication will, of course, recount the pastoral visits made by the Bishops and me over the Christmas holidays and offer a brief look at the up-coming pastoral programs and events in the Archdiocese. One exciting annual event is the International Military Pilgrimage to Our Lady’s Shrine of Lourdes at the end of May. This year a special effort is being made to include more wounded warriors.

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n behalf of all of those to whom the Archdiocese for the Military Services ministers, I give special thanks to my brother Bishops who have approved a national collection every three years to defray the operational costs of the AMS and those associated with the education of seminarians. This initiative of Archbishop Chaput and the Bishops of the Province of Denver met with overwhelming support at the General Assembly of the Bishops’ Conference last November.

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

Sincerely in Christ,

Most Reverend Timothy P. Broglio Archbishop

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THE MAGAZINE OF THE ARCHDIOCESE FOR THE MILITARY SERVICES, USA VOLUME 7. NUMBER 1 SPRING 2013

table of contents 4 Christmas in Korea Archbishop Timothy P. Broglio

8 The Odyssey Continues Bishop Richard B. Higgins

10 Archdiocesan Curriculum for Religious Education Decree 12 Middle East Visits Bishop Neal Buckon

15 Footwear: “What are You Wearing” Bishop F. Richard Spencer

16 Heroes Among Us Father Kerry Abbott, O.F.M Conv.

18-25 The Harvest Continues... Meet Our Newest Seminarians 30 Welcome to Pilsen Monsignor Frank A. Pugliese

38 Forty-One Years and Counting 42 Remembering Monsignor Jerome Sommer Nation’s Oldest Military Chaplain 46 AMS Announces Bishop-elect Coyle y“PADRES” p y COVER g ON OUR

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L-R STANDING (BACK ROW) :

LT Benton L. Garrett, USN - Archdiocese of Washington • CAPT George Okoth, USA – Diocese of Homa Bay, Kenya MAJ Tyson J. Wood, USA – Archdiocese of Baltimore • CAPT Arkadiusz Ochalek, USA – Archdiocese of Baltimore MAJ James Peak, USA – Diocese of Spokane • CAPT Matthew Foley, USA – Archdiocese of Chicago MAJ Kenneth Nielson, USA – Diocese of Austin • CAPT Jason E. Hesseling, USA – Diocese of Madison CAPT Steve McDermott, USA – Archdiocese of Philadelphia L-R SEATED (FRONT ROW) :

LT COL James Krische, USA – Diocese of Brooklyn • LT COL Michael Travaglione, USA – OFM Conv.

COL Austin Coe, USA – Archdiocese of Seoul, Korea • LT COL Jerzy Rzasowski, USA – Archdiocese Wroclaw, Poland

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.

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.

By ARCHBISHOP TIMOTHY P. BROGLIO

CHRISTMAS

IN KOREA

L-R MR. JOSEPH PAK, ARCHBISHOP TIMOTHY P. BROGLIO AND MR. ROY MELLON WITH CHASUBLE CRAFTED BY THE DISCIPLES OF THE DIVINE MASTER.

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orea beckoned again at Christmastime and it was another memorable visit to the Land of the Morning Calm. The priests stationed there, led by Fathers Andrew Lawrence and Michael Albano, worked diligently to establish a full program for my second pastoral visit there while still allowing me some time to catch my breath.

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f course, getting to Korea from Washington, DC is a long process. I suppose that there is some consolation in the fact that I left Seoul at 6:10 p.m. on 31 December and arrived at Reagan National Airport in Washington, DC at 8:55 p.m. the same night! Let me assure you that it was still seventeen hours later!

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uring my pastoral visit I was able to make a stop at most of the installations in South Korea. Only the visit to Chinhae had to be cancelled due to a six-inch snowfall in Daegu. Mind you, six inches of snow is nothing for a Clevelander, but in Cleveland we have snowplows and are prepared for the winter. The Commander of Area 4 told me that she wondered how she could communicate to Pacific Command, based in Hawaii her need for a snow plow!

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he visits outside of Seoul were all facilitated by Joseph Pak, a candidate for the Permanent Diaconate and a retired Army Officer. He was a constant companion and a faithful interpreter. He was also the chauffeur when Private Kim Hong Jae did not accompany us.

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ertainly the most significant moments after my arrival (four hours later than scheduled due to a missed plane at Dulles) were the reception of Mr. Pak and Roy Mellon as candidates for ordination to the diaconate and the Fourth Degree Exemplification, both held on 22 December at the Yongsan Chapel complex in Seoul.

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he support of the members of the Catholic community for two men who serve them now, but aspire to serve them as ordained deacons left no doubt that the

vocation of Joe and Roy has been confirmed by the community of faith.

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andidacy is a very simple rite which replaced tonsure and the admission to the clerical state. The men merely reaffirm their desire to be ordained and to continue their preparations. I accepted their candidacy and blessed their resolve to bring to completion the good work begun by God in them. I could not help but recall when the then Bishop James A. Hickey, Rector of the North American College welcomed me as a candidate for Major Orders almost forty years before. Please keep these two candidates in your prayers as they finish the academic and pastoral preparation for ordination.

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hat rite was preceded by the Fourth Degree Exemplification of the Bishop Joseph W. Estabrook Assembly 3348 of the Knights of Columbus. The instruction and celebration was impressive and the support of the Councils in Korea was evident. A number of Sir Knights received the Fourth Degree along with Fathers Albano and Catungal, and me.

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ollowing the Mass for the IV Sunday of Advent and Candidacy the Knights of Columbus and the Catholic Community hosted a splendid banquet at the Dragon Hill Lodge. Despite the name, no dragons were (continued on page 6) spring 2013 |

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CHRISTMAS IN KOREA in evidence, but the Chargé d’Affaires, a.i. of the Apostolic Nunciature, Monsignor Julian Kaboré, and his brother, a Jesuit priest currently teaching at Georgetown University, honored us with their presence.

Major General Michael R. Regner of the Marine Corps also lent his genial comments to contribute to the joy of the celebration.

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nfortunately, the Catholic Community had not forgotten that 22 December marked my 61st birthday. In addition to the traditional cake, the Knights presented me with a beautiful chasuble crafted by the Disciples of the Divine Master. It combines Eucharistic symbols with details from traditional Korean art. The craftsmanship is exquisite, but the material is fairly light-weight. It will be a wonderful remembrance of that community and an invitation to pray for them at each use of the chasuble.

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asses and protocol visits marked each stop on the “tour”, but the most precious moments were those spent with the members of each Catholic community.

They were happy to engage their Chief Shepherd and share their concerns. The opportunities to speak to them about the archdiocesan initiatives for the Year of Faith, the growing number of co-sponsored seminarians, and my hopes to render this global Church more present and more responsive to the needs of the faithful were precious indeed.

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(continued from page 5)

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t Kunsan the challenges to the heating system made all aware of the plunge in temperatures. The Wing Commander was kind enough to put the space heater by me during my office call with him. Its warmth was a welcome respite from the “freshness” of his office. A fellow alumnus of the Jesuit High School I attended also joined us for lunch there. I think he delighted in telling people that he was born two or three years after I was ordained a priest!

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he above-mentioned snowfall in Daegu forced an altered program in Daegu.

The changes were skillfully organized by Father Matthias Rendon, O.F.M. After a private Mass Joe Pak and I settled into the DV (Distinguished Visitor) quarters, but some of our hosts were eager to entertain us.

An Army Captain, his wife, and lovely daughter took us to dinner and communicated their experiences of life in Korea.

I completed his Christian initiation by administering confirmation at the Sunday vigil Mass the next day. I blessed their marriage, as well.

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fine luncheon at the Nunciature, a visit to the Archbishop of Seoul, and dinner with the Korean Military Ordinary also filled my time in Korea. The Archbishop is a very enthusiastic supporter of the Cause for the Canonization of the Servant of God Father Emil Kapaun. I returned to Washington with copies of the Korean translation of his life, of which I sent a copy to the Diocese of Wichita, the promoter of the Cause.

TIMOTHY P. BROGLIO CELEBRATING MASS AT A HIGH SCHOOL IN DAEGU.

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hese lines would limp if mention were not made of three other fine priests who contributed to my visit. Father Peter Nguyen Hoang welcomed me to Osan Air Base on Christmas Eve for the Vigil Mass and Christmas pageant. It was a delight to see the young people interpret the essential message of this Solemnity, the Birth of Our Savior. He was joined by Father Edgar Villanueva, the Army priest at Camp Humphreys who would welcome me the next day for another Christmas pageant and the Mass during the day.

Finally, Father Jesús Muñoz, a long-time acquaintance from the diocese of Arecibo in Puerto Rico, hosted the Mass, visit, and abundant brunch at Camp Casey on the Fourth Sunday of Advent.

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hese visits really allow me to feel the pulse of those entrusted to my pastoral care. They communicate my interest and desire to know their concerns and needs.

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I give thanks to the Almighty God for the successful completion of yet another Christmas pastoral visit to those stationed far from home.

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They open my eyes to the reality of faithful far from home and anxious for contacts with the Archdiocese. I give thanks to Almighty God for the successful completion of yet another Christmas pastoral visit to those stationed far from home. > spring 2013 |

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By BISHOP RICHARD B. HIGGINS

The Odyssey Continues

BISHOP RICHARD B. HIGGINS (CENTER FRONT) WITH THE “PADRES” (90) THAT ATTENDED THE NATIONAL CONFERENCE OF VA CATHOLIC CHAPLAINS IN NOVEMBER.

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s this issue of SALUTE goes to press I hope to be concluding a 6,000 mile road trip through Virginia, the Carolinas, Georgia, Florida, Alabama, Louisiana and Mississippi visiting a variety of military and VA facilities conducting pastoral visits and celebrating sacraments in support of our military and Department of Veterans Affairs chaplains and their communities. What has become an annual event in recent years, this odyssey is a tremendous opportunity to experience the diversity and depth of experience of the dedicated priests who serve in this unique archdiocese.

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FRONT L-R: VA CHAPLAIN HOWARD NELSON AND BISHOP RICHARD B. HIGGINS WITH OUR LADY OF PEACE POST 1947 CWV HONOR GUARD BACK L-R: ROBERT MCCONNELL, THOMAS MORAN, STEVEN BROUGHTON AND VICTOR STANGO.

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n addition to endorsing Catholic priests to serve as chaplains throughout the United States Armed Forces, the Archdiocese for the Military Services USA endorses Catholic priests to serve as chaplains in the 153 Medical Centers administered by the Department of Veterans Affairs. These VA Medical Centers are located throughout the continental United States, Alaska, Hawaii, Guam and Puerto Rico and Catholic patients at these facilities are ministered to by a combination of full-time, part-time, contract and fee-basis chaplains. As many as 240 priests are endorsed by the archdiocese to provide for the religious needs of our veterans. As Vicar for Veterans Affairs I am privileged to support and affirm these unique “padres” in their mission.

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o in November I dashed out to Mundelein Seminary (just north of Chicago) to attend the annual training conference of the National Conference of VA Catholic Chaplains. Attended by 90 of our VA chaplains this conference was designed to provide insight into the spiritual injuries contributing to homelessness.

Contributors to the conference included Dr. Christopher Russo, Father Anthony Ciorra

and Father Martin Smith-Soucier. Among the topics presented were “Homelessness and Social Justice,” “Spiritual Costs and Clinical Interventions” and “Spiritual Injuries and the Path to Homelessness.” Many of our priests commented on the timeliness of the topic as homelessness among veterans has been identified as a focus item by senior leadership in the Department of Veterans Affairs.

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mmediately following the Thanksgiving holiday I headed for central and south Texas to visit our priest-chaplains serving at the VA Medical Centers in Dallas, Houston, San Antonio, Kerrville and Temple. Returning briefly to DC to catch up on the accumulated mail I flew to Southern California to visit the chaplains at Medical Centers in La Jolla (San Diego), Long Beach, West Los Angeles and Las Vegas, Nevada.

I was fortunate to arrive in Las Vegas in time to participate in the annual volunteer recognition luncheon in the brand-new North Las Vegas Medical Center. The center is served by over 700 dedicated volunteers among whom are members of Our Lady of Peace Post 1947 of the Catholic War Veterans of America, four of whom provided the honor guard for the recognition luncheon. (continued on page 11) spring 2013 |

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A RCHDIOCESE QUAERITE

FOR THE

M ILITARY S ERVICES , USA

O f f i c e o f t h e Ar c h b ish op

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E GNU M DEI

Timothy P. Broglio by the Grace of God and the Favor of the Apostolic See Archbishop for the Military Services, USA DECREE To the Clergy and Faithful of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA: It is my pleasure to promulgate Forming Disciples for the New Evangelization, the Archdiocesan Religion Curriculum Guide, for use in the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA. The purpose of this guide is to provide a standard instrument for ensuring that the faith is taught in a complete, systematic and consistent way in the Catholic faith communities in the Archdiocese.

I am most grateful to the Archdiocese of Washington, Secretariat for Education, for granting permission to the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA to adopt the curriculum guide by adapting it to military language and culture.

The standards and indicators clearly state what participants in every Catholic faith community religious education program should know, understand and do at each grade level (Pre-K through 8).

While this tool was written with children in mind, it also has implications for young adults and youth in the Archdiocese. It provides a common language and agreed upon standards for sharing the faith.

The Office of Faith Formation will provide orientation and training to Clergy and lay leaders to achieve full implementation. An assessment will accompany the curriculum to facilitate the ongoing implementation and accountability of the guide.

This guide becomes effective on August 6, 2013, the Feast of the Transfiguration of the Lord.

The alteration and/or interpretation of this Guide is the sole responsibility of the Archbishop.

It is my hope that this guide will assist all involved in faith formation to achieve Jesus’ charge to “go therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you.

And behold, I am with you always, until the end of the age.” (Mt. 28:19-20) Given this twenty-fifth day of January, the Feast of the Conversion of Saint Paul, two thousand thirteen in the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA.

(Most Reverend) Timothy P. Broglio, J.C.D. Archbishop for the Military Services

Deacon Michael Yakir Chancellor PO B o x 4 4 6 9

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Wa sh in g t o n , D . C . 2 0 0 1 7 - 0 4 6 9

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The Odyssey Continues

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NORTH LAS VEGAS MEDICAL CENTER

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egun in September 2006 the $600 million Medical Center opened 14 August 2012 and will serve the roughly 220,000 veterans in Southern Nevada. The complex consists of a Community Living Center, Mental Health Building, Diagnostics and Treatment Building, Ambulatory Care Building and an Administration and Education Building. At the time of my visit only two floors of the multi-storey complex were operational though officials expect the remainder of the facility to be fully operational by June 2013. A chapel and chaplain offices will be located on the 5th floor adjacent to the Intensive Care Unit and the administration is actively seeking a qualified Catholic chaplain to meet the spiritual needs of Catholic patients who will seek treatment at the state-of-the-art complex.

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eturning from the 1200 mile swing through Southern California and Southern Nevada I was privileged

to concelebrate the 10:30 pm Christmas Eve Mass at the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception with His Excellency Archbishop Carlo Maria Viganó, Apostolic Nuncio to the United States. The televised event drew a few “Higgins, was that you I saw on TV?” comments from the “faithful.”

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January, and it was time to pack the bags and head south out of Laurel and DC to begin the New Year. Throughout my travels I enjoy an abundance of time to reflect on the privilege granted me to serve the men and women of our armed forces and the veterans of this great nation. It was not my plan as I have told so many over the years since I was hoping to retire in Colorado!

But the Holy Spirit “messed” with me and, boy, have I ever enjoyed the ride! May the Risen Christ bless you and yours this Easter season. >

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By BISHOP NEAL BUCKON

MIDDLE EAST VISITS

BISHOP NEAL BUCKON (STANDING CENTER), FATHER LOSBANES, (KNEELING LEFT FRONT) AND NORTH CAROLINA NATIONAL GUARD IN THE SINAI.

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n December, I traveled to the Middle East to visit our Country’s Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines, Coast Guardsmen, and Federal employees working in the region. First stop on the itinerary was the capital city of Muscat in the Sultanate of Oman. Mr. Ken Mueller and his wife, Nancy, met me at the airport. Ken, Nancy, and I grew up in Gesu Parish in Cleveland, Ohio. Ken is currently the general manager for the Dolphin Village in Muscat. He arranged for my visit to the U.S. Embassy in the Sultanate of Oman where Ambassador Greta C. Holtz offered me a warm and gracious welcome.We were also honored to have Colonel Paul H. Ross (U.S. Army), the Defense Attaché, join us during our office call.

The Sultanate of Oman is known for its development, safety, and prosperity. Let us pray that other countries in the region can replicate this success as the struggle for peace and stability in the region continues.

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BISHOP NEAL BUCKON AND CREW ABOARD THE USS DECATUR.

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then journeyed to the island-country of Bahrain. Father Robert Keener, a Navy chaplain, met me at the airport and took me to the Naval Support Activity (NAS Bahrain). The Navy has been operating from this base since 1971! I celebrated three Masses on Christmas Eve. Father Keener and I concelebrated the Christmas Vigil Mass and the Midnight Mass at the NAS Bahrain chapel. In between the Masses, we ventured to Isa Air Base on the other side of the island to celebrate Mass and enjoy dinner with our brave men and women of various services assigned to the base. The Spirit of Christmas was obviously upon all those who attended Mass on Christmas Eve. The service men and women, family members, and Department of Defense contractors sang the traditional songs of Christmas con mucho gusto!

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n Christmas Day Father Keener and I joined Vice Admiral John W. Miller, the Commander for the U.S. Navy’s Fifth Fleet, to visit and celebrate Mass on four ships sailing in the Persian Gulf. The Admiral’s helicopter first lifted us aboard the USS Rushmore where we were greeted by Chaplain Ott. He had the Catholic faithful assembled on deck and within minutes we were singing the opening hymn, “O Come All Ye Faithful.”

The microphone allowed my voice to be heard over the wind, the helicopters, and the engine’s. We then flew to the USS Decatur

where Catholic Lay Leader, LT Kristina Melendez, the Decatur’s Chief Engineer (CHENG), prepared for a Mass to be celebrated in the ship’s training room. Due to our busy schedule the Christmas Day Masses had to be celebrated within 45 minutes. Because of the shortage of active duty chaplains, the 5th Fleet does not have a Catholic priest assigned to it. So, it was opportune for me to celebrate in 45 minutes the Mystery of the Incarnation with grateful hearts and enjoy God’s Christmas blessings of peace, joy, and love with our Catholic countrymen sailing on the high seas. Minutes after the conclusion of Mass we were whisked away by the helicopter and were being piped on board the USS Paul Hamilton. Ensign Grant Barrett is the ship’s Roman Catholic Lay Leader, and he too had prepared a room to celebrate Christmas. The blessings of the day continued to be multiplied and in one hour we departed for our final visit to the USS Green Bay. Chaplain Brant met us on deck and escorted us to the ship’s chapel, which also doubles as the library. The Captain, and many Sailors and Marines gathered around the altar. They had just received news that their cruise had been extended. They were all separated from their families, loved ones, and friends during Christmas and the sacrifice they were making for their Country had just become more painful. That Christmas Day I was re-minded of the necessity of (continued on page 14) spring 2013 |

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MIDDLE EAST VISITS Catholic chaplains being present to our brave heroes who selflessly serve our Country at home and abroad. Our Catholic chaplains provide the sacraments that enable God’s love and grace to purify and uplift the human soul. Our priests in uniform share the privations of our service members and help them sustain their Catholic faith during lengthy and numerous deployments. Our “Padres” provide the encouraging “Word” that keeps the spirit strong in individuals, in families, and in a community.

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he following morning, at 0350 hours on Saint Stephen’s Day, I was on an Egypt Air flight to Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt. Father Hermes (Andy) Losbanes, CH MAJ, USA, met me at the airport. Father is an active– duty chaplain assigned to the Multinational Force and Observers (MFO) in the Sinai, Egypt. He is responsible to the Commander for Religious Support Operations in the MFO; and he is also responsible for providing Catholic specific ministry in the MFO. The MFO is an international peacekeeping force overseeing the terms of the peace treaty between Egypt and Israel. The treaty is the result of the Camp David Accord of 1978.

The MFO assumed its mission in 1982 and has been successfully accomplishing its mission for over 30 years! Father Losbanes arranged for me to visit both the North and the South Camps of the MFO. He and I concelebrated the Masses of the Octave of Christmas for Soldiers of the New Mexico National Guard in the North Camp and for Soldiers of the North Carolina National Guard in the South Camp.

He also arranged for me to speak to the contingents of the 12 countries comprising the MFO at Prayer Breakfasts in both camps. The United States Army provides the single largest contingent in the MFO.

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ather Losbanes arranged for the two of us to visit several Control Points (CP) and Observation Points (OP) currently manned by members of the North Carolina National Guard. Their mission is to observe the boundary between Israel and Egypt and report movement that occurs on land, on the sea, and in the air to insure compliance with the peace treaty. We flew by helicopter over the Gulf of Aqaba to one OP on the island of Tehran. This island is uninhabited, except for the OP, and actually belongs to Saudi Arabia.

From this vantage point the Guardsmen can identify all vessels in the shipping lanes, to include the yachts taking scuba divers from the resort town of Sharm El Sheik to some of the best coral reefs in the world located in the Red Sea. The morale of the Guardsmen from North Carolina and New Mexico was very high. They are working in solidarity with the servicemen and women of other contingents to maintain a peace that was negotiated in 1978. This spirit of solidarity amongst 12 developed and free nations is one shining light in a region that is currently marked by unrest, revolution, and civil war.

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he Holy Father, Pope Benedict XVI, chose “Blessed are the peacemakers” as the theme for the 46th Day of World Peace on January 1st, 2013. He said in his homily, “This beatitude tells us that peace is both a messianic gift and the fruit of human effort.” We are blessed to have so many good men and women volunteer to serve their country overseas. They are patriotic and they are spiritual. Our young Americans endeavor to make the world a better place. They are on the ground, in the air, and sailing the seas for the cause of peace each and every day. >

By BISHOP F. RICHARD SPENCER

FOOT WEAR:

And What are You Wearing?

BISHOP F. RICHARD SPENCER WITH THE KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS 4TH DEGREE EXEMPLIFICATION

n the movie FORREST GUMP, Tom Hanks’ character, Forrest, made a now familiar quote: Momma always says there’s an awful lot

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you could tell about a person by their shoes. Where they’re going.

Where they’ve been.

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ince the Christmas edition of SALUTE, I have been talking with deployed service members and Confirmandi (teenagers) about their footwear. Throughout both Europe and Asia, it has been both fun and insightful to pause, joke, and talk about our shoes. A simple look down draws us into further reflection as the Season of Lent now leads us toward Easter.

My footsteps had me traveling in many places this past holiday season. I met with a group of Sailors in Japan considering dedicating their lives to God and country as Catholic priests. Later, I was back in military uniform with our troops in parts of Turkey, Afghanistan and Kosovo, where they serve in remote locations

without any Catholic clergy. I was also able to attend wonderful Christmas seasonal socials with our Knights of Columbus (K of C) and Military Council of Catholic Women (MCCW). In all of these settings I invited those listeners to look down and gaze at their footwear. The Sailors aboard the USS George Washington were wearing nicely brushed bright black shiny boots. Troops on this remote mountaintop of Turkey (over 7,230 feet above sea level and with over nine feet of snow) were wearing winter boots with metal cleats to assist their need for traction on the ice and compacted snow. In Afghanistan and Kosovo the troops were wearing desert tan boots. The teenagers were mostly wearing (continued on page 27) spring 2013 |

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HEROES AMONG US ——–––— By FATHER KERRY ABBOTT, OFM CONV. —––––––—

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round the beginning of Advent I wrote to our wonderful priest-chaplains “in the trenches” about some exciting developments in the AMS Office of Vocations, and several resources available to them to assist the discernment journeys of the men and women entrusted to their care. As often happens I received numerous emails in response, but one in particular has remained on my mind since then and is in this season of Lent as we anticipate Holy Week and Easter, particularly poignant.

I would like to share the “gist” of that email and extend an invitation to you to reflect upon it and the long legacy of faith, hope and sacrifice it represents.

FATHER KERRY ABBOTT, OFM, CONV.

RIGHT: FATHER MICHAEL J. TRAVAGLIONE, OFM CONV., USA LEFT: FATHER BENTON GARRETT, USN

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he active duty priest-chaplain who wrote to me is but 3 years younger than me, and he wrote about his gratitude to the younger men among us who are responding to God’s gentle, persistent voice calling them to serve His people and our nation as priests and Catholic military chaplains, and for the support they receive from us. You will be able to read about some of our newest co-sponsored seminarians in the pages that follow this article.

This priest-chaplain wondered “aloud” about our disposition toward the older priests on active duty, in retired-recall status, installation contractor and “GS” positions, Reserve, National Guard and with the Veterans Administration. With all that I have written about the inspiring responses of younger men discerning priestly vocations, the AMS Co-Sponsored Seminarian Program and women discerning religious life, he asked if we give due consideration to those who have and still care for our AMS family, especially those priest-chaplains who continue to serve well beyond the typical age of retirement? A very good and helpful question, I thought.

As the AMS Director of Vocations I must admit that my focus has been “strategic” if you will, on assisting those who will hopefully meet the longer-term sacramental needs of our AMS flock in the future. For example, one of the men that began seminary this past Fall in the Co-Sponsored Seminarian Program will not be eligible to serve as an activeduty priest chaplain until 2021.

Having been in the military priest-chaplain “trenches” for years myself and now “retired”, I decided to do some research with our AMS Chancellor, Deacon Mike Yakir, to determine who our most senior active duty priest-chaplain in uniform is. In fact, I found out that like me, he is a Conventual Franciscan Friar (imagine that) and is in the photograph on the cover of this issue of Salute.

Father CH (LTCOL) Michael J. Travaglione, OFM Conv. is 74 years old and is seen in this photograph from December 2012 during his most recent deployment as an Army priest-chaplain to Afghanistan. He is joined by his fellow Catholic chaplains in theater, the youngest of whom is Father CH (LT) Benton L. Garrett (USN) who at 36 is about half the age of Father Michael!

I believe that my good brother priest who inspired this article, as well as Fathers Travaglione and Garrett, and the incredible legacy of servant priests (including several Medal of Honor recipients) that have through the history of our country in quiet moments or ‘midst the din of combat, faithfully celebrated the sacraments for those entrusted to their care are real heroes for us to look to, be inspired by, and join!

On page 8 of this issue of Salute, you will find a photograph of some of our Veterans Administration priest-chaplains gathered with AMS Auxiliary Bishop Richard B. Higgins. Many of these good priests are former military priest-chaplains, and they are caring still for our wounded warriors. While I know for a fact that the younger men who are stepping forward in increasing numbers to follow in the footsteps of Father Travaglione et al. deserve our prayers, gratitude and support for what they will, by the grace of God, be able to provide in the future, I believe we owe an enormous debt of gratitude to not only our heroes of the past, but those heroes of the present…our serving priest-chaplains, young and “older”!

In the first paragraph of this article I mentioned an invitation. I extend that invitation to you now; when you encounter that serving priest-chaplain on your ship, installation, or Veterans Administration facility, let that hero know how grateful you are for the fact that he said yes to the Lord, yes to His Church and yes for you and me! > spring 2013 |

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The Blessings Justin M. Charlebois DIOCESE: Albany, New York RANK / BRANCH OF SERVICE: Air Force

Chaplain Candidate HIGH SCHOOL ATTENDED:

Niskayuna High School, Niskayuna, New York COLLEGE ATTENDED: State University of New York (S.U.N.Y) at Oswego (B.A.), Columbia University (M.A.), Lancaster University (Ph.D.) HOBBIES: Reading, travel, watching movies, English

horseback riding, cross-country skiing and running.

WHEN WAS THE FIRST TIME YOU THOUGHT YOU MIGHT HAVE A VOCATION TO THE PRIESTHOOD? I have felt a calling to the priesthood since I was in high school and it has gradually strengthened over the years.

WHO OR WHAT EVENTS INFLUENCED OR INSPIRED YOU IN YOUR DISCERNMENT JOURNEY? The most significant influence on my vocation journey has been my strong faith while living in a predominately atheist culture. Prior to moving to Japan, there were many priests in my life who also indirectly influenced my vocation.

WHAT WOULD PEOPLE BE SURPRISED TO KNOW ABOUT YOU? I have taught English and communication-related classes in Japan for the past ten years.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SCRIPTURE PASSAGE, WHY? MATTHEW 7:1-5 “Judge not, that you be not judged. For with the judgment you pronounce you will be judged, and the measure you give will be the measure you get. Why do you see the speck that is in your brother’s eye, but do not notice the log that is in your own eye? Or how can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,’ when there is the log in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the log out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take the speck out of your brother’s eye.”

These are my favorite verses because they remind me of Jesus Christ’s compassionate and forgiving nature. To me, these passages capture a central tenet of our Catholic faith and it reminds me to practice the Gospel’s message of tolerance and forgiveness.

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Continue HOW DID YOU COME TO KNOW JESUS CHRIST PERSONALLY? I have always felt that Jesus Christ has guided me through significant life decisions and helped me face various challenges. My relationship with Him has deepened through regular Mass attendance, regular reception of the sacrament of penance and reconciliation, and a daily prayer regime. I also feel that Christ speaks to me when I read the saints’ lives.

WHAT WERE SOME OF THE SPIRITUAL EVENTS OR ACTIVITIES THAT HELPED YOU DEVELOP AND SHARE YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH CHRIST AND HIS CHURCH? I have always been actively involved in my local parish. I was an altar server, lector, extraordinary minister of Holy Communion, and faith formation teacher.

HAVE ANY SAINTS OR CHURCH LEADERS PARTICULARLY INSPIRED YOUR DISCERNMENT JOURNEY? The inspirations for my journey have been Blessed Pope John Paul II, Venerable Archbishop Fulton Sheen, Blessed Teresa of Calcutta, and Timothy Cardinal Dolan.

WHAT WAS YOUR PROFESSIONAL AND/OR ACADEMIC AND/OR MILITARY BACKGROUND BEFORE APPLYING TO BE A SEMINARIAN APPLICANT? I was a university faculty member in Japan. I have no prior military experience.

WHAT WAS THE NEXT TO LAST BOOK YOU READ, AND WHAT ARE YOU CURRENTLY READING? I recently read “The Grunt Padre” by Father Daniel Mode and “Seek First the Kingdom” by Cardinal Wuerl. I am currently reading “Unbroken” by Laura Hillenbrand.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SPIRITUAL BOOK? “Priests for the Third Millennium” by Cardinal Dolan and books by Benedict Groeschel (C.F.R.), James Martin (S.J.), and Richard Rohr (O.F.M.).

WHO ARE YOUR HEROES OR PEOPLE YOU SIGNIFICANTLY ADMIRE? My mother and sister are my heroes. My mother made incredible sacrifices for her children and has remained a devout Catholic. In addition to her kindness and compassion, my sister has always lived her faith through ‘works’ such as community service (James 2:17).

HOW WOULD YOU CHARACTERIZE YOUR PRAYER LIFE? WHAT COMPRISES YOUR DAILY PRAYER? DO YOU PARTICIPATE IN THE LITURGICAL LIFE OF THE CHURCH? WHEN, WHERE, HOW? Daily prayer includes Holy Scripture reflection (lectio divina), praying the rosary, and contemplative prayer. Daily Mass is unavailable where I live, but I attend and participate in the weekend liturgy. Spiritual reading is another indispensable component of my prayer life. spring 2013 |

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The Blessings Jonathan Blake Norton DIOCESE: Fort Wayne, Indiana RANK / BRANCH OF SERVICE: None at this time HIGH SCHOOL ATTENDED: Bishop Luers H.S., Fort Wayne, Indiana COLLEGE ATTENDED: Indiana Tech, Fort Wayne, Indiana; Indiana University/Purdue University of Fort Wayne, Fort Wayne, Indiana; Ivy Tech Community College, Fort Wayne, Indiana; Immaculate Heart of Mary Seminary Winona, Minnesota HOBBIES: Cycling, football, and hiking. In high school I played football and wrestled.

WHEN WAS THE FIRST TIME YOU THOUGHT YOU MIGHT HAVE A VOCATION TO THE PRIESTHOOD? The first time I thought about a vocation to the priesthood was shortly after my First Communion and while I was an altar server.

WHO OR WHAT EVENTS INFLUENCED OR INSPIRED YOU IN YOUR DISCERNMENT JOURNEY? My First Communion was the event that began my discernment. Shortly afterwards I became an altar server at the chapel on the Marine base in Albany, Georgia. Our chaplain, Father James O’Kielty was a strong influence then and even today. I remember his great example of the priesthood. Several priests in Fort Wayne and the campus ministry in high school continued to encourage my discernment. After high school, I entered the working world and became lukewarm in my faith. While reading, “Rediscovering Catholicism” by Matthew Kelly my faith was reignited. I began spending time everyday in adoration of Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament. It was through this time in prayer that I again heard a calling to enter the Seminary. My time in priestly formation has continued to further my discernment.

WHAT WOULD PEOPLE BE SURPRISED TO KNOW ABOUT YOU? I received Holy Communion from Pope Benedict XVI at the closing Mass of World Youth Day in Madrid, Spain.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SCRIPTURE PASSAGE, WHY? Luke 3:21-22 “Now when all the people were baptized, and when Jesus also had been baptized and was praying, the heaven was opened, and the Holy Spirit descended upon him in bodily form, as a dove, and a voice came from heaven, “Thou art my beloved Son; with thee I am well pleased.”

It is through the sacrament of Baptism that we are made children of God. I receive comfort and confidence from knowing that I am a beloved son of God.

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Continue HOW DID YOU COME TO KNOW JESUS CHRIST PERSONALLY? Through reading commentaries on the Eucharist during Eucharistic Adoration.

WHAT WERE SOME OF THE SPIRITUAL EVENTS OR ACTIVITIES THAT HELPED YOU DEVELOP AND SHARE YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH CHRIST AND HIS CHURCH? My involvement in campus ministry during high school helped to encourage my faith. After recommitting myself to a life of prayer, I became a Core Leader for Life Teen at my parish. I enjoyed sharing Christ with the teens. Also, I listened to programs on Catholic radio which helped me to learn more about God and His Church.

This deepened my faith and caused me to fall in love with Christ’s Church.

HAVE ANY SAINTS OR CHURCH LEADERS PARTICULARLY INSPIRED YOUR DISCERNMENT JOURNEY? I have always had a strong relationship with our Blessed Mother. I have always known her presence in my life. Blessed John Paul II and Pope Benedict have inspired my discernment. Their holiness created a desire within me to know and love the Lord as they do. St. John Marie Vianney’s biography was a great influence on me and continues to influence some of my pastoral views. Other saints that have inspired me are St. Philomena, St. Bernadette, St. Martin of Tours and the Servant of God, Father Vincent Capodanno.

WHAT WAS YOUR PROFESSIONAL AND/OR ACADEMIC AND/OR MILITARY BACKGROUND BEFORE APPLYING TO BE A SEMINARIAN APPLICANT? I worked as a manager for 8 years at Mike’s Express Carwash in Fort Wayne. During this time, I took college courses part-time while taking a semester off every so often.

WHAT WAS THE NEXT TO LAST BOOK YOU READ, AND WHAT ARE YOU CURRENTLY READING? The next to last book I read was “The Life of St. Martin of Tours” and I am currently reading, “Grunt Padre.”

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SPIRITUAL BOOK? “Cure D’Ars” by Trochu.

WHO ARE YOUR HEROES OR PEOPLE YOU SIGNIFICANTLY ADMIRE? My grandparents are devout Catholics who are always able to befriend anyone, anywhere they go. They have always been generous in their love for me. They are extraordinary people. My family also inspires me. I am grateful for the love and support they have shown me throughout my life.

HOW WOULD YOU CHARACTERIZE YOUR PRAYER LIFE? WHAT COMPRISES YOUR DAILY PRAYER? DO YOU PARTICIPATE IN THE LITURGICAL LIFE OF THE CHURCH? WHEN, WHERE, HOW? I have a prayer life common to most seminarians: daily Mass, Holy Hour, Liturgy of the Hours, and spiritual reading. I particularly enjoy my time in prayer in silence before the Blessed Sacrament or a crucifix. I enjoy the spiritual exercises taught by St. Ignatius; the Examen Prayer and Discernment of Spirits have been supportive of my spiritual life. spring 2013 |

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The Blessings Samuel F. Schneider DIOCESE: Superior, Wisconsin RANK / BRANCH OF SERVICE: Navy Chaplain Candidate HIGH SCHOOL ATTENDED: Rhinelander High School, Rhinelander, Wisconsin COLLEGE ATTENDED: U.S. Naval Academy, University of St. Thomas, St. John Vianney Seminary.

HOBBIES: Woodworking, building, sailing and sports. I have played football and wrestled.

WHEN WAS THE FIRST TIME YOU THOUGHT YOU MIGHT HAVE A VOCATION TO THE PRIESTHOOD? I first thought of the priesthood on a Spring break (FOCUS) mission trip to Bronx, New York in 2011. Before that I rejected every thought of the priesthood or religious life.

WHO OR WHAT EVENTS INFLUENCED OR INSPIRED YOU IN YOUR DISCERNMENT JOURNEY? I read “Seven Storey Mountain” by Thomas Merton the summer of 2010. That allowed me to see the value and beauty of religious life. Then “Jesus in the Eucharist” on a 2011 Spring break mission trip gave me a total desire to do His will and serve God and His church.

WHAT WOULD PEOPLE BE SURPRISED TO KNOW ABOUT YOU? I spent two years at the U.S. Naval Academy.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SCRIPTURE PASSAGE, WHY? LUKE 9:23-26 And he said to all, “If any man would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me. For whoever would save his life will lose it; and whoever loses his life for my sake, he will save it. For what does it profit a man if he gains the whole world and loses or forfeits himself? For whoever is ashamed of me and of my words, of him will the Son of man be ashamed when he comes in his glory and the glory of the Father and of the holy angels.”

This is a passage I have continually returned to reflect on while at seminary. It gives me hope to continue pursuing Christ and my cross, while rejecting my old desire to gain the world.

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Continue HOW DID YOU COME TO KNOW JESUS CHRIST PERSONALLY? Jesus has given me two very intense experiences of His presence in the Eucharist. First, while receiving Him during daily Mass in 2009 and understanding His true presence. Second, on the mission trip during adoration, I experienced God’s true existence in my life. Lastly, through a consistent schedule of daily prayer at the seminary I have come to know Jesus better.

WHAT WERE SOME OF THE SPIRITUAL EVENTS OR ACTIVITIES THAT HELPED YOU DEVELOP AND SHARE YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH CHRIST AND HIS CHURCH? The event that made me have total trust in the Catholic Church is my acceptance of the belief in the Marian apparitions. Specifically, reading about all of the clues pointing towards the truth in apparitions and thus making the leap of faith forced by my logical understanding.

HAVE ANY SAINTS OR CHURCH LEADERS PARTICULARLY INSPIRED YOUR DISCERNMENT JOURNEY? Thomas Merton through his autobiography “Seven Storey Mountain.” St. Damien of Molokai is someone I have prayed to a lot. Reading about Servant of God, Father Vincent Capodanno has given me a greater desire to serve as a military chaplain.

WHAT WAS YOUR PROFESSIONAL AND/OR ACADEMIC AND/OR MILITARY BACKGROUND BEFORE APPLYING TO BE A SEMINARIAN APPLICANT? I spent two years as a midshipman at the U.S. Naval Academy.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SPIRITUAL BOOK? My favorite is the “Imitation of Christ”.

WHO ARE YOUR HEROES OR PEOPLE YOU SIGNIFICANTLY ADMIRE? I really admire Servant of God, Father Vincent Capodanno, St. Ignatius of Loyola, St. Damien of Molokai, Servant of God, Father Emil Kapaun and Theodore Roosevelt.

HOW WOULD YOU CHARACTERIZE YOUR PRAYER LIFE? WHAT COMPRISES YOUR DAILY PRAYER? DO YOU PARTICIPATE IN THE LITURGICAL LIFE OF THE CHURCH? WHEN, WHERE, HOW? I would say that my prayer life is opening me up to a deeper relationship with Christ. At seminary I always have a holy hour of prayer (normally adoration), daily Mass, morning and evening prayer. When I am away, I keep up the same schedule to the best of my ability. I normally go to Confession twice a month as well as spiritual direction.

“I first thought of the priesthood on a Spring break (FOCUS) mission trip to Bronx, New York in 2011.” spring 2013 |

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The Blessings Christopher J. Yakkel DIOCESE: Archdiocese for the Military Services RANK / BRANCH OF SERVICE: TBD HIGH SCHOOL ATTENDED: Lakenheath High School 2003-2005, RAF Lakenheath, England; Damien Memorial High School 2005-2007, Honolulu, Hawaii COLLEGE ATTENDED: Miami University, 2007-2011, Oxford, Ohio HOBBIES: Running, watching and playing sports, hiking, travelling, learning more about the Catholic faith and the lives of the saints, history, putting together videos/ slide-shows.

WHEN WAS THE FIRST TIME YOU THOUGHT YOU MIGHT HAVE A VOCATION TO THE PRIESTHOOD? The first time I thought I might have a vocation to the priesthood was the summer after my freshman year of college.

WHO OR WHAT EVENTS INFLUENCED OR INSPIRED YOU IN YOUR DISCERNMENT JOURNEY? My family definitely influenced my discernment journey. I have been blessed to grow up in a family devout in their faith and committed to serving others. My parents, sister, and brother have inspired me in different ways. I have several friends and spiritual mentors whose enthusiastic faith has encouraged me to seek to grow in my own faith. Several events in my discernment journey stand out: 1)World Youth Day in Sydney, Australia in 2008; 2)An AMS discernment retreat I attended; 3)All the activities and groups I was involved in via the Catholic Campus Ministry throughout college.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SCRIPTURE PASSAGE, WHY? This answer depends on the stage of life I am in. A passage that I have really enjoyed, is PHILIPPIANS 1:12-26. It summarizes a lot of my attitude toward life. In particular verse 21: “For to me life is Christ, and death is gain.”

Galatians 2:20 says, “I have been crucified with Christ, it is no longer I who live but Christ who lives in me and the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.”

I have come to realize my life is a gift from God which is best enjoyed by doing God’s will, which means serving and glorifying Him in all I do. There is a purpose for me being here right now; that is the mission of evangelization in my day-to-day living. Representing Christ to all I meet and spreading His love in whatever I do. “My eager expectation and hope is that I shall not be put to shame in any way, but that with all boldness, now as always, Christ will be magnified in my body, whether by life or by death.” This passage teaches me to see every day as a gift and to enjoy that gift to the fullest. I can best do this by serving God and so each day I find ways to continue to serve Him and grow closer to Him. HOW DID YOU COME TO KNOW JESUS CHRIST PERSONALLY? It is a gradual process.

I’m not one of those people who had a dramatic life-changing experience that led me to Jesus.

Rather, coming to know Jesus personally is a daily thing for me. It all started for me at my Baptism.

I’ve had numerous experiences which have deepened my personal relationship with Jesus, but these have happened over many years of my life. Each day I am coming to know Jesus Christ more intimately through prayer, sacraments, fellowship, and events of life.

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Continue WHAT WERE SOME OF THE SPIRITUAL EVENTS OR ACTIVITIES THAT HELPED YOU DEVELOP AND SHARE YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH CHRIST AND HIS CHURCH? There are a lot of spiritual events and activities that have helped me grow in my relationship with Jesus and His Church, probably more than I can even count, but I will list a few. In high school I went on an Encounter Retreat which helped me to see how blessed I have been growing up. Throughout college, I was very involved in my school’s Catholic campus ministry. I went on numerous retreats, helped lead several retreats, participated in and led prayer groups, attended bible studies, went on mission trips and participated in service opportunities. Daily Mass had a huge influence on my life. One event that had a tremendous impact on my relationship with the Church was World Youth Day (WYD) in 2008. The trip to Sydney transformed my view of the Church. Up until WYD I had always heard about our universal church, but it was something I never completely understood. When I went to WYD I realized how universal our Church really is and how incredible a role it has in bringing people to Christ. The Eucharist especially blew my mind. After WYD I had a much deeper desire to seek our Lord in the Eucharist. In fact, if I were to choose one activity that shaped my relationship with Christ and His Church the most, it would be Eucharistic Adoration. Never has something had such a powerful effect on my life. All of these along with my experience serving with NET Ministries have led me into a much deeper relationship with Christ. The common denominator among these is the fact that all have led me to seek a deeper prayer life.

WHAT WAS YOUR PROFESSIONAL AND/OR ACADEMIC AND/OR MILITARY BACKGROUND BEFORE APPLYING TO BE A SEMINARIAN APPLICANT? I grew up as a military child. My dad was in the Air Force and just retired recently. So growing up, I moved to new schools about every two years. Upon graduating high school, I went to Miami University in Oxford, Ohio where I earned a Bachelor of Science in Health and Sport Studies. After completing my undergraduate work I started working as a Catholic missionary with NET Ministries before applying to be a seminarian.

WHO ARE YOUR HEROES OR PEOPLE YOU SIGNIFICANTLY ADMIRE? My parents are without a doubt my greatest heroes. They have sacrificed a lot over the years to support my siblings and me in all we do and have always been there for us no matter what. I significantly admire those who daily put their lives on the line to serve others. I also have a tremendous respect for their families. Finally, missionaries constantly inspire me in their willingness to spread the Gospel no matter what obstacles they may face.

HOW WOULD YOU CHARACTERIZE YOUR PRAYER LIFE? WHAT COMPRISES YOUR DAILY PRAYER? DO YOU PARTICIPATE IN THE LITURGICAL LIFE OF THE CHURCH? WHEN, WHERE, HOW? My prayer life continues to grow and mature over time. When I was younger, prayer meant an Our Father, Hail Mary, and Glory Be followed by bedtime. Now that I understand what these prayers mean, my prayer has become much more personal and consistent.

I begin prayer by calling upon the Holy Spirit. Then I usually read a passage from scripture. After reading scripture, I meditate on what the Lord may be trying to tell me in that passage. This is usually followed by coming up with some kind of resolution. I usually close my prayer time with prayers of thanksgiving and petition. I have come to learn more about prayers of saints and devotions that I incorporate into my prayer life, for example novenas and the Chaplet of Divine Mercy. I have been growing in my devotion to Mary which has led me to praying the rosary a lot more often. Again, my prayer life is something that keeps growing and changing. I participate in daily Mass every chance I can. I really love Eucharistic Adoration and so I go to Adoration chapels whenever they are available and I am able.

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By CHANCELLOR DEACON MICHAEL YAKIR

Serving Those Who Serve

LEFT: 1ST LT. BEN MACKIN & HIS BRIDE EMILY, TAYLOR HENRY’S SON-IN-LAW & DAUGHTER MIDDLE: 1ST LT. THOMAS REDMOND, JO ANN REDMOND’S SON. RIGHT: SERGEANT PATRICK YAKIR, DEACON MICHAEL YAKIR’S SON.

ork has become more personal for three members of the AMS staff ministering to the Catholic military members and their families. Public Relations Director Taylor Henry,Director of Administration Jo Ann Redmond, and Chancellor Deacon Mike Yakir all have family members on active-duty, two of whom are deployed to Afghanistan.

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Lt. Ben Mackin, Taylor’s new son-inlaw, was on his way to Afghanistan with his Mississippi National Guard unit to serve as a Public Relations officer when he received a call to return home to his new wife. Ben and Emily were married last November. Emily has had Pineoblastoma cancer since 2009 and it looked like things were turning around. While in transit to Afghanistan Ben received a call that Emily’s health had taken a turn for the worse and that he should return home immediately.

Her tumor was pressing against the cerebellum and brain stem and cancer cells were found in her spinal fluid. After Ben’s return Emily underwent an advanced form of chemotherapy, and a subsequent MRI showed significant improvement in her condition. Ben remains at her side thankful that his command has given him permission to remain with his wife.

1st Lt. Thomas Redmond graduated from the Virginia Military Institute in the spring of 2011. After being commissioned a 2nd Lt in the Army he received training as an Artillery Officer. Lt. Redmond is on his first

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deployment and is assigned to a Stryker Brigade Combat Team (SBCT) in Afghanistan.

Sgt. Patrick Yakir has been in the Army for five and a half years. His assignments include Grafenwoehr, Germany, Afghanistan and Fort Carson in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Sgt. Yakir is an MP dog handler and he has an explosives dog by the name of Karlo.

During the recent presidential campaign he and Karlo spent time on both Mitt Romney’s and President Obama’s security team. Pat, with Karlo, recently arrived in Afghanistan for his second deployment. Rumor has it that Lt. Redmond and Sgt. Yakir are assigned to the same Forward Operating Base (FOB).

As you can see, ministry to military families is very personal to the AMS staff. We are you. We understand the difficulties of military life. It is more than a textbook exercise; it is real life. Many of us have been in the military ourselves, have been raised in a military family and/or now have children proudly serving their country. Please join us in praying for the safety and health of all the people we serve. >

FOOT WEAR: And What are You Wearing?

(continued from page 15)

MCCW ANNUAL EUROPEAN REGIONAL REGIONAL CONFERENCE

tennis shoes. The adults at the K of C and the MCCW socials wore nice leather shoes. I asked each group this reflective question: What were the Disciples wearing on their feet that first Easter morning as they were running to view the alleged empty tomb as told in the Gospel of John, chapter 20:1–9? Why was one disciple able to outrun the other disciple? My answer was it was due to the footwear that he was wearing…and that was the footwear of faith, as if on eagle’s wings.

During these past months traveling throughout Asia and Europe, I continued to reflect with our flock about the need for

evangelization. This Year of Faith, which our Holy Father has gifted us, allows us to pause and consider where our feet have been and where our feet are going. We need to live our precious Faith as well as take it out into the market places where we live and work. Vocations are central to enable the living of our Faith. We must continually reach out to the men and women in uniform and our Chapel communities encouraging them to consider dedicating their talents and gifts to spread the “Good News of Jesus Christ” today and every day of our lives.

May our “footwear of faith” be solid, sturdy and filled with joy as we live the Easter experience. >

Save the Dates 19th Annual Memorial Mass 19 May 2013 Annual Memorial Mass for Father Capodanno 3 Sept 2013 spring 2013 |

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By FATHER LUIS HERNANDEZ

When One Door Closes...

FATHER LUIS HERNANDEZ CELEBRATING MASS.

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ears ago, in a religious education class, I heard the story of an Italian boy who loved the sound of the violin. He also loved to sing. But whenever he intoned a song, it came out so badly that all of his friends laughed at him. His name was Antonio.

He possessed the ability to whittle all sorts of things with a pocketknife that he always carried with him. One day Antonio learned that Nicolo Amati, the best violin maker in all of Italy, lived in his town. Determined to meet him, the boy started to carve a small violin and finished it with great detail.

Then he walked to the house of Amati and handed him the work of his hands. “Sir”–he said–“I love music, but cannot sing.

I wish with all my heart I could learn to make violins.” Impressed by the gift, the master took Antonio in as an apprentice and taught him how to make violins of unsurpassed finesse. Eventually, Antonio Stradivari became a brand name. To this day, his violins produce the most beautiful music ever heard.

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bviously God’s grace empowers us to do in an alternative way what we cannot do in a conventional way.

I can attest to this truth. Due to some personal limitations, I could not enlist and serve as an active duty military chaplain.

Thankfully, I found a service alternative in the Priest Contractors. And I invite you to consider prayerfully if this may also be an alternative for you. If you have average physical fitness and the will to serve the men and women in uniform, as well as the civilians associated to their mission, this ministry is definitely for you. You can make a difference by performing your priestly ministry at a military base, a hospital or other military facility.

I’ve been a contract priest since September of last year, when I arrived at the Navy Support Facility on Diego Garcia, a small island in the Indian Ocean. I cannot tell you enough about how enriching and fulfilling this experience has been. I celebrate the sacraments and preach the Word in the tradition of our two thousand year old Catholic faith, while maintaining cordial and collaborative relationships with chaplains of other Christian and religious affiliations. This has helped me appreciate the depth and the complexity of the religious experience. The community I serve is rather fluid and mobile.

They tell me often how much they appreciate the sense of spiritual stability that the sacraments, especially the Eucharist, bring into their lives.

There is a basic five step track to become a contract priest: 1) Obtain the permission from your bishop or religious superior; 2) Request a DUNS number; 3) Register as a contractor with SAM (U.S. federal government’s System for Award Management); 4) Select the military installation you are interested in; and 5) Submit documents for the AMS (Archdiocese for the Military Services) endorsement.

This is not as complex as it seems. The Contract Chaplain Coordinator will assist you throughout this process.

Serving Christ in our brothers and sisters is a task far more satisfying than making the finest of violins. If you or a priest you know may be interested in this ministry, please contact Father John Kaul at jkaul@milarch.org >

“He is not here. He has risen just as He said.”

—MATTHEW 28:6

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By MONSIGNOR FRANK PUGLIESE

WELCOME TO PILSEN The home of Father Emil Kapaun

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he only access to Pilsen, Kansas, located in northern Marion County, is by county road. As you drive into Pilsen, there is a welcome sign that reads, “Welcome to Pilsen, the home of Father Emil Kapaun.” St. John Nepomucene Catholic Church, where Father Kapaun was baptized and later served as a parish priest, is the heart of the town. In November, I had the privilege of representing the Archdiocese for the Military Services at the annual memorial Mass for Father Kapaun, Servant of God. BRONZE STATUE DEDICATED TO FATHER EMIL KAPAUN HELPING A FELLOW SOLDIER.

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MONSIGNOR FRANK PUGLIESE CELEBRATING THE ANNUAL MEMORIAL MASS AT ST. JOHN NEPOMUCENE CHURCH IN PILSEN, KANSAS.

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hile serving as assistant pastor of St. John Nepomucene Church, Bishop Winkleman assigned Father Kapaun additional duty as auxiliary chaplain at the Army air base in Herington, Kansas, about 16 miles north of Pilsen. In July, 1944, the bishop allowed him to enter the U.S. Army chaplaincy, where he served until 1946.

Father Kapaun left the Army Chaplaincy and used his GI bill to obtain a Master’s Degree in Education from the Catholic University of America in Washington, DC. During his course of studies, he requested the bishop’s permission to return to military duty as a chaplain. The bishop, instead, assigned him as pastor of a largely Bohemian parish in the diocese. After six months as pastor, Father Kapaun again asked for permission to follow what he believed was God’s call in his life and return to the Army as a chaplain. This time, the bishop granted his request.

Father Kapaun’s ministry during the Korean conflict was difficult – cold winters, mosquito-infested summers, the constant din of battle, the shell-shocked, the refugees, and the wounded and dead. Father Kapaun ministered to all of them bringing hope. For Catholics, he always carried the Blessed Sacrament, his confessional stole, and his Mass kit.

For those who were not Catholic, he brought a deeply Christian spirit of prayer that enabled them to express their love for and confidence in Jesus. He received the Bronze Star for heroism in action on August 2, 1950 for rescuing a wounded soldier despite heavy enemy fire.

In November, 1950, Father Kapaun was captured by the enemy. He escaped, but was recaptured when he returned to care for the

wounded. For his selfless commitment to the wounded, Father Kapaun was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross.

In the prison camp at Pyoktong, he continued to minister to the wounded and to bring hope to all. His quiet determination and strong faith made him an anomaly to his Chinese captors. To the prisoners, he became a hero and he became the most mentioned memory of those who survived.

Father Kapaun died in May, 1951. Army records list his date of death as May 6th from pneumonia. His fellow prisoners insist that he died on May 23rd of malnutrition and starvation.

Regardless of how he died, his exemplary life of sanctity has much to teach us. He used the ordinary skills he had learned on the farm to alleviate the physical pain of his fellow prisoners. He used all the resources of his faith to bring hope to the prisoners in what was otherwise a hopeless existence. He prayed constantly for his captors and assured them that God was present to them and would one day forgive them and deliver them from the evil of Communism.

Father Arthur Tonne, in his book, “The Story of Father Kapaun,” called him, “the counselor, the nurse, the leader, the provider, the defender of his fellow prisoners…”

For more information, refer to the website, www.frkapaun.org. The cause for his canonization is now in Rome at the Vatican.

Meanwhile, the faithful of Wichita, Kansas and the communities from nearby military installations gather at Mass in Pilsen every November to remember Father Emil Kapaun, Servant of God. > spring 2013 |

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By MARK T. MOITOZA, D.MIN.

Faith Turned Upside Down

LIFE TEEN MASS, SIX FLAGS MAGIC MOUNTAIN IN VALENCIA, CA

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or over ten years Catholic teens have been gathering for a full day of roller coaster rides and sacraments sponsored by Life Teen. Faith and fun mixed together for an entire Saturday, this past November, when over 3,000 teenagers gathered at Six Flags Magic Mountain in Valencia, CA. The park was alive with enthusiasm not just for rides like Gold Rusher, Revolution, and Scream but also for the opportunity to gather for Mass and Eucharistic Adoration in the Golden Bear Theater. The paradox between silence and noise filled the sunny California day.

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LEFT: “GOLIATH” … TOWERING 255 FEET ABOVE EARTH, CARS RIDING THIS MASSIVE STEEL SUPERSTRUCTURE HIT SPEEDS OF 85 MPH, MAKING IT ONE OF THE FASTEST AND TALLEST ROLLER COASTERS AROUND. RIGHT: BISHOP BUCKON (CENTER) WITH GROUP ATTENDING LIFE TEEN EVENT.

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t a special gathering for militaryconnected teens and their adult leaders, Bishop Buckon encouraged all to take the Year of Faith seriously.

The youth shared their interests during an interactive ice-breaker led by José Amaya, the Director of Faith Formation, Archdiocese for the Military Services. Each young person was encouraged to reflect upon the ways that military life on the move helps them to both encounter Christ and share the joy of Christ with others in so many different ways. Over 100 youth came from the following U.S. military installations: California: Twentynine Palms, Edwards AFB, MCAS Miramar and MCB Camp Pendleton; Nevada: Nellis AFB and Hawaii: Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam.

Later in the afternoon Bishop Buckon was able to convince Deacon CJ Donarski and Father Kasule, both from Camp Pendleton, to get in line for Batman the Ride. This roller coaster had loops and turns that classified it as one of the maximum thrill rides in the park. The clergy walked out of the ride exit smiling and a little bit wind-blown as they headed over to prepare for the evening Mass.

That evening young people from all

over the West Coast gathered together in a moving experience of prayer. At the conclusion of the liturgy Bishop Buckon, who was the main celebrant, asked the seminarians and those discerning the possibility of entering the seminary to stand. For the next ten minutes the entire park at Six Flags was wondering what the loud standing ovation was all about. Young people were encouraging those discerning God’s will in their life.

Life Teen has been a strong supporter of military-connected youth. A good number of military installations use Life Teen resources to reach middle school and high school youth. Some Catholic parishes near military installations invite youth to join their Life Teen ministries. On the national level Life Teen offers workshops to encourage Catholic youth ministry in military settings. Learn more about Life Teen at www.catholicyouthministry.com and www.lifeteen.com. If you know a youth group interested in an adventure of faith and fun encourage them to attend Life Teen Inspiration at Six Flags Fiesta Texas, August 10, 2013 or Six Flags Magic Mountain, November 2, 2013. It may just turn their faith upside down. > spring 2013 |

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By MARK MOITOZA, D. MIN.

YEAR OF FAITH

Pilgrimage to Lourdes

OUR LADY OF LOURDES CHURCH ENTRANCE

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he Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA encourages the faithful to participate in the 55th International Military Pilgrimage to the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes in France as a particular way to participate in the Year of Faith.

The pilgrimage will offer the opportunity to gather with members of the military around the world to pray for peace.

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There are several pilgrim tour packages to appeal to various interests: 1) Pilgrimage to Lourdes, France: MAY 21-27, 2013 2) Pilgrimage to Lourdes, France and Loyola, Spain: MAY 22-29, 2013 3) Pilgrimage to Lourdes, Paris, and Normandy, France: MAY 22-30, 2013 4) Pilgrimage for Wounded Warriors to Lourdes, France: MAY 21-27, 2013 Details and reservation forms for each pilgrimage may be found on the AMS website, www.milarch.org/lourdespmi The pilgrimages to Lourdes includes candlelight processions, Mass with Archbishop Broglio, Stations of the Cross, Eucharistic Adoration, prayers at the Grotto, and opportunities to bathe in the miraculous waters.

The pilgrimage including Spain offers visits to Loyola, Zaragoza, and Barcelona.

The pilgrimage which includes Paris offers visits to the Normandy Beaches and the American cemetery at Omaha Beach, along with a half-day tour of Paris.

The Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith published a Note with pastoral recommendations for the Year of Faith. It details many possibilities including pilgrimages to Marian shrines, During this Year, it will be helpful to invite the faithful to turn with particular devotion to Mary, model of the Church, who “shines forth to the whole community of the elect as the model of virtues.”[19] Therefore, every initiative that helps the faithful to recognize the special role of Mary in the mystery of salvation, love her and follow her as a model of faith and virtue is to be encouraged. To this end it would be proper to organize pilgrimages, celebrations and gatherings at the major Marian shrines. (1.3) Pray for Peace this May at the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes with members of the military from around the world. º Footnote, [19] Conc. Ecum. Vat. II, Dogmatic Constitution, Lumen gentium, n. 65.

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By MARK T. MOITOZA, D.MIN.

THE YEAR OF FAITH Launched ——— THE AMS APP FOR iPHONE ———

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n early October, opening celebrations for the Year of Faith began in Rome and around the world. This time to rediscover the faith continues until November 24, 2013. In the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, much has happened to encourage the faithful. Archbishop Broglio issued a pastoral letter called Seek Peace. The AMS Office of Evangelization developed webpages with resources for individuals and Catholic faith communities. Those pages include links to church documents, suggestions for pilgrimages, tools for families, and a special section highlighting religious art.

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n a move toward digital evangelization, the new AMS Catholic Faith Deployed app was launched in December 2012.

This free app is available on iPhone and iPad in the Apple App store. The app provided the opportunity for Archbishop Broglio to share his Christmas greeting and blessing throughout this global archdiocese when, on December 15th, the first live-streamed event took place via the new app. Over 3,000 visitors from 61 countries watched the John Angotti and Friends Christmas Concert that included a recorded video message from Archbishop Broglio. More live streamed events, video retreats, prayers for the military, documents of the Second Vatican Council, and a searchable database of the Catechism of the Catholic Church may be found on the app.

Other developments include the new Year of Faith prayer cards that have been sent to military Catholic faith communities, installation subscriptions to CatholicQuiz.com, and training for installations in the Eastern Vicariate of the United States to support the Why Catholic? small faith groups. What are you doing to reflect upon and rediscover the faith? >

Visit: www.milarch.org/yearoffaith to find a way to encourage your own adult faith formation and that of others too.

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By MATTHEW LOCKWOOD | ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT In conjunction with CAROL NETTINA | DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATE

AND MARGARET BÉTIT EVANGELIZATION ASSOCIATE

|

38th Annual MARINE CORPS MARATHON he Archdiocese for the Military Services (AMS) will participate in the 38th Annual Marine Corps Marathon (MCM) as a Charity Partner. 25 members of the AMS family, including staff, seminarians, and supporters, will run 26.2 miles across Northern Virginia and Washington, D.C. on Sunday, October 27, 2013 to raise money and awareness for the archdiocese.

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MARINE CORPS MARATHON

he MCM does not pay winners prize money, earning it a reputation as “The People’s Marathon.” Created in 1976 to “promote community goodwill, showcase the Marine Corps, serve as a recruiting tool, and give local Marines an opportunity to qualify for the legendary Boston Marathon,” the MCM has surged in popularity since the first race between 1,175 runners. Last year, 30,000 race entries sold out in less than three hours, making the MCM the fourth largest marathon in the United States and the ninth largest in the world.

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There are three ways you can support the AMS runners: 1)

Remember them in your prayers. These 25 men and women have volunteered to participate because they want to represent the archdiocese favorably in “The People’s Marathon.” Pray for their safety and success.

2)

Volunteer to support AMS runners. There will be five locations along the MCM course that are optimal for spectators to watch and cheer on the AMS runners. Signs will be distributed along the route the day of the race. Course maps as well as advice will be available, for those traveling between locations via Metro or bicycle.

3)

Sponsor an AMS runner. The archdiocese hopes to raise $50,000. Each runner is trying to raise at least $1,000. You can help meet these goals by making a donation, either to an individual runner or the archdiocese in general at www.milarch.org/MCM. Every dollar raised will be used to further the AMS mission of providing spiritual and pastoral care to the 1.8 million Catholics in the armed forces, VA Medical Centers, civilian jobs for the U.S. government beyond our borders, and their families. > spring 2013 |

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Photos and Story By GARY J. KUNICH Reprinted with Permission of 5000 West.

Forty-One Years and Counting for Father Norm

FATHER NORM RELAXES IN HIS VA OFFICE, SURROUNDED BY BOOKS AND GIFTS GIVEN TO HIM OVER THE YEARS BY FRIENDS AND VETERANS.

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here are fuzzy-headed troll dolls and beanbag teddy bears. There is a tiny, decorated Christmas tree in the corner, a devil and a soldier nutcracker, and a Green Bay Packers clock on the wall – along with about 100 other pictures, posters, coffee mugs, books and knick-knacks.

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I

f it were not for the collection of crucifixes that also dot the office landscape, you might not even know this office belongs to a priest. Not just any priest – the priest – the Chief of Chaplains at the Milwaukee VA Medical Center, a place he has worked since 1990.

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ccording to “The Associated Press Stylebook” – the Bible of journalists everywhere – they say we are supposed to call him the Reverend Norman Oswald.

Patients, Veterans and employees know him better as simply, “Father Norm.”

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nd Father Norm just hit a milestone in his career May 19, 2012 when he celebrated 40 years in the priesthood. It is a career that took him to two different parishes before he ended up at the Milwaukee VA for a part-time gig that was anything but, and a stint as the Green Bay Packers official priest when they played their games in Milwaukee.

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half hour interview takes the better part of an hour because, let’s face it, when you spend 41 years as a priest, you are bound to have some good stories, and Father Norm does not disappoint.

“This might be the most nongovernment office in the government,” he said with a laugh. “But everything you see here was a gift, and everything here tells a story. Some of them are good stories and some of them are sad stories, but they serve as a constant reminder and memory about what is important.”

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eing a priest should come naturally.

It is something he said he wanted to do since the 6th grade, even though his father tried from time to time to talk him out of it and get him to take over the family carpentry business.

“He was afraid I was not doing it for me, and he died six months before I was ordained,” Father Norm said. “That is when I found out he was praying for me every day for my vocation. And he was happy when I was ordained as a deacon, because then he knew I was doing it for me, and he knew I was happy.”

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is dad had been in the Army Air Corps and then the Air Force and served in World War II and Korea. It was only natural, Father Norm said, to want to do the same and serve as an Air Force chaplain. But when he graduated from seminary in 1972, the archbishop refused to let him go and said he was needed in Wisconsin. He was assigned to St. Mark’s in Kenosha from 1972 to 1980.

“It was a great place. Got to meet a lot of great people,” he said. “My favorite part was the baptisms. You get to see the joy of a lot of first-time parents, and because of that, they reconnected with the church.”

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t was tough to leave, Father Norm said, when he was reassigned to Immaculate Conception in Bay View – the same place he was baptized as a baby. (continued on page 40) spring 2013 |

39

Forty-One Years and Counting for Father Norm

(continued from page 39)

FATHER NORM REACHING OUT TO VIETNAM VETERANS.

“I started there as the associate pastor and then took over, and when we started, we had 1,000 families on our rolls at the church, and when I left, there were 1,700,” he said. “We just did it with old-fashioned, door-knocking, and meeting people, inviting them to church and renewing their faith.”

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ut by 1990 he needed a break and took some much-needed sabbatical time. A few months later, the bishop called and asked if he wanted a part-time job at the VA. He figured it was finally his chance to come full circle. If he could not serve in the military, he could serve those who served in the military.

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ut paperwork got lost, with part of it going to one part of the VA, and the rest of it going somewhere else. He could not get hired until one place or the other found the paperwork so it could all be put together.

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“And on July 22 – my father’s birthday – is when they found all the paperwork, and I was hired. I always felt that was him looking out for me and making it happen,” he smiled.

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lthough it was supposedly a part-time position of six hours a week, he found himself here more and more.

“This was a test,” he said. “My assignment was with the substance abuse patients, the locked mental health ward, and spinal cord injury,” he said.

“It was scary at first, and I had to learn to drop my fears, and learn how to listen.

“It was really the spinal cord patients who taught me about life.

I always thought, ‘If anyone has a right to go through life feeling sorry and depressed, it is them.’ But they are anything but that. They embrace life. They used to wait for me to come up to (the

clinic), and they would race me down the hall. They have such a camaraderie and support for one another, and are so quick to help a new patient and pull him through the sadness. That is a very admirable trait, and I try to use that myself as the eternal optimist.”

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e is also an eternal Packers fan – hence the green and gold memorabilia that dots his office. And during football season, as he has done for so many years, he always ends his Mass with a special blessing for the Green Bay Packers.

here are so many more stories, but Father Norm’s a busy guy. He spent his morning counseling substance abuse patients, and had another appointment coming up. It is one of the favorite parts of his job now. “Because there are people who come here with no hope, who do not think they deserve God, and I tell them that they do, that they are all children of God, and children are not done growing and learning. “Sometimes people come to me and they are angry and they are atheists.

They might leave here and still be atheists, but they do not leave angry,” he added.

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ord got back to the team, and he was asked to serve as their Catholic priest when they would play a few games a year at County Stadium, from 1994 to 1998.

The job did not pay, but he got to meet a lot of the greats and had some great football seats. “That was a great time,” he said.

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e also took over as the chief of chaplains around 1994. In this position he still counsels those patients who need it most, and says Mass several times a week. He supervises seven other chaplains, along with his secretary, Donna Babineau, who keeps it all together. “His staff is well taken care of, and no matter what is going on, he is never too busy to lend an ear, offer a helping hand, give you constructive criticism or get your back, if need be,” she said. “He seems to be able to find the positive in any kind of situation.”

t is hard to say where Father Norm will be celebrating his next career milestone.

He’s 66, and already made a deal with the medical center director that he would not retire before him.

“When I graduated seminary I was going to light the world on fire,” he chuckled. “And in my own way, I lit my fires. I am wiser now. So we will see where I am at when I am 70. I did not say I am going to retire at 70. I may still keep going. I like what I do.” With at least four more years, he is going to need a bigger office or more wall space. He laughs that loud, Father Norm laugh.

“No, I can just move everything on the walls closer together.” >

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Remembering Monsignor Sommer – the Nation’s Oldest Military Chaplain

By TAYLOR HENRY

MONSIGNORE JEROME O. SOMMER AT AMS HEADQUARTERS

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n 18 November 2012, the nation lost its oldest Catholic military chaplain. Monsignor Jerome O. Sommer was 97 when born into everlasting life on Sunday before Thanksgiving, exactly one week after Veterans Day.

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ourteen months before his death of natural causes at the Regina Cleri Home in St. Louis, Missouri, Monsignor Sommer sat across my desk at the chancery of the Archdiocese for the Military Services.

He had driven 840 miles from St. Louis to Washington to concelebrate the 6 September 2011 Memorial Mass for Father Vincent R. Capodanno, M.M., Servant of God. Monsignor Sommer looked remarkably well-preserved for a man his age, his skin as smooth as one 50 years his junior.

Recounting his World War II experiences as a U.S. Army Chaplain in the Far East, he tapped a memory as sharp as a bayonet.

I sensed a personal connection. Monsignor Sommer was the same age as my father, who also served in the Pacific theater and died in 1978. I wondered if their paths ever crossed.

Monsignor Sommer was ordained in 1940 at Kenrick Seminary in St. Louis, a classmate of Korean War hero, Father Emil Kapaun, Servant of God. In 1945, he received orders from St. Louis Archbishop John Glennon to apply for a commission as an Army chaplain. Weeks later he was in the Army “for a duration, plus 6 months.” The “duration” lasted from 1945 through 1974.

Months after commissioning he found himself on a troop ship in the Philippines, scheduled to be part of the invasion force on the Japanese mainland. Although Japan’s surrender pre-empted invasion, Father Sommer did land on Japanese soil with the Army of Occupation.

Monsignor Sommer spent more than half his 29-year Army career abroad, in the Philippines, Japan, Germany, Korea, Turkey, and Vietnam, always considering military service missionary work. In 1955, an Armed Forces Radio interviewer asked how he became a chaplain, suggesting “so you have chosen the Army as your career?”

Father Sommer set the record straight: “The Army is not my career no matter how many years I spend in it. My career was already well-established before I entered the Army. In Catholic circles we call it our ‘vocation.’ My vocation – career if you will – is to be a priest. It remains so whether I am on duty in the military or in civilian life.”

Considerable postings overseas allowed Monsignor Sommer to witness numerous historic Church events. In Rome, he was present when Pope Pius XII declared the dogma of the Assumption (1950), and he attended the episcopal ordination of Fulton J. Sheen (1951). In Korea (1955), he assisted at Midnight Mass with Cardinal Spellman, then Archbishop of New York and Military Vicar.

In 2010, Pope Benedict XVI named Monsignor Sommer among the “Apostolic Protonotaries Supernumerary,” the highest title for a Monsignors.

During our interview, I asked Monsignor Sommer the secret of his longevity. “My clean living,” he said. “I never smoked, I am only a moderate drinker, and I have kept active, physically and mentally.” >

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Retirements &Anniversaries 2012 Retirements Branch of Service

Name

Yrs of Service

Diocese/Rel. Order

Air Force Air Force Army Navy Navy Navy Navy Navy Navy VA VA VA VA VA VA VA

Reverend John Srode, CPPS Reverend Patrick Beck Reverend Michael Honor Reverend Robert P. McClanahan Reverend Karl Lindblad * Reverend Miles J. Barrett Reverend Robert L. Keane, SJ Reverend John T. Hannigan * Reverend Alexander J. Borzych Reverend Sean Connery Reverend Leo Rimmele Reverend Clarito Rara Reverend Raymond R. Lagace, OFM Reverend Paul Henry Reverend Joseph Hickey Reverend Richard Wolter

31 22 26 28 27 21 23 22 20 26 23 17 15 14 14 11

VA VA VA VA VA

Reverend Paul O’Connor Reverend John Palatucci Reverend Willis Everett Reverend Gerald Wright Reverend Maryon Jordan, O.S.V.

07 07 05 04 03

Society of the Precious Blood Diocese of Beaumont Palo, Philippines Diocese of Pensacola Archdiocese of New York Diocese of Sioux City Society of Jesus, NE Province Archdiocese of Chicago Diocese of Grand Island Diocese of Wilmington Archdiocese of Seattle Archdiocese of Houston OFM, Canadian Province Archdiocese of Baltimore Archdiocese of New York Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis Archdiocese of New York Archdiocese of New York Diocese of Augusta Diocese of Erie

2013 Anniversaries

* currently Contract Priest or VA Chaplain

10 YEARS VA VA Navy Navy Air Force Air Force Air Force Air Force Army Army Army Contract

Reverend Ross La Framboise Reverend Tarasisio, AJ Tumuhereze Reverend David A. Daigle Reverend Tung Thanh Tran Reverend Cyriacus N. Onyejegbu Reverend Edward F. Ramtowski Reverend Son Nguyen Reverend Phillip A. Kaim Reverend John K. Brocato Reverend Emmanuel C. Okeiyi Reverend Lito D. Amande Reverend James R. Kurzynski

07-Jun-03 03-Aug-03 01-Apr-03 14-Jun-03 17-May-03 24-May-03 07-Jun-03 30-Jun-03 31-May-03 23-Aug-03 25-Nov-03 28-Jun-03

Reverend John A. Milewski Reverend Bryan Brooks Reverend Luis R. Brioso-Texidor Reverend Joseph B. Westfall Reverend Peter J. Iorio Reverend Ulysses L. Ubalde Reverend Rean Frederick C. Enriquez Reverend Kevin W. Cody

15-May-93 28-May-93 29-May-93 05-Jun-93 06-Aug-93 29-May-93 18-Dec-93 05-Jun-93

20 YEARS VA VA VA VA VA Navy Navy Air Force

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20 YEARS (CONTINUED) Air Force Army Army Contract Contract Contract Contract

Reverend Timothy J. Hirten Reverend Edgar G. Villanueva Reverend Krzysztof A. Kopec Reverend Mark R. Richards Reverend John V. Hotze Reverend Mark Pranaitis, c.m.

Reverend Hau Quang Pham, CSSR

09-Oct-93 27-Apr-93 23-Oct-93 01-May-93 05-Jun-93 18-Jun-93 04-Sep-93

Reverend Mark S. Rivituso Reverend Charles F. Smith, SVD Reverend Benjamin Chinnappan Reverend Michael J. Knipe Reverend Richard R. Walz Reverend Robert P. Hyde, Jr. Reverend David J. Newton Reverend Ivan J. Torres Reverend Rinaldo Damian Reverend Terrence J. Dumas Reverend James M. Stump, OFM Cap Reverend W. Jeffrey Paulish Reverend Cosmas P. Archibong Reverend John W. Juszczak Reverend David V. McGuire Reverend Timothy A. Butler Reverend Antonio R. Rigonan The Most Reverend F. Richard Spencer Reverend Gary Michael Fukes Reverend John Vianney Ijeoma Reverend Isaac M. Opara Reverend Juan T. Alvarez-Romano Reverend Rudy T. Carrola

16-Jan-88 16-Apr-88 26-May-88 27-May-88 28-May-88 04-Jun-88 04-Jun-88 18-Jun-88 02-Jul-88 27-Aug-88 27-Aug-88 08-Sep-88 08-Oct-88 29-May-88 11-Jun-88 25-Jun-88 25-Jun-88 14-May-88 04-Jun-88 16-Jul-88 15-Aug-88 21-May-88 21-May-88

Reverend Leoncio Sucre Santiago Reverend Roger R. Boucher Reverend John J. Bucchino, OFM Reverend Daniel J. Scott, MS Reverend Robert M. Striegel Reverend Semanhyia J. Boateng-Mensah Reverend Frederick J. Lutz Reverend Jerry T. Mesley Reverend John F. Allt Reverend Paul E. Stewart Reverend William A. Riegel, CSB Reverend Samuel Rosales Reverend Jerome D. Mueller, OFM Reverend Peter Francis Mockler Reverend Anthony J. Jelinek Reverend John B. Martinek

26-Jan-73 27-Apr-73 19-May-73 26-May-73 14-Jul-73 15-Jul-73 02-Apr-73 24-Apr-73 06-May-73 26-May-73 03-Jun-73 06-Jun-73 09-Jun-73 10-Jun-73 19-Jun-73 05-Sep-73

25 YEARS VA VA VA VA VA VA VA VA VA VA VA VA VA Air Force Air Force Air Force Air Force Army Army Army Army Contract Contract

40 YEARS VA VA VA VA VA VA Contract Contract Contract Contract Contract Contract Contract Contract Contract Contract

(continued on page 47)

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Reverend Monsignor Robert J. Coyle Named to be AMS Auxiliary Bishop Will serve under Archbishop Timothy P. Broglio as Episcopal Vicar for Eastern Half of the United States

O REVEREND MONSIGNOR ROBERT J. COYLE

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n 11 February, 2013, His Holiness, Pope Benedict XVI named Reverend Monsignor Robert J. Coyle, a retired U.S. Navy Chaplain Commander and Pastor of Corpus Christi Catholic Church in Mineola, N.Y., as Titular Bishop of Zabi and auxiliary bishop for the Archdiocese for the Military Services (AMS). After his episcopal ordination, Reverend Monsignor Coyle, 48, will serve under His Excellency, the Most Reverend Timothy P. Broglio, J.C.D., Archbishop for the Military Services, as Episcopal Vicar for the Eastern Half of the United States. Archbishop Broglio will ordain Bishop-elect Coyle in a solemn Mass at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception on 25 April, the Feast of St. Mark.

he Holy Father has again shown his pastoral concern for the faithful of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA by naming Monsignor Robert Coyle, titular Bishop-elect of Zabi, to serve this global Church,” the Archbishop said. “On behalf of the other Auxiliary Bishops, clergy, staff, and the faithful of the Archdiocese I am grateful to our Holy Father. I also give thanks to Monsignor Coyle who has accepted this new mission and to Bishop Murphy and the faithful of Rockville Centre who have prepared and now given this faithful priest to all of us.”

Bishop-designate Coyle said, “I humbly accept the appointment of our Holy Father, Pope Benedict XVI, to serve the people of God as an auxiliary bishop in the Archdiocese for the Military Services. I look toward to assisting Archbishop Timothy Broglio in service to the people of this vast Archdiocese. Ever grateful for the many members of the military family who

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have shaped my life over the last 25 years, I especially ask for the intercession of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton, patroness of the Sea Services. In this Year of Faith, I now set out on a new course in service to Our Lord Jesus and His Church. May we pray for one another.”

Reverend Monsignor Coyle was born 23 September, 1964 in Brooklyn, N.Y. His parents, Robert and Kathryn Coyle, now live in Cold Spring Hills, N.Y. Reverend Monsignor Coyle graduated from St. Edward Confessor Elementary School, Syosset, N.Y., in 1978; St. Mary’s Boys High School, Manhasset, N.Y., in 1982; Fordham University, with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics, in 1986; and Immaculate Conception Seminary, Huntington, N.Y., with a Master of Divinity in 1991 and a Master of Arts degree in Theology in 1998. He was ordained a priest on 25 May, 1991 for the Diocese of Rockville Centre, N.Y. by Bishop John R. McGann at St. Agnes Cathedral.

Reverend Monsignor Coyle was commissioned an ensign in the U.S. Navy on 3 June, 1988 and served 24.5 years on Active and Reserve Duty before his retirement from the Naval Reserve on 1 January, 2013. As a Navy Reserve Chaplain, Reverend Monsignor Coyle served as Associate Pastor at St. Dominic Church in Oyster Bay, N.Y. from 1991 to 1996 and St. Patrick’s Church in Glen Cove, N.Y. from 1996 to 1999.

Reverend Monsignor Coyle served on Active Duty from 1999 to 2009. He was assigned to the 3rd Marine Division on Okinawa, Japan from 1999 to 2000, during which time he was promoted to Lieutenant Commander and deployed to Southeast Asia as Landing Force Chaplain. During a three year assignment aboard the USS Harry S. TRUMAN (CVN75) Aircraft Carrier from 2000 to 2003, he deployed

to the Middle East from 2000 to 2001 and served in Operation Southern Watch and Operation Iraqi Freedom from 2002 to 2003. Assigned to the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy in Kings Point, N.Y. from 2003 to 2007, Reverend Monsignor Coyle reported first as Assistant Command Chaplain before assuming duties as Command Chaplain.

In April of 2005, Reverend Monsignor Coyle was promoted to the rank of Commander, U.S. Navy. From 2007 to 2009, he served on the USS Dwight D. EISENHOWER (CVN69) Aircraft Carrier and deployed to the Middle East in 2009 for Operation Enduring Freedom.

In 2008, Bishop-elect was named by Pope Benedict XVI a Chaplain to His Holiness, a recognition that carries the honorary title, “Monsignor.” Reverend Monsignor Coyle is a 4th Degree Knight of Columbus. >

Retirements &Anniversaries

(continued from page 45)

2013 Anniversaries (continued) 50 YEARS VA VA VA VA VA VA VA VA Contract Contract Contract Contract Contract Contract Contract Contract

Reverend Lionel E. Bonneville Reverend Thomas P. Hunstiger Reverend Monsignor Timothy O’Connell Reverend Denis E. Meier Reverend Jerome A. Beat Reverend Gregory J. Lieser Reverend William J. Hamilton, SJ Reverend Douglas J. Hennessy Reverend James Kudilil Reverend Vincent Cushing, OFM Reverend James F. Finley Reverend Arnold W. De Porter Reverend Patrick D. McCool, OSB Reverend Francis X. Callahan Reverend Richard Gross Reverend Nils Francis Thompson, OFM

02-Feb-63 02-Mar 63 01-May-63 23-May-63 25-May-63 01-Jun-63 15-Jun-63 14-Jul-63 17-Feb-63 02-Mar-63 30-Mar-63 18-May-63 25-May-63 25-May-63 08-Jun-63 13-Jun-63

Reverend Joseph W. Grace Reverend Maurice R. La Croix Reverend Albert E. Ruschman The Most Reverend Joseph M. Sartoris Reverend Richard J. Lombard

26-May-53 30-May-53 30-May-53 30-May-53 20-Dec-53

60 YEARS VA VA VA VA Contract

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PAID

PERMIT NO 60 FARMINGDALE, NY 11735

— Archbishop Timothy P. Broglio

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

“Serving Those Who Serve”

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

Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA

NON-PROFIT ORG. US POSTAGE