Dear Friends of the Archdiocese for the Military Services,
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hrist is born for us! Glory to God in the highest and peace on earth to the men and women whom He loves. May all people hear an echo of the message of Bethlehem which the Catholic Church repeats in every continent, beyond the confines of every nation, language and culture. The Son of the Virgin Mary is born for everyone; He is the Savior of all.” So the Holy Father proclaimed to the city of Rome and to the world last year on Christmas Day. Christmas is indeed a very beautiful time when we draw close to family and friends and pray in a particular way for the elusive gift of peace.
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f course, the publication of each issue of SALUTE reminds me that my frequent flier accounts are growing as I visit the faithful assigned to my spiritual care around the world. The month of December always makes demands on schedules and this year will be no different. Bishops Higgins, Spencer, and Buckon and I plan to visit the faithful at different installations in order to announce the joy of the Savior’s coming to the faithful. God willing, I will celebrate the Savior’s Nativity in Korea! Your prayers for the successful completion of our pastoral wanderings are deeply appreciated.
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he Archdiocese, both her clergy and faithful, remember that last year Bishop Estabrook was still on his earthly pilgrimage and joined in expressing best wishes to chaplains and benefactors. We believe that his prayers still join with ours in begging the new-born King for the welfare of all.
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s has become tradition, this issue of the AMS quarterly publication will include some stories of present and past Christmas activities fostered by the Archdiocese. This Christmas, the only one to be celebrated in the context of the Year of Faith, will be a significant celebration of a central mystery of our faith.
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njoy the following pages of SALUTE. Invoking abundant blessings from the Christ Child upon all of you, I wish you and all your loved ones the joy and peace proclaimed by the Angels at Bethlehem and longed for by all men and women of good will! Sincerely in Christ,
Most Reverend Timothy P. Broglio Archbishop
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THE MAGAZINE OF THE ARCHDIOCESE FOR THE MILITARY SERVICES, USA VOLUME 6 NUMBER 4 CHRISTMAS 2012
TA B L E
CONTENTS
of
4 Announcing the Kingdom Around the Globe Archbishop Timothy P. Broglio
12 The Summer “Break” Bishop Richard B. Higgins
14 MCCW - Worldwide Holds Conference in Saint Louis Bishop Neal J. Buckon
16 No Stranger in this Year of Faith Bishop F. Richard Spencer
20 Year of Faith Online Mark T. Moitoza, D. Min.
24 Father Capodanno Mass Courage, Fidelity, Service Extolled at Memorial Mass
26 The Holy Spirit is Working POWERFULLY! Father Kerry M. Abbott, OFM Conv.
29 Priest Contractors Alternatives To Active Duty Chaplaincy, Father John Kaul
31 Christmas at Sea Monsignor Frank A. Pugliese 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.
2012 CHRISTMAS 2011
T H E M A G A Z I N E O F T H E A R C H D I O C E S E F O R T H E M I L I T A R Y S E RV I C E S , U S A
ADDRESS CHANGES AND NEW SUBSCRIPTIONS: Please send title, name, address, and phone number to: support@milarch.org or call: 202-719-3600 or write: Development Office, Archdiocese for
the Military Services, P.O. Box 4469, Washington, D.C. 20017-0469 Feedback, letters to the editor, & advertising inquiries: editor@milarch.org Website: www.milarch.org ON THE COVER: Madonna and Child, Giovanni Battista Salvi da Sassoferrato,
“Glory to God in the highest; and on earth peace to men of good will.” —Luke 2:10-14
(Sassoferrato – Marche, 1609 – Rome, 1685) ARCHBISHOP TIMOTHY P. BROGLIO President
MONSIGNOR FRANK A. PUGLIESE Editorial Director
JO ANN REDMOND Editor
ERIC NEUNER | RPISTUDIOS Design Director
© 2012 - 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
ANNOUNCING
THE KINGDOM AROUND THE GLOBE
ARCHBISHOP BROGLIO ATTENDING THE EUROPEAN CATHOLIC MILITARY YOUTH CONFERENCE IN GERMANY
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ir travel constitutes a necessary dimension of ministering to a global Archdiocese! I tend to be rather reserved when I board a plane. I find my seat and occupy it quickly. Usually the noise-cancelling headphones, a great gift from my loving nieces and nephews, are quickly utilized. Reading or composition usually occupies me during the flight time. 4
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owever, on a recent flight back to Washington, DC from Italy, a flight attendant discovered my identity. While I always travel in clerics, you would have to look to see and recognize the bishop’s ring to know that I was not only a priest. She informed her colleague that the Archbishop for the Military Services was on board.
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brief conversation ensued and the second flight attendant let me know that her son had just finished his specialization and his first assignment would be in Korea. She was delighted to know that my agenda would have me there at Christmas time. Later she confided that it would be his first Christmas away from the family and she was pleased to know that his archbishop would be “in the neighborhood”. My anonymity was undone, but I was pleased to offer a bit of consolation to a mother and to assure her that this massive universal Church has a heart and a face. It was good to find myself in a position to communicate a shepherd’s concern for his flock. The travels all make sense when you put the human face on them. Last August after celebrating thirty-five years of ordained ministry with my classmates in Columbus, Ohio where a classmate is Rector of the Pontifical College Josephinum, I boarded a plane for Frankfurt, Germany. The summer storms had forced a cancellation of my plane from Columbus to Dulles and so I arrived in Germany a day late. When Dr. Mark Moitoza and his son Luke escorted me to the charmingly
beautiful shrine and retreat center at Schönstatt, the European Catholic Military Youth Conference was in full swing. Almost 150 people, between teenagers and adults, were delving into the challenges and joys of our faith. New faces and familiar ones greeted me as they scurried from one session to the next. After a private Mass in the house chapel and some German fare, it was time to participate in a forum organized by the young people. Questions had been submitted by the participants and the “panel” composed of teens had researched the questions and gave excellent answers. A few of the more daunting ones were saved for Fathers John Vianney Ijeoma, Matthew Pawlikowski and me. You could not help but to be impressed by the seriousness with which our young men and women approached this exercise. The young people responded well to good questions. Everyone was attentive and everyone learned something (even the old guy writing this article!). The rest of the weekend went well. Adoration on Saturday night was intense, prayerful, and exceedingly silent. Everyone appreciated that quality time with our Lord exposed in the Blessed (continued on page 6) christmas 2012 |
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Announcing the Kingdom around the Globe Sacrament. The priests present and I heard numerous confessions. In fact, time did not permit everyone to take advantage of that life-giving and healing sacrament. A few priests continued the ministry the next morning before the closing Mass. Marty McCarty of Club Beyond presented the Military Community Youth Ministries’ Award to Mark Moitoza and me. Mark certainly deserved it, but I have my doubts about what merits I might have to justify honoring my contributions. I concluded my European sojourn with a brief pastoral visit to the Catholic Community at the Ederle Garrison, the Army post near Vicenza. Father Wieslaw Dynek organized many opportunities to visit the community and to celebrate Mass with them on the Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin. The community is thriving and so many contribute their time and talents to assure a vibrant faith life. There was also an opportunity to pay my respects to the Most Reverend Beniamino Pizziol, Bishop of Vicenza. He was surprised by the extent of the ministry fostered by the Archdiocese for the Military Services. From the end of that pastoral visit on 17 August until 17 September, I was privileged to spend some time at the AMS offices in Washington, DC. Those days allow me to catch up on correspondence,
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dedicate some time to my responsibilities with the US Bishops’ Conference where I serve on three committees or subcommittees and am chairman of a task force. The dedicated staff of the Conference really does provide excellent assistance and must deal with the challenges of the schedules of diocesan Bishops. An interesting duty this year was the request from Cardinal Wuerl that I preach the homily at the annual Red Mass (see the text on page 8). The challenge of encouraging the women and men who administer and foster justice in our country and joining them in a prayer for wisdom was no small order, especially in the trying circumstances of the relationship between the current Administration and the Catholic Church. However, a homily is to be a reflection on the word of God applied to the life of the believers. It is not a political commentary. It was indeed a pleasure to see the familiar uniforms of the Naval Academy. About ten midshipmen had been invited to the Mass by the John Carroll Society, the Washington group that sponsors and organizes the annual celebration. It was reassuring to see them there. Of course, I had been out to Annapolis during Plebe summer to let the new plebes know that they now belong to a new Archdiocese, whose chief shepherd is committed to their
“For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.” — JOHN 3:16
pastoral care. I noticed a few Plebes among the Midshipmen present at the Red Mass! Travel also took me to St. Louis for the MCCW World-Wide meeting. Of course, the women had organized everything to perfection. They provided a suite with a splendid view of the Arch and the Mississippi River. A map was included with some tasty delights so that I would not get lost in the suite or in the hotel! It is always impressive to see the women who travel from around the world to participate in this biennial event. Bishop Buckon, the Episcopal Moderator of the MCCW, stayed for the entire meeting. My obligations forced me to leave on Friday in order to participate in the 20th annual military pilgrimage of the Croatian Military Diocese to the shrine of Marija Bistrica, a much frequented pilgrimage place dedicated to Our Lady. It was an honor to join the Croatian Military Bishop, the Most Reverend Juraj Jezerinac, and various other visiting military Ordinaries (France, Slovakia, and Bosnia-Herzegovina) for an impressive outdoor Mass, celebrated by the Apostolic Nuncio to Croatia, the Most Reverend Alessandro D’Errico, an old friend and colleague. Luckily, our Croatian hosts had provided an English translation of Bishop Jezerinac’s homily. Croatian is not an easy language to understand!
At the light luncheon which followed, I was seated across from the Croatian Army Chief of Staff. In conversation I learned that I had confirmed his daughter at SHAPE in 2009. It is indeed a small world! The day at the shrine concluded with an impressive Stations of the Cross. When we reached the VIII Station, I looked down the hillside and could see that the columns of soldiers, police personnel, and faithful were still at the beginning of the Via Crucis. The sound system was excellent so that all could follow the prayers and devotions. I confess that I was tired at the end of that day. This voyage concluded with a brief pastoral visit to Aviano Air Base where I was royally received. The thriving Catholic community there enjoys the ministry of Father Paul Amaliri, a priest of Tulsa. Needless to write, time in Italy is always agreeable. The new Bishop of Concordia-Pordenone, the Most Reverend Giuseppe Pellegrini, received me very warmly and is supportive of the ministry at the Air Base. He and I have many friends in common and so conversation was easy and pleasant. Mass and an inviting supper with the faithful concluded my time in northeastern Italy and led to the plane trip described at the beginning of this article. > christmas 2012 |
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By ARCHBISHOP TIMOTHY P. BROGLIO
Red Mass Homily 30.IX.12
ARCHBISHOP TIMOTHY P. BROGLIO GIVING THE HOMILY AT THE RED MASS
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he author A.J. Cronin told the story of a district nurse he knew during the time he practiced medicine. She covered a ten-mile district by herself, was extremely capable and generous with her time. She was patient and cheerful. Her salary was insignificant and late one night after a particularly strenuous day, Dr. Cronin suggested that she demand a higher salary.“God knows you are worth it”, he added. Her reply was classic,“if God knows I’m worth it, that is all that matters to me”.1 8 christmas 2012 |
I PHOTO CREDIT: © CATHOLIC STANDARD PHOTOS BY RAFAEL CRISOSTOMO.
ndeed if we live and work with the confidence that we are inserted into the Lord’s plan, then that is all that matters. Is that not what the Word of God tells us this morning at the 60th annual Red Mass as the readings invite us to be open to the Spirit of God, beg His blessing on a new judicial year, and strive to be instruments of a new evangelization?
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he passage from the Book of Numbers is fascinating. The Lord has guided the Chosen People out of Egypt and through the desert, but there is a structure and a system to govern them. Seventy elders are chosen to help Moses with the task of judging, but Eldad and Medad miss the installation. Still they receive the gift and the mission. o Joshua’s concern about a possible challenge to Moses’ leadership, he explains that the divine gift is not limited by place, but attached to the person, wherever he or she might be found. The sovereign liberty of God determines how He will act and that obliges the believer of all times to question the temptation to close God within the narrow spaces of a justice which assigns itself the task of protecting the presumed rights of God while trampling upon those of his or her brothers and sisters.
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f course, you and I live in a world of forms, ID’s, procedures, and verification. One commentator on this passage suggested that in the near future in order to die you will have to fill out the appropriate form, and perhaps a diligent clerk will tell you to save the receipt to present to St. Peter at the Gates of Paradise.
oses’ wish is the better course: “Would that all the people of the Lord were prophets!” His invitation is to look for the evidence of the good, of truth, and of the beautiful in another. There is not a monopoly of the Spirit, but rather an abundance of gifts to be used to build up the Body of Christ.
ow appropriate it is to speak about that abundance on September 30th when we would normally celebrate St. Jerome, a learned doctor of the Church who was first charged to translate the Bible from its original languages to the vernacular Latin. His talents were used to make the Word of God accessible to the ordinary folk.
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e remember him and remain inspired by his quest for learning as we gather as a community of faith to beg an abundance of blessings upon the women and men of our judiciary and the legal profession. It is a moment to pause and pray for those who serve our Country and foster justice for all. We know that a believing community engages in prayer for the needs of all, but especially for those who face arduous tasks. (continued on page 10) christmas 2012 |
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Red Mass Homily 30.IX.12
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ndeed “Justice is radically intolerant of injustice; justice seeks out injustice to destroy it. To emphasize security at the expense of eradicating injustice creates a fool’s paradise” 2 The Romans put it more succinctly: “Justitia non novit patrem nec matrem; solum veritatem spectat justitia.” Justice knows neither father nor mother; justice looks to the truth alone.
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or that reason we are here primarily to pray with you and for you as you execute the daunting task assigned to you at various levels. We beg a blessing for all of you and for all of those who assist you in this important ministry. We invoke the only Just One so that He might inspire all that you do. We recognize “that those who involve themselves with human law are doing God’s work. You are called to be involved with the same matters with which the Lord God is involved in relationship with His creation.”3
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e have heard the question posed by the Apostles just before the Lord Jesus ascended into heaven. Their vision was of a political reality alone: the end of the hated Roman rule and the independence of the Chosen People. It was a vision firmly anchored in this world alone. They would need the gift of the Holy Spirit so as to purify their goals, understand their mission correctly and be able to accomplish it.
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o we pray for all of those gathered here that they might welcome the strength of the Holy Spirit and the interior
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dynamism with which He fills our hearts. We do so just before the beginning of the Year of Faith given to us by the Holy Father, because there is a “need to rediscover the journey of faith so as to shed ever clearer light on the joy and renewed enthusiasm of the encounter with Christ.” 4
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he mission is always audacious, but it is possible with the gifts of the Holy Spirit. We are instruments in the hands of the Lord and so we pray to be ever open to His presence. The message is filled with hope: not only for eternal life, but also for the graces necessary so that our lives are truly noble, worthy of God, and of the vocation He has given us.
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e speak so often of the New Evangelization, because we recognize that we must be its instruments in all that we do. The faith we hold in our hearts must motivate the decisions, the words, and the commitment of our everyday existence. That existence is extraordinary, because it is infused with divine grace. St. Thomas More said that he died the good servant of the King, but the faithful servant of God first. We, too, are faithful citizens only when we embrace the fullness of the principles of our faith and allow them to enliven and fortify our contributions to the life of the Nation. Or to draw on the eloquence of the Archbishop of Baltimore in a paraphrase: we must be loyal Americans by being bold and courageous men and women of faith and conviction regarding the ethical norms that guide society and its choices.5
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here is so much that we bring to the discourse of our society. Our faith expresses itself in worship, but also in witness. From the beginning the Church has been active in society to make a contribution, especially to the care of the poor, but also to education. The first universities grew out of the monasteries. We cannot separate who we are from how we live. To quote Father Alfred Delp, a Jesuit condemned to death by the Nazis, “Futility or ineffectiveness do not dispense one from speaking the truth, declaring what is right and just…Woe if the prophets are mute out of fear that their word might not be heeded.” 6
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am reminded of my first year as a seminarian in Rome. An important 19th Century Justice Department building was closed because it was unsafe. It seemed to be sinking into the ground. Yet the Colosseum, Pantheon, and the ruins of the Roman Forum were all still standing and could be visited. It was an apt reminder that not everything contemporary is good and that stable foundations are essential. Our society must also rest on stable, clear 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
foundations. Otherwise, we run the risk of sinking into the mire of one popular sound byte after another!
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ast January the Holy Father recalled for the Bishops of this region that consensus about the nature of reality and the moral good and the conditions for human flourishing at the heart of every culture. “In America, that consensus, as enshrined in your nation’s founding documents, was grounded in a world view shaped not only by faith but a commitment to certain ethical principles deriving from nature and nature’s God.” 7
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ronin’s nurse knew that, as well. She recognized that the ultimate value was the eternal judgment rendered by Almighty God. “Whoever loves me will keep my word, and my Father will love him, and we will come to him and make our dwelling with him.” 8 >
Cf. Father Richard Beyer, The Catholic Heart Day by Day, p. 323. Most Reverend Robert J. Dwyer, at Red Mass,1957. Most Reverend Daniel Pilarczyk, Red Mass, 1988. Benedict XVI, Porta Fidei, 2. Cf. Archbishop William Lori, Installation Mass homily, 16.V.12. Father Alfred Delp, S.J. as quoted in Magnificat, Vol. 14, N. 6, (2012), p. 390-1. Benedict XVI, Address to Bishops of Region IV, 19.I.12. Jn. 14:23b. christmas 2012 |
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By BISHOP RICHARD B. HIGGINS
The Summer “Break”
AWARD RECIPIENTS L-R: ROBERT DESROCHERS, THERESA ST. LAURENT, GENEVIEVE DOBREZENIECKI, JAMES MULLARKEY AND PAST NATIONAL CHAPLAIN FATHER JAMES REDSTONE BACK ROW: L-R: JACK JONES, ALBERT SMITH, BISHOP HIGGINS, NATIONAL COMMANDER LEO HALEY, BILL TOLEDO, ROBERT WALLEY
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s an Air Force chaplain there were times when we looked forward to summer as it heralded the drawdown of our “parish” programs.We could take a break for a few months L-R: BRIG GEN JEROME LIMOGE AND BISHOP RICHARD HIGGINS before we cranked it all back up again in September. But it also meant PCS (Permanent Change of Station) time and as much as half of our Catholic communities moved to new assignments. We dreaded this element of summer as it tore at the fabric of our installations. We lost our trained and faithful lectors, ushers, choir members, RCIA team leaders, Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion, youth ministers and other key members of the community. We prayed the Holy Spirit would take care of us in the incoming PCS crew! Sometimes He did and sometimes He challenged us!
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here is no “summer break” in the 153 Medical Centers and 800+ community-based clinics operated by the Department of Veterans Affairs. The AMS endorses in excess of 240 Catholic priests to provide pastoral care to the veterans served by this vast network of Medical Centers and Clinics scattered across the United States, Guam and Puerto Rico. Thus, in my primary role as “Vicar for Veterans Affairs” summer is the time I jump in the car and head out of DC to visit the wonderful priests who serve as chaplains in the VA. During the “break” I racked up 5900 miles on the car and managed to visit our priest-chaplains at 19 VA installations stretching from Tampa, Florida to White River Junction, Vermont to Sioux Falls, South Dakota and points in between! As if the VA road trips were not enough as “Bishop Protector” of the Catholic War Veterans of America www.cwv.org I attended their annual convention held in Albuquerque, NM 12-19 August. The year 2012 will go into the history books as “Convention Year” and the CWV event was not lacking for drama and politics as we elected various representatives to fill the vacancies on the CWV National Board of Directors. The convention agenda included the annual presentation of the Saint Sebastian and Saint Agnes awards to outstanding members of the organization and its auxiliary. From year to year these exceptional individuals continue to inspire each of us in our calling to reach out to servicemen and women in need. The highlight of this year’s Convention Banquet was the riveting keynote address by Bill Toledo, a WW II Navajo code-talker who lives just west of Albuquerque. Other notable “summer” events I attended included the appointment of General Mark Welsh III as Air Force Chief of Staff in a spectacular appointment
ceremony held at Andrews Air Force Base. I have known General Welsh since my days in PACAF and his days as “The Wolf” at Kunsan Air Base, Korea. I also managed to catch up with former Chief Astronaut Charlie Precourt with whom I served at Bitburg AB, Germany and Stan Gudmundson, a classmate from Air Command and Staff College (1984-85) and a retired backseater in the legendary SR-71, now a Wisconsin “hobby farmer.” Then there was a quick trip to the Air Force Academy to participate in the promotion to brigadier general of “Doc” Jerome Limoge whom I first encountered when he was a young Air Force E-4 in Keflavik, Iceland. We were flight instructors together with the Navy Flying Club back in 1977. The “Doc” is a real “doc,” a boardcertified urologist and Senior FAA Medical Examiner! The first week of November I will be honored to “pin” Eagles (colonel) on a “young” man whom I swore in as a 2nd lieutenant at the Air Force Academy a few short years ago. Air Force Colonel Rick Aaron is the ROTC Commander at Sacramento State College, Sacramento, California. On a personal note…the relative tranquility of summer was dashed by a midafternoon phone call from my oldest brother John informing me of the sudden, unexpected death of our youngest brother Frank in his home just west of Dublin, Ireland. His death was mentioned in the last issue of SALUTE and I am most grateful to all of you who expressed your condolences on his passing. He was a real “character” in the best sense of the word, a brilliant, inspirational teacher and a phenomenal tour guide. Gifted with a quick and penetrating wit he brought joy and laughter to many a gathering of young and old alike. He is survived by his wife Gabrielle and his adult sons Julian and Stephen. Ironically, as I write these few lines I am returning from officiating (continued on page 30) christmas 2012 |
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By BISHOP NEAL J. BUCKON
MCCW-Worldwide Holds Conference In Saint Louis
MCCW CONFERENCE ATTENDEES AND AMS CLERGY IN FRONT OF THE SHRINE OF ST. JOSEPH
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he Military Council of Catholic Women – Worldwide (MCCWWorldwide), 226 of their members, gathered in Saint Louis, Missouri, October 4 – 8, 2012, to hold their conference. They traveled from chapels on military installations located in six regions that span from Europe across the USA to Asia.
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rchbishop Timothy P. Broglio celebrated the conference’s opening Mass at the Basilica of St. Louis, King of France. This beautiful old church, founded by the Jesuits, was the first cathedral west of the Mississippi River at the time of its consecration in 1834. The Archbishop also celebrated the Sacred Liturgy the fol-
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lowing day and at the conclusion of the Mass he presented personal letters of gratitude to the outgoing Executive Board Members: Marcia Stokes, President; Erin Raymond, 1st Vice President; Beth Manning, 2nd Vice President; April Golden, Secretary; Elizabeth Tomlin, Financial Manager; and Lisa Miklos, Immediate Past President.
MCCW’S NEWLY ELECTED OFFICERS: L-R: ELIZABETH TOMLIN (2ND VICE-PRESIDENT), ERIN RAYMOND (PRESIDENT), BISHOP BUCKON (EPISCOPAL MODERATOR), APRIL GOLDEN (1ST VICE-PRESIDENT)
The MCCW-Worldwide is a Chapel Auxiliary of the US Army Chaplain Corps. Monsignor (MG) Donald L. Rutherford and the staff at the Army’s Office of the Chief of Chaplains provide MCCW the guidance and assistance needed to accomplish its mission. Its mission is to “reflect a visible presence of Christ in military communities by fostering and nourishing women in spirituality, leadership, and service. Inspired by the Holy Spirit, MCCW serves as a vital enhancement of the religious support mission of military chapels.” (MCCW Mission Statement) Monsignor (MAJ) Brian Donahue, MCCW-Worldwide Moderator / West Point; Father (COL) Gary Gross, Fort Shafter; Father (MAJ) Anthony Kazarnowicz, Fort Riley; and Father (CPT) Tom Kirchhoefer, Fort Lee; are all Army chaplains who concelebrated the opening Mass and assisted throughout the conference at the liturgies,
the regional meetings, and the breakout sessions. The theme for this year’s conference was “We are the Body.” It was taken from Romans 12:5, “So we, though many, are one body in Christ and individually many parts of one another.” Joyous charity, lively faith, spirited solidarity and new friendships characterized the four-day long gathering. I presided at the closing Mass at the beautiful Shrine of Saint Joseph. The church was built in 1843 and is the site of an authenticated miracle, the miracle of St. Peter Claver. During the Mass the newly elected officers of MCCW-Worldwide were installed into their leadership positions: Erin Raymond, President; April Golden, 1st Vice-President; and Elizabeth Tomlin, 2nd Vice-President. For additional information about MCCWWorldwide you can visit their website: http://mccw-worldwide.org/site2/. > christmas 2012 |
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By BISHOP F. RICHARD SPENCER
NO STRANGERS in this
YEAR OF FAITH
BACK ROW L-R: FATHER SABU MADATHIKUNNEL, BRUNNSUM CONTRACT PRIEST (INDIA), AIR FORCE CATHOLIC CHAPLAIN AF GEILENKIRCHEN, GERMANY (USA), FATHER (MAJ) MARTIN KING, BISHOP RICHARD SPENCER, ARCHDIOCESE FOR THE MILITARY SERVICES (USA), BISHOP REMIGIOSE, DIOCESE OF THAMARASSERRY, KERALA INDIA (INDIA), JOHN IJEOMA, ARMY CATHOLIC CHAPLAIN SHAPE, BELGIUM (NIGERIA, AND FATHER BENNY KARAKATTU, BRUNNSUM CONTRACT PRIEST (INDIA) FATHER (MAJ)). FRONT ROW L-R: ALTAR SERVERS: SETH AND LUKE BONEN-CLARK (USA)
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here are no strangers in the worldwide AMS family, just friends who have not yet met along the journey... but are hoping to do so in the New Evangelization during this “Year of Faith.”
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or five days in August, culminating with the Feast Day of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, I was once again blessed to represent our AMS Family in the annual Polish Military “Walk for Peace”. This is part of Poland’s traditional August pilgrimage to the famous Black Madonna, a sacred icon preserved at the historic shrine of Our Lady of Czestochowa, the Queen of Peace. An estimated 135,000 pilgrims of all ages—many of them carrying rosaries, crosses and hiking sticks — made the trek from hundreds of towns and cities all over Poland, some walking as long as ten days across the country’s largely flat terrain through thunderstorms, rain showers and intense summer heat, with villagers and church-keepers providing shelter, food and water along the way. The six-nation military delegation consisted of troops and clergy from Germany, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Ukraine, and U.S. Another highlight during August was my participation in the very first European “Rachel’s Vineyard Retreat” at Schönstatt, Germany. There, U.S. servicemen and women suffering shame and guilt over procuring an abortion had access to a new venue for healing and forgiveness. Members of both the U.S. Army and Air Force took part in the three-day retreat. They participated in group discussions and private counseling and used prayer as a way of coming to terms with complex and sometimes repressed emotions such as grief, loss and anger in a safe and confidential setting. In September, I was back in uniform as a U.S. Army Reserve Chaplain and was able to celebrate Mass in remote areas, such as a mountaintop “activity” in northeast Turkey, 7,025 feet above sea level, where the troops had gone without Mass since May. From there I was off to Kosovo for several days. Troops there, too, are currently without a resident Catholic military chaplain to serve their sacramental needs.
In early October, I presented a paper to a conference of the Institute for Religion and Peace at the National Defense Academy in Vienna, Austria. The International meeting of military bishops and chaplains studied and debated legal and ethical questions of the “Responsibility to Protect” (R2P). R2P is the legal framework that enables international intervention into areas of conflict. The main idea affirms a common obligation of nations to resist mass killing of innocent civilians by their own governments. A true joy for me was to participate in the annual conference of the Military Council of Catholic Women-Europe in mid-October. I conducted a spiritual seminar on how to enable MCCW-Europe to be relevant in today's culture. We addressed how to evangelize and transform our military culture and families by calling them back to their Christian roots during this “Year of Faith” as designated by the Holy Father. To do this, I led them through exercises in biblical strategy, vocabulary and vision by examining three words within the context of the Bible: URGENCY, BOLDNESS & SOLIDARITY. October was also another first for Europe as our beloved Knights of Columbus celebrated the very first Fourth Degree Exemplification in Europe. What a true honor for me to witness the faith journey of these men, now Fourth Degree Knights of the Father Timothy Vakoc Assembly, Europe. November finds me visiting U.S. military installations in Japan for Thanksgiving and celebrating the Sacrament of Confirmation for seven chapels. In December, I will be back in a military Chaplain’s uniform for Advent and Christmas visits with U.S. servicemen and women deployed to isolated locations in Afghanistan, Turkey and Kosovo. > christmas 2012 |
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By MARK T. MOITOZA, D.MIN. VICE CHANCELLOR FOR EVANGELIZATION
Evangelization through Social Networks
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he theme for the 47th celebration of World Communications Day has been announced by the Pontifical Council on Social Communications:
SOCIAL NETWORKS: PORTALS OF TRUTH AND FAITH; NEW SPACES FOR EVANGELIZATION
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he Vatican News website posted the report from Vatican Radio (September 29, 2012) noting that Pope Benedict XVI recognizes one of the most important challenges facing the task of evangelization today is that which is emerging from the digital environment. Since technology has become an integral part of daily life including relationships, dialogue, and the search for knowledge, the Vatican Radio report posed this question – “can technology help men and women meet Christ in faith?” This question demands reflection because it is far more than just a matter of posting Catholic answers or curating Catholic content already online. This methodology demands a praxis of engagement. Dynamic content that encourages dialogue, commenting, contemplation, and ultimately a deeper encounter are needed online. Presenting the Gospel as the answer to the basic human yearning for meaning and faith has become a vital need in the digital world. Social networks, like facebook or xt3.com (Christ in the Third Millennium), have dialogical and interactive forms of communication along with tools for building relationships. When truth and faith are introduced into these interactions the opportunities for evangelization are endless. In today’s world, young adults feel free to share their experiences online and engage with others through comments. The power of story enables people to both identify and share. Jesus frequently used stories to explain what God’s love was like (consider the Prodigal Son.) New spaces for Evangelization may be explored via the unique setting of online sharing. Throughout this Year of Faith Catholics are reminded to study the documents of the Second Vatican Council. Gadium et Spes, the Constitution on the Church in the Modern World, had not likely considered the future impact regarding the amount of time people would spend with a digital presence. It falls to these current generations to keep the Gospel alive through new methods that continue to support witness, sharing, dialogue, and conversion, all of which lead to the real presence of Jesus Christ in the Eucharist. The Holy Father’s Message for World Communication Day is traditionally published in conjunction with the Memorial of Saint Francis de Sales, patron of writers (January 24). World Communications Day is celebrated the Sunday prior to Pentecost (May 12, 2013). >
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By MARK T. MOITOZA, D.MIN. VICE CHANCELLOR FOR EVANGELIZATION
THE YEAR OF FAITH
ONLINE
elebrating the Year of Faith in this global archdiocese often means sharing the Gospel through a variety of digital resources. While opportunities for gathered celebrations, pilgrimages, and trainings do exist, there is never a time when a majority of the archdiocese is able to gather together in the same place, even in the same state. Through online connections, however, the opportunity to open the doors of faith is abundant.
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t each celebration of the Holy Mass, during the Liturgy of the Eucharist, all are reminded of our unity as we pray for the Holy Father, Pope Benedict XVI and our shepherd, Archbishop Timothy Broglio. Catholics in the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA connect through personal and communal prayer for those far from home, those in VA medical centers, those serving the U.S. government outside of the borders of the United States, and those many family members whose support sustains their loved ones pursuing the mission of security and peace. Throughout the Year of Faith there are new digital opportunities that reach everyone wherever he or she is called to serve. (The most exciting initiative is the introduction of a new “app”.) The free AMS Year of Faith “app” puts resources for the Year of Faith into the hands of all in the archdiocese. The “app” encourages spending time with the documents of the Second Vatican Council and the Catechism of the Catholic Church. It details how much the Catholic Church cares for the pastoral needs of those that defend their countries and promote freedom. Learn more about this free “app” by visiting the AMS website, www.milarch.org. The AMS has also developed a special Year of Faith section of the website. These webpages highlight resources, pilgrimages, prayers, and ongoing news. The image on the AMS Year of Faith prayer card, also on the AMS website, is a 4th century fresco found in the catacombs of Saints Peter and Marcellinus. It depicts the story of the woman, who, suffering from severe hemorrhaging, reached out to touch Jesus’ robes so that she might be healed. Jesus tells her, “Your faith has saved you.” Visit www.milarch.org/YearofFaith to keep informed throughout the year.
For evangelization and catechesis the archdiocese partnered with Lighthouse Catholic Media. Through this initiative military Catholic faith communities will receive sign-up packages to encourage the Military Download of the Month Club. Those that sign up will receive nine free mp3 Catholic presentations. These talks allow for individuals to grow in faith in a non-gathered setting. Learn more about these resources and the promotion packet at www.milarch.org/MDMCkit. To expand knowledge of the faith the archdiocese has partnered with CatholicQuiz.com to provide online quizzes about the Catholic faith. Military installations will be able to challenge one another to see who knows more. Each month the installations with the highest scores will be highlighted on the AMS website. Quizzes provide direct links to answers in the Bible or the Catechism. Some installations are using this resource to create live Catholic game shows and ‘Stump the Priest’ sessions by asking questions and finding out who knows the answers. Visit www.milarch.org/CatholicQuiz to learn more. Young adult ministry remains a priority of this archdiocese. Encouraging active duty young adults to encounter Christ and share their gifts is the responsibility of all Catholics. To support those efforts the archdiocese recommends an online subscription to Young Adult Ministry in a Box. This toolkit, developed by Catholic young adult ministry leaders around the country, offers planning resources, outreach initiatives, ministry mentors, and new ideas every week. Find step-bystep strategies, planning guides, and liturgical resources that speak to the particular pastoral needs of young adults, such as for Ash Wednesday. Learn more and subscribe at http://www.youngadultministryinabox.com. (continued on page 30) christmas 2012 |
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By MARK T. MOITOZA, D.MIN.
Opening the Door of Faith: A Book Review
This article originally appeared in the September 2012 eNewsletter of the National Catholic Young Adult Ministry Association. Mark serves on the Executive Board of NCYAMA as the Vice Chair for Networking.
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ope Benedict XVI announced a Year of Faith. It began on October 11th marking
the fiftieth anniversary of the beginning of the Second Vatican Council and the twentieth anniversary of the publication of the Catechism of the Catholic Church. In the Porta Fidei (Door of Faith), announcing this year, the Holy Father wrote: Evidently, knowledge of the content of faith is essential for giving one’s own assent, that is to say for adhering fully with intellect and will to what the Church proposes. Knowledge of faith opens a door into the fullness of the saving mystery revealed by God. The giving of assent implies that, when we believe, we freely accept the whole mystery of faith, because the guarantor of its truth is God who reveals himself and allows us to know his mystery of love. [18 – Porta Fidei]
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he Porta Fidei encourages all of us to understand better the Catholic faith not only for ourselves but so that we may also live and share what we believe with others. If you have never read the documents of Vatican II you might consider a helpful guide as an introduction. Thankfully, Edward P. Hahnenberg has written, A Concise Guide to the Documents of Vatican II, St. Anthony Messenger Press, Cincinnati, Ohio, 2007. This book is so helpful because it is written with the intent that one also has a copy of the Vatican II documents in his or her hands. The documents of Vatican II have four constitutions, nine decrees, and three declarations. They are packed with rich texts that deserve our time and reflection. Hahnenberg artfully provides a brief history of the council sessions that took place from 1962-1965. His writings cover the major debates and those who influenced the discussions. What is really helpful, however, is the ‘Reading Guide’ in each chapter of his book that outlines the main theological issues, relationships, and topics. Bringing the documents to life today is found at the end of each chapter in the form of reflection questions that invite the reader to review particular sections of Vatican II. The questions provoke a response from the reader whether it is read individually, as part of a study group, or as a classroom text. Want to know more about what the Catholic Church has to say regarding the role of the laity, the ministry and life of priests, the church in the modern world, divine revelation, sacred liturgy, ecumenism, mass media, missionary activity, and more? Pick up a copy of Hahnenberg’s book and a copy of the documents of Vatican II. Read, reflect, and share with others. Your increased knowledge of faith will most certainly open a door into the fullness of the saving mystery revealed by God. > christmas 2012 |
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By TAYLOR HENRY, DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC AFFAIRS AND MEDIA RELATIONS, AMS
Father Capodanno’s
Courage, Fidelity, Service Extolled at Memorial Mass
STATEN ISLAND FRIENDS OF FATHER CAPODANNO LEFT-RIGHT: (4TH) ARCHBISHOP BROGILO (5TH) LORRAINE HOLMAN QUINN, NIECE (6TH) LINDA CAPODANNO SARGENT, NIECE.
— WASHINGTON, D.C. —
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n a homily televised live on EWTN the evening after Labor Day, Archbishop Timothy Broglio extolled the virtues of Vietnam War hero, Father Vincent R. Capdanno, M.M., calling on believers to “continue his Maryknoll missionary spirit, his Marine courage, and his absolute fidelity to his ministry as a priest in service to all!”
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taff in hand, His Excellency preached from the Presider’s Chair in the Crypt Church of the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception. The September 4 Memorial Mass marked the 45th anniversary of the U.S. Navy Chaplain’s death ministering to Marines in combat. It was the fifth annual Mass for the repose of his immortal soul since the Vatican proclaimed Father Capodanno a “Servant of God,” the first step toward beatification. Among the congregation of 400 were veterans who served with Father Capodanno, recipients of the Medal of Honor, Bronze Star, Purple Heart, and Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Silver Star. They remember the “grunt padre” as an inspiring role model and source of courage to the troops in the trenches. Col. Peter Hilgartner (USMC Ret.) was senior commander on the Que Son Valley battlefield where the 38-year-old priest died of 27 bullet wounds. “He served the men,” Col. Hilgartner recalls. “He would see a Marine and would stop and do something for him, and they started coming to him. The morale of my battalion was raised every time they saw him. I mean, he was like an angel flying through the air.” Father Capodanno is remembered with equal reverence off the battlefield. Tom Losgar was 12 and considering a religious vocation when he met the tall young priest at Queen of Peace Catholic Church in Arlington, N.J. He says Father Capodanno encouraged him, saying “how great it was to be a priest,” and “how exciting.” Father Capodanno’s niece, Lorraine Quinn, remembers her “nurturing uncle” as “a very warm, friendly, caring person who loved to be around kids.”
LEFT-RIGHT: ARCHBISHOP BROGLIO WITH COLONEL WALTER JOSEPH MARM, USA (RET) MEDAL OF HONOR RECIPIENT.
Even in death, the Servant of God casts hope, drawing supplications from those in need. Lt. Col. David Bolton (USA) of Stafford, Va., a single father of 11-year-old twin boys, has Lou Gherig’s disease. After watching a documentary on EWTN about Father Capodanno—The Grunt Padre in Vietnam—he came to the memorial Mass in his wheelchair, hoping to join the ranks of those who have experienced a miracle cure upon offering intercessory prayers to the “grunt padre”. They include a Vietnamese nun whose recovery from advanced cancer came without apparent medical explanation. In his televised homily, Archbishop Broglio commented on the Gospel (Luke 4:31-37), recounting how Jesus came to Capernaum to teach and heal. “Words and actions are the fabric which connects the entire Gospel,” the Archbishop observed. “He (Christ) wants to be heard and welcomed by each person, and by the whole person. Therefore, He speaks to his or her heart and also heals the body. His efficacy this evening is an intervention to liberation. (continued on page 30) christmas 2012 |
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By FATHER KERRY M. ABBOTT, OFM CONV.
The Holy Spirit is Working
POWERFULLY!
FATHER KERRY (CENTER) IS JOINED BY STUDENT CHRIS EAGER (LEFT) AND FATHER RAFAEL CAPÓ', SCH.P. (RIGHT) IN FRONT OF THE AMS DISPLAY AT THE 2012 FRANCISCAN UNIVERSITY OF STEUBENVILLE, OHIO VOCATION FAIR.
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s you read this article we are well into the Year of Faith, a “re-appreciation” of God’s salvific gifts in the life of the Church. Thanksgiving is on our mind, Advent is drawing to a close and we anticipate celebrating the Incarnation of our Lord at Christmas Masses. The days are shorter, but the Light of Christ is burning in our hearts, hearths and homes.
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am writing to you at the conclusion of the 2012 convention of the National Conference of Diocesan Vocation Directors (NCDVD) in late September in Oakland, Calif. Over 250 vocation directors, along with archbishops, bishops, seminary rectors, staff and exhibitors gathered to pray, learn and encourage one another in their ministries which have a profound impact on the present and future of Catholic sacramental ministry in America generally, and in our armed forces specifically. Thanks to the support of you our benefactors, the AMS Vocation Office was able to sponsor a display table in the exhibition hall which included our new AMS Vocation Office banner, brochures and information packets along with issues of SALUTE! Given that every year about 1/4 of the nation’s vocation directors are new, the visibility and relationship-building potential of the NCDVD convention is of inestimable value in thanking and educating these formators with regard to military ministry and the AMS Co-Sponsored Seminarian Program. It is inspiring to note that in 2012 we have 34 dioceses participating in the Co-Sponsored Seminarian Program, having added 12 new dioceses since 1 Jul 11!
As the global mission of the AMS becomes more apparent through our media, outreach and evangelization efforts, more experienced vocation directors share their positive experiences of the AMS and the various military chaplain candidate programs with their new colleagues. These vocation directors are then better equipped to answer when their bishops or discerning men have questions about co-sponsorship or military ministry; our AMS Vocation Office is remembered as a resource for them to obtain the answers they need. To my mind, that is exactly what the AMS Vocation Office should be... a resource providing spiritual companionship that supplies answers, prayerful assistance and awareness to those seeking to hear and respond to the voice of God, and those that assist them. During a keynote address to the convention His Eminence Donald Cardinal Wuerl, Archbishop of Washington, told us of his perception that a great wave of change had washed over our country in recent decades. Cardinal Wuerl went on to say that he believes the wave has receded, and it has left a land markedly changed from previous decades. It is a land that is increasingly secular in its public life, and this is reflected in a recent Pew Forum (continued on page 28) christmas 2012 |
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The Holy Spirit is Working POWERFULLY! (continued from page 27)
on Religion in Public Life survey that reports 1 in 4 respondents in the United States indicated that they have no religious affiliation. One could easily be discouraged by what we may perceive as a potential turning away from God and His Church. Yet remember that old adage, “When the going gets tough, the tough get going?” Later in the NCDVD convention I was astounded to hear that in a June 2012 survey by the Center for Applied Research in the Apostolate (CARA) over 1.5 million Catholic men and women who responded reported considering priestly and/or religious vocations at some point in their lives. That is a tremendous sign of the work of the Holy Spirit, and I believe should be received as an invitation to us now, during this Year of Faith in the midst of the New Evangelization, to realize that while the “going” toward God may be tough, the redemptive suffering of the “tough” (a.k.a. believers) is never too tough for those who trust in the Lord and are willing to embrace the journey! We are laboring to prepare our people, priests and religious to proclaim the hope and promise of the Gospel. If I have learned anything in these 17 months as your director of vocations (and I like to think I have learned something!), it is the FACT that the Holy Spirit is working powerfully, even in our increasingly secular society, in the lives of our brothers and sisters calling them to a sacramental vocation, whether that be marriage, priesthood and/or religious life. I know this is true; my calendar of appointments is proof enough for me. Cardinal Wuerl is certainly correct that we have seen a wave of change in our country, but for me there is another wave, more positive and hope-filled and it is from
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REVEREND ANDREW GARNER, VOCATION DIRECTOR, DIOCESE OF OWENSBORO
the living waters of baptism made visible in the lives of the women and men I am privileged to minister with as they seek to respond to the Lord’s call. When you read this article we will have celebrated our most recent AMS vocation discernment retreat at the Pontifical College Josephinum with over 20 men attending from every branch of the armed forces. We are publishing our first ever AMS Co-Sponsored Seminarian Program poster that we will distribute to our military faith communities so that you can see the fruits of your labors and contributions in the vineyard of vocations, and I will be taking our story “on the road” to the various priest-chaplain retreats conducted by each branch of the armed forces. Society may have changed, but what has not changed is the true freedom we experience in God, the truth of the Gospel and the need for all of us to stand in the light of Truth. Your prayers and support allow us to continue to serve those that serve us, and to assist in the education and formation of those who will be our future priests, the vanguard of timeless and changeless Truth! >
By FATHER JOHN KAUL
PRIEST CONTRACTORS
Alternatives To Active Duty Chaplaincy
OUR LADY OF COBRE PARISH CHOIR AT THE GUANTANAMO BAY CHAPEL CELEBRATING A MEMBER’S BIRTHDAY. LEFT TO RIGHT: MICHELLE ABELLA, FIL MARQUEZ, CAROL HURLEY, DJICKE G. CORPUZ, FATHER JOHN KAUL, JULIUS CAESAR S. LACAMORA, LINDA NASH, LOUVEL VELICARIA, BEA VELUZ, LUZ SORIANO, RONALD “ATO” ENCINARES, EVA OCASLA
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t is coming up on one year now since I took over the Contract Chaplain Coordinator’s Office from Father Jim Joslyn. What a fascinating view on the evolving military priesthood it has been!
When I joined the Navy in 1982 there were more than 700 uniformed priests on active duty in the armed forces. Today there are 242. The Army, Navy, Marine Corps and Air Force have each dealt with the decrement in their own fashion. The Air Force with the creation of GS (General Schedule) billets providing benefits and allowances to full time pastors in permanent positions, and the other services with hiring private small business contractors in the CCR (Central Contract Registry) on yearly contracts, some with additional option years attached, others one year at a time. These civilian opportunities for military ministry have proven attractive to many of our retired military priests and to civilian priests who, for any number of reasons, were unable to join the service chaplain corps, but felt called to ministry with the active duty sailors, soldiers, and airmen and their families. Today we have more than 300 full time and part time civilian priests ministering on military bases around the world including the recently filled vacancy at Diego Garcia—a remote island 600 miles south of India in the Arabian Sea—taken on by a priest with an adventurous spirit from the Diocese of Orlando, Father Luis Barrera-Hernandez, with the blessing of his bishop. Our milarch.org website under the Chancellor’s Office posts the current civilian priest positions being advertised by the armed forces. Interested clergy can gain access to the page by registering on the website, contacting me directly at jkaul@milarch.org or by phone: 912.576.1266. Any given day sees a dozen or so bases advertising for part time and full time priests mostly in the continental United States, but occasionally in other parts of the world. If you know a priest who would be interested, please have him contact us. We are committed to assisting the military services in their obligation to provide for the free exercise of religion for their members whether through recruitment to active duty or by other means they have adopted over the past few years. > christmas 2012 |
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The Summer “Break” at the marriage of my nephew Julian to his long-time girlfriend Ciara White. Frank would have enjoyed it immensely. As we approach the great seasons of Advent and Christmas I hope to complete pastoral visits to VA Medical Centers in Texas, Southern California and Nevada.
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The plans for Christmas are not firm. Regardless, I wish each of you the blessings of the season and pray that during this Year of Faith we may give thanks for the awesome gifts we have each received and that we renew our commitment to “follow the Star.” May God bless you. >
The Year of Faith Online
(continued from page 21)
Finally, each military installation is encouraged to show the “Catholicism” series during the Year of Faith. Word on Fire Ministries donated copies of the series to military installations throughout the archdiocese last February. In this amazing series Father Robert Barron poses this challenging statement, “If Jesus is who he says he is, then that demands a response.” These fantastic DVDs help all to respond to the gift of faith. Not just by saying thank you but by loving Christ enough to share the gift of faith with others. Visit www.milarch.org/yofcatholicism for information about the series and take home reflection sheets created for the military. While the entire archdiocese may not be able to gather physically, we have the gift of faith that helps us connect through every celebration of the Eucharist. These digital resources also help us to connect through prayer. Know that whenever these online resources are used others in the archdiocese, no matter where in the world they serve, are also able to digitally and personally encounter the Catholic faith. May God bless all in the archdiocese as this year is spent unpacking the meaning of faith and may the doors of faith be opened again for all of the faithful. >
Father Capodanno’s Courage, Fidelity, Service Extolled at Memorial Mass The first liberation is always from sin. We see the Lord in combat: face to face with the enemy. Satan speaks in revelation about the identity of Jesus Christ, but he is powerless before Him.” Archbishop Broglio pointed out, “It is
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clear that the devil must go when the Lord commands. We who follow Him also experience the power of His word. Father Capodanno obviously experienced it. Otherwise, we would not be here this evening.” >
Save the Date 19th Annual Memorial Mass 19 May 2013
By MONSIGNOR FRANK A. PUGLIESE
CHRISTMAS AT SEA
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hristmas at sea brings an incredible feeling that all is right with the world! That is the way I remember Christmas as a Navy chaplain. It began weeks before as cards and packages were delivered from the families. It continued through choir rehearsals and did not end until well after the New Year.
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hristmas Eve began with an evening Mass aboard ship. It was—as in all civilian parishes—packed with Sailors and Marines that came because it was Christmas. The familiar carols, which had been sung for so many Christmases before, were sung this night with the gusto and beauty of a choir of intense believers. The familiar Christmas crib was a sign of hope, a sign of peace, and a sign of home for these men and women so far from home on this Christmas. After that Mass, I went by small boat to another ship – one which did not have a priest on board – one on which Mass had not been celebrated for a long time. (This is an even more frequent occurrence now because of the severe shortage of priests in then Navy.) I was met by the Catholic Lay Leader, brought to dinner with the crew, after which, I sat hearing confessions for a very long time before the Christmas Mass at Midnight. This crew, like the one on my home ship celebrated that Mass with the beauty unrivaled even in a magnificent cathedral. The next morning, I returned to the small boat for Christmas Mass on two other ships at sea before returning home for a final, packed Christmas evening Mass. Each one of those Christmas Masses was so special that I carry that feeling with me every year that I celebrate Christmas no matter where I am. In the midst of conflict, this was a time of peace. In the midst of discord, this was a time of friendship. There were no enemies that day aboard those ships. The loneliness of separation, though felt deeply, was overcome by the closeness of a crew bathed in the love and peace of the Christ child. That day, they prayed for peace on the ship
and in the world, and even for the enemy. On that day, when they sent emails to their families – there was still not adequate phone connectivity – they were able not only to receive love and peace from them, but also to share the love and peace of those ships with their families so far away. I will never forget the Marine who asked, “Father, why can’t every day be like Christmas.” I hope it can. This Year of Faith is an opportunity for us to know our faith better and to come to love God more so that we can be a people that shows the world that God is love – that God is peace. Much has been written in these pages of SALUTE in the last two issues about the Year of Faith. I would like to encourage all of you to take advantage of the opportunities beginning right now. You could take advantage of anything that is happening in the Archdiocese for the Military Services (cf. www.milarch.org) or in your local parish, or read about the Catholic faith, whether it be a document of Vatican II or a section of the Catechism of the Catholic Church, or the United States Catechism for Adults. You could volunteer in the parish or invite a friend to Mass, or talk to someone about your faith. I would encourage you to see the movie, Last Ounce of Courage, with Marshall Teague, Jennifer O’Neill and Fred Williamson, which tells the story of a father’s fight to stop the elimination of Christmas. There is so much you can do. But do something to take advantage of the opportunities of this Year of Faith and do it in time to make your Christmas a time of peace and love that you never want to see end. > christmas 2012 |
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PERMIT NO 60 FARMINGDALE, NY 11735
PAID
NON-PROFIT ORG. US POSTAGE
— Archbishop Timothy P. Broglio
I wish you and all your loved ones the joy and peace proclaimed by the Angels at Bethlehem and longed for by all men and women of good will!
“Serving Those Who Serve”
P.O. Box 4469 Washington, DC 20017-0469
Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA