September Issue 2009

Winner of 2009 international award for ‘general excellence’

VISION TheNew

of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Tucson

Volume IV - Number X September 2009 • $15 per year • Tucson, Arizona Visit www.newvisiononline.org

‘Planting seeds’

Juveniles’ crimes nipped in the bud at Santa Catalina

By BERN ZOVISTOSKI The New Vision

A farewell to ‘Father Max’ Father Max Hottle, O.F.M., who is leaving his service to the Tohono O’odham Nation at San Solano Missions Parish in Topawa, proudly displays a traditional Tohono basket with his name woven into it – one of the gifts he received at a farewell party where he was joined by Bishop Gerald F. Kicanas and Ned Norris, chairman of the nation’s tribal government. See story, other photos on Page 12.

Members of 3 Tucson parishes see ‘Holy Ground’ in cyberspace

By BERN ZOVISTOSKI The New Vision Virtue is the goal, and a virtual Catholic community is the means to that goal.

A Website titled “Holy Ground, Common Ground” has been established by members of three parishes in the Diocese of Tucson as an “evolving resource site” for parishes throughout the diocese.

The Website, http://holygroundcommondground.blogspot.com, describes itself as a “Care for Creation” resource that “can take us a step deeper in how we live our faith.”

The “team” involved in the effort consists of Katie Hirschboeck of Our Mother of Sorrows Parish, Guilio and Joan Grecchi of St. Cyril Parish and Mike and Theresa

Crimmins of St. Pius X Parish.

“The goal…is to invite, stimulate and sustain a ‘Care for Creation’ awakening – in both spirit and practice – at multiple levels in the parish,” Hirschboeck said.

“The desired outcome…is a gradual transformation and conversion of the parish into a prayerful, environmentally sensitive and committed community that serves as a loving witness to the gift of God’s Creation, and an advocate of sustainable practices that will protect this gift for future generations.”

The team cites the recent invitation of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops to take the St. Francis Pledge to Care for Creation and the Poor, as described in the See CARE, page 18

2009 Annual Catholic Appeal succeeds

— Page 8

The boys and girls are misdemeanor offenders – shoplifters, graffiti-scribblers and the like – but they don’t go before a juvenile court judge, and no “punishment” is meted out.

Something else - more meaningful and often surprising – happens to them in a meeting hall at Santa Catalina Parish, north of Tucson.

There, accompanied by his or her parents, each offender sits face-to-face with the “victim” or the victim’s liaison, and takes part in a “diversion program” operated by volunteers as part of the Community Justice Board Program established by Pima County Attorney Barbara LaWall.

“We’re planting seeds,” said Michael Burns, supervisor of the county’s Community Justice Unit and a member of Sts. Peter and Paul Parish.

If the seeds take root, he indicated, the juveniles who pass through the program, first or second offenders, will turn away from a potential life of crime, learning a lesson or two along the way.

Mike Bubla, a Santa Catalina parishioner who chairs one of two Community Justice Boards that operate at the parish, said “our focus is on the child…and the key to the program is the parents are right there.”

Adds Doug Armstrong, who chairs the Oro Valley Community Justice Board that is also housed at Santa Catalina: “It’s not a punishment session.”

Valarie Valencia, a member of St. Mark Parish who serves as a volunteer coordinator between the boards and the county, said “many wonderful things” are occurring under the diversion program.

Mike Bubla

Doug Armstrong

Michael Burns

Valarie Valencia

“The whole purpose is to get to these juveniles fast enough, before they get to the point of needing to be placed in a correctional facility, where their hopes and dreams are diminished and they find their lives ruined as they become lifetime prisoners of their own mistakes.”

When the successful participants reach age 18, their cases can be expunged, Burns said, and “the stigma is removed.” There will be no conviction on a juveniles’ record, he said, even though the arrest record itself will remain.

“This is something you leave behind,” Burns said, referring to the run-in with the law.

Some of the juvenile offenses that have See JUVENILES, page 9

Clothes of homeless men dry on the line at Poverello House, founded by Brother David Buer, OFM, shown at left.

Poverello House:

A place to call ‘home’ Poverello House has been open in Tucson for nine months now, serving an average of about 12 homeless men a day who come for a one-day-a-week respite, to take a shower, wash their clothes, have a bite to eat and relax with a book, newspaper or a TV show.

The house is located at 221 E. Lee Street in Tucson.

Paul Geen was a regular guest, coming each Wednesday from the day Poverello House opened in October 2008 until the day he suddenly died at St. Mary’s Hospital on Good Friday.

Brother David Buer, OFM, founder of Poverello House, first met Paul in the winter of 2007 on the nightly “Soup Patrol,” a winter outreach ministry to the homeless now coordinated by Most Holy Trinity Parishes’ Mathew 25 ministries that brings soup, hot chocolate and blankets to six or seven sites in Tucson.

Paul was the camp organizer for those sleeping between the railroad tracks and Estevan Park. He would spread the word to others camping nearby that the Soup Patrol would be coming and there would be 5 to 10 folks there when the van came by at the end of the evening run.

When word about the beginning of Poverello House began to spread, Paul was the most excited about it. And once Poverello opened, he came regularly, telling Brother David that Poverello House was the one place where he could come inside, off of the streets, and feel comfortable.

Shortly before he died, he wrote an article about Poverello House that gave voice to the sentiments of many of the men who

2

are now regular visitors there.

Paul wrote: “Brother Dave has done it again! Ever the champion for the homeless and disenfranchised people of Tucson, he has opened a ‘hospitality’ house for us ‘houseless’ men right here in Tucson. We now have a place to call ‘home’ one day a week for a lucky 50 to 60 men [a week] who really deserve a place to come to eat, do laundry and shower.

“The Poverello House not only enables us to clean our clothes and bodies once a week but allows us to feel somewhat normal for a day. We can eat our fill of nutritious food that is provided. We can take a nap, watch TV or read a book, magazine or paper inside with all the comforts of ‘home.’ This provides us with an essential way of relaxing, planning and generally gathering our thoughts in a secure, encouraging environment. “ What can you do to help? Poverello House costs about $2,500 a month to operate, with funds needed to pay the rent, utilities, supplies and food. The Poverello House Advisory Board is ready to apply for any grants that this ministry may qualify for and is ready to schedule Brother David to make an appeal at your parish.

Volunteers are also solicited to be present when the house is open, Wednesday through Sunday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Tax-exempt donations can be made to Franciscan Ministries, Inc. If you can help, please contact Brother David Buer, OFM, San Xavier Mission, 1950 W. San Xavier Rd., Tucson, AZ 85746.

THE NEW VISION - LA NUEVA VISIÓN OF THE ROMAN CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF TUCSON • WWW.NEWVISIONONLINE.ORG • SEPTEMBER 2009

FROM THE BISHOP

Church has role in health care Currently, our nation is embroiled in a debate about health care reform.

Embroiled is a good description, because at times the discussion has become heated, which is understandable since peoples’ health and wellbeing and that of their families are important to them. They are rightly concerned.

Two things have struck me about this debate: how contentious it has been at times and how the role of the Catholic Church in the debate is being perceived by some.

First, the contentious nature of the debate.

Over the past several years, some have raised concern that our conversations and interactions on important issues have lacked civility.

This is all too apparent in the debate on health care reform. In asserting their positions, some have gone to extremes that are more personal attacks rather than expressions of opinion.

The tenor of some of the town hall meetings about health care reform and the content of blogs and e-mails about the issues have been, at times, rude, offensive and downright nasty.

It is inevitable that in the complex world in which we live there will be disagreements, but it concerns me that some are resorting to tactics that are destructive and unhelpful. They ought to voice their opinions, but always with respect for the other person.

The extremes that we are witnessing in the health care reform debate should not deter us from finding appropriate ways to express our viewpoints or inhibit our contributions to the national discussion.

This holds true for our Church as well.

Unfortunately, some of the misinformation about health care reform has been directed at the Catholic bishops in our nation and at Catholic institutions that are involved in health care.

I am hearing and reading that the bishops and Catholic health care institutions aren’t saying enough – that they are “soft” on abortion and euthanasia – while others are saying that the Church has no business saying anything at all.

Clearly, our Church should be involved in the health care debate.

Involvement is part of living out our faithful citizenship.

The Catholic Church is one of the biggest providers of health care in our nation. Care for the sick, insured or not, has been an essential part of the Church’s mission and will continue to be. We bring that commitment and experience to the health care debate.

So, our Church has the right, the responsibility and expertise to be involved in the debate.

The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops is actively participating in the give and take by raising four critical concerns that any new legislation should address.

First, in a statement this past July 17, the Conference reiterated its support for universal health care coverage that is affordable for all. People ought not to be deprived of access to health care insurance because they are poor, indigent, a legal immigrant, or out of work. “In our Catholic tradition, health care is a basic human right,” the statement said.

While some raise concern about the cost of universal coverage, the

la iglesia desempeña un papel en el sistema de salud

Our nation speaks forcibly about individual rights, but the exercise of those rights ought not to force someone to act against their conscience.

Nuestra nación habla con firmeza acerca de los derechos de los individuos, pero el ejercicio de esos derechos por parte del individuo no deberÌa forzar a otro a actuar en contra de su conciencia.

En estos dÌas, nuestra nación está envuelta en un confl ictivo debate acerca de la reforma del sistema de salud.

Confl ictivo es una buena descripción porque, a veces, la discusión se torna acalorada, lo cual es entendible dado que el bienestar y la salud de las personas y sus familias son importantes para todos. Están justamente preocupados por esto.

Dos cosas me han llamado la atención acerca de este debate: cuan polémico ha sido a veces y cómo algunos perciben el papel de la Iglesia Católica en el debate.

Primero, la naturaleza polémica del debate.

Durante los últimos años, ha aumentado la preocupación de que a nuestras conversaciones e interacciones, en asuntos importantes, les ha faltado civilidad. Esto es muy aparente en el debate sobre la reforma del sistema de salud. Por reivindicar sus posiciones, algunos se han ido a tales extremos que tienen más de ataques personales que de expresiones de opinión.

El tono de algunas de las reuniones llevadas acabo a nivel público acerca de este debate, el contenido de alguno de los blogs y correos electrónicos acerca de asuntos de interés general ha sido, a veces, rudo, ofensivo y totalmente grosero.

Es inevitable que en el complejo mundo en el que vivimos haya desacuerdos, pero me preocupa que algunos estén recurriendo a tácticas que son destructivas y no sirven de nada. Todos deberían expresar sus opiniones, pero siempre con respeto por la otra persona.

Los extremos que estamos presenciando en el debate por el sistema de salud, no deberían impedir que halláramos maneras apropiadas de expresar nuestros puntos de vista o inhibir nuestras contribuciones a la discusión nacional.

Esto es verdad también para nuestra Iglesia.

Desafortunadamente, alguna de la desinformación acerca de la reforma del sistema de salud, ha sido dirigida a los obispos Católicos de nuestra nación y a las instituciones Católicas que están vinculadas de alguna manera al sistema de salud.

Oigo que los obispos y las instituciones católicas para la salud no están diciendo lo suficiente – que son “blandas” en lo referente al aborto y a la eutanasia – mientras que otros dicen que a la Iglesia no le asiste derecho alguno y no debería decir nada.

Claramente, nuestra Iglesia debe ser parte del debate del sistema de salud. Esta participación es necesaria para vivir nuestra ciudadanía con fidelidad.

La Iglesia Católica es uno de los mayores proveedores de salud de nuestra nación. El cuidado de los enfermos, con o sin seguro médico, ha sido una parte esencial de la misión de la Iglesia y lo continuará siendo.

Nosotros aportamos ese compromiso y esa experiencia al debate sobre la salud.

Por lo tanto, nuestra Iglesia tiene el derecho, la experiencia y la responsabilidad de participar en el debate.

La Conferencia de Obispos Católicos de EE.UU. participa activa-

See BISHOP, page 4

• Managing Editor: Bern Zovistoski Phone: 520-792-3410; Ext. 1062 Fax 520-838-2599 bernz@diocesetucson.org • Graphic Designer: Omar Rodríguez Ph: 520-792-3410; Ext. 1063 omarr@diocesetucson.org

• Editor and Publisher: Most Rev. Gerald F. Kicanas

• La Nueva Visión Contributing Editor Team: José Luis González, Angel Martínez, Rubén Daválos

• Proofreading: Sister Rina Cappellazzo, Martha Jordan • Advertising: Claudia Borders Phone: 520-298-1265 Voice mail: 520-298-1265 borders.c@att.net Rubén Daválos Phone: 520-990-9225 or 520-548-0502 davalosjr@cox.net • Printer: Signature Offset Phone: 505-525-9675

Mirar OBISPO, página 4

• The New Vision mailing address: 111 S. Church Ave. Tucson, AZ 85702 • Vision Web site: www.newvisiononline.org • Advisory Board: Bishop Gerald F. Kicanas, Fr. Al Schifano, Sister Rina Cappellazzo, Fr. John Arnold, Fr. Michael Bucciarelli, Bob Scala, Lee Oser, Fr. Bart Hutcherson, O.P.

Winner of 2009 international award for ‘general excellence’

SEPTEMBER 2009 • THE NEW VISION - LA NUEVA VISIÓN OF THE ROMAN CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF TUCSON • WWW.NEWVISIONONLINE.ORG

3

BISHOP continued from page 3

OBISPO continua de página 3

Church will continue to prod and push for reform that finds a way to provide health insurance for all. A society has responsibility to be responsive to those who are on the margins; after all, they share in our common humanity. Respect for human life includes preserving the lives of those who require medical treatment at all stages of life.

Second, the Church encourages restraining costs of health care and applying the cost of health care reform equitably across those who are payers.

Third, the Church continues to argue against including in any health care legislation provisions that loosen restrictions on government funding of abortion.

Since 1976, through the Hyde Amendment, the Federal Government has restricted the use of government money for abortion. The removal of such restrictions will jeopardize any support the Church could lend to health care reform legislation.

The Church teaches that abortion is intrinsically evil, never justified nor permitted.

The Church cannot support legislation that would provide even greater access to abortions. President Barack Obama has indicated that he wants to work to reduce the number of abortions, a goal that we wholeheartedly support. Providing government funding for abortion is not a way to realize that goal.

The Church urges that any bill passed and put into law should be “abortion neutral,” retaining federal policies in place for a long time that prevents government promotion of abortion.

Finally, the Church argues that any health care reform should include a right of conscience so that no one will be asked to do something that goes against a person’s conscience and the morals and values that define a person’s life.

Our country has always upheld and honored those who do not compromise their values and who courageously stand up for what they believe. Our nation speaks forcibly about individual rights, but the exercise of those rights ought not to force someone to act against their conscience. Catholic hospitals and the people who work for them should not be forced to provide services that they object to on moral grounds.

This right of conscience for health care providers has been respected by Congress, which for decades has respected the right of doctors and others in health care to decline involvement in abortion or abortion referrals, without exception. This should not be changed or modified.

The Church will continue to monitor and participate in this debate on health care, and I hope you will as well.

Take the time to read what is being proposed, study the legislation and then make your voice heard. Let’s make our contributions constructive and not destructive, civil and not demeaning of others.

For more about the Church’s positions on health care reform, visit www.usccb.org/ prolife/issues/healthcare/index.shtml and www.usccb.org/healthcare.

mente en el intercambio trayendo a la mesa cuatro inquietudes que toda legislación debe atender.

Primero, este pasado 17 de Julio, la Conferencia reiteró en un comunicado su apoyo ar un seguro de salud de cobertura universal al alcance de todos. No se debería privar a la gente de acceso a un seguro de salud por ser pobres, indigentes, inmigrantes legales o por haberse quedado sin trabajo. El comunicado agrega, “En nuestra tradición católica, la salud es un derecho humano básico”.

Mientras que algunos se preocupan por el costo de la cobertura universal, la Iglesia va a continuar empujando e insistiendo en una reforma que identifique una manera de proveer seguro médico para todos. La sociedad tiene la responsabilidad de atender las necesidades de aquellos que están marginados; después de todo, ellos forman parte de nuestra humanidad común. El respeto por la vida humana incluye preservar la vida de aquellos que requieren tratamiento médico en cualquiera de las etapas de la vida.

Segundo, la Iglesia fomenta el control de los costos del sistema de salud y la distribución de ese costo de salud equitativamente entre quienes pagan por los servicios.

Tercero, la Iglesia continúa argumentando en contra de incluir en cualquier legislación de salud provisiones que debiliten las restricciones del gobierno de proveer fondos para abortos.

Desde 1976, por medio de la Enmienda Hyde, el gobierno federal ha restringido el uso de fondos del gobierno para los abortos. La remoción de tales restricciones pondrá en peligro el apoyo que la Iglesia podría prestar a la legislación para la reforma del sistema de salud.

La Iglesia enseña que el aborto es intrínsecamente maligno, nunca justificado ni permitido. La Iglesia no puede apoyar legislación que proveería incluso un acceso más amplio al aborto. El Presidente Barack Obama ha indicado que Èl quiere trabajar para reducir el número de abortos, un objetivo que nosotros apoyamos plenamente. Pero proveer fondos del gobierno para realizar abortos no es la manera de lograr ese objetivo.

La Iglesia urge que cualquier proyecto de ley que se apruebe y se convierta en ley debe ser neutro en lo tocante al aborto, reteniendo en su lugar por un largo tiempo las normas federales que previenen la promoción del aborto por parte del gobierno.

Finalmente, la Iglesia argumenta que cualquier reforma al sistema de salud debe incluir un derecho de conciencia para que a nadie se le pida que haga algo que vaya en contra de su conciencia y de la moral y los valores que definen la vida de una persona.

Oímos muchas cosas acerca de los derechos individuales, y esos derechos deben ser protegidos, honrados y reconocidos.

No obstante, junto a los derechos de una persona están los derechos de las demás personas, que también necesitan ser honrados y respetados.

Nuestro país siempre ha defendido y honrado a quienes defienden sus valores y hacen valer sus derechos e ideales con convicción. Nuestra nación habla con firmeza acerca de los derechos de los individuos, pero el ejercicio de esos derechos por parte un individuo no debe forzar a otro individuo a actuar en contra de su conciencia. Ni los hospitales católicos ni el personal que trabaja en ellos deben verse forzados a proveer servicios a los cuales objetan por razones morales.

Este derecho de conciencia de los proveedores de servicios para la salud ha sido respetado por el Congreso que por décadas ha respetado los derechos de los médicos y de otros trabajadores del ·mbito de la medicina, sin excepción, a rehusarse a participar en abortos o a referir servicios de abortos. Esto no debe cambiar ni modificarse.

La Iglesia continuar· participando y observando este debate del sistema de salud. Y espero que usted también lo haga.

Tómese el tiempo para leer las propuestas, estudie la legislación y haga oír su voz.

Hagamos nuestras contribuciones constructivas y no destructivas, corteses y sin rebajar a los dem·s.

Para obtener más información acerca de la posición de la Iglesia en la reforma del sistema de salud, visite: www.usccb.org/prolife/issues/healthcare/index.shtml and www.usccb.org/healthcare.

‘Knowing Jesus’

A day-long workshop for anyone interested in catechesis and adolescent ministries will be held in Guadalupe Hall at Most Holy Trinity Parish in Tucson on Saturday, Sept.

19, starting at 9 a.m.

Pastors, coordinators of youth ministry, directors of religious education, coordinators of confirmation preparation and members of ministry teams will participate.

The workshop will identify ways to promote discipleship toward a lifelong commitment to faithful living as well as promising practices that are making a real difference in adolescent catechesis.

Sponsoring the event is the Diocese of Tucson’s Office of Catechesis for Children, Youth and Families. For more information call Janet Towner at 520-838-2544 or email janett@diocesetucson.org.

4

THE NEW VISION - LA NUEVA VISIÓN OF THE ROMAN CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF TUCSON • WWW.NEWVISIONONLINE.ORG • SEPTEMBER 2009

Calendar

What makes a really great priest?

Bishop Gerald F. Kicanas September 2009

As a special feature of the Year for Priests, The New Vision is asking readers to share their views and answer this question: “What makes a really great priest?”

Some initial responses are offered here. Send us your own opinion. Write to The New Vision, P.O. Box 31, Tucson, AZ 85702, or email to bernz@diocesetucson.org.

During my many years of meeting with and working with many priests ever since I went to Catholic grade school, Catholic college, while in the U.S. Navy and in my professional life, I believe that a really great priest would exhibit the following qualities.

He would primarily exemplify holiness and friendliness in his ministerial profession and personal habits.

It is also very important for him to give thought-provoking and inspiring homilies based on the Sunday’s scripture and which are related to today’s society.

His sermons should be focused and be no longer than 10 minutes so that the parishioners can hopefully remember what is said and thereby inspire them to act according to the priest’s message.

The great parish priest should exhibit “servanthood” by occasionally visiting the sick members of his parish and being available for consultation with all parishioners.

Lastly, the parish priest should seek and carefully consider opinions and suggestions of concerned parishioners relating to the parish business affairs.

Martial H. Ledvina Retired judge Tucson *** The priests who come to mind when that question is raised are those who stand up and are visible when the laity look for direction. They speak out, loudly, firmly. They lead by example. Their duty to God is more important than being circumspect not to stir governmental waters or downtown waters.

Recently, fear of losing tax credits and the importance of adhering to national Bishops’ agendas have become the game plan.

Not so for the God-fearing priest.

He recognizes God’s law is first, foremost.

Madeline J. Kleman Tucson *** It is not a what, but a who. The priesthood is a call from God. A great priest is as one with God and he speaks God’s Truths fearlessly and never follows his own or the world’s agenda. When a man becomes a priest by his own calling, his priesthood is doomed to be mediocre and worldly. Only a truly Holy Priest can fill the laity’s hunger for God. His holiness will show in the priest’s demeanor, his words, his garments, and his reverence at Mass. His focus is on eternity, the salvation of souls and the Glory and Honor of God. I have been fortunate in encountering a few such great priests in my life.

Beatrice Gordon Nogales, AZ *** When I was about 6, my uncle was doing a remodeling job on my grandmother’s house. After some time of sawing and hammering going on upstairs, my mother and I who were downstairs heard a whan, then a tirade of expletives cascading down the stairs. I said, “Mom, Uncle Pete’s cussin’.” Mom nodded sheepishly. I said further, “But Mom, Uncle Pete’s a priest.” Mom just shrugged with embarrassment.

We then heard my uncle’s giant

Francisco Medina

• Weddings

6-foot-four, 325-pound form stomping down the wooden steps. Towering over me, he then got down on one knee, put his arm around me and said: “You know, Lonny, you’re absolutely right, and I’m so very sorry that you had to hear me cussin’, since I am supposed to always set a good example for others, especially kids. So I sincerely apologize; but you know, even though I am a priest, I am still a man, and when a man hits his thumb with a hammer, you never can tell what might come out of his mouth.

I’m sure that some day you’ll understand that, eh?”

Well that was 50 years ago, and I’ve come to understand that my uncle, Father Peter, now deceased, was and is the finest man and greatest priest I have ever been blessed to know.

1 6:00 P.M., St. Joseph Parish Board, St. Joseph 2 6:00 P.M., Confirmation, St. Philip, Payson 4 10:30 A.M., Mass, 75th Anniversary of the Minim Sisters in Santa Cruz County, Lourdes Catholic School 5 11:00 A.M., Mass, Tohono O’Odham Kokololodi Hemajkam, Miguel 5:00 P.M., Mass, San Cosme 6 5:00 P.M., Mass, Nogales, Sonora 8 12:00 P.M., Catholic Foundation Meeting 9 7:00 P.M., Presentation, Mass, St. Thomas More Newman Center 10-11 Keynote, Call to Holiness Conference, Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston 12 9:00 A.M., Diocesan Pastoral Council 13 4:00 P.M., Movimiento Familiar Cristiano Mass, Our Lady, Queen of All Saints 14-16 USCCB Meetings, Washington, DC 16-18 National Pastoral Life Center Board Meeting, New York 19 1:00 P.M., Immaculate Conception Board Meeting, Yuma Lonny L. McNavage 3:00 P.M. Yuma Catholic High School Board Meeting Kearny, AZ 20 2:00 P.M., Wedding Anniveraries’ Mass, St. Augustine Cathedral ***

21 10:30 A.M., Presbyteral Council Meeting I was taught that priests are the 22 7:30 A.M., Diocesan Finance Council representatives of Christ here on 23 10:00 A.M., Priests’ Day of Prayer, Redemptorist earth. What I know about Jesus: Renewal Center He is merciful, forgiving, humble, 6:00 P.M., Recently Ordained Mentoring, Redemptorist compassionate, and love (just to Renewal Center name a few attributes). He is NOT 24 7:30 A.M., Sexual Misconduct Review Board “scary”--someone to be afraid of or 10:00 A.M., The New Vision Editorial Board to be intimidated by. He is open and 3:00 P.M., USCCB Safe Environment Program Audit welcoming to all, and very approachConference able. He ate with sinners and is on 5:30 P.M., St. Thomas More Society Reception, Bishop’s the side of the suffering. A priest who Residence tries to emulate Jesus to the best of his 25 8:00 A.M., Department Directors’ Meeting abilities would make the ideal priest.

9:00 A.M., Pastoral Center Staff Meeting (And I think we ALL should be striv6:30 P.M., St. Augustine Catholic High School, Evening ing to emulate Jesus, not just priests!) of Appreciation 26 5:00 P.M., Mass, Pastor Installation, Fr. Peter Barbara Lynch Connolly, CSsP, Santa Catalina Parishioner of St. Pius and OMOS 27-28 USCCB and CCCB Meeting, Huntington, NY

30 Santa Fe Province Meeting, Albuquerque Have you ever been treated unfairly, received a speeding ticket, signed a contract without knowing what all the fine print said, or been overcharged for a repair...but didn’t seek the help of an attorney because of the cost? Or maybe you need to have your will drawn up for peace of mind and don’t know how to go about it? What if there was a service that gave you access to affordable, quality attorneys for these situations and more?

PRE -PAID L EGAL S ERVICES , I NC. is here, and that’s what we do! Pre-Paid Legal provides several plan options. For more information call, e-mail or visit the website below.

Photography

• Quinceñera

Pre-Paid Legal Services®, Inc. and subsidiaries

• Portraits

• One on one or group instruction

Photozbycisco@aol.com http://Photozbycisco.i8.com

PPD LISTED NYSE

Providing quality legal care for North America’s families since 1972 Individual, Group and Small Business Plans available

Se Habla Español

Phone: 520-869-1136 Testimonials available

George M. Rodriguez “Justice for All”

Independent Associate

520-977-4677

georgemrodriguez@prepaidlegal.com www.georgemrodriguez.buildlastingsuccess.com

SEPTEMBER 2009 • THE NEW VISION - LA NUEVA VISIÓN OF THE ROMAN CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF TUCSON • WWW.NEWVISIONONLINE.ORG

5

AROUND THE DIOCESE

Golf tournament to aid Santa Cruz

Alcoa supports San Miguel

The 4th annual Santa Cruz Parish Golf Tournament will be held on Saturday, Sept.

12, at the Randolph Golf Course, sponsored by the Santa Cruz Parish Knights of Columbus Father Bach-Brother Angel de Santa Cruz Council 14139.

A raffle will be held for a set of Callaway H-22 irons with FT-9 driver and 3-wood with a bag, the value totaling $1,730. Tickets are $5, or five for $20.

For more information, call Bob Valencia at 520-403-1541 or Mark Pride at 520-204Teens at St. rita in the Desert Parish at a fundraiser for their trip.

0940.

Pro-life meeting Every First Saturday of the month the pro-life community gathers to network, discuss and get involved in all aspects of the pro-life movement in Southern Arizona.

The meetings are held at 9 a.m. at 845 N. Main Ave in Tucson.

For more information, email Kelly at Kelly@kellycopeland.com or visit the Website Tucson4life.org.

Before the meeting, Adoration, Benediction, Rosary and Confession are offered from 7 to 8 a.m. and Mass begins at 8 a.m. for Fatima and pro-life devotions.

All religious services are held at Holy Family Parish at Main and University.

Celebrate marriage The Diocese of Tucson’s third annual Marriage Celebration will take place on Sept. 20 at 2 p.m. at St. Augustine Cathedral, and couples celebrating milestones – such as a 25th or a 50th anniversary – are welcome to attend.

Register by calling Sonya Guttierez at the Bishop’s Office at 520-792-3410, ext. 1023.

Questions? Call Grace Lohr in the Office of Worship at 520-792-3410, ext. 1012.

Thanks to the generosity of the Alcoa Foundation, San Miguel High School will once again be able to send a team of students to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Tucson to supply much-needed office support for the organization’s many projects and services.

The downturn in the economy has forced many non-profit organizations in Tucson to reduce their staff size, while the need for the services they provide is increasing.

Alcoa Foundation has awarded a grant to San Miguel High School to sponsor a fulltime internship at Big Brothers Big Sisters of Tucson.

“So many families are requesting a big brother or big sister for their children,” country to attend workshops, view exhib- says Big Brothers Big Sisters CEO Danielle its and listen to speakers, Hastings said.

Zaleski, “because they know that having “We are the only parish in the diocese a mentor can change how their children going this time,” she added. grow up in Tucson. The help we receive The parish youth group has been engaged from the San Miguel students is so imporin fundraising efforts to finance the trip. tant to the work we do. We are thrilled that Attendees provide their own airfare but Alcoa has once again stepped up to offer need about $400 each to pay expenses, this support.”

Hastings said.

This is the second year that Alcoa will be Hastings said she’d like to get the word sponsoring internships at Big Brothers Big out about the conference “so maybe more Sisters. will go from the diocese” in the future.

They’re goin’ to Kansas City...

A delegation of 14 teenagers from St. Rita in the Desert Parish in Vail will be attending the National Catholic Youth Conference in Kansas City on Nov. 19-21 for what one youth group advisor termed “a really wonderful experience.”

“They come back different, with a whole new outlook, it’s pretty amazing,” said Christine Hastings, who will chaperone the trip with Carolyn Reynolds of St. Rita.

The conference, held every other year, attracts up to 20,000 teens from around the

Pregnancy -loss session set

Cathedral open during renovation Renovation of the interior of St. Augustine Cathedral has begun, with the removal of some rear pews, but regularly scheduled Masses and special events such as weddings will continue to be celebrated.

Painting, stenciling and replacement of the pews are included in the project.

Grants available

The Catholic Campaign for Human Development has grants available to qualified programs.

The criteria include low-income control (50 percent low income control on project board), institutional change (addressing the root causes of poverty), leadership development (providing training and skills), organizational development (a

track record and on-going development) and financial capacity (indication of methods of financial support).

If you think your project qualifies, contact Joanne Welter at 520-792-3410 or email socialmission@diocesetucson.org.

The grant process is available online at www.usccb.org/cchd.

A Pregnancy Loss & Unresolved Grief Conference will be held on Friday, Nov. 6, from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. (half day option is available). The conference is open to priests, counselors, medical professionals, nurses, crisis pregnancy volunteers, social workers and laypeople.

Continuing Education Credits are available through the American Counseling Association. The event is sponsored

by Reachout Pregnancy Center, Rachel’s Vineyard Ministries and the Diocese of Tucson. For more information, go to www. reachoutforlife.org or call 520-321-4300.

Saint Joseph Construction 30 Years of experience Richard “Rick” Karasch Arizona Remodeling Contractor Since 1970 BA Public Administration, Univ. of Arizona All phases of remodeling, repair and maintenance: including carpentry, dry wall, painting , and roof coating.

6

520-444-7436 email: randf@comcast.net

Free eSTiMATeS! License numbers are ROC 59519B AND 45362 C-61

2716 S. Kolb Rd. (520) 790-4033 Monday – Friday 9:30 am – 6:30 pm.

Saturday 10:00 am – 6:30 pm

School’s back in session!

Treat yourself to some devotional time!

A directed Bible Study is a great way to learn more about our Lord’s great love for us!

Coupon expires September 30, 2009

www.frkinoscorner.com

Present this coupon for a 10% discount on your purchase! May not be combined with other offer or sales Some items not eligible for discount

THE NEW VISION - LA NUEVA VISIÓN OF THE ROMAN CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF TUCSON • WWW.NEWVISIONONLINE.ORG • SEPTEMBER 2009

AROUND THE DIOCESE

Sullivan steps up at Salpointe High Kay Sullivan has been named inter- tors, noted: “Sullivan has the leaderim Head of School of Salpointe Catholic ship skills and the understanding of what High School, succeeding Father Freder- it takes to lead parents, students, teachick J. Tillotson, O.Carm., who was recently ers and the community. Her dedication over the past number of years appointed president of Washis immeasurable and her grasp ington Theological Union, a of the key issues of school and graduate school of theology in community will provide stabilWashington, D.C. ity during this period.”

In her position as Director Sullivan has volunteered of Advancement of Salpointe extensively in Southern ArizoCatholic High School since na over the past 20 years, serv2001, Sullivan has worked ing on many boards. to sustain strong financial The Carmelite Order has and community support for KAY SulliVAN convened a search committhe school. A member of the tee comprised of representaschool’s leadership team, she is familiar with the various facets of the tives from the Carmelite Order, the board school’s operation. Her position has also of directors of the school, leadership team, provided her with the opportunity to work faculty and parents. This committee will closely with the Board of Directors of the recommend a candidate for the position of school and to provide assistance to the Head of School to the Board of Members Board in accomplishing long term strate- by June 2010.

Salpointe Catholic High School is a gic goals, particularly in the areas of financial assistance to needy students and the coeducational, college preparatory instiongoing renovation of the school’s facili- tution serving the diverse student population of Southern Arizona. It is located at ties.

Patricia Taylor, Lancer alumna and 1545 East Copper Street in Tucson. member of the Salpointe Board of Direc-

At graduate school Sister Veronica Loya, I.H.M., a teacher at Immaculate Heart Academy in Tucson, is shown with Laurie Zenter, a teacher at St. Paul’s Preparatory Academy, Phoenix; and Sister Patricia Earl, CSLP director, at an intensive two-week summer session at Marymount University in Arlington, Va., where the teachers are participating in the university’s on-line Master of Education in Catholic School Leadership Program. The program combines administration skills with an emphasis on Catholic values and identity.

The two-year program draws teachers from around the nation.

JMJ Jesus Mary Joseph Ministries

non-profit non-tax

Fr. Thomas Reeves, O.C.D.

Fr. Thomas Reeves, O.C.D.

spiritual director Holy land Pilgrimage Oct. 12 through Oct. 23, 2009

Passion Play

Fr. James Zakowicz, O.C.D. spiritual director May 9th - 20th, 2010

Eastern Europe with Oberammergau Tour including Krakow, Auscwitz, Czestochowa, Prague.

35 tickets left, deadline October 1st

Tours available 7 days a week

For the year of the Priesthood: Paris, Ars, Lourdes, Italy trip with Father Juan Carlos Aguirre

France Pilgrimage June 16th - July 1st, 2010

WWW.JMJMinistries.ORG 573-0065 or (800) 299-5708 Nebraska & 12th Ave. Tucson, AZ

read The New Vision ONliNe!

www.newvisiononline.org

AUGUST 2009 • THE NEW VISION - LA NUEVA VISIÓN OF THE ROMAN CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF TUCSON • WWW.NEWVISIONONLINE.ORG

7

From cafeteria, Catholics eye a new church of their own

For about two years, Catholics residing in the Copper Basin region, north of Florence, have been attending Mass each Saturday afternoon in the cafeteria at Copper Basin Elementary School, thanks to Father Charles Cloud, pastor of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Parish in Florence.

With the purchase of 18 acres of land, paid for with money donated

OUR FAITH, OUR HOPE, OUR FUTURE to the Diocese of Tucson’s renewal campaign, Father Cloud and his faithful followers are “excited about getting it going,” he said, referring to a real church.

“There was spontaneous applause,” Father Cloud said, when he announced the land purchase during a recent Mass at the cafeteria, which will continue to serve the

purpose for now. About 100 to 150 people attend regularly, he said.

A committee with “some expertise” has been established and held its first meeting on Aug. 22, Father Cloud said. A hall-type structure may be built first, then a more permanent church, he said.

Fundraising is crucial, Father Cloud said. All money contribut-

ed at the cafeteria Mass is being set aside for the new church, and some grocery stores in the region have programs where they donate part of whatever you spend toward the church fund, he said.

“We want to build as quickly as we can,” Father Cloud said. “It depends on the money, obviously.”

He said a golf tournament and a raffle are among the fundraiser ideas being considered.

Annual Catholic Appeal achieves 95 percent of its $3.4 million goal Despite their economic struggles during the current recession, parishioners in the Diocese of Tucson have generously donated nearly all of the money required to pay for another year’s work of the 26 charities and ministries that serve those in need throughout the diocese.

The 2009 Annual Catholic Appeal achieved almost Parish

Goal

Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary - Florence

$22,000.00

Blessed Kateri - Tucson

$8,200.00

8

95 percent of its goal of $3.4 million with pledges of $3.2 million.

Thirty-one parishes gave more than 100 percent of goal, and half of the money in excess of goal will be returned to the parishes.

The 26 spiritual, educational and human needs programs Donors

Pledge

Percent

200

$26,441

19

$4,397

supported by the appeal include services to families and children, victims of domestic violence, elderly and the poor and disabled, people in nursing homes, hospices and assisted-living centers, people in prison, people in parish religious education and religious formation programs, and teachers and others in the diocese’s 22 elementary and six high schools.

Parish

Goal

Donors

Pledge

Percent

120%

St. Augustine - Tucson

$66,500.00

187

$48,430

73%

54%

St. Bartholomew - San Manuel

$11,000.00

67

$11,100

101%

Blessed Sacrament - Mammoth

$8,500.00

28

$2,715

32%

St. Bernard - Pirtleville

$6,600.00

26

$4,942

75%

Corpus Christi - Tucson

$43,000.00

178

$56,630

132%

St. Christopher - Marana

$10,000.00

25

$4,762

48%

Holy Angels - Globe

$25,000.00

193

$35,565

142%

St. Cyril - Tucson

$104,000.00

208

$84,065

81%

Holy Cross - Morenci

$13,800.00

25

$5,745

42%

St. Elizabeth Ann Seton - Tucson

$150,000.00

939

$211,256

141%

Holy Family - Tucson

$17,000.00

29

$3,915

23%

St. Frances Cabrini - Tucson

$73,000.00

222

$90,655

124%

Immaculate Conception - Ajo

$11,600.00

87

$12,653

109%

St. Francis - Elfrida

$4,200.00

21

$6,085

145%

Immaculate Conception - Douglas

$18,000.00

100

$22,001

122%

St. Francis - Superior

$9,000.00

44

$5,260

58%

Immaculate Conception - Yuma

$92,000.00

425

$79,748

87%

St. Francis - Yuma

$126,000.00

217

$60,151

48%

Immaculate Heart of Mary - Somerton

$16,500.00

40

$6,405

39%

St. Francis de Sales - Tucson

$123,000.00

752

$127,586

104%

Infant Jesus - Kearny

$9,000.00

64

$10,465

116%

St. George - Apache Junction

$107,000.00

696

$98,062

92%

Korean Catholic Community - Tucson

$2,000.00

0

$0

0%

St. Gianna - Tucson

$2,500.00

50

$3,155

126%

Most Holy Nativity - Rio Rico

$18,000.00

93

$19,169

106%

St. Helen - Eloy

$17,000.00

80

$14,395

85%

Most Holy Trinity - Tucson

$72,000.00

251

$56,885

79%

St. Helen - Oracle

$10,000.00

53

$12,020

120%

Our Lady of Blessed Sacrament - Miami

$24,000.00

94

$15,385

64%

St. James - Coolidge

$19,000.00

64

$10,962

58%

Our Lady of Fatima - Tucson

$42,500.00

166

$39,031

92%

St. John - Tucson

$87,500.00

730

$57,923

66%

Our Lady of Grace - Maricopa

$12,000.00

81

$16,407

137%

St. John Neumann - Yuma

$38,000.00

427

$40,275

106%

Our Lady of Guadalupe - Solomon

$3,900.00

19

$3,373

86%

St. Joseph - Hayden

$7,500.00

42

$5,400

72%

Our Lady of La Vang - Tucson

$8,400.00

59

$9,227

110%

St. Joseph - Tucson

$90,000.00

206

$65,708

73%

Our Lady of Lourdes - Benson

$34,500.00

162

$37,873

110%

St. Joseph - Wellton

$6,900.00

14

$2,624

38%

Our Lady of the Mountains - Sierra Vista

$56,000.00

218

$45,980

82%

St. Jude - Pearce/Sunsites

$7,700.00

33

$11,491

149%

Our Lady of the Valley - Green Valley

$150,000.00

722

$140,762

94%

St. Jude - San Luis

$24,800.00

185

$29,840

120%

Our Lady Queen of All Saints - Tucson

$17,600.00

79

$12,924

73%

St. Luke - Douglas

$33,000.00

138

$24,268

74%

Our Mother of Sorrows - Tucson

$133,000.00

722

$127,622

96%

St. Margaret - Tucson

$28,000.00

112

$19,981

71%

Sacred Heart - Clifton

$13,000.00

75

$10,560

81%

St. Mark - Tucson

$66,000.00

206

$48,866

74%

Sacred Heart - Nogales

$41,000.00

69

$15,091

37%

St. Mary - Duncan

$13,000.00

1

$10

0%

Sacred Heart - Parker

$12,500.00

98

$7,247

58%

St. Mary of the Desert - Three Points

$2,500.00

1

$200

8%

Sacred Heart - Tombstone

$6,000.00

44

$5,219

87%

St. Monica - Tucson

$49,000.00

92

$15,113

31%

Sacred Heart - Tucson

$37,000.00

70

$12,600

34%

St. Odilia - Tucson

$98,000.00

340

$91,866

94%

Sacred Heart - Willcox

$12,500.00

55

$7,736

62%

St. Patrick - Bisbee

$18,000.00

98

$20,623

115%

San Carlos Mission - San Carlos

$3,900.00

27

$5,245

134%

St. Philip - Payson

$45,000.00

174

$27,697

62%

San Felipe de Jesus - Nogales

$25,000.00

285

$33,926

136%

St. Pius X - Tucson

$139,000.00

384

$109,394

79%

San Martin - Sahuarita

$25,000.00

174

$49,257

197%

St. Rita - Vail

$19,500.00

38

$8,880

46%

San Solano Missions - Sells

$3,000.00

4

$1,737

58%

St. Rose of Lima - Safford

$38,000.00

229

$41,876

110%

San Xavier - Tucson

$17,000.00

35

$15,544

91%

St. Theresa - Patagonia

$13,500.00

36

$7,883

58%

Santa Catalina - Tucson

$74,000.00

437

$75,632

102%

St. Thomas More - Tucson

$35,000.00

136

$36,480

104%

Santa Cruz - Tucson

$34,700.00

137

$23,705

68%

St. Thomas the Apostle - Tucson

$242,000.00

639

$392,942

162%

St. Ambrose - Tucson

$38,000.00

161

$39,565

104%

Sts. Peter and Paul - Tucson

$91,000.00

258

$78,737

87%

St. Andrew - Sierra Vista

$108,000.00

469

$122,097

113%

Anonymous Gifts

$0.00

334

$40,946

0%

St. Ann - Tubac

$17,000.00

83

$20,009

118%

St. Anthony - Casa Grande

$77,000.00

235

$36,947

48%

Totals

$3,434,800.00

15,016

$3,245,338

94%

THE NEW VISION - LA NUEVA VISIÓN OF THE ROMAN CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF TUCSON • WWW.NEWVISIONONLINE.ORG • SEPTEMBER 2009

Offenders, parents give program high ratings Parents of the juveniles – and the juveniles themselves – were asked to evaluate the Community Justice Board Program in which they participated at Santa Catalina parish.

Here is a sampling of comments.

Asked if they were pleased with the way they were treated by the board, and whether the consequences were appropriate for their offenses, three juveniles said “yes” to each question.

Completing the “consequence agreement,” said one, “really opened my eyes to how much I’ve grown and improved in this experience.”

Said another: “Writing the research papers (had the most impact) because it took a lot of time and I had to put a lot of thought into it but I learned a lot from it.”

JUVENILES continued from page 1

come before the boards were minor assault, causing criminal damage, possessing drug paraphernalia and, in one case, a “hate” crime.

Established about a year ago, the two boards operating at Santa Catalina Parish are among 19 functioning throughout Pima County, Burns said. They stem from LaWall’s belief not to just prosecute crimes but to proactively engage the community in the prevention of crime, he said.

When he and some other volunteers decided to set up the program at Santa Catalina, Bubla said, “we got so many volunteers we decided to establish two boards.”

Here’s how the process works: A juvenile offender and his family are invited to a conference with five board members, and they all sit around a table, with the offender facing the victim or the victim’s liaison, someone representing the views of the victim. The victim’s parents also attend.

The board members question both the offender and the victim, as well as their parents.

The discussion involves six “phases,” including accountability, social situation, physical and emotional health, school and

Another juvenile expressed similar thoughts: “The essay (had the most impact) because it illuminated how big of an impact shoplifting can have.”

The two juveniles who agreed on the impact of the process, when asked how they’d have handled their cases differently, also agreed on this response.

“I probably would have made myself do volunteer work or community service,” wrote one, while the other said, “I would have offered community service or volunteer work.”

How will their lives be different now?

“I hope I will stay out of trouble,” said one. “It has made me a better person, and more mature,” said the other.

Questionnaires completed by parents of juvenile offenders contained “yes” answers to every question on

peer pressures, hobbies and interests and, finally, the “initiative” phase, where both the offender and his or her parents are asked what they think would be an appropriate set of goals or assignments to repair the situation.

After the conference, the offender and his parents are asked to consider any additional information that might be useful and to report back to the board.

Following this series of steps, all voluntary on the part of the participants, the board asks the offender and his parents to sign a “consequence agreement” – in effect a contract spelling out the steps they’ll take in response to the offender’s action.

This may result in an additional meeting with the board, or more than one, until the contract is fulfilled.

The process includes an apology by the offender to the victim, and it’s not mailed in – the offender hand-delivers the apology to the victim and reads it aloud, in the company of a board member, “to repair the harm or injustice,” Bubla said.

The cases that come before the board involve children from “all social and economic backgrounds,” Bubla added.

In one case, two boys, 14 and 15, were charged with a hate crime for writing antiSemitic graffiti on a home. The father of

the form: Did the family conference address the offense properly? Did you feel comfortable facing the victim of the offense? Did you feel the needs of you and/or your child were properly addressed?

“Both children have become more conscientious and seem more aware of their attitudes,” said one parent.

“It was a very positive experience for them. They feel lucky to have been a part of this.”

Said another parent: “The board was very helpful and supportive. They were always full of ideas. I really enjoyed them… I think (my child) came in with a bad feeling about what was going to happen but changed his mind when he saw how helpful everyone was.”

the family who lived there faced the boys in conference, noting his parents had spent time in a concentration camp, and the mother of one of the offenders told her son in front of the board that her best friend was Jewish. The boys quickly saw the error of their ways, Burns said, and participated in a reparation program designed by the board.

In their experience so far, Bubla said, the offenders’ gender has been “50-50,” and sometimes siblings participated together in an offense. The boards receive new case referrals from juvenile court every two weeks or so, Bubla said.

Burns stressed that the Community Justice Board Program was still in its early stages but that participants’ evaluations so far were “complimentary” and “very good.”

Besides altering the viewpoint of an offender, the program serves as “an awakening to parents,” Valencia said. “The justice system can educate parents.”

In a broader sense, Burns said “we have to learn to talk with each other…we’ve got to bring that back. We need the spark of the faith communities.”

Said Burns: “The community connection is the biggest factor. We need more networking

with other organizations to let them know what we do and to encourage their participation.”

Some 60 percent of the cases involve trauma or psychological problems, he said, and immediate assistance from behavioral health experts and others would be a big help.

“We need to design a strategy” with organizations serving as “change agents” for the offenders, he said.

Volunteers with “moral values” are needed to be models for the kids’ behavior, Burns added. The volunteers are interviewed in depth and undergo a criminal background check, including fingerprinting.

Valencia said she’d love to see more parishes foster boards such as those at Santa Catalina. Her pastor at St. Mark, Father Liam Leahy, is a strong supporter of the program, which he describes as “a parochial diocesan community effort.”

To learn more, call Burns at 520-7405591 or write to Michael.burns@pcao. pima.gov.

“We need people who can give about eight hours a month, just two nights,” Burns said. “People who walk and talk in a positive way, creative thinkers, who believe that change can occur.”

Pancake House Family Restaurant

de ma o e ay m d Ho enu Sund M & y y l da tur On a S

2 pancakes, 1 egg, 1 bacon or sausage $1.95 • French toast, 1 egg, 2 pieces of bacon or sausage................................................$2.95 • 1 egg, bacon, ham or sausage...........$1.95 • 2 pancake, 1 egg, bacon, ham or sausage............................................$1.95 homefries and toast

•LUNCH SPECIAL M-F.....................$3.95

2532 S. KOLB • 747-7536

Open Mon-Sat, 6am-2pm; Sun, 7am-2pm

SEPTEMBER 2009 • THE NEW VISION - LA NUEVA VISIÓN OF THE ROMAN CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF TUCSON • WWW.NEWVISIONONLINE.ORG

9

At Catalina Mountain School Staff and residents of the Catalina Mountain School, a juvenile corrections facility, enjoyed a visit with Bishop Gerald F. Kicanas recently. Shown from left are Chaplain Therese Griffin, Cesar, Bishop Kicanas, Maurizio, and Officer Karin Clarke. Santa Catalina Parish has active volunteers who are involved with the school with religious services, catechism classes, educational tutors, art programs, mentorships and more. The school staff searches for positive activities to engage the resident youths, ages 13 to 18. The program at Catalina Mountain School operates independently from the Community Justice Board Program established at the parish in conjunction with the Pima County Attorney’s Office.

Introducing

Dominican Sisters of Peace a new congregation of Dominican Sisters founded Easter Sunday 2009 from the union of seven former congregations: Congregation of St. Rose of Lima (Oxford, MI) Dominican Sisters, Congregation of St. Mary (New Orleans, LA) Dominican Sisters, St. Mary of the Springs (Columbus, OH) Dominicans of St. Catharine (St. Catharine, KY) Dominican Sisters of Great Bend (Great Bend, KS) Sisters of St. Dominic of the Immaculate Heart of Mary (Akron, OH) and

Eucharistic Missionaries of St. Dominic (New Orleans, LA) serving the Tucson Diocese since 1939 Join us in celebrating our foundation as we continue to serve you – with some additional Sisters, some new ministries, and a new fire: Maria Teresa Apalategui, OP (social services) Rita Birzer, OP (retreat ministry) Esther Calderon, OP (health & prison ministries) Rose Marie Cummins, OP (detention center ministry) Luisa Derouen, OP (spiritual direction) Corina Padilla, OP (adult faith formation)

Preaching with a New Fire 10

THE NEW VISION - LA NUEVA VISIÓN OF THE ROMAN CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF TUCSON • WWW.NEWVISIONONLINE.ORG • SEPTEMBER 2009

The Arizona Tuition Tax Credit Program allows you to direct some of your

tax dollars to help children in our Catholic schools in Southern Arizona. Because you’re using money you would have to pay in taxes anyway, it really costs you nothing at all!

Make a contribution to CTSO before December 31st in any amount

up to the credit limits of $1000 for a couple filing jointly and $500 for an individual.

Then, whatever you contribute is applied as a tax credit on your state return.

You’ll get allof that contribution back up to the amount of your state tax liability.

Every dollar! You may also be able to claim a charitable deduction on your federal tax return. For more information, contact us at 520 8382558or any of the CTSO schools.

“With CTSO support, I have the best of both worlds: a spirituallybased Catholic education and a strong academic education. And that builds a better community.”  Daniel

✁

CTSO SUPPORT FORM Enclose this form with your check, postmarked by December 31,and mail to: CTSO, P.O. Box 14467, Tucson, Arizona 85732-4467 Taxpayer name(s) __________________________________________________

Amount of Check $ _________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________

Amount of Credit Card Payment $ _________________________________________

Address ________________________________________________________

Credit Card Number _________________________________________________

City ____________________________________ State___________________

❏ Visa ❏ MasterCard ❏ Discover ❏ American Express

Zip __________________ Phone (_______) ____________________________

Expiration Date ___________________________________________________

Email _________________________________________________________

Signature_______________________________________________________

Parish _________________________________________________________ ❏ I would like to recommend my contribution be given to the following school(s): _____________________________________________________________

You can also make a secure online contribution by visiting our web site at www.ctsotucson.org.

_____________________________________________________________

Be sure to ask if your employer has a matching gift program.Tax credit limits: $1,000 if filing jointly; $500 if filing individually. Tax credit may also qualify for federal deduction. ❏ PleaseSEPTEMBER use my contribution for the undesignated fund.- LA NUEVA VISIÓN OF THE ROMAN CATHOLIC 2009 • THE NEWgeneral VISION DIOCESE OF TUCSON • WWW.NEWVISIONONLINE.ORG SEP-VIS

11

YEAR FOR PRIESTS

Father Max Hottle accepts praise from Ned Norris.

Tohono O’odham bid ‘Father Max’ farewell

By BISHOP GERALD F. KICANAS A boy holds “thunder and lightning” poster…

…as girls display colorful rainbows.

A great blessing in our Diocese is our cultural diversity, and a wonderful part of that diversity was in evidence on Aug. 16 when I joined the people of San Solano Missions Parish in Topawa on the Tohono O’odham Reservation in saying farewell to their beloved pastor, Father Max Hottle, O.F.M. Having served the people there for 19 years, Father Hottle is leaving us for at least a year to pastor St. Francis de Paula Parish in Tularosa, New Mexico.

Father Max was greeted at St. Catherine Parish Hall by children who performed a special blessing dance complete with rainbows, thunder and lightning and birds in the sky.

It was beautiful!

Father Max and his successor, Father Ponchie, O.F.M., stood with me as Joseph Enos, a community elder of the Tohono O’odham, gave a blessing prayer, thanking God for the parents of Father Max and asking all in the commu-

Father Max receives blessing from the faithful and, at left, elder Joseph Enos.

12

nity to give Father Max their blessing.

After a delicious lunch, we were honored by the presence of Ned Norris, chairman of the Tohono O’odham Nation’s Tribal Government, who told us how much Father Max has meant to the people of the community during his nearly two decades of service.

One of Pope Benedict XVI’s intentions for this special Year for Priests is that priests will become occasions for people to meet God. In the years I have known him, I have witnessed Father Max living out that intention with great dedication.

We hope Father Max will return to serve in our Diocese in a year or so.

Holding a pot of holy water, Father Max reflects.

THE NEW VISION - LA NUEVA VISIÓN OF THE ROMAN CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF TUCSON • WWW.NEWVISIONONLINE.ORG • SEPTEMBER 2009

YEAR FOR PRIESTS

Diocesan Prayer for Year for Priests Lord, in union with the Church world wide and the intentions of our Holy Father, we pray that our priests will draw ever closer to You during this Year for Priests.

We ask You to renew in them Your call to holiness as they endeavor to bring Your love and compassion to us in the most important times of our lives.

We thank You for the gift of their vocation, and we ask that You call even more to a life of service in Your priesthood.

Lord, we ask You to give us willing hearts and able hands so that we can work with our priests to build up the Body of Christ.

Through the loving intercession of Mary, our Blessed Mother, and of St. John Vianney, patron of priests, we ask especially that You give our priests encouragement in their ministry. Amen.

Four more join seminary ranks Four new seminarians have been welcomed to the Diocese of Tucson, joining 13 others who are continuing their studies for the priesthood.

With the 17 men on the path to priesthood, Bishop Gerald F. Kicanas said “we are seeing answers to our prayers for an increase in vocations.”

The new seminarians, all of whom will be at Mt. Angel Seminary in Portland, Ore., are Sergio Castaneda, Juan Jose Garcia, Martin Moreno and Arturo Sanchez.

Castaneda, 20, of Rio Rico, is a member of Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish in Nogales, as is Garcia, 18, of Green Valley, and Moreno, 19, of Rio Rico. Sanchez, 18, of Yuma, is a member of St. Francis of Assisi Parish there.

The co-directors of the diocesan Office of Vocations, Father Mike Bucciarelli and Father Vili Valderrama, have established Priesthood Vocation Discernment Groups, a new effort that combines the separate discernment programs that had been in place for men 18-35 and men 36-55.

All parishes have been asked to help promote this new effort by placing announcements in their bulletins.

Continuing their studies, preparations and discernment are John Morris, Deacon Oscar Magallanes, Robert Hutchison, Jorge Farias-Saucedo, Ramonito Celestial, Wilbert Celestino, Albert Miranda, John Paul Shea, Marco Carrasco, Edson Elizarraras, Timothy Pearson, Gabriel Romero and Alan Valencia.

Noting that one of Pope Benedict XVI’s stated goals for this Year for Priests is prayer for an increase in vocations, Bishop Kicanas said: “Please pray for and encourage our seminarians as they continue their studies.”

Chaplains to His Holiness

After the Ceremony of Investiture on Aug. 9, Bishop Gerald F. Kicanas poses with, from left, new Monsignors Tom Millane, Van Wagner, Ed Carscallen and Todd O’Leary in the sanctuary of St. Augustine Cathedral in Tucson. The distinctive purple sash that they wear with their purpletrimmed cassocks signify that they have received the Papal Honor of Chaplain to His Holiness.

There was resounding applause for each of the new monsignors as they were announced, as they received their sashes and as they turned together to display the diplomas of their new rank.

Bequest of $110,000 “All of the priests in our Diocese can take pride in this recognition,” said Bishop Kicanas. “As priests An anonymous donor has bequeathed $110,000 to the we form a presbyterate, joined together as brothers. When one brother is honored we are all blessed.”

Diocese of Tucson’s Charity & Ministry Fund.

“We are always grateful when the Diocese is remem- A reception for the new monsignors was held at the Msgr. Arsenio Carrillo Placita adjacent to the Cathebered in your will or estate plans,” said Margie Puerta dral.

Edson, executive director for stewardship and development.

SEPTEMBER 2009 • THE NEW VISION - LA NUEVA VISIÓN OF THE ROMAN CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF TUCSON • WWW.NEWVISIONONLINE.ORG

13

Be Sure That Your Bequest Serves its Intended Purpose

Recently, a faithful member of a parish made a generous bequest to his church: he left a sizeable sum to fund an academic scholarship. There was only one problem: no school was associated with that church. Elsewhere, another parishioner’s $700,000 bequest stipulated a specific use of the funds in a way that was not applicable to that individual church.

The result of these bequests, which were made without sufficient information and planning, was that the wishes of the testators could not be honored as they had intended.

It is unfortunate that a person, having toiled through a purposeful and meaningful life, and having attempted in good faith to help others by leaving a lasting legacy, would inadvertently undermine, and possibly even cancel out, their own effort. Fortunately, however, situations like these are precisely one of the reasons the Catholic Foundation for the Diocese of Tucson was established: to serve as a valued and trusted source of advice and expert help in developing

“Each must do as already determined, without sadness or compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.”

– 2 Corinthians 9:7 customized giving strategies that enhance your well-being, enable you to realize life-goals and ensure your bequest is properly targeted — all while sustaining and furthering the work of Christ on earth.

It is especially important that you contact us if you are considering a bequest. Even if you are not considering a bequest at this time, you may decide at a later date, after weighing the many options we can provide, that a bequest is in your best interest. The Foundation is here to help you develop and execute giving strategies that are aligned to your wishes and your plans. For more information, visit our Web site at www.cathfnd. org, or call Executive Director Martin Camacho at 520-838-2508.

As you examine your giving strategies, another thought to consider is the current economic climate. There are a number of ways to use the current situation advantageously. For example, if you are older than 70 and one-half years, it is possible to transfer funds directly out of your Individual Retirement Account (IRA) in a way that doesn’t create taxable income, although it doesn’t create a charitable-deduction either. This is due to recent tax-law changes that may only apply up to Dec. 31, 2009.

Every life leaves a mark. What will be your legacy?

Discover the ways you can continue to make a difference in the lives of others with a lasting gift through the Catholic Foundation for the Diocese of Tucson.

For more information, contact Martin Camacho, Executive Director at (520) 838-2508 or mcamacho@cathfnd.org.

Visit us at www.cathfnd.org

111 S. Church Avenue Tucson, Arizona 85701 Our mission is to build endowments to provide perpetual resources to further the religious, educational and charitable ministries in the Diocese of Tucson.

14

THE NEW VISION - LA NUEVA VISIÓN OF THE ROMAN CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF TUCSON • WWW.NEWVISIONONLINE.ORG • SEPTEMBER 2009

VISIÓN La

Nueva

de la Diócesis Católica Romana de Tucson

Volumen IV - Número X

REFLEXIONES Padre Roberto Kose, OFM Cap.

la rutina de Septiembre C

on el mes de Septiembre comenzamos una nueva rutina normal de nuestras vidas. Después de los meses de vacaciones y el calor de Arizona --del cual tratamos muchas veces de escapar--, ya estamos listos para volver a la escuela y a la rutina de cada día con un nuevo espíritu de energía y entusiasmo.

También la iglesia está continuando la rutina, se puede decir, de poner énfasis en el compromiso del bautismo que es el propósito de nuestras vidas, como amigos y seguidores de Jesús. Seguimos a Cristo con una actitud distinta a la que observa este mundo. Nuestro énfasis no está dirigido al dinero, al poder militar o a la fama personal sino a la persona de Jesús y el gran amor que Él profesa por nosotros. Las lecturas enfatizan la verdad de la divina misericordia y amor de Dios por nosotros, su gente.

Son valores distintos a los de este mundo.

Durante este mes de Septiembre celebramos también muchas fiestas de la Virgen como, por ejemplo, la Natividad de la Virgen María, así como muchas celebraciones locales como en Cuba, a la Virgen de la Caridad del Cobre; en Venezuela, a Nuestra Señora de Coromoto; en Perú, a Nuestra Señora de la Merced, y la fiesta de Nuestra Señora de los Dolores, en México, que sigue a la solemnidad de la exaltación de la Santa Cruz, el día 14. El motivo de estas dos fiestas que litúrgicamente parecen parte de la Cuaresma y la Semana Santa es recordar, de nuevo en medio del tiempo ordinario, el centro de nuestra salvación: Cristo Jesús.

Después de nuestras vacaciones de verano pensamos una vez mas en el liderazgo que debemos mostrar ante los demás. Sí, tenemos libertad en Cristo pero también tenemos una obligación moral para ser personas responsables que puedan decir la verdad y buscar la paz y la justicia. Hay que ser personas que respeten la palabra y que tengan respeto por todos: las personas que están perdiendo la vida en Irak, nuestros hermanos que están perdiendo la vida en el desierto de Arizona, durante estos meses de calor, y los hermanos que están sufriendo la separación de la familia o la falta de una educación adecuada en este país a causa de las leyes de inmigración.

Nosotros hemos recibido muchas bendiciones de Dios, compartámoslas con nuestros hermanos.

Septiembre 2009 • $15 por año • Tucson, Arizona

Visita www.newvisiononline.org

Fundación Papal Aprueba 193 Proyectos para América latina Desarrollo integral para Comunidades Pobres

CIUDAD

DEL VATICANO. (ZENIT.org).- El Consejo de Administración de la Fundación “Populorum Progressio” ha aprobado en reciente reunión, en la localidad alemana de Paderborn, 193 proyectos de ayuda al desarrollo integral a favor de comunidades indígenas, mestizas, afroamericanas y campesinas de América Latina y del Caribe.

Un comunicado firmado por monseñor Segundo Tejado Muñoz, oficial del Consejo Pontificio “Cor Unum”, informa que los fondos destinados para la financiación de los proyectos superan los dos millones de dólares.

La mayor parte de las iniciativas aprobadas por la fundación se realizará en Brasil con 39 proyectos, Colombia con 35, Perú 27 y Ecuador con 18.

Los proyectos presentados a la fundación en el año 2008 fueron 203 por parte de diversas comunidades católicas y grupos pastorales de las diócesis. Cuentan con la aprobación del obispo del lugar. Sólo diez

no han podido ser aceptados por el Consejo de Administración de la Fundación.

Los fondos que distribuye la fundación serán financiados casi totalmente por el Comité para la ayuda al Tercer Mundo de la Conferencia Episcopal Italiana.

Los proyectos inciden en diferentes aspectos del desarrollo integral de las comunidades como salud, vivienda, agua potable, educación, infraestructuras municipales, producción, alimentación, formación religiosa y cívica.

En la reunión se aprovechó para presentar diversas situaciones sociopolíticas y eclesiales de las naciones representadas, en el contexto pastoral de todo el continente, con especial atención por la situación que atraviesan Honduras y otros países que están viviendo situaciones de tensión social y política. La reunión contó con la presencia del cardenal Paul Joseph Cordes, presidente del Consejo Pontificio “Cor Unum” y, como tal, también presidente de la “Populorum Progressio”.

Año de los Sacerdotes

Señor:

Oración

En unión con la Iglesia mundial y las intenciones de nuestro Santo Padre, oramos para que nuestros sacerdotes se acerquen mas a ti durante el presente año dedicado precisamente a ellos.

Te pedimos que renueves en ellos el llamado a la santidad a través de su misión de entregarnos tu amor y tu compasión en los momentos mas importantes de nuestras vidas.

Te damos gracias por el regalo de sus vocación y te pedimos que llames aún mas vocaciones a una vida de servicio en tu sacerdocio.

Te pedimos que nos dés corazones deseosos y manos capaces de trabajar junto con nuestros sacerdotes para edificar el Cuerpo de Cristo.

Por medio de la intercesión de María, nuestra Santísima Madre, y de San Juan Vianney, santo patrón de los sacerdotes, de manera especial te suplicamos alientes a tus saverdotes en su ministerio.

Amén.

Entre los presentes, se encontraban el cardenal Juan Sandoval Íñiguez, arzobispo de Guadalajara (México) y presidente del Consejo Administrativo; el arzobispo de La Paz (Bolivia), monseñor Edmundo Abastoflor Montero, vicepresidente del Consejo; el arzobispo de Palmas (Brasil), monseñor Alberto Taveira Corrêa; el arzobispo de Guayaquil (Ecuador), monseñor Antonio Arregui Yarza; el obispo del vicariato apostólico de

Yurimaguas (Perú), monseñor José Luis Astigarraga Lizarralde; monseñor Tejado Muñoz, y Juan Vicente Isaza Ocampo, secretario del Consejo.

La Fundación “Populorum Progressio” fue creada por Juan Pablo II en 1992 con la finalidad de promover el desarrollo integral de las comunidades de campesinos más pobres de América Latina y ser signo y testimonio del anhelo cristiano fraternidad y auténtica solidaridad.

la Nueva evangelización exige Sacerdotes Bien Formados: el Papa CASTEL

GANDOLFO. (ZENIT.org).- Benedicto XVI reconoce que la formación permanente de los sacerdotes constituye un punto decisivo para que la “nueva evangelización no se quede simplemente en un eslogan atractivo” Así lo refirió durante la intervención que pronunció durante la audiencia general, celebrada en la residencia pontificia de Castel Gandolfo, dedicada a recordar la figura de San Juan Eudes (16011680).

Este santo francés, como recordó el Papa, comprendió que para descubrir el amor del Corazón de Jesús es decisiva la formación profunda y continua de los sacerdotes, motivo por el cual fundó la congregación de Jesús y María, actualmente extendidos por Francia, Italia, América del Norte, América Latina, el Caribe y África.

“También hoy se experimenta la necesidad de que los sacerdotes testimonien la infinita misericordia de Dios con una vida totalmente ‘conquistada’ por Cristo, y aprendan esto desde los años de su formación en los seminarios”, reconoció el Papa en pleno Año Sacerdotal.

En este sentido, recordó que Juan Pablo II, después del Sínodo de 1990, emanó la exhortación apostólica Pastores dabo vobis, en la que presenta la importancia de la formación de los seminaristas y sacerdotes.

“Es un verdadero punto de partida para una auténtica reforma de la vida y del apostolado de los sacerdotes, y es también el punto central para que la ‘nueva evangelización’ no se quede en un eslogan atractivo, sino que se traduzca en realidad”, añadió Benedicto XVI.

VIDA ECLESIAL

RINCON ESPIRITUAL

Padre Raúl Valencia

Parroco de San Judas Tadeo, San Luis, Az

Su Santidad el Papa Benedicto XVI, proclamó en

Junio 19 del presente, el AÑO DEL SACERDOTE. En hora buena. Sobre todo porque hoy, incisivamente el sacerdote de la Iglesia Católica ha sido y es blanco de crítica por su investidura y figura pública, dentro de nuestra misma Iglesia y no se diga otras comunidades religiosas, ideologías y medios de comunicación.

Me permito reconocer el trabajo, dones y talentos que incansablemente ofrecemos al servicio del pueblo de Dios. Vale la pena reflexionar qué hemos hecho con los sacerdotes: ¿los amamos, los defendemos, los aceptamos con su humanidad, apreciamos lo que hacen y lo que dejan a cambio de servir?, o los etiquetamos y los destruimos…

Hay parroquias que tienen diez mil feligreses o más y UN SOLO CURA. Es curioso; todos opinan sobre ese CURA y más discutido que un acusado. Es blanco de todas las miradas, es blanco de todas las opiniones y juicios, es blanco de todos los caprichos e imaginaciones.

Si es gordo lo critican; si es flaco también.

Si es viejo, lo quieren joven.

Si es joven, lo quieren de más edad y experiencia.

Si es alegre y chistoso, lo quieren serio.

Si es feo, no les agrada.

Si es buen mozo, es una lástima.

Si es de color, lo quieren blanco.

Si es simpático, lo critican por eso.

Si es observante y exigente, lo llaman cascarrabias.

Si fuma, es vicioso.

Si no fuma, no es hombre.

Si canta mal, sobra tema para las bromas.

Si canta muy bien, es muy vanidoso.

Si es suave, lo quieren de más carácter.

Si es tranquilo, lo quieren de más nervio y templado.

Si es muy generoso, lo consideran muy manirroto.

Si es medido, lo tienen por avaro.

Si concientiza a los feligreses de las necesidades de la Iglesia, es muy bueno para sacar dinero.

Si sale a la calle, lo critican porque nunca está en la Iglesia.

Si no sale, lo critican por alejarse de las almas.

Si va con los pobres, se quejan los ricos.

Si va con los ricos, desprecia a los pobres.

Si trata más a los hombres, se quejan las mujeres.

Si trata con las mujeres, es objeto de maledicencia de los hombres.

Si prefiere o tiene carisma por los niños, hablan mal los mayores.

Si toca algún instrumento musical o baila, es liberal, disipado, etc. etc.

Y Usted… ¿Cómo lo quiere? No se puede servir a dos señores.

Es imposible ser del gusto de cada feligrés. El sacerdote es un HOMBRE como los demás y que, a pesar de la gracia y su consagración, tiene que luchar por su propia santificación a la que todos estamos llamados como bautizados.

Mira RINCON ESPIRITUAL, página 18

16

Benedicto XVi y Obama: la religión, de Factor de Conflicto a Factor de Paz Análisis del Filosofo Henri Hude Sobre Filosofía Moral y Política PARÍS,

Francia.

(ZENIT.org).- En el último número de revista HUMANITAS, de la Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, puede leerse un ensayo del filósofo francés Henri Hude, miembro del Consejo de Colaboradores de esa publicación chilena que circula en el norte y sur del continente americano, en el cual analiza, desde la perspectiva de la filosofía moral política, los discursos del Papa Benedicto XVI y del presidente Barack Obama, en Oriente Medio.

Antiguo profesor del Instituto Juan Pablo II para la Familia, en su sede romana de la Pontificia Universidad Lateranense y actual director del Centro de Investigaciones Éticas en la Escuela Saint-Cyr para oficiales militares en Francia, Hude conversó con ZENIT sobre este ensayo —¿Por qué semejante paralelo entre los discursos de Benedicto XVI y los de Barack Obama?

—Henri Hude: La humanidad necesita emprender “un nuevo inicio”, no sólo en Oriente Medio. Benedicto XVI y Barack Obama lo afirman y emplean la misma expresión. Es la primera y la última palabra de ellos.

La meta hacia la cual apunta este “nuevo inicio” es la paz universal. Los dos desean apuntar sin utopía hacia esa dirección. Este “nuevo inicio” sólo es posible, según ambos, si se toma seriamente en cuenta la religión. Los dos prestan, por consiguiente, especial atención a las condiciones culturales y espirituales de la paz universal. Sus perspectivas sobre el porvenir --distintas, pero cruzadas-- sugieren una posible recomposición positiva del

panorama global, espiritual y temporal.

—¿Cuál es, en su opinión, el aporte esencial de sus intervenciones paralelas?

—Henri Hude: Decir que la religión puede ser un factor de paz. Barack Obama piensa que las religiones pueden convivir armoniosamente sometiéndose a la norma de una filosofía que asegure la igualdad y la libertad de las opiniones y las tradiciones en el seno de una constitución política dirigida a agrupar toda la pluralidad en la unidad, sin anularla.

“E pluribus Unum”. Y dada esta condición es muy positivo su aporte a la sociedad. En mi opinión, Benedicto XVI expresa de mejor manera cómo puede operar este modelo teórico sin degradarse en la utopía o la manipulación. Benedicto XVI habla menos de la religión en general, abordando en cambio metódicamente, con realismo y respeto, las diversas relaciones particulares presentes: entre el cristianismo y la Ilustración; entre la Ilustración y el Islam; entre el cristianismo y el Islam. Ciertamente, considera también el judaísmo.

—¿Incluye usted la Ilustración o las Luces entre las religiones?

—Henri Hude: Por supuesto. Eso es verdad también para la Ilustración en su etapa actual, enteramente relativista. Nos decimos que sería más sencillo reconocer mutuamente nuestras “opiniones” sin buscar una “verdad absoluta”... pero no es tan simple, ya que si no hay verdad absoluta, eso mismo viene a ser la verdad absoluta y entonces sigue habiendo una verdad absoluta. Y esta última “verdad absoluta”

no es puramente una regla práctica útil para la tolerancia, sino una creencia metafísica determinada, ligada a todo un sistema de autorizaciones y prohibiciones. Si de cada espíritu individual puede surgir una verdad absoluta, estamos en pleno politeísmo o panteísmo. Por consiguiente, es del todo razonable que la Ilustración planteen a las religiones problemas sobre la tolerancia, la libertad religiosa y las guerras de religión, pero únicamente si se incluyen en ellas mismas y en condiciones de igualdad en el dispositivo problemático que plantean. Por cuanto la Razón de las Luces, cuando profundizamos en ella, es también una de las ideas posibles de lo Absoluto, de la Divinidad, junto con todas las demás.

—¿Qué interés pueden tener esos “perfiles paralelos” en relación con el trabajo de evangelización?

—Henri Hude: La evangelización sólo es posible si los cristianos están orgullosos de su fe y no se sienten culpabilizados a causa de la misma. Benedicto XVI desculpabiliza a los cristianos, pero también a los musulmanes y judíos. Un alma culpabilizada no se atreve a hablar públicamente sobre su fe. ¿Por qué?

Benedicto XVI lo dice: “Hay quienes sostienen que la religión es necesariamente causa de división en nuestro mundo, y pretenden que mientras menos atención se preste a la religión en el ámbito público, tanto mejor será” (Discurso en la Mezquita Al-Hussein). Y el argumento para probar eso es la existencia de las guerras de religión, que serían inevitables. Barack Obama y Benedicto XVI enfrentan este problema con franqueza y profundidad. De aquí se desprenden dos ideas muy distintas, pero en parte convergentes, de la religión como factor fundamen-

tal de la paz. Eso tiende a desculpabilizar al cristiano en relación con este tipo de reproche y también le evita exponerse al mismo.

—¿Cuál es la diferencia más grande entre los dos planteamientos?

—Henri Hude: El del presidente norteamericano enfoca políticamente las religiones a pesar de no estar desprovisto de sensibilidad religiosa, y ayuda a progresar la reflexión pública haciendo sentir que discierne claramente la complejidad del problema. Con todo, difícilmente se eleva por encima de una retórica pacifista interreligiosa, cálida, pero algo vaga, cuya eficacia en los espíritus religiosos se mitigará en su alcance y será a menudo función de su grado de secularización.

Ciertamente, la disolución de las religiones en el ambiente secularista y relativista, que Obama no desea, sería automáticamente la solución de los problemas que su existencia plantea; pero en este caso la disolución del secularismo sería también una posible solución de los problemas por él planteados a las religiones... ¿Cómo ir más allá de estas seudo soluciones?

El Papa, por su parte, aborda religiosamente las religiones y considera la dificultad relativa de su coexistencia política (que es un hecho innegable) en primer lugar como un problema religioso, que para cada uno se presenta seriamente en el interior de la conciencia religiosa. No parte de las exigencias de la política democrática o la paz mundial planteadas como absolutos, sino de la búsqueda de la voluntad de Dios en cada situación.

Es también por este motivo que su filosofía política es más profunda y penetra en mayor medida en lo concreto de las condiciones efectivas de la paz.

THE NEW VISION - LA NUEVA VISIÓN DE LA DIOCESIS ROMANA CATOLICA DE TUCSON • WWW.NEWVISIONONLINE.ORG •SEPTEMBER 2009

VISIÓN CATÓLICA

Había

una vez un hombre que se sentía profundamente vacío, desolado y deprimido. Un día vió a su esposa vestida de luto y le preguntó quien había fallecido. La esposa le contestó: “En el cielo, Dios ha muerto”. El hombre replicó: “Estás bromeando, Dios no puede dejar de existir. Él vive eternamente”. La esposa le dijo entonces: “¿Estás seguro?”. Él respondió”: Claro, Dios es inmortal, vive y vivirá por los siglos de los siglos”.

Ella finalizó” “Entonces, si en verdad Dios no ha muerto y vive eternamente, dime ¿por qué vives tu vida en medio de la tristeza y desolación?”.

Un pensador, en los albores de la historia acuñó la frase: “Homo vivens gloria Dei”. Es decir, lo que mas glorifica a Dios es un hombre feliz pero, sin embargo, en nuestro entorno es mas fácil encontrar a hombres que deambulan por la vida marcados por la desilusión, el desencanto, el sinsabor, la sinrazón.

Una persona deprimida expresó: “¿Para que estoy aquí? No soy nada. No le encuentro sentido a nada.

Es horrible”.

En el Antiguo Testamen-

NI TANTO QUE QUEME AL SANTO Padre Viliulfo Valderrama

Parroco de San Felipe de Jesús, Nogales, Az

Vacíos to, Elías, el gran gigante de la fe y campeón de la profesía, se sintió abrumado por las persecuciones y, ante eso, un día exclamó: “Ya basta Señor, mejor quítame la vida” (1Reyes: 19.4).

Aún desde una óptica de fe, la experiencia de Dios está marcada por la duda, la sed no saciada. Dios es como una visión ciega y, a la vez, como una oscuridad luminosa.

Pero sí somos llamados a la felicidad, ¿cuál es el origen de esos aturdimientos existenciales que perturban la mente y nos empujan al abismo del fatalismo, la tristeza y la desolación?

No es fácil definir el por qué los hombres caen en el abismo lacerante del vértigo emocional. Ni la psicología, ni la medicina, ni la religión tienen la respuesta exacta y conclusiva.

Las escuelas psicoterapeúticas que tratan de entender este fenómeno

CUT YOUR ENERGY COSTS!!!

INSTALL A HIGH EFFICIENCY UNIT TODAY!

Family Owned and Operated

-Service & Installation -Free Estimates on Installations

-Commercial & Residential

-Serving Arizona for over 30 years

(520) 791-7591

siguen proliferando. La perspectiva médica habla de desbalances químicos, la visión neurológica de neurotransmisores, la filosófica de irracionalidad de las ideas, la psicológica de intolerancia e inadaptabilidad.

La perspectiva psicológica establece unos parámetros mas o menos perceptibles: el deprimido es el que tiene una perturbación en su sueño y en su apetito, no se puede concentrar, se irrita fácilmente, llora constantemente, se siente desvalorizado y con gran fatiga, no tiene deseos de relacionarse con nadie, ha perdido el sentido del placer, ha renunciado a actividades recreativas, no le ve el sentido a la vida y no quiere vivir.

Esa sintomatología ayuda sin duda a establecer ciertas líneas de ayuda para quienes padecen este síndrome fatal. Y es así como los psicólogos conductistas se dan a la tarea de reducir esos síntomas motivando a las personas a analizar y cambiar de estilo de vida.

Desde la perspectiva de la psicología positiva, las personas deprimidas deben ser exhortadas a sustituir el fatalismo de sus ideas por concepciones mas optimistas.

Los psicólogos cognitivos, por su parte, establecen que los hombres no son deprimidos por los acontecimientos o las cosas, sino por su manera de afrontrar los acontecimientos y las cosas.

La corriente farmacológica establece que los niveles precarios de dopamina y serotonina provocan las crisis emocionales y señala que la medicina psicotrópica es el mejor antídoto para contrarrestar la depresión.

Y los enfoques mas eclécticos incluyen un poco de todo: terapia prolongada, suministro de medicamentos, relectura de la vida, cambios conductuales, establecer redes de apoyo emocional, mejorar la alimentación, establecer una disciplina de ejercicio, etcétera.

Y si se quiere una visión mas integral, la dimensión espiritual es clave. La perspectiva cristiana es una herramienta eficaz para muchos creyentes. La frase “Todo lo puedo con Cristo que me favorece” (Fil.4,13) es el lema de miles que han superado la depresión.

El psicoterapeuta Bill O’Hanlon establece seis

estrategias para salir de la depresión: (1) Saltar de ese territorio. (2) Desafiar sus manifestaciones. (3) Movilizarse en su contra.

(4) Conectarse con otros.

(5) Descubrir el sentido y la esperanza y (6) Reiniciar un crecimiento cerebral.

Aunque no hay “recetas de cocina”, la ayuda está disponible para todos los seres humanos que experimenten estas crisis de la existencia. Por mas aguda que sea una crisis depresiva, la ayuda profesional disponible abre una ventana de esperanza para todos.

La depresión es una oportunidad para internarse en otro nivel mas profundo en la existencia.

Todos los seres humanos sufren profundos vacíos, los cuales pueden llenarse con droga, alcohol, comida, posesiones, activismo, etcétera.

Pero también está la alternativa de llenarla con DIOS. La filosofía oriental dice que la luz del día nos ayuda a ver el camino, pero la oscuridad no es del todo mala porque gracias a ella miramos hacia arriba, hacia donde están las estrellas.

Finalmente, alguién le preguntó una vez a Karl Menninger lo siguiente: “¿Qué le recomiendas a una persona que siente que la depresión le invade?”. Ante la sorpresa de todos, el famoso psiquiatra americano respondió: “Que salga de su casa, cierre la puerta, busque a alguien necesitado y le dé ayuda”.

Y así es, muchas veces la ayuda sincera a los mas necesitados es la medicina mas eficaz para llenar nuestros vacíos y alcanzar el bienestar emocional.

Y, ¿Por qué no Sacerdote?

Por el P. Fernando Pascual

Padre e hijo leían juntos y con emoción el periódico. El niño se encontraba sentado en las piernas del papá que, feliz, le comentaba una a una las noticias.

De pronto, apareció un anuncio en letras mayúsculas: “HE AQUÍ LA LISTA COMPLETA DE CARRERAS SEGÚN LAS ENCUESTAS MÁS RECIENTES”. El niño, con rostro brillante e ilusionado, empezó a leer: ingeniero, bombero, dentista, político, futbolista, …

Su dedo acariciaba la superficie del papel mientras repasaba los nombres.

Terminó.

Dirigió sus grandes ojos hacia su padre y, con un gesto de angustia pintado en la cara, volvió a repasar cada una de las profesiones citadas: arquitecto, campesino, policía, abogado, cirquero, tenista… yendo cada vez más rápido.

Una vez que hubo repasado dos o tres veces la lista, su padre le paró comentando: “No te afanes, hijo; el sacerdote no aparece en la lista”.

No cabe duda: el sacerdocio parece estar fuera de moda. Lo demuestra esta pequeña anécdota que escuché hace algunos años. Nos puede extrañar que el sacerdote no aparezca en la lista, pero muchas veces somos nosotros mismos los que no queremos que salga. Y sin embargo, ¡cuánto necesitamos del sacerdote en nuestro mundo!

Por ello, me ha parecido fantástica la iniciativa llevada a cabo por un grupo de seminaristas de los legionarios de Cristo.

En una página web titulada www.whynotpriest.org, cuyo vídeo está también disponible en YouTube y GodTube, ofrecen de manera original un videoclip que explica por qué decidieron seguir a Cristo a través de la vocación sacerdotal.

SEPTEMBER 2009 • THE NEW VISION - LA NUEVA VISIÓN DE LA DIOCESIS ROMANA CATOLICA DE TUCSON • WWW.NEWVISIONONLINE.ORG

17

CARE continued from page 1

RINCON ESPIRITUAL, continua de página 16

Lo anterior, no pretende ser una queja sino una invitación a nuestros feligreses a la reflexión: ¿Qué estamos haciendo con los sacerdotes. Hay pocos, estamos prácticamente en extinción, por así decirlo, y los que tenemos no los cuidamos.

Invito a nuestro amado pueblo de Dios a una profunda oración por los sacerdotes, especialmente los que nos encontremos en crisis, en soledad, los que extrañamos nuestra familia de sangre, cuando después de la última misa, en un domingo, te quedas absolutamente solo, tal vez cansado o frustrado.

Valdría la pena ofrecer plegarias ante el Santísimo, rezar el rosario, ofrecer la Eucaristía por los sacerdotes y, por qué no, ofrecerles una sonrisa, una palmada o una llamada telefónica sólo para desearle un buen día, una invitadita a comer, qué se yo…

Pienso que esto nos sería de un gran apoyo para todos los sacerdotes que estamos comprometidos y casados con todos ustedes, nuestra amada Iglesia.

A través de estas líneas, aprovecho para expresar mi más profunda admiración y respeto para todos mis hermanos sacerdotes. Ánimo, un abrazo fraternal para todos ustedes y que Dios nos siga bendiciendo, nos dé sabiduría para conducir a su pueblo y fuerzas en los momentos difíciles. Todo por el Reino de Dios, así sea.

Catholic Climate Covenant.

The Website proclaims: “This is…a concrete follow-up to the significant documentation issued over the years by the U.S. Catholic Bishops and the Vatican inviting us to take action on caring for God’s creation in its various aspects and in caring for the ‘least of these,’ in response to the challenges of environmental justice and global climate change.”

Such a commitment, the site continues, “is likely to be more openly received in parishes when coupled with a formation process that seeks to foster a deeper understanding of the issues, thereby leading to a change of heart and subsequent action.”

The team of “Holy Ground, Common Ground” says it is offering “our time, energy and expertise to parishes who would like to expand their current education/formation programs or other parish activities in this area.”

The team has attended a meeting of the East Vicariate pastors and offered its services.

“We...offered to make presentations to individual parishes on Care for Creation,” said Hirschboeck.

“One of the pastors suggested we give

‘If appropriate, we will gladly broaden this to an event for the entire Diocese.’

— Katie Hirschboeck

a vicariate-wide presentation of our vision on Sept. 20 at OMOS.” At that 1:30 p.m. presentation, she said, “we will tell people about the St. Francis Pledge/Climate Covenant opportunity, but the presentation itself will be more broadly focused on all aspects of Care for Creation.”

Added Hirschboeck: “If appropriate, we will gladly broaden this to an event for the entire Diocese.”

At the parish level, she said, Our Mother of Sorrows Parish Care for Creation Initiative “is moving along with major environmentally sound improvements to our parish hall, recycling programs and bins, summer film series of environmental films, ‘Earth Ball’ globes for the school classrooms, linkages between respect for life and creation care, and other bits and pieces.”

Hirschboeck chairs the OMOS

Christian Life Commission and is a professor of climatology in the University of Arizona’s Laboratory of Tree-Ring Research. With more than 20 years of teaching undergraduate non-science majors about the Earth’s environment and global climate change, she chairs the UA Global Change graduate program.

She is involved in the OMOS Care for Creation initiative and, last year she co-facilitated – with Mike and Theresa Crimmins – a Just Faith/ Just Matters program titled “God’s Creation Cries for Justice.”

The Crimmins are Ph.D. research specialists at the University of Arizona. Mike is a Climate Science Extension Specialist in the university’s Department of Soil, Water and Environmental Science. Theresa is a Research Specialist in plant ecology with the Arid Lands Information Center and active in citizen scientist initiatives and adult education.

Guilo and Joan Grecchi co-founded the New Jersey Catholic Coalition for Environmental Justice in 2002 and organized several statewide environmental conferences. Returning to Tucson in 2005, they later led a Lenten reflection series on Caring for God’s Creation at St. Cyril’s.

St. Vincent de Paul Stores Some Things Never Go Out of Style!

circa 1950’s

Your donation to St. Vincent can impact the life of someone who needs your help — a family with four small children, whose mother is unable to work as she recovers from an illness may need emergency food; help with rent or utilities or just someone to provide hope.

Help us continue to help others in faith, hope and love. Go shopping, donate or volunteer.

Visit Our Stores

Tucson: 820 S. Sixth Ave. (520) 622–2821 or 5426 East Pima (520) 323–0734 Green Valley: 505 N. La Canada Dr. (520) 625–4536 Sierra Vista: 220 Myer Dr. or 236 W. Fry Blvd., (520) 458–0870 Douglas: 543 N. G. Ave., (520) 364–3637 Benson: 201 E. 5th St, (520) 586–9438 How do I make a donation?

Make your check payable to the Society Casa Grande: 405 E. 2nd St, of St. Vincent de Paul and mail it to: 829 (520) 836–2009 South Sixth Avenue, Tucson, Arizona, 85701.

For more information visit our web site www.svdptucson.org or contact (520) 628–SVDP (7837) This ad and its design are a gift from Connie Boch of Travel Host magazine of Southern Arizona and designer Chad Worth.

18

THE NEW VISION - LA NUEVA VISIÓN DE LA DIOCESIS ROMANA CATOLICA DE TUCSON • WWW.NEWVISIONONLINE.ORG •SEPTEMBER 2009

SEPTEMBER 2009 • THE NEW VISION - LA NUEVA VISIÓN OF THE ROMAN CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF TUCSON • WWW.NEWVISIONONLINE.ORG

19

Corporate aid vital to San Miguel students

By SHERIE STEELE Special to The New Vision What makes the Corporate Tax Credit Program of the State of Arizona so important? At San Miguel Catholic High School, the corporate tax credit is crucial in providing access to the most vulnerable of our youth.

Here’s what some of the students (names have been changed to protect their privacy) are saying about San Miguel High School and the corporate tax credit program.

“The Corporate Tax Credit scholarship I received this year probably saved my life,” said Jose, when he heard his tuition contract would be supported through the innovative Arizona State Corporate Tax Credit Program.

“When I see my old middle school friends dropping out and getting involved in gang activity, I’m so grateful for the chance to go to school at San Miguel.”

All students at San Miguel Catholic High School need financial aid in order to attend this Catholic college and career preparatory school. San Miguel High School was established specifically for families of limited financial means.

On average, families can afford only about 10 percent of the costs. Only low income students are eligible to apply to San Miguel, so the tax credit program is critical to their access. And access to San Miguel is their “ticket” out of the poverty and underemployment that is the “norm” for this neighborhood.

“Because I have a corporate tax credit scholarship, I

Access to San Miguel is their “ticket” out of the poverty and underemployment that is the “norm” for this neighborhood.

have been able to stay in school and stay focused on my education and my future,” said Claudia. “I’m too shy for public schools, and the teachers never realized how much I struggled. At San Miguel I get the attention I need, and my grades and my achievement levels are up. For the first time, I am enjoying school, and I’m really learning.”

Claudia has struggled hard to bring her academic skills up to grade level. Currently a sophomore, she plans to apply to the University of Arizona, and maybe even to some out-of-state colleges.

Last year 100 percent of the students graduating from San Miguel qualified for college scholarships, and were awarded in aggregate about $2.4 million in college scholarships.

Each year, San Miguel High School offers more corporate tax credit tuition assistance grants to its students than nearly any other Arizona school. More than 80 percent of San Miguel’s students meet the eligibility requirements for a Corporate Tax Credit scholarship, although

San Miguel has received tax credits to support only about a third of all its students who could benefit from this assistance program.

Only need-based students “switching” from the public school environment to a private school are eligible for these funds. That is the typical San Miguel applicant, a student who is struggling in a public school environment.

At San Miguel, students thrive in a values-based, Lasallian learning community, where self-discipline is expected of each student, and focused individualized support is provided by highly trained teachers.

“To meet the need of all students like Jose and Claudia who are eligible for this program,” said school President Leslie Shultz-Crist, “we could utilize three times the amount of Corporate Tax Credit gifts we currently receive.

I hope there are businesses out there who will consider recommending their tax credit donation to go to San Miguel Catholic High School. Their investment in our school is an investment in the future of our entire community.”

“San Miguel High School is a great example of what the corporate tax credit was intended for, to assist low-income children and to give them the opportunity to switch from underperforming schools into private education,” said Gracie Quiroz, Executive Director of the CTSO program. ­— Sheri Steele is Director of Institutional Advancement at San Miguel High School.

European Pilgrimage  



Celebrate Mass 9 Days!  

 

Fully Escorted + Two Catholic Chaplain–Priests!

                                                                                 



 YMT…Providing fun-filled affordable travel since 1967!

20

THE NEW VISION - LA NUEVA VISIÓN OF THE ROMAN CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF TUCSON • WWW.NEWVISIONONLINE.ORG • SEPTEMBER 2009

CATHOLIC COMMUNITY SERVICES OF SOUTHERN ARIZONA, INC.

Deaf, hard of hearing students acquire life skills at unique camp

By RUTH LILJENQUIST Special to The New Vision For a small group of teens, summer camp this year wasn’t about hiking, swimming, or appreciating the great outdoors.

Camp Wings for Deaf and hard of hearing kids was about learning how to live independently.

For many deaf and hard of hearing youth, learning critical thinking and independent living skills doesn’t come easy.

Because of the communication barriers, these youth often miss out on a lot of information that is normally communicated in the home from parents to children, especially if there is not a common language.

In addition, many people in the hearing world are not trained on how to communicate and teach these skills or work with people who are Deaf or hard of hearing.

Camp Wings, which just wrapped up its second annual camp in June with nine campers participating, was put together

by CCS’ Community Outreach Program for the Deaf (COPD), the Arizona School for the Deaf and Blind (ASDB), and Vocational Rehabilitation to help Deaf and hard of hearing teens learn independent

living skills. This educational, recreational, and adventuresome camp helps teens learn practical skills—like how to plan a menu, cook, budget, buy groceries, and use public transportation—as well as cognitive skills—like decision making, problem solving, and resolving confl icts. The camp also introduces the youth to community resources that can assist them in living independently and achieving their goals.

One of the new components of this year’s program was career development. During the first week of the camp, COPD staff administered the O-NET interest profiler, a tool that encourages career exploration and matches the participant’s interests with various careers. The staff then used the results to arrange job shadowing opportunities for the campers during the second week. Two of the campers were interested in auto mechanics and spent an afternoon at a local garage observing and interviewing the mechanics. Another camper was interested in graphic design and was able to shadow a graphic/Web designer at a local magazine company.

“The job shadowing was very popular with the kids,” said Mike Gutierrez, COPD program director. “They were able

Mike Gutierrez, top right,looks on as Camp Wings campers in a “human knot” work toward unknotting themselves without letting go of their hands. The activity builds teamwork, cooperation, leadership and usually involves a lot of laughing.

to learn about the careers they were interested in, and also about the kind of training they would need, the pay and benefits they could earn, the kind of challenges they might face on the job, and so on.”

Of course, the camp wasn’t without some adventure (would it be camp otherwise?). The teens went on several “urban

adventures.” They had to figure out puzzles, clues, and maps to guide an ASDB-staff driven van to several helpful institutions around town, such as Pima Community College and Vocational Rehabilitation. The camp staff used this approach to establish a level of fun, but also to build teamwork and decision making skills. Each adventure was designed specifically to encourage independence.

“The campers learned a lot,” said Ann Ventola, client services program director with COPD. “They learned about the resources that are available to them, the careers they might choose, and some of the life skills they need to live on their own, guide their own lives, and interact well with others. That’s a pretty great camp!” *************** CCS’ Community Outreach Program for the Deaf provides supportive services—including counseling, case management, job search, and interpreting—for Deaf and hard of hearing individuals of all ages. For more information, call 520-7921906.

PILGRIMAGE to Our Lady of La Salette October 4, 2009

The Missionaries of Our Lady of La Salette cordially invite you to join them in the Annual Pilgrimage October 4, 2009, 11 a.m. - 7:30 p.m. to the beautiful shrine of Our Lady of La Salette in Double Adobe, Arizona

* 11 a.m. lunch, private prayer 1 :00 p.m. Holy hour, confessions, healing service, concelebrated Mass 2:45 p.m.

• 8: 00 AM. Bus leaves “Trader Joe’s” parking lot - N.E. Corner Oracle & Magee This bus will proceed to St. Ann’s Convent and pick up passengers at 8:30 AM. • 8:40 AM. Bus leaves St. Ann’s Convent 3820 N. Sabino Canyon Rd. • 8:00 AM. Bus leaves St. Margaret’s Church. 801 N. Grande Ave. & St. Clair St. • 8:00 AM. Bus leaves St. Francis de Sales Church. 1375 S. Camino Seco Mrs. Del Calma 290-0952

BUS TICKETS: ADULTS - $20 CHILDREN - $10

Call Bob Traficanti 299-2701

*Bring your own lunch. *Beverages provided.

SEPTEMBER 2009 • THE NEW VISION - LA NUEVA VISIÓN OF THE ROMAN CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF TUCSON • WWW.NEWVISIONONLINE.ORG

21

A newspaper story caught my eye a few weeks ago.

It was about child molester who had been arrested in Tennessee after hiding from authorities for seven years.

He had been convicted in Georgia and had fled after violating his probation by failing to register as a sex offender.

As described in the story, he literally recreated himself.

He established a new life in Tennessee under an assumed name. He worked at a retail store. He was a volunteer youth minister in a local Baptist church.

It is not known yet whether he harmed any children under his care at the Baptist church, but you can imagine the anxiety that the leaders of that church must have experienced when they learned of his background.

The story did not make clear whether the church had tried to do any kind of background check or how completely the fugitive had covered his tracks. He may have taken on not only a new name, but also a new Social Security Number.

That notwithstanding, it is likely that the “low tech” aspect of a background check, a simple set of phone calls, might have been enough to expose him.

I read this story with particular interest because it coincided with the completion of this year’s education video The word out there is, “It is going to get worse before it gets better.” Given the state of our economy and the reality of our lives, we Americans are cutting back seriously on our expenditures and purchases. In fact, it is amazing how it is becoming a purposeful lifestyle choice and many hope to maintain this pattern of living, when things pick up again.

We are realizing what the Gospel has been trying to get across to us about greed, excess, and pride. Michael Maniates, a professor of political and environmental sciences, “Perhaps the silver lining of the recession is that people are coming to realize that they can live with less and their lives are richer for it!”

More people are donating their possessions to others who are just struggling to survive. Half the people are saying that they really do have what they need already.

The personal value is shifting to the importance of people and life experiences versus accumulating possessions and objects.

It is almost amusing how down-sizing is becoming the new upgrade. It is a way of breaking the hold of materialism and freeing the spirit of pressures associated with the maintenance of it. One gentleman has a popular website that is convincing people that they can live quite well with only 100 objects with careful discernment, as he has done for himself.

Dr. Geoffrey Miller, an evolutionary psychologist

The Jordan Ministry Team Sharers in Ministry

We offer: • Level One and Two certification classes for teachers and catechists • Courses on theology and spirituality • Advent and Lenten Series • Retreats and Days of Recollection • Other programming to fit the needs of your faith community

22

PROTECTING OUR CHILDREN PAUL DUCKRO, Ph.D

High tech, low tech background checks for our diocesan Safe Environment Program.

In the video, we listen to the chilling account by a child molester who specialized in church settings. He describes how he infiltrated churches, committing his crimes against children while hiding in plain sight.

The video helps us to understand that child molesters can look like ordinary people who work their way into the heart of a church community by being pleasant and useful.

As they gain trust, they gradually take liberties with the behavioral limits built into the policies – like the Code of Conduct and Standing Operating Procedures (SOPs) of

That All May Know the Savior A reflection on the challenges and joys of ministry from the Jordan Ministry Team

Fr. Joe Rodrigues

Living a simpler life may be recession’s virtue claims, “The fundamental consumerist delusion is that purchases affect the way we’re treated. The grand edifice of brand name consumerism rests on the narcissistic fantasy that everyone else cares about what we buy.” In other words, “I consume, therefore I am?”

If we read scripture carefully, Jesus did not promote a lifestyle of material poverty, but moreso challenged people on the dangers of greed in accumulating wealth and called his followers to a life of simplicity by sharing their goods with others in need. As Rev. Ed Hayes, a Catholic spiritual writer, points out, “Jesus taught them about holy abundance, not holy deficiency: ‘I have come that you may have life and have it in great abundance,’ Jn. 10:10. It does not require possessions, but rather being possessed by God!” Having just celebrated my 20th anniversary of religious profession as a Salvatorian, Society of the Divine Savior, I

SEPTEMBER 2009 EVENTS BY JORDAN MINISTRY TEAM

Sept. 2-Rebecca at SEAS-Level I in Spanish-Los Sacramentos de Sanación: Sacramentos de los Enfermos y Reconciliación-6:30-8:30 pm Sept. 9-Rebecca at SEAS-Level I in Spanish-Los Sacramentos de la Vocación Cristiana-6:30-8:30 pm Sept. 11-Peggy at All Saints, Sierra Vista-CST-Culture & Faith-1:00-3:00 pm Sept. 11 & 12-All-CFP-St. Francis de Sales-Friday evening & Saturday, All day Sept. 16-JMT Advisory Board Meeting at St. Ambrose-7:30-9:00 am Sept. 17-Peggy-CST-at SEAS-Culture & Faith Sept. 18-Peggy-CST-at OMOS & St. Joseph-Culture & Faith Sept. 23-Peggy-CST-at Lourdes Elem & H.S. with Sacred Heart in Nogales-Culture & Faith Sept. 25-Peggy-CST at St. Charles, San Carlos-Culture & Faith Sept. 28-Rebecca at St. John’s-Level I in Spanish-Diversidad Cultural y la Fe-6:00-8:00 pm Call JMT for registration form 520-623-2563

our Safe Environment Program – written for their particular ministry.

If they are not called on these violations, child molesters know that they are safe to act out.

They are a small percentage of all the persons who so generously give their time to carry out the ministries of churches, but that small percentage does untold damage if they are not detected in time.

The video – as does the newspaper story – also emphasizes for us just how critical it is to follow through on background checks for any person new to a parish or school community.

If you are an employee or volunteer at a parish or school, you will see the video during these next few months. I hope that it will encourage you to advocate for and follow the policies and procedures that your parish or school has put into place to protect those that our parishes and schools serve and those, like you, who provide the service.

If you are a parishioner or member of a school family, I hope this column will give you the confidence that the persons responsible for the care of children at your parish or school are receiving education that will help them to recognize child molesters and to respond to situations that put a child’s safety at risk. have been reflecting on my own vow of poverty. Many of us who have taken vows of poverty in apostolic religious societies do not live what most people define as poverty – we are not destitute, impoverished, or missing basic needs like many who have not made this vow formally. Though we do not personally own the things that we have, we do have resources, make use of them, and share them. More realistically, we are speaking about a vow that means detachment from possessions and a willingness to struggle in living a life of simplicity, so that we are free to minister and focus on meeting the needs of others. This lifestyle choice is meant to give witness to the world that our possessions are not our purpose in life. It is interesting to see how the current reality is inspiring people to find alternative ways to cope with less and are realizing the wisdom of simplifying their lives. It can be seen as another example of the mystery of grace. It shows how the Spirit is always working through difficult times and can turn challenging situations around for our benefit, if only we have eyes to see and ears to hear it.

I am grateful to all those who are making personal commitments to seek the simple joys in life and give witness to us all that less can be more. It is challenging and very inspiring to us who can lose sight of what we formally made a vow to do: To live simply so that others can simply live.

WENDY’S

Complete line of items for baptisms Specializing in special orders

15% off with this ad

I-19 & Ajo Way, Tucson • Santa Cruz Plaza • 624-4143 & Walmart Center • Sierra Vista • 458-8115

THE NEW VISION - LA NUEVA VISIÓN OF THE ROMAN CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF TUCSON • WWW.NEWVISIONONLINE.ORG • SEPTEMBER 2009

parish count by region The northeastern quadrant of the U.S. has seen a decline in the number of parishes since 1970. numbers are up in other regions. parish count byParish region

‘Exciting ride’ ends Emily Christensen, now a freshman at Salpointe High School, will have to settle for being the best young scientist in the state of Arizona this year.

Emily, as an eighth grader at Sts. Peter and Paul School, had been in the running as one of 50 state semifinalists for “America’s Top Young Scientist” but she was not chosen as one the 10 finalists in the Discovery Education 3M Young Scientist Challenge.

“It’s been an exciting ride,” her mom, Ann Christensen, told The New Vision, “and we’re very proud of her.”

The northeastern quadrantdecrease of the U.S. seen a decline in the number sincehas 1970 parishes in 2008 of parishes since 1970. Parish numbers are increase since 1970up in other regions. decrease since 1970 WEST NORTH increase sincecENTRaL 1970 888 2,671 +165 WEST NORTH MOUNTaiN -127 cENTRaL 888 2,671 ND MONT +165 -127 MINN

parishes in 2008

WASH

ORE

IDAHO

WASH

AIMS results better in Diocesan schools The results of the 2009 AIMS tests show that elementary students in the schools of the Diocese of Tucson generally have a better grasp of math, science, reading and writing than their counterparts attending Arizona’s public schools.

In all but one subject – eighth grade math – the Catholic school students’ averages in the “meets or exceeds” categories surpassed those in the public schools.

The results:

Reading

Grade 3 Grade 4 Grade 5 Grade 6 Grade 7 Grade 8

Diocese of Tucson 80 82 85 81 86 85

Arizona 72 72 73 71 73 69

Writing

Grade 3 Grade 4 Grade 5 Grade 6 Grade 7 Grade 8

Diocese of Tucson 87 93 91 92 94 97

Arizona 79 83 79 86 83 86

Math

Diocese of Tucson Arizona Grade 3 78 72 Grade 4 78 74 Grade 5 78 72 Grade 6 73 68 Grade 7 83 73 Grade 8 71 73 Science

Diocese of Tucson Arizona Grade 3 Grade 4 62 58 Grade 5 Grade 6 Grade 7 Grade 8 65 56

How to combat youth drinking

+169

CALIF

MONT

NEB

NEV IDAHO UTAH

Pacific

SD

COLO WYO

1,648

NEV

ARIZ UTAH

CALIF

IOWA MINN ILL

WIS

KAN

MO

ALASKA

NM

IND TENN

LA

OKLA

ARK

LA

HAWAII

WEST SOUTH cENTRaL

HAWAII

WV

NY

VA PENN NC MD

WV GA

SC VA NC

TENN

SC EaST SOUTH FLA ALA MISS cENTRaL GA

680 +91

EaST SOUTH cENTRaL

1,742

-563PENN

OHIO

ALA KY

NY

MD

KY

ARK MO

TEXAS

OHIO

MAINE

-258

NH

3,300

MICH

ILL

OKLA KAN

TEXAS

ALASKA

IND

IOWA

1,406

-563

3,809

MISS ARIZ

3,300

MiD aTLaNTic

-340

NEB NM COLO

-258

-340

EaST NORTH cENTRaL

MICH

ND

1,406

MiD aTLaNTic NEW ENGLaND

3,809

WYO ORE

+169

EaST NORTH cENTRaL

WIS

SD

Pacific

1,648

NEW ENGLaND

MOUNTaiN

VT

MASS

RI CONN MAINE

NH NJ VT DEL MASS DC RI CONN NJ

SOUTH

DEL aTLaNTic DC

1,533

+440

SOUTH aTLaNTic

1,533 +440

FLA

680

+309

WEST SOUTH cENTRaL

+91

1,742

Numbers do not include 564 Eastern-rite parishes in the U.S. Source: Official Catholic Directory

+309

©2009 CNS

Numbers do not include 564 Eastern-rite parishes in the U.S.

The Church in transition

Source: Official Catholic Directory

©2009 CNS

Growth in south, west, buck national trend The downsizing trend in Roman Catholic parishes largely is affecting churches in the Northeast and the Midwest, and disappearing are the days when parishes could be within walking distance of each other, each serving a different nationality.

On the other hand, in areas where the Catholic population is growing -- primarily in the American West and in the Deep South -- church officials are seeing burgeoning parishes. In some cases, including the Diocese of Tucson, new parish communities are being established.

In 2007 in the Archdiocese of Los Angeles, for example, more than 95,400 infants were baptized in 287 parishes, according to the Official Catholic Directory. That’s an average of 332 children in each parish, or nearly one every day.

That contrasts with the pastoral life of some parishes being closed where less than 10 baptisms annually are the norm.

The list of dioceses experiencing closings and mergers in recent years is growing, according to Catholic News Service reports: -- Boston: 65 of 267 parishes closed or merged in 2004 and 2005.

-- Camden, N.J.: 56 of 124 parishes to merge starting in 2009.

-- New York: 10 parishes closed and 11 others merged in 2007.

-- Syracuse, N.Y.: 36 of 173 parishes

closed since 2006, with another 17 set to close as pastors retire.

-- Allentown, Pa.: 47 of 151 parishes closed in 2008.

-- Greensburg, Pa.: 15 of 100 parishes closed in 2008.

-- Scranton, Pa.: more than 100 parishes closing or merging between 2008 and 2012.

Overall, data compiled by the Official Catholic Directory show that the number of parishes peaked in 1992 at 19,971. In the 2009 edition of the directory, which reflects information gathered in 2008, there were 18,674 parishes, a decline of 1,297 (6.5 percent) in 15 years.

Even as the frequency of parish suppressions and mergers increases, the Catholic Church in America remains strong, said Marti Jewell, the outgoing director of the Emerging Models of Pastoral Leadership, a 6-year-old collaborative effort between six national organizations studying the changing structure of parishes.

Jewell called the current trend that is emerging -- fewer parishes, fewer priests and greater involvement of lay leaders -“the most amazing paradigm shift” in the history of the U.S. Catholic Church. She said the shift is a natural evolution four decades after the Second Vatican Council.

“We are where we are,” Jewell said.

“There is no going back.”

Every day, underage youth in Pima Coun- the support of the CPC so that people of ty who drink alcohol risk the danger of any age can leave an anonymous recordpermanent brain damage, injury or death, ed message about upcoming underage as well as place themselves in compromis- drinking parties or other alcohol-related ing positions for sexual and other physi- violations such as stores, bars or restaurants not appropriately checking IDs of youth for cal assaults.

The Pima County Community Preven- alcohol purchases and establishments who tion Coalition, in coordination with the over-serve adults.

The tip line is not a replacement for Tucson Police Department, has established a tip line to help in the prevention of under- 911 telephone emergencies but rather a message line to which police will determine age drinking The phone number, 837-SAFE (837- how and when to respond.

7233), was activated by the police with SEPTEMBER 2009 • THE NEW VISION - LA NUEVA VISIÓN OF THE ROMAN CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF TUCSON • WWW.NEWVISIONONLINE.ORG

23

Sale of specialty crafts, food to aid world’s poor How would you like to get your Christmas shopping done early – and at the same time help struggling small-scale artisans and farmers all over the world?

You can do this by purchasing highquality handicrafts and specialty food items at Tucson’s Most Holy Trinity Parish on Oct. 31 after the 4 p.m. Mass and on Nov. 1 after the Masses at 7:30 a.m., 9 a.m., 11 a.m. and 1 p.m..

The unique items offered are produced by 90 small groups in 36 countries around the world, from Nepal to Madagascar and many places in between.

“When you buy a gift you give a gift, to yourself, to the recipient of the gift and to the artist, who receives 85 percent of the selling price,” said Mari Ann Finlayson, who is helping to organize the sale, which is open to the general public.

Called “Work of Human Hands,” the program is a partnership between Catholic Relief Services and SEERV International designed to promote human dignity and self-sufficiency and “eradicate poverty where it resides.”

At the sale at Most Holy Trinity Parish, some goods will be available on site while

others can be ordered from the “Work of Human Hands” catalog, Finlayson said.

Jewelry, woven baskets, pottery, woodcarved items, tablecloths and pillows, handbags and totes are just some of the offerings, along with candy, coffee, nuts, cooking oils and other food items. There are ceramics, nativity scenes, Christmas ornaments, scarves, children’s items and some religious items, and some linens too.

The items are crafted and painted in ways that represent the culture of the artisans’ native land, and every item purchased includes a note describing its origin, Finlayson said.

The sale at Most Holy Trinity Parish is one of two held there each year, the other being during the parish festival in April, Finlayson said.

“Anybody can help out from other parishes, and anyone can come to buy,” she said. “This is not a parish fundraiser, it’s to raise funds for those in other countries… to allow them to stay home and support themselves.”

For information about the sale, call Mari Ann at the parish, 520-884-9021, and leave a message.

A historical event. A timeless message.

A BOOK THAT BRINGS THEM TOGETHER.

In Stores Now Nearly 500 years ago, the apparition of Our Lady of Guadalupe to St. Juan Diego changed the future of an entire hemisphere. A people that had never known Christ before chose to follow him in record time and numbers.

Far from being an isolated incident, her apparition still calls us to our own conversion today.

In Our Lady of Guadalupe: Mother of the Civilization of Love, explore with authors Carl Anderson and Msgr. Chávez the historical context and details of her apparition, and see how the message of Our Lady of Guadalupe remains as relevant to our lives today as it was to those living in Mexico City in December 1531.

“Life Enrichment, Comfort, Care, Community, and Unity” Villa Maria Care Center Provides a Comprehensive Rehabilitation Program with Consistent, Dedicated and Reliable Service.

• Physical, Speech & Occupational Therapy • Medicare/Medicaid Qualified

• 24 Skilled Nursing Care •Assisted Living Apartments

Pastoral Care

Providing opportunities for personal and spiritual growth.

• Daily Mass • Library of spiritual books, music, movies

• Non-denominational Services • Discussions on various spiritual topics

Tours Are Always Welcomed!

Questions, Concerns or Needs - Please Call (520) 323-9351 We are here to help you!

4310 E. Grant Road, Tucson, AZ 85712 www.villamariacc.com 24

On the tilma, miraculously preserved for nearly five centuries, is a message encoded for all time and all people living in this hemisphere: a message from our Mother calling all of us to build a Civilization of Love.

www.GuadalupeBook.com “This compelling, informative, immensely readable book is a fitting tribute to [Our Lady of Guadalupe]. It reminds all of us who are ‘Americans’ — North or South, and whatever our native tongue — that we are one Christian family, loved by the same Mother and her Son, spanning an entire hemisphere, and joined in a common vocation to create a civilization of love. Read these pages. They will renew your heart.”

— Most Rev. Charles J. Chaput, O.F.M. Cap., Archbishop of Denver “Our Lady of Guadalupe is a must-read for all Americans who want to understand why the beloved Patroness of the Americas is rightly called the ‘Mother of the civilization of love,’ and why only under her mantle, the Catholics of this continent will be able to finally carry out the New Evangelization dreamed of by Pope John Paul II and encouraged by Pope Benedict.”

— Alejandro Bermudez, Editor ACI Prensa and Catholic News Agency www.DoubledayReligion.com

THE NEW VISION - LA NUEVA VISIÓN OF THE ROMAN CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF TUCSON • WWW.NEWVISIONONLINE.ORG • SEPTEMBER 2009