Synod opens with call on Africans to be forces for justice, peace
Catholic san Francisco Northern California’s Weekly Catholic Newspaper
(CNS PHOTO/PAUL HARING)
By Cindy Wooden
Bishops attend a session of the Synod of Bishops for Africa at the Vatican Oct. 6. The Synod will continue through Oct. 25.
VATICAN CITY (CNS) – Reconciled with one another and committed to justice, African Catholics must become active forces for justice and peace on the continent, said Cardinal Peter Turkson of Cape Coast, Ghana. “On a continent, parts of which live under the shadow of conflict and death, the church must sow seeds of life,” said the cardinal as he opened the work of the second special Synod of Bishops for Africa Oct. 5. As recording secretary of the synod, Cardinal Turkson presented a theological reflection on the assembly’s theme and its scriptural motto: “The Church in Africa at the Service of Reconciliation, Justice and Peace. ‘You are the salt of the earth. ... You are the light of the world.’” The cardinal also outlined the realities of Africa and of the church that the assembly should keep in mind during its discussions, looking particularly at religious, social, political and economic realities. The church, he said, “must preserve the continent and its people from the putrefying effects of hatred, violence, injustice and ethnocentrism.” “The church must purify and heal minds and hearts of corrupt and evil ways and administer her life-giving Gospel message to keep the continent and its people alive, preserving them in the path of virtue and Gospel values, such as reconciliation, justice and peace,” Cardinal Turkson said. SYNOD, page 6
By John Thavis VATICAN CITY (CNS) – The long path to official sainthood is drawing to a close in October for Blessed Damien de Veuster, a missionary priest famed for his work with leprosy patients in Hawaii, and Blessed Jeanne Jugan, foundress of the Little Sisters of the Poor. Pope Benedict XVI will canonize the two and three others Oct. 11 at St. Peter’s Basilica at the Vatican. Both Blessed Damien and Blessed Jeanne are important figures for U.S. Catholics, and reflect the pope’s priority on the faith as charity in action, especially toward society’s outcasts and forgotten. Neither was born in the United States, but both continue to have a major impact there, and hundreds of U.S. pilgrims will be descending on Rome for the canonization liturgy in St. Peter’s Square. Blessed Damien, a Belgian-born member of the Congregation of the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary, is renowned for having spent the last 16 years of his life ministering to patients with Hansen’s disease, or leprosy, on the island of Molokai in Hawaii. At that time, in the mid-19th century, lepers were considered outcasts and leprosy was an incurable disease. Blessed Jeanne grew up in revolutionary
France and formed a small prayer community. In 1839, at the age of 47, she brought home a sick and blind elderly widow, giving the woman her own bed. Eventually, caring for the abandoned elderly became the primary focus of her religious order, and remains so today for the approximately 2,700 Little Sisters of the Poor. The two new saints were models of personal holiness and self-sacrifice, and epitomize the church’s long record of service in health care. But in their own day they were not necessarily known as heroes. Blessed Damien sailed for Hawaii in 1864, was ordained a priest and served there for eight years. When a priest was needed for the leprosy settlement on the island of Molokai in 1873, he volunteered. He found himself essentially alone as pastor, doctor, adviser and guardian to the approximately 800 residents suffering from the disease. His tough and practical methods antagonized many civil and religious authorities, who considered him headstrong and bothersome, but he undoubtedly left the patient inhabitants of the island better off. He organized the residents into a community, built a hospital, an orphanage and a church, helped the village get piped water and even started up a brass band.
(CNS PHOTO/COURTESY OF THE LITTLE SISTERS OF THE POOR)
Charity in action: Impact of new saints continues in United States
Blessed Jeanne Jugan, foundress of the Little Sisters of the Poor, and Blessed Damien of Molokai, will be canonized at the Vatican Oct. 11. After contracting the disease himself, he experimented on himself with new treatments. He was, as he wrote, “at one with the lepers.” Following his death at the age of 49 five years later, centers were established in his name for patients with leprosy and, in more recent years, HIV and AIDS. Many hope he will be named the patron saint of those with HIV/AIDS and leprosy.
For Blessed Jeanne, recognition came long after her death – even in her own religious order. At one point, she was replaced as superior of the Little Sisters and sent out to beg on behalf of the poor. She was later placed in retirement, and when she died in 1879 the younger members of her order didn’t even know she was the foundress. NEW SAINTS, page 13
INSIDE THIS WEEK’S EDITION New SHCP theater . . . . . . . . 5 Vocations’ stories . . . . . . 8-11 Little Sisters rejoice . . . . . . 13 Letters & Commentary . 14-15 Archbishop’s Journal. . . . . . 17
National, local Red Mass ~ Page 4 ~ October 9, 2009
Blessing of animals News in brief ~ Page 12 ~
Scripture reflection ~ Page 16 ~
ONE DOLLAR
Catholics help victims . . . . 18 Film & Datebook . . . . . 20-21
www.catholic-sf.org VOLUME 11
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Catholic San Francisco
October 9, 2009
it was the first time in the tournament’s 28 years that someone actually shot the hole-in-one that always promises a big prize. Insurance against the win covers the cost of the car, Kathy told me, making it necessary for every shot to the prize green to be witnessed and verified. All I can say is ‘Congrats and Wow!’ Congrats, too, to Anabelle Dayrit, a longtime nurse at Seton in Daly City who won a By Tom Burke Toyota Prius in the day’s big raffle…. My apologies for mixing up some of the info regarding Enes and Elio Ciardella’s Anne Balestrieri Warda has been selected to represent recent wedding anniversary. That said, the Italian Community as their 2009 Queen Isabella. Anne here is the word-for-word so nicely sent is a graduate of St. Brendan’s School and Mercy High to me by the couple’s daughter Nancy. School, and is currently a senior at the University of San Congratulations to Enes and Elio Francisco. Her major is Psychology with a minor in Child Ciardella of Our Lady of Angels Parish and Youth Studies. Her parents, John and Nina Warda, in Burlingame who recently celebrated their 60th wedding are proud that their daughter will anniversary. A trip represent the Italian Community to Pasta Moon at with great honor and commitHole-in-one golfer Bill Avery and ABC 7 meteorologist, Mike Nicco. Half Moon Bay ment. The 141st Columbus with family and Day/Italian Heritage Parade friends marked the will take place on October milestone. Included were daughter, Mafi, and Jay, director of music at Junipero Serra High 11….Definitely among this Nancy (Michael) Thompson, sons School since 1977, recently recorded a CD featuring songs year’s ‘believe it or nots’ is Bill - Bob (Bessie) Ciardella, Roy they sing at Mass and three traditional Tongan hymns. Avery’s hole-in-one at Seton (Suzanne) Ciardella and Richard The title, “Companions on the Journey,” was inspired by Medical Center Foundation’s Ciardella, and grandchildren - one of their favorites. Details at jmused@comcast.net... annual charity golf tournament Michelle, Jimmy, Christina, Nolan Emma Kurr, sixth grader at Belmont’s Notre Dame in August. The 185-yard ace and Nathan…. Congratulations to Elementary School, won Grand Champion Reserve won the golfer a Toyota Camry. Joyce and Dan McNulty of St. for her Single Fryer Rabbit at this summer’s San Mateo The event raised $160,000 that Charles Parish, San Carlos, who County Fair. Emma has been in 4-H for five years and will benefit the foundation and Joyce and Dan McNulty on April 4th, celebrated their 50th this was her third year Daughter of Charity work at wedding anniversary with family in the rabbit project. Seton Medical Center in Daly City and on the San Mateo coast. “The proceeds from this and friends. Both native San Franciscans, the happy cou- Emma’s proud folks event will be used to support critical services at our Seton ple, initially introduced by their respective younger sisters, are Elizabeth and Coastside facility and purchase equipment for Seton’s married at St. Paul’s, raised their three daughters - Karen, Vince Kurr. Brother Breast Health Center,” said Kathy King, executive direc- Terri and Maureen - and are adored by their seven grand- Benjamin, a Notre tor of the Seton Medical Center Foundation. Kathy said children. Thanks to daughter, Terri Bedel for fillin’ us in. Dame fourth grader, is …Joyce and Dan share their wedding date with my also in 4-H but not yet cousin Kathy Radcliffe and her hub, Jimmy, of Northeast competing….This is Philadelphia. I was still in grade school when they married an empty space withand remember it well. My brother Shawn – Kathy’s god- out you. Send items son – was ring bearer. I always loved weddings and when I via e-mail to burket@ was growing up there were tons of them. Weddings always sfarchdiocese.org and had olives, which I loved, and pizzelles, which I was also by ground to “Street,” crazy for…. Speaking of shared wedding dates, Jay One Peter Yorke Jordan and Peter Mafi have been leading song together Way, San Francisco at St. Timothy, San Mateo’s Sunday 9 a.m. Mass since 94109. Electronic pho1991 but just recently became aware they share – well tos should be jpegs at they and their wives share – the same wedding date, Sept. 300 dpi. No zip files, 6. Jay and his wife, June, who wed at St. Bartholomew please. Hard copy Parish in San Mateo, are the longer wed, 29 years. Peter photos are also weland his wife, Nui, who took their vows at St. Tim’s, have come sent to the Peter been married for 12 years. Appropriately enough, the 9 Yorke Way address. o’clock Mass September 6 was offered for the couples. I can be reached at Peter, brother of Archbishop of Tonga, Soane Patita Paini (415) 614-5634. Anne Balestrieri Warda Emma Kurr
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Catholic San Francisco
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)PHOTOS BY JOSE LUIS AGUIRRE/CATHOLIC SAN FRANCISCO)
“Illuminating the darkness�
San Francisco Auxiliary Bishop William Justice was principal celebrant at an English-Spanish Mass Oct. 2 at Mission Dolores Basilica to raise awareness of domestic violence. The Mass was organized by Ministers of Light, a survivor-led ministry based in multiple parishes in the Archdiocese of San Francisco. The vision of the group is that all parishes in the archdiocese are places of healing and support for victims and survivors of domestic violence. At right, Rozanne Southorn, a member of Ministers of Light from St. Pius Parish in Redwood City, prays during the liturgy. An unidentified woman hugs a young boy. &RQJUDWXODWLRQV WR WKH /LWWOH 6LVWHUV RI WKH 3RRU RQ WKH FDQRQL]DWLRQ RI \RXU IRXQGUHVV 6U -HDQQH -XJDQ IURP WKH &DOLIRUQLD 3URYLQFH -HVXLWV
Solemn Veneration of the Relic of
Saint Damien of Molokai Thursday, October 15, 2009 7:30 p.m.
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WORLD Mission Sunday “ a Eucharistic celebration for all the missions of the world �
October 18, 2009 THE PROPAGATION OF THE FAITH ... A PONTIFICAL MISSION SOCIETY www.onefamilyinmission.org
Please join us for this historic evening of prayer and inspiration including: x x x x
Monsignor Mo M ons nsig igno n r John E. Kozar + National Director 0 We W est st 36 36th 6th SStreet, 8th Floor + New York NY 10018 70 West 212.563.8700 + www.onefamilyinmission.org
The reception and veneration of the newly canonized Saint Damien’s relic Traditional Hawaiian chant and movement Casey Groves performing scenes of the award winning one man show “Damien� The Archbishop’s solemn blessing with the relic of Saint Damien
Cathedral of Saint Mary of the Assumption 1111 Gough Street at Geary Boulevard San Francisco, CA 94109
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Catholic San Francisco
October 9, 2009
In nation’s capital, Cardinal urges leaders to show God’s justice ubiquitous, the invocation of the Holy Spirit at the beginning of the judicial year is appropriate and WASHINGTON (CNS) – Speaking at the 56th necessary,” Cardinal DiNardo said in his homily. annual Red Mass in the nation’s capital, Cardinal Referring to Pope Benedict XVI’s Pentecost Daniel N. DiNardo of Galveston-Houston said Sunday homily earlier this year on the Holy Spirit, today’s followers of Christ must allow God’s word Cardinal DiNardo said the pontiff noted how to abide in their hearts and, guided by the Holy people are concerned about the quality of the air Spirit, they must show God’s justice in the world. they breathe, but their relationship with God and “Graced in this manner, we respond in our with each other can also become stagnant and need personal lives of faith and witness and in our profesthe fresh breeze of the Holy Spirit. sional lives too, not only for the good of our souls “Further, the ‘fire’ of the Holy Spirit purifies but also for the sake of our professions,” said the what has become polluted, within each disciple cardinal, who delivered the homily at the Oct. 4 Red and within the church. Such purification especially Mass at the Cathedral of St. Matthew the Apostle. affects the tongue, the place where the mind and The annual Mass is sponsored by the John the heart physically crease our environmental space Carroll Society, a Washington-area organization in speech, action and decision,” the cardinal said. that provides spiritual, intellectual and social Speaking of the “clients” served by those in the opportunities for Catholic professionals. legal profession, Cardinal DiNardo said, “They are The Red Mass invokes God’s blessings and poor and wealthy, confused and lucid, polite and guidance on the administration of justice under the impolite. In some cases the clients are voiceless power of the Holy Spirit, a centuries-old tradition. for they lack influence; in others they are literally Washington Archbishop Donald W. Wuerl and Cardinal Daniel N. DiNardo The Mass in Washington is traditionally held on the voiceless, not yet with tongues and even without of Galveston-Houston leave the Cathedral of St. Matthew the Apostle with Sunday before the first Monday in October, when names, and require our most careful attention and U.S. Chief Justice John Roberts and his wife, Jane, following the Supreme Court usually begins its new session. radical support.” the 56th annual Red Mass in Washington Oct. 4. Public officials at the Red Mass included Vice Prayers were offered at the Mass for governPresident Joe Biden, Secretary of Transportation ment and church leaders, and for the protection Ray LaHood and Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar. Six priests, all wearing red vestments. The red color of the vestments of all human rights, especially the right to life of every human members of the U.S. Supreme Court attended the Mass: John G. comes from the color of fire, a symbol of the Holy Spirit. being. Roberts Jr., the chief justice of the United States, and Associate The 1,250 people at the Red Mass included judges, diploIn his homily, Cardinal DiNardo noted how in the first Justices Antonin Scalia, Anthony M. Kennedy, Stephen G. mats, government officials, university presidents and law school reading, the prophet Isaiah described the “servant of the Lord Breyer, Samuel A. Alito Jr. and Sonia Sotomayor. deans and professors. ... (who) brings God’s saving action. This is the real notion of Washington Archbishop Donald W. Wuerl was the main “In this federal city where the role of lawyer and judge is so justice, not an abstraction but the vivid understanding of deed celebrant at the Red Mass, joined by six other bishops and many important and where the legal profession is so prominent, even and word together accomplishing integrity everywhere.” (CNS PHOTO/NANCY WIECHEC)
By Mark Zimmermann
Annual Red Mass Oct. 22; St. Thomas More award goes to Justice Dondero By Tom Burke In San Francisco, Archbishop George H. Niederauer will be principal celebrant and homilist at the St. Thomas More Society’s Red Mass Oct. 22 at St. Peter and Paul Church in North Beach. Justice Robert L. Dondero of the California State Court of Appeals will be honored with the society’s annual St. Thomas More Award. Justice Dondero, a graduate of Archbishop Riordan High School, completed undergraduate work at Santa Clara University in 1967 and earned a law degree from Boalt Hall School of Law at UC Berkeley in 1970. He is a former San Francisco deputy district attorney and served in the Office of the United States Attorney for the Northern District of California from 1978 to 1992. He was appointed to the Municipal Court of San Francisco in 1992 and to the Superior Court in 1993. He was named to California’s First District Court of Appeals in 2009.
“I am very honored I have received this According to the St. Thomas More Society, award,” Justice Dondero told Catholic San the St. Thomas More Award is presented to a Francisco. “I am also humbled by it since person who exemplifies the ideals of service I can think of others more deserving than and sacrifice in the pursuit of justice so conmyself. More was a man of great character. I, spicuously reflected in the life and death of St. myself, have tried to be a person of integrity Thomas More. as I practice the profession of the law. Perhaps ”The Red Mass continues a tradition begun this award reflects some acknowledgement of by English barristers and judges in the 13th this effort.” century of offering prayers to the Holy Spirit Justice Dondero and his wife, Liz, are memthat all men and women in the legal profession, bers of St. Ignatius Parish in San Francisco and the judiciary and the public life be blessed with wisdom and understanding,” St. Thomas More Justice Robert L. Dondero regular supporters of Catholic Charities CYO of Society President Gregory Schopf told Catholic San Francisco. the Archdiocese of San Francisco. “First District Court of Appeal Justice Robert Dondero is “Liz and Bob Dondero are gifts to the Church,” said Jesuit chosen this year to receive the award because of his commitment Father Charles Gagan, pastor at St. Ignatius and who will to public service, preparedness and scholarship throughout his concelebrate the Red Mass. The Dondero’s adult daughters, ANNUAL RED MASS, page 5 distinguished career,” Schopf said.
Shrine of Saint Jude Thaddeus, Dominican Friars
Saint Jude Novena Oct. 20-28, 2009 Masses: Mon.-Sat.: 8 a.m. & 5:30 p.m. Sunday 11:30 a.m. Pilgrimage Processional: Sat. Oct. 24 from St. Peter’s Church (1237 Alabama St. at 24th St.) Preacher of the Novena, to St. Dominic’s Church Fr. Mark Padrez, O.P. 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. bi-lingual Mass (Eng. & Spanish) at 12:30 p.m.
Novena in St. Dominic’s Catholic Church 2390 Bush St., San Francisco, CA 94115 ÁPlenty of ParkingË Send petitions to: Shrine of St. Jude Thaddeus, Father Martin de Porres Walsh, O.P., P.O.Box 15368, San Francisco, CA 94115-0368 www.stjude-shrine.org 415-931-5919
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Catholic San Francisco
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New theater at Catholic high school will add “pizzazz� to performing arts By Michael Vick Construction has begun on a new 300-seat theater complex at Sacred Heart Cathedral Preparatory in San Francisco, marking the opening salvo in the school’s revitalization plan, “2020 Vision.� Set to open in fall 2010, the theater will occupy a formerly open courtyard at the school’s De Paul Campus, located at the corner of Ellis and Gough Streets. Eileen Clisham, SHCP’s director of communications, said the school’s investment in the performing arts bucks the trend seen around the country in public schools. “It is such a great feeling to be a part of a school that is building a theater at a time when such programs are getting back-burnered at some schools due to tough economic times,� Clisham said. “SHCP certainly is fortunate and has been blessed with leaders so committed to the vision of the school’s founders.� School staff told Catholic San Francisco the new building will solve two problems: first, since SHCP opened its La Salle campus in 1980, the courtyard has increasingly fallen
Annual Red Mass . . . n Continued from page 4
Christina and Alison are also members of St. Ignatius. “I count them among my closest friends, which means they sometimes to get to ask their pastor to dinner,� Father Gagan said with a laugh. “Bob is a member of our finance committee and advises the parish in some legal matters and Liz, a very gifted singer, is a member of our choir and volunteers with our shelter meal program.� Father Gagan was among those present for Justice Dondero’s swearing in ceremony for the appeals court. “I heard people speak of his accomplishments and the influence he has had
into disuse; second, the school’s present theater, a repurposed cafeteria, is inadequate to faculty and student needs. Adjacent to the construction site of its replacement, the current theater has less than half the seating capacity, no dedicated backstage and no dressing rooms for productions requiring costumes. Christian Bohm, director of music at SHCP, said the old theater’s inadequacies forced many performances to be held outside the school. Bohm said the new facility will give the school’s music program a venue equal to the talent of its students, who have performed at venues around the country, at the Vatican and elsewhere in Europe. “In effect, we will soon have a professional theatre with all of the technical needs that are required, whereas before we were doing shows in a cafeteria with lights strung up,� Bohm said. “The architectural plans on paper are as close to perfect as I could envision given the space and financial considerations.� Francine Torres-Kelly, director of the school’s drama department, said the new theespecially in juvenile justice and the care he takes with each case,� Father Gagan said. “His Catholic heritage and family have remained very important to him.� “Bob and Liz Dondero have been devoted members of Catholic Charities CYO’s Circle of Angels for the last several years, as well as supporters of St. Vincent’s School for Boys,� said Jeff Bialik, executive director of Catholic Charities CYO. “Through their generous and loyal support, Catholic Charities CYO has been able to serve those who count on us for help.� The St. Thomas More Society of San Francisco was founded in 1937 and is the oldest fellowship of Catholic lawyers, law students, paralegals and judges in the West. Information about the Red Mass is available at www.stthomasmore-sf.org.
ater will broaden the scope of the performing arts at SHCP. “We will be able to do full-length productions with bigger casts, offer more musical concert series and further develop the dance program that is just starting to bloom,� TorresKelly said. “We have an abundance of talent here that really deserves more audience than we have been able to accommodate.� Once the new theater is complete, the old space will be converted into two large rooms for the music department. John Vigo, SHCP’s director of institutional advancement, said the school hopes to have the space completed by the time the new theater opens but the timing will be contingent upon funding. Kirsten De Leon, 17 and a senior SHCP student, said while construction has been a minor inconvenience, the results will be positive. “It will give the productions to come that extra pizzazz that we all want,� De Leon said. “I would have liked for it to have been built a year earlier, but that’s just me being jealous. I can’t wait to sit in those new cushioned chairs watching my friends act next year. I hope the new theater encourages more people to discover the arts and develop an appreciation that they may not have had before.�
The “Vision 2020� project includes plans for a new science and technology center, an expanded athletics field, an aquatics center and additional parking, all pending funds. The school will also enhance its curriculum, with additional advanced placement courses, new distance learning capabilities and the continued incorporation of technology in the classroom. To remain accessible for students of all economic backgrounds, Vigo said SHCP is working to increase the amount of funding available for scholarships while continuing to grow the school’s endowment. Live video of the construction in progress can be viewed from the school’s website, www.shcp.edu. Under the “QuickLinks� tab at the top-right, select “Live Construction Webcam.� Owned by the Archdiocese of San Francisco and sponsored by the De La Salle Christian Brothers and the Daughters of Charity, Sacred Heart Cathedral Preparatory was the first high school to offer Catholic co-education in San Franciscao. The school was formed in 1987 from the merging of two of the city’s oldest Catholic high schools, Sacred Heart High School, founded in 1874, and Cathedral High School, founded in 1852.
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Catholic San Francisco
October 9, 2009
Synod . . .
(CNS PHOTO/PAUL HARING)
pollution and climate change having a devastating impact on a continent where extreme weather already leads to drought, famine and n Continued from cover desertification. Before the cardinal spoke to the synod The first synod for Africa, held 15 years assembly, Pope Benedict XVI opened the ago, took place amid “a predominantly pesmeeting with a spiritual reflection, calling the simistic world view of Africa,” he said. synod members to listen to the Holy Spirit While some problems continue, the cardinal and to recognize that every blessing and every said, the church in Africa has grown numerichallenge is a result of human beings’ relationcally; the number of armed conflicts on the conship with God. tinent has decreased; more Africans are being “If this is not correct, we cannot arrive at elected or appointed to leadership positions in the truth, and this is the source of all the vices international religious orders; and the number of that destroy social relationships and peace in Catholic universities has grown along with the the world,” he said. “Things are going wrong number of Catholics professionally prepared for in the world because our relationship with God work in the church, in politics and business. is not in order.” Still, he said, the Catholic Church barely Social, political and economic analyses of exists in much of North Africa; some priests African realities are necessary, but they are and religious have difficulty remaining faithful insufficient “if we do not discover that behind to their vows; sects continue to attract large all the injustices of corruption and everything numbers of Catholics; and young people who else there lies an unjust heart, a closure to God travel to Europe or North America for study and, therefore, a falsification of the fundamencome home non-Catholic “because they felt Pope Benedict XVI prays with cardinals and bishops on the second day of tal relationship upon which all other relationless at home in the Catholic churches there.” the Synod of Bishops for Africa at the Vatican Oct. 6. The pope is flanked ships are based,” Pope Benedict said. Asked afterward about the challenge of celiby Ethiopian Orthodox Patriarch Abuna Paulos, left, and Archbishop While material well-being comes only at a bacy for African priests and religious, Cardinal Nikola Eterovic, secretary- general of the Synod of Bishops. great cost, God offers his love and forgiveness Turkson said, “It is not anything to hide or be to all for free, the pope said. ashamed of” because celibacy is a challenge “We become Christians only if our faith is transformed for modern men and women all over the world, but church policies focused only on profit rather than the common good, leaders must find new ways to respond to the challenge. and the acceptance of homosexuality and homosexual unions into charity,” he said. Pope Benedict asked the synod members to work to In his presentation to the synod, the cardinal said ethnic and of divorce and abortion. tensions and government corruption continue, and that the Cardinal Turkson also spoke to the synod about drug ensure that the love of God, which is offered to all men and African people face new challenges because of the import trafficking and drug use increasing in Africa; arms traf- women, is able to cross boundaries of ethnicity, tribe and of foreign cultural values and practices, including economic ficking escalating the violence of local conflicts; and social class in Africa. The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops has launched a Web page on the Second Special Assembly for Africa of the Synod of Bishops, which can be found at www.usccb.org/africasynod. The Synod will continue through Oct. 25, will address issues facing the Church in Africa, including conflict and the promotion of peace and reconciliation, dialogue with Muslims, economic justice and the family. The USCCB Web page includes links to news stories on the Synod as well as the Vatican’s working document on the assembly. The page also includes profiles of the two representatives of the U.S. Church attending the Synod, Archbishop Wilton Gregory of Atlanta and Father Paulinus Ozodor, C.S.Sp., a theology professor at the University of Notre Dame. Archbishop Gregory will also blog from the Synod to this Web page.
Ethiopian patriarch asks synod for united efforts on behalf of Africa By Catholic News Service VATICAN CITY – The leaders of all religions in Africa must work together to promote and protect the continent’s abundance of faith and natural resources, which often are threatened by war and exploitation, the patriarch of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church told the Synod of Bishops for Africa. “I would like to urge all religious leaders to work for peace and protect the natural resources God gave us and defend our children,” Patriarch Abuna Paulos told Pope Benedict XVI and other synod participants Oct. 6. Pope Benedict invited the patriarch to participate in the synod and to be one of the first speakers at the Oct. 4-25 gathering.
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The patriarch made a special appeal for a strong, united denunciation of the use of child soldiers in Africa’s conflicts. He said the continent’s civil wars “are usually fought by child soldiers” even though it is a clear violation of international law and human rights. “We must speak out in unity to oppose it,” the patriarch said. Patriarch Abuna told the pope and synod members that Christianity requires social action, including responding to the HIV-AIDS pandemic, alleviating poverty and hunger, and stopping violence and the destruction of the environment. “Social work is the meaning of apostleship. Apostleship is the root of a real and compassionate social work,” he said. The patriarch said that Africa needs to be nourished with religious teaching and by believers who practice what they preach. Responding to the patriarch, Pope Benedict seconded the Ethiopian leader’s affirmation about faith in action, saying, “The proclamation of the Gospel cannot be separated from the commitment to build a society which conforms to God’s will, respects the blessings of his creation and protects the dignity and innocence of all his children.” Faith in Christ, he said, gives Christians a sure hope that “reconciliation is possible, justice can prevail (and) peace can endure.”
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Jesuit finds new vocation but doesn’t abandon old one two initiatives for the Wounded Warriors. One is the writers’ workshop, where vets hone their WASHINGTON (CNS) – Jesuit Brother Rick writing and testify to their experiences in miliCurry has a new vocation. He’s now Jesuit Father tary life and in combat. Rick Curry. “Any program for veterans has to be talked up But he still plans on helping wounded war vetby other veterans. Veterans have an amazing sense erans restore meaning and purpose in their lives. of their ‘own,’ like being from a certain alma mater; Becoming a priest at age 66, as he did Sept. Notre Dame has a certain cachet,” he said. 13, might seem to be what in some circles is Father Curry added that vets have asked called a “late vocation.” But don’t apply that term one another about him: “Is he one of us?” “I to Father Curry. He said he views priestly ordinaexplain to them I have not lost my arm. I am tion as “an extension of my ministry.” born without an arm. It matters very little to In 2002, after Father Curry had spent 27 years them. They say, ‘You know what it means to be working with his National Theatre Workshop of different. You know what it’s like to navigate in the Handicapped, the workshop administrators the two-fisted world.’ They were making such were asked to bring returning wounded vets from an identification with me.” Afghanistan and Iraq to begin a writers’ program Father Curry said he plans to recruit vets so that they could tell their own stories and, as for the program after they’ve been discharged Father Curry told Catholic News Service, “open from the Walter Reed Army Medical Center in up the floodgates of post-traumatic stress.” Washington, and is looking for a site on or near “It was during that time that I began to be the Georgetown campus to house the program – asked by the Wounded Warriors (the eventual which can take in up to 20 vets at a time for the name of the program) to actually hear their con12-day program – as well as a veterans’ academy Jesuit Brother Rick Curry, who was born with one arm and founded the fession. I told them I was a Jesuit brother and for the soldiers to pursue academics. National Theatre Workshop of the Handicapped in 1977, is shown in this not ordained. I told them that so frequently that I The priest will also look for a site in Washington 2007 photo. Ordained to the priesthood in September at age 66, began to suspect there was some invitation there,” for the second initiative: a bakery training program Father Curry is set to begin work with wounded veterans. Father Curry said. “I was so happy as a Jesuit and retail bakery. Father Curry had such a training brother I never thought of it (priesthood).” program in Maine until he had to shut it down last His spiritual director echoed Father Curry’s suspicions, to navigate in this world, so I’m pretty comfortable with year to pursue his priesthood studies. Two of the most popular saying, “Maybe there’s an invitation here.” “I said, ‘To my own skin and I think I radiate a sense of comfort in the products sold at the Maine site were Brother Curry’s Breads what?’ He said, ‘To priesthood.’ I jokingly said, ‘I don’t sanctuary. ... And if I’m comfortable, I hope everyone else and Brother Curry’s Miraculous Dog Biscuits. like priests,’” Father Curry recalled. is comfortable.” What made them miraculous? He replied, “If you buy Yet, after a program of study at the Washington He gave credit to the late Jesuit Father Jerry Hall for help- them, I find that miraculous.” Theological Union in the nation’s capital, Father Curry was ing him. “He took me on privately and he figured out how to Father Curry also hopes to have an annual fundraising ordained. There was only one hitch, and that was easily offer Mass, how to anoint people, how to baptize babies, all event at the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in overcome: Father Curry, who was born without his right with one hand,” Father Curry said. “It was a life-affirming Washington to give voice to the soldiers’ stories, bring attenarm, obtained an indult from the Vatican to celebrate Mass experience. My only regret was that he died earlier and he tion to the program and raise money to sustain it. with only one hand. wasn’t able to be there in the flesh when I was ordained. He St. Ignatius of Loyola, founder of the Jesuits, “allowed us to Given the flowing chasubles worn by priests at Mass, was certainly there in spirit.” pray to do great work,” Father Curry said. A Jesuit for 48 years, “everybody can, or cannot, be cognizant of the fact that I Father Curry, now in residence with the Jesuit community “I’ve always thought of myself as a Jesuit,” he added. “More have only one hand,” Father Curry told CNS. “I’ve learned at Georgetown University in Washington, wants to resume importantly than anything else, I’m serving as a Jesuit.” (CNS PHOTO/BOB ROLLER)
By Mark Pattison
heaven can’t wait Serra for Priestly Vocations Please call Archdiocese of San Francisco Fr. Tom Daly (415) 614-5683
Vocations Director: Sr. Marcia Krause, OP Email: vocations@sjdominicans.org Initial Contact: Sr. Pauline Bouton, OP Cell: 510.789.7079
SERRA CLUBS Catholic Lay Organizations
FOSTERING VOCATIONS to the PRIESTHOOD AND RELIGIOUS LIFE WE WOULD LIKE TO HAVE YOU HELP US! PLEASE CALL FOR MORE INFORMATION. Thomas Egan
Martin Kilgariff
Tom O’Donnell
Marin San Mateo San Francisco 415-499-9079 415-665-4612 650-349-2489
October 9, 2009
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House resolution honors work of women religious in United States By Catholic News Service WASHINGTON – A resolution passed by the U.S. House of Representatives Sept. 22 “honors and commends Catholic sisters for their humble service and courageous sacrifice throughout the history” of the nation. The resolution approved with a voice vote also specifically supports the goals of a traveling exhibit on women religious in the United States that is being sponsored by the Leadership Conference of Women Religious. The resolution was introduced by Rep. Marcy Kaptur, D-Ohio, and co-sponsored by members of both parties. In speaking on the floor of the House in support of her resolution, Kaptur, a Catholic, cited the history of Catholic sisters in the country dating back to 1727, and their roles in nursing during the Civil War, in health care today, and in education and other types of ministries. She noted that since 1980 at least nine U.S. sisters have been killed for their work; they include three Ohio nuns murdered in El Salvador in 1980. The resolution also cited the legacy of the nuns who were murdered “while working for social justice and human rights overseas.” Rep. Mark Souder, R-Ind., also offered remarks for the Congressional Record about the influence of the sisters in his state, particularly St. Mother Theodore Guerin, who established a system of parish schools in Indiana. The resolution said “the social, cultural and political contributions of Catholic sisters have played a vital role in shaping life in the United States” and that “such women have joined in unique forms of intentional communitarian life dedicated to prayer and service since the very beginnings of our nation’s history, fearlessly and often sacrificially committing their personal lives to teaching, healing and social action.” In addition, the resolution noted that today about one in six hospital patients in the United States is treated in a Catholic facility and that Catholic sisters “have been among the first to stand with the underprivileged, to work and educate among the poor and underserved, and to facilitate leadership through opportunity and example.” They also “continue to provide shelter, food and basic human needs to the economically or socially disadvantaged and advocate relentlessly for the fair and equal treatment of all persons,” it said. It also noted that Catholic sisters “work for the eradication of poverty and racism and for the promotion of nonvio-
lence, equality and democracy in principle and in action.” “The humanitarian work of Catholic sisters with communities in crisis ... throughout the world positions them as activists and diplomats of peace and justice for some of the most at-risk populations,” the resolution said. The traveling exhibit “Women & Spirit: Catholic Sisters in America” opened in the Women’s Museum of Dallas Sept. 25, after a three-month showing at the Cincinnati Museum Center. The exhibit will move on to the Smithsonian’s S. Dillon Ripley Center in Washington in January, the Ellis Island Immigration Museum in New York next September
and the Mississippi River Museum in Dubuque, Iowa, in early 2011. “Women & Spirit: Catholic Sisters in America reveals the mystery behind women who helped shape the nation’s social and cultural landscape. First arriving in America nearly 300 years ago, throughout periods of struggle and controversy, Catholic Sisters established schools, hospitals, and colleges, and provided other social services that have served millions. Through their enduring legacy and persistent vision, the nation’s promise of equality and opportunity continues to be extended to all Americans, regardless of faith, color, nationality, or economic status. Visitors to the exhibit learn of women who corresponded with President Thomas Jefferson, talked down bandits and roughnecks, lugged pianos into the wilderness, and provided the nation’s first health insurance to Midwestern loggers. Visitors discover the quiet courage of Catholic Sisters during many dramatic moments in U.S. history, including the Civil War, the Gold Rush, the San Francisco Earthquake, the Influenza Epidemic, the Civil Rights Movement, and Hurricane Katrina.
Do you feel God may be calling you to diocesan priesthood? “¿Te sientes atraído a servir como sacerdote diocesano?”
SOCIETY OF MARY
Called by Mary To live, to pray, and to serve the Church and the world In the community which bears her name
THE MARISTS
U.S. PROVINCE
maristsociety.org For more information, contact: THE VOCATION DIRECTOR MARIST FATHERS AND BROTHERS 2335 WARRING ST., BERKELEY, CA 94704 TOLL FREE: 866-298-3715, OR 510-486-1232 EMAIL: maristvocations@sbcglobal.net
God, our Father, In Your providential love, You call each of us to a more holy and abundant life. We pray for our young people in the Archdiocese of San Francisco. Open their hearts and minds to know the vocation You have planned for them from all eternity. If they are being invited to follow You as a priest, Brother, or Sister, give them a generous heart to respond to Your challenging call; the strength and courage to follow wherever You lead them. May families desire to please You by encouraging and supporting vocations within their homes. We ask this through Jesus Christ, our Good Shepherd. Amen
Please Pray Daily If you have any questions, please contact
Fr. Thomas Daly Office of Vocations
415-614-5683
Office of Vocations • One Peter Yorke Way • San Francisco, CA 94109 E-mail: dalyt@sfarchdiocese.org
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New study shows current state of vocations to U.S. religious communities By Chaz Muth WASHINGTON (CNS) – U.S. Catholic religious communities are attracting more ethnically and culturally diverse members now than in previous generations, according to a recently released in-depth survey. The “Study of Recent Vocations to Religious Life” also showed that most U.S. religious communities report diminishing numbers with aging populations, but at the same time indicated those who are choosing religious life today are passionate about it and some orders are cultivating vocations from the millennial generation. The study – conducted by CARA, a Georgetown University-based research center, on behalf of the National Religious Vocation Conference, surveyed 4,000 men and women who are in formation or newly vowed members. The study was conducted to find the best methods for religious institutes to attract and retain new members, said Holy Cross Brother Paul Bednarczyk, executive director of the National Religious Vocation Conference, a professional association of religious vocation directors. Though the numbers in religious orders may be decreasing, the study found that new members are passionate about religious life and that both men’s and women’s communities following more traditional practices have better success attracting younger members today. Another encouraging sign is that 43 percent of those surveyed are under the age of 30, meaning U.S. religious communities are reaching the millennial generation, Brother Paul said. “It confirms that younger people are rethinking entering religious life,” he said. The study was based on surveys of religious institutes, focus groups with those new to religious life, and an examination of selected religious institutes that have been
State of Vocations
A recent survey gives a profile of U.S. men and women religious and what their attraction was to religious life. Race/ethnicity: initial formation CAUCASIAN, WHITE, ANGLO
21% 58%
14%
HISPANIC, LATINO ASIAN, PACIFIC ISLANDER
6%
AFRICAN AMERICAN, BLACK, AFRICAN OTHER
Attraction to religious life: initial formation Percent who said the following “very much” attracted them to religious life 78%
A SENSE OF CALL A DESIRE FOR PRAYER AND SPIRITUAL GROWTH
73% 67%
A DESIRE TO BE OF SERVICE A DESIRE TO BE PART OF A COMMUNITY A DESIRE TO BE MORE COMMITTED TO THE CHURCH
60% 44%
Source: Center for Applied Research in the Apostolate
©2009 CNS
relatively successful in attracting and retaining new members, according to its executive summary. The study was designed to identify and understand the
characteristics, attitudes and experiences of the men and women who are entering religious life today as well as the characteristics and practices of the religious institutes that are successfully attracting new candidates and retaining new members, the summary said. Though about 94 percent of members of U.S. religious communities who have made their final profession are white, a growing number of those in formation come from non-Caucasian backgrounds, according to the study. Approximately 21 percent of those in initial formation are Hispanic/Latino, 14 percent are Asian/Pacific Islander, and 6 percent are African/African-American. About 58 percent are Caucasian/white. According to the survey of new members, the average age for entering religious life is 30 for men and 32 for women. New members told surveyors they were most attracted to religious life through various media, especially Web sites, and were drawn to programs that offered discernment retreats, “come and see” experiences, discernment groups and ministry/mission experiences. The total of new members in U.S. religious communities is probably higher than the 4,000 surveyed, since some religious institutes did not respond said Mercy Sister Mary Bendyna, executive director of the Center for Applied Research in the Apostolate and principal author of the study. The study’s findings did not include diocesan priests. Sister Mary sees as a positive sign the mere fact that men and women are choosing religious life at a time when it is not as popular or as understood as it once was. “They face many challenges and are making a choice that family and friends don’t understand,” Sister Mary said, “but they are embracing their call with faith and enthusiasm.”
Young woman runs in order to raise funds to enter religious life By Joyce Duriga CHICAGO (CNS) – When Alicia Torres laced up her running shoes and tackled the 13.1 miles of the Chicago Half Marathon Sept. 13, her goal was to become a nun. Torres is not a runner and had never run a distance race. But she ran the race as part of an appeal to friends and strangers to help pay off more than $90,000 in student loans so she can enter religious life. When Torres felt God calling her to this vocation, she realized there was one major obstacle in her path – thousands of dollars in student loans that must be paid off prior to entering the religious community she’s chosen. Most of her loans are held by private lenders so they can’t be consolidated or the interest rates negotiated. It is a contemporary issue. Men and women graduate from college with student loan bills and feel God calling them to join communities that take vows of poverty. But they must enter debt-free since
the communities do not typically have resources to pay off the loans. The 24-year-old graduated in 2007 from Loyola University Chicago with a degree in theology and bioethics and works in the Respect Life Office for the Archdiocese of Chicago. Facing this large debt and feeling God’s call to her becoming clearer every day, Torres chose to do something public to seek help. She took the “nun run” vocation idea literally and decided to run a half marathon to call attention to her situation and to encourage donations. Torres created www.TheNunRun.com to chronicle her journey. Several of her friends ran the half marathon with her in solidarity. She is also working with the Laboure Society (www.labourefoundation.org), a nonprofit that provides financial assistance to individuals who must eliminate personal debt in order to pursue their vocation to the priesthood or religious life. Torres tells anyone who asks that she’s
not looking to get out of paying her loans. She will continue to work until they are paid and she can enter the community free and clear. She’s just looking for help to realize her vocation sooner rather than later. She is peppered with questions and comments whenever she shares her story. Why can’t her parents pay the loans for her?
(They don’t have the means and still have kids at home.) Why doesn’t she just get a better-paying job? (She’s doing good work where she is.) Why can’t the community pay it for her? (They have a vow of poverty.) They are all questions she takes in stride and opportunities she uses for evangelization.
In living your life, have only one desire, to be and become the person God wills...
What is God’s desire for you?
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Fellow Capuchin provides edifying portrait of simple, saintly man By Rachelle Linner WASHINGTON (CNS) – Franciscan Father Michael Crosby is uniquely qualified to write about the life and spirituality of Father Solanus Casey (1870-1957). A fellow Capuchin, he wrote Father Casey’s official biography in 1982 and was the “external collaborator to the relator” for the investigation by the Congregation for Saints’ Causes that concluded, in 1995, that “the servant of God, Francis Solanus Casey, was an authentic master through his word and example.” In declaring him venerable (the first major step leading to canonization) the Vatican extolled Father Casey’s “life of heroic virtue.” “Thank God Ahead of Time: The Life and Spirituality of Solanus Casey” by Michael H. Crosby, OFM Cap. (St. Anthony Messenger Press, Cincinnati, 2009, 282 pp., $16.95) draws on this intimate and respectful knowledge. Father Crosby rightly eschews sentimentality and instead persuades the reader of Father Casey’s virtue through rich anecdotes, illustrative excerpts from letters and spiritual reflections, and wonderful photographs of a man who knew the happiness, peace and confidence of conformity to God’s will. Solanus Casey was the sixth of 16 children of Irish immigrant parents. He was born on a farm near Oak Grove, Wis., and as a young man worked as a logger, a motorman and a prison guard before entering the Capuchins at age 26. His seminary education
was hindered by his lack of fluency in German and Latin and a tendency to “skim the surface. If he did not grasp something immediately he tended to give up. To himself and others this indicated a lack of sufficient intelligence; to observers today he might be considered more intuitive or intellectually lazy.” Thus, when he was ordained in 1904 it was as a “simplex priest,” one who is unable to hear confessions or preach dogmatic sermons. Fatherr Casey’s resignation to the will of his religiouss superiors was evident in the fidelity and gratitudee with which he carried out the most humble tasks inn the monastery. Two years after his ordination, while ile serving in Yonkers, N.Y., Father Casey was assigned ed to be the friary’s porter, or doorkeeper, a ministry he would carry out for the rest of his life. Father Crosby shows us how, in Solanus Casey, grace built on nature. The man’s natural gentleness, approachability and genuine concern for people were the scaffolding for his “unique giftedness: his keen insight into people’s needs and how they fit into God’s plans. These days at Yonkers found the seeds being sown which would flourish in his future ministry of healing and prophecy.” In 1923 his superiors told him to keep a record of “special
cases,” a rich compilation of the spiritual blessings that th flowed through the decades of 18-hour days. Almost more remarkable than example after A example examp of miraculous healing and conversion is the evidence of Father Casey’s humility, reverev ence, simplicity and lack of self-importance. He was, one Capuchin explained, “constantly Godcentered, cente on fire with love for God, and constantly God-conscious, seeming always to have his eyes God on God. G He seemed to see everything as flowing from God and leading back to God.” Father Casey, as Father Crosby reminds us, was wa a man of his time and culture, but he also exhibited a remarkable freedom that allowed ex him hi to move beyond racial, economic and religious divisions. He believed that “religion re is the science scienc of our happy relationship with God and our neighbor” and that widespread anxiety and alienation were the result of “humanity’s sad weakness,” the “lack of faith and, consequently, want of confidence in God.” The book’s concluding chapter offers an excellent overview of the theological and spiritual influences and religious practices that sustained Father Casey in his life of expansive and expensive charity, a life of ongoing conversion, renunciation and total dependence on God.
Priests must help laity to solve world’s problems, cardinal says By Catholic News Service NOTRE DAME, Ind. – Priests must guard against becoming limited to sacramental ministry and must help lay Catholics take up their duty to try to solve “the massive problems we are facing,” Cardinal Roger M. Mahony of Los Angeles said in a talk at the University of Notre Dame. “As a leader of a faith community of co-responsibility, the ordained priest best serves his people by promoting their royal priesthood at a moment of world crisis,” he said. The cardinal’s address stressed the importance of the baptismal priesthood – the role of every Catholic in the church’s ministry – during the Year for Priests, which Pope Benedict XVI opened June 19. “The priest’s ministry is not focused solely on the celebration of the Eucharist and other sacraments,” Cardinal Mahony said. “He, too, is called to work toward integral human development at the heart of a renewed social order. “But his part in this mission lies primarily in teaching and in guiding those who are intimately and integrally involved in the various spheres and disciplines that must interact with one another in finding solutions in response to the needs and exigencies of our age,” he added. He said the documents produced at the Second Vatican Council have brought about “a better understanding that the priestly ministry is not only for the purpose of celebrating Mass, hearing confessions, anointing the sick and dying, and officiating at marriages,” the cardinal said. “The priest is ordained to be a leader within a community of co-responsibility, all of whose members are given gifts in baptism, strengthened in confirmation and nourished week by week
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or day by day in the celebration of the Eucharist,” he added. Cardinal Mahony warned that the current U.S. church trend toward the merger, twinning or clustering of parishes that are then sometimes headed by a lay or religious parish life director could lead to a view of the priest “as a sacramental provider who enters and exits the parish or parishes to provide for their sacramental life and then moves on.” But such a view shortchanges the priest’s role as “what we might call a ‘traditioning agent,’” who passes on the tradition and teachings of the church, “communicating them effectively so that others might live and pass them on to the next generation,” he said. “Such an understanding of the priest ... calls for a deeper commitment in both initial and ongoing formation of priests to a deeper appreciation of the need to be soaked and saturated in Scripture, tradition and the church’s teachings as they bear upon the pressing needs and exigencies of the people of our age,” the cardinal said. With Pope Benedict’s recent encyclical, “Caritas in Veritate” (“Charity in Truth”), “the church has given moral authority to efforts to work out a solution to the massive problems we are facing, particularly as these affect the poor of the earth, who are not to be considered a burden, but a resource,” Cardinal Mahony said. But the priest’s role in helping the laity to solve those problems does not mean telling people what to do, he said. “Rather, he must ‘learn the tricks,’ or develop a savoir-faire for working in a community of co-responsibility for the life and mission of the church,” the cardinal said. “The priest’s teaching efforts are to be directed not only to the life of the church, but must offer encouragement, guidance
So GOD, What do YOU want ME to do for you? DAUGHTERS OF CHARITY
and support for the baptismal priesthood as the lay faithful seek to establish a community of nations more in keeping with the vision we find in ‘Caritas in Veritate’ and in the church’s teaching on social and other matters,” he added.
The Sisters of Mercy West Midwest Community invites young adult women ages 18-30 to a time of deep listening Wondering about God and Your Life’s Call? Discerning a call to religious life December 4-6, 2009 Mercy Center, 2300 Adeline Drive, Burlingame, CA Contact Sister Cindy Kaye, RSM, kayenun@yahoo.com or 650 340-7434
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Catholic San Francisco
NEWS
October 9, 2009 Following a tradition at many parishes, Epiphany Elementary School celebrated the feast of St. Francis of Assisi Oct. 2 with a prayer service and blessing of animals. Parish Deacon Ding Viray presided over the benedictions, one of many such events at schools in the Archdiocese, said Janet Suzio, assistant superintendent of schools for faith formation and religious instruction. Epiphany School students pictured with their pets are Giselle Paniagua, Gabriel Garcia, and Keith Ismael.
in brief
Mobile unit provides prenatal care GOODYEAR, Ariz. – Early one recent Wednesday morning, the large trailer hooked up to a big, red pickup truck was already humming in the parking lot of St. John Vianney Parish in Goodyear. Inside the trailer, two registered nurses and one nurse practitioner were getting ready for the day, reviewing charts, looking at scheduled appointments and having a quick breakfast. Soon, anywhere between 10 and 30 pregnant women would enter the trailer turned medical center and receive prenatal care – for free. The Maternity Outreach Mobile Unit – or MOMobile for short – has been providing free medical care to pregnant women for the past 15 years. It receives private donations and grants to cover operating costs, and serves mostly poor immigrant women. “This is specifically for people who don’t have health insurance or otherwise wouldn’t have prenatal care,” said Peggy Yancy, a nurse practitioner who works in the MOMobile. It’s an important outreach for St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center, which years ago found itself delivering babies of mothers who had no prenatal care and were suffering the consequences of it.
San Antonio Archbishop Jose Gomez fields questions from priests during the 20th annual National Association of Hispanic Priests convention in Rosemont,Ill., Sept. 30. The association offers support to Hispanic priests and promotes vocations in the Latino community. According to the group, there are around 2,500 Hispanic Catholic priests in the U.S.
100 million prayers for life, peace WASHINGTON, N.J. – The World Apostolate of Fatima/ Blue Army USA hopes to inspire 100 million prayers for life and peace on Worldwide Fatima Sanctity of Life Day Oct. 18. Catholics are being asked to pray the rosary and non-Catholics to pray as they are accustomed for 20 minutes to mark the day. Participants will pray through the intercession of Our Lady of Fatima for an end to war, abortion, terrorism, genocide, child slavery, assisted suicide and all other instances where death is chosen as a solution to world problems. “The message of Fatima was meant not just for Catholics, but for all people and for all time,” said Michael La Corte, executive director of the World Apostolate of Fatima. “At Fatima we were taught that we must sin less and repair the damage sin causes through acts of reparation and devotion, or the result will be souls lost to hell and wars so bad that nations will be annihilated.” Prayer events will be held around the world, with events at the main prayer center at the Blue Army Shrine of the Immaculate Heart of Mary in Washington, N.J., being broadcast live by the Eternal Word Television Network. People pray on the beach during second annual Blessing of the Waves in Huntington Beach, Calif., Oct. 4. The event calls on participants to show spiritual appreciation for the ocean and all that it gives the planet and its population. More than 1,500 surfers and ocean-minded people attended the multicultural event.
rable damage to the common good,” the bishops’ Permanent Commission said in an Oct. 1 statement. “The lay faithful are rightly responding to the challenge posed, with great moral and social transcendence, by using their right to a peaceful demonstration in order to express their opposition,” the bishops said. The statement was issued amid preparations for a massive protest Oct. 17 in Madrid against the planned liberalizing of abortion laws; the changes were initiated by Socialist Prime Minister Jose Luis Rodriguez Zapatero. The bishops’ statement said they considered the rally, which organizers hope will attract more than 1 million people, “justified and appropriate.”
WASHINGTON – The U.S. Supreme Court declined Oct. 5 to intervene in orders by Connecticut courts requiring the Diocese of Bridgeport to release thousands of pages of material from 23 lawsuits settled against six priests who were sued in sexual abuse cases. With no comment, the court declined to take the appeal from the diocese, filed after the state Supreme Court upheld a Waterbury Superior Court’s order in 2006 that the diocese release documents to four newspapers that sought access to them. The diocese had sought to keep sealed more than 12,000 pages of depositions, exhibits and legal arguments in the lawsuits, most of which were filed in the mid-1990s. The cases were settled by the diocese in 2001 for undisclosed amounts of money, with the agreement that the documents would remain sealed. The following year, The New York Times, later joined by the Hartford Courant, the Boston Globe and The Washington Post, filed suit to see the documents. The newspapers described them as a key part of the church’s record of how charges of clergy sexual abuse were handled. A statement from the Bridgeport Diocese did not address when it would release the documents.
Tolerance needed to ease tensions JERUSALEM – Tolerance and openness must prevail in order for the recent tensions in Jerusalem to dissipate, said the Middle East Council of Churches’ Jerusalem office director. “As complicated as the situation is and as tense as it is, it simply needs to address and respect religious places and religious sentiments,” said Ramzi Zananiri, the director. “The issue is an issue of tolerance and to what extent we are tolerant. The situation is tense because it is touching ... on sensitive (religious) nerves.” Tensions in Jerusalem were high in early October and culminated Oct. 5 as some 150 Palestinians clashed with police near the compound that houses the Temple Mount, sacred to Jews, and the al-Aqsa Mosque, sacred to Muslims. Some 10,000 Jews arrived at the compound for the traditional priestly blessing on the second day of the Jewish feast of Sukkot; they were able to pray peacefully. According to news reports the clashes began after access to the compound, known as Haram al-Sharif to Muslims, was denied to Muslim worshippers. The violence also spread to other parts of East Jerusalem.
Religious leaders urge president to work for peace in Sudan WASHINGTON – Representatives of 10 different religious denominations met with the head of the White House Office of Faith-Based and Neighborhood Partnerships to nail down a U.S. commitment to fostering peace in Sudan. The representatives said Joshua DuBois, head of the White House office, told them that Sudan is a critical issue for President Barack Obama and that faith groups play an important role in drawing attention to Sudan. DuBois, according to the faith leaders, said addressing violence against women, which has been reported in Sudan, was a priority for Obama. “For us Sudan is a major priority and something that we’re looking for the United States to provide real leadership in,” said Stephen Colecchi, director of the U.S. bishops’ Office of International Justice and Peace, during an Oct. 2 conference call with reporters. Colecchi was one of the 10 who met earlier that day with DuBois, formerly a Pentecostal pastor. Colecchi and the others gave Dubois a letter signed by 1,410 Christian, Jewish and Muslim leaders urging a U.S. commitment to peace in Sudan, which has been ravaged by two civil wars and violence directed by the Muslim-led government against its own citizens – Christian, animist and Muslim groups in the African nation’s southern, western and eastern regions.
Marking fall of Berlin Wall, Bishops warn of crisis in values PARIS – Europe’s Catholic bishops have commemorated the end of their continent’s East-West division while also warning that it now faces a crisis of values. “Twenty years ago, we witnessed a great moment: the fall of the Berlin Wall. It was a turning point that did not simply come out of the blue; it came as a result of determined and bold men who did not lack their own freedom,” said the Swiss-based Council of European Bishops’ Conferences, which represents about 1,200 bishops. “We now see that the incredible European project, with a strong ethical basis, has greatly weakened,” the council said. “The very poor turnout in the latest European parliamentary elections was a telltale sign. The hopes placed on building Europe have not, so far, been fulfilled.” In a message at the close of the council’s Oct. 1-4 assembly in Paris, the bishops said Catholics should remember “the many battles fought for solidarity and respect for human dignity” in Central and Eastern Europe, as well as the “fundamental role” of Pope John Paul II in supporting “a Europe based on foundations of faith, the common good and peace.” They added that the November 1989 dismantling of the Berlin Wall had been “a great stepping stone in the European adventure,” but said later developments in the European Union had been accompanied by developments that went “against the authentic good.”
Spain’s bishops urge protest MADRID, Spain – Spain’s Catholic bishops are urging church members to protest abortion legislation that would allow girls as young as 16 to terminate pregnancies without parental consent. “This law is a step backward, as far as defending the right to life of those who are to be born is concerned. It means a greater abandonment of pregnant mothers and irrepa-
Pope welcomes new US ambassador
(CNS PHOTO/TIM RUE)
(CNS PHOTO/KAREN CALLAWAY, CATHOLIC NEW WORLD)
Court declines to stop order
VATICAN CITY – Welcoming the new U.S. ambassador to the Vatican, Pope Benedict XVI outlined wide areas of potential cooperation with the administration of President Barack Obama, but drew a sharp line on the issues of abortion and the rights of conscience. The pope called for “a clear discernment with regard to issues touching the protection of human dignity and respect for the inalienable right to life from the moment of conception to natural death, as well as the protection of the right to conscientious objection on the part of health care workers, and indeed all citizens.” He made the remarks at a ceremony Oct. 2 to accept the credentials of Miguel Diaz, named in May by Obama as the ninth U.S. ambassador to the Holy See. After the encounter at the papal villa in Castel Gandolfo south of Rome, Diaz held talks at the Vatican with the Vatican secretary of state, Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone. The pope’s comments on the right to life touched on a current debate in the United States over provisions of health care reform and how they would affect abortion policies.
October 9, 2009
Local Little Sisters of the Poor rejoice in founder’s sainthood
Sister Germaine Regina, Sister Agnes Claire, Sister Joseph Miriam, Sister Anthony Selewicz, Mother Margaret, Sister John Elise, Sister Michel and Sister Mary Anne at St. Anne’s Home. In the background stands a statue of Little Sisters of the Poor founder Blessed Jeanne Jugan.
By Michael Vick When Blessed Jeanne Jugan becomes St. Jeanne Jugan Oct. 11, count the sisters and residents of St. Anne’s Home in San Francisco among the celebrants. The Little Sisters of the Poor who run the elder care facility told Catholic San Francisco their founder Blessed Jeanne’s elevation to sainthood inspires them to continue working to help the aging poor. “It’s a great joy for the sisters, an invitation to renew our fervor and to live out her spirit more intensely so as to serve our residents better,” said Sister Agnes Clare of Blessed Jeanne’s canonization. Among the residents is Bob Steyer, whose mother was a former resident before her death in 1988. He volunteered for the next 14 years, becoming a resident himself in 2002. “I admire so much what Blessed Jeanne
did for the elderly poor,” Steyer said. “From such a small beginning, the order of Little Sisters of the Poor now has over 200 homes all over the world. Her canonization is one of the greatest highlights of my life.” Sister Anthony Selewicz, administrator of St. Anne’s, said she hopes Blessed Jeanne’s sainthood draws attention to the plight of the elderly. “There is so much focus on respect for life, and the big movement, rightfully so, is to protect the lives of the unborn,” Sister Anthony said. “At the same time, the elderly need advocates. As they age, they often have their services cut, their medications cut. More and more elderly need care.” St. Anne’s Home is located at 300 Lake St. For more information, call (415) 7516510, e-mail sanfran@littlesistersofthepoor. org or visit www.littlesistersofthepoor.org/ locations/SFhome.html.
New saints . . . n Continued from cover
Today she is known as the patron of the elderly, and is seen by many as introducing a unique model of health care delivery that has particular relevance in modern times of costly end-of-life care. The Little Sisters serve more than 13,000 elderly residents in 202 homes in 32 countries. In San Francisco, the Little Sisters provide elderly care at St. Anne’s Home on Lake St. Some of the people who continue to be touched by the lives of these 19th-century figures will be in Rome for the canonization Mass celebrated by Pope Benedict. Although the treatment of Hansen’s disease is much improved and no longer calls for the segregation of patients, it still afflicts several million people around the world. Traveling with a group of 550 pilgrims from Hawaii will be a dozen residents from Kalaupapa – about half of the settlement’s remaining former Hansen’s disease patients – along with their caregivers and companions. The residents’ 12,000-mile journey was paid through a fundraising campaign.
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The Little Sisters of the Poor are coming to Rome in full force, about 4,000 sisters, patrons, staff members and a group of very special guests: at least one resident from each of their homes for the elderly. The order is arranging video transmission of the canonization Mass for many of the residents who can’t make the trip. Blessed Jeanne and Blessed Damien seem to embody a favorite theme of Pope Benedict: that Christianity is not merely a “moral code” or a set of rules, but a religion that embodies love of God and neighbor. Although their causes have been under study by church authorities for decades, they are very much saints of this pontificate. Canonization on TV Oct. 11 EWTN will broadcast the canonization Mass of Blessed Jeanne Jugan and Blessed Damien of Molokai live Oct. 11 beginning at 1 a.m. An encore presentation of the rite will air on EWTN Oct. 11 at 9 a.m. EWTN Catholic Television is broadcast on Comcast Channel 229, AT&T Channel 562, Astound Channel 80, San Bruno Cable Channel 143, DISH Satellite Channel 261, Direct TV Channel 370. For additional programming details, visit www. ewtn.com.
Little Sisters of the Poor MISSION Welcoming the needy elderly into homes, forming a family with them, enabling them to enjoy life and caring for them with love and respect until the moment ment God calls them home. SISTERS 2,700 HOMES 202 LOCATIONS 32 countries CARING FOR 13,232 people LAY MEMBERS 2,065 ESTABLISHED 1842 FOUNDRESS Jeanne Jugan VOWS Chastity, poverty, obedience and hospitality
Source: www.littlesistersofthepoor.org ©2009 CNS
Report assesses positive impact of centers that help women avoid abortion WASHINGTON (CNS) – Primarily through the work of volunteers, pregnancy resource centers around the country are “empowering women and strengthening communities” by enhancing child and maternal health, according to a former assistant secretary of health in the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Dr. Joxel Garcia, who served in the administration of President George W. Bush, was commenting Sept. 30 in Washington on the release of a new report summarizing the contributions of pregnancy resource centers over the past 40 years. The report, “A Passion to Serve, A Vision for Life,” found that some 2,300 pregnancy resource centers in the U.S. serve an estimated 1.9 million people each year with pregnancy assistance, abstinence counseling and education and community outreach. Some also offer medical services such as pregnancy testing, HIV and AIDS testing and ultrasounds. The centers studied in the report do not offer, recommend or refer for abortions and operate under three major networks – Care Net, Heartbeat International and the National Institute of Family & Life Advocates. “Twenty-nine of every 30 people engaged in pregnancy center work are volunteers, involved with lay and peer counseling, medical services, center upkeep and fundraising,” the report said. “The centers raise at least $200 million in income each year, with more than 90 percent of these funds coming from private charitable giving.” At a Washington news conference for release of the report, Margaret Hartshorn, president of Heartbeat International, said the center volunteers are doing the work necessary so that “abortion is unwanted now and unthinkable for future generations.” “Heartbeat affiliates provide all the facts on abortion – from post-traumatic stress disorder to possible medical complications – that abortion providers often leave out,” she added. “Pregnancy centers set the standard for true reproductive health care for women.”
(CNS PHOTO/COURTESY LACY DODD)
By Nancy Frazier O’Brien
Lacy Dodd, an alumna of the University of Notre Dame and a member of the board of directors of Room at the Inn, is pictured with her daughter in an undated photo. Room at the Inn is a Charlotte, N.C.-based pregnancy resource center that hopes to build the nation’s first campus-based maternity and after-care residence for pregnant college students.
Chuck Donovan, a senior research fellow at the Heritage Foundation who co-wrote the study as a staff member of the Family Research Council, said the goal of the report was to shine a light on “the faith-based and community services” provided by pregnancy resource centers, “whose depth and character have yet to be fully told.” Donovan said he believes that the centers have “reduced by abortions by tens of thousands.” The report acknowledges the roots of the centers in the Catholic Church, noting that in 1931 there were
44 Catholic infant and maternity homes in the United States. “Like the early pregnancy center movement, the initial legislative response to the abortion tide unleashed by Roe (v. Wade) was led by Roman Catholic organizations and individuals,” it said. Thomas A. Glessner, president of the National Institute of Family & Life Advocates, said almost 700 U.S. pregnancy resource centers operate as medical clinics, and some 1,200 health care professionals have been trained in providing limited obstetrical ultrasounds in that setting. “Pregnancy resource centers across the nation represent the highest of American ideals and the best of American character and spirit,” he said. Several of the 12 speakers at the news conference told very personal stories about how pregnancy resource centers had helped them. Shalaine Bright of Charlottesville, Va., admitted that when she found out she was pregnant at age 21, with no money, no health insurance and no support from her boyfriend, “I wanted to just get rid of my baby and pretend none of this ever happened.” But she said the staff at the Pregnancy Centers of Central Virginia were “indescribably helpful,” offering her a video on fetal development, parenting classes and information about how to sign up for Medicaid and the Women, Infants and Children federal nutrition program. “I found the hope I needed in a difficult time, and it made all the difference to me and my son,” Bright said. Mallory Hitt, a sophomore at Regent University in Virginia Beach, Va., expressed gratitude to pregnancy resource centers for an entirely different reason. Her birth mother became pregnant with her as the result of a rape, but decided to give birth and place her child for adoption after visiting a Living Alternatives center. “I have never once felt unloved, unwanted or out of place in my adoptive family,” Hitt said. “I can see how God was looking out for me even before I was born.”
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Catholic San Francisco
October 9, 2009
Catholic san Francisco Northern California’s Weekly Catholic Newspaper
Guest Commentary Health care reform: A Catholic priority By George Wesolek The Catholic Church has a great investment in health care reform in the United States. For Catholics, and many other people of faith, health care is a ministry that we do as a way of acting out our faith. Even though health care is big business, most people of faith and certainly the Catholic Church, do not primarily see health care as a commodity to be bought and sold for a profit, but a service of compassion offered to all. Catholic teaching insists that basic health care is a right and is essential to protect human life and dignity. Health care reform is important to us because one out of every six hospital patients in the country is in a Catholic hospital. Catholic institutions include 624 hospitals, 499 long-term nursing care facilities, 164 home health agencies, 41 hospice organizations, 773 other health care facilities such as those that offer assisted living, adult day care and senior housing. The American Hospital Association reported in its 2007 annual survey that Catholic hospitals provide nearly 17 million emergency room visits and nearly 93 million outpatient visits in one year. Catholic hospitals counted 5,542,314 admissions the same year, notes the Catholic Health Association. Almost all of these institutions were founded by Religious Orders (mostly Sisters) who many years ago saw people in need and responded. They did it not for material gain, but for the fulfillment of their faith mission. Locally, St. Francis Memorial Hospital, St. Mary’s Medical Center and Seton Medical Center in Daly City do a total of $10.8 million in charity care yearly. “Charity care” means that portion of patient care services provided by a hospital for which a third-party payer is not responsible, and for which a patient has the inability to pay. Charity care does not include bad debt, contractual adjustments, or Medicaid/ Medicare “shortfalls.” These Catholic hospitals have been in the forefront of advocating for health care reform. They are solidly invested in providing quality care to all as a central part of their mission and a necessary part of their very reason for existence. The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops and the Archdiocese of San Francisco are calling for universal health coverage which protects the life and dignity of all, especially those who are poor and vulnerable. We believe that genuine healthcare reform which protects human life from conception to natural death is a moral imperative and urgent national priority. There are many paths to achieve health care reform with valuable ideas from all parts of the political spectrum. Based on Catholic Social Teaching, we believe that the general framework for genuine reform must include the following: 1. Include health care coverage for all people from conception until natural death, and continue the federal ban on funding for abortions; 2. Include access for all with a special concern for the poor; 3. Pursue the common good and preserve pluralism, including freedom of conscience; 4. Restrain costs and apply costs equitably among payers. It is a scandal that 45 million Americans have no health care coverage or inadequate coverage and access in the richest nation in the history of the world. The people of the United States of America must do better. George Wesolek is director of the Office of Public Policy/ Social Concerns for the Archdiocese of San Francisco.
Catholic senators’ unsettling votes By Jack Smith Catholic senators were the decisive factor in denying an amendment to secure conscience protection for health care workers and block federal funding for abortion in a Sept. 30 vote by the U.S. Senate’s Finance Committee. Bottom line: Both conscience protection and a ban of federal funding would have passed but for the votes of Catholic senators. The Senate Finance Committee led by Senator Max Baucus refused to accept an amendment proposed by Senator Orrin Hatch specifically excluding federal funding of abortion in that committee’s version of health care reform. The vote was 10-13 against the Hatch Amendment. All Democrats on the committee, except Kent Conrad, opposed the amendment. All Republicans, except Olympia Snowe, supported it. There is nothing surprising about the vote. Far more disturbing was a later vote by the same margin denying conscience protection to doctors, health care facilities and hospitals which refuse to perform abortions. Thirteen Senators, including Catholics John Kerry, Maria Cantwell and Robert Menendez, voted against a second Hatch Amendment which would have protected Catholics and other conscientious objectors to abortion from discrimination by the Federal Government. Jack Smith is editor of The Catholic Key, newspaper of the Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph.
‘Edifying accounts’ Sincere thanks for several recent inspiring stories about American soldiers serving in Iraq and Afghanistan: “Soldier’s Faith,” “Medal of Honor,” and George Weigel’s column “Homecoming,” (CSF Sept. 11). Also appreciated is the story, “Iraq to Nicaragua,” (CSF Sept 25) about a local army veteran who was inspired by his two tours in Iraq and went to serve in a hospital in Nicaragua as a part of a USF nursing training program. Rarely do we hear of edifying accounts such as these in our secular newspapers or other media. Even more sadly, at Mass, we don’t hear included in the Prayers of the Faithful, our troops serving our country. We fervently wish for peace throughout the world, now let us acknowledge those who are putting themselves in harm’s way to help achieve this goal. Jeannette and Gene De Martini San Francisco
Takes issue with column
Column makes sense I liked the column that Jane Sears wrote, “Unholy nonchalance,” in the September 25 issue of Catholic San Francisco, your Archdiocesan newspaper. I thought that the message was very apropos, and I would like to share that message with my parishioners here in the State of Washington. With your permis-
Letters welcome Catholic San Francisco welcomes letters from its readers. Please: ➣ Include your name, address and daytime phone number. ➣ Sign your letter. ➣ Limit submissions to 250 words. ➣ Note that the newspaper reserves the right to edit for clarity and length. Catholic San Francisco One Peter Yorke Way San Francisco, CA 94109 Fax: (415) 614-5641 E-mail: healym@sfarchdiocese.org or visit our website at www.catholic-sf.org, Contact Us
Another opinion In response to Ms. Carol McMackin’s question (CSF Sept. 11) as to why aren’t women ordained priests, I would like to respectfully point out that one of the reasons many people convert to Catholicism is that we “don’t” ordain women to the priesthood. Ms. Mary Murphy San Francisco
Kennedy legacy I truly appreciated George Wesolek’s guest commentary, “The Kennedy Family Legacy” (CSF Sept. 18). Senator Edward Moore Kennedy has met his maker and so God be with him - now that his family money and elegance no longer rate. However, not every Catholic has the opportunity to confess his/her sins to the Pope on the death bed. As Mr. Wesolek wrote: “It was not what was being said by the ever-present bishops and clergy that rankled.” Certainly, if it were what Senator Kennedy desired, he should have been buried in the Catholic Church. However, either the Church is against abortion or it should be permitted for the convenience of “Cafeteria Catholics.” It is either permissible or not; you’re a Catholic or you are not; make your selection! Vice President Biden, Mrs. Pelosi, Father Drinan, et al: make your choices! You will meet your maker one day alone! Ellen Powell Penn Valley, California
L E T T E R S
I am a practicing Catholic and have been an active supporter of my parish and the Archdiocese for years. I had enjoyed receiving the Catholic San Francisco for its news on events in the Archdiocese and inspirational articles on matters of faith. I have reached a point now, however, where I cannot bear to look through it because it actually makes me feel more disconnected to the Church hierarchy. Regularly, I come upon articles that are nothing but right-wing fundamentalist politics masquerading as theology. The columns by George Weigel are almost always intolerant and offensive. But the column by Jane Sears (“Are we too hot not to cool down?” CSF Sept 11) was the last straw. That she would refer to the threat of global warming as “hot air” and “hysteria” is irresponsible, contrary to clear science and has nothing to do with faith – just politics. As Christians we are called to be stewards of our planet. Please return the paper to what it should be – a vehicle for members of the Archdiocese to keep in touch and a source of inspiration, not divisiveness. Karen Kimmey San Francisco Editor’s note: Catholic San Francisco presents a spectrum of opinion by commentators and encourages respectful dialogue.
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sion, I would like to copy it and have it as an insert in our weekend bulletin. Father Tim Ilgen, Pastor St. Rose Parish Longview, Washington
Agrees with Weigel
George Weigel is correct about Ted Kennedy’s endorsing the “welfare plantation.” The racism Ms. Hunt finds objectionable lies within the conscience of Kennedy and all the postwar (WWII) liberals who cleverly created the permanent black underclass that became and still is the electoral base of the Democrat party. Kennedy and his political brethren effectively continued the enslavement of 13 percent of this nation’s population with promises that never really materialized but in fact reduced many people to a culture of dependency and the ravages of welfare hopelessness, complacency, drugs and alcohol. Today the majority of black children is born out of wedlock and will grow into adults without the benefit of a father at home. And sadly some black leaders have adopted Kennedy’s tactics to cut out a slice of the political pie for themselves, rather than working to uplift the lives of African-Americans. Edward Binetti Daly City
‘Do not think as men’ Do not think as men do but believe. It is a matter of faith that once the bread and wine are consecrated by the priest during the Mass that it is transformed into the body and blood (soul and divinity) of Jesus Christ. This is the doctrine of the Catholic faith and the Eucharist is central to what brings life to the church. Throughout every plague in man’s history, there has been no record of the Eucharist spreading disease. That which brings Life cannot bring death. To think that worry over infection, any infection for that matter being transmitted through the sacred species is to limit the power of God over all things. Many miracles have been attributed to the holy Eucharist. Do not doubt that Jesus is truly present in the consecrated bread and wine. That which is pure remains pure. Virginia Enrico San Francisco
October 9, 2009
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The Catholic Difference
Irving Kristol, Catholic social ethicist? Several years ago, after Irving Kristol had had a cancerous lung removed, Father Richard John Neuhaus visited him in the hospital. After they chatted briefly, Father Neuhaus, at the door on his way out, turned back toward the bed and said, “I’ll pray for you, Irving.” To which Irving Kristol replied, “Don’t bring me to His attention!” It was a typical Irving remark: wry, modest, indomitable. For those with ears to hear, there was also the undertone of an act of faith. For Irving, whose practice of Judaism was not strict, was nonetheless, as he might put it, “theotropic”—intuitively persuaded that the God of Abraham, Isaac, Jacob (and, as some of us would remind him, Jesus) was indeed the Master of the Universe to which his ancestors in the shtetls of eastern Europe had prayed. Irving Kristol died on Sept. 18; it would be hard to find a man who, in our time, more vividly embodied the claim that ideas have consequences. Irving was not a conventional man of ideas, however, meaning an academic. During his tenure as editor of the Public Interest, a journal which reshaped the domestic policy debate in America, Irving famously observed that the way to change the world was through small magazines and think-tanks: a bon mot of great comfort to those of us who published in small magazines and worked in think-tanks. In his case, though, it was indisputably true and had been since the 1950s, when he helped launch Encounter, the trans-Atlantic journal of ideas that nourished a principled anti-communism in
which both conservatives (which Irving was becoming in those days) and intellectuals of the left (which he had been in his youth) could join ranks in the defense of freedom. The obituaries dutifully described Irving Kristol as a founding father of neo-conservatism, which was true enough. But that moniker—coined by an unreconstructed leftist, Michael Harrington, by the way—tends to obscure at least as much as it illuminates. In Irving’s case, what it obscured was a combination of qualities rarely found in one man: common sense (which compelled his disentanglement from the Trotyskyism of his college days); empirical rigor (which taught him to look, hard, at facts, like the fact that Great Society welfare programs were destroying the families they were supposed to help); good humor (which Irving sometimes found lacking in older styles of American conservatism, and which he supplied in ample measure); courage (to take on the settled liberal consensus among intellectual, journalistic, and political tastemakers); and foresight (as in the creation of Encounter and the Public Interest). Irving Kristol lived the last two decades of his life in Washington, but he was New York Jewish to his chromosomes; so I trust I won’t offend his memory if I suggest that these qualities were, in some sense, Catholic qualities. Despite what you will read in certain Catholic journals and blogs today, Catholic social doctrine is not about the infinite expansion of state power into every sphere of public life: education, social welfare, health
care. One of the core principles of Catholic social doctrine is the principle of subsidiarity, according to which decision-making ought to be left at the lowest possible level in a social hierarchy, commensurate George Weigel with the common good: you don’t ask the local fire department to rout al-Qaeda out of Afghanistan; you don’t ask the federal government to run the local schools or the local doctor’s office (or at least you didn’t, once upon a time). The Public Interest, which was chiefly responsible for brewing the ideas embodied in the welfare reform of the 1990s, was a journal in defense of subsidiarity and in opposition to what John Paul II called the “Social Assistance State.” That, one suspects, is why Daniel Patrick Moynihan was one of its first paladins. And that’s why it makes posthumous sense to remember Irving Kristol as a kind of Jewish Catholic social ethicist. I like to think he’d appreciate the title. George Weigel is Distinguished Senior Fellow of the Ethics and Public Policy Center in Washington, D.C.
The Bottom Line
Mean-spiritedness takes over again Anyone old enough to remember the ‘60s still has to feel sad, having heard so much hate talk in the era of the Catholic Kennedys and the emerging black-power movement. This awful talk resulted in action when hate killed President John F. Kennedy, the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. and Sen. Robert Kennedy. I think that decade marked the beginning of a serious and sad change in the U.S. involving various demonstrations of hate – shown today on TV programs. In the ‘70s, I was working at a university where one might have expected class and kindness. Hardly. Not for black Americans or for women finally reaching out to seek equality in treatment concerning human rights and employment. As a single mother of seven at the time, I could write a book on our opportunity-blocked lives. The decades since then have sometimes given me some hope that people would push mean-spiritedness aside for the greater good. But I’m losing faith in this, after listening to the televised debates that have been inundating the airwaves. What happens to a nation when super-popular radio talk-show hosts spew out hatred, comparing to Nazis some good elected officials whose policies they don’t like! And that’s only one sample of the hate talk starting to take over on radio and television!
In truth, there’s actually nothing new about good people being vilified by someone who hates them. I recently picked up a copy of a book I bought long ago about the great “apostle to the lepers,” Blessed Damien de Veuster. At age 33 the Belgian priest was so moved by the miserable conditions of the lepers that he devoted the rest of his life to helping them. Eventually he contracted the disease, dying of leprosy at age 44. The book was written in 1937 by John Farrow, a famous movie director who was awarded a papal knighthood by both Pope Pius XI and Pope Pius XII. Farrow wrote the book because, in his own words, Father Damien “could not be forgotten.” Included in the book was a letter written by a Rev. C. McE. Hyde in 1889, answering an inquiry about the “famous Damien.” Hyde’s letter against Father Damien was vicious: “The simple truth is he was a coarse, dirty man, headstrong and bigoted.” The letter, however, was seen by the noted writer Robert Louis Stevenson, who wrote a scathing commentary to Hyde, setting the record straight. Stevenson called Father Damien a “much better man than either you or me.” Most people who are the victims of mean-spirited people don’t have the good fortune of having a defense written by a man the caliber of Stevenson. Russian author Leo Tolstoy wrote about “universal hypocrisy,” and I find his words to be the true antidote to
the mean-spiritedness we are seeing today: “Not without good reason was Christ’s only harshly and threatening reproof directed against hypocrites and hypocrisy. It is not theft nor robbery nor murder nor fornication, Antoinette Bosco but falsehood, the special falsehood of hypocrisy, which corrupts men, brutalizes them and makes them vindictive, destroys all distinction between right and wrong in their conscience, deprives them of what is the true meaning of all real human life and debars them from all progress toward perfection.” Unfortunately, I believe we are being inundated with this kind of falsehood spewing out of our media outlets, motivated by mean-spiritedness. As followers of Christ, if we don’t do anything else, we have to protest this by prayer. Antoinette Bosco writes a column for Catholic News Service.
In a Family Way
A relationship with God? My wife was once advised by a priest to “have a cup of coffee with Jesus.” Strange as it is to think of my wife and Jesus having coffee at Peet’s, the priest was wisely encouraging her to take some time out of her busy day, and spend it with the Lord. He was encouraging her to give that relationship the time and space it needs to fully blossom. It is not surprising that many parents find themselves drifting away from old friends as their families grow. After-school meetings, homework, sports, and the family shuttle service soon dominate spare time. Add to this our jobs of maintaining and providing for the family home, and it is little wonder that our world focus has shifted closer to home. There is nothing wrong with this focus on our families, in fact it is part of parenthood, but there are those important relationships in mom and dad’s life which must be maintained – not the least of which is their relationship with God. Considering the volumes of literature available on the subject of relationships, it is surprising how little we speak of having a relationship with God. As Christians, our relationship with Jesus should be the single-most important relationship in our lives. This is not to the exclusion of the other important relationships, but it is very source of those relationships. Admittedly, it is a bit strange to think of having a “relationship” with God in the same way one thinks of maintaining a relationship with one’s spouse, children or friends. After all,
He is the creator of the universe. Our every-day relationships are not that grand; rather, they are the nitty-gritty of life: laughter, tears, hopes and disappointments. But we have to remember that God has called us to him – not the other way around. In fact, in the person of Jesus Christ, God has gone an exceptional distance to say to each one of us that he wants a relationship with us – not the polite “Sunday only” variety, but a deep, personal life-long relationship. Our challenge then is to respond to Jesus’ invitation, and keep him at the center of our lives, even when the center of our lives may feel like a cyclone has just passed through. While each of us must come at this in our own way, here are three steps to help busy parents focus on their relationship with God: First, begin by asking if God might not already be working in your life in ways you have not recognized: * Reflect on God’s creation blossoming within your home as your children grow * Reflect on God’s care and love for you, his child, as you care for yours * Reflect on how deeply God cares for you as you wait for your teenager to get home (hopefully by curfew) Second, most challenging to busy parents are their very hectic schedules. But our relationship with God is important. Without it as a core, other relationships suffer – our families suffer. Time will always be at a premium, but nowhere does
it say your prayers have to be long or formal. Whether it is over a cup of coffee, slipping off to daily mass, or while walking the dog, make time each day to share your thoughts with God and give yourself time to Deacon listen to his response. Third, look for opporRafe Brown tunities to exercise your faith by getting involved in your community. When we offer our time and talents to organizations and people in need, we open ourselves to witness first hand God’s love at work in the modern world. Parents can find opportunities for the whole family to volunteer together and without saying a word we can do some of our very best preaching. Our relationship with the Lord is the one relationship that has proven to stand the test of time: from this life into the next. The challenge for parents is to ensure that despite their busy schedules and many responsibilities, they find the time to stay close to Jesus – for their sake, and their families. Deacon Rafe Brown lives in San Mateo with his wife and three children. He serves at St. Matthew Parish.
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A READING FROM THE BOOK OF WISDOM WIS 7:7-11 I prayed, and prudence was given me; I pleaded, and the spirit of wisdom came to me. I preferred her to scepter and throne, and deemed riches nothing in comparison with her, nor did I liken any priceless gem to her; because all gold, in view of her, is a little sand, and before her, silver is to be accounted mire. Beyond health and comeliness I loved her, and I chose to have her rather than the light, because the splendor of her never yields to sleep. Yet all good things together came to me in her company, and countless riches at her hands. RESPONSORIAL PSALM PS 90:12-13, 14-15, 16-17 R. Fill us with your love, O Lord, and we will sing for joy! Teach us to number our days aright, that we may gain wisdom of heart. Return, O Lord, How long? Have pity on your servants! R. Fill us with your love, O Lord, and we will sing for joy! Fill us at daybreak with your kindness, that we may shout for joy and gladness all our days. Make us glad, for the days when you afflicted us, for the years when we saw evil. R. Fill us with your love, O Lord, and we will sing for joy!
October 9, 2009
Twenty-Eighth Sunday in Ordinary Time Wisdom 7:7-11; Psalm 90:12-13, 14-15, 16-17; Hebrews 4:12-13; Mark 10:17-27 Let your work be seen by your servants and your glory by their children; and may the gracious care of the Lord our God be ours; prosper the work of our hands for us! Prosper the work of our hands! R. Fill us with your love, O Lord, and we will sing for joy! A READING FROM THE LETTER TO THE HEBREWS HEB 4:12-13 Brothers and sisters: Indeed the word of God is living and effective, sharper than any two-edged sword, penetrating even between soul and spirit, joints and marrow, and able to discern reflections and thoughts of the heart. No creature is concealed from him, but everything is naked and exposed to the eyes of him to whom we must render an account.
A READING FROM THE GOSPEL OF MARK MK 10:17-27 As Jesus was setting out on a journey, a man ran up, knelt down before him, and asked him, “Good teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?” Jesus answered him, “Why do you call me good? No one is good but God alone. You know the commandments: You shall not kill; you shall not commit adultery; you shall not steal; you shall not bear false witness; you shall not defraud; honor your father and your mother.” He replied and said to him, “Teacher, all of these I have observed from my youth.” Jesus, looking at him, loved him and said to him, “You are lacking in one thing. Go, sell what you have, and give to the poor and you will have treasure in heaven; then come, follow me.” At that
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n the Gospel story of the encounter between Jesus and the Rich Young Man, all appears to be going well, as the man assures Jesus that he has indeed lived the commandments since his youth. Expecting, perhaps, an assurance back from Jesus, or affirmation that he is on the right track, he receives instead one more thing to do – “sell what you have, and give to the poor . . . then come, follow me” (Mark 10:21). Instead of being uplifted (perhaps his primary expectation from an encounter with Jesus), the young man departs crestfallen, discouraged and sad. In response, Jesus utters a principle that is lacking in assurances, but serves as a wake-up call to his listeners – “How hard it is for those who have wealth to enter the kingdom of God!” (Mark 10:23). No one can deny the love Jesus had for his apostles and the rich young man. Indeed, the Gospel reading tells us that in the face of the rich man’s self-assurance in having kept the law from his youth, “Jesus, looking at him, loved him,” and loving him said, nonetheless, “You are [still] lacking in one thing.” In response to this encounter, the apostles, astonished at this principle uttered by Jesus, assure Jesus that they have indeed done as He instructed the rich man – “we have given up everything and followed you” (Mark 10:28) – perhaps themselves expecting affirmation and assurance from a man who they saw not only as teacher, but as friend. In the midst of the lavish spiritual rewards Jesus assures his followers when they follow his command – (“a hundred times more . . . houses and brothers and sisters and mothers and children and lands”) – Jesus adds one more thing to what his disciples can expect. All these rewards will come “with persecutions” (Mark 10:30). Both the rich young man and the apostles discovered a very important fact about Jesus.
Scripture reflection FATHER WILLIAM NICHOLAS
Never assurances – always one more thing! C.S. Lewis, quoting his spiritual mentor George McDonald, noted: “God is easy to please, but hard to satisfy.” For the rich young man who had lived the commandments, there was still one more thing to do; perhaps for him, the hardest task of all. For the apostles who had given up everything to follow Jesus (the very task the rich young man found so difficult), there was also one more thing, persecutions that will be suffered as part of following Jesus; perhaps for them, the hardest task, seeing how they fled in the face of such suffering when Jesus, Himself, was arrested. In our modern religious mindset, we often focus only on how much Jesus loves us; how God is a Father, not a judge (and a father who spoils his children at that). Very seldom do we reflect on just how demanding God is when it comes to embracing and living the Gospel as we follow Christ in faith. How often do people,
especially our elders, begin to retreat behind a religious and spiritual complacency, believing that they have done enough, that they can enjoy a steady, stable spiritual life, confident in their relationship with God and in the habits they have formed throughout our lives; that they can “retire” believing in all of the devotions, worship and prayers they have built up throughout their lives (or are piling up at the last minute as they reach the end of it); secure, as was the rich young man, in their fulfillment of the precepts of their faith and their keeping it from their youth? No one denies the love Christ has for all of us, a love he shares from his Father for those who follow him. Neither can one deny that God is pleased with all of our honest efforts to embrace and practice our faith both in how we live our lives and in how we worship God. At the same time, as a God who is hard to satisfy, we never see an example in the Scriptures
statement his face fell, and he went away sad, for he had many possessions. Jesus looked around and said to his disciples, “How hard it is for those who have wealth to enter the kingdom of God!” The disciples were amazed at his words. So Jesus again said to them in reply, “Children, how hard it is to enter the kingdom of God! It is easier for a camel to pass through the eye of a needle than for one who is rich to enter the kingdom of God.” They were exceedingly astonished and said among themselves, “Then who can be saved?” Jesus looked at them and said, “For human beings it is impossible, but not for God. All things are possible for God.”
where Jesus says, “You’re doing just fine. Keep it up.” Nor is He a God who will ever give us assurance, apart from saying, “You are not far …” but he never says, “You’re there!” (except His assurance to the good thief as they both hang from the cross). Rather, He will constantly remind is that we could always do a little more, that there will always be more required of us, that there will always be “one more thing” we are lacking in order to reach the perfection vital to being worthy of inheriting eternal life. In light of the fact that Jesus is “easy to please, but hard to satisfy,” how many of us, as we picture a God who loves us, as we engage in the spiritual worship and devotional life of the Church, or simply go about our daily lives, secure in our standing before God, also picture Christ looking at us with love and saying, “you are still lacking in one thing.” As we go through life looking for assurances and guarantees, looking for encouragement and some sign that we are on the right track, let us embrace our loving God as He truly is – easy to please, but hard to satisfy. Let us not fall into retired complacency, presumptively secure in our standing before God. Rather, let us see ourselves, with the Rich Young Man and the Twelve, standing before Christ. Let us see Christ looking upon us with love, but let us also hear Christ giving us no assurances, except to tell us “you are lacking in one thing.” Whatever that one thing may be for each of us, let us embrace it with joy as He draws us deeper and deeper in to the true essence of discipleship – with never a guarantee, but always with “one more thing” yet to do to become a more perfect follower of Christ. Father William Nicolas is parochial vicar at Our Lady of Loretto Parish in Novato. Visit his website at www.frwcnicholas.com.
Spirituality for Life
God judges no one There’s a question about God’s goodness as old as religion itself: How can an all-good God send someone to hell for all eternity? How can God be all-merciful and all-loving if there is eternal punishment? It’s a false question. God doesn’t send anyone to hell and God doesn’t deal out eternal punishment. God offers us life and the choice is ours as to whether we accept that or not. God, Jesus tells us, doesn’t judge anyone. We judge ourselves. God doesn’t create hell and God doesn’t send anyone to hell. But that doesn’t mean that hell doesn’t exist and that it isn’t a possibility for us. Here, in essence, is how Jesus explains this: God sends his life into the world and we can choose that life or reject it. We judge ourselves in making that
choice. If we choose life, we are ultimately choosing heaven. If we reject life, we end up living outside of life and that ultimately is hell. But we make that choice, God doesn’t send us anywhere. Moreover, hell is not a positive punishment created by God to make us suffer. Hell is the absence of something, namely, living inside of the life that’s offered to us. To say all of this is not to say that hell isn’t real or that it isn’t a real possibility for every person. Hell is real, but it isn’t a positive punishment created by God to deal out justice or vengeance or to prove to the hard-hearted and unrepentant that they made a mistake. Hell is the absence of life, of love, of forgiveness, of community, and God doesn’t send anyone there. We can end up there, outside of love and community, but that’s a choice we make if we, culpably, reject these as
they are offered to us during our lifetime. Hell, as John Shea once said, is never a surprise waiting for a happy person, it’s the full-flowering of a life that rejects love, forgiveness, and community. Father Sartre once famously stated that hell is Ron Rolheiser the other person. The reverse is true. Hell is what we experience when we choose ourselves over comSPIRITUALITY FOR LIFE, page 17
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Catholic San Francisco
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Archbishop’s Journal
Be gentle and humble of heart San Francisco Archbishop George H. Niederauer delivered the following homily at Old St. Mary’s Cathedral Oct. 3 and at the Cathedral of St. Mary of the Assumption Oct. 4. Beginning this evening and continuing tomorrow, we in San Francisco celebrate the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi, the patron of our city and of our archdiocese. It is said that Francis of Assisi is the world’s favorite canonized saint, and that goes for non-Catholics and non-Christians as well. Indeed, Pope Gregory IX enrolled Francis among the saints less than two years after his death. Why? Because of what we hear in our first reading, from the Book of Sirach: if you live your life with humility, “you will be loved more than a giver of gifts.” The truly humble person lives his or her life putting others first, ahead of self. The humble believer puts God first always. Francis’s simple, profound and pure love for God and all that God created speaks directly to our hearts, in every generation. However, let’s not sentimentally and safely put St. Francis aside as a lovely statue in the garden. In his following of Jesus Christ, Francis of Assisi experienced everything Jesus predicted for his disciples, and more besides. First, Francis experienced a conversion, a turning around and away from a life of dead end pleasure seeking to being centered in his beloved Savior. He literally stripped himself of worldly attachments. Francis took literally what Jesus calls each disciple to the Father forever. Francis also received the rare and difficult grace of the stigmata, of bearing in his own body the marks of Christ’s wounds on the Cross. Francis considered himself a rich man, and a happy one. He had so many followers so quickly partly because it was so wonderful to be around him. Francis was rich in the love of God and the love of all God’s children and all God’s creatures. His life echoed St. Paul, in our second reading from the Letter to the Galatians: “May I never boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ,” a cross that both Paul and Francis met and embraced because of their love for God and God’s people. Francis’s gift of the stigmata enabled him to echo Paul further:
Spirituality for Life . . . n Continued from page 16
munity of life with others. Human life is meant to be shared life, shared existence, participation inside of a community of life that includes the Trinity itself. God is love, scripture tells us, and those who abide in love, abide in God, and God abides in them. In this context, love should not be understood primarily as romantic love. The text doesn’t say that “those who fall in love” abide in God (though that too can be true). In essence, the text might be reworded to say: “God is shared existence, and those who share life with others, already live inside of God’s life.” But the reverse is also true: When we don’t share our lives, we end up outside of life. That, in essence, is hell. What is hell? The images the bible chooses for hell are arbitrary and vary greatly. The popular mind tends to picture hell as fire, eternal fire, but that is only one image, and not necessarily the dominant one, in scripture. Among other things, scripture speaks of hell as “experiencing God’s wrath,” as “being outside” the wedding and the dance, as “mourning and weeping and grinding our teeth,” as being consigned to the “Gehenna” (a garbage dump outside of Jerusalem), as being eaten by worms, as fire, as missing out on the banquet, as being outside the kingdom, as living inside a bitter and warped heart, and as missing out on life. In the end, all these images point to the same thing: Hell is the pain and bitterness, the fire, we experience when we culpably put ourselves outside of the community of life. And it is always self-inflicted. It is never imposed by God. God doesn’t deal death and God sends nobody to hell. When Jesus speaks of God, he never speaks of God as dealing both life and death, but only as dealing life. Death has its origins elsewhere, as does lying, rationalization, bitterness, hardness of heart, and hell. To say that God does not create hell or send anyone there does not downplay the existence of evil and sin or the danger of eternal punishment, it only pinpoints their origins and makes clear who it is who makes the judgment and who it is who does the sentencing. God does neither; he neither creates hell nor sends anyone to it. We do both. As Jesus tells us in John’s Gospel: “God did not send the Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him. Those who believe in him are not condemned; but those who do not believe are condemned already, because they have not believed in the name of the only Son of God. And this is the judgment, the light has come into the world, and the people loved darkness rather than light … I judge no one.” He doesn’t need to. Oblate Father Ron Rolheiser, theologian, teacher, and award-winning author, is President of the Oblate School of Theology in San Antonio, TX.
“I bear the marks of Jesus in my body.” Francis of Assisi was holy because he tried always to do God’s will, to do what God wanted him to do with the gifts he had given him. God’s will. What God wants. Those are big ideas. Many people will tell you they know what God really thinks and what God really wants. Preachers like me are famous for doing that. Sometimes we are right, and sometimes we are not. What is the test? It is in the gospel reading today from Matthew. Jesus, God’s divine Son, says, “No one knows the Son except the Father,” and “No one knows the Father but the Son, and anyone to whom the Son reveals the Father.” This is a big claim, and Jesus begins it with a prayer: “Father, I praise you – you have hidden from the learned and the clever what you have revealed to merest children.” That’s right: the intellectually proud rejected Jesus, but the ordinary folks believed in him, took a chance on him, in large part because he took a chance on them; he treated them as if they mattered. And Francis did the same: he wasn’t ranked among the learned; instead, his simple yet profound faith and hope and love drew people to him as those same gifts had drawn people to Jesus Christ. Our-gospel reading concludes with some of the most beautiful, gentle and promising words in the Bible: “Come to me, all you who are weary and find life burdensome, and I will refresh you. Take my yoke upon you... Your souls will find rest, for my yoke is easy and my burden light.” Some spiritual writers remind us that Jesus of Nazareth was a carpenter, a man who made yokes for oxen in the carpenter shop. Being a good and honest carpenter Jesus knew that some yokes fit perfectly, and did not chafe or hurt the oxen, while others were badly made and harmed them. Jesus knew from experience the meaning of this image for the burdens people bear in life. By contrast, the burdens or yokes that we place on ourselves, or on each other, or that society places on us, are often very heavy, and those burdens can weaken and wound and even break us. However, God does not ask us to bear any burden that he does not equip us to carry, with the strength
that our faith and our sisters and brothers in Christ make possible. God counts on working through us to strengthen others for the bearing of their burdens. That’s why St. Paul, in one of his letters, urges Christians to Archbishop help carry one another’s George H. burdens. We are graces to one another. If Francis of Neiderauer Assisi had not cooperated with God’s grace in his life, think of how much heavier the burden of doing God’s will would have been for people in his own time, and for each generation since then, deprived of his example and his love. In this gospel passage, Jesus tells us why we can trust him as our taskmaster: “Learn from me, for I am gentle and humble of heart.” Jesus lived his life, died his death, and rose from the dead so that we might have our sins forgiven and live his life now and forever. In every age God raises up women and men to remind us again by their lives how gentle and humble and loving Christ is, and wants us to be. God raised up Francis of Assisi in that gentle, humble, loving way, and, 900 years later, we have not forgotten or lost the power of his example. Many feel that Mother Teresa of Calcutta was such a figure in the last century. They are graces, sources of strength for us in our journey of faith. What does God want? Jesus Christ gives us the answer to that question: God wants life, love and salvation for us now, and forever, in Christ. Not because I say so, but because God has said so in Christ, and goes on saying so, to Francis of Assisi, to you, and to me. We pray that God will say so to others through you and me as well.
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October 9, 2009
Catholics pray for victims, help with disasters in Asia, South Pacific
A villager collects belongings from the ruins of his house in Pariaman, a coastal town in the West Sumatra province of Indonesia following a devastating earthquake. Catholic aid agencies were mobilizing to help victims of a series of natural disasters in Asia and the South Pacific.
By Catholic News Service JAKARTA, Indonesia – In a week of natural disasters in Asia and the South Pacific, Catholics gathered to pray for the victims and Catholic aid agencies helped the survivors. In Indonesia, where two earthquakes hit within two days, Catholics in Padang attended Mass outside the damaged cathedral. Staff of the U.S. bishops’ Catholic Relief Services visited villages about three hours from Padang and discovered that at least 80 percent of homes were damaged and uninhabitable. In the South Pacific, where more than 170 people died after an earthquake triggered tsunamis Sept. 29, Christians gathered to pray for victims and give thanks for their own survival. At Immaculate Conception of Mary Cathedral in Apia, Samoa, Msgr. Ioane Vito told the congregation: “Don’t dwell on it, but (let us) rebuild our lives together as a community,” the BBC reported. In the Philippines, where 300 people died
in and around Manila from Typhoon Ketsana, Typhoon Parma left at least 16 people dead. Weather officials predicted Parma would linger, as another typhoon, Melor, churned east of the Philippines, acting as a magnet. And in southern India, church workers joined rescue and relief efforts after torrential rains caused floods and mudslides, claiming more than 200 lives and displacing nearly 750,000 people, reported the Asian church news agency UCA News. Much of the aid in all these countries was being coordinated by Caritas, the Catholic Church’s network of charitable aid agencies, although religious orders, lay communities and organizations, and Catholics at the parish level were doing what they could to help the victims. On Oct. 5, the Indonesian government announced that more than 1,000 people had died in the earthquakes and, in Padang, they abandoned the search for the remaining 1,000 missing. The same day, UNICEF announced it was
Dinner with Most Reverend Salvatore Cordileone ADSAD
Tuesday, October 20, 2009 at 5:30 pm Presented by the Catholic Professional & Business Club
About Bishop Cordileone, new Bishop of Oakland Most Reverend Salvatore Cordileone was born in San Diego, California. He earned a Bachelor’s degree in Philosophy in 1978 from the University of San Diego. He then furthered his studies in Rome at the Pontifical Gregorian University, earning a Bachelor’s in Sacred Theology in 1981. He returned to the Gregorian and received a doctorate in canon law in 1989. In the summer of 1995, he returned to Rome to work as an assistant at the Supreme Tribunal of the Apostolic Signatura, the highest judicial body in the Vatican under the pope. He was raised to the rank of Chaplain of His Holiness in 1999. On July 5, 2002, Cordileone was appointed as Auxiliary Bishop of San Diego byPope John Paul II. Cordileone was later named the fourth Bishop of Oakland by Pope Benedict XVI on March 23, 2009. Bishop Cordileone serves on the episcopal advisory board of the Institute for Religious Life. Within the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB), he sits on the Bishops’ and Presidents’ Committee on Catholic Education.
For Joanna Tuimavave Ilaoa, a parishioner at Our Lady of Lourdes in San Francisco, the tsunami that struck her native American Samoa had a personal impact. “Some of the people who were killed were some of the people I knew growing up when I was little,” she said. “My sister lives back home and they’re doing OK, except her husband’s niece was caught in the car going to work that morning, dropping off her son. Didn’t have time to escape.” Ilaoa said most of the victims were in cars or buses. Some tried to outrun the tsunami but the wave caught up with them, she said. “It’s very upsetting,” said Ilaoa, who is part of the large Samoan Catholic community at Our Lady of Lourdes. “There’s not a day that we’re not thinking of them, how they’re getting up in the morning and starting the day. What we’re doing in the community is just praying and hoping for a recovery.” Local Samoans are pooling their relief efforts through the Samoan Community Development Center in San Francisco. The organization is accepting donations of clothing, water and dry goods, as well as money.
A mother pushes her child in a tub through floodwaters brought on by Typhoon Ketsana in San Pedro Laguna, Philippines. The storm killed 250 people in the Philippines and left dozens missing.
erecting classroom tents, and more than 70,000 children in Padang returned to class that day. CRS spokeswoman Laura Sheahen said the agency, part of the Caritas network, was providing emergency shelter for 5,500 families in 23 villages in West Sumatra province, where Padang is located. CRS initially pledged a minimum of $400,000 in aid to the survivors. It was working with partner agencies to get shelter, hygiene and tool kits to quake victims. The Indonesian branch of the Sant’Egidio Community, an international lay Catholic association, was collecting clothing and supplies. In Samoa, the local branch of Caritas collaborated with the National Disaster Team and the Red Cross to coordinate the tsunami
Catholic Social withfollowed Specialby Reference to Pope Benedict Latest Caritas Registration startsTeaching, at 5:30 p.m. networking. Program beginsXVI’s at 6 p.m. andEncyclical, ends by 7:30 p.m. in Veritate” Includes The talkCeasar’s will outline theserved key principles CatholicNo Social antipasti throughoutfrom the evening. host Teaching, beverages. which have specific application to various sectors of society. It will then apply them to the question of ethics in the workplace, highlighting the difference between a workplace environment based on these principles and values, and one characterized by the more common utilitarian approach taken nowadays. Pope Benedict XVI’s recent Encyclical, Caritas in Veritate (“Charity in Truth”), makes a timely contribution to this discussion.
Event Details –
response. It also worked with a local Catholic school and other members of the community to respond to the emergency. Earlier in September, Caritas in Samoa hosted Caritas members from the Oceania region for a conference that included a trial run for a tsunami response. The tsunami destroyed the center on Upolu Island in which those meetings were held, Caritas said. Many residents of Samoa, American Samoa and Tonga live along the coasts, and church officials were among those who helped lead residents to higher ground, then assist them with shelter. That’s exactly what a group of Salesian nuns DISASTERS, page 22
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For information on how to help, go to www. samoancenter.org. On Oct. 2, Archbishop George H. Niederauer sent an appeal to all parishes to take up collections for the relief of the victims of a series of natural disasters in the Asia Pacific region: a devastating typhoon in the Philippines Sept. 26, a tsunami in Samoa, Tonga and American Samoa Sept. 30 and 7.9 magnitude earthquake off the coast of Sumatra Sept. 30. “Because of the proximity of all these disasters, the archbishop made a general plea for everybody,” said Msgr. Floro Arcamo, pastor of Star of the Sea Parish in San Francisco and vicar for Filipino Catholics in the archdiocese. Msgr. Arcamo said he placed a donation box at the communion rail with instructions for donating to disaster victims. “A few of my Filipino parishioners have families who are really affected – have lost their homes and some are still even missing,” he said. “What is sad is they were not even halfway through their cleanup when another typhoon came.”
(CNS PHOTO/ERIK DE CASTRO, REUTERS)
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Local Catholics worry and try to help
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St. Dunstan Parish 2009
Date: Tuesday, October 20, 2009 Location: Caesar’s Italian Restaurant, 2299 Powell Street at Bay Street Format: Registration begins at 5:30pm followed by networking. Program begins at 6pm, ending by 8pm. Includes a dinner banquet with salad, pasta, dessert and choice of Chicken Parmigiana, Veal Milanese or Combination Sea Food plate. No host beverages.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Yes, I would like to attend the Event on 10/20/09. Check one: $32 _______ I am a member . Event cost is $37 per member $39 _______ I am Not a member. Event cost is $47 per non-member Annual Membership is $45.00 per person. NAME: _______________________________________ PHONE: __________________ ADDRESS: ________________________________________________________________ PARISH: ________________________ E-MAIL ________________________________ BUSINESS NAME or TITLE: _________________________________________________ Mail this form & a check payable to “CPBC-ADSF” to: CPBC, Attn: Mary Jansen, One Peter Yorke Way, San Francisco, CA 94109-6602. To register online, http://bishopcordileonecpbc.eventbrite.com/. Payment must be received by October 14th to reserve your spot!
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October 9, 2009
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TRAVEL GUIDE For information about advertising in the Travel Guide call 415.614.5642 email: penaj@sfarchdiocese.org
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Fr. Don Hying, Spiritual Director Visit: Tel Aviv, Netany, Caesarea, Mt. Carmel, Tiberias, Jerusalem, Masada, Paris
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Visit: Shannon, Cliffs of Moher, Knock, Croagh Patrick, Kylemore Abbey, Galway, Limerick, Blarney Castle and more.
10 Days • 15 Meals: 8 Breakfasts • 2 lunches • 5 Dinners
Highlights…Budapest • Hungarian Horse Show • Mathias Church • Fishermen’s Bastion Renaissance Dinner • Vienna • Schoenbrunn Palace • Grinzing Evening • Danube River Cruise Prague • Hradcany Castle • Oberammergau Passion Play
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Catholic San Francisco
October 9, 2009
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Keats’s star burns bright in new film on the poet’s life and love By Father Basil De Pinto Music lovers frequently muse on early deaths: suppose Mozart or Schubert had lived to be forty. Would they have gone on to give us even greater works? Likewise with a poet like John Keats, who died at twenty-five and considered that posterity would deem him “one whose name was writ in water.” We will never know what might have been, but we do know that Keats was wrong; he would not be forgotten but would come to be regarded as the greatest poet in the language after Shakespeare and Milton. The new bio-pic on Keats, “Bright Star,” is far superior to most efforts in the genre, a deeply affecting account of the last year of his life, directed by Jane Campion, and starring two brilliant young actors, Ben Whishaw as Keats and Abbie Cornish as the love of his life, Fanny Brawne. Campion’s great achievement is to give us a film that is as much about poetry as about a poet, without bogging down the story with abstract discussions. Keats’s life is inseparable from his work and the director has skillfully bound the two together. Even with a minimal knowledge of the poet’s life, the viewer senses early on that it will be a short one. Tom Keats, John’s younger brother, dies of tuberculosis and the disease has begun to affect John as well. His feverish activity is evidence of his determination to cheat death of its prey and fulfill his poetic destiny. Campion tells this sad tale without a trace of sentimental-
ity but with the grace and energy of the poet himself. She is aided by the talent of Whishaw, who manages to convey the physical debility of the poet without sacrificing his powerful inner conviction and drive. Cornish is equally convincing as a young woman of intellect and sensitivity far beyond her years. Her love for Keats is grounded in her perception of his enormous beauty of soul, which he pours into his writing and which she clearly understands, unlike the critics and the public of the day. The title of the film comes from one of Keats’s shorter poems (he felt that his standing as an artist depended on
longer, quasi-epic works), but it serves as an apt description of Fanny as the inspiration of his life and his work. This and other poems are recited during the film and in every case they fit organically into the story; they are never empty interludes. The poetry and the love between Keats and Fanny grow in tandem and we sense the relentless advance of the tuberculosis that will finally kill the poet. Campion’s achievement is to make both the love story and the poet’s growing genius luminous and absorbing, even as they grower nearer the tragic end of both. This is not a “woman’s movie” as that term was once used condescendingly, but it is marked by a sensibility that is perhaps the special province of a woman. The only male director I can think of who did something similar is the late John Huston in “The Dead.” Campion’s generous grasp of the emotional range of both protagonists is clear-eyed and realistic, and at the same time warm and deeply empathetic. Depth is the principal quality of the film. As it traces the work of the artist, and the tragedy of his brief life and the loss of the one person who might have brought him personal happiness, we are called to enter into the mysterious ways that have no explanation but must be embraced with courage. This extraordinary movie is itself a work of art worthy of its subject and a testament to his life, writ not in water but in the enduring legacy of his poems. Father Basil De Pinto is a frequent contributor on the arts.
New Catholic-run school teaches 3-D animation to online student body By Mark Pattison WASHINGTON (CNS) – Ring, ring, goes the bell at the new Kolbe Film School. Well, maybe not a ring per se, but possibly an electronic chirp emanating from a computer speaker to remind students that class is about to begin. The Kolbe Film School, named after St. Maximilian Kolbe, the World War II-era Polish priest and martyr, does all of its teaching online. That works in two ways. The small student body is far-flung, allowing for some economies of scale. And the students are using the computers not for just any kind of learning, but computer 3-D animation. “I researched a little more about (St.) Maximilian Kolbe,” said Steve Baker, the school’s president and one of its instructors. “He was involved in radio, newspapers, and
his main mission was to fight laziness of the faith. We’re going with that. I figured if he had access to a computer for television and film, he’d use it.” Baker, in a Sept. 30 telephone interview with Catholic News Service from Arvada, Colo., near Denver, said most uses of 3-D computer animation are “usually dark and culture-of-death related. It kind of emptied my heart. I kept hearing the church asking, or telling, us to use the new media to spread the Gospel.” And so the Kolbe Film School was born. Baker takes his mission seriously. The home page of the school’s website, www.kolbefilmschool.com, includes this quotation from an apostolic letter issued by Pope John Paul II in January 2005, shortly before his death: “The church is not only called upon to use mass media to spread the Gospel, but today more than ever, to integrate the message of salvation into the ‘new culture’ that these powerful
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means of communication create and amplify. It tells us that the use of techniques and technologies of contemporary communications is an integral part of its mission in the third millennium.” “We’re trying to fight – take back the media,” Baker said. Classes started Oct. 1. Students will get 350 or 700 hours of training in Maya computer animation software. Baker and Thom Faulter are the faculty for now; Faulter has some “VeggieTales” projects on his resume. Both are certified Maya instructors. Baker’s background is in architecture. “When I started there was nothing like this for college; I studied architecture so I could learn 3-D modeling,” he said. “I learned it on my own and spent every day learning it.” He added, “I’m actually a licensed architect in Colorado. Actually most of my work has been Catholic churches, but my heart has pulled me elsewhere.” The student body is not huge – three, with a fourth sitting on the fence as the semester was starting – but the economics still work out for the Kolbe Film School. “Two students, we break even,” Baker said, “but to live off it we need five or more. I look at another online school and they’ve got 200 or more enrolled every quarter.” Even so, he noted, “we’ve done absolutely no advertising but we’ve got three students.” Baker sees a bright future for the school. “A future goal would be to build an actual, physical place,” he said, adding that he has conducted two-week summer computer animation camps for high school students each of the last two years. “People are interested in learning how Pixar makes its movies,” Baker said. “We’re using the same technology and same software that they’re using.” Is he eager to see the new 3-D versions of Pixar’s first “Toy Story” movies? Baker replied, “I’ve got four kids and a new 2-month-old. It’s hard to get out for two movies.”
October 9, 2009
Single, Divorced, Separated Information about Bay Area single, divorced and separated programs is available from Jesuit Father Al Grosskopf at grosskopf@usfca.edu (415) 422-6698. Oct. 23 – 25: Widowed, separated, divorced weekend at Vallombrosa Center, 250 Oak Grove Ave. in Menlo Park. For information and brochure call LaVerne at (650) 355-3978, Helen at (415) 3889651 or Ward at (415) 821-3390. You can also e-mail SJBeginExp@aol.com.
Datebook
Food & Fun
Gough and Geary Blvd. in San Francisco. Call (415) 567-2020 St. Damien’s Day at the Cathedral, Thursday, October 15: The Belgian born Father Damien (priest to the lepers of Molokai, later becoming a leper himself) will be canonized on October 11, in Rome. On October 15 his relic will be brought to the Cathedral, en route to Honolulu where the relic will be permanently housed.7:30 p.m. Reception and Veneration of the Relic of St. Damien of Molokai, Archbishop George H. Niederauer will receive the relic of St. Damien with prayer, word and song led by Bay Area members of the Pacific Islands, all are invited to attend.
Good Health
Pauline Books and Media Daughters of St. Paul, 2640 Broadway, Redwood City (650) 369-4230 - Visit www.pauline.org Second Wednesday of the Month, 7 p.m.: Catholic Fiction Book Club. Delve into some of the greatest Catholic novels of our times and times past. Discover the beauty of the written word and the power of literature to nourish faith. Discuss various works of Catholic literature and how their timeless themes relate to our own lives. Oct. 13, 27, 6:30 p.m.: The Daughters of St. Paul invite all who are interested to meet for Lectio Divina – a calm, contemplative praying of the Scriptures. Contact St. Paul Sister Armanda Santos
Trainings/Lectures/Respect Life Oct. 10, 11:30 a.m.: Rosary Rally at St. Catherine of Siena Church, Bayswater at El Camino Real in Burlingame. Parking in church lot. Event is part of national America Needs Fatima Campaign. Final apparition of Our Lady at Fatima was Oct. 13. Contact Judy Miller at (650) 342-1988. Oct. 17, 9 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.: Are you called to deeper meditative prayer life beyond Christian traditional prayers of petition, thanksgiving and praise? Join us at Most Holy Redeemer to learn and practice Christian Centering Prayer. This silent prayer gradually transforms and heals relationships with God, ourselves and with others. Suggested donation is $20. Enter on 18th St. at Diamond directly across from post office. Coffee and bagels served. Call (415) 431-8590. Oct. 24, 9 a.m. – noon: Julian of Norwich Spirituality Workshop with Paulist Father Terry Ryan at Old St. Mary’s Bookstore and Gift Shop at California and Grant St. in San Francisco. Julian of Norwich was the first woman mystic to write in the English language. Julian, along with other women, began to supplement the Latin writings of monks. Julian did not live in a monastery. She had 13 revelations in one night. She then spent much of her life writing about them. Coffee and treats begin the morning. Workshop will include a 20 minute silent meditation. For more information contact Mary Wyman of Contemplative Outreach, 415-290-1856 or mary.wyman@yahoo.com
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the Filipino American Development Foundation. Donations accepted to cover cost of materials and supplies. Contact: (415) 348-8042 or e-mail bernadette@bayanihancc.org.
St. Mary’s Cathedral
October 19, 2 p.m.: Managing Diabetes, St. Mary’s Medical Center presents a free opportunity for better health. Learn how to care for your diabetes, learn what to eat, learn why to check your blood sugar. St. Mary’s Medical Center, 450 Stanyan Street, Doctor’s Dining Room - Level B. Reserve your space now! Please call 415-750-5524 or email Christina. hayeschandler@chw.edu October 21, 6:00 p.m.: Running without Injury, St. Mary’s Medical Center’s Outpatient Therapies Department will have a physical therapist explaining how the most common running injuries occur and how to train to prevent them. St. Mary’s Medical Center, 450 Stanyan Street, Doctor’s Dining Room - Level B. RSVP to Leigh.Allen@chw.edu or (415) 750-4991.
Catholic San Francisco
Parishioners from Our Lady of Loretto Parish in Novato were on pilgrimage Sept. 22. Stops included Oakland’s Christ the Light Cathedral and back across the bay to North Beach and the National Shrine of St. Francis of Assisi’s popular Porziuncola. The trip was organized by the parish Catholic Enrichment Committee with members Jean Nelson, Jill Gregoire and Nancy Munton taking part in the trek. Parish pastoral associate, Ursuline Sister Jeanette Lombardi, was also aboard. “The architectural wonder of the Oakland Cathedral of Christ the Light speaks to the journey in faith through which we pilgrims of the Church travel,” Jean Nelson said. Jean said touching the piece of the original Porziuncola that sits with its full-scale model at the shrine was “like connecting with the humble St. Francis of Assisi.”
Reunions
Holy Cross Cemetery
Oct. 16, 5:30 p.m.: Serra High School Homecoming and Alumni BBQ. All Serra alumni welcome. Kickoff at 7 p.m. Halftime ceremony honors undefeated football teams of ’49,’68, ’69. Contact Bob Greene ’85, alumni director at (650) 593-9935 ext 191 or e-mail bgreene@serrahs. com Oct. 17, 5:30 p.m.: Junipero Serra High School Reunion Gala for Classes ’49, ’59, ’69, ’79, ’84, ’89, ’99 at Hilton SFO (formerly Sheraton Gateway Hotel), Burlingame. For more information, please contact Serra Alumni Director, Bob Greene ’85 at (650) 593-9935 ext 191 or e-mail bgreene@ serrahs.com Oct 17: St. Paul of the Shipwreck Elementary School class of ‘69 at the Basque Cultural Center, South San Francisco. Tickets are $45.00 per person. Call Pauline Henderson (Scerri) at (650) 992-5966 for more information. Oct. 31: San Francisco’s St. Philip Elementary School class of ’59 is planning a 50th reunion. For more information, contact Jeanne Newland at 650 755-9789 or geannenn@aol.com Nov. 7, 11 a.m.: St. Paul’s High School Annual Homecoming Mass and Luncheon at St. Paul’s Church followed by lunch in the parish hall. The class of 1960 is the honored Golden Belles, and the event is being hosted by their “little sisters,” the class of 1963. Cost of the luncheon is $35. For more information, please contact Marilyn Highlander-Pool at St. Paul’s rectory (415) 6487538. Nov. 14, noon: St. Emydius Elementary School, class of ’57 at Caesar’s Restaurant, Powell at Bay in San Francisco. Valet parking will be available. Tickets including four-course lunch, coffee, tax and tip are $40 per person. Please register by Nov. 1 with Bob Perry at perryr@sbcglobal.net, or Margene Fanucchi Brignetti at margenebrignetti@ sbcglobal.net. You may also send a check made payable to Sue Eckberg, 93 Rockaway Avenue, San Francisco, 94127, along with names of attendees, your telephone number and e-mail address.
1500 Old Mission Rd. in Colma, (650) 756-2060 Oct 11, 11 a.m.: Free cemetery walking tour – Notable Figures of San Francisco – a Holy Cross Cemetery Walking Tour in association with the San Francisco Public Library and the San Francisco History Association. Special Guest, Author Doug Dorst Alive in Necropolis. Call (650) 756-2060 to reserve your spot. Oct. 31, 11 a.m.: All Saints Day Mass – Todos Los Santos Celebration - All Saints Mausoleum Chapel, Msgr. Fred Bitanga is celebrant. Refreshments served in the courtyard following Mass.
Special Liturgies Oct. 18, 11:30 a.m.: Annual Breast Cancer Awareness Mass at St. Dominic Church, Bush St. at Steiner in San Francisco. All are invited including survivors, care-givers, and relatives and friends of those who have died from the disease. Dominican Father Francis Goode will preside. St. Dominic’s Solemn High Choir will lead song. Call Marti Dinan at (415) 929-9242. Nov. 1, 2 p.m.: Annual memorial Mass for all religious, alumni, friends and priests associated with St. Peter Parish and schools at St. Peter Church 24th and Alabama St. in San Francisco. Reception in parish hall. Call (415) 647-8662 by Oct. 15 if planning to attend.
Simbang Gabi Events Simbang Gabi or Mass at dawn is a novena to the Blessed Mother beginning December 16 as early as 4 in the morning and culminating with the “Misa de Gallo” on Christmas Eve to welcome Jesus’ birth. October 17, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.: Parol Making Workshops on the lower level of St. Mary’s Cathedral, Gough and Geary Blvd. in San Francisco. Hall A. Learn to craft Christmas lanterns linked to Filipino Christmas tradition. Sponsored by participating parish Simbang Gabi communities with the Parol Lantern Festival and Parade sponsored by
Oct 9, 10, 11: Mission Dolores Harvest Festival: Friday 6-10 p.m. with a pasta dinner sponsored by the MD Alumni Class of 2008. Tickets at the door. Saturday 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. Pumpkin patch, carnival games, jumpers, international foods and entertainment will be located in the school yard. Featured in the auditorium will be a free Child ID Program, silent auction, and the Tiger’s Sports Bar. Grand Raffle drawing for a Vegas weekend for two and other prizes will be held Sunday at 3 p.m. All proceeds benefit Mission Dolores School, 3371-16th St. between Church and Dolores in San Francisco. Visit www.missiondolores. org or call (415) 861-7673. Oct. 10, 6 p.m.: Youth Group Charity Night at Mater Dolorosa Parish in South san Francisco. The evening is s fundraiser for the Archdiocese of Ghana, Catholic Relief Services with 20 percent of the proceeds going to the youth group ministry. There will be a youth performance in the church, carnival with games, plenty of food, and lots of music. Please join the Mater Dolorosa Youth Group in their support of these fine causes and have some family fun, following the 5 p.m. Mass. Tickets are $7 per person. Oct. 10, 11, 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.: Annual Columbus Day Bazaar on Washington Square benefiting St. Peter and Paul Elementary School. Enjoy games, food and entertainment including salami toss, giant slide, 18=hole mini-golf, face painting, pumpkin bowling and more. Foods available for purchase include Italian sausage, grilled chicken, hot dogs, cotton candy. Call (415) 421-0809 or visit www. stspeterpaul.san-francisco.ca.us. Oct. 18, 10:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.: Ultimate Home Party benefiting work od Ladies Guild of St. Mark Parish, 325 Marine View off County Line Rd. in Belmont. Many major home franchisers and independent artists will be represented. Shop for jewelry, housewares, clothing, food items,. Admission free. Raffles every 15 minutes. Children’s Secret Santa table , too. Call (650) 591-5937 for more information. Oct. 22, 11:30 a.m.: October Fest of Good Shepherd Guild at the Basque Cultural Center, 599 Railroad Ave. in South San Francisco. Tickets are $40 per person. Bingo will be played after lunch. Proceeds benefit Grace Center, a drug and rehabilitation center for women sponsored by the Sisters of the Good Shepherd. Call Beverly Desmond at (415) 587-5374. Oct. 22, noon: Serra Club of San Fancisco annual “Almost Columbus Day” lunch at the Italian American Social Club, 25 Russia Street off Mission Street in San Francisco. Guest speaker is Randy DeMartini, executive director of the Salesian Boys and Girls Club who will talk about the arrival in San Francisco of the Salesians from Italy and of Father Trincheri and the start of the club. Lunch tickets are $20 and include wine. Oct. 24: Holy Name of Jesus School presents “Fright Fest”, a fall Halloween fundraiser featuring games, crafts, Bouncy houses, Haunted House, giant slide, BINGO, Prizes, Raffle, Silent Auction, food and much, much more. We will have snacks, lunch and dinner. Admission is free to the public. 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. at Holy Name of Jesus School, 1560 40th Avenue at Lawton. Please call (415) 731-4077 for more information.
Datebook is a free listing for parishes, schools and non-profit groups. Please include event name, time, date, place, address and an information phone number. Listing must reach Catholic San Francisco at least two weeks before the Friday publication date desired. Mail your notice to: Datebook, Catholic San Francisco, One Peter Yorke Way, S.F. 94109, or fax it to (415) 614-5633, e-mail burket@sfarchdiocese.org, or visit www.catholic-sf.org, Contact Us.
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Catholic San Francisco
October 9, 2009
Disaster . . .
n Continued from page 18 in Lepua, American Samoa, did after the first quake. Salesian Sister Margaret Bentley, provincial in Melbourne, Australia, which is responsible for Samoa, said the nuns sheltered and entertained about 200 preschool and elementary students. In New Zealand, where Samoans form the largest Pacific ethnic group, parishes around the country held prayer services for victims and their families and friends. A spokeswoman for the New Zealand Catholic bishops’ conference said its Caritas agency expected to join the wider Caritas network in Oceania to help provide relief for the tsunami victims, and Caritas officials in Australia said the same. At a Mass for those made homeless in Quezon City Philippines, outside Manila, Samuel Magallanes, 49, recalled how his 18-year-old son, Muelmar, died after saving a reported 30 people in the Sept. 26 floods. UCA News reported that he recounted how his son had helped him climb onto the roof of their home after the water rose to the second floor. The father
SERVICE DIRECTORY Roofing
said his son then helped him cross to neighbors’ roofs until they found a safer place. “Then he told me ‘Pa, stay here first, I will help those asking for help,’” the elder Magallanes said. It was the last time he was to see his son alive; a wall fell on him as he rescued victims. Luc Picard, CRS country representative in Manila, told Catholic News Service Sept. 28 that Ketsana was being called “the Katrina of the Philippines.” CRS and Development and Peace, the Canadian Catholic bishops’ international aid agency, were working with Caritas in the Philippines and Vietnam to help victims of the flooding. The Knights of Columbus also pledged aid to help the typhoon victims. The Indian government said Oct. 5 that more than 270 people had been killed by flooding in Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh states. “Our people are badly affected. Many of them are still trapped in their villages,” Bishop Henry D’Souza of Bellary told UCA News Oct. 4. Most Catholics in Bellary are poor people who live in mud houses and have lost everything, he said.
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For your local and international Catholic news, website listings, advertising information, “Place Classified Ad” Form and more!
S
Specializing In Wood Fences
Repair
(415) 786-0121 • (415) 586-6748
Homecare for Seniors
The devastation caused by the earthquake-generated tsunami is seen from an aerial view on the south coast of Samoa Sept. 30. A magnitude 8 undersea earthquake at dawn Sep . 29 set off a series of four giant waves. The disaster left more than 100 people dead, but the death toll was expected to rise.
FOR INFORMATION ABOUT ADVERTISING Call 415-614-5642 Fax: 415-614-5641 email: penaj@sfarchdiocese.org or visit us at: www.catholic-sf.org
Garage Door
Senior Care
(CNS PHOTO/NEW ZEALAND DEFENSE FORCE, HANDOUT VIA REUTERS
22
(650) 593-5959
NOTICE TO READERS
Licensed contractors are required by law to list their license numbers in advertisments. The law also state that contractors performing work totaling $500 or more must be state-licensed. Advertisments appearing in this newspaper without a license number indicate that the contractor is not licensed. For more info, contact: Contractors State License Board
800-321-2752
Catholic San Francisco
October 9, 2009
Help Wanted We are looking for full or part time
RNs, LVNs, CNAs, Caregivers In-home care in San Francisco, Marin County, peninsula Nursing care for children in San Francisco schools
Jeannie McCullough Stiles, RN Fax: 415-435-0421 Email: info@sncsllc.com Voice: 415-435-1262
Schola Gregorianum, formerly the music ministers of the National Shrine of St. Francis of Assisi, is available to provide music for weddings, funerals, and other liturgical rites. The quartet is especially trained in Gregorian chant as well as other early sacred music of the Catholic Church. For rates and more information, contact For rates and more information, contact schola Joseph Murphy Murphy scholamanager, manager, Joseph atat (415) (415)468-1810 468-1810or orvisit visitwww.sfschola.net. www.sfschola.net.
OFFICE SPACE AVAILABLE Approximately 2,000 to 10,000 square feet first floor office space available (additional space available if needed) at One Peter Yorke Way, San Francisco (between Gough & Franklin), is being offered for lease to a non-profit entity. Space available includes enclosed offices, open work area with several cubicles, large work room, and storage rooms on the lower level of the Archdiocese of San Francisco Chancery/Pastoral Center. We also have mail and copy services available, as well as meeting rooms (based on availability). Reception services available. Space has access to kitchen area and restroom facilities. Parking spaces negotiable. Ready for immediate occupancy with competitive terms. Come view the space. For more information, contact
Katie Haley, (415) 614-5556 email haleyk@sfarchdiocese.org.
HELP WANTED
20 years experience Valid CA drivers license
PLEASE RECYCLE THIS PAPER! Live-In Companion Needed Seeking mature, healthy, sincere, honest, single woman for a live-in companion. Free room and private bath. For more information, please call (415) 921-8337
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CALL 415-614-5642 FAX 415-614-5641 EMAIL penaj@sfarchdiocese.org
CALL 415-614-5640 FAX 415-614-5641 EMAIL penaj@sfarchdiocese.org
Room For Rent Richmond district in SF, $625/mo., female, non-smoker, no pets, references required. Leave msg. at (415) 387-1061 or (415) 728-5387
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Rolheiser Retreat FR. RON ROLHEISER, OMI “Creating Sabbath Space In Our Lives” 10-part DVD for group or personal retreats. Perfect for private priest retreats.
NOVENAS PUBLISH A NOVENA
Pre-payment required Mastercard or Visa accepted
Your prayer will be published in our newspaper
Name Adress Phone MC/VISA # Exp. Select One Prayer: ❑ St. Jude Novena to SH ❑ Prayer to St. Jude
❑ Prayer to the Blessed Virgin ❑ Prayer to the Holy Spirit
Please return form with check or money order for $26 Payable to: Catholic San Francisco Advertising Dept., Catholic San Francisco 1 Peter Yorke Way, San Francisco, CA 94109
Prayer to the Blessed Virgin never known to fail.
Prayer to the Blessed Virgin never known to fail.
Most beautiful flower of Mt. Carmel Blessed Mother of the Son of God, assistme in my need. Help me and show me you are my mother. Oh Holy Mary, Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and earth. I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart to help me in this need. Oh Mary, conceived without sin. Pray for us (3X). Holy Mary, I place this cause in your hands (3X). Say prayers 3 days. C.O.
Most beautiful flower of Mt. Carmel Blessed Mother of the Son of God, assistme in my need. Help me and show me you are my mother. Oh Holy Mary, Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and earth. I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart to help me in this need. Oh Mary, conceived without sin. Pray for us (3X). Holy Mary, I place this cause in your hands (3X). Say prayers 3 days. L.M.
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If you wish to publish a Novena in the Catholic San Francisco You may use the form below or call 415-614-5640
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Chimney Cleaning
24
Catholic San Francisco
October 9, 2009
OCTOBER 19, 2009
“a Eucharistic celebration for all the missions of the world” E-MAIL SPOF@SFARCHDIOCESE.ORG
World Mission Sunday 2009 Dear Friends of the Missions, World Mission Sunday which will be celebrated on October 18th is a special day for all of us who are called, by Baptism, to be involved in the missionary work of the Church. On that Sunday, every nation, even the poorest in the Developing World, contributes to the mission needs of the Church worldwide. From morning until evening in this village in Nagaland, fires burn in every home, helping to keep all warm in this very cold part of India. This young girl, like many others, goes to the field to bring firewood back to her family. Thanks to the missionaries who first came to the area more than 60 years ago, the poor Nagaland have learned the message of God’s great love for each one of us.
World Mission Sunday is celebrated in every country, in every diocese and in every parish, in a remote chapel far out in the African bush, in a predominantly Muslim or Hindu area in Asia, in a poor village in Latin America. We are citizens of the world, members of the one Body of Christ, and are best when we act lovingly and generously to our brothers and sisters in the Missions. So this year remember that on October 18th, World Mission Sunday, the family of the Church celebrates that we are “one family in mission.” Please pray for the people of the Missions and for missionaries. I ask also for your most generous help to make Christ known. The collection gathered for the Society for the Propagation of the Faith on that Sunday, the offerings of Catholic worldwide is vitally needed for the pastoral and evangelizing work of more than 1,150 dioceses throughout Asia, Africa, the Pacific Islands and remote regions of Latin America. Please know how grateful I am for your support and ask the Lord to bless your generous missionary spirit. Sincerely,
Leaving the chapel, this elderly woman belongs to one of the 200 families that belong to this village parish in Khonoma village in India. She and others regularly clean the chapel, making sure that it is a fitting place to give praise to the Lord.
Genevieve Elizondo Archdiocesan Mission Director Please remember The Society for Propagation of the Faith when writing or changing your Will.
PLEASE USE THE COUPON BELOW Your gift on World Mission Sunday supports the service of priests, Religious and lay catechists throughout the Missions who offer to the poor the “Good News “of Jesus and supports the building of churches and chapels throughout the Missions – where our mission family gathers, as we do, around the Table of the Lord, giving thanks to God for all His blessings.
Yes, I want to support the Missions. Enclosed is my contribution of: [ ] $10 [ ] $25
[ ] $50
[ ] $100 [ ] $500
[ ]$1,000 [ ] Other $
[ ] I would like to become a mission benefactor. While I can, I will support a missionary by my monthly sacrifice of $
Name: Address: City/State/Zip: Parish: Please make checks payable to Society for the Propagation of the Faith. One Peter Yorke Way, San Francisco, CA 94109-6602
Because you care enough to Share Your Love with mission children who need you.
On behalf of our Lay missionaries, Brothers, Sisters and Priests, thank you for your support. Please remember The Society for the Propagation of the Faith when writing or changing your Will.
…all of us committed to the worldwide Mission of Jesus
.