March 12, 2004

Catholic san Francisco Northern California’s Weekly Catholic Newspaper

Vatican official urges stronger ties to China ROME — A Vatican official called for greater cultural and religious relations with China, saying the West’s contact with the East must not be based on economic ties alone.

French Cardinal Paul Poupard, head of the Pontifical Council for Culture, said that an Italian film project featuring the life of Jesuit Father Matteo Ricci, a 16th-century missionary to China, would be “an important bridge of dialogue and friendship.”

“China is now a great protagonist in the world economy, but our relationship with China cannot just be an economic one. We will need a dialogue based on culture and religion,” Cardinal Poupard said.

“We are called to create a new climate of friendship between the West and China,” the cardinal said. It’s time for “a new season of dialogue and cooperation.”

The cardinal spoke March 9 as news reached Rome that a Catholic bishop was arrested in northeast China, although the arrest was not commented upon at the press conference presenting the film project.

The Vatican’s missionary news service, Fides, confirmed CHINA, page 18

(PHOTO BY JACK SMITH)

By Carol Glatz Catholic News Service

Nearly 650 people attended the 13th Annual Chinese Dinner sponsored by the Chinese Ministry Advisory Board of the Archdiocese of San Francisco on Feb. 13. Guest of Honor Archbishop William J. Levada was joined this year by Auxiliary Bishops John C. Wester and Ignatius Wang. The evening included musical entertainment, a many-course banquet and raffle. Proceeds benefit the Chinese Catholic ministries of the Archdiocese. Event planner Sister Maria Hsu of the Archdiocese Office of Ethnic Ministries and Archbishop Levada are pictured here with some of the evening’s young performers.

Church weighs decision to take religious freedom case to U.S. Supreme Court

(CNS PHOTO FROM REUTERS)

By Patrick Joyce

A Chinese woman prays at a governmentsanctioned church in Shanghai, China.

Lawyers for the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops will determine the Church’s legal response to the March 1 California State Supreme Court decision upholding a state law that requires Catholic Charities and other Catholic organizations to provide contraceptive coverage in their employee health plans.

The lawsuit challenging the state law, which was enacted in 2000, was brought by Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Sacramento.

“We have 90 days within which to appeal to the U.S Supreme Court,” Ned Dolejsi, executive director of the California Catholic Conference, said. “Our lawyers will be working with the USCCB legal team.

We are suggesting to the bishops of California that they maintain the status quo until it is determined what our legal and political options are.”

The status quo is a mixed picture. Before the law requiring contraceptive coverage went into effect in 2000, some Catholic organizations, such as hospitals and social service agencies, had health insur-

ance plans that included contraceptive coverage, at times due to union contracts. After the law went into effect, more Catholic organizations found themselves forced to include the coverage as their health insurance contracts were renewed, but they told their insurers they were doing so under duress.

Some, however, were able to continue to exclude contraceptive coverage during the appeal process.

Mr. Dolejsi finds the situation “very troubling” not just for the Catholic Church but for all religious organizations that reach out beyond their church doors to help their neighbors.

“This is the first time in the history of the United States that a state has said it has the competence to determine what is – and what is not – a ministry of a church,” he said. “That is very frightening. No matter what one thinks about contraception, this ruling puts in jeopardy the religious freedom of every church that partners with the state to provide social, health or educational services.”

SUPREME COURT, page 18

INSIDE THIS WEEK’S EDITION ‘The Passion’ and teens . . . 6 Women theologians . . . . . . 7 This Catholic Life . . . . . . . 9 ‘Gay Marriage’ confusions . 12 Scripture page . . . . . . . . . 14

THIRD SUNDAY OF LENT MARCH 14

March 12, 2004

AlmaVia opens doors

St. Patrick’s Day

Datebook . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

~ Pages 10-11 ~

~ Page 15 ~

www.catholic-sf.org

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VOLUME 6

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No. 10

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Catholic San Francisco

March 12, 2004

On The Where You Live

by Tom Burke Singing the blues, at least the Hill Street and NYPD versions, is the drama department of Archbishop Riordan High School who will honor Joe Spano, a ‘63 alum and former star of the popular shows, March 27th. Joe will be presented with Riordan’s Lindland Award, a recognition for alumni who have taken the skills they honed on the Riordan stage to higher achievements, according to Kathleen Hayden of the school’s development department. The prize is named for the school’s first drama director, James Lindland. The award presentation is part of Alumni Night and opening weekend festivities for the school’s Spring Musical, Hello Dolly! Joe and Dolly director, Valerie O’Riordan, met this summer when the TV personality was appearing in a play at his college stomping grounds, UC Berkeley. Joining Joe in the honoree circle will be additional players from Riordan’s past shows including brothers Dominic Nolfi ’96 and Dario Nolfi ’97 who have been named to the Riordan Drama Honor Roll.

The lads have seen show biz as a career path since their high school days, said their mom Janine Nolfi, now in her 19th year as dance director at Mercy High School, San Francisco. Both are now working, auditioning and making their home in Los Angeles, their mom said, having been back for a coupla’ months from an 18-month European tour of Grease where both played principal roles. Dominic is a Boston Conservatory of Music grad. Dario’s alma mater is the television and film school at UCLA. Janine and the talented men’s dad, Mark, will be married 28 years April 10th. “We met at a dance class at San

Cousins forever are, back from left, Pat Loughran, Gordon O’Keefe, Bill Langbehn, Nan and Frank Scarpino, Peg and Bill Arata, Jo Ellen and Jack Loughran. Front from left, Mary O’Keefe, Margy Loughran, Helen Langbehn, Frank Loughran.

Not available for the photo was Lori Loughran.

Catholic san Francisco Northern California’s Weekly Catholic Newspaper

Official newspaper of the Archdiocese of San Francisco

Most Reverend William J. Levada, publisher Maurice E. Healy, associate publisher & editor Editorial Staff: Jack Smith, assistant editor; Evelyn Zappia, feature editor; Tom Burke, “On the Street” and Datebook; Patrick Joyce, contributing editor/senior writer; Sharon Abercrombie and Jayme George, reporters Advertising: Joseph Pena, director; Mary Podesta, account representative Production: Karessa McCartney, manager Business Office: Marta Rebagliati, assistant business manager; Virginia Marshall, advertising and promotion services; Judy Morris, circulation and subscriber services Advisory Board: Jeffrey Burns, Ph.D., Noemi Castillo, James Clifford, Fr. Thomas Daly, Joan Frawley Desmond, James Kelly, Deacon William Mitchell, Kevin Starr, Ph.D., Sr. Christine Wilcox, OP. Catholic San Francisco editorial offices are located at One Peter Yorke Way, San Francisco, CA 94109. Tel: (415) 614-5640 Circulation: 1-800-563-0008 or (415) 614-5638 Advertising: (415) 614-5642 News fax: (415) 614-5633; Advertising fax: (415) 614-5641 Adv. E-mail: jpena@catholic-sf.org Catholic San Francisco (ISSN 15255298) is published weekly except the Fridays after Thanksgiving, Easter, Christmas and the first Friday in January, twice a month during summer by the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of San Francisco, 1500 Mission Rd., P.O. Box 1577, Colma, CA 94014. Annual subscription rates are $10 within the Archdiocese of San Francisco and $22.50 elsewhere in the United States. Periodical postage paid at South San Francisco, California.

Postmaster: Send address changes to Catholic San Francisco, 1500 Mission Rd., P.O. Box 1577, Colma, CA 94014 If there is an error in the mailing label affixed to this newspaper, call 1-800-563-0008. It is helpful to refer to the current mailing label.

Taking a break from rehearsal for Archbishop Riordan’s Hello Dolly! are some of the show’s cast including from left, Alina Fontanilla, Nolan Indefenso, Meghan Howard, Sean McFann, Kristy Choo, Marcos Cotto, Vanessa Robinson.

Francisco State,” Janine said. So Before sons, Blake and Brad, are members of St. Vincent Parish in The Parade Passes By, Put on Your Petaluma….Happy 65 years married September 14th to Sunday Clothes and bask in the Jennie and Albert Donnici, married in Kansas City and now Joe Spano Elegance of this cherished Broadway parishioners of the Parkside District’s St. Cecilia Parish. tradition. It Only Takes a Moment to call for tickets. Hurry up Hosting a family celebration of the milestone were son, Patrick or it’ll be So Long Dearie!!!. (See Datebook)…Proving the and daughter-in-law, Marilu form St. Brendan Parish, and importance of the cousin connection are descendants of Pat son, Peter, and daughter-in-law, Diane of Sonoma. Also present and Kate Dineen Loughran and John and Mary Dineen at Marin’s Buckeye Roadhouse were grandchildren and great Loughran – two brothers who married grandchildren, Patrick said. “When we two sisters and raised their children in Noe sang Happy Anniversary, everybody in the Valley’s St. Paul Parish. “Our parents’ place joined in the celebratory salute.”… seven children have been married a total of An anniversary announcement for long290 years with a total of 79 children time Holy Namers, Betty and Bill among them,” said Mary Loughran Lynch, went out minus the parishes of O’Keefe, daughter of Pat and Kate and their two loving children and spouses. Bill celebrating 52 years of marriage and about Lynch and his wife Geri are parishioners as many years as parishioners of St. of St. Isabella’s, San Rafael, and Theresa Veronica Parish with husband Gordon. and Tom Miller are St. Brendan’s parishThe whole bunch meets annually for a picioners…. Remember, this is an empty nic and the older cousins meet every couspace without ya’!!! Send items and a pla’ months, Mary said. “We’re like brothfollow up phone number to On the Street Albert and Jennie Donnici ers and sisters and get along wonderfully.”

Where You Live, One Peter Yorke Way, Much missed are cousin George Loughran who died in 1992 SF 94109. Fax (415) 614-5641; e-mail tburke@catholicand the next generation’s Mark Loughran, son of Jo Ellen and sf.org. Do not send attachments except photos and those in jpeg, Jack, who died in 2003. Mark’s wife, Tina and their two young please. You can reach Tom Burke at (415) 614-5634….

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Catholic San Francisco

3

It’s not a vocations crisis but a commitment crisis, priest says

By Jay Nies Catholic News Service COLUMBIA, Mo. — The church in the United States is not suffering from a vocations crisis, according to Father Edward J. Burns, executive director of the U.S. bishops’ Secretariat for Vocations and Priestly Formation.

Rather, he said, modern culture is suffering from a commitment crisis.

“It’s not easy to make a commitment these days,” said Father Burns, keynote speaker at the 2004 Evening with the Bishop event to benefit the Vocations Investment Partnership for the Diocese of Jefferson City, Mo. “But that is exactly what we are called to do,” he said.

All of the faithful must “rally around those who do make commitments to the church, to live a holy life,” said Father Burns. “We need to support all vocations in all ways and in all seasons. It’s so vital for us as church, in order to express the mission of Christ.”

All the church must help create what he called a “vocation culture” — “a culture whereby young men and women may courageously respond to God’s call, and to live out a life of commitment — commitment to the Gospel message, to a life of service, and life in the church.”

Father Burns talked about how the Catholic bishops of this continent responded to Pope John Paul II’s call to hold the Third Continental Congress on Vocations to Ordained Ministry and Consecrated Life in North America.

“In that congress, we vowed that we were going to establish a pastoral plan, an opportunity for how to create a vocation culture, a culture where young men and women will have an opportunity to respond courageously and commit themselves to Christ, to the church, to the service of others,” said Father Burns.

A total of 1,136 people of all ages gathered for that congress, held in 2002 in Montreal. There, a large group of young people put together a commitment and statement, identifying everything they envision in the church, and their part in it.

Recent polls in the United States have indicated that this generation of young people is “more spiritual than ever,” said Father Burns.

“Compared to the generation of World War II, the spirituality they possess is one that needs further nurturing and further formation,” he said. “It is a spirituality of young people so dedicated to their relationship to God, and so hungry for the truth and the Gospel message — the truth that is proclaimed in the church.”

He talked about how important it is for every Catholic to stand in solidarity with people who are engaged in ministry and mission. “We do have the

Priests are called to be servants of the Lord Father John Jimenez, ordained in 1998, is parochial vicar at Church of the Visitacion in San Francisco. He recalls the roots of his vocation: “The call to priesthood began for me when I was a school teacher, and two of my students were shot and killed due to street violence. I began to pray and think about the cause of violence and family or community breakdown, and I realized that only when we as a society are rooted in Christ can we then allow Christ to heal these wounds.Yet, the call to priesthood came within the context of parish life. The beauty and solace of going to daily mass, being with other members of the faithful, the praying of devotions such as the rosary, the wisdom which sustained those who came before me like my great-grandmother and my grandfather. The generosity of all the church volunteers, part of a community where you felt a bond through Jesus Christ.”

Father John Jimenez

capacity and ability to support one another in all of our ministries, in our vocations, in all that we give to the church and one another,” he said.

He urged his listeners to stand up to the mass media when reporters or comedians only talk about the church in terms of priests who have sexually abused children.

Such references, he said, ignore the breadth of the Catholic Church’s many ministries.

Father Burns said everyone in the church must be clear about his or her mission. Religious communities must be clear about their unique charisms, and diocesan priests must be clear about their priestly identity.

Parents, he said, have a responsibility to create an environment in the home that enables the entire family to pray for vocations. Parents and grandparents must ask themselves whether they discuss vocations at home and encourage their children to pray for them. Teachers must be aware of how vocations to ordained ministry and the consecrated life are presented in textbooks and in the classroom.

Religious sisters and brothers, Father Burns said, must be asked whether the way they live out the charism of their community makes young women and men want to inquire about religious life.

Priests, he said, must ask themselves whether their prayer life and personal example and the way they preach and celebrate the Eucharist properly nourish and nurture young people, so that they might also reflect on a call to vocation.

“All of us,” he said, “are called to nurture, to mentor, to teach and to invite, to create this vocation culture.”

Father Burns emphasized that the time is ripe “because young people today deeply hunger for the clarity of the Gospel message, to see the living Gospel alive in people’s hearts, and the desire to live it out themselves.”

“It is so vital that we take an opportunity like this to remind ourselves of the great past, the great challenge ahead of us, and to support one another in the process,” he said.

“Ultimately, as we look at the tasks that lie ahead of us, we come before the Lord, repeating the words of the psalmist in all that we do in vocation ministry and all we do in inviting young men and women to respond to priesthood and religious life: ‘Lord, bless our endeavors’ and ‘give success to the work of our hands.’”

“A Doctor’s Confession to San Francisco . . . ” And why, despite all, I still do what I do . . .

Dear friend,

C

onfessions are tough. Real tough. But, sometimes a confession can set the record straight, and I want to give credit where credit is due. Before I talk about my confession, though, let me say a few other things first.

Let me start by explaining the photo in this letter. You know, when I meet people in town they usually say, “Oh, yeah, I know you, you’re Dr. Leung. I’ve seen your advertisment with that picture of you and the cute little baby.”

Well, I’m the guy on the right.

Years ago something happened to me that changed my life forever. Let me tell you my story.

“Back then I was a student just about ready college, when my younger brother developed a painful leg condition known as ‘sciatica.’ In his case it came on suddenly. The pain in his leg was so intense that he couldn’t walk without limping, and sometimes he couldn’t straighten his legs to put on his socks. I remember him telling me it felt like someone was stabbing his leg with a screwdriver. He was afraid that he would be confined to a wheelchair if the disability continued. It all happened so fast, one week he was competing as an athlete at the national level and the next week he could barely take care of himself. He was devastated.

After considering surgery (that was the only option, according to the surgeon) he decided against it. I remember feeling so helpless, I wish there was something I could do for him. It was a very scary time . But there’s more . . .

A friend of mine convinced me to have my brother give their doctor a try. This new doctor did an exam, took some films, and then ‘adjusted’ his spine. He told me that the adjustment didn’t hurt, it actually felt good. He got relief, and he can use his legs again. Oh, did I mention that this doctor is a chiropractor? It worked so well for my brother, and I’m so impressed with the other ‘miracles’ I see in this doctor’s office, that

I eventually go to chiropractic school myself.

And that’s how it happened!”

Now for my son Rion (pronounced Ryan), who is the baby in the photo. He’s not old enough to know how chiropractic works, but he loves to get his spine adjusted. Along with making sure that his spine develops properly, spinal adjustments keep Rion’s immune system working at its best. Rion rarely gets sick. That seems like a small thing, but it makes a huge difference to him. It seems like only a new puppy will be able to keep up with his energy.

It’s amazing how life is, because now people come to see me with their sciatica problems.

Also they come to me with their headaches, Forty-eight million Americans no longer migraines, chronic pain, neck pain, shoulder/ have health insurance, and those who do have arm pain, whiplash from car accidents, backfound that their benefits are reduced. That’s aches, ear infections, asthma, allergies, numbwhere chiropractic comes in. Many people find ness in limbs, athletic injuries, just to name a that they actually save money on their health few. care expenses by seeing a chiropractor. Another Several times a day patients thank me for way to save . . . studies show that a chiropractor helping them with their health problems. But may double your I can’t really take immune capacity, the credit. My Here’s what some of my patients had to say: naturally and withconfession is that “Body building takes toll on my neck and back. out drugs.

I’ve never healed Dr. Leung keeps me tuned up so I can be at my best.”

The immune anyone of any(Daryl Gee, marketing rep. for nutritional supplements) system fights colds, thing. What I do is the flu, and other perform a specific “No more migranes and no more neck pain!” sicknesses. So you spinal adjustment (Petra Anderson) may not be to remove nerve running off to the pressure, and the “I feel better than I have in a long time!” doctor as much. body responds by (Cathy Cheung, CPA) This is especially healing itself. We important if you are self-employed. And an get tremendous results. It’s as simple as that! entire week of care in my office may cost what Being a chiropractor can be tough, because you could pay for one visit elsewhere. there’s a host of so-called experts out there.

You Benefit from an Amazing Offer – Look, They tell people a lot of things that are just it shouldn’t cost you an arm and a leg to correct plain ridiculous about my profession. But the your health. You are going to write a check studies speak for themselves, like the Virginia to someone for your health care expenses, you study that showed that over 90% of patients may as well write one for a lesser amount for who saw a chiropractor were satisfied with chiropractic. When you bring in this advertisement their results. That’s just incredible!

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Catholic San Francisco

NEWS

March 12, 2004

in brief

WASHINGTON — The U.S. Catholic bishops again joined their voices to those calling for a constitutional amendment to preserve the traditional concept of marriage as a Senate subcommittee held a hearing on “the judicial invalidation of traditional marriage laws” March 3 on Capitol Hill. Although no representative of the bishops spoke at the hearing before the Senate Judiciary Committee’s subcommittee on the Constitution, the chairman of the bishops’ Committee on Marriage and Family submitted two 2003 statements on the topic and asked that they be included in the record for the hearing. “We commend you for scheduling hearings ... on this vitally important issue,” said Bishop J. Kevin Boland of Savannah, Ga., in a letter to the subcommittee chairman, Sen. John Cornyn, R-Texas. The two texts submitted by Bishop Boland were “Between Man and Woman: Questions and Answers About Marriage and SameSex Unions,” approved by the full U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops last November, and a September document of the 47-member USCCB Administrative Committee titled “Promote, Preserve and Protect Marriage.”

Cardinal Dulles calls for ‘a rebirth of apologetics’ NEW YORK — Cardinal Avery Dulles called March 2 for “a rebirth of apologetics,” the defense of Christian faith by reason, because “the time is ripe, the need is urgent.” But he called for an apologetics centered on “the living testimony of believers” rather than the traditional arguments from philosophy and historical science, one focused not on the traditional question of “how we get to God” but “how God comes to us.” “The apologetics of personal testimony is particularly suited to the genius of Catholicism,” he said. “Such testimony invites us not only to individual conversion but to communion with the whole body of believers.” Cardinal Dulles, delivering the annual spring lecture of his McGinley professorship at Fordham University, said Pope John Paul II had given “timely leadership” in offering the approach of personalism, basing belief in the existence of God not on the traditional arguments but on “the aspirations of the human heart for communion with the divine.”

Greater role for women urged UNITED NATIONS — An increased role for women will benefit a society that is “organized solely according to the criteria of efficiency and productivity or of brute force,” the Vatican said in a statement presented at United Nations headquarters in New York March 4. It said women were “especially gifted” in showing the need to rise above self-interest and work for the betterment of all. “Through feminine insight, women enrich the world’s understanding, and help to make human relations between and amongst people more honest and authentic,” it said. The statement was presented to the Commission on the Status of Women by Marilyn A. Martone, who teaches in the department of theology and religious studies at St. John’s University in the New York borough of Queens. She told members of the commission, holding its annual meeting March 1-12, that the contribution of women to meeting the world’s needs was made “at great sacrifice.”

(CNS PHOTO BY REUTERS)

Bishops go on record in Senate in favor of traditional marriage

Salaj Mohammed Kasim, 7, weeps during a police raid on an embroidery workshop in Bombay, March 4, 2004.

Over 90 child laborers between the ages of 7 and 10 were rescued in India's financial hub while working in the embroidery workshop, police said on Thursday. Social groups say there are at least 35,000 children working in the leather industry, brick-making kilns, small tea shops and as rag-pickers in Bombay alone.

Decline in rate of clergy abuse seen as part of U.S. trend

Bishops should defend doctrine, rights, be model of holiness

WASHINGTON — The declining rate of child sex abuse by clergy in the 1990s parallels what seems to be a general drop-off in abuse incidents in U.S. society, said a leading expert on child sex abuse. Statistical trends in the 1990s offer “the hopeful idea that fewer children are becoming victims,” wrote David Finkelhor, director of the Crimes against Children Research Center at the University of New Hampshire. But he warned that child sex abuse in society remains a major problem, citing the hazards of Internet child pornography and online seduction of children.

Finkelhor’s article appeared in the March 2 USA Today newspaper. It was a commentary on the statistical study about the nature and scope of the clergy sex abuse crisis done by the John Jay College of Criminal Justice in New York. The study was commissioned by the U.S. bishops’ National Review Board and released Feb. 27 in Washington.

VATICAN CITY — The modern bishop should be a firm defender of Catholic doctrine, an active promoter of human rights, a “father of all” to his faithful and a model of personal holiness, a new Vatican document said. The 301-page “Directory for the Pastoral Ministry of Bishops” was prepared by the Congregation for Bishops and approved by Pope John Paul II. It was expected to be released in Italian in early March and in other languages, including English, in coming weeks; Catholic News Service obtained an early copy. The directory, which updates a 1973 version, covers every area of a bishop’s spiritual, pastoral, administrative and public activities. It emphasizes the local bishop’s ties with the pope and the Vatican and the bishop’s crucial role in promoting church communion. It said bishops should make every effort to ensure that the faithful in their dioceses receive church teachings and that documents from the Vatican are transmitted and followed.

Pope urges business leaders to balance profits, good of workers VATICAN CITY — Christian business leaders must combine strategies for making a profit with strategies for promoting the good of their workers and eliminating “the scourge of poverty,” Pope John Paul II said. Christian corporate executives express their faith through “the promotion of creative economic initiatives with enormous potential to benefit others and to raise their material standard of living,” the pope said. Pope John Paul sent his message to more than 70 business executives from 27 nations who met March 5-6 at the Vatican to discuss social responsibility and business ethics. The executives’ companies included global giants like Merrill Lynch and Unilever as well as smaller companies from India, Africa, South America and Eastern Europe. The meeting was sponsored by the Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace and the International Christian Union of Business Executives.

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– Catholic News Service

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Catholic San Francisco

March 12, 2004

Is ‘The Passion’ suitable for teens? Youth workers’ opinions differ

By Ellie Hidalgo Catholic News Service LOS ANGELES — Given the brutal violence in “The Passion of the Christ” and its accompanying R rating, parents, youth ministers and high school teachers around the country are discerning whether or not to encourage teens to see the movie.

The Office for Film & Broadcasting of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops has classified the movie A-III — for adults — “due to gory scenes of torture and crucifixion, a suicide and some frightening images.”

But the phenomenal box office success of the “The Passion” includes ticket purchases by many young people.

Chris Lyford, who directs the Office of Marriage and Family Life for the Archdiocese of San Francisco, said the film definitely is appropriate for teens who express a desire to see it — but with these caveats: “the movie should be seen in the company of parents and in the context of a faith discussion.”

Lyford said the best situation is where teens have a faith understanding, and are not coached as to what to think about the film.

Normally, R-rated movies are not used as an educational tool in Catholic high schools, Nancy Coonis, superintendent of secondary schools for the Archdiocese of Los Angeles, told The Tidings archdiocesan newspaper. Occasionally exceptions are made for films with merit as long as there is parent permission.

But seeing an R-rated movie in a theater requires that children under 17 be accompanied by their parent or guardian. Movie theaters are making wide exceptions with “The Passion” and allowing youth ministers and teachers to bring youths with permission from parents.

Nancy Longo, youth minister at St. Bernard Church in Bellflower, coordinated an Ash Wednesday parish movie outing for 120 parishioners, including many youths.

She said she wanted young people to see

the film, so they would “know the deep love Christ has for them, his forgiveness and mercy.”

The response of the youths was mixed, said Longo, the mother of seven grown children.

“For kids struggling with their faith, the movie didn’t help at all,” she said. “If you don’t understand Jesus’ life and mission, it’s hard to understand the crucifixion. I was hoping it would be more of an evangelization tool.”

But for youths who are engaged in their faith, the movie seemed to help teens appreciate the resurrection by understanding more deeply Christ’s suffering beforehand.

David Lara, youth minister at St. Joseph the Worker Church in Canoga Park, saw the first midnight showing of “The Passion” Feb. 25 and decided not to recommend the film to his youths and their parents.

“I feel that people don’t need to see this — so much blood and flesh ripped apart,” said Lara. “That type of graphic violence doesn’t make me be more spiritual.”

Lara said the film reminded him of the bloody statues of Christ he has seen in his native Mexico. Children are frightened by such gruesome images, he said.

Seeing the movie helped prepare his youth group for their upcoming re-enactment of the Stations of the Cross on Good Friday, said Alvero Avelar, youth minister at St. Frances X. Cabrini and Ascension churches in South Central Los Angeles, who took a group of nearly 30 youths — some as young as 14 — and several parents to the film Feb. 28.

“This is a visual generation and they need to see things. This movie did a great job of it,” added Teresa Castellanos, youth ministry coordinator at the parishes.

In Uniondale, N.Y., 1,400 students of Kellenberg Memorial High School marched three miles to a theater for an Ash Wednesday viewing of “The Passion.”

Students emerged red-eyed from rubbing tears away; others didn’t even have the energy to muster polite conversation on a bus ride back to the school.

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“I felt a little out of it,” said Phillip Taylor, a Kellenberg senior. “The movie took a lot out of you.”

Junior Laurie Luger, 16, admitted that she would not watch the movie again, but said she was glad to have seen it once, especially in the context of a pilgrimage.

“Some of us carried 4-foot-tall crosses” on the walk, Luger told The Long Island Catholic, newspaper of the Rockville Centre Diocese. “After three miles, my arms hurt from holding it up. I thought, ‘Jesus’ cross was so much bigger.’”

Marianist Father Philip Eichner, president of Kellenberg, said fewer than 10 students declined to see the movie, which he considered a low percentage in light of the controversy and the rating.

In Peoria, Mike Filamor, diocesan direc-

tor of youth ministry, took students from his eighth-grade confirmation class and high school students from St. Philomena’s Parish to see “The Passion” with their parents’ permission Feb. 29.

“From the beginning of the school year, I wanted (the confirmation students) to go,” Filamor said. “I wanted them to learn about Jesus and start forming a relationship with him.”

After seeing “The Passion,” Filamor said its appropriateness for teens and adults is more a matter of emotional and spiritual development than age alone.

“If you’re sensitive to violence, gore, blood and guts, it doesn’t matter what age you are,” he said.

In Champaign, Ill., nearly all of the stuPASSION / TEENS, page 7

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he theme for the 2004 American Bishops’ Overseas Appeal (ABOA) is Jesus in Disguise. The Catholic community in the United States is committed to solidarity with the poor and the vulnerable all over the world. The Collection this year is the weekend of March 20-21, 2004. Please give generously.

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March 12, 2004

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By John Thavis Catholic News Service VATICAN CITY (CNS) — For the first time, Pope John Paul II has named women to the Vatican’s International Theological Commission.

One of the two women appointees is Sister Sara Butler, 65, a member of the Missionary Servants of the Most Blessed Trinity who teaches dogmatic theology at the New York Archdiocese’s St. Joseph’s Seminary, Yonkers.

The other is a German lay woman, Barbara Hallensleben, who teaches dogmatic theology at the University of Fribourg, Switzerland. She has written on religion and culture in Eastern Europe. The appointments were announced at the Vatican March 6.

Both women have been involved in ecumenism. Sister Butler has been a member of

Passion / Teens . . .

■ Continued from page 6 dents at the High School of St. Thomas More attended a private showing of “The Passion” Feb. 25. Father Joseph Dondanville, school chaplain, said “only six or seven” of the school’s 223 students did not return permission slips to see the film.

After the movie, the students returned to school and assembled in small discussion groups. “It would be irresponsible to allow any teenager to go without the opportunity to discuss it afterward,” Father Dondanville told The Catholic Post, Peoria’s diocesan newspaper.

In Irondequoit, N.Y., a group of young people interviewed by the Catholic Courier, Rochester diocesan newspaper, after a viewing of “The Passion” said they

the Anglican-Roman Catholic International Commission, and Hallensleben has worked on Catholic-Orthodox issues.

Sister Butler, who was an early proponent of the ordination of women, said she changed her position in the late 1970s due to an “intellectual conversion” while researching the topic.

She served from 1984 to 1992 as a consultant to the committee charged with drafting the U.S. bishops’ pastoral letter on the concerns of women. Her time with the committee was among the experiences that led to the evolution of her opinion, she told Catholic News Service in Washington.

Swiss Cardinal Georges Cottier, retired secretary-general of the commission and the official papal theologian, said the naming of women to the commission was an important development.

“They were named because they’re good theologians — it’s not a concession to fem-

found value in the controversial movie despite its high level of violence.

Lynn Fraysier, 15, said it’s important for Christians to be reminded of the sacrifices Jesus made. “Some people forget, because it happened such a long time ago, how much torture Jesus went through and how cruel the Roman soldiers were,” she said.

Fraysier was among 13 teens from St. Thomas the Apostle Parish who saw the film Feb. 28 with two adults. Craig Rideout, parish youth minister, said he heard sobbing during the movie but no one in the theater left before the film was over.

“They were quiet. I was struck by how it was dead silent through all of it,” he said.

“And that’s saying a lot for me,” quipped Brighid Leavy, 16, who said she cried at the portrayal of Mary’s anguish as she watched her son crucified, as well as when Jesus’

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Pope names first women to International Theological Commission inism. I’m very happy about it,” he said.

The International Theological Commission was established in 1969 to study important doctrinal issues as an aid to the pope and to the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith. It has produced documents in recent years on such topics as deacons, Christian failings of past centuries and interreligious dialogue.

Also named to the commission were: — U.S. Jesuit Father John Michael McDermott, who teaches dogmatic theology at Pontifical College Josephinum in Columbus, Ohio.

— Father Pierre Gaudette, who teaches moral theology at Laval University in Quebec. He is secretary-general of the Quebec bishops’ assembly.

Sister Sara Butler

Contributing to this story was Stephen Steele in Washington.

cross was turned upside down after he was nailed to it.

Rideout said he thought the R-rated movie was suitable fare for most teens — but that’s where he would draw the line.

Young viewers should be old enough to comprehend why Christ would willingly endure such intense suffering, he said.

Leavy said she plans to see “The

Passion” again, but Abe Maher, 15, said he doubts that he will. “It’s not a movie you can go to see every month,” he said.

At the very least, Leavy said she hopes everyone will consider a single viewing of “The Passion.”

“It doesn’t matter who you are,” she said. “Your faith will definitely be stronger after this movie.”

8

Catholic San Francisco

March 12, 2004

By Judith Sudilovsky Catholic News Service JERUSALEM — Recent violence in the Gaza Strip has made the work of aid agencies far more dangerous, a Catholic Relief Services official said.

Omar Shaban, project manager, told Catholic News Service that the violence has made it difficult for his office to coordinate work with the agency’s Jerusalem office.

“It does affect logistic issues such as going to the Jerusalem office or them coming to Gaza. It makes communication with Jerusalem more difficult. In general it has become more dangerous,” Shaban said of the violence.

On March 6, Palestinian militants attacked Erez Crossing, the main crossing between Israel and the Gaza Strip. Four Palestinian militants and two Palestinian policemen were killed in the attack.

Shaban noted how CRS workers were at the crossing two days before the attack.

“Nobody knows what to expect from day to day,” he said.

Following the attack, Israel closed the crossing, and its forces entered Gaza to root out militants. Some 15 Palestinians — including nine militants and four children — were killed in the military incursion.

The crossing was reopened March 9.

For those three days, however, Gaza was closed off from the world, Shaban said. The Erez Crossing is used by thousands of Palestinian day laborers who must cross from Gaza into Israel for their work.

“If you ask a worker he will not be happy because it affects his ability to earn bread for his family,” Shaban said.

He said no CRS projects were affected by the most recent Israeli incursion.

However, a kindergarten the agency helped construct was partially destroyed six months ago in a military action.

Constantine Dabbagh, executive direc-

tor of the Gaza Area Committee of the Department of Services of Palestinian Refugees, which is affiliated with the Middle East Council of Churches, said that life in Gaza has not been normal for years.

Over the past two years “thousands of homes” have been demolished in Gaza, Dabbagh said.

He noted that the Christians who live in Gaza City share the same fate as their Muslim neighbors. Some 2,500 Christians live in Gaza; the majority of the 500,000 people who live in Gaza are Greek Orthodox, he said.

Unemployment in Gaza is 70 percent, he said. Mostly middle class Christians own businesses or are professionals; their businesses — like most Gaza businesses — have been adversely affected by the political situation, Dabbagh said.

He said Gaza’s young people see a bleak future for those who remain; some try to leave the area to go abroad or to the West Bank.

Dabbagh has a married son in England and married daughters in Dubai, Romania and Beit Sahour, West Bank. Two other daughters remain in Gaza, he said.

“It is easier to see our daughter who lives in Romania when she comes to Gaza through Egypt than to see our daughter and grandchildren who live in Beit Sahour, a 90-minute drive away,” Dabbagh said.

The constant violence has led to an increase in psychological problems and cases of malnutrition, he said.

On two separate occasions, he and a staff member have narrowly missed being hit by Israeli rockets fired on Palestinian militants, he said.

“We believe in God and still ... hope that one day the international community will understand that the violence is against all Muslims, Christians and Jews. If there is no occupation, there will be no incidents. We will find our way to a better way to live,” he said.

(CNS PHOTO FROM REUTERS)

Gaza violence increases danger faced by aid agency, CRS official says

Palestinians carry a youth who was wounded during an Israeli raid on Nusseirat refugee camp in the Gaza Strip March 7. Israeli forces killed 14 Palestinians in two raids, after militant Muslims staged an elaborate attack on Israeli soldiers at the border of Israel and Gaza. Pope John Paul II offered prayers for the "unacceptable" acts of violence and terrorism in Iraq, the Holy Land and Africa.

Pray the Stations of the Cross with the Little Sisters Young people of the Archdiocese of San Francisco are invited to pray the Stations of the Cross with the Little Sisters of the Poor on Friday, March 26, 4:30 p.m. at Saint Anne’s Home for the Aged, 300 Lake St. in San Francisco.

The Little Sisters are a vibrant and growing international congregation of religious women serving “Our Lord” in the poor, witnessing to the dignity of all human beings, particularly the elderly. In San Francisco, the Little Sisters have served the aged since their arrival in 1901.

All are invited to pray the Way of the Cross with the Little Sisters this lent, but young people are particularly encouraged. Praying the Stations “unites us with Jesus who is a friend in all struggles,” Sister Elizabeth Leahy told Catholic San Francisco. “The Stations are an opportunity to reflect that the trials and difficulties we endure were also suffered by Jesus. We are not alone . . . He’s our support and friend,” she said.

Father Brian Costello of St. Anthony of Padua Parish in Novato will lead the devotion through the outdoor Stations of the Cross among the Eucalyptus trees on the property of St. Anne’s Home. A simple Lenten meal with the sisters will follow. Call (415) 751-6510 for more information.

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March 12, 2004

Life

By Tom Burke Not yet tuckered out after raising her four children and earlier and subsequent careers as a Catholic school teacher, Cathy Gilligan came to the aid of immigrant women and their children eight years ago.

It’s tough pinning the feisty 75 year-old down for an interview. Beyond her dislike for publicity, she’s a lot more comfortable putting the axe to the stone and living “Mark 25” which she’s happy to explain as “Feed the hungry, clothe the naked, shelter the homeless.”

A native San Franciscan, Kathy’s is probably a familiar face and name to former students of the City’s St. Anne of the Sunset, and St. Thomas the Apostle, as well as St. Raymond, Menlo Park, and Our Lady of Mercy, Daly City, where she has previously taught. An addendum to that vocation at Palo Alto’s St. Elizabeth Seton Elementary School is where Cathy says she “fell in love with the Latino culture and people.”

After retirement in 1992 and humanitarian visits to Central America, Cathy was in a quandary as to her future. “I had gone on an Ignatian retreat at El Retiro and 30 days of silence is pretty intense,” Cathy said. “I went looking for the next step on my journey. I was full

Catholic San Francisco

9

Cathy Gilligan puts prayer into action of energy. I knew I wanted to do something for the thing to do. “Not one day would I change,” Cathy said Latino people. It became so clear to me that I should slowly in almost a whisper taking the moments of getopen this house.” ting the sentence out to remember the last 3,000 days.

The “house” is Casa Guadalupe, a humble Redwood While the memories of Casa Guadalupe will be with City dwelling that has become home and refuge to Cathy forever, its doors are now closed. More than 70 approximately 20 immigrant women and their children people, many whose lives had changed at Casa during the last eight years, and where Cathy spoke with Guadalupe, were present for a Mass of thanksgiving and Catholic San Francisco. “Our Lady of Guadalupe is the farewell in February. “It was wall-to-wall with people patron saint of Mexico,” Cathy said out in front and in the back,” Cathy about the name. The mission of the said. residence, where the women and their Her years at Casa Guadalupe have children live for two years on their been a continuing affirmation of her way to independent living, is Catholic faith. “I keep receiving all this love and Worker-based, Cathy said. grace. What it means to be a Christian, “We live like family. Everyone a Catholic, is to love one another.” shares the chores including cooking While Cathy’s “children have been and cleaning.” Living expenses are the light” of her life, Casa Guadalupe paid for the families through Cathy’s has also become part of her. “This has modest teacher’s pension and “the been a life-changing and life-giving kindness of a lot of good people.” St. experience for me,” Cathy said, speakAnthony Padua dining room and ing between kisses from women and clothing distribution center are among children who have come to visit during her special partners at Casa her final hours at the house. “It has Guadalupe, Cathy said. Adult guests been a very profound part of my life of the house are required to work outand my spiritual life. It’s very hard side the home, putting aside earnings leaving here.”

Cathy Gilligan for their new start.

Remembering how she was directed The evening meal has been the crux of the day for to establish Casa Guadalupe, Cathy exhorts others Cathy and the residents. During one period, 13 people searching to expand their journey “to listen in prayer, in dwelled in the modest five-bedroom home, including a silence.” woman and her six children. “Dinner is for those who Cathy has moved to Guerneville but has not retired live here and anyone else,” Cathy said, happy to point from her compassion-driven lifestyle. She’s now in the that it’s rare for fewer than a dozen people to pull up to midst of “at least two or three months of nothing” but the table. says she will soon be finding ways to assist the Latino While Cathy says there have been days when she’s community of the Russian River area. “I went through almost collapsed from the weighty work of Casa all this to learn Spanish, I don’t want to lose it now,” Guadalupe, she has never thought it wasn’t the right Cathy said with a laugh.

If you’d like to recommend someone for This Catholic Life, please email name, background, and contact information to Tom Burke at tburke@catholic-sf.org. Please include your name and phone number.

EWTN celebrates St. Patrick’s Day

The Eternal Word Television Network (EWTN) will celebrate the coming of St. Patrick’s day with four broadcasts saluting the Emerald Isle and the deep faith of the Irish. Noted Irish vocalist Dana will perform in an hour long special airing Sunday, March 14 at 10:30 a.m. Two 30 minute documentaries will air the following days, “The Story of Knock” on Monday, March 15 at 3:00 p.m. and “Glendalough: A Mystical Journey” on Tuesday, March 16, also at 3:00 p.m. The hour-long documentary “St. Patrick: Apostle of Ireland” will be shown Thursday, March 18 at 10:00 a.m. EWTN is available on Comcast and the Dish Network.

Visit www.ewtn.com for more information.

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AlmaVia of Sa

By Evelyn Zappia

ge-related issues were getting hard to ignore for 85-year was changing, and it was necessary to adjust,” she said. communities - AlmaVia of San Francisco passed her toug The nonprofit faith-based organization, cosponsored by the Si elderly, like Mrs. Freiberg who make major life-changing decisions struction began on the facility, adjacent to St. Thomas More Chu realizing they could experience unique and difficult transition cha Mercy Sister Joan O’Donnell supports residents through their idents are going through major transitions,” she said. “There is needs to be supported, and a spiritual wealth that they have to offe “AlmaVia celebrates the individuality of each of its residents munity relations director. “For that reason, it is not a cookie cutt determined package for any of our residents. We listen to the peo providing physical and mental care, along with spiritual care for t “Assisted living means keeping someone independent as long connected to the community, and helping them to enjoy life, regar The residence provides a variety of programs, services and activ ing needs and requests of the residents, aging from their early 60s Standard for all residents is dining services (three meals a da ident programs, weekly housekeeping and laundry, chaplaincy pro ety of seasonal programs and events.

The types of assisted living provided at the residence are exten individually designed for independent residents, those with mild t and others suffering from Alzheimer’s Disease or other forms of de “We have incredible programs for our residents with dementia are held in our gardens area with state-of-the-art floor plans desi predictable environment, two things our residents want and need.

Residents with mild to moderate degrees participate in the B cially designed memory support programs are provided in a struct The AlmaVia Gardens Dementia Care Program provides current t fering from Alzheimer’s Disease or other forms of dementia. The resid protect the residents from wandering, the doors open only when a spe “Caregivers, activities people, and the director are working con them entertained and active in a peaceful environment,” said Rin consist of a lot of handholding and encouragement.”

The director of AlmaVia, Thomas Pembleton, knows firsthand dementia. He said his mother is suffering from a form of dementi Not so, for the staff of the dementia programs whom, Pembl from dementia. “I would have no qualms having my mother here Enriching the spiritual well being of older adults is part of AlmaV Interfaith services for the community. She also provides grief counsel The chaplain encourages the predominantly Catholic residen door. She also schedules a variety of spiritual care services, includ “Interfaith services held in the St. Francis Room (meditation to which our people belong,” said Sister. She takes advantage of the a short walk from the housing.

As the only Jewish resident, Freiberg said, “I knew I was really to the residents at an Interfaith service during the holiday season.

▲

A

Patricia Kappas, youngest resident at 62.

▲

Inez Blank is also pictured left in her younger days.

▲

Hal and Marian Ward.

Joseph Murphy after his haircut.

Alice D advantage beau

Alice with

March 12, 2004

Catholic San Francisco

11

an Francisco opens its doors to the elderly

Although Freiberg had to sell her San Francisco home of 55 years, she is getting over being homesick. “I do like it,” she said.

“It is warm and very secure. Sister Joan has been very supportive - just listening and caring.”

Sister Joan seems to easily win the hearts of others. Inez Blank, a former Sunday school teacher at the City’s Lakeside Presbyterian Church toured the facility with her and said, “Sister and I had a wonderful conversation. I remember thinking ‘I don’t know about the guests, but she is awfully fun.’”

The first applicant to register at AlmaVia, Blank said she admires Sister’s openness to all faiths. “Anyone should feel welcomed here,” she said. “It’s a good idea to reach out to the Catholics because while Sister makes Catholics feel at home, she takes everyone else with her.”

After living in her San Francisco home for 50 years, the 92-year-old realized it was getting too big, and would need major repairs some time. “To my children’s delight I moved here,” she said.

Her three daughters are impressed with AlmaVia. “Everybody asks me how’s the food,” said Blank. “If food was my only worry, I would not have to make the move.”

She is delighted with the large bathrooms equipped with necessary safety devices for the elderly, huge closet space, triple paned windows, and the very pleasant staff. “I love my place, even on a rainy day it is cheerful,” she said.

Although the State does not require a nurse on duty in assisted living communities, there is a nurse on staff seven days a week.

All residents are provided alarm pendants, making a call for assistance just a push of a button away at all times.

Hal and Marian Ward, both 90-years-old, do not wear their alarm pendants. “That’s because we’re always together,” said Hal. The longtime parishioners of Daly City’s Our Lady of Mercy have been married for 62 years.

The inseparable couple had to sell their home. Marian is losing her sight, which was “turning nsive. Custom care approaches are Hal into the house chambermaid and cook,” she quipped. to moderate degrees of dementia, Hal admits, “I was running out of gas. We needed to make a decision.” ementia.

How do they like AlmaVia? “What’s not to like,” said Hal. “I can’t believe how pleasant all the a,” said Rinehart. “The programs employees are. The food is excellent, and the place is beautiful.” gned to provide a structured and Inside, the 119 unit residence are elegantly furnished community rooms, dining rooms, and a ” library. The unique gardens and walking paths add an additional sense of serenity to the environment.

BridgeHaven program, where speThe second floor is highlighted by the St. Francis Room. Inside, is a stunning icon cross of tured environment.

Jesus, who is surrounded by images of many faiths, created by Mercy Sister Celeste Maria technique sessions for residents sufNuttman. Also, a beautiful bright batik wall hanging of Our Lady of Mercy is displayed and said dents have 24-hour supervision. To Sr. Joan standing near the to represent a warm welcome to everyone under Mary’s blue cloak - furthering the focus of faith ecial key code is punched.

AlmaVia offers to all residents. nstantly for the residents, keeping Cross in the St. Francis Room.

A cluster of 11 beautiful apartments are being held for retired diocesan clergy, as structured nehart. “The dementia programs in the lease agreement with the Archdiocese of San Francisco from whom AlmaVia leases the land. “The apartments are ready and available,” said Sister Joan. d the enormous patience it takes when caring for a person with The on-site beauty parlor provides the opportunity for residents to spruce up before social events. a called Sundowners. He admits, “I lose patience with her.”

The possibility of an endowment is under discussion for “below market rate placement of residents” without the economic leton said exhibit endless patience with the residents suffering means to live at AlmaVia. “Once we reach capacity, (119 units, 135 residents) we’re hoping to raise the money for an endowment, e,” he said. and add more programs,” said Rinehart.

Via’s mission statement. Sister Joan plans a variety of Catholic and Building another AlmaVia in San Rafael is also under discussion. ing, pastoral support, and is available to residents individually.

“My biggest pride for working with a non-profit is that all the money we acquire from the residents goes back into the pronts to attend St. Thomas More Church that is just outside their grams for the residents,” said Rinehart. “We don’t have shareholders or receive state or government money. There are no high ing praying the Rosary and communion services. paid employee members either. The people working here just love what they do,” she said. center) include, inviting religious leaders from different faiths For more information on AlmaVia at One Thomas More Way in San Francisco, visit www.almavia.org or call e numerous faith leaders ministering on Brotherhood Way, just (415) 337-1339.

Elder Care Alliance is a nonprofit organization cosponsored by the Sisters of Mercy of the Americas, Regional accepted here when Sister Joan asked me to explain Hanukkah Community of Burlingame and the Sierra Pacific Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. ”

(PHOTOS BY EVELYN ZAPPIA)

r-old Mary Ann Freiberg. “I felt lonely when I realized my life The widow decided to research and visit several assisted living gh inspection, and secured the approval of her five children. isters of Mercy, has more than 100 years experience serving the s to move into the assisted living community. Long before conrch, in July 2002, AlmaVia prepared for their future residents, allenges. rough journeys. Many of our resvitality in people of this age that er.” s,” said Sylvanna Rinehart, comter environment. There is no preople and get to know them before those who want it.” as possible, allowing them to stay rdless of age,” said Rinehart. vities designed to meet the changs to 90s. ay), scheduled transportation, resogram, social services and a vari-

Donavan takes e of the on-site uty parlor. ▲

e is happy the results.

Mary Ann Freiberg enjoys a telephone call from her son in Italy.

Venus White, young director in Dementia Gardens.

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Catholic San Francisco

March 12, 2004

Catholic san Francisco Northern California’s Weekly Catholic Newspaper

‘Gay marriage’ confusions

By Thomas Sowell Few issues have produced as much confused thinking as the “gay marriage” issue.

There is, for example, the argument that the government has no business getting involved with marriage in the first place. That is a personal relation, the argument goes.

Love affairs are personal relations. Marriage is a legal relation. To say that government should not get involved in legal relations is to say that government has no business governing.

Homosexuals were on their strongest ground when they said that what happens between “consenting adults” in private is none of the government’s business. But now gay activists are taking the opposite view, that it is government’s business — and that government has an obligation to give its approval.

Then there are the strained analogies with the civil rights struggles of the 1960s. Rosa Parks and Martin Luther King challenged the racial laws of their time. So, the argument goes, what is wrong with Thomas Sowell Massachusetts judges and the mayor of San Francisco challenging laws that they consider unjust today?

First of all, Rosa Parks and Martin Luther King were private citizens and they did not put themselves above the law. On the contrary, they submitted to arrest in order to gain the public support needed to change the laws.

As private citizens, neither Mrs. Parks nor Dr. King wielded the power of government. Their situation was very different from that of public officials who use the power delegated to them through the framework of law to betray that framework itself, which they swore to uphold as a condition of receiving their power.

The real analogy would be to Governor George Wallace, who defied the law by trying to prevent black students from being enrolled in the University of Alabama under a court order.

After Wallace was no longer governor, he was within his rights to argue for racial segregation, just as civil rights leaders argued against it. But, using the powers of his office as governor to defy the law was a violation of his oath.

If judges of the Massachusetts Supreme Court or the mayor of San Francisco want to resign their jobs and start advocating gay marriage, they have every right to do so. But that is wholly different from using the authority delegated to them under the law to subvert the law.

Gay rights activists argue that activist judges have overturned unjust laws in the past and that society is better off for it. The argument that some good has come from some unlawful acts in the past is hardly a basis for accepting unlawful acts in general.

If you only want to accept particular unlawful acts that you agree with, then of course others will have other unlawful acts that they agree with.

Considering how many different groups have how many different sets of values, that road leads to anarchy.

Have we not seen enough anarchy in Haiti, Rwanda and other places to know not to go there?

The last refuge of the gay marriage advocates is that this is an issue of equal rights. But marriage is not an individual right. Otherwise, why limit marriage to unions of two people instead of three or four or five? Why limit it to adult humans, if some want to be united with others of various ages, sexes and species?

Marriage is a social contract because the issues involved go beyond the particular individuals. Unions of a man and a woman produce the future generations on whom the fate of the whole society depends. Society has something to say about that.

Even at the individual level, men and women have different circumstances, if only from the fact that women have babies and men do not. These and other asymmetries in the positions of women and men justify long-term legal arrangements to enable society to keep this asymmetrical relationship viable — for society’s sake.

Neither of these considerations applies to unions where the people are of the same sex.

Centuries of experience in trying to cope with the asymmetries of marriage have built up a large body of laws and practices geared to that particular legal relationship. To then transfer all of that to another relationship that was not contemplated when these laws were passed is to make rhetoric more important than reality.

Thomas Sowell is a senior fellow at the Hoover Institute at Stanford University.

Charities lawsuit In response to your article on the California Supreme Court decision regarding contraception, I want to clarify that only Catholic Charities of Sacramento was the lead plaintiff in the case. None of the other individual diocesan Catholic Charities organizations, including Catholic Charities CYO of San Francisco joined in the suit.

Brian Cahill Executive Director Catholic Charities CYO

Who’s his audience?

Assistant editor Jack Smith’s commentary on “The Passion” reveals more about his political views and views concerning 21st Century American Catholicism than it does about Mel Gibson’s picture. At various places, he refers to a narcissistic boomer generation plunged into despair and isolation, the media elite such as the New York Times, secular critics who are religiously and culturally illiterate, and modern Americans who no longer believe in sin. For whom, exactly, is he writing this commentary? Such a disdainful, superior attitude seems hardly in keeping with an article celebrating Christ’s Passion, one that was suffered for all.

However, his negative view of society at large certainly coincides with his positive review of the movie. One reason I have such a problem with this film is that it’s view of humanity is uniformly dark.

Except for Jesus, Mary, and Simon, people are by turns cowardly, vicious, and sadistic. Gibson even uses children, some of whom are given demonic appearance, to act as the jeering, leering conscience of Judas. Mr. Smith believes we have forgotten we are sinners, and this will wake us up. He appears to have forgotten that Jesus has made us all Children of God. I have no idea whether this movie is anti-Semitic; perhaps we should ask a person who is Jewish. However, I’d like to make a couple points concerning his commentary on this topic. Mr. Smith wrote that committed American Christians are “philo-Semitic”...apparently forgetting that most of the violence committed against the Jewish people in the last 2000 years has been by people who would label themselves (mistakenly) “committed Christians.” Secondly, Mr. Smith wrote that we should wait to see whether the film actually does foster antiSemitism before we criticize it. I’m glad he’s willing to stake their well-being on it.

I have serious reservations about The Passion. The unrelenting violence, the lack of context as to who Jesus was, the barest mention of the Resurrection, its horrific view of humanity . . . all have me questioning the value of this movie. What really bothers me, though, after reading Mr. Smith’s commentary, is that my criticism of the movie apparently labels me as a narcissistic baby boomer who has no understanding of scripture and the true meaning of the Passion of Jesus. Ouch.

I’d prefer in the future that Mr. Smith stick to reviewing the movie and not the audience.

Michael Murphy San Carlos

tary, inspirational publications), pray and engage our imaginations. We try to focus on the relation between the human suffering of Jesus the Christ with the human suffering all around us and in the larger world. For the past several years, we have participated with others in our parish of St. Bartholomew’s in writing and presenting reflections on the individual Stations of the Cross. We also have a Good Friday tradition of meditation while listening to Benjamin Brittan’s “War Requiem” and Andrew Lloyd Weber’s “Jesus Christ Superstar.”

Each year we acquire new insights into and a stronger appreciation for the Redemption mystery. Each year is a journey of discovery. I know the emotional power of motion picture’s visual images, especially the violent ones. I chose not to give Mel Gibson the power to determine my Lenten experience by taking from me my personal imagining and the spiritual fruit that results from our approach to celebrating the Passion of the Christ.

Jack and Marilu Hitchcock San Mateo

L E T T E R S

The phantom of my mind I have decided not to see Mel Gibson’s “The Passion”. After listening to or reading 20 - 30 commentators, I finally made my decision when a deacon friend said “You will never experience the Stations of the Cross the same again when you see this movie.” That did it!

My wife and I approach Lent and the Triduum each year with openness and expectation. We read (scripture, commen-

Letters welcome Catholic San Francisco welcomes letters from its readers.

Please send your letters to: Catholic San Francisco One Peter Yorke Way San Francisco, CA 94109 Fax: (415) 614-5641 E-mail: mhealy@catholic-sf.org

Culture of narcissism Kudos to Jack Smith for that tour de force on The Passion of The Christ.

It is without question an excellent apologia (if there needs to be one) of this epic moment in cinema history.

As a precursor to the baby boomer generation let me also offer my congratulations and gratitude to him for his remarks on our culture of narcissism.

Michael McGreevy San Francisco

Some Christian tenets

In her Sunday column in “Northern California’s Largest (Gay) Newspaper,” [2-24-04] Joan Ryan bemoans the fact that there is “No time for Christian tenets” in Mel Gibson’s “Passion” movie. Then follows her blow-by-blow account of the gory scenes which have, according to her, preempted the missing “Christian tenets”: “Roman torturers swinging their spike-tipped whips;” “Roman guards ripping the flesh from Jesus’ back,” and other sadistic flashbacks. A point of view easy to understand from someone who “fled Catholicism years ago.” Had she read the Book before viewing the movie she would have discovered that the suffering, death, and resurrection of Christ are indeed central “Christian tenets.” Yes, the horrendous “human depravity” she had to sit through was truly gut-wrenching. But it was not a figment of Mel’s imagination. Luke did write that Jesus warned his disciples that “The Son of Man must suffer greatly.” (9:22).

But there was some saving grace in Ryan’s summation. I too would like to see a prelude that captures “the many passages about kindness and hope” in the life of Jesus, that according to the columnist, Gibson omitted. High on my list would be: Jesus at the wedding feast at Cana - where he surprises his host with the overflowing jars of “good wine”; the endearing vignette of Jesus blessing the children; his restoring dead youths to their mothers, etc. Pass it on to Mel, Joan.

Fr. Michael Ribotta Sts. Peter and Paul San Francisco

We’re to blame For the last 3 weeks I have read nothing but “gay marriage” in the Catholic San Francisco.

Why are we Catholics so upset?

First it was abortion and now it is about gay marriage. Most of us Catholics are against abortion and gay marriage, but when election time comes we Catholics sent the same people to City Hall, Sacramento and Washington - Politicians who dislike Catholics and Catholic politicians who refuse to be guided by Catholic principles.

We Catholics, especially in San Francisco and the Bay Area, are much to blame for the social and ideological mess this country is in.

August C. Pijma Redwood City

March 12, 2004

Catholic San Francisco

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The Catholic Difference When attorney Robert Bennett asked me to testify before the “causes and context” committee of the U.S. bishops’ National Review Board (NRB), I told him that, once the tape recorders were turned on, the first thing I’d say was that I didn’t think the NRB made much ecclesiological sense – but since it had been commissioned by the bishops, I believed it my duty to cooperate with their work. I’m happy to say now that, in my judgment, the NRB report released on February 27 is a genuine service to the Church and a potentially crucial step toward authentic Catholic reform.

Why? 1) Because the report is set within a genuinely Catholic and thoroughly ecclesial framework. The report makes clear that the Church, by the will of Christ, is led by her bishops; that the priest is far more than an ecclesiastical functionary; that celibacy is a great gift to the Church; that Catholic doctrine didn’t cause the problems the report addresses, but rather the failure to teach and live the truths of Catholic faith; and that what the Church needs is authentically Catholic reform.

2) Because the report squarely faces the two dimensions of the crisis – i.e., sexual misconduct and episcopal misgovernance – and suggests that both aspects of the crisis are reflections of a deeper crisis of fidelity and spirituality.

3) Because the report, rather than calling for “powersharing,” calls for evangelically and pastorally assertive episcopal leadership, including far more fraternal challenge and correction within the body of bishops.

4) Because the report faces the overwhelmingly homo-

sexual nature of the clerical sexual abuse of mirrors over the past fifty years, without either euphemism or “scapegoating.”

5) Because the report frankly describes the failures of seminaries in the late Sixties and Seventies, stressing lapses in spiritual and ascetic formation, and thus sets the stage for accelerating the seminary reform already underway.

6) Because the report decries the many occasions on which psychiatric and psychological categories and processes trumped theological categories and available canonical remedies in handling clerical malfeasants.

7) Because the report delicately suggests that “zero tolerance” is too blunt an instrument to be an instrument of genuine justice.

8) Because the report warns against encroachments by the state into internal Church governance, while also warning that those encroachments can and will happen if bishops abrogate their responsibilities.

9) Because the report demonstrates that lay people can take on a task of great complexity and delicacy in the Church and do it in such a way that, for all its (legitimate) criticism of the hierarchy, reasserts the divinely-ordered structure of the Church and calls the episcopate to exercise its legitimate authority. In this way, the report implicitly challenges Voice of the Faithful and similar organizations, by showing that a diverse group of accomplished lay Catholics can agree on an analysis of the crisis and an agenda of reform that is authentically Catholic, not an exercise in Catholic Lite.

There are particular recommendations in the report with which reasonable people can disagree – and I do. But at this

point in time, it’s much more important to concentrate on the many, many things the NRB got right than to focus immediately on this or that recommendation which may or may not be imprudent or inappropriate or in fact George Weigel inapplicable.

And it wasn’t just the report itself that was impressive; so was the way the members of the board handled their press conference on February 27.

Illinois judge Anne Burke, the interim chairman, began the proceedings with a tribute to bishops and priests. Bob Bennett was thrown a raw-meat question by a CBS reporter who asked why, if the board was so critical of the stewardship of some bishops, it didn’t call for their ouster; to which Bennett replied that that wasn’t the board’s job or the laity’s job, that was a judgment for the bishops themselves and for the Holy See. The National Review Board, created in part to appease an out-of-control media, declined to follow the media script. Rather than proposing a dismantling of Catholic belief, structure, and practice, it produced a report which persuasively argues that the answer to a crisis of Catholic fidelity is – Catholic fidelity. We’re in their debt.

George Weigel is a senior fellow of the Ethics and Public Policy Center in Washington, D.C.

Family Life

Citizens of a promised land When my small son asked me recently, “Where did I come from?” I went into instant panic. My mind ricocheted off a number of possible answers.

But then I sort of realized that the question wasn’t perhaps as loaded as I thought, and that sometimes I give too much information when a simple answer is all he’s really looking for. “You’re from San Francisco,” I said. “No mom,” said my son, who, like a good lawyer never asks a question he doesn’t already know the answer to, “I came from God.” His question made me think though, of my own problem with the question, “Where am I from?” Having moved 10 times before the age of 18, I can’t really give a simple answer. When people ask you where you’re from, they are expecting to hear one word, or at most a short answer, in reply. So when you start in on this lengthy story about your dad working for a shipping company and moving every two to three years, people’s eyes start to glaze over.

Sometimes I get tired of having such a complicated expla-

nation, and I just say, “San Francisco,” because it’s where my parents grew up and where we spent our summers. But then people say, “Oh, where did you go to school?” and I’m stuck again.

The truth is, there is no exact geographical location I can say I am “from.” Perhaps this is one reason why I consider my faith to be a true blessing.

I look around my church at the people at Mass on Sunday, and I see the most motley assortment of people imaginable. Our group includes, of course, different race and sex, but also: poor, rich, old, infants, people with crutches, people that smell bad, the extremely intelligent, and the truly insane. There is nothing I can think of that would bring this crowd together under any other circumstances.

It is the unique bond of our sacramental Church that makes questions of race, language, food, culture and social status secondary, even merely accidental. We all speak different languages, eat different foods, have different ideas about cleanliness and order and art, have different memo-

ries of places and schools and communities. Without the Body of Christ, these are the things that make us who we are. They are the answer to where we are from. But the Body of Christ within us points Lynn Smith us where we are going which tells us much more about who we are than where we’re from. Those marked with the Blood of Christ recognize each other as brothers and sisters and compatriots of a promised and eternal home.

Lynn Smith is a parishioner at St. Monica Parish and is mother of a three year old boy.

Spirituality

The Agony in the Garden: The place to stay awake As Jesus and his disciples enter the Garden of Gethsemane, he tells them: “Stay awake, watch!” The implication is that they’re about to learn something, a lesson is to be taught.

But, as we know, they didn’t stay awake, they fell asleep, not because the hour was late and they were tired after a long day, or even because of the wine they’d drunk at the supper. They fell asleep, Luke says, “out of sheer sorrow.” They fell asleep because they were disconsolate, disappointed, confused, depressed. And, because of that sleep, they missed the lesson they were supposed to learn from watching Jesus in his prayer. What was that lesson?

Jesus, himself, explains it three days later on the road to Emmaus when, in speaking of his suffering and death, he asks: “Wasn’t it necessary?” What the disciples were supposed to see and grasp in the Garden of Gethsemane was the intrinsic connection between suffering and transformation and the necessity, in that process, of being willing to carry tension, disappointment, and unfairness without giving in to despair, bitterness, recrimination, and the urge to give back in kind.

We fall asleep out of sorrow whenever we become so confused and overwhelmed by some kind of disappointment that we begin to act out of hostility rather than love, paranoia rather than trust, despair rather than hope. We fall asleep out of sorrow whenever we sell short what’s highest in us because of the bitterness of the moment.

And this is one of the perennial temptations we have in life - to fall asleep out of sorrow. Most times when we give in to weakness or commit sin we do so not out of malice or bad intent, but out of despair. For example: A number of times, I have had friends who gave themselves over to periods of sexual promiscuity even though they knew better.

They weren’t so naive or rationalizing to believe for a minute that what they were doing was either life-giving or morally right. So why did they do it? Flat-out loneliness, inchoate depression, practical despair. They were asleep out of sheer sorrow. Unspoken in their actions were these words: “Given my life, my practical situation, that’s the best I can hope for.

I’ll take second-best, even fifth-best, because for me there can be no first-best.” Their action was simply compensatory.

The same often holds true, too, when we give into bitterness, anger, jealousy, hostility, and the urge to give back in kind. Why are we sometimes so petty? Why are we sometimes less than the gracious, understanding, and forgiving persons we would like to be? Simply put, we’re biting in order not to be bitten. Some deep disappointment has rendered us asleep to what’s highest inside of our own selves and some depression has rendered us powerless to our own goodness.

It’s not easy to stay awake to the lesson Jesus was trying to teach in the Garden of Gethsemane. ● Whenever we feel so weak and overcome by disappointment that we give into actions that we know are not good for us, but seem to be the best we can do given our practical situation, we have fallen asleep out of sorrow, just as the disciples did in the Garden of Gethsemane. ● Whenever the unfairness of life so embitters us that we cannot resist the urge to give back in kind, anger for anger, recrimination for recrimination, pettiness for pettiness, we have fallen asleep out of sorrow, just as the disciples did in the Garden of Gethsemane. ● Whenever the complexity of life so confuses us that we no longer feel any obligation to take care of anyone beyond ourselves, but only want to protect ourselves, to hide,

and to find a secure place of shelter, we have fallen asleep out of sorrow, just as the disciples did in the Garden of Gethsemane. ● Whenever we feel so overwhelmed by the fact that God seems silent, withdrawn, and Father unwilling to intervene and clean up the world Ron Rolheiser that we can no longer imagine the existence of God, we have fallen asleep out of sorrow, just as the disciples did in the Garden of Gethsemane. ● Whenever we feel like a minority of one, so alone, little, and despairing before the powers of chaos and darkness that we believe that Christ is no longer Lord of this world, we have fallen asleep out of sorrow, just as the disciples did in the Garden of Gethsemane.

We’re all familiar with the popular song, “Help Me Make It Through the Night.” Its chorus gives us, in effect, a dictionary description of practical despair: “I don’t care what’s right or wrong; I don’t try to understand, let the devil take tomorrow, because tonight I need a friend.” That’s exactly the kind of sorrow that overwhelmed the disciples in Gethsemane and drugged them into sleep, numbing them both to what Jesus wanted them to see there and to what was highest inside of their own ideals.

Oblate Father Ron Rolheiser is a theologian, teacher and award-winning author.

JOHN EARLE PHOTO

The National Review Board and authentic Catholic reform

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Catholic San Francisco

March 12, 2004

THIRD SUNDAY OF LENT Exodus 3:1-8a; Psalm 103 1 Corinthians 10:1-6, 10-12; Luke 13:1-9

A READING FROM THE BOOK OF EXODUS (EX 3:1-8A, 13-15) Moses was tending the flock of his father-in-law Jethro, the priest of Midian.

Leading the flock across the desert, he came to Horeb, the mountain of God. There an angel of the Lord appeared to Moses in fire flaming out of a bush. As he looked on, he was surprised to see that the bush, though on fire, was not consumed.

So Moses decided, “I must go over to look at this remarkable sight, and see why the bush is not burned.”

When the Lord saw him coming over to look at it more closely, God called out to him from the bush, “Moses! Moses!”

He answered, “Here I am.” God said, “Come no nearer! Remove the sandals from your feet, for the place where you stand is holy ground. I am the God of your fathers,” he continued, “the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, the God of Jacob.” Moses hid his face, for he was afraid to look at God. But the Lord said, “I have witnessed the affliction of my people in Egypt and have heard their cry of complaint against their slave drivers, so I know well what they are suffering.

Therefore I have come down to rescue them from the hands of the Egyptians and lead them out of that land into a good and spacious land, a land flowing with milk and honey.” [“Come, now! I will send you to Pharaoh to lead my people, the Israelites, out of Egypt.” But Moses said to God, “Who am I that I should go to Pharaoh and lead the Israelites out of Egypt?” He answered, “I will be with you; and this shall be your proof that it is I who have sent you: when you bring my people out of Egypt, you will worship God on this very mountain.”]

Moses said to God, “But when I go to the Israelites and say to them, ‘The God of your fathers has sent me to you,’ if they ask me, ‘What is his name?’ what am I to tell them?” God replied, “I am who am.” Then he added, “This is what you shall tell the Israelites: I AM sent me to you.”

God spoke further to Moses, “Thus shall you say to the Israelites: The Lord, the God of your fathers, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, the God of Jacob, has sent me to you.

“This is my name forever; thus am I to be remembered through all generations.”

RESPONSORIAL PSALM (PS 103: 1-2, 3-4, 6-7, 8, 11) R. The Lord is kind and merciful.

Bless the Lord, O my soul; and all my being, bless his holy name.

Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits.

R. The Lord is kind and merciful.

He pardons all your iniquities, heals all your ills, He redeems your life from destruction, crowns you with kindness and compassion.

R. The Lord is kind and merciful.

The Lord secures justice and the rights of all the oppressed.

He has made known his ways to Moses, and his deeds to the children of Israel.

R. The Lord is kind and merciful.

Merciful and gracious is the Lord, slow to anger and abounding in kindness.

For as the heavens are high above the earth, so surpassing is his kindness toward those who fear him.

R. The Lord is kind and merciful.

A READING FROM THE FIRST LETTER OF ST. PAUL TO THE CORINTHIANS (1 COR 10:1-6, 10-12) I do not want you to be unaware, brothers and sisters, that our ancestors were all under the cloud and all passed through the sea, and all of them were baptized into Moses in the cloud and in the sea. All ate the same spiritual food, and all drank the same spiritual drink, for they drank from a spiritual rock that followed them, and the rock was the Christ.

Yet God was not pleased with most of them, for they were struck down in the desert.

These things happened as examples for us, so that we might not desire evil things, as they did. Do not grumble as some of them did, and suffered death by the destroyer. These things happened to them as an example, and they have been written down as a warning to us, upon whom the end of the ages has come. Therefore, whoever thinks he is standing secure should take care not to fall.

A READING FROM THE HOLY GOSPEL ACCORDING TO LUKE (LK 13:1-9) Some people told Jesus about the Galileans whose blood Pilate had mingled with the blood of their sacrifices. Jesus said to them in reply, “Do you think that because these Galileans suffered in this way they were greater sinners than all other Galileans? By no means! But I tell you, if you do not repent, you will all perish as they did! Or those eighteen people who were killed when the tower at Siloam fell on them — do you think they were more guilty than everyone else who lived in Jerusalem? By no means! But I tell you, if you do not repent, you will all perish as they did!”

And he told them this parable: “There once was a person who had a fig tree planted in his orchard, and when he came in search of fruit on it but found none, he said to the gardener, ‘For three years now I have come in search of fruit on this fig tree but have found none. So cut it down. Why should it exhaust the soil?’ He said to him in reply, ‘Sir, leave it for this year also, and I shall cultivate the ground around it and fertilize it; it may bear fruit in the future.

If not you can cut it down.’”

Scripture FATHER KEVIN GAFFEY

“I will be with you” For us, living in the twenty-first century, it is difficult to imagine a Moses. Here was a man who lived at a time when there was no electricity, television, computer, cell phone, Palm Pilot or SUV. He spent most of his life away from his home – and he traveled on foot.

In the first reading for the Third Sunday of Lent, Moses comes across a bush that is on fire. He sees that the wood is burning, yet it is not consumed by the flames. As he draws closer to inspect this remarkable sight, God calls out to him from the bush, “Moses! Moses!”

In reply, Moses says, “Here I am.” God tells Moses that he is on holy ground, saying “I am the God of your fathers, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, the God of Jacob.”

God says he has seen the affliction of his people and tells Moses that he intends to deliver his people, the Israelites, from their oppressors: And finally – news that was most disturbing to Moses – God tells Moses that he will be God’s chosen instrument of deliverance.

Moses is far from overjoyed at the news.

Like many other prophets, he is reluctant to accept the position to which he is being called. Moses is unsure as well as reluctant.

He complains, “But when I go to the Israelites and say to them, ‘The God of your fathers has sent me to you,’ if they ask me, ‘What is his name?’ what am I to tell them?”

Moses wants a name. If he is going to be a spokesperson, Moses wants to know for whom he speaks. “I am who am” is the cryptic answer.

For Moses in his hesitation, God has a reply — and it is a simple one, “I will be with you.” We hear this message spoken later to a reluctant Jeremiah, and still later to the Apostles by Christ. What comforting and reassuring words, “I will be with you.”

If we look back on the first two weeks of Lent and find that we are disappointed with the efforts we have made at penance, these words should comfort us. Like Moses we are not perfect. Yes, we are human. Like the people of St. Paul’s flock who thought they were above the laws that governed those who had not converted to Christianity, we have to be reminded that God is not finished with us. But we also should not fear a God who promises “I will be with you.”

This is indeed a time when the Church is being tried severely. There is no doubt that there are some who have left the Church because of the past scandals. This can be disheartening for us. It can test our faith in God and Church.

Does it mean that God has abandoned his flock? Never! God is as much with us today in the Church as He was present to Moses and to Paul and the other Apostles.

Yes, the Church has fallen from the ideal to which we have been called. Yes, priests and people have sinned. Yes, we have to do penance and try to make right what went awry.

But we are the Church. All of us have sinned and all of us are in need of repentance – the repentance that Christ in Luke’s Gospel calls us to seek.

This Lenten season is not a time for despair. We believe the God who tells Moses – and us – “I will be with you.”

Embracing Reconciliation

By Father Eugene Hemrick Catholic News Service The season of Lent is upon us, urging us to pull ourselves together spiritually. A good way to accomplish this is to utilize the sacrament of reconciliation more fully throughout this liturgical season and to reflect on reconciliation in all its dimensions.

Most of us see reconciliation primarily as going to confession. But it can also encompass making retreats and pilgrimages, fasting, almsgiving and doing works of charity.

In a retreat, we set aside a special time to examine our lives and how well we are living according to God’s plan for us. A retreat goes hand in hand with the sense that we are endeavoring to get our lives back in order. Retreats create the hope of changing our lives for the better.

Pilgrimages get us into the spirit of holiness by introducing us to holy places and past saints. I never will forget standing before the glass coffin of Blessed Pope John XXIII in St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome and thinking: “You lucky guy! You worked hard on your spiritual life, you tried to imitate a gentle, humble Christ and you so inspired us with your kindness. Now you are being beatified for your efforts. How I wish I could imitate you.” It was a special pilgrim moment; I felt touched by his sanctity. This same desire for holiness came over me when I visited the tomb of St. Francis in Assisi.

Fasting these days is not easy with so many delightful foods available. Yet it is one of the best means for reducing our selfishness and becoming more selfless. When we fast, we deprive ourselves for the purpose of living according to a higher order in life, putting aside our needs in order to concern ourselves with those whose basic needs aren’t being met.

Works of charity and almsgiving are a wonderful means of repaying God for all the blessings he has showered on us. They promote gratitude, keeping us forever in the debt of God and making it difficult to turn our backs on him.

In Pope John Paul II’s 1984 apostolic exhortation on reconciliation, we learn of yet another of its remarkable aspects: Reconciliation is the best means of discovering where our hearts really are. The better we understand our internal disposition, the deeper at peace we are within ourselves. Often subconscious guilt leaves us feeling downhearted, though we never quite know what the reason for this feeling is or take the time to bring it to the surface. The sacrament of reconciliation is an opportunity to surface the cause of our dejection and to put our hearts back in the right place.

We have the saying “Get a life,” suggesting we should put our lives back in order, regain balance, find our rhythm, recapture a sense of harmony and of excellence in life.

This is exactly what the sacrament of reconciliation is about.

When our conscience and God’s voice within us are at one, we have a life. May your Lenten season be life — given for you!

March 12, 2004

Catholic San Francisco

15

By James O. Clifford Sr. The series of essays last year in Catholic San Francisco, which recounted the 150year history of the Archdiocese of San Francisco, should be honored for swimming against a strong mainstream media current that emphasizes our differences.

A reader of the history series couldn’t help but conclude that Catholics, while they did not come over on the Mayflower, are still pilgrims in the same boat.

The series told the stories of just about every ethnic group that makes up our pilgrim church. No easy job as I am finding out. I belong to a research taskforce that is putting together a history of the Irish in San Mateo County. We hope to produce an exhibit at the San Mateo County Museum that will tell the tales of all immigrant groups to the area.

The others — including the Italians, Chinese, Hispanics and Portuguese — all recorded their local histories. The Irish researchers are starting from scratch. That’s a surprise. The Irish were for decades the largest group of immigrants to the Peninsula. Even today, U.S. census figures for the county show the Irish lead when people cite heritage.

There are plenty of reasons for the lack of a history. The Irish were forced to trade Gaelic for English on the old sod, but here that switch became a gift and they quickly melted into that famous pot. Also, the San Mateo County Irish were just a small number compared to those in San Francisco where the group’s history was well documented.

Thanks largely to the Catholic San Francisco essays, I was reminded just how much all immigrant groups have in common.

Is it such a big jump from Father Peter Yorke, the 19th Century priest who helped so many Irish-Catholic workers, to Cesar Chavez?

T H E

This small-scale epiphany coincided with a family history I put together. My people transplanted their roots in the Golden State during the Great Depression after sojourns to mining towns in Colorado and Montana.

Life was hard. My father described the moneyed class as “anyone who showered before they went to work,” meaning that honest work required sweat. I got the impression from the series of essays in Catholic San Francisco that fathers in other immigrant families did a lot of sweating so their children wouldn’t have to.

There was a strong sense of unity in my family. My father pushed unionism and my mother made sure we all realized that the basis of religion was love and, yes, sacrifice.

But today, division can mean power.

Think not? State Librarian Kevin Starr, a member of Catholic San Francisco’s advisory board, wrote an essay about San Francisco’s ethnic diversity for the new San Francisco Mayor’s inaugural. The essay was still fresh when he was attacked for not including the contributions of non-heterosexual persons.

Earlier, Mike Davis, author of “Ecology of Fear” and “City of Quartz,” wrote a piece for the San Francisco Chronicle that lumped the state into poor minorities and rich “Anglos.”

How could my Celtic ancestors possibly be “Anglos?”

Humorist Robert Benchley once made the point that English is our mother tongue because our ancestors spoke Yiddish, Italian or Polish.

When a politician or journalist uses “Anglo” I just tune out. They couldn’t mean me. If they do mean me, I wonder what gives one group the right to name another?

What an awesome power that is!

What a sharp contrast Davis’ observations were to the Catholic San Francisco

U N I T E D

I R I S H

S O C I E T I E S

“BUILDING

FOR

(CNS PHOTO FROM REUTERS)

All Catholics are pilgrims in the same boat

Ireland’s replica famine ship “Jeanie Johnston” retraced its namesake’s route from Dublin across the Atlantic last year. The original ship, a barque with three masts built in Quebec, helped thousands of Irish emigrants flee to North America during the Irish potato famine in the mid-1800s.

effort during the Archdiocese’s 150th anniversary year. The celebration was billed as a “year of remembrance and renewal.” Indeed it was.

Catholic San Francisco’s history series allowed us to look through a window to the past and see that we have far more in common than we think. The Irish, the Italians, the French and Germans, the Spanishspeaking, the Filipinos and more were brought under one umbrella in Jeffrey Burns’ essay, “The Immigrant Church.”

I sometimes think that those in power today want to spin diversity to make sure ethnic groups struggle against each other, just as they often did in the past.

O F

S A N

THE

F R A N C I S C O

If I really become blue over the current drive to divide, I go to church. My pastor, Father Randy Calvo once reminded his congregation at Our Lady of Mount Carmel in Redwood City that the main homing device we pilgrims have in our journey to salvation is “each other.”

Father Calvo spoke during Catholic Schools Week to a church packed with people from all races who received communion in a display of love, unity and renewal that took place under a crucifix, the ultimate symbol of sacrifice.

Through our faith and through each other we are united – pilgrims in the same boat.

P R E S E N T S

FUTURE”

MARCH 14, 2004

Starting 12 Noon • Beginning 2nd & Market and continuing to City Hall

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16

Catholic San Francisco

Lenten Opportunities March 16, 23, 30: The National Shrine of St. Francis of Assisi Lecture Series featuring talks from speakers including Franciscan Sister Ramona Miller, Father David Anderson of the Byzantine Rite, Steve Syder of St. Mary’s College, Darlene Pryds of the Franciscan School of Theology, and Stephen Cordova of Campion College. Presentations are at 7:15 p.m. at the Shrine, Vallejo and Columbus, SF. Call (415) 983-0405.

March 13, 14: Divine Mercy Adult and Youth Conference at Santa Clara Convention Center, 5001 Great America Parkway. Now is the time of mercy. Experience and share the good news of God’s mercy.” Family rate $110; adults $65; youth $25. Call (510) 412-4715.

March 13: Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur offer Saturday Morning Prayer 9:30 – 11:30 each 2nd Sat. of the month at their Province Center, 1520 Ralston Ave. across from Ralston Hall on their university campus in Belmont. Call (650) 593-2045, ext. 350. Today, Visioning a Just Society with Notre Dame Sister Margaret Hoffman.

March 15: Panel discussion on Mel Gibson’s film, The Passion of the Christ, 7 – 9 p.m. at the Pastoral Center of the Archdiocese, One Peter Yorke Way, SF. “This gathering is for anyone who will have seen the film by then,” said Mary Jansen of the Office of Young Adult Ministry which is sponsoring the event.

“It’s an opportunity for people to ask questions and have a discussion about the film.” Panelists will include a Catholic filmmaker, a representative from the Anti-Defamation League and others.

Refreshments will be served. Call (415) 614-5596 or jansenm@sfarchdiocese.org. 3500.

March 18: The Sisters of Mercy commemorate their 150th year in the Archdiocese in 2004. Among events celebrating the occasion is a speaker series with presentations March 18th at 7 p.m. at Notre Dame Plaza, 347 Dolores St., SF, and April 1st at 7 p.m. at Mercy Center. For more information, call Liz Dossa at (650) 340-7480.

March 18: Monthly breakfast meeting of Catholic Professional and Business Club featuring a presentation from Conventual Franciscan Brother George Cherrie, a former bank executive. Hear him tell his story of “spiritual transformation.” Today, he ministers as Director of Mission and Community Services at SF’s St. Mary’s Medical Center. Meeting includes light breakfast beginning at 7 a.m. in halls below St. Mary’s Cathedral, Gough and Geary St., SF $20 for non-members/$15 for members. Memberships available at $45 annually. Call (415) 614-5579 or visit the Web site at www.cpbc-sf.org.

March 20: 32nd annual United for Life Dinner at the Irish Cultural Center, 45th Ave. at Sloat Blvd., SF. Tickets $35 per person. Tables of 10 available.

Human Life Award will be presented to Msgr.

Edward Kavanagh, a Sacramento pastor whose talk will address Living for Life: 40 years in the Pro-Life Movement. Call (415) 567-2293.

March 20: Dinner and raffle benefiting Palestinians in need at St. John of God Church, 5th St. at Irving, SF beginning with no-host social at 5:30 p.m. and dinner featuring Arab menu at 6: 30 p.m. Proceeds will be used to feed families in the Ramallah region. Tickets $25 adults/$10 children.

Call Martha Ayoub at (415) 664-2015.

March 22: Evening of Recollection with Franciscan Father Dan Lackie, chaplain to the St. Anthony Foundation, at Star of the Sea Parish, Geary Blvd. at 8th Ave., S. Begins with Mass at 6 p.m. followed by dinner and exhortation with theme of The World Renewed in school auditorium. $14 fee includes dinner. Sponsored by San Francisco Council of Catholic Women. Call Kathy ParishReese at (650) 756-8858.

March 23: Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur offer Catholic Scholar Series in Ralston Hall 1520 Ralston Ave. on their Notre Dame de Namur University campus in Belmont. Today, hear Sulpician Father Richard Gula. Call (650) 593-2045, ext. 350.

Sundays: Concerts at 4 p. m. at National Shrine of St. Francis of Assisi, Vallejo and Columbus, SF. Call (415) 983-0405 or www.shrinesf.org. Open to the public. Admission free.

Sundays: Concerts at St. Mary Cathedral at 3:30 p.m. Gough and Geary Blvd., SF. Call (415) 567-2020 ext. 213. Concerts are open to the public. March 14: Daniel Zaretsky, organist. Admission free.

March 12, 2004 March 19-21: A Retreat with Therese of Liseiux led by Father Tom Madden, former director of Vallombrosa. Come and explore the spirituality of this popular saint and Doctor of the Church.

Datebook

Single, Divorced, Separated

“We are the repository for the history of the Archdiocese,” said Deacon Jeffrey Burns, Ph.D., archivist.

Parishioners and others on information quests are invited to use the Archives as a resource, Deacon Burns said.

Located at St. Patrick’s Seminary, 320 Middlefield Rd. Menlo Park, the Archives are open Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Appointments are recommended and available by calling (650) 328-6502.

Food & Fun March 13: Shamrock Shenanigans, a lunch and fashion show benefiting Scholarship Fund of Catholic Professional Women’s Club. “Lots of raffle prizes,” said Joan Higgins, a member of the organization. Takes place at United Irish Cultural Center, 45th Ave. at Sloat Blvd. in SF, beginning with nohost social and silent auction at 11:30 a.m. and lunch at 12: 30 p.m. Fashions from Shaheen’s of Lakeside Village. Tickets $35 per person. Call Noel Leonard at 584-2983.

March 13: 2nd Annual International Food Festival benefiting St. Dunstan Elementary School 1133 Broadway, Millbrae from 5 – 9 p.m. Foods from many lands including Greece, Italy, Ireland, Mexico, Asia plus delectable desserts,” said Gale Yip. Entertainment, children’s activities, silent auction and raffle. Tickets $25 adults, $20 seniors, and $12.50 children-5 – 14. Call (650) 692-9323 or (650) 583-4986.

March 20: Casablanca…As Time Goes By, annual auction benefiting Mercy High School, Burlingame. Set in the famed Kohl Mansion, the evening begins at 5:30 p.m. with Silent Auction and hors d’oeuvres, followed by dinner, live auction and dancing till midnight. Tickets $60 per person.

Contact the Mercy Development Department at (650) 762-1190.

March 20: Italian Catholic Federation presents renowned singer, Moreno Fruzzetti at San Mateo Performing Arts Center, 600 N. Delaware St. in San Mateo. Singer Simona and comedian, Florio Vivino, join him on the bill. Doors open 7:30 p.m.

Showtime 8:30 p.m. Tickets $42.50/$37.50. Call (650) 355-1274.

March 22: 6th anniversary and Mardi Gras Feast of National Shrine of St. Francis of Assisi, Vallejo at Columbus, SF featuring Cajun buffet and dancing to the music of the Zydeco Flames from 5 p.m. Tickets $50 per person. Enjoy organ recital of French classics at 4 p.m. Call (415) 9830405.

March 26, 27 and April 2, 3, 4: The ever-popular Hello Dolly! at Archbishop Riordan High School, 175 Phelan Ave. across from City College.

Curtain at 8 p.m. except April 4 matinee at 2 p.m.

Tickets $10 adults/$7 students and seniors except Alumni Night, March 27th when $25 tickets include champagne reception at 6 p.m. Call (415) 587-5866.

March 30: Catholic Networking Night at St. Dominic’s Church, 2390 Bush St. at Steiner, SF from 7 – 9 p.m. “Widen your networking circle at this spirit-filled evening,” said Connie D’Aura, a founder of the group. “Job seekers and those currently employed will pick up career tips from our guest speakers.” Admission is free. Those attending are asked to bring a snack to share.

Reservations are requested. Contact Connie at daura@ccwear.com or (415) 664-8108. Meeting also May 4.

March 31: Welcome Spring, the annual Luncheon/Fashion Show of the Good Shepherd Guild at Green Hills Country Club, Ludeman Lane,

Millbrae. Begins with social hour at 11:30 a.m. with luncheon at 12:30 p.m. Tickets $45. Contact Beverly Desmond at (415) 587-5374 by March 24th.

TV/Radio Mon – Fri., KEST 1450 AM, 7 p.m.: Catholic Radio Hour features rosary, music and commentary with Father Tom Daly.

Sunday 6 a.m., WB Channel 20/Cable 13 and KTSF Channel 26/Cable 8: TV Mass with Msgr.

Harry Schlitt presiding.

1st Sun, 5 a.m., CBS Channel 5: Mosaic, featuring conversations on current Catholic issues.

3rd Sun, 6:30 a.m., KRON Channel 4: For Heaven’s Sake, featuring conversations about Catholic spirituality.

Reunions March 20: The University of San Francisco honors Golden Alumni. “The class of ’54 will be officially welcomed on that day as they celebrate their 50th reunion,” said Annette Anton, director of alumni relations and a 1969 graduate of the school. Members of the classes of ’34, ’39, ’44, ’49 will also be recognized, she said. Takes place on USF campus from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. More information is available by calling the Alumni Office at (415) 422-6431 or (800) 449-4873.

April 25: St. John Ursuline High School, SF, all classes. Contact Gayle Vannucci at (650) 6924196.

May 22: Class of ’54 from the Mission District’s St. Peter’s Academy at Caesar’s Italian Restaurant, 2299 Powell St at Bay, SF, beginning at noon. Call (415) 269-9094.

Sept. 18: St. Paul High School, San Francisco, class of ’64, 1 p.m. at the Terrace Room of El Rancho Motel, Millbrae. Contact classmate, Liz Hannan, at lizhannan3@yahoo.com.

Our Lady of Mercy Parish celebrates its 50th anniversary in May. “We are looking for original members who may want to join in the celebration or who have pictures and memories they could share,” said Father William Brown, pastor. Among the traditions honored during the year are the contributions of the Dominican Sisters of San Rafael at the parish school and the Sisters of the Holy Family to the parish Religious Education program. Contact Barbara Cantwell at (650) 755-2727.

Retreats/Days of Recollection —— VALLOMBROSA CENTER —— 250 Oak Grove Ave., Menlo Park. For fees, times and details about these and other offerings call (650) 325-5614. Presentation Sister Rosina Conrotto, Program Director.

Separated and Divorced support groups meet 3rd Sat. at 6:30 p.m. at St. Mary’s Cathedral, call Pat at (415) 492-3331; and 1st and 3rd Wed. at 7:30 p.m. at St. Stephen Parish Center, SF, call Gail at (650) 591-8452.

Catholic Adult Singles Assoc. of Marin meets for support and activities. Call Bob at (415) 8970639 for information.

Consolation Ministry Groups meet at the following parishes. Please call numbers shown for more information.

St. Catherine of Siena, Burlingame. Call Elaine Yastishock at (650) 344-6884; Our Lady of Angels, Burlingame. Call Louise Nelson at (650) 343-8457 or Barbara Arena at (650) 3443579. Our Lady of Mt. Carmel, Redwood City.

Call (650) 366-3802; Good Shepherd, Pacifica.

Call Sister Carol Fleitz at (650) 355-2593; St. Robert, San Bruno. Call (650) 589-2800.

Immaculate Heart of Mary, Belmont. Call Ann Ponty at (650) 598-0658 or Mary Wagner at (650) 591-3850. St. Isabella, San Rafael. Call Pat Sack at (415) 472-5732. Our Lady of Loretto, Novato. Call Sister Jeanette at (415) 897-2171.

St. Gabriel, SF. Call Barbara Elordi at (415) 5647882. St. Finn Barr, SF in English and Spanish.

Call Carmen Solis at (415) 584-0823; St. Cecilia, SF. Call Peggy Abdo at (415) 564-7882 ext. 3; Epiphany, SF in Spanish. Call Kathryn Keenan at (415) 564-7882.

Ministry for parents who have lost a child is available from Our Lady of Angels Parish, Burlingame. Call Ina Potter at (650) 347-6971 or Barbara Arena at (650) 344-3579.

Young Widow/Widower group meets at St. Gregory, San Mateo. Call Barbara Elordi at (415) 564-7882.

Information about children’s and teen groups is available from Barbara Elordi at (415) 564-7882.

Returning Catholics Programs for Catholics interested in returning to the Church, have been established at the following parishes: St. Philip the Apostle, 725 Diamond St. at Elizabeth/24th, SF. Call the parish office at (415) 282-0141; St. Hilary, Tiburon, Mary Musalo, (415) 435-2775; St. Anselm, Ross, parish office at (415) 453-2342; St. Sebastian, Greenbrae, Jean Mariani at (415) 461-7060; Old St. Mary’s Cathedral, SF, Michael Adams at (415) 695-2707; St. Dominic, SF, Lee Gallery at (415) 221-1288; Holy Name of Jesus, SF, Dennis Rivera at (415) 664-8590; St. Bartholomew, San Mateo, Dan Stensen at (650) 344-5665; St. Catherine of Siena, Burlingame, Silvia Chiesa at (650) 685-8336, Elaine Yastishock at (650) 344-6884; Our Lady of Angels, Burlingame, Dorothy Heinrichs or Maria Cianci at (650) 347-7768; St. Dunstan, Millbrae, Dianne Johnston at (650) 697-0952; Our Lady of the Pillar, Half Moon Bay, Meghan at (650) 7264337; St. Peter, Pacifica, Chris Booker at (650) 738-1398; Our Lady of Mt. Carmel, Mill Valley, Rick Dullea or Diane Claire at (415) 388-4190; St. Mary Star of the Sea, Sausalito, Lloyd Dulbecco at (415) 331-7949.

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.

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March 12, 2004

Music TV “Patrick� charms Reviewed by Jayme George The role of the Irish in our nation’s history is a cause for celebration in St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, a tradition built in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries as Irish immigrants and their descendants fought for acceptance in American society. But the religious roots of this “feast day� and details of the life of St. Patrick tend to get lost in parades and green beer. This year, Faith & Values Media aim to change all that with a docu-drama on the life of St. Patrick, airing March 14 at 10:00 p.m. on the Hallmark Channel.

The hour-long program, filmed in Ireland, boasts big name star participation with Liam Neeson lending his mellifluous voice to the narration and Gabriel Byrne as the voice of Patrick.

Renowned Irish-American author Frank McCourt and several Irish scholars provide insightful commentary for the film that is interspersed with re-enactments of scenes from Patrick’s life.

Viewers may be surprised to learn that Patrick did

Catholic Radio Hour Week of March 15-19 Weeknights at 7 p.m. – KEST 1450 AM Radio Pray the Rosary – hosted by Fr. Tom Daly One half-hour of prayers, reflections and music Monday: Joyful Mysteries of the Rosary; Sunday Soundbite; Fact of Faith: St. Patrick’s Day; The God of the burning bush: Fr. Adelmo Dunghe, SJ. Tuesday: The Sorrowful Mysteries of the Rosary; St. Patrick docudrama on Hallmark: Ed Murray.

Wednesday: Glorious Mysteries of the Rosary; National Review Board/John Jay Reports: Frank Morock.; USCCB News Conference: Bishop Gregory, Archbishop Dolan, Archbishop Sheehan.

Thursday: Luminous Mysteries of the Rosary; Devotions; Three Minute Theologian.

Friday: Sorrowful Mysteries of the Rosary; Office of Film and Broadcasting: Films offering Lenten nourishment.

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Books RADIO Film not drive the snakes out of Ireland, in fact, he was not even Irish. As is always the case with history, the truth is much more interesting than the myths and legends that spring up around it. In the course of his life Patrick was a slave, a fugitive, a mystic, a priest, an outcast, and a national hero. His story is one of adventure and faith, the kind of faith that drives a person to do big, important things that defy reason and logic. This is exactly what Patrick did, and what’s even more amazing, he succeeded. “Patrick was an astounding figure whose accomplishments are universal,� said Edward Murray, president and chief executive officer of Faith & Values Media. “He is one of the few figures in recorded history who was directly responsible for the completely non-violent religious conversion of an entire nation. What makes Patrick so popular is that he accomplished this mass conversion while respecting the preChristian traditions of the Irish.�

Director and producer Pamela Mason Wagner, who also directed the Faith & Values Media production “Reluctant Saint: Francis of Assisi,� skillfully blends Patrick’s own words into the film. “What attracted me to the Patrick story was the power of his words,� said Wagner. “They feel as fresh and human and personal as if they were written yesterday. All Patrick had were his words,

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and he uses them as passionately and forcefully as if they were swords.�

In the end, the documentary succeeds in telling an old story the way it was meant to be told. Each contributor to the film attests that Patrick’s knowledge of the xenophobic Irish culture allowed for the delicate symbiosis he wove between the pagan religions and Christianity. Even today, the marriage between Celtic and Catholic traditions defines the Irish nation’s heritage, a union Frank McCourt calls “a loving embrace.� “Patrick� airs March 14 on the Hallmark Channel.

Check local listings for correct time and channel. Visit www.faithandvalues.com for more information regarding the program, or to order copies. $GYHUWLVHPHQW

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Catholic San Francisco

March 12, 2004

Supreme Court . . .

■ Continued from cover This is a crisis that could have been avoided, Mr. Dolejsi said. “The state didn’t have to violate our religious freedom,” he said. “There was a political solution available. It was worked out in 1998.”

The solution was based on the idea that “if the state determined that contraceptive coverage was an important issue of gender equity, it could step in and make sure that the rights of both sides are respected,” he said.

“The state itself could simply pay for the benefits.”

That compromise had been worked out during the administration of Governor Pete Wilson, but when Gray Davis became governor backers of the contraceptive mandate decided that they no longer had to compromise. “They wrote a very narrow and restrictive definition of a church – a definition designed to separate the

China . . .

■ Continued from cover March 9 that Bishop Wei Jingyi was stopped and detained by officials March 5.

The underground Catholic bishop has been arrested before by Chinese authorities and was imprisoned in several labor camps during the 1980s and ‘90s. He once served as secretary of a conference of Chinese bishops loyal to the Holy See. China imposes harsh restrictions on religion, forcing those who want to practice their faith openly to be part of the statesanctioned Chinese Catholic Patriotic Association with government-appointed bishops. Catholics who wish to remain loyal to the pope are forced underground. Yet, Hong Kong church officials say some 80 percent of the governmentappointed bishops have reconciled secretly with the Vatican.

Meanwhile, as China continues to clamp down on the Catholic Church, Cardinal Poupard and Father Giovanni Marchesi, a Jesuit theologian, presented a new feature film project highlighting the life and work of Father Ricci.

The Jesuit missionary worked in China from 1583 to 1610 and was considered a pioneer of cultural relations between China and the West. He was fully immersed in Chinese culture and wrote numerous books in Chinese as well as translating a catechism.

Father Marchesi said the missionary gained enormous respect and recognition in China because of “his attraction to culture, dialogue and friendship.”

Ned Dolejsi

“He was a Renaissance man who used reason, study, care and understanding” to find common ground with the people around him, including influential Mandarin scholars and the emperor, he said.

The priest said Father Ricci’s “new evangelizing method made him the first link for dialogue between East and West.”

Cardinal Poupard said Father Ricci’s focus on forming authentic friendships “is a message we need today in this age of competition and manipulation.”

“Through the fascinating images of film, we can show this model to a larger public,” he said.

The feature film is still in the planning stages. Italian film director Pasquale Squitieri said Italian and Chinese writers are still working on drawing up a film treatment to give to Chinese officials.

The project sponsors said they would like to film the feature in China despite the bureaucratic hoops yet to get through. But Squitieri said, “we are seeing some positive signs that we may get that permission.”

The Ricci Institute named for the 16th-century Jesuit missionary is the research arm of the Center for the Pacific Rim at the University of San Francisco. The Institute is home to the Jesuit Chinese Library, one of the largest private collections on China in the world, as well as other important collections on Western-Chinese cultural and religious interaction and history. Visit www.usfca.edu/ricci for more information on the Institute, its symposia, lectures, publications and collections.

Catholic Church from its ministry,” Mr. Dolejsi said.

“They presented us with a fait accompli, a redefinition of religious organizations.”

“What is most troubling is that the state is saying it doesn’t have to respect religious freedom – that’s the primary issue. In fact, in order not to respect religious freedom, the state now chooses to define who is and who is not a religious ministry,” he said.

“The second issue is that the state is saying it has the competence to determine whether an organization is or is not a religious organization. Finally, for the first time, a state is forcing a religious organization to pay for something it considers immoral. What if they mandate abortion coverage? What if, God forbid, assisted suicide becomes a mandate as it is in Oregon? Will we be forced to pay for it?”

State Senator Jackie Speier (D-San Mateo) sponsored the Women’s Contraception Equity Act in 1999.

The bill passed and went into effect in 2000.

Subsequently, Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Sacramento challenged the law on the grounds of religious freedom.

On March 1, the California Supreme Court affirmed lower court rulings in handing down a 6-1 decision that Catholic Charities of Sacramento, and by implication Catholic hospitals, schools and social service organizations, did not fit the narrow definition of a religious organization.

Catholic Charities of Sacramento was joined in this case by numerous religious organizations including Focus on the Family, Family Research Council, Lutheran ChurchMissouri Synod, U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops and the Southern Baptist Convention.

Currently there is a mix of situations among Catholic Charities organizations in the two archdioceses and 10 dioceses in California. Catholic Charities CYO of the Archdiocese of San Francisco and Catholic Charities of Santa Clara currently offer contraceptive coverage to their employees. In the East Bay, Catholic Charities for the Diocese of Oakland provided contraception coverage for 20 years, but stopped in 2001. In the Diocese of Santa Rosa, Catholic Chariries has never offered contraception coverage. The Archdiocese of Los Angeles and the Diocese of Monterey both currently do not offer contraception coverage.

Most of the Catholic Charities in California contacted by Catholic San Francisco said meetings were being held this week to discuss options in the wake of the California Supreme Court decision.

Jack Smith contributed to this story.

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Catholic San Francisco

March 12, 2004

Catholic San Francisco

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Holy Spirit, you who make me see everything and who shows me the way to reach my ideal.

You who give me the divine gift of forgive and forget the wrong that is done to me. I, in this short dialogue, want to thank you for everything and confirm once more that I never want to be separated from you no matter how great the material desires may be. I want to be with you and my loved ones in your perpetual glory. Amen. You may publish this as soon as your favor is granted.

D.G.

May the Sacred Heart of Jesus be adored, glorified, loved & preserved throughout the world now & forever. Sacred Heart of Jesus pray for us. St. Jude helper of the hopeless pray for us.

Say prayer 9 times a day for 9 days.

Thank You St. Jude.

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Most beautiful flower of Mt. Carmel Blessed Mother of the Son of God, assist me 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).

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Most beautiful flower of Mt. Carmel Blessed Mother of the Son of God, assist me 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.

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Prayer to St. Jude Oh, Holy St. Jude, Apostle and Martyr, great in virtue and rich in miracles, near Kinsman of Jesus Christ, faithful intercessor of all who invoke your special patronage in time of need, to you I have recourse from the depth of my heart and humbly beg to whom God has given such great power to come to my assistance. Help me in my present and urgent petition. In return I promise to make you be invoked.

Say three our Fathers, three Hail Marys and Glorias. St. Jude pray for us all who invoke your aid. Amen.

This Novena has never been known to fail. This Novena must be said 9 consecutive days. Thanks.

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Holy Spirit, you who make me see everything and who shows me the way to reach my ideal.

You who give me the divine gift of forgive and forget the wrong that is done to me. I, in this short dialogue, want to thank you for everything and confirm once more that I never want to be separated from you no matter how great the material desires may be. I want to be with you and my loved ones in your perpetual glory. Amen. You may publish this as soon as your favor is granted. B.M.B.

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19

Help wanted

Saturday, March 13, 2004 Mercy High School 3250 19th Avenue San Francisco, 94132 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM

Facilities Manager

*Please note that this is the correct date and time

This parish seeks a temporary employee who will be responsible for general maintenance of parish grounds and buildings.

This person, who will capably make repairs and oversee routine upkeep, will have an understanding of plumbing, carpentry, etc. 30 hour work week.

*Bring Résumés*

Contact Father Tony La Torre, St. Charles Church, 880 Tamarack Ave., San Carlos 94070 Tel: 650-591-7349

Campus parking closed.

Use nearby neighborhood parking.

For More Information: Please Call Sara Smith (415) 614-5668 or e-mail: smiths@sfarchdiocese.org

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Catholic San Francisco

March 12, 2004

Bishops and Food For The Poor Working together to serve Christ in the poor PAID ADVERTISEMENT

Since 1982, Food For The Poor has worked closely with parishes, missionaries, clergy and bishops to directly assist the poorest of the poor.

Be it emergency relief after a devastating earthquake in Nicaragua, providing housing for Jamaica’s poor, or feeding Haiti’s hungry, Food For The Poor supplies direct aid to their impoverished flocks. Join

“Over the years Food For The Poor has been very generous in assisting the poor of Grenada, Carriacou and Petit Martinique, through the Catholic Church.

We, the Church, are very grateful for this generosity… May the Incarnate Word, Christ Jesus, Son of the eternal Father, continue to inspire you in the great work of serving the poor of the world, including the Caribbean.”

Most Reverend Sydney A. Charles Bishop of St. George’s-in-Grenada (retired)

“Food For The Poor is bringing its assistance in the various areas… I am very grateful to this organization and encourage any religious or civic authority to support it.”

Most Reverend Guy Poulard Bishop of Jacmel, Haiti “I can only express my heartfelt thanks to Food For The Poor for sustaining the poor of Jamaica since the organization was founded in 1982. From providing food to the hungry, to building homes for the dispossessed, Food For The Poor has answered Christ’s call to serve the needy. May the Lord’s abundant blessings pour down upon you as you continue your Christ-centered mission to serve the poorest of the poor.”

Most Reverend Paul M. Boyle Bishop of Mandeville, Jamaica

Food For The Poor in helping the bishops of the Caribbean and Latin America provide for our poorest brothers and sisters in Christ. Walk with us as we strive to minister to the hungry, the homeless and the destitute, to live out the Gospel calling of Matthew 25:40: “As often as you did it to My least brothers and sisters, you did it to Me.”

“A certain dependable support for the poor has come through the services of Food For The Poor. It is deeply appreciated… and it is our deepest hope and our prayer that Food For The Poor will be able to continue this invaluable service, since it has helped to raise the standard of living for many needy families.”

Most Reverend Kelvin E. Felix Archbishop of Castries, St. Lucia

“It is quite impossible to find the words to express the appreciation for Food For The Poor, for the invaluable assistance given to the Diocese of Montego Bay… May the Lord continue to bless Food For The Poor and its donors as they reach out to bring love and support to the poorest of the poor.”

Most Reverend Charles H. Dufour Bishop of Montego Bay, Jamaica

“I wish to express my gratitude to the organization Food For The Poor and to the North American people in general for their generous help. As an economically weak nation, we can only offer our prayers and our expression of solidarity for your generous people.”

Most Reverend Pedro L. Vilchez Bishop of the Diocese of Jinotega, Nicaragua

“For more than 20 years, I have been working with Food For The Poor. I have received in different ways significant help for individuals, families, parishes or religious orders. May the Almighty keep motivating the generous donors and strengthen the courage of each and every person involved in Food For The Poor’s humanitarian and Christian action.”

Most Reverend Joseph Lafontant Auxiliary Bishop Archdiocese of Port-au-Prince, Haiti

Please join Food For The Poor in serving the least of our brothers and sisters in the Caribbean and Latin America.

Dept. 42780 • 550 SW 12th Ave. • Deerfield Beach, FL 33442 • (954) 427-2222, ext. 6703 • www.foodforthepoor.org