Cardinal criticizes abortion provisions in House health care reform bill
Catholic san Francisco Newspaper of the Archdiocese of San Francisco
(CNS)
By Nancy Frazier O’Brien
Screen shot of a new USCCB website, www.usccb.org/healthcare. The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) has launched a Web page promoting its support of “truly universal health policy with respect for human life and dignity.” The page, www.usccb.org/healthcare, includes letters from bishops to Congress, videos, facts and statistics, frequently asked questions, and links for contacting members of Congress.
WASHINGTON (CNS) – Cardinal Justin Rigali of Philadelphia, who heads the bishops’ Committee on Pro-Life Activities, said the health reform bill approved by the House Energy and Commerce Committee prior to the Congressional recess would make a “radical change” in U.S. abortion policy by making abortion a mandated benefit in the public health insurance plan that would compete with private insurers and by allowing the expanded use of federal funds to pay for abortions. He said the committee “created a legal fiction, a paper separation between federal funding and abortion” through which those in the public plan and in private insurance plans that cover abortion would pay an outof-pocket premium of at least $1 a month to cover abortions beyond those eligible for federal funds under the Hyde amendment. The Hyde amendment, enacted into law in various forms since 1976, prohibits federal funding of abortions except in cases of rape, incest and danger to the mother’s life. Cardinal Rigali said the separation of funds in the reform bill “is an illusion” because “funds paid into these plans are fungible, and federal taxpayer funds will subsidize the operating budget and provider networks that expand access to abortion.” In addition, he said, “those constrained by economic necessity or other factors to participate in a public option will be forced by the federal government to pay directly and specifically for abortion coverage ... even if they find abortion morally abhorrent.” The cardinal had praise, however, for amendments to the bill that stipulate that health reform legislation will not pre-empt certain state laws regulating abortion and will not affect existing federal conscience protections on abortion. HEALTH REFORM BILL, page 11
Widely respected priest, Monsignor Bruce Dreier, dies at age 60 Less than two months into the “Year for Priests” declared by Pope Benedict XVI, one of the most respected and well-liked priests of the Archdiocese of San Francisco, Monsignor Bruce Dreier, lost an eight-month battle with cancer and died Aug. 10 at the relatively young age of 60 at St. Mary’s Medical Center in San Francisco. Archbishop George H. Niederauer was principal celebrant at a funeral Mass celebrated Aug. 18 at St. Mary’s Cathedral in San Francisco for Monsignor Dreier, who was pastor of St. Robert Parish in San Bruno from 2004 until his death. Concelebrants at the Mass included retired San Francisco Archbishop John R. Quinn, retired Auxiliary Bishop Ignatius Wang, Auxiliary Bishop William Justice, Salt Lake City Bishop John C. Wester, Santa Rosa Bishop Daniel Walsh and Reno Bishop Randolph Calvo, who also presided at a vigil service at St. Robert’s August 17; and more than 100 priests. Monsignor Robert McElroy, pastor of St. Gregory Parish in San Mateo, was homilist. A graduate of St. Anselm elementary and Marin Catholic High School, Monsignor Dreier earned a graduate degree in Counseling from the University of
McElroy became friends when both served as young San Francisco. He was ordained for the Archdiocese men at St. Elizabeth parish in 1979. of San Francisco in 1978, and was named a Prelate of “Bruce was the associate pasHonor with the title of Monsignor tor and I was a transitional deaby Pope John Paul II in 2000. He con on my way to ordination and served at parishes including St. we became very close friends,” Elizabeth and St. Cecilia in San Msgr. McElroy said, beginning Francisco before his appointto laugh as he added, “We did ment as pastor of Church of the an awful lot of stuff together. Epiphany in 1992. He had a great sense of humor He also was a former chapand we played a lot of jokes on lain to the San Francisco Fire one another” Department, and Sacred Heart “Bruce was big-hearted and and Cathedral high schools very much in the trenches as well as former director of working with the parishioners,” Vocations for the Archdiocese Monsignor McElroy recalled. of San Francisco, and secretary, “He had a lot of ideas and would Office of Priestly Personnel and be on the ground level trying to Formation. implement all of them. He had a In the days leading up to the great deal of energy and worked funeral Mass earlier this week, very hard. He emotionally Catholic San Francisco spoke entered into people’s lives. He with people who knew and Monsignor Bruce Dreier wasn’t afraid to cry with people, worked with the late priest. celebrate joyfully with people, to be with them in very While they knew each other at St. Patrick’s Seminary, Monsignor Dreier and Monsignor Robert MONSIGNOR DREIER DIES AT AGE 60, page 10
INSIDE THIS WEEK’S EDITION Year for Priests . . . . . . . . . . . 3 News in brief. . . . . . . . . . . 4-5 On catholic-sf.org . . . . . . . . . 6 Interfaith efforts . . . . . . . . . . 7 Commentary and letters . 12-13
Back to school, new principals ~ Pages 3, 8 ~ August 21, 2009
Senior Living stories and columns ~ Pages S1-S8 ~
Cardinal Levada at Knight’s convention ~ Page 9 ~
ONE DOLLAR
Scripture and reflections . 14-15 Classified ads . . . . . . . . . . . 19
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August 21, 2009
On The
St. James Elementary School celebrated its 85th year with a Mass of Thanksgiving and reception May 30. St. James pastor, Father Jerry Foley, presided. Father Francis K. Murray a 1941 graduate of St. James School was in attendance. “About 250 Alums, past teachers, and family members took part,” said Marie Driscoll, school development director. Also on hand were alumni committee members, Carol Britschgi ‘65, Suzanne Solon Koonce ‘65, and Karen and Dr. Tom Leach ‘61.
Where You Live By Tom Burke Congrats and thank you to Msgr. Alvan Heuring, ordained 65 years ago – Dec. 17, 1944 – for the Archdiocese of Dubuque. The Iowa native, now the oldest and longest serving priest in his home see, retired to San Mateo, where he lives with his sisters, Alberta and Joan, in 1985. “My entire family had moved here and I was the last to arrive,” he said. Now 93, wherever he goes “I’m usually the oldest guy there,” he noted with a laugh. Msgr. Huering said he has been very happy as a priest. “I wouldn’t change it for anything else,” he said. “Every morning I’m happy to have another day to serve the Lord.” Msgr. Huering assists with Masses at St. Matthew Parish in San Mateo and St. Mark’s in Belmont…. Happy 60 tears married July 31 to Bessie and Rudy Brito who took their vows at San Francisco’s Our Lady of Lourdes Church and have been parishioners of South San Francisco’s Mater Dolorosa Parish for 48 years. They spent the day with family including daughters Rose, Barbara and Linda - who all wed at Mater Dolorosa – eight grandchildren and nine great grandchildren. Bessie said she is an avid reader of Catholic San Francisco – thank you very much – and often a member of the assembly for the TV Mass with Msgr. Harry Schlitt .Now flying with eagles, so to speak, are Michael Sebastinelli and Eric-Antonio Charles who were recently honored with scouting’s highest rank of Eagle Scout by Troop 333, San Francisco at a Court of Honor held on June 27 at St. Brigid Elementary School. Michael and Eric-Antonio are alums of St. Brigid and recent grads of St. Ignatius College Prep. Michael is off to college this fall at Gonzaga University, and Eric-Antonio will
be attending UC Santa Cruz. Proud parents are Pat and John Sebastinelli along with sister Kristen, and Eva Charles…. Congrats to class of ’51 from Our Lady of Perpetual Help Elementary School who had so much fun at a recent reunion, they decided to make the renewing of ties an annual event, said classmate, Anne Nolan Dowd. Joining Anne for the good time were Kenneth Gottwald, Gil Fontana, Maureen Powers Malmburg, Roger Gordon, Shiela Sullivan Castagnetto, Mirella Paradela Eiros, Diane Linhares Wood, Diane Laun Whereat, Janet Cirimele Bosma, Tom Ryan, Rich Gonzales, John Murphy, Jim Larkin, and Larry Kennedy…. Congrats to Michelle Escobar a member of the faculty at San Francisco’s Megan Furth Catholic Academy who has been recognized with an Herbst Award for Teaching Excellence. Michelle received the honor for her excellence in teaching language arts to fifth- through eighth-graders, fellow faculty member Chris Unruh said in a note to this column. Michelle accepted the award at an assembly of everyone at the school in May …. Thanks to Father Paul Arnoult, pastor, St. Patrick Parish in
Board members and leadership of St. Stephen Elementary School are ready to go for the new school year! “The new and repeating board members are thrilled to be a part of the action and look forward to a great year,” said Sandy Onken, now handling PR for St. Stephen Women’s Guild. From left: Fionnuala McElligott, out-going president; Margaret O’Driscoll; Sharon McCarthy-Allen, principal; Suzi Desmond, president; and Celine O’Driscoll.
Eagle Scouts Michael Sebastinelli and Eric-Antonio Charles.
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Larkspur, for letting us know of the good work of seventh grade students at the parish school. With “classroom donations and a terrific bake sale,” the youngsters raised more than $1,600 for the Talas Oblask School for Children with Disabilities in Kyrgyztan. The effort was named the Tractor Project as the proceeds went to help the school in cultivating its eight acres of land and becoming self-sufficient through selling soybean crops. Soybeans are an excellent source of protein for the population with many suffering from anemia, said seventh grade teacher, Suzanne Hendriks. The idea for the fundraiser came from former St. Pat’s student and Peace Corps member John Cervetto. “The students at St. Pat’s learned about a very different part of the world and were happy to help with this worthwhile project,” Suzanne noted…This is an empty space without you. Send items via e-mail to burket@sfarchdiocese.org and by ground to “Street,” One Peter Yorke Way, San Francisco 94109. Electronic photos should be jpegs at 300 dpi. No zip files, please. Hard copy photos are also welcome sent to the Peter Yorke Way address. I can be reached at (415) 614-5634.
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Researchers develop heart-repair method with adult stem cells By John Thavis VATICAN CITY (CNS) – Italian researchers have developed a method to repair a damaged heart using adult stem cells, and said it confirmed that the adult cells were more therapeutically useful than embryonic stem cells. “The adult stem cell is already prepared to differentiate in the tissue we want to repair. And it is certainly more productive, less wasteful and less dangerous – beyond the ethical aspects – to work with adult stem cells instead of embryonic stem cells,” said Settimio Grimaldi, an expert at the Institute of Neurobiology and Molecular Medicine in Rome, which carried out the research. Grimaldi spoke Aug. 15 to Vatican Radio, which hailed the published results as
an important advance in stem-cell therapy. The Italian team developed a new method of isolating cardiac stem cells, cultivating them and injecting them in such a way that they replace damaged tissue; after testing on animals, the researchers hope to apply the method on humans in about three years. Grimaldi said the method should be able to help people who have suffered heart attacks lead a fairly normal life, including work and sports activities. “The frontier of regenerative medicine is opening, and this in our opinion is the medicine of the future,” Grimaldi said. Church experts have long argued that the use of adult stem cells is not only ethically acceptable but appears to be more promising on a practical level, and Grimaldi agreed.
(PHOTO BY RICK DELVECCHIO/CATHOLIC SAN FRANCISCO)
Back to school
Rosa Cortez Ramirez, left, enrolls her 5-year-old son, Christian Ramirez, in kindergarten at St. Peter School in San Francisco. Principal Victoria Butler is at the right and Assistant Principal Mercy Sister Marian Rose power is at the center. Butler and her staff generate $350,000 a year in tuition, most of it from private benefactors. All 422 students at the school receive financial aid even though tuition is a relatively low $3,500 a year.
‘Bruce, feed my lambs’ At the funeral Mass for Monsignor Bruce Dreier Aug. 18 at the Cathedral of St. Mary of the Assumption, his friend and fellow priest Monsignor Robert McElroy delivered the following homily. As I have talked during these past weeks with Monsignor Dreier’s brothers and sister, Gordon, Joan and Paul, and with so many of his friends, I have begun to reflect on this man whom I have admired and loved as my best friend for the past 30 years and on what I might say in his funeral homily. And in these reflections the figure of Peter in the Gospels has constantly come into my mind – Peter who is filled with enthusiasm, who never goes for half measures; Peter who has an immense generosity of heart and loves quickly and expansively; Peter who is quick to speak his mind, fearlessly and vocally, sometimes right and sometimes having to reconsider; Peter who works tirelessly for the Lord, is always hands on, and rushes in when need arises; the Peter who leaps out of the boat in the storm to meet the Lord, who raises his sword in defense of Jesus and after refusing to have his feet washed by Jesus, then says, wash not just my feet but my whole body. Bruce, in his life, his faith and his priesthood, was like Peter. He lived in the conviction that pastoral service demanded profound and committed love for God’s flock that was willing to enter deeply and emotionally into the dreams and sufferings, the joys and the
anguish of those whom he served. He worked tirelessly, not only planning and leading from above, but also laboring alongside his people in every parish undertaking. Bruce was handson, like the Peter who took charge of the boat when the catch was slim; whether he had a plan or not Bruce looked like he did and he inspired confidence and exuded enthusiasm. Bruce was constantly filled with new ideas, novel technologies, creative projects and alternative approaches to making the Gospel alive among the people he served. Most of all, Bruce, like Peter, had an immense heart that led him to empathize, sacrifice, speak out on behalf of, cry with and find joy in the widely varying groups of people to whom the call of God bonded him. If St. Peter is truly the greeter at the heavenly gates, then Bruce has surely encountered a kindred spirit as he comes to meet the Lord. For this reason, I chose the Gospel of John that contains the chapter with the great pastoral mandate that Jesus gives to Peter. In the commissioning of Peter to feed Christ’s lambs and feed his sheep, I believe we can find the architecture, theme and progression of the man and the priesthood that we celebrate today. In May of 1978, Jesus spoke to the newly ordained Bruce Dreier and asked him: “Bruce do you love me?” Bruce responded “Yes Lord, you know that I love you.” and Jesus IN HIS LIFE, HIS FAITH, page 11
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NEWS
August 21, 2009
in brief (CNS PHOTO/STEVEN SENNE, POOL VIA REUTERS)
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First Latina, sixth Catholic WASHINGTON – When she is formally invested as a Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court Sept. 8, Sonia Sotomayor will take her place as the first Hispanic member of the high court. In a ceremony at the court building Aug 8, Chief Justice John Roberts administered the oath of office while the newest justice’s mother, Celina, held the Bible on which her daughter placed her hand. It was the first time the oath had been administered on live television. She joins the high court on the afternoon before the court convenes to hear a campaign finance case in an unusual session being held prior to the beginning of the court term Oct. 3. Sotomayor, 55, was confirmed by the Senate Aug. 6 by a 68-31 vote. She is the sixth Catholic on the nine-member court, the most ever at one time. A New York native and daughter of Puerto Ricans who struggled to be sure their two children were well-educated, Sotomayor is President Barack Obama’s first Supreme Court nominee. She will take the place of Justice David Souter, who retired at the end of the term in June.
Religious order vocations WASHINGTON – U.S. Catholic religious communities are attracting more ethnically and culturally diverse members now than in previous generations, according to an in-depth survey released Aug. 11. The “Study of Recent Vocations to Religious Life” also showed that most U.S. religious communities report diminishing numbers with aging populations, but at the same time indicated those who are choosing religious life today are passionate about it and some orders are cultivating vocations from the millennial generation. With less than 10 percent of women religious and 25 percent of men religious under the age of 60, it’s imperative that U.S. religious communities figure out effective methods of recruitment, said Mercy Sister Mary Bendyna, executive director of the Center for Applied Research in the Apostolate and principal author of the study. The study – conducted by CARA, a Georgetown University-based research center, on behalf of the National Religious Vocation Conference, based in Chicago – surveyed 4,000 men and women who are in formation or newly vowed members
‘Ardent faith, generous service’ BARNSTABLE, Mass. – Special Olympics founder Eunice Kennedy Shriver, who died Aug. 11, was “a woman of ardent faith and generous public service” in her work with the developmentally and physically disabled, said Archbishop Pietro Sambi, apostolic nuncio to the United States. In a letter to Shriver’s family released to the press and posted on the Special Olympics Web site, the archbishop conveyed the condolences of Pope Benedict XVI. He said the pope “unites himself spiritually with each of you at this difficult time, holding close to his heart Eunice as she is called home to eternal life and trusting in the words of sacred Scripture: ‘What will separate us from the love of Christ?’” News reports said the 88-year-old Shriver, sister of the late President John F. Kennedy, died in a hospital in Barnstable, on Cape Cod. At her side were her husband, R. Sargent Shriver, the couple’s five children and their spouses, and the Shrivers’ 19 grandchildren. She had been in failing health after suffering a couple of strokes in recent years and was hospitalized several days before her death.
Jerusalem evictions cited WASHINGTON – U.S. Catholic leaders have joined leaders of other faiths in expressing concern about the early August evictions of Palestinians from East Jerusalem. In a letter to Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton, the leaders sought the immediate reversal of the evictions and the restoration of houses to former residents. A U.S. response must go beyond official protests, they wrote in the Aug. 7 letter,
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Special Olympian Loretta Claiborne touches the casket of Eunice Kennedy Shriver at her funeral Mass at St. Francis Xavier Church in Hyannis, Mass., Aug. 14.
released by Churches for Middle East Peace, a coalition of 23 Catholic, Protestant and Orthodox national church bodies and organizations. Club-wielding Israeli riot police evicted two Palestinian families – more than 50 people – from their homes in the Arab neighborhood of Sheikh Jarrah, according to The Associated Press. Police later allowed Jewish settlers to move into the homes where the families had lived for more than 50 years. In their letter, the U.S. religious leaders said the evictions raised significant international political issues because it occurred close to the 1949 armistice line or Green Line, which separates Israel and the Palestinian territories.
Mexican advocates skeptical GUADALAJARA, Mexico – Catholic advocates working with undocumented Mexican migrants heading toward the United States questioned whether President Barack Obama was serious about his Aug. 10 pledge to seek reform of U.S. immigration policies. Speaking after the Aug. 9-10 meeting of Obama, Mexican President Felipe Calderon and Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper in Guadalajara, the advocates urged the U.S. leader to spend some of his “political capital” on immigration issues in the same way he is addressing the economy and health care reform. At the summit’s conclusion Obama said immigration reform remains a priority of his administration and that a draft bill probably would be introduced by the end of this year. He cautioned, however, that “I’ve got a lot on my plate,” and said immigration reform would be addressed after the current health care debate NEWS IN BRIEF, page 5
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News in brief . . . ■ Continued from page 4 concludes. “For Obama, it’s a promise, not a project,” said Father Pedro Pantoja, director of the Saltillo Diocese’s migrant shelter in northern Mexico, reacting to Obama’s comments. The priest acknowledged that economic conditions in the U.S. remained unfavorable for addressing immigration reform.
First Catholic president of South Korea, dies at 85 SEOUL, South Korea – South Korean religious leaders have expressed sorrow over the death of Kim Dae-jung, the country’s first Catholic president. Kim was hospitalized in Seoul in July with pneumonia and died Aug. 18. He was 85. Cardinal Nicholas Cheong Jin-suk of Seoul issued a condolence message soon after Kim’s death was announced, reported the Asian church news agency UCA News. The cardinal said Kim, the 2000 Nobel Peace Prize recipient Kim Dae-jung for his efforts at helping North Korea, had dedicated his life to promoting human rights and the democratization of South Korea and had worked for peace on the Korean peninsula. Cardinal Cheong said Kim forgave his political foes despite the persecutions he suffered, including threats to his life. The cardinal also praised Kim’s faith, quoting him as saying, “With the knowledge that Jesus was crucified for humanity, I could overcome all hardships and trials.” The Rev. Kwon Oh-sung, secretary of the National Council of Churches in Korea, said the former president had established human rights and peace as basic values in society. Rev. Kwon said he hopes South Koreans will build on Kim’s achievements.
Allied governments’ inaction VATICAN CITY – In a lengthy article, the Vatican newspaper said the U.S. and British governments had detailed information about the Nazi plan to exterminate European Jews during World War II, but failed to act for many months and even suppressed reports about the extent of the Holocaust. The newspaper, L’Osservatore Romano, contrasted Allied inaction with the quiet efforts undertaken by Pope Pius XII to save as
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August 21, 2009 many Jews as possible through clandestine assistance. The article, published Aug. 13, reviewed historical information in support of an argument frequently made by Vatican experts: While critics have focused on Pope Pius’ supposed “silence” on the Holocaust, little attention has been given to documented evidence that the U.S. and British governments ignored or minimized reports of extermination plans. The article quotes heavily from the diary of Henry Morgenthau Jr., U.S. secretary of the treasury during the war, who said that as early as August 1942 administration officials “knew that the Nazis were planning to exterminate all the Jews of Europe.”
Deacons’ ministry needed VATICAN CITY – The Catholic Church increasingly relies on the ministry of permanent deacons, who must be experts in preaching the word of God and in outreach to the poor, said the prefect of the Congregation for Clergy. As with any ministry, the impact of a permanent deacon’s work depends on his own holiness, his love for Scriptures and his daily concern for the poor, said Cardinal Claudio Hummes in a letter marking the feast of St. Lawrence Aug. 10. “From a good disciple a good missionary is born,” the cardinal said in his letter to the church’s 36,000 permanent deacons, about 16,500 of whom minister in the United States and Canada. Preaching the Gospel, he said, “requires of ordained ministers a constant struggle to study it and carry it out, at the same time as one proclaims it to others.” A deacon needs to base his preaching on his private meditation and prayerful reading of the Bible as well as on theological education in Scripture studies, he said. Cardinal Hummes said that from the time of the earliest Christian communities deacons were called to spearhead the church’s ministry to the poor, and the poor still must be the deacon’s priority today.
Iraq’s Christian community VATICAN CITY – A leading Vatican official called for greater protection of Iraq’s beleaguered Christian minority, saying the disappearance of Christianity from the country would be an enormous religious and cultural loss for everyone. Archbishop Fernando Filoni, who served as the Vatican’s nuncio to Iraq from 2001 to 2006, said it was important that Iraqi Christians stem the widespread emigration of their community. That can only happen if they are given a sound basis for hope in the future, he said. “The authorities must do everything they can so that Christians are a respected and integral part of the life of the country, even if they are a minority,” Archbishop Filoni said in an interview Aug. 11 with the Vatican newspaper, L’Osservatore Romano. The Iraqi government meets regularly with church leaders and in theory is committed to protecting Christians, but “this also has to be translated into concrete
The shrine of Our Lady of Madhu in the Diocese of Mannar, Sri Lanka, was battered during two decades of civil war. With the war now over, about 500,000 pilgrims visited the islands’ most popular Catholic shrine for the Marian feast Aug. 15.
facts,” he said. The archbishop pointed to the recent restitution of three church-run schools as an important step in the right direction. The schools, two in Baghdad and one in Kirkuk, will be run by Chaldean Catholic nuns, who managed them before they were nationalized under Saddam Hussein
Taiwanese Catholics help victims with food, shelter WASHINGTON – Catholic bishops in Taiwan asked their people to pray for the victims of Typhoon Morakot, which dumped more than 80 inches of rain on the island the second weekend in August. Catholics and others in disaster-stricken areas were helping victims with food and shelter, and the Chinese Regional Bishops’ Conference in Taiwan planned further action, Father Otfriend Chan, secretary-general of the conference, wrote in an e-mail to Catholic News Service. Father Chan said Caritas and the Taiwan Catholic Mission Foundation, two local Catholic organizations, were collecting donations. He said the bishops made an official appeal in the local Catholic newspaper, asking people to pray for the victims and their families by holding vigils or attending Mass. Morakot left 21 people dead in the Philippines, then moved on to Taiwan and eastern China. A mudslide in a Taiwanese mountain village may have buried up to 600 people, according to The Associated Press. Typhoon Etau hit western Japan Aug. 10, killing at least 12 people. The two storms displaced nearly 9 million people, and hundreds were feared dead, according to news reports.
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St. Mary’s Medical Center Foundation Presents Presents the the 30th 30th Annual Annual
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Monday, August 31, 2009 All proceeds will benefit the Sr. Mary Philippa Health Clinic at St. Mary’s Medical Center – the largest privately supported, comprehensive clinic serving the needy in San Francisco. For reservations and information, please call the Foundation at (415) 750-5790 or visit www.stmarysmedicalcenter.org/foundation.
Catholic San Francisco
August 21, 2009
Women religious group leaders question ‘apostolic visitation’
WEB ONLY
By Dennis Sadowski
On catholic-sf.org
New multimedia highlight Catholic San Francisco Online Catholic San Francisco Online’s Multimedia pages – www.catholic-sf.org/ multimedia – feature several new, short offerings. The first three are audio slideshows that can be accessed from the home page, www.catholic-sf.org. The thirst for God is palpable Mercy Sister Mary Ann Scofield reflects on her profession on the occasion of her 60th jubilee. Catholic San Francisco interviewed her after she and 22 other Mercy sisters celebrating jubilees were honored at a liturgy at Mercy Center Aug. 9. In the background, Johna Peterson sings “Catherine’s Song,” the Communion Thanksgiving music for the liturgy.
What makes a successful volunteer? St. Joseph of Carondelet Sister Katie O’Shea, chaplain for the St. Vincent de Paul Society’s Ozanam Center detox outreach in San Francisco, reflects on the question during an interview at the center. She and Jesuit Father Frank Buckley are working together on developing a Wellness Center within Ozanam, which has long served as a social services refuge of last resort.
The providence of God How does a Catholic elementary school that serves the most economically fragile immigrant families stay financially afloat? One key is the support of generous patrons who like what see they in Catholic education and step up to provide tuition aid. Victoria Butler, the principal at St. Peter School in San Francisco, reflects on the relationship.
WASHINGTON (CNS) – Leaders representing 59,000 women religious are questioning what they say is a lack of full disclosure about what is motivating the Vatican’s apostolic visitation that will study the contemporary practices of U.S. women’s religious orders. In an Aug. 17 press statement, the Leadership Conference of Women Religious also said the leaders “object to the fact that their orders will not be permitted to see the investigative reports about them” when they are submitted in 2011 to the Vatican’s Congregation for Institutes of Consecrated Life and Societies of Apostolic Life and its prefect, Cardinal Franc Rode. In addition, the women religious expressed concern about secrecy they say is surrounding the funding of the study, said Sister Annmarie Sanders, director of communications for LCWR. No details on funding the study have been released by the office of the Apostolic Visitation of Institutes of Women Religious in the United States. “Part of the conversation revolved around the fact that at a time when congregations of religious women are financially strapped they are concerned about being asked to pay for an investigation they did not ask for,” Sister Annmarie said. The concerns emerged Aug. 14 as 800 members of the LCWR concluded a four-day meeting in New Orleans. Sister Annmarie, a member of the Sisters, Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, declined to be more specific about what the leaders discussed privately regarding the visitation. “We’re waiting to see how it (the visitation) plays out,” Sister Annmarie told Catholic News Service Aug. 17. “We’re in the middle of it now. We don’t know what
the next steps are going to be (like). “They don’t want to judge ahead of time. But certainly there’s some apprehension right now,” she said. The Vatican-ordered visitation is looking at the broad realm of religious life of 341 U.S. congregations of women religious. A working document – known as an “instrumentum laboris” – outlining the areas the visitation will cover was sent to superiors general in early August. Members of the orders were being asked to reflect on the working document. It serves as a prelude to a separate questionnaire that will be sent to the superiors Sept. 1, marking the start of the study’s second phase. The questionnaire will cover each order’s life and operation, identity, governance, vocation promotion, admission requirements and formation policies, spiritual life and common life, mission and ministry, and finances. The questionnaires are due Nov. 1 at the apostolic visitation office in Hamden, Conn. Once the questionnaires are analyzed, individual congregations will be selected for a visit by a visitation team starting in January. Not all religious congregations will be visited. The outgoing LCWR president, Sister J. Lora Dambroski, a member of the Sisters of St. Francis of the Providence of God, urged the leaders gathered in New Orleans to move forward together as the study evolves. Citing passages from the Gospel of Luke, Sister Lora urged the women to continue their efforts to build a new world despite its increasing chaos and disorder. She called for the women to understand that what they may have held on to tightly in the past should be reassessed so that new patterns of life and new practices can emerge while they adhere to core beliefs. “Simply put, we are no longer as we once were. We can’t be,” she said.
The power of a mother
One nation judged by God In this audio segment, Jesuit Father George Schultze says Catholics in the workplace must “respond to what is right in the world” and place economic issues in a moral context. The Sept. 4 Labor Day special issue of Catholic San Francisco will feature excerpts from Assistant Editor Rick DelVecchio’s interview with Father Schultze, who is an adjunct faculty member at St. Patrick’s Seminary and University. The audio slideshows also can be viewed and shared at Catholic San Francisco’s YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/catholicsanfrancisco. Comments are welcome.
Health Care Reform Action
6
Bishop William Murphy, Chairman of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, states: “Health care is a fundamental issue of human life and dignity.” The U.S. Bishops recommend health care reform that is affordable and accessible for all, with a special concern for the poor.
Forty-seven million people in our country have no health insurance, and many who do CANNOT AFFORD THE HEALTHCARE THEY HAVE Do you know someone who… •
has lost their health insurance coverage? •
•
• •
has been denied insurance?
has been unable to afford insurance premiums? Pays unreasonable deductibles?
Help her give them a better life. It’s what she wants. It’s what they need. It’s what you can do together.
Has filed for bankruptcy because of medical bills?
ARE YOU FRUSTRATED WITH OUR COUNTRY’S BROKEN HEALTHCARE SYSTEM? DO YOU WANT TO DO SOMETHING ABOUT IT? Please join us, the Social Responsibility Committee, and the San Francisco Organizing Project, as we gather as a church to take action for Healthcare reform. We have invited Senator Feinstein, Speaker Pelosi, and Representative Jackie Speier to hear our concerns and promise their votes for a health care bill that’s affordable for all families!
Sponsor a child through Christian Foundation for Children and Aging www.cfcausa.org
Contact Carol Haunert at (415) 585-4548 to tell your health care stories, and to let her know you’ll be attending the Action. WE NEED TO FILL THE CAFETERIA TO SHOW OUR REPRESENTATIVES OUR SUPPORT FOR HEALTH CARE REFORM THAT’S AFFORDABLE FOR FAMILIES!
Date:
Sunday, August 23, 2009
Time:
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August 21, 2009
Catholic San Francisco
7
Local interfaith group continues efforts for comprehensive immigration reform By Michael Vick A local interfaith activist group continues to push for comprehensive immigration reform, even as its prospects for near-term passage dim on the national level, The San Francisco Interfaith Coalition on Immigration, comprised of local Catholic, Anglican, Protestant and Jewish clergy and lay leaders, provides services for immigrants and lobbies on their behalf in the local, state and national arenas. The group began with laity and clergy who wanted an opportunity to directly serve the immigrant community in San Francisco and to join with likeminded people of faith, SFICI member Craig Wong told Catholic San Francisco. “They wanted to build relationships with one another,” said Wong, executive director of Grace Urban Ministries, an outreach program at Grace Fellowship Community Church where SFICI meets monthly. “Now we meet with local and national legislative leaders, participate in interfaith prayer vigils, and pray for the immigrant community and the leaders who make decisions that affect them.” In addition to its advocacy work, the group provides support to families of immigrants caught up in Immigration and Customs Enforcement raids, and helps with basic food, clothing and childcare needs of immigrants. The group also facilitates legal assistance and pastoral care. The work to pass immigration reform takes place while tougher enforcement standards have led to increased deportations. A program called Secure Communities, started during the recent Bush administration and greatly expanded under the Obama administration, allows local officials to check the immigration status of those held in jail to identify and deport illegal immigrants. The program has come under attack from both sides of the immigration debate. Hard-liners charge the program amounts to de facto amnesty for illegal immigrants who have not been arrested for unrelated crimes. Immigration reform advocates say the program disproportionately deports undocumented immigrants arrested for minor crimes, and even leads to the deportation of those whose criminal charges are later dropped. Paulist Father Charles Kullmann, SFICI member and pastor of Old St. Mary’s Church in San Francisco, said the faith backgrounds on which SFICI is based more than balance the worries that prompt a backlash against immigration. “A lot of what motivates people’s issues in this area is fear,” Father Kullmann said. “The best way of dealing with
Paulist Father Charles Kullmann
that is faith – a sense of hospitality and concern for the stranger and the outcast.” Jane Kelly, a parishioner at St. Dominic in San Francisco and an SFICI member, said her faith drew her to participate in the coalition’s efforts. “Jesus said to welcome the stranger,” Kelly said. “That was the genesis of it for me.” Kelly said since her focus was drawn to the issue, she has seen many turn around on the concept of immigration reform. “A lot of folks are waking up in America, and thinking ‘I was lucky to be born here, not that I have any particular merit,’” Kelly said. “If other people have the grit and determination to pull themselves up by their bootstraps, that’s good for them.” Kelly said the willingness of Catholic leaders to speak out on the immigration has been helpful to the movement for reform. “People count on Catholics in this battle,” Kelly said. “We bring the perspective of looking at the outsider as one of us.” Speaking at a joint press conference following a summit in
Guadalajara, Mexico with the leaders of Mexico and Canada Aug. 10, President Obama said while immigration reform is important to his administration, he did not expect a bill this year. With a major fight on healthcare reform and a looming battle over his proposed financial sector overhaul, Obama said immigration would take a back seat to other priorities. “I’ve got a lot on my plate and it’s very important for us to sequence these big initiatives so they don’t crash at the same time,” said Obama, who promised action on immigration reform as a candidate when courting the crucial Latino vote during the campaign. The president said he expected legislation to be drafted by the end of the year, but final passage would not likely come until 2010. At an April 2009 Senate hearing, Bishop John Wester of Salt Lake City, chairman of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Committee on Migration, outlined key points on the reform agenda: • A broad-based legalization program that provides an opportunity for permanent residency for undocumented immigrants living in the United States. • A worker program which provides the same labor protections afforded to citizens, allows for family unity, and a labor market test to ensure U.S. workers are not harmed. • Provisions which reduce the backlog of cases regarding immediate family members of legal permanent residents. • The restoration of due process protections in immigration cases. • Addressing the root causes of immigration, including lack of development in countries of origin. • The inclusion of provisions aimed at providing a path to citizenship for minor undocumented children and addressing the legal status of farm workers. SFICI is joined in its appeal for an immigration overhaul by California’s Catholic bishops, among them Cardinal Roger Mahony of Los Angeles, who issued a statement in June calling on congress and the Obama administration to commit to reforming the system. “Repair of our flawed immigration system is long overdue,” Cardinal Mahony said. “Human beings attempting to work and support their families continue to be subject to exploitation by smugglers and unscrupulous employers, and people continue to tragically perish in the desert. This suffering must come to an end.” The Pew Hispanic Center estimates nearly 12 million undocumented immigrants live in the United States.
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Catholic San Francisco
August 21, 2009
New school year starts for Catholic school communities in Archdiocese Beginning the 2009-10 school year are nearly 17,000 students enrolled in 63 Catholic elementary and middle schools in the Archdiocese of San Francisco. Another 8,200 students will be attending the 14 Catholic secondary schools located within the boundaries of the Archdiocese. Maureen Huntington, Superintendent of Catholic Schools, said preparations for the new school year are well under way, with most of the local schools starting sessions in the latter half of August. “All of the Catholic schools in the Archdiocese of San Francisco have full curriculum programs this year”, said Huntington. “Principals, staff and students are enthusiastically looking forward to the school-year.” “We have only three new elementary school principals and two new high school principals, with only 30 new elementary teachers in our schools this year,” Huntington told Catholic San Francisco. She attributed this low turnover to the difficult economy. New principals and new assistant principals include the following: Caitha Ambler is Dean at Woodside Priory Middle School in Woodside. She completed undergraduate studies in American Studies at University of California and earned her multiple-subject teaching credential from Chapman University. She brings 12 years of experience working in middle school curriculum and educational technology, the school said. The educator has also served as the Social Science Department Chair at the Priory for the last three years. Ambler says her “teaching philosophy centers upon the concept of wonderment” and that she desires to “awaken ideas and questions” in her students in hopes that it will inspire them to become life-long learners. Carol Arritola is Principal at St. Rita Elementary School in Fairfax. She previously served for almost a quarter-century in the schools of Los Angeles, Arizona, Texas, and the Diocese of Oakland. “I am very happy to be a part of the St. Rita School community and look forward to a very successful school year,” she said. Arritola and her husband, Don, have two children and five grandchildren with three enrolled in Catholic school in the Diocese of San Jose. Arritola said “building community” is among her goals and she is “eager to work with the parish and the school to help all the students in their religious and academic education.” Arritola said she “brings a commitment to the Catholic faith to provide the students of the school with an excellent education based on that faith.”
Caitha Ambler
Carol Arritola
Nancy C. Fiebelkorn
Lisa Graham
Dean Partlow
Gordon Sharafinski
Beverly Viotti
Anthony Farrell
Carole Nickolai
Joan O’Neill
Nancy C. Fiebelkorn is Principal of St. Mary’s Chinese Day School in San Francisco. “As I start my 27th year of teaching in Catholic schools, I feel a sense of awe as I embark on a new facet in my vocation as a Catholic educator,” said Feibelkorn. “Becoming Principal of St. Mary’s Chinese Day School as I begin my 18th year of teaching in this community that I sincerely love and respect, is a blessing to me.” The school soon will mark its 88th year of Catholic education in the Chinese Community. “The number 88 means “continue to prosper” in Chinese and my hopes and dreams are to help our school community increase the student population, and work with the parents, students and faculty to make our 88th year a successful one.” Lisa Graham is Principal at Immaculate Conception Academy in San Francisco. She was born in Michigan and is a graduate of the University of Michigan, later doing graduate work at San Francisco State University after moving to the City in 1973. She has taught high school for more than 20 years and most recently was executive director of San Francisco’s Sterne School. “I am particularly interested in student populations typically underserved, and this has been the focus of my career in education,” Graham said. “I believe that inspiring students to see their role in a larger world is the obligation of every good educator and I certainly believe that Catholic schools provide young people with a chance to explore meaning and purpose in ways that other programs cannot. She and her husband,
Walter, are parents of Mia, a college sophomore. Dean Partlow is Principal at San Domenico High School in San Anselmo. Partlow, who holds a graduate degree in counseling, comes to California from the Parker School in Hawaii. “When I stepped onto campus for my first interview,” said Partlow, “I knew San Domenico was a good fit. The confident, passionate, and intelligent young women I have met here inspire me and give me confidence in the next generation of women leaders.” Gordon Sharafinski is Director of Convent of the Sacred Heart and Stuart Hall Schools in San Francisco. He is a graduate of St. Mary’s University, Minnesota, and completed graduate work at the University of St. Thomas. “I am committed to do my best to provide students with the resources they need to learn and to succeed: caring and vibrant teachers, an environment conducive to learning, and the articulation of a philosophy that makes their personal and spiritual growth as important as their intellectual progress,” he said. Beverly Viotti is Principal at St. Matthew Elementary School in San Mateo. Chosen from the ranks, Viotti is now in her 35th year at St. Matthew’s. She began her teaching career in the San Francisco public school system and later moved to Our Lady of Mercy in Daly City. Viotti said she is looking forward to her role as principal. Her entire education was in the Catholic School system and she knows how important it is in forming students with strong, faith based morals and values.
Her goal is to encourage all students to reach their full potential both academically and spiritually. Viotti is married and has four children and five grandchildren, all of whom attended St. Matthew’s. Anthony Farrell is Interim Head of School, Stuart Hall High School. He holds undergraduate and graduate degrees from Stanford University and is a graduate of San Francisco’s St. Ignatius College Prep. He has been the Admissions Director and an English teacher at Stuart Hall since 2003. “Tony believes in and supports the mission of Sacred Heart education and also he appreciates the fact that Stuart Hall High School is part of a distinctive community offering unique educational and growth benefits to boys,” the school said. Carole Nickolai is Assistant Principal for Academics at St. Ignatius College Preparatory in San Francisco. She holds an undergraduate degree in English from UCLA and a graduate degree in the subject from San Francisco State. “Carole is dedicated to the mission of Jesuit education and possesses a comprehensive knowledge of our school’s strengths, challenges, resources and personalities,” principal, Patrick Ruff said. Joan O’Neill is Assistant Principal for Academics at Sacred Heart Cathedral Preparatory in San Francisco. O’Neill, an educator for more than 25 years, has been a member of the SHCP faculty since 2000. Her mom taught in Catholic schools for more than 40 years and her children are graduates of St. Cecilia Elementary School in San Francisco where Joan is still an active parishioner.
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August 21, 2009
Catholic San Francisco
9
Cardinal Levada calls on Knights to proclaim God’s word PHOENIX (CNS) – Cardinal William J. Levada, prefect of the Vatican Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, called upon the Knights of Columbus to bear witness to the necessity of God in an increasingly secular America. “Our nation has been blessed with many gifts and resources, and at times that abundance can blind people to our utter dependence on God and the need to seek to do his will,” Cardinal Levada said during a homily at the Knights’ 127th annual supreme convention. Cardinal Levada, appointed to the Vatican in 2005, is Archbishop Emeritus of the Archdiocese of San Francisco More than 80 bishops as well as delegates and their families numbering several thousand from around the world attended the convention held earlier this month in Phoenix. The congregation for the Aug. 5 Mass numbered 2,000, and the evening before 2,200 people attended the States Dinner, where Cardinal Francis E. George of Chicago, president of the U.S. bishops’ conference, delivered the keynote address. In his homily Cardinal Levada encouraged his listeners to work with all people of good will “to improve the lots of others,” and he exhorted them never to lose their Christian character. “We must also bear witness to our conviction that the American ‘city set on a hill,’ no matter how remarkable its scientific accomplishments or technological advances, will always be a barren patch of earth without the life-giving refreshment of the word of God,” he said. Cardinal Theodore E. McCarrick, retired archbishop of Washington, was the principal celebrant at the morning Mass, which was concelebrated by scores of bishops and priests. During his homily, Cardinal Levada recognized that the Mass fell on the feast of the Dedication of the Basilica of St. Mary Major in Rome. The cardinal told the congregation that in years past the feast was known as the Dedication of the Church of Our Lady of Snows because of a medieval legend that during a Roman summer snow fell and outlined the land where Mary wished her basilica to be built. In juxtaposition to this historical fable, the cardinal said, the real circumstances behind the existing basilica’s founding still have great bearing on Catholics today. The church was built immediately after the Council of Ephesus in 431. That council “marked a significant milestone in the development of our understanding of who Jesus Christ is,” the cardinal said. At Ephesus, the church approved the title “Mother of God” for Mary, and in doing so made a statement about her son, Jesus. “The title ‘Mother of God’ may seem paradoxical, but it is orthodox: paradoxical, because Mary as a creature could not be the mother of God as God,” he said. “Orthodox, because
(CNS PHOTO/COURTESY KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS)
By Andrew Junker
Cardinal William J. Levada, prefect of the Vatican Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, reads a greeting from Pope Benedict XVI at the 127th annual convention of the Knights of Columbus.
to say that Jesus was truly born of Mary and is the eternal son of God effectively proclaims that he is fully human and fully divine,” the cardinal said. He then linked Mary’s own cooperation with God to the Knights’ calling throughout the world. “All Christians are called to give over their lives to Christ, to allow him to live through them,” Cardinal Levada said. On Aug. 4 in his keynote address, Cardinal George spoke about Pope Benedict XVI’s social encyclical, “Caritas in Veritate” (“Charity in Truth”), and the obligations of all Catholics to practice charity in their personal relationships and in the public sphere. He said the pope warned against splitting the church’s teaching into social questions and moral obligations. “A main theme of the encyclical is that there is one Catholic teaching which combines the church’s moral and social doctrine together with our protection of human life and dignity, the defense of marriage and the family, the protection of the poor, the pursuit of economic justice and the practice of solidarity,” the cardinal said.
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Observing that the “church’s unity today is severely strained,” he thanked the Knights for their unwavering support of the pope, bishops and clergy, and asked them to continue to pray for the members of the hierarchy in their efforts, with laypeople, to build a culture of life and a civilization of love. During the three-day convention, the Knights of Columbus passed a number of resolutions touching on right-to-life issues, marriage, violence and pornography. The life resolution cited a personal appeal from Pope Benedict XVI calling on the Knights to “defend the moral truths necessary for a free and humane society, including the fundamental right to life of every human being.”
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10
Catholic San Francisco
August 21, 2009
Monsignor Dreier dies at age 60 . . .
seminary and throughout our priestly lives together,” said Salt Lake City Bishop John C. Wester, who was ordained a priest for the Archdiocese of San Francisco in 1976. “His loving heart was as wide as can be, and he possessed great wisdom and prudence. He was a real pastor who cared for his people and treasured his priestly calling, which allowed him to bring Christ to so many. On behalf of the faithful in the Diocese of Salt Lake City, I extend my deepest condolences to Archbishop Niederauer and the priests and people of the Archdiocese of San Francisco. May Bruce rest in peace.” Franciscan Sister Sheral Marshall, who serves as pastoral associate at St. Robert Parish, also served with Monsignor Dreier in the vocations office of the Archdiocese of San Francisco from 1985-89. “Monsignor Dreier was a good guy for sure,” Sister Sheral told Catholic San Francisco. “He had a very forward looking vision and knew what was important. Sister Sheral said the priest once told her his love of cooking came from each recipe’s having a “beginning, middle and an end” much different from work in ministry which is “mostly planting seeds,” she said. Sister Sheral remembered Monsignor Dreier’s happiness at Masses for children where he would always ask them questions and “enjoy their most original responses.” She also recalled his wonderful homilies at funerals and how he now enjoys “his own resurrection.” He served on many archdiocesan councils and boards over the years, particularly in the areas of education, priestly ministry, stewardship and finance, and his impact on the wider Church through these efforts was substantive, Sister Sheral noted. “Bruce was a great priest and very kind to me especially during some difficult times in my first years as pastor,” said Father Brian Costello, pastor of Mater Dolorosa Parish in South San Francisco. “He would call me and offer support and that’s the kind of guy he was. That he took the time to show his personal concern meant the world to me.”
■ Continued from cover hard times. Bruce was very empathetic as a pastor and was full of life and enthusiasm.” Smiling at the memory Monsignor McElroy said, “He’d always pick something that was crazy for a pastor to do. At Epiphany he ran the bingo ever Tuesday.” Another of Monsignor Dreier’s “hands on” feats was Centerplate at AT&T Park where volunteers help in a concession booth and a portion of their sales benefit their organization. “He’d do all the assigning of people and schedules and help manage the booth. It was hard work. He liked doing it and he liked the Giants so he’d go a lot. Bruce was like that. These things were very important things to him.” Monsignor Dreier “loved celebrating things,” McElroy said. “He was a good lively preacher always very down to earth. He was very goodhearted and would do anything for you.” He also will be remembered as “a wonderful parish priest who loved his people in each of the parishes he served and in doing so became part of the lives of very many of the people helping to console them at the deepest levels when things went awry or tragedy occurred,” Monsignor McElroy said. “He also helped them celebrate all the joyous moments and became part of people’s families in a very real way.” “In a spiritual and pastoral sense, Bruce lived life large,” Monsignor McElroy said. “He was a very effusive, outgoing, gregarious and faith-filled pastor.” Retired San Francisco Archbishop John R. Quinn ordained Monsignor Dreier on May 13, 1978. “Monsignor Dreier embodied the finest qualities of the priests of the Archdiocese of San Francisco,” Archbishop Quinn said. “He was a man of very strong faith, of prayer and unselfish service.” “I have incredibly fond memories of Bruce – in the
Father Costello, who served on the Archdiocesan Council of Priests with Monsignor Dreier, said, “Bruce was a man who spoke his mind and I respected what he had to say because he spoke from experience. He often brought a different light to issues and offered invaluable insights. He was a priest’s priest, a fine, fine man who will be missed.” Father Tom Moran, ordained in 1988 after a career as a labor representative, said, “I would not be a priest except for Bruce Dreier.” Now retired, Father Moran told Catholic San Francisco he had studied for the priesthood as a younger man, but it was Monsignor Dreier who helped Father Moran reconsider his vocation. “Bruce was very encouraging and supportive when I was hesitant about the seminary at this point of my life. He was an extremely good priest and gentle man who did an outstanding job in the parish.” Musicians gathered from St. Robert Parish, Church of the Epiphany, and St. Cecilia Parish to lead song at Monsignor Dreier’s funeral Mass and vigil service. Russell Ferreira, music director at St. Cecilia’s and a parishioner of St. Robert’s, was cantor. “Father Bruce will be greatly missed for his exemplary leadership as pastor, his involvement in all facets of parish life, his wonderful way with children and, of course, as chef for both the men’s club and women’s guild at St. Robert’s,” Ferreira said. “Father Bruce gave us all so much. We will be forever grateful.” Father Roberto Andrey was appointed administrator of St. Robert Parish when Monsignor Dreier’s illness worsened in May. “Bruce was a wonderful person,” Father Andrey said. “I greatly admire his disposition in facing certain death. In his suffering he was so calm and accepting and never complained about the pain. He taught us how to face battling a terminal disease. Like Pope John Paul II, he lived a life of dignity to the end.” Interment was at Holy Cross Cemetery in Colma. Monsignor Dreier’s survivors include a sister, Joan Winquist, and brothers, Gordon and Paul.
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SENIOR LIVING
Catholic San Francisco
S1
Living Well
Age-old questions, age-old wisdom My local newspaper carried a picture of newlyweds, 95 years young, who were celebrating their marriage with a large, extended and multigenerational family. The bride wore white. The groom wore a dapper suit. Both wore big smiles. Looking at that picture, some might wonder, “At their age?!” I, however, marvel at their eagerness to unite themselves to each other in marriage in their twilight years, a commitment that many young people seem to shy away from today. And I rejoice that their families were present to celebrate with them, giving their blessing and support as the couple embarks on a new chapter of life. Truly love knows no age or time limit. This story reminded me of a recent study that found that the risk for Alzheimer’s-like dementia more than doubled in lonely people. Lonely people were also more likely to be less economically and educationally accomplished, and tended to have more health problems than those who reported having strong social ties. Loneliness, it seems, can take a horrible toll on us as we age. And yet, in today’s busy world, many of us find less and less time to nurture strong relationships. Time can pass without our calling a friend, visiting a shut-in relative or reaching out to a neighbor. We might take long-term relationships for granted, giving into pressure to spend time on newer, perhaps more exciting ones. We might shun older people because we think we have nothing in common with them. We might ignore
younger children for the same reason. We might lose sight of the fact that, the Lord willing, we too will reach an older age. True love – a love that reflects our faith and value in the worth of other people – does not develop overnight. It cannot be forged in a few online chat sessions or a couple of dates. Parent-child, husband-wife bonds cannot be improved upon by scheduling in brief “quality time” and ignoring long-term building.
True love – a love that reflects our faith and value in the worth of other people – does not develop overnight. And yet, more and more, that is what many aspects of society, with an emphasis on anti-aging, quick fixes and instant gratification, would lead us to believe. But we know otherwise, and we have examples from Scripture to guide us. The greatest example of a long-term, loving relationship is the one we enjoy with our Creator. In Jeremiah 1:5, God says: “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you.” Yes, God knew us then and he knows us now – and he loves us completely! Love through sacrifice shines in Christ’s example of
selfless giving, by his death on the cross and also through his whole life of service to those young, old, strong and infirm. If we look at love through the eyes of faith and expand our Maureen Pratt understanding of love beyond what television, radio and music outlets describe, we discover that love is ageless and can be expressed in many different relationships. No one is too young or too old for God’s allencompassing love. I think about those “kids,” that couple who traveled 95 years and lived full lives before finding and marrying each other. What an example of the timeless expression of love! Of course, not every loving relationship will end in marriage. But with examples like this one to inspire us, we too can look beyond society’s often one-sided perception of love and help bring Christ’s compassion and love to the world. For with Christ, no one is ever alone. Maureen Pratt is the author of three books including ‘Peace in the Storm: Meditations on chronic pain and illness” available online and at bookstores.
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S2
Catholic San Francisco
August 21, 2009
Don’t let chronic illness isolate you or a loved one institutions.) Learning something new can be energizing and confidence boosting, and in the process you might make new friends. More than half of the senior populaGet involved in your community by voluntion has a chronic illness, defined as a perteering–perhaps with a neighborhood associamanently altered state of health that signifition, church group, charitable cause, political cantly affects daily living. Examples include campaign or environmental issue. arthritis, osteoporosis, diabetes, heart disease If mobility issues prevent you from accessand neurological diseases such as Parkinson’s ing the community, rent or buy a walker, scooter disease. or wheelchair. There can be many difficulties with progresInvestigate available resources in your sive diseases, including altered appearance, community, which might include telephone strength, coordination, energy, communication, reassurance services; friendly visiting services; mobility, roles and responsibilities (including, volunteer driver programs; accessible transperhaps, employment), previously enjoyed portation; therapeutic day programs; outreach pastimes and plans for the future. Increased services such as foot care and seniors’ dental dependence on others can strain relationships clinics; home health services involving personal and threaten identity and negatively affect care, homemaking and therapy services; and self-esteem. supportive housing. Such information can be Common emotions include anger, frustraobtained from the area agency on aging. tion, fear, anxiety, sadness and embarrassment. Do nice things for others, especially those If not resolved, they can result in a negative who are going through a difficult time. This attitude characterized by bitterness, self-pity, takes your mind off your own situation, boosts self-loathing or hopelessness, alienating othCompanionship can help overcome the isolation of chronic illness. your self-esteem and strengthens relationers or prompting voluntary withdrawal from ships. social situations. Get a pet. Cats and dogs provide companionship and Such separation from others fosters loneliness and may Make it easy for people to get in touch with you. Get an affection, and give you a sense of purpose. Owning a dog precipitate depression. While sustaining all relationships answering machine and perhaps also a portable phone. may be impossible, close relationships – a vital source of Keep in touch with out-of-area loved ones through regular also ensures you get out of the house and get regular exercise, pleasure, validation and practical support – need to be nur- phone calls (find a good long-distance savings plan), letters facilitates socialization and offers security. Just make sure you can properly care for the type of pet you’d prefer to own. tured or, if need be, new connections forged. or e-mail. If you live alone and don’t like it, consider taking in a If you or a loved one is living with a chronic health condiFind at least one person you can talk to openly, who will boarder, sharing accommodation with a relative or friend, tion, here are some ways to prevent or overcome isolation. really listen and empathize. Recognize that, like you, your family and friends will Consider joining a community support group for people relocating to a condominium or apartment in a senior living need time to adjust to the reality of your illness and the challenged with a similar illness. Information on groups community or moving into a retirement home. Seek help from your family doctor or a counselor if you lifestyle changes it necessitates, and may not know what to can be obtained from your local hospital, community social say or do. Let them know how you wish to be treated, and workers and your local office on aging. Online message continually feel sad, angry or overwhelmed. There is no need keep the lines of communication open. boards and chat rooms, and electronic mailing lists or dis- to suffer, because depression is highly treatable. The sooner Accept offers of help and ask for assistance if necessary. cussion forums are some alternatives if it’s hard to get out you seek professional help, the sooner you will once again be able to experience enjoyment in your day-to-day life. Give loved ones the opportunity to support you in practical or you prefer anonymity. ways. Sign up for an adult education course or lessons that Lisa M. Petsche is a clinical social worker Take the initiative in calling friends and relatives to interest you—for example, gourmet cooking, pottery or creand a freelance writer specializing talk or arrange get-togethers. Instead of waiting for invita- ative writing. (Check out the programs available at the local tions, extend them. senior center or community center as well as educational in spirituality and health matters.
By Lisa M. Petsche
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S3
Catholic San Francisco
August 21, 2009
Volunteers say they work mostly through religious organizations By Patricia Zapor WASHINGTON (CNS) – The most common way people do volunteer work in the United States is through a religious organization, with 36 percent saying it’s the main outlet for their volunteering. A report on volunteering released July 28 by the Corporation for National and Community Service, a federal agency, also noted that nonprofit organizations without religious connections are missing an opportunity by not partnering with faith-based groups. The report, “Volunteering in America 2009,” found that nearly 62 million people in the U.S. volunteered in 2008, an increase of about one million from the previous year. Using data from the U.S. Census Bureau and the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the report said 83 percent of the country’s congregations participate in or support social service, community development or neighborhood organizing projects. It said that, although the greatest percentage of volunteers do so through religious organizations and studies have found such volunteers are more likely than others to keep a long-term commitment to the work, only 15 percent of nonprofit charities with secular missions have partnerships with faith-based organizations. “Nonprofits looking to expand their reach and impact may find it beneficial to work more closely with religious organizations in their communities, especially in these tough economic times,” said a statement from Nicola Goren, acting CEO of the Corporation for National and Community Service. Young adult volunteers, ages 16-24, made up nearly half the overall increase in the number of volunteers, the report said, growing to 8.2 million from 7.8 million between 2007 and 2008. The volunteer rate for this group is about 22 percent. For mid-life adults, the volunteer rate us about 32 percent, and the
rate of volunteering among older adults is about 24 percent. Charitable giving in 2008 declined over the previous year for the first time in more than 20 years. But with the number of volunteers nationwide on the increase, many organizations that were hit by declining donations were able to compensate somewhat with unpaid help, it said. One of three organizations reported relying more on volunteers because of the economic downturn. The report said that trend is expected to continue, with 48 percent of the organizations saying they will rely more on volunteers this year. Thirty-three percent of the organizations said they expected to cut staff in the coming year. Staff cuts can’t totally be covered by volunteers, the report noted. “While increased reliance on volunteers has proved to be a useful strategy for coping with the economic crisis, it is hardly a panacea,” it said. Eighty percent of the organizations that responded to the survey had experienced “fiscal stress” in the period between September 2008 and March 2009, it said. Organizations that can’t keep paid staffers also are more likely to find it more difficult to manage and retain volunteers, the report said. “While volunteers are playing and will continue to play an instrumental role in helping the nonprofit sector survive the economic crisis without reducing its services, over the long run it will be important to avoid thinking of volunteers as a substitute for paid staff,” it said. “To the contrary, in normal times it is precisely the presence of paid staff that makes volunteer assignments most effective.” Another part of the report investigated why people do and don’t volunteer. “Non-volunteers see themselves as essentially different from volunteers,” the report said, explaining that they think of volunteers as retirees, people without children and with “an excess of leisure time.”
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VOLUNTEER RATES ARE HIGHEST in the Midwest, with six of the top 10 volunteering states.
WASH MONT ORE
37%
ND 35%
WYO NEV
SD
NEB
44%
COLO
WIS
36% IOWA
39%
PENN
37% ILL
KAN 36%
ARIZ
OKLA NM
OHIO
IND
KY
TEXAS
HAWAII
VA
MASS RI CONN
NJ DEL
WV
MO
MD
DC
ARK with highest rates of volunteering states A
ALASKA
38%
NH
NY MICH
UTAH CALIF
VT
38%
IDAHO
MAINE
36%
MINN
GA
36% of LAvolunteers in 2008 served through a
religious organization
47% of volunteers over age 65FLAvolunteer mainly through faith-based organizations.
Source: Corporation for National & Community Service ©2009 CNS
“While these characteristics may be true for some volunteers, research shows that volunteers span a range of demographics, including age, race, marital status, employment and parenthood,” the report said. What it called a disconnect between perception and reality could be important to recognize for organizations looking to recruit new volunteers. It suggested that organizations showcase current volunteers and their stories to “help
non-volunteers see that they are just like volunteers.” Many people who don’t volunteer hesitate because they don’t want to make an indefinite commitment of time, it said. And they said they are more likely to volunteer if someone they know asks them to do so. While some said they would prefer to be able to use a skill they already have, others said they’d prefer to learn something new.
Better health awareness sessions sponsored by local hospitals Two local hospitals are holding better health sessions for the public later this month. St. Mary’s Medical Center in San Francisco will host Current Advances in Wound Care with Dr. David Young Aug. 26 at 2:30 p.m. Dr. Young will present advances in wound treatment options for both chronic and acute wounds including pressure ulcers, diabetic ulcers, radiation wounds, varicose veins and more. Classes include question and answer sessions and refreshments. The sessions will be held at St. Mary’s Medical Center, Cafeteria - Level B, 450 Stanyan St. at Fulton in San Francisco. Free admission, but registration encouraged at (415) 750-4991. Parking is available at a reduced rate in the St. Mary’s parking garage. The hospital also is served by Muni 5, 21 and 33. On Aug. 30 from 2 – 5 p.m., Seton Medical Center is presenting talks on Colorectal Cancer Awareness. The free symposium takes place at St. Augustine Parish Hall, 3700 Callan Blvd. in South San Francisco. Talks cover diagnosis, treatments, and additional aspects of the condition. Call Nelia Chang, RN at (650) 991-6023 or (650) 878-9463 for more information. D I S T I N C T I V E L Y
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S4
Catholic San Francisco
August 21, 2009
Notre Dame alumnus reunited with missing class ring after 52 years By Barb Arland-Fye Walter Dray Sr., 92, displays his 1940 class ring from Notre Dame University. The ring was returned to him after being lost for 52 years. (CNS PHOTO/BARB ARLAND-FYE, THE CATHOLIC MESSENGER)
DAVENPORT, Iowa (CNS) – Walter Dray Sr. treasured his 1940 class ring from the University of Notre Dame in Indiana. He even wore it in place of a wedding ring, with the blessing of his wife, Peg. When the Davenport businessman and father of eight lost the ring in 1957 at the bottom of a Wisconsin lake, he was heartbroken, but Peg assured him the ring eventually would be found. She was right, but unfortunately did not live to see the joy the ring’s return would bring to her husband. Fifty-two years after it disappeared, the ring is back on Dray’s finger. He believes it’s a gift from his late wife, with God’s blessings. “The whole thing is sort of miraculous,” Dray said, happily wearing the gold ring with a blue stone. The reunification of Dray, now 92, and his ring is a story within a story. Years ago, a Wisconsin retiree named John MacDonald took up a metal-detecting hobby and found numerous pieces of jewelry while combing beaches and lake bottoms. MacDonald died years ago and the jewelry sat in his wife’s closet, said their son, Drew MacDonald, a real estate planning attorney in Appleton, Wis. The younger MacDonald began a quest to find the owners of the long-lost heirlooms that were traceable. “I help people plan for their family heirlooms to be passed on to the next generation and here I am sitting with a box of heirlooms and I want to get them back to their owners,” he told The Catholic Messenger, newspaper of the Diocese of Davenport.
MacDonald found the inscription “Walter Dray Class of 1940” etched on the inside of Dray’s ring. He contacted the Notre Dame Alumni Association in early July inquiring about the ring’s owner. “They said, to my surprise, that the gentleman who graduated in 1940 was still alive and they asked if he could give me a call,” he said. So Walter Dray phoned Drew MacDonald. “He was so incredibly happy you couldn’t believe it,” MacDonald said. “His faith that he was going to get this ring back was incredible. He was under the complete belief that his wife helped guide it back home to him.” So far, no one else who has claimed a ring from MacDonald’s collection had one missing as long as Dray. The recovery of Dray’s ring gives him a comforting sense
of Peg. Longtime members of St. Paul the Apostle Parish in Davenport, the couple had been married 66 years when she died in October 2007. They met when he was a senior at Notre Dame and she was a senior at neighboring St. Mary’s College in South Bend, Ind. The pair married a year after graduation. Dray lost the class ring while swimming and snorkeling with his kids during a family trip to the lake. Dray’s children wanted to get a replacement ring for their father, but his wife advised against it. “Peg said, ‘You’re going to find that ring. Some day it’s going to come back.’ And here it is more than 50 years and it came back!” Dray said. “My kids say that’s Peg’s gift. She wanted to give me a gift. That’s the way I feel about it. This was a gift from Peg.”
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August 21, 2009
Catholic San Francisco
S5
CASTEL GANDOLFO, Italy (CNS) – The assumption of Mary is a sign of hope for all Christians that through baptism and by faithfully following Christ they will have eternal life, Pope Benedict XVI said. “In the Virgin assumed into heaven we contemplate the coronation of her faith, of that journey of faith that she indicates for the church and for each of us; she, who at every moment welcomed the word of God, has been assumed in heaven,” the pope said Aug. 15. Pope Benedict, his right arm still in a cast from a mid-July injury, celebrated Mass for the feast of the Assumption in the tiny parish Church of St. Thomas of Villanova, just across the square from the papal villa at Castel Gandolfo. The pope also recited the Angelus prayer at noon Aug. 15 and Aug. 16 with visitors gathered in the courtyard of the papal villa. In both Angelus addresses he continued reflecting on Mary’s life and her assumption into heaven. In his Mass homily, the pope said that even in moments of “darkness and suffering,” Mary continued to follow God’s plan of love, placing her life totally in his hands. For Mary and for every Christian, he said, “all of life is an ascent, all of life is meditation, obedience, trust and hope, even amid the darkness.” Pope Benedict said life involves struggles between good and evil and is like “a voyage on often stormy seas; Mary is the star that guides us toward her son Jesus, the sun that rises over the darkness of history.” Mary’s life and her assumption “gives us the hope we need: the hope that we can win, that God has won and that, through baptism, we have entered into this victory,” the pope said. In his Angelus address after the Mass, the pope tied the feast to the Year for Priests and asked the world’s priests to teach their faithful about Mary, using as their model St. John Vianney, the patron saint of parish priests. The pope said the saint repeatedly consecrated his parish to Mary, entrusting each parishioner to her care. St. John Vianney also recommended “especially that mothers do the same with their children,” the pope said. Pope Benedict said there is a special connection between priests and Mary that comes from the mystery of the Incarnation. “When God decided to become man in his Son, he needed the freely given ‘yes’ of one of his creatures. God never acts against our freedom. Something truly extraordi-
(CNS PHOTO/A LESSIA PIERDOMENICO, REUTERS)
Pope says Mary’s assumption is sign of hope for all Christians
nary occurred: God made himself dependent on the freedom, on the ‘yes’ of one of his creatures,” he said. The pope said, “The ‘yes’ of Mary was the door through which God could enter the world and become human. So Mary was truly, deeply involved in the mystery of the Incarnation and our salvation.” Welcoming visitors to the papal villa Aug. 16, the pope looked at the connection between Mary and the Sunday Gospel reading in which Jesus said “I am the bread come down from heaven.” Jesus was able to become human and give himself for the nourishment and salvation of all people because Mary said “yes” to God’s plan that Jesus be born of a human mother, the pope said. “It is a kind of exchange in which God always takes the initiative but, in a certain sense, one that needs Mary in order to prepare the material for his sacrifice: the body and blood to be offered on the cross as the instrument of eternal life and, in the sacrament of the Eucharist, as spiritual food and drink,” he said. God also needs every man and woman to welcome him so that Christ can live in the world, Pope Benedict said. “And if we say ‘yes’ like Mary, or rather to the extent that we give our ‘yes,’ that which happened in that marvelous exchange also will happen with us: We will be assumed into the divinity of the One who assumed our humanity,” the pope said.
Pope Benedict XVI greets the crowd after celebrating Mass for the feast of the Assumption at the Church of St. Thomas of Villanova in Castel Gandolfo, Italy, Aug. 15. The pope was still wearing a cast on his right arm from a mid-July injury.
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S6
Catholic San Francisco
August 21, 2009
Viewpoints What can be done to help elders who are abused? WASHINGTON (CNS) – The American Psychological Association says that up to 2.1 million elderly people are abused or neglected each year in the U.S. – and that number only includes reported cases. There are many more unreported cases. With the economy struggling, many state and local agencies have made cuts to programs that provide assistance to abused elders. So what can be done in the church to help these victims? Liz Quirin, editor of The Messenger, newspaper of the Diocese of Belleville, Ill., says the church hierarchy should provide assistance to parishes that can be a link to life-saving assistance to those who no longer feel able to reach out for that help themselves. Tom Sheridan, former editor of The Catholic New World, newspaper of the Archdiocese of Chicago, and a deacon ordained for the Diocese of Joliet, Ill., says that elder abuse is a human dignity issue and should be confronted by pastors and parishes.
Supporting our venerable and now vulnerable elders the elder at the center of this maelstrom. With statistics showing that more than 35 million When Polly and Ed took Ed’s brother to the hospital Americans are over 65, the potential for elder abuse is last year, they had no idea what was about to happen, rising exponentially and will continue to do so for the how they would be pulled into an emoforeseeable future. In fact, people readtional battle lasting for months as they ing this column could be the targets of navigated through the courts to gain one or more forms of elder abuse: finanguardianship of their aging relative. cial, emotional, psychological, physical Still not settled, the couple, along or sexual. with other siblings, must contend with a Many organizations and entities have court-appointed guardian who does not been and are being created to expose and guard, attorneys who seem more condeal with those who exploit the elders cerned with billable hours than resolving among us. But what is the church doing the problems and women who are not in this arena? related to the man contesting the guardThe clerical hierarchy has spoken ianship but appearing more interested in about the “Blessings of Age” (the title Ed’s brother’s money. of a statement by the U.S. bishops), and For his part, the brother, whom we hundreds of articles have been written can call Al, is disappearing into the and posted about the clergy and sexual quicksand of Alzheimer’s disease, ragabuse, but the church has been relatively ing at his relatives and failing to undersilent about elder abuse. Liz Quirin stand what is happening to him and his It’s past time our bishops should money. It’s a classic case of elder abuse with the court speak out about the treatment and care of our elders. system an active participant without seeming to care for They have made statements about elders, their gifts, their contributions to parish life and the church, but none has crafted and drafted statements in defense of elders Do you want to participate and the abuse they could and do suffer at the hands of in a neuroscience research relatives, caregivers and so-called friends. study at UCSF? In some cases, parishes have developed programs to care for their elders, especially those who are most • We are looking for healthy • If you meet the following
By Liz Quirin
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fragile, in their communities. This could be a first line of defense against abuse of elder parishioners. But parishes could use the support of the larger church in developing programs and materials to assist them. The next step in the chain of command would be the diocese. The question: How are dioceses assisting parishes in nurturing and protecting some of their most vulnerable parishioners? It isn’t easy to develop and distribute materials that promote a Gospel response to a problem that is generally kept secret by those perpetrating the abuse as well as by those who are abused. However, this is a life – and sometimes a death – issue for people who may not know how to access help. Parishioners concerned about members of their community can be a link to life-saving assistance to those who no longer feel able to reach out for that help themselves. If we are truly pro-life, we cannot turn our backs on these, our venerable and now vulnerable elders. We need to hear words not only of wisdom but also of concern for elders who may be caught in cycles of abuse from which they see no exit. Local, state and federal agencies have developed policies, procedures and tools to assist elders when they are in danger, but someone must take that first critical step with a telephone call or a visit to intervene on behalf of the person in danger. With our faith and a commitment to serve, we can make a difference right here, right now.
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Catholic San Francisco
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Age brings a shifting perspective on elder abuse 60s. We become more vulnerable as we age, not just to physical problems and limitations Years ago – sometimes it seems like a but also to emotional ones. It’s those vulnerlifetime – I listened to a plea for help from abilities than can open us to financial and an old woman. other threats. Several pleas, actually. Statistics are sobering. She whimpered about how A recent report by the the landlord was treating National Center on Elder her. Abuse showed a 20 perIt was part of the job I cent increase in reports of had then, sort of a troubleabuse and neglect of older shooter for a major newsAmericans between 2000 paper. I’d invite peoples’ and 2004. problems and try to find While some elder abuse help. Then maybe I’d write is physical, much is aimed about it in a column. Most at the pocketbook. And problems I listened to over much never gets reported. 15 years were consumerI’m in my mid-60s, related, more mundane living in one of those than the old woman’s. But active-adult communities there were other painful that have popped up to Tom Sheridan troubles like hers as well. meet the demands of the The old woman? She probably wasn’t boomer generation. I’m still pretty sharp – that old, at least not as I understand “old” or at least I keep telling myself that. But I today, when a graying beard greets me carefully scrutinize every piece of e-mail, daily in the shaving mirror. every advertisement I receive, to be certain She was likely in her 60s, hardly ancient I’m not exposing myself to identity theft, by my current standards. Back then, “old” financial shenanigans or outright fraud. was anything north of 50. And the words Was that old woman a victim of elder “elder abuse” weren’t common. Or maybe abuse? Or was her landlord just trying to not even coined yet. protect his property from damage by an The woman complained that that the addled tenant? Professionals and even landlord was abusing her. Not physically, skilled volunteers can help resolve conbut harassing her over access to her small flicts and make a difference. apartment. She accused him of sneaking Certainly, parishes with a large proporin when she wasn’t home and removing tion of senior citizens come across elder belongings. abuse through their usual service minisToday the woman might scream “elder tries. Other Catholic institutions meet the abuse” and get help from some official challenge head-on. agency. A newspaper columnist like me For instance, Loyola University in had no legal power, but after listening to Chicago began an innovative program in both sides I found a local pastor to medi- 2000 called the Elder Law Initiative to ate. I guess the problem went away; I never help develop policy on elder abuse. In heard from her again. 2006, the university established the Elder Sadly, that’s not always what happens. Law Clinic, and works with clients using Elder abuse has become a part of modern volunteer lawyers. culture, as America’s boomers age into their Today I look at the problems of elder
By Tom Sheridan
abuse in a different light than I did as a much younger journalist. I’m as old, certainly, as that woman whose pleas for help I heard so long ago. While I may not – now, at least – be as vulnerable to the many threats that face America’s aging population, perhaps one day I indeed will be.
The church speaks a great deal about the dignity of life. That’s one more reason why parishes and pastors should place an increased focus on elder abuse. It can prevent damaging interpersonal problems and preserve the dignity of aging congregants.
For more information on elder abuse and its prevention, see the following websites: National Committee for the Prevention of Elder Abuse – www.preventelderabuse.org U.S. Administration on Aging – Nation Center on Elder Abuse – www.ncea.aoa.gov San Francisco Elder Abuse Forensic Center – www.sfeafc.org
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Catholic San Francisco
August 21, 2009
Plight of Europe’s ‘secret sisters’ depicted in documentary WASHINGTON (CNS) – Women religious in Central and Eastern Europe who kept their faith alive clandestinely for more than 40 years during communist rule, undeterred by threats of torture, exile and imprisonment, will be featured in a TV documentary produced by three nuns. The documentary focuses on the plight of Eastern-rite and Latin-rite Catholic nuns, many of whom are now in their 80s and 90s. Through extensive interviews with the “sister survivors,” viewers are brought stories of courage, hope and fidelity during a time of political and religious repression. “We asked ourselves the question, ‘Who is saving and recording these stories?’” Sister Margaret Nacke told Catholic News Service during a phone interview. Sister Mary Savoie added, “We were told the accounts couldn’t be preserved in archives. There were no records about what was happening. We thought, ‘This will be a lost history.’” Sisters Margaret and Mary, members of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Concordia, Kan., have been collecting oral histories and researching the experiences of East European sisters for nearly six years. Their findings form the basis of their documentary, “Interrupted Lives: Catholic Sisters Under European Communism,” a project that grew out of their larger project titled “Sister Survivors of European Communism.” The one-hour documentary “Interrupted Lives” will be released to ABC-TV stations and affiliates Sept. 13. Broadcast is at the discretion of the local station. “We spent three years just collecting testimonies, photographs and anything we could get a hold of in the five countries we visited. What we found is archived at Chicago’s
(CNS PHOTO/COURTESY SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH)
By Carmen Blanco
Sister Josefa Erdes of Romania is interviewed in a documentary titled “Interrupted Lives: Catholic Sisters Under European Communism.” The film will be released to ABC-TV stations and affiliates on September 13.
Catholic Theological Union in the Paul Bechtold Library,” Sister Mary told CNS. The sisters, who also are the executive producers of the documentary, volunteered in Romania after the fall of Soviet communism and worked in curriculum development. While in Romania, they heard testimonies from the women religious describing their experience during communist times. “Last October, the film crew took two Romanian sisters, Sister Clare and Sister Josefa, who both worked in Bucharest, back to Jilava Prison, where they were sentenced during Soviet rule. The prison is still functioning today,” Sister Margaret told CNS. Sister Clare, a member of the Congregation of Jesus, worked in the nunciature in Bucharest before she was arrested on the accusation she was a Vatican spy. She spent 14 years in prison where she endured beatings and torture.
Sister Josefa, of the Religious of the Assumption order, worked as an administrator in a Bucharest hospital when she was arrested for allowing a priest to say Mass in her office. She was sentenced to six years in prison and given amnesty, then was rearrested and sent to a re-education camp for two years of forced labor. “Sister Clare spent some time at the Jilava Prison with Sister Josefa,” Sister Mary told CNS. “On the way to the prison, they picked wildflowers. When they arrived at the prison, they went into an empty prison cell, which is still in use, and laid flowers on the window sill and prayed in Romanian for the forgiveness of all that had happened there.” “Sister Clare said she could now die and go to heaven,” Sister Mary told CNS. “She was bound and determined to go visit the prison. She remembered her fellow religious
sister’s burial site and had her body dug up saying, ‘She is one of ours and deserves a proper burial.’” Atheistic sentiments marked Soviet communism but the degrees of religious oppression varied from country to country. From the 1940s until the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989, the Catholic Church and other religions were suppressed and driven underground. Church property was seized and destroyed, catechetical teaching was banned and members of the religious community were urged to either renounce their faith and relinquish their vows or face imprisonment, exile or forced work on farms or in factories. The documentary was funded in part by the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Catholic Communication Campaign and the Collection for the Church in Central and Eastern Europe, which is part of the USCCB’s Committee on National Collections. A total of $185,000 was donated for the sisters’ documentary project. Shortly after the fall of communism, the USCCB established the Collection for the Church in Central and Eastern Europe to help the church in the region restore its pastoral capacity and regain the strength it lost during the decades of communist oppression. Franciscan Sister Judy Zielinski, writer and producer for NewGroup Media, assisted with the documentary. She has written and produced documentaries both domestically and internationally, including two public TV broadcasts set in the Holy Land and the NBCdistributed documentary, “Jesus Decoded.” Sister Mary told CNS, “My hope is that people will be inspired by the courage and commitment it took for these Catholic sisters to sustain themselves and live through ... that part of history.”
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Catholic San Francisco
11
In his life, his faith and his priesthood, he was like Peter ■ Continued from page 3
of parish life – as high school chaplain, director of vocations, secretary to the priests’ personnel board, chaplain to the fire department and the Italian Catholic Federation. Bruce committed to these roles the same energy, drive, enthusiasm and generosity of heart which had characterized his parish ministry, and during these eight years Bruce developed a breadth of vision that allowed him to become a real leader in the presbyterate of the archdiocese because he united a fervent commitment to the centrality of parish life with a perspective that embraced all of the elements of ecclesial life within our local church. In June of 1992, Jesus came to Bruce and asked him “Bruce do you love me?” Bruce said “Lord, you know that I love you” and Jesus said “Feed my lambs at the Church of the Epiphany.” Thus began Bruce’s exhilarating pastorate at San Francisco’s largest parish. Bruce brought with him to Epiphany the style of all encompassing and exhausting priesthood which he had undertaken at St. Elizabeth’s.
Health reform bill . . .
cal gains on abortion in the health care reform debate.” Rev. Wallis was speaking during a conference call for media announcing a 40-day campaign to mobilize the faith community on health care reform. The effort includes a national television ad, a series of prayer vigils and rallies around the country, a conference call with President Obama and faith leaders, a national health care Sabbath weekend Aug. 28-30 and other events after Congress returns to work in September. Tom Grenchik, executive director of the USCCB ProLife Office, said that the pro-life Catholic response to the debate over Obama’s health care overhaul is clear: health care reform must not be pushed at the expense of the unborn lives the current bill puts at risk. “As Congress takes its vacation, various proposals have been left behind,” wrote Grenchik in a column posted Aug. 14. “These proposals need to be examined to see how well they provide accessible, affordable and quality health care and how they impact immigrants and the poor. “But one thing is certain,” he said. “The bills approved so far by House and Senate committees include mandated abortion coverage and abortion funding, and that is a line we can never cross.” Grenchik said Bishop William Murphy’s recent letter to Congress already “drew a line” on the limits of health care reform. Even before abortion was specifically mentioned in the health care bills, he noted, Murphy warned lawmakers that “no health care reform plan should compel us or others to pay for the destruction of human life, whether through government funding or mandatory coverage of abortion.” While some may have been “surprised at this,” Grenchik pointed out, “Those with longer memories may recall that the Medicaid statute doesn’t mention abortion either, but it was funding 300,000 abortions a year in the 1970s until we put a stop to that with the Hyde amendment.” “In any case,” he noted, “numerous amendments to keep
Bruce, and when his second term ended at Epiphany I thought that we were going to have to enroll him in a grief ministry group said: ‘Feed my lambs at St. Elizabeth’s parish.’ Thus began for a year. He just did not want to leave. Bruce’s first assignment as he learned what it is like to literally But the Lord had given Bruce a great blessing in his new fall in love with a parish. Bruce poured all of his considerable parish of St. Robert’s. Bruce cherished the vitality of his new energy and faith and talents and empathy into serving the assignment. He immersed himself in the men’s club, women’s Catholic community of the Portola District – ministering to club, In-Betweeners, Second Springers, the sports program, the sick, baptizing the young, preparing eager couples for marCenterplate, and the school and religious education programs. riage, teaching in the school, directing youth ministry, burying But effective as Bruce was at St. Robert’s in celebrating the the dead. But even as early as St. Elizabeth’s it was clear that sacraments, generating enthusiasm, leading programs, working Bruce’s priesthood was going to be different and distinctive with the schoolchildren, counseling, consoling and showing – it was going to be hands on and heart in all the way. Bruce compassion to those in need, it became clear last December that undertook a style of ministry which was at one and the same the distinctive pastoral love which Bruce was to exercise at St. time both exhausting and rejuvenating for him – staying up all Roberts was to have nothing to do with any of these activities. night for three nights with the family that had lost a teenage Nor was it to draw upon attributes which had always marked son; repeatedly helping the addicted mother in every possible Bruce’s priesthood: energy, enthusiasm, strength, a sense of way even when it was clear that his efforts would probably being in charge, and direction. Rather, the distinctive pastoral not avert tragedy; cancelling his vacation to organize a love which Bruce was to exercise at St. Robert’s was to family intervention for the teenager who had run away lie in the opposite of all of these qualities – in weakness, from home. In all of these ways, Bruce’s priesthood helplessness, tiredness, and receiving assistance rather ‘Bruce is running now, running with all was distinctive: hands on and heart in. than giving it. In short, the distinctive pastoral love that It was at St. Elizabeth’s, too, that Bruce developed his Bruce was called to exercise at St. Robert’s was the pasof the faith and enthusiasm and love activist approach to parish activities. He was the guide toral love of the cross. Jesus was asking the shepherd to for the seniors’ trip to New England. He organized a experience, embrace and witness to all of those dimenand energy that emblazoned his life on massive trip to Disneyland for the teen club where the sions of human suffering from which he had tried to lift kids slept six to a room in the penny sleeper motel and his flocks during the whole of his priesthood. this earth, running far beyond our sight, Bruce and I shared a moth eaten cubicle. He cooked for Over the span of the past eight months, Monsignor the parish festival, called the numbers at the champagne Bruce Dreier has constantly edified me, the person who running with joy overflowing in his bingos and designed an annual haunted house for the probably knows him best in this world, by his willingness kids on Halloween. He formed community from the to embrace the sufferings of his illness and death and his bottom up. willingness to share them with his people. And I have been heart, running to meet the risen Lord.’ One day during our time at St. Elizabeth’s Bruce equally edified by the outpouring of love for Bruce from came into the rectory and said to me “I just came from all those whom he has served over his priesthood. Bruce the baseball organizing meeting. No one was willing to coach But the Epiphany experience brought to Bruce’s priesthood truly received the fruit of his labors in the magnificent messages, the varsity team this year so I signed up as coach with you as a new depth and dimension that enhanced the ministerial style calls, visits, offers of assistance and care which were showered my assistant.” I immediately objected “We don’t know anything that he had developed at St. Elizabeth’s. That depth arose from upon him. And in the beautiful DVD which St. Robert’s parish about coaching baseball, and the reason that no one is willing to Bruce’s increasing recognition that feeding Christ’s flock in this prepared for his 60th birthday one week before he died, Bruce coach that team is that they haven’t won a single game in three archdiocese entails a dedication to and zest for multi-cultural received the most splendid farewell possible to prepare him for years.” “That’s the beauty of it,” Bruce said. “We can’t possibly ministry. Epiphany, with its multitude of ethnic and racial com- his pilgrimage to God. do worse than our predecessors. It’s a win-win.” Thus began our munities – Filipino, Italian, Hispanic, Irish, Pacific Islander, In the Gospel of John, when Peter first hears the call of the coaching careers as we prepared for a season with a collection African American, Chinese and many more was a flock of risen Lord through the words of Mary Magdalene, Peter immeof kids who were terrific personalities but had no athletic skill many colors and cultures. Bruce came to see that for them to diately gets up from the table and runs as fast as he can to the whatsoever. Bruce and I would feel like Babe Ruth and Mickey constitute a true community of faith they had to be loved into empty tomb to encounter the risen Lord. Mantle during the batting practices compared to these kids, and unity – a love which respected the beauty of every culture and Now I recognize that any analogy which envisions we entered the season filled with hope. Our team had a great yet which saw all as unified in Christ. Building upon the won- Monsignor Bruce Dreier running is a hard sell. Even when time that season. But Bruce was wrong in his prediction. You derful foundation that had been established by his predecessor, he played football at Marin Catholic, Bruce was a lineman, see, CYO baseball, like many leagues, had a “slaughter rule” Father Pearse McCarthy, Bruce loved each community into and I doubt that he ever came in first in the daily windwhich said that a game was automatically ended if one team unity – eating countless lumpia and cannoli; dancing the samba sprints, or second or third for that matter. But four weeks got eleven runs ahead. Our team not only lost every game that and the jig, celebrating multicultural liturgies, organizing prayer ago when Bruce entered St. Mary’s Hospital for the last time, season, but lost every game by the slaughter rule, a feat which groups and international nights; leading posadas and Simbang he discerned that the Lord was calling to him. He began to long-time umpire Benny Léger told us was unprecedented in Gabi. For Bruce, this was the Catholicity of the church in the embrace those of us who have walked the journey of life his 20 years of CYO officiating. But at the end of the season concrete, and this boy from the whitest of suburbs of Marin with him and sent his love to the communities which he the kids pooled their money and bought Bruce a large engraved came to see multi-cultural ministry not as an obstacle or even served, and started moving off from our midst, moving with trophy reading “world’s best-hearted coach” because he was a challenge in his priesthood, but as the prism through which greater speed with every passing day. I believe that Bruce is willing to train their team when no one else would. Feed my his priesthood must shine. Bruce loved the communities of running now, running with all of the faith and enthusiasm lambs. Feed my sheep. Epiphany with all his heart, loved them in their diversity, loved and love and energy that emblazoned his life on this earth, In 1982, Jesus came to Bruce amidst the height of his excite- them in their unity. Feed my lambs. Feed my sheep. running far beyond our sight, running with joy overflowing ment about being a parish priest and said “Bruce, do you love In 2002 Jesus came for a final time to Bruce and said “Bruce, in his heart, running to meet the risen Lord. me.” Bruce said “Lord, you know that I love you.” and Jesus do you love me?” and Bruce responded “Lord you must know Monsignor Robert W. McElroy is pastor of responded “Feed my lambs at Sacred Heart High School.” by now that I love you.” And Jesus said “I want you to feed my In this way Bruce began his ministry outside the bounds sheep at St. Robert’s parish.” Good-byes were always hard for St. Gregory Parish in San Mateo.
■ Continued from cover He also thanked the committee for approving an amendment “prohibiting governmental bodies that receive federal funds under this act from discriminating against providers and insurers who decline involvement in abortion.” Cardinal Rigali’s comments came in an Aug. 11 letter to each House member. He urged that attention be paid to the priorities and concerns for health reform outlined in an earlier letter from Bishop William F. Murphy of Rockville Centre, N.Y., chairman of the bishops’ Committee on Domestic Justice and Human Development. The U.S. bishops “have long supported health care reform that respects human life and dignity from conception to natural death; provides access to quality health care for all, with a special concern for immigrants and the poor; preserves pluralism, with respect for rights of conscience; and restrains costs while sharing them equitably,” Cardinal Rigali said, reiterating points from Bishop Murphy’s letter. “Much-needed reform must not become a vehicle for promoting an ‘abortion rights’ agenda or reversing longstanding policies against federal funding and mandated coverage of abortion,” the cardinal said. “In this sense we urge you to make this legislation ‘abortion-neutral’ by preserving long-standing federal policies that prevent government promotion of abortion and respect conscience rights.” Meanwhile, one Christian leader expressed confidence that supporters and opponents of abortion would reach agreement to keep any health reform plan approved by Congress abortion-neutral and to include conscience protections. “People on both sides of the debate have agreed to these principles,” said the Rev. Jim Wallis, executive director and CEO of Sojourners, a progressive evangelical organization that addresses justice issues. “Neither side should try to win politi-
U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops: 1. Supports universal health coverage which protects the life and dignity of all, especially those who are poor and vulnerable. Because Catholic teaching insists that basic health care is a right and is essential to protect human life and dignity, genuine health care reform which protects human life and advances universal coverage is a moral imperative and urgent national priority. For us, universal coverage should be truly universal, assuring decent health care for all from conception to natural death. 2. Opposes any efforts to expand abortion funding, mandate abortion coverage, or endanger the conscience rights of health care providers and religious institutions. Longstanding and widely supported current policies on these issues must be preserved. We urge members of the House and Senate to take all steps necessary to oppose abortion funding, mandated abortion coverage or weakening of conscience rights. 3. Supports effective measures to safeguard the health of immigrants, their children and all of society by expanding eligibility for public programs, such as Medicaid, to all low-income families and vulnerable people and by offering adequate subsidies for cost-sharing of insurance premiums and out of pocket expenses. abortion out of health care reform have been defeated in committee, and it is now apparent that some leaders have every intention of threatening the health care reform process by forcing Americans to accept abortion mandates and/or fund unlimited abortion in their health coverage.”
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Catholic San Francisco
August 21, 2009
Catholic san Francisco Newspaper of the Archdiocese of San Francisco
Guest Commentary Push to ‘normalize’ abortion By Helen M. Alvaré You’ve likely heard details from many sources about abortion and current health care reform proposals. You may have read about what current proposals would do: abolish state limitations on abortion, and trample conscience rights of morally or religiously opposed medical professionals and institutions. You have also likely learned how it will do it: the appointment by the executive branch of a type of health care advisory committee composed of abortion advocates who will have decision-making authority about the package of services that will be deemed “necessary” health care and “essential benefits of coverage.” These are legal and political facts, and have not been refuted by the Obama administration or congressional supporters of current iterations of health care legislation. But there is another type of “information” about abortion that the President and his allies are seeking to convey via his current health care proposals. It is that abortion is no big deal. It is just one medical procedure among others, and nothing more. This clearly was the message behind President Obama’s admonition to Katie Couric when asked about including abortion in his proposed federal health care package. He replied: “[I]t’s appropriate for us to figure out how to just deliver on the cost savings and not get distracted by the abortion debate at this station.” In other words, the normalization of abortion is yet another terrible potential consequence of abortion-mandating health care legislation. Many are tempted to believe that abortion can’t really get any more normalized than it is now. After all, we’ve got more than a million every year right here in the U.S. We’ve got one out of four pregnancies aborted. How much more “banal” does it get? But abortion still is recognized as anything but banal. Much of the credit for this goes to pro-life activists whose relentless voices have kept the tragedy and injustice of abortion before even a fickle and easily-distracted public. There is also the role played by abortion itself, and by the sensibilities of women: while destroying a baby, abortion is also a way of destroying maternal psyches. Some women are brave enough to report this after the fact. In short, as against everything that the news and entertainment and academic and political establishments have thrown at the American public over the last 40 or so years, abortion remains outside the mainstream, outside broad respectability. Normalization is the Holy Grail of abortion advocates’ legal efforts, as may be chronicled in summary fashion. First they tried the legal construct of “privacy,” and achieved at least a semantic victory when six members of the U.S. Supreme Court decided in Roe v. Wade that the U.S. Constitution contained an (unwritten) guarantee of “privacy” broad enough to include the right to destroy the developing life of an unborn human being at any time throughout pregnancy and for any reason. But when (even “pro-choice”) law professors balked at this invention, and pro-lifers hit the streets and the airwaves for the next 36 years, carrying with them pictures of unborn human beings, this dispelled the idea that there was anything essentially American or essentially true about abortion being a “private” thing. There was also the trial balloon, launched years ago by now Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, claiming that the Constitution’s equal-protection clause contained an (unwritten) abortion mandate within it. She reiterated this position in her dissent from the 2007 Supreme Court opinion Gonzales v. Carhart (the partial-birth abortion case), claiming that without abortion on request, women would be cast backwards into pre-feminist oppression. But the very process of partial-birth abortion, looking like a baby-delivery-followed-by-a-killing, prevented the “equal protection” argument from gaining traction in that case, or elsewhere. Pro-life advocates have also prevented abortion’s normalization in medical settings. Their presence outside abortion clinics -– praying, singing, counseling, protesting –have made sure that the entire community knows that this “medical” building is not like all the others. The pro-life grass roots and their allies in Congress were also successful in preventing the American Council for Graduate Medical Education from mandating abortion training as just another essential element of med-school curricula in 1995. The Coats Amendment of that year banned health care institutions receiving state funds from treating abortion as such. At the United Nations, abortion advocates have tried to just “add abortion to the list” of services included within programs with innocuous names like “Safe Motherhood,” or “Reproductive Health.” But pro-life watchdogs usually sound the alarm, and often have the last word. Abortion advocates can call abortion a “distraction,” and foist it off to an unelected “advisory board.” But they can’t make abortion other than what it is. (As William Buckley once famously intoned: “The problem with abortion rights is abortion.”) And they don’t even try to claim that it’s anything other than the destruction of human life. Ultrasound, genetic technologies and other scientific advances have rendered that kind of talk impossible. Just as we have defeated other attempts to normalize abortion, we can defeat this one, which might be the granddaddy of them all. Helen M. Alvare, J.D., teaches law at George Mason University and is a Senior Fellow in Law at the Culture of Life Foundation, www.cultureoflife.org.
Weigel’s cafeteria In the Aug 7 issue, there were several letters defending George Weigel as the ultimate Catholic who accepted the teachings of the Church without question. One writer praised him for being a man who was trying to rein in those Catholics who “follow selectively only those tenets of the Church with which they agree and ignore the rest.” Another writer said that Weigel is “one of the most respected contemporary Catholic writers.” They all feel that he has no political agenda, just support of the Church. Perhaps they should read Weigel’s column in the July 7 edition of National Review online, in which he is critical of some papal encyclicals and praising of others according to their content, and suggests the people should highlight the parts of “Caritas in Veritate”, the latest encyclical from Pope Benedict. Those parts Mr. Weigel agrees with are marked in gold. Any parts about Justice and Peace would be done in red and then dismissed. Weigel abhors the suggestion that greed has caused poverty and that wealth should be redistributed to help those in need. Ah yes, a good Catholic man, Mr. Weigel, who never does what he accuses others of doing – selectively choosing which teachings of the Church he will accept. Denis Nolan Daly City
Francisco. I liked the layout and the pictures as well. Unfortunately, the final article did not include a correction I had sent separately: the reference to the “Saint Emilio” community should have been the “Sant Egidio Community.” I think it is worth noting the correction, because the Sant Egidio Community may be of some interest to readers. The website for the Sant Egidio Community is www.santegidio.org. Again, thank you for printing the article. You may have learned that our family will be moving to Guatemala in just a couple of weeks, to help expand the ministry of InnerChange among the poor in Central America. In our meeting last week with the Archbishop, he said he would very much appreciate if we could send an occasional article for the paper, which I would be happy to do. Deacon Nate Bacon San Francisco Editor’s note: Deacon Bacon can be reached at the following email address, nate.bacon@innerchange.org .
L E T T E R S
‘Sant Egidio Community’ Thank you very much for including my article in the Aug. 7 issue of Catholic San
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: healym@sfarchdiocese.org or visit our website at www.catholic-sf.org, Contact Us
Bridges, not walls
Thank you so much for publishing Deacon Nate Bacon’s sensitive and well-written meditation, “Toward a new Pentecost,” (CSF Aug. 7) on the symbolism inherent in the bridges within the Eternal City he loves and the Holy Spirit’s infusion in each of us of God’s fire to become bridge-builders of love and charity. So much of Catholic thought today seems slanted toward public apologetics – defending what we have – and so little to advancing God’s cause. Walls can be so strong that they become prisons. As Catholics, we need to take care that we do not become so afraid of the world that we build walls of fear to hide behind. Bridge-builders open new opportunities for exploration, in fact and in faith, and that can be fraught with risk. We are secure in the knowledge that the Holy Spirit will be with us always, in our Church the People of God, so I think the risk of building bridges is one Christ would want us to take. It is nice to know that we have people like Deacon Nate to remind us of the courage to do just that. John J. Murray Redwood City
August 21, 2009
Catholic San Francisco
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The Catholic Difference
Flannery O’Connor’s wingless chickens About two-thirds of the way through Brad Gooch’s highly acclaimed new book, “Flannery: A Life of Flannery O’Connor,” I got the gnawing feeling that something was missing—even as I admired Gooch’s storytelling about a brilliant writer of fiction who had once said, “...there won’t be any biographies of me because … lives spent between the house and the chicken yard do not make exciting copy.” That sense of the real absence hung with me until the end, at which point I looked into the index for “The Habit of Being” (the collection of Flannery O’Connor’s letters published in 1979), which contains page after page of her most effective apologetics on behalf of Catholicism. It wasn’t there. Gooch certainly knows “The Habit of Being,” for he mines O’Connor’s correspondence to paint interesting portraits of her friendships with, among others, Betty Hester (known in Habit as “A”) and Maryat Lee. But of O’Connor’s efforts to explain Catholicism and its unique optic on reality and contemporary culture, he gives us very little. True, Gooch argues that critics who think Flannery O’Connor was a terrific writer despite her Catholicism are off base. But he does seem to me to miss the passion of O’Connor’s belief, as well as the keen theological insight of this self-described “hillbilly Thomist.” For Flannery O’Connor, Catholicism was a way of seeing the world straight-on, without sentimentality. “There is nothing harder or less sentimental than Christian realism,” she once wrote, for at the heart of Christianity is God’s merciful love, the
unsentimental but cleansing love of the father who restores to his wayward, prodigal son the dignity of his sonship. Christian realism taught that good and evil are objective realities, not “opinions.” Thus Christian realism applied to fiction required a painstaking description of both good and evil, especially as they interact in typically messy human lives. This approach to the short story and the novel did not go down well everywhere. Flannery O’Connor understood why. Once, responding to a “moronic” New Yorker review of her now-famous story, “A Good Man Is Hard to Find,” she wrote Betty Hester that the review neatly demonstrated how “the moral sense has been bred out of certain sections of the population, like the wings have been bred off certain chickens to produce more white meat on them. This is a generation of wingless chickens, which I suppose is what Nietzsche meant when he said God was dead.” Modern culture’s insecure grasp on good and evil created a situation, O’Connor believed, in which people couldn’t get a grip on the truly horrible, which is sin and its effects in our lives. As she wrote to Betty Hester, “when I see [my] stories described as horror stories I am always amused because the reviewer always has hold of the wrong horror.” And the reviewer usually got “hold of the wrong horror” because the reviewer was the product of a culture in which “evil” had been psychologized away and the Evil One was, at best, a medieval fiction.
Flannery O’Connor’s relentless, faith-driven unsentimentality extended to the Church as well as to the world: “I think that the Church is the only thing that is going to make the terrible world we are comGeorge Weigel ing to endurable; the only thing that makes the Church endurable is that it is somehow the body of Christ and on this we are fed. It seems to be a fact that you have to suffer as much from the Church as for it...” And this, mind you, was written in 1955—to certain Catholic minds, the high water mark of Catholic life in these United States. One can only imagine what Flannery O’Connor would say today. O’Connor’s fiction is not to everyone’s taste. But her letters, and essays like “The Church and the Fiction Writer” and “The Catholic Novelist in the Protestant South” (both available in the Library of America edition of her collected works), display her talents as an apologist of honesty and genius. Gooch’s Flannery would have been a better book had he grappled with that facet of a remarkable life and a singular talent. George Weigel is Distinguished Senior Fellow of the Ethics and Public Policy Center in Washington, D.C.
Out Turn
Don’t move in with each other just yet Catholic teaching now has further research to back its unpopular guidelines that say couples had better hold off until after the wedding to share a roof. The study, published in the February issue of the Journal of Family Psychology, surveyed more than 1,000 married men and women between the ages of 18 and 34 who had been married 10 years or less. Here’s what lead researcher Galena Rhoades of the University of Denver and colleagues found out: Couples who move in with each other without a firm commitment to marriage often tie the knot after several months or a few years without having made a clear and conscious choice to commit themselves forever to the other person. They base their decision on other things in their relationship such as the cool living room set and the 40-inch plasma TV – not on the desire to grow old with the person snoring beside them. Sometimes more deliberation was spent on choosing the color and style of the bridesmaids’ dresses than on marriage itself and whether or not the commitment has sticking power. Ironically, the whole “try before you buy” logic doesn’t hold up in this study or in another one led by Rhodes. The latter was published in the February issue of the Journal of Family Issues and featured by senior writer Jeanna Bryner on LiveScience.com. Writes Bryner: “Those who listed ‘testing’ as the primary move-in reason were more likely than others to score
high on measures of negative communication such as ‘my partner criticizes or belittles my opinions, feelings or desires.’ Such testers also had lower confidence in the quality and stability of their relationships. “Overall, those who want to test the commitment might want to think again, according to the February study.” Why do as many as 70 percent of American couples move in with each other? More than 60 percent listed “spending more time together” as the top reason, followed by 19 percent who ranked financial savings as the primary objective. Only 14 percent said they wanted to test-drive the relationship. Of Rhodes’ 1,000 participants, 40 percent did not live together before getting married, 43 percent did and another 16 percent waited until they were engaged. Says Bryner of LiveScience: “Those who moved in with a mate before engagement or marriage reported significantly lower-quality marriages and a greater potential for split-ups than other couples. For instance, about 19 percent of those who cohabited before getting engaged had ever suggested divorce compared with just 12 percent of those who only moved in together after getting engaged and 10 percent of participants who did not cohabit prior to the wedding bells.” After reading these statistics I was curious about how the teaching arm of the Catholic Church has incorporated studies such as this one into its message to young adults.
I found the following item on USCCB’s Web site. Titled “Why Isn’t It Good to Lie Together Before Marriage?” it states in its conclusion: “Many young people ... want an intimate and enduring relationship Therese J. where they can share Borchard their deepest dreams and desires. In a misguided effort to achieve this intimacy, they often enter into a cohabiting relationship. In so doing, they undermine their chances of attaining the very thing they most want. “The Catholic Church understands this quest for intimacy, which God himself has placed within the human heart. Sexual expression is a means of achieving marital intimacy, where the spouses are committed to each other and to the marital relationship. “The Catholic Church has consistently taught this truth, and social science research now confirms it.” Therese J. Borchard is a widely published author and speaker. She writes a daily blog, “Beyond Blue, on www.beliefnet.com.
Consider This
Looking to a higher law The International Theological Commission, a prestigious Vatican group, released a document earlier this month on the natural law and ethical values common to all people. The commission members are appointed by the pope and serve in an advisory role to the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith. “In Search of a Universal Ethics: A New Look at Natural Law” received slight attention in this country, perhaps because the Vatican has so far published it only in French and Italian. Cindy Wooden of the Catholic News Service Rome bureau wrote an extensive article reporting that the commission said ethical concerns are increasingly important in a global world, with terrorism, the environment and biotechnology being international concerns with international repercussions. Traditional church teaching is that the natural law is impressed on the consciences of all by God and can be discovered by the use of human reason. Both emphasis on personal freedom and perceiving ethics to be cultural or religiously specific has worked against the belief that the natural law is natural and accessible to all, the commission said. The document touched on one point that resonates
particularly at this time in the United States. The commission said that relying on legislated laws, rather than the natural law, “opens the way to the arbitrariness of power, the dictatorship of the numerical majority and to ideological manipulation to the detriment of the common good.” That which the majority can vote in it can vote out. Consider this: What are we seeking in terms of abortion in this country? If the goal is to have abortions not happen, then is civil law the best tactic? If the Supreme Court should totally overturn Roe v. Wade and similar decisions, states once again would be able to legislate the legality of abortion. Some states would ban it, others would not. Legislation would be challenged in the courts interminably. Chances are slim that Congress will ban abortion, even if so permitted by the courts. But instead, what if Congress passed a formal statement strongly approving the right to life as a policy of the United States and stating equally strong disapproval of abortion, euthanasia and other attacks on life? It would be a strongly worded statement, one that would not deal with illegality or penalty. The commission said the case for universal moral values
has been weakened by the view that the natural law is do’s and don’ts rather than principles for the protection of human dignity and promotion of the common good. Natural law is not a Catholic thing, although Stephen Kent the Church has been among its strongest proponents through the centuries. Given a statement of national policy, then should we not direct our efforts to advocacy and defense of the natural law and all that it means? The goal would be to make it so obvious that violations of the right to life wouldn’t be attempted. The ultimate goal is not to pass a law. We already have a law – the natural law. The dignity and protection it provides is far above that which can be affected by legislation. The focus should be to model proper behavior and convince society at the higher level of principle to recognize laws in the heart, not on the books.
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Catholic San Francisco
August 21, 2009
Twenty-First Sunday in Ordinary Time
Scripture reflection
Joshua 24:1-2a, 15-17, 18b; Psalm 34:2-3, 16-17, 18-19, 20-21; Ephesians 5:21-32; John 6:60-69 A READING FROM THE BOOK OF JOSHUA JOS 24:1-2A, 15-17, 18B Joshua gathered together all the tribes of Israel at Shechem, summoning their elders, their leaders, their judges, and their officers. When they stood in ranks before God, Joshua addressed all the people: “If it does not please you to serve the Lord, decide today whom you will serve, the gods your fathers served beyond the River or the gods of the Amorites in whose country you are now dwelling. As for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.” But the people answered, “Far be it from us to forsake the Lord for the service of other gods. For it was the Lord, our God, who brought us and our fathers up out of the land of Egypt, out of a state of slavery. He performed those great miracles before our very eyes and protected us along our entire journey and among the peoples through whom we passed. Therefore we also will serve the Lord, for he is our God.” RESPONSORIAL PSALM PS 34:2-3, 16-17, 18-19, 20-21 R. Taste and see the goodness of the Lord. I will bless the Lord at all times; his praise shall be ever in my mouth. Let my soul glory in the Lord; the lowly will hear me and be glad. R. Taste and see the goodness of the Lord. The Lord has eyes for the just, and ears for their cry. The Lord confronts the evildoers, to destroy remembrance of them from the earth. R. Taste and see the goodness of the Lord. When the just cry out, the Lord hears them, and from all their distress he rescues them. The Lord is close to the brokenhearted; and those who are crushed in spirit he saves. R. Taste and see the goodness of the Lord. Many are the troubles of the just one, but out of them all the Lord delivers him; he watches over all his bones; not one of them shall be broken. R. Taste and see the goodness of the Lord. A READING FROM THE LETTER OF PAUL TO THE EPHESIANS EPH 5:21-32 Brothers and sisters: Be subordinate to one another out of reverence for Christ. Wives should be subordinate to their husbands as to the Lord. For the husband is head of his wife just as Christ is head of the church, he himself the savior of the body. As the church is subordinate to Christ, so wives
FATHER BILL NICHOLAS
should be subordinate to their husbands in everything. Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ loved the church and handed himself over for her to sanctify her, cleansEvery three years, on the 21st Sunday of ing her by the bath of water with the word, Ordinary Time, we hear in the Mass a reading that he might present to himself the church from St. Paul that is arguably the most provocin splendor, without ative biblical passage. spot or wrinkle or Is it any coincidence any such thing, that that it is followed she might be holy by a Gospel reading and without blemin which Jesus asks, ish. So also husin arguably the bigbands should love gest liturgical undertheir wives as their statement, “does this own bodies. He who [saying] shock you?” loves his wife loves (John 6:61). himself. For no one The infamous hates his own flesh “wives be subordinate but rather nourishes to your husbands” and cherishes it, passage is perhaps even as Christ does every preacher’s the church, because greatest nightmare, as we are members of it inevitably distracts his body. For this from the conclusion reason a man shall of our five-week leave his father and reading of John 6 (the his mother and be Eucharistic chapter of joined to his wife, John’s Gospel) with and the two shall a teaching that stirs become one flesh. great discomfort in This is a great mysour modern, polititery, but I speak in cally correct sensireference to Christ Miracle at Cana tivities. and the church. Jesus faced this kind of reaction when he taught his followers to “eat the flesh of the A READING FROM THE GOSPEL Son of Man and drink his blood” (John 6:53). ACCORDING TO JOHN Misinterpreting this assertion as an invitation JN 6:60-69 Many of Jesus’ disciples who were listen- to veritable cannibalism (John 6:52), many of ing said, “This saying is hard; who can accept His angry, scandalized followers reacted by it?” Since Jesus knew that his disciples were simply abandoning Jesus (John 6:66), leaving murmuring about this, he said to them, “Does only the Twelve as his ardent followers (John this shock you? What if you were to see 6:67-69). As people who regularly receive the Son of Man ascending to where he was Christ’s Flesh and Blood in the Eucharist, we before? It is the spirit that gives life, while the have come to understand and embrace this flesh is of no avail. The words I have spoken once scandalous and provocative teaching. Perhaps Paul, too, faced a similar reaction to to you are Spirit and life. But there are some of you who do not believe.” Jesus knew from his writing from those who first read the letter to the beginning the ones who would not believe the Ephesians so long ago, but possibly for oppoand the one who would betray him. And he site reasons from today. At a time when women said, “For this reason I have told you that no were considered second-class citizens in a male one can come to me unless it is granted him dominated society, and wives were considered part of a man’s property, hence their submission, by my Father.” As a result of this, many of his disciples it would have been radical, to say the least, to returned to their former way of life and no propose that husbands must “love [their] wives longer accompanied him. Jesus then said to the as Christ loved the Church” (Eph 5:25a). In Twelve, “Do you also want to leave?” Simon remembering that Christ “handed himself over Peter answered him, “Master, to whom shall for her” (Eph 5:25b), Paul’s instruction is nothwe go? You have the words of eternal life. We ing less than an expectation that a husband’s have come to believe and are convinced that obligation to his wife (socially considered as property) is to give his very life for her. you are the Holy One of God.”
Paul’s revolutionary concept In this passage, Paul presents his revolutionary teaching on the tradition of marriage, not as a social institution designed to provide insurance, inheritance and financial benefits between husband and wife; not merely as “a piece of paper” documenting a contractual agreement between parties; not as a mere word whose definition can change with the prevailing moral wind of the time; and certainly not as socio-political affirmation for a particular lifestyle, but as a divine institution that symbolizes the intimate love between Christ and His Bride, the Church. It would appear, therefore, in our modern, feminist laden world, that this teaching has not changed. While wives are no longer considered to be the property of a husband, but an equal partner – a value that grows right out of the Christian teaching on marriage – Paul continues to call on husbands to “give [themselves] up” for their wives, “even as Christ loved the church and handed himself over for her” (Eph 5:25b). One could still argue for the sexual inequality of the passage in that while husbands must give their lives, submission is all that is required of the wife, (sexist?) until the very first line of the passage is taken into consideration, a passage that underlies this entire teaching, and in fact, all of Christian human relations – “Be subordinate to one another out of reverence for Christ” (Eph 5:21). No one dominates anyone; no one is superior to anyone. Rather all, being equal before God, are called to mutual respect, submission and subordination out of deference to our respect, submission and subordination to Christ. In this teaching of Christian and marital mutuality we can see husbands being subordinate to wives; we can see wives loving husbands “even as Christ loved the Church,” with no social values, be they ancient or modern, feminist or chauvinist, liberal or conservative, distracting us from the basic teaching that encompasses all of Christianity – “Love one another as I have loved you” (John 15:12). All that said, we return to the simple question posed by Jesus as he faces his skeptics in the Gospel – “Does this shock you?” Perhaps our response to Christ should be – “Why should it? You have the words of everlasting life.” Father William Nicholas is parochial vicar at Our Lady of Loretto Parish in Novato. Visit his website at www.frwcnicholas.com.
Spirituality for Life
The Eucharist as a call to ‘Justice’ When the famous historian Christopher Dawson decided to become a Roman Catholic, his aristocratic mother was distressed, not because she had any aversion to Catholic dogma, but because now her son would, in her words, have to “worship with the help.” She was painfully aware that, in church at least, his aristocratic background would no longer set him apart from others or above anyone. At church he would be just an equal among equals because the Eucharist would strip him of his higher social status. She intuited correctly. The Eucharist, among other things, calls us to justice, to disregard the distinction between rich and poor, noble and peasant, aristocrat and servant, both around the Eucharist table itself and afterwards outside of the church. The Eucharist fulfills what Mary prophesized when she was pregnant with Jesus, namely, that, in Jesus, the mighty would be brought down and that lowly would be raised up. It was this very thing that first drew Dorothy Day to Christianity. She noticed that, at
the Eucharist, the rich and the poor knelt side by side, all equal at that moment. Sadly, we often don’t take this dimension of the Eucharist seriously. There is a common tendency to think that the practice of justice, especially social justice, is an optional part of being a Christian, something mandated by political correctness rather than by the gospels. Generally we don’t see the call to actively reach out to the poor as something from which we cannot exempt ourselves. But we are wrong in this. In the gospels and in the Christian scriptures in general, the call to reach out to the poor and to help create justice in the world is as non-negotiable as keeping the commandments and going to church. Indeed striving for justice must be part of all authentic worship. In the New Testament, every tenth line is a direct challenge to reach out to the poor. In Luke’s gospel, we find this in every sixth line. In the Epistle of James, this occurs in every fifth line.
The challenge to reach out to the poor and to level the distinction between rich and poor is an integral and non-negotiable part of being a Christian, commanded as strongly as any of the commandments. And this challenge is Father contained in the Eucharist Ron Rolheiser itself: The Eucharistic table calls us to justice, to reach out to the poor. How? First, by definition, the Eucharistic table is a table of social non-distinction, a place where men and women, the rich and the poor, all are called to be together beyond all class and status. SPIRITUALITY FOR LLIFE, page 15
August 21, 2009
Spirituality for Life . . . n Continued from page 14
At the Eucharist there are to be no rich and no poor, only one equal family praying together in a common humanity. In baptism we are all made equal and for that reason there are no separate worship services for the rich and the poor. Moreover, St. Paul warns us strongly that when we gather for the Eucharist the rich should not receive preferential treatment. Indeed, the gospels invite us in the opposite direction. When you hold any banquet, they tell us, we should give preferential treatment to the poor. This is especially true for the Eucharist. The poor should be welcomed in a special way. Why? Because, among other things, the Eucharist commemorates Jesus’ brokenness, his poverty, his body being broken and his blood being poured out. Pierre Teilhard de Chardin expresses this aptly when he suggests that the wine offered at the Eucharist symbolizes precisely the brokenness of the poor: In a sense the true substance to be consecrated each day is the world’s development during that day – the bread symbolizing appropriately what creation succeeds in producing, the wine (blood) what creation causes to be lost in exhaustion and suffering in the course of
that effort. The Eucharist offers up the tears and blood of the poor and invites us to help alleviate the conditions that produce tears and blood. And we do that, as a famous church hymn says, by moving “from worship into service.” We don’t go to the Eucharist only to worship God by expressing our faith and devotion. The Eucharist is not a private devotional prayer, but is rather a communal act of worship which, among other things, calls us to go forth and live out in the world what we celebrate inside of a church, namely, the non-importance of social distinction, the special place that God gives to the tears and blood of the poor, and challenge from God to each of us to work at changing the conditions that cause tears and blood. The Eucharist calls us to love tenderly, but, just as strongly, it calls us to act in justice. To say that Eucharist calls us to justice and to social justice is not a statement that takes its origin in political correctness. It takes its origin in Jesus who, drawing upon the great prophets of old, assures us that the validity of all worship will ultimately be judged by how it affects “widows, orphans, and strangers.” Oblate Father Ron Rolheiser, theologian, teacher, and award winning author, is President of the Oblate School of Theology in San Antonio, TX.
Catholic San Francisco
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Catholic San Francisco
August 21, 2009
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Catholic jurist examines change, growth in moral theology of the Church “A CHURCH THAT CAN AND CANNOT CHANGE: THE DEVELOPMENT OF CATHOLIC MORAL TEACHING” by John T. Noonan, Jr. University of Notre Dame Press (Notre Dame, Ind. 2005). 312 pp. $21.00
By Father Basil De Pinto Judge Noonan’s book first appeared in 2005; this welcome paperback will make it available to an expanded readership. For a distinguished jurist to have as well an authoritative voice in moral theology is less common in the west than in the Orthodox churches. It is refreshing to find these two aspects of scholarship joined in this important book. Noonan deals, clearly and substantively, with a number of issues that evolved over time in the teaching of the Church. He sets out established historical facts, makes careful judgments, and suggests that what has happened before can certainly happen again. On December 7, 1965, during the Second Vatican Council, Pope Paul VI promulgated Gaudium et spes, the “Pastoral Constitution on the Church in the Modern World.” In the course of this document the Church categorically condemned slavery, associating it with homicide and genocide. This was the first time in history that the Church had declared slavery to be intrinsically evil. Indeed there is no condemnation of slavery in the Bible. The ancient Israelites owned slaves; Jesus nowhere
condemns this established social convention. St. Paul writes to a Christian slave owner, exhorting him to treat his slave as a fellow Christian; he does not suggest emancipation of the slave. Slavery persisted throughout the history of the Church; Noonan carefully documents the slave-holding practices of popes and religious orders. What accounts for this sudden change after centuries of acceptance? In our time the notion of the development of doctrine is usually associated with Cardinal Newman but the phenomenon in itself has always existed, even in Scripture. Hebrew monotheism formed only gradually; the fourth gospel makes statements about Jesus quite different from the teaching of the other three. To think that the Church could change is unsettling for many minds. Noonan sug-gests that it should be neither exaggeratedd nor denied. In the Middle Ages it was a sinn for Catholics to charge interest on money loaned. That changed in the course of the economic development in which the Church participated as a social entity. Marriage is considered indissoluble, but popes have long claimed a “Petrine” privilege by which they can dissolve a valid marriage, in favor of the faith (one of the parties is baptized). This in no way undercuts the basic contention that marriage is indissoluble, but it
does indicate a development in understanding the nature of marriage based on the experiences of Christians in a non-Christian world. Noonan presents all this within a framework of complete adherence to the authority of the Church. He is anything but auth revolutionary in his thinking or its presenrevo tation, tatio but he is relentlessly thorough in his examination of evidence and in deducing exa its logical consequences. Nothing here is opposed to established teaching, but it o will wi be revealing and heartening to those who wh look to the Church not only as lawgiver gi but as shepherd of souls as well. Perhaps the most salient feature of Noonan’s thought, again in line with N a fundamental vision of Vatican II, is that although precedent is primary in t the Church’s outlook on law, moral doctrine, like every human reality, grows and develops through contact with experience. Of the many scriptural references Noonan uses there is one which he does not quote and which perhaps best sums up what he is saying: “And Jesus grew, and was filled with wisdom, and the grace of God was in him.” (Luke 2:52) Bay Area priest Father Basil De Pinto is a frequent contributor on the arts.
‘Which Way Home’ looks at tragic phenomenon, Aug. 24 on HBO By John Mulderig NEW YORK (CNS) – Of all the undocumented migrants trying to enter the United States each year, about five percent are children traveling alone. The perils they face and the widespread social ills that motivate them are captured in the documentary “Which Way Home.” Filmmaker Rebecca Cammisa’s deeply moving, sometimes heart-rending account premieres on the HBO pay-cable service Monday, Aug. 24, 9-10:30 p.m. EDT. The starting point for some of the youngsters Cammisa profiles is the boundary between Guatemala and Mexico, 1,450 miles south of U.S. territory. There, they surreptitiously climb aboard freight trains, hiding inside the boxcars or perching on top. In addition to the dangers inherent in this illegal but common means of travel – falling asleep for even a moment could mean falling off and
Youths make a difficultGALA journeyAUCTION to America EVENTS as stowaways on a train in the HBO documentary “Which Way Home,” airing Aug. 24.
SCRIPTURE SEARCH Gospel for August 23, 2009 John 6:60-69
GALA AUCTION EVENTS
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Following is a word search based on the Gospel st reading for the 21 Sunday in Ordinary Time, Cycle B: the story about how some chose to leave Jesus. The words can be found in all directions in the puzzle. DISCIPLES TO SEE SPIRIT WORDS DO NOT GRANTED SHALL WE GO
SAYING ASCENDING GIVES LIFE SPOKEN BETRAY SIMON PETER ETERNAL
being dragged under the wheels – the youngsters face exploitation by corrupt officials and, farther along, by the greedy smugglers they have to rely on to guide them across the desert. Such abuse ranges from robbery and beatings to rape. One teenage traveler tells of his solitary, aimless life on the streets of his native city and the despair that has pushed him into drug addiction. A companion dreams of being adopted by an American family, and says he wants to cross the border “to be born again.” The pain of separation from their families is a frequent topic, as when a 9-year-old girl breaks into tears when she mentions the sisters she had to leave behind. And expressions of Catholic piety are heard constantly, from the young people and their relatives, as well as from some of the adults who try to assist and protect them. This humane and valuable examination of a tragic phenomenon qualifies as adult fare.
JESUS BEFORE FLESH SOME OF YOU NO ONE TO WHOM HOLY ONE
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© 2009 Tri-C-A Publications www.tri-c-a-publications.com
Sponsored by DUGGAN’S SERRA MORTUARY 500 Westlake Avenue, Daly City 650-756-4500 ● www.duggansserra.com
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August 21, 2009
Year for Priests Events Sept. 18, 6 p.m.: St. Patrick’s Seminary and University Gala 2009 honoring Most Reverend William J. Justice, Auxiliary Bishop of San Francisco at Cathedral of St. Mary of the Assumption, Gough and Geary Blvd. in San Francisco. Tickets at $150 each include hosted cocktail reception Bishop William and dinner. Evening also J. Justice features a silent wine and art auction as well as a live auction. Black tie is optional. Proceeds benefit seminary programs. Call (650) 289-3321 for information or to purchase tickets.
Catholic Charismatic Renewal Sept. 18 – 20: “It is Mercy I Desire,” the 2009 Holy Spirit Conference sponsored by the Charismatic Renewal of the Archdiocese of San Francisco. Guest speakers and presiders include San Francisco Auxiliary Bishop William J. Justice, Father Dan Nascimento, pastor, St. Brendan Parish in San Francisco; Father Peter Sanders of Monterey and others. Tracks are available in English, Spanish and Vietnamese as well as sessions for youth. Masses daily - Friday, 7 p.m.; Saturday 11:30 a.m.; Sunday 2 p.m. Tickets are $35 for all weekend sessions or $25 per day. Youth tickets at $10 include lunch. The event takes place at Archbishop Riordan High School, 175 Phelan Ave. across from SF City College in San Francisco. Call for information: English (415) 467-2099 Hispanic (415) 297-1709 Youth (415) 350-8677 Vietnamese (408) 661-6751and Visit www.sfspirit.com. Aug. 23, 11:30 a.m.: Mass commemorating 50th anniversary of priesthood for retired San Francisco Auxiliary Bishop Ignatius Wang at Holy Name of Jesus Church, 39th Ave. at Lawton in San Francisco. Reception follows Bishop immediately in Holy Name’s Flanagan Ignatius Wang Center. The event is open to all friends of Holy Name and there is no cost to attend, the parish said. Contact Holy Name Parish at (415) 664-8590.
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H. Niederauer will preside with Msgr. Floro Arcamo, pastor, among the concelebrants. Reception and rededication rites follow the liturgy. Call (415) 221— 3399 or e-mail alumni@staroftheseasf.com.
Datebook
Vallombrosa Retreat Center 250 Oak Grove Ave. in Menlo Park. Call (650) 325-5614 or visit www.vallombrosa.org Aug. 28 – 30: Weekend Retreat for Families and Friends of Alcoholics with Jesuit Father Tom Weston, an active member of the recovery community and a well-known retreat director. Sessions look at the tools and treasures of Al-Anon with prayer, conversation, quite and sharing.
Arts & Entertainment Aug. 30, 12:30 p.m.: Organ concert by Father Paul Perry at St. Sebastian Church, Sir Francis Drake Blvd. at Bon Air Rd. in Kentfield. Program includes works by Bach, Purvis and others. Free admission.
St. Mary’s Cathedral Gough and Geary Blvd, San Francisco. Call (415) 567-2020 Aug. 25, 7 p.m.: Jesuit Father Peter Milward speaks on the Catholic Shakespeare at St. Mary’s Cathedral Conference Center, Gough and Geary St. in San Francisco. Topics include Marian heroines in the writer’s plays and the Ignatian Spiritual Exercises as they relate to the plays. Free admission. Contact: campanaa@yahoo.com; patricia_inez@yahoo.com or call (415) 680-8934. Aug. 26, 10:30 a.m. – noon: Grief Workshop with Barbara Elordi, director, Grief Care Ministry, at St. Mary’s Cathedral Conference Center’s Msgr. Bowe Room. Contact Sister Ester McEgan at (415) 5672020, ext. 218. Oct. 1 – 4: The annual Cathedral Festival of Flowers will highlight a group of fantastic floral designers from Europe who are coming to San Francisco specifically to work on this event. The opening gala (Thursday, October 1) will feature the designs of the professional designers in the Cathedral proper as well as the Cathedral Treasures exhibit and the Little Flower Festival with arrangements from amateur designers in our local parishes. On Friday and Saturday there will be several workshops and flower arranging demonstrations offered throughout the day. The Festival will end on Sunday afternoon (4 p.m.) as the annual Choral Festival concert will take place in the Cathedral. Visit the Festival’s website: www.cathedralflowers.org/
Catholic San Francisco
Special Liturgies
Donors tripped the light the fantastic to the tune of $44,000 at Seton Medical Center Foundation’s annual “Let’s Have a Ball” fundraiser. The hospital’s Infusion Center and charity care are beneficiaries of the good will. Cheryl Burke of “Dancing with the Stars” fame hosted the event at her local dance studios. Daughters of Charity Sister Eileen Kenny and Sister William Eileen Dunn, share a break from the hoofing with their celebrity host.
Good Health Aug. 26, 2:30 p.m.: Current Advances in Wound Care with Dr. David Young will present on advances in wound treatment options for both chronic and acute wounds including pressure ulcers, diabetic ulcers, radiation wounds, varicose veins and more. Classes include Q and A sessions and refreshments. Both take place at St. Mary’s Medical Center, Cafeteria Level B, 450 Stanyan St. at Fulton in San Francisco. Free admission but please register at (415)750-4991. Parking is available at a reduced rate in the St. Mary’s parking garage. Served by Muni 5, 21 and 33. Aug. 30, 2 – 5 p.m.: Colorectal Cancer Awareness, a free symposium at St. Augustine Parish Hall, 3700 Callan Blvd. in South San Francisco. Talks cover diagnosis, treatments, and additional aspects of the condition. Call Nelia Chang, RN at (650) 991-6023 or (650) 878-9463 for more information. Sponsored by Seton Medical Center and St. Augustine Parish.
Pauline Books and Media Daughters of St. Paul, 2640 Broadway, Redwood City (650) 369-4230 - Visit www.pauline.org Sept. 9 and Second Wednesday of the Month, 7 p.m.: Catholic Fiction Book Club. Delve into some of the greatest Catholic novels of our times and times past. Discover the beauty of the written word and the power of literature to nourish faith. Discuss various works of Catholic literature and how their timeless themes relate to our own lives. Sept. 9, “Exiles” by Ron Hansen; Oct. 14, “A Thread of Grace” by Mary Doria Russell; Nov. 11, “Helena” by Evelyn Waugh
Trainings/Lectures/Respect Life Sept. 12, 8:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.: Be an Angel with The Gabriel Project, a revitalized program for volunteers and pastors embracing “each pregnant woman who comes to them.” Guest speaker is Cathy Conn, founder of Gabriel Project, Houston, who will train attendees “in every aspect of this important ministry” and how to implement it as a parish-wide effort. According to Gabriel Project information when a pregnant woman calls for help, a line of assistance, including a parish coordinator, a trained mentor who remains as a resource throughout the pregnancy, and the parish community, providing
spiritual, material and emotional support, goes into motion. Sessions take place at St. Mary’s Cathedral, Gough and Geary Blvd. in San Francisco. Cost, including lunch and continental breakfast, is $20 per person with scholarships available. To register, inquire about scholarships, or get more information, contact Vicki Evans at (415) 614-5533 or evansv@ sfarchdiocese.org by Sept. 8. Sept. 19, 11 a.m.: A memorial Mass for children who died before, during or after birth at Holy Cross Cemetery in Colma. San Francisco Auxiliary Bishop William Justice will be principal celebrant. The bilingual liturgy takes place outdoors at the cemetery’s Rachel Shrine. The Mass is sponsored by Project Rachel Ministry of the Archdiocese of San Francisco and the cemetery department. Project Rachel is a post-abortion healing ministry for men and women. The Mass is for anyone who has lost a child. Lunch is served following the Mass. For more information, call (415) 717-6428 or (415) 614-5572. Sept, 23, 24, 7 p.m.: Father Robert Barron, Francis Cardinal George Chair of Faith and Culture at University of St. Mary of the Lake/Mundelein Seminary and a priest of the Archdiocese of Chicago, speaks Sept. 23 at Marin Catholic High School, 75 Sir Francis Drake Blvd. in Kentfield, and Sept. 24 at St. Dominic Church, 2390 Bush St. at Steiner in San Francisco. His topic will address filling the voids in one’s life. No registration necessary. Event is sponsored by Immaculate Heart Radio and California Catholic Women’s Forum. Visit www. wordonfire.org. Saturdays: San Mateo Pro-Life prays the rosary at Planned Parenthood, 2211 Palm Ave. in San Mateo at 8 a.m. and invites others to join them at the site. The prayer continues as a peaceful vigil until 1 p.m. The group is also open to new membership. Meetings are held the second Thursday of the month except August and December at St. Gregory Parish’s Worner Center, 138 28th Ave. in San Mateo at 7:30 p.m. For more information, call Jessica at (650) 572-1468.
Reunions Sept. 6, 12:15 p.m.: Centennial Mass commemorating first century of Star of the Sea Elementary School and its now closed sister-school, Star of the Sea Academy, at Star of the Sea Church, 8th Ave. at Geary Blvd. in San Francisco. Archbishop George
Sept. 5, 11 a.m.: First Saturday Mass at Holy Cross Cemetery, Colma, All Saints Mausoleum Chapel. Call (650) 756-2060 or visit www.holycrosscemeteries.com. Sept. 6, 12:15 p.m.: Centennial Mass commemorating first century of Star of the Sea Elementary School and its now closed sister-school, Star of the Sea Academy, at Star of the Sea Church, 8th Ave. at Geary Blvd. in San Francisco. Archbishop George H. Niederauer will preside with Msgr. Floro Arcamo, pastor, among the concelebrants. Reception and rededication rites follow the liturgy. Call (415) 221— 3399 or e-mail alumni@staroftheseasf.com. The Tridentine Mass is celebrated Sundays at 12:15 p.m. at Holy Rosary Chapel at St. Vincent School for Boys. For more information, call St. Isabella Parish at (415) 479-1560. First Fridays: Latin High Mass of the Sacred Heart of Jesus at 6 p.m. at St. Francis of Assisi Church, 1425 Bay Road at Glen Way, East Palo Alto. Mass is followed by the Litany of the Sacred Heart and Exposition of the Most Blessed Sacrament until midnight. Confessions are heard before Mass. Low Mass in Latin is offered every Friday evening at 6 p.m. For further information, call (650) 322-2152. First Sundays at 6:30 p.m. at Mater Dolorosa Parish, 307 Willow at Miller in South San Francisco. For more information, call Ando Perlas at (650) 892-5728.
Food & Fun Sept. 5, 7 a.m.: Catholic Marin Breakfast Club meets at St. Sebastian Church, Sir Francis Drake Blvd. and Bon Air Rd. in Greenbrae for Mass with breakfast and talk following. Guest speaker is newly ordained Father Joseph Previtali, now assigned to St. Veronica Parish in South san Francisco. Members breakfast $7/visitors $10. Call (415) 461-0704 weekdays or email sugaremy@aol.com Sept. 26, 6 – 10 p.m.: Aloha, an evening at St. Thomas More School, 1300 Junipero Serra Blvd. off Brotherhood Way in San Francisco, featuring the best of Hawaii - Roast Pig and a Polynesian dinner show. Tickets are $25 for adults and $10 for children 6-12 years old. No-host bar. Proceeds benefit the school. Call (415) 452-9634. Sept. 27, 9 a.m. – 7 p.m.: International Food, Music and Dance Festival at St. Thomas More School, 1300 Junipero Serra Blvd. off Brotherhood Way in San Francisco, featuring unique ethnic cuisine and entertainment. Food and beverages will be available for purchase. Admission is $3 per person. Proceeds benefit the school. Call (415) 452-9634.
Datebook is a free listing for parishes, schools and non-profit groups. Please include event name, time, date, place, address and an information phone number. Listing must reach Catholic San Francisco at least two weeks before the Friday publication date desired. Mail your notice to: Datebook, Catholic San Francisco, One Peter Yorke Way, S.F. 94109, or fax it to (415) 614-5633, e-mail burket@sfarchdiocese.org, or visit www.catholic-sf.org, Contact Us.
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August 21, 2009
‘Ponyo’ – enchanting celebration of childhood innocence and wonder By John Mulderig NEW YORK (CNS) – An unabashed celebration of the innocence and wonder of childhood, as well as of the imaginative possibilities that can endure well beyond it, “Ponyo” (Disney) is a treat for youthful spirits of every age. This enchanting English-language version of a Japanese animated fable, inspired by Hans Christian Anderson’s “The Little Mermaid,” was originally written and directed by Hayao Miyazaki, a recognized master of the genre. As adapted by directors John Lasseter, Brad Lewis and Peter Sohn, the mythic tale is set in motion when a determined little goldfish named Ponyo (voice of Noah Cyrus, sister of actresssinger Miley Cyrus) decides to escape the underwater realm of her domineering father, Fujimoto (voice of Liam Neeson) – a half-human wizard embittered against his fellow human beings by their abuse of nature – to explore the world beyond. Reaching shore, she comes under the protection of Sosuke (voice of the Jonas Brothers’ younger sibling Frankie Jonas), a
plucky, affectionate 5-year-old boy. With his father Koichi (voice of Matt Damon), a merchant sailor often away at sea, Sosuke
is used to providing moral support to his lonely mother Lisa (voice of Tina Fey). He’s also a favorite with the residents of the nursing home where Lisa works, a trio of them voiced by Cloris Leachman, Lily Tomlin and Betty White. Sosuke and Ponyo bond immediately. But, with Fujimoto resolved to use his supernatural powers to reclaim his daughter, Sosuke’s love for her will be put to the test in a series of adventures, both before and after Ponyo’s mysterious transformation into a little girl. Japanese cultural elements incorporated into the story – the script was adapted by Melissa Mathison – include brief scenes of Shinto prayer and the divine status of Ponyo’s mother, Gran Mamare (voice of Cate Blanchett), identified in English as the “goddess of the sea.” But the underlying moral messages, such as the repeated admonition to judge by substance rather than appearance and a deftly delivered warning against environmental carelessness, are universal.
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Construction MORROW CONTRUCTION Specializing In Wood Fences
(650)lic.994-6892 343633
Excellent services to fit your needs by caring individuals who have many years experience assisting elderly patients in diverse cases. Our rates are reasonable and competitive.
35 Years in San Mateo County 25 Years Experience Caring for Elderly We provide Live-In; Live-Out; Daily; Weekly; Long-Term; Short-Term
Repair
The Irish Rose
Lic #376353
Home Healthcare Agency
Painting, roof repair, fence (repair/ build) demolition, carpenter, gutter (clean/ repair), kitchen/bathroom remodel, decks, welding, landscaping, gardening, hauling, moving, janitorial.
Call (650) 757-1946 Cell (415) 517-5977
CAHALAN CONST.
NOT A LICENSED CONTRACTOR
Foundations, Earthquake Dryrot, Termite, Siding, Stucco
Green Handyman
Additions. Remodels lic# 582766
415.279.1266
Auto Service
-Kitchen/Bath Remodel -Insulation/Weatherization -General Home Repair -
HABELT’S AUTO SERVICE
Complete Auto Repair
415-664-1735
Serving Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish for over 25 years
650.355.1277
Painting & Remodeling
Carpet Cleaning Safe Non-Toxic, No Shampoo, Dry in Hours not Days
•Interiors •Exteriors •Kitchens •Baths
Commercial & Residential Serving SF & San Mateo Co. St. Charles Parishioner
Contractor inspection reports and pre-purchase consulting
Caring for the Elderly
Lifetime Warranty All New Doors/Motors
One Price 24 /7
415-931-1540 0% Financing Available
CA Lic#927761 Bonded/Insured Tim@green-handyman.com
Removal of challenging trees Fully licensed and insured Fine Pruning Certified arborist 24 Hr. emergency service WC 5304 Insurance work
painting and remodeling
Celtic Home Care
650-515-1419
Tree Care
3865 Irving St. at 40th Ave. – Since 1964 –
(650) 593-5959
Maintenance Services
415.637.3405 415.425.8609
GARIBALDI MAINTENANCE CO. Complete Janitorial – Window Cleaning Quality Service Since 1946
Serving SF & Bay Area
“Large Enough to Matter, Small Enough to Care”
Painting
S.O.S. PAINTING CO. Interior-Exterior wallpaper hanging & removal Lic # 526818 Senior Discount
415-269-0446 650-738-9295
www.sospainting.net FREE ESTIMATES
Broken Spring/Cable? Operator Problems?
LAST-MINUTE SERVICE AVAILABLE
Handy Man
Senior Care Elderly Care IN HOME CARE FOR SENIORS
Garage Door
Contact: 415.447.8463
PAUL (415) 282-2023
(650) 355-4926
• Family • Work • Relationships • Depression • Anxiety • Addictions
Healthcare Agency Garage Door Repair Discount
Serving San Francisco, Marin & the Peninsula.
FREE ESTIMATES! • Fast & Affordable
Ca. Lic 391053 General Contractor Since 1980
vm: 650-286-7547 • bus: 650-367-7327 cell: 650-834-7227 • e-mail: ebw8bion@yahoo.com
Specializing in home health aides, attendants and companions.
Lic. C-10 (631209)
John Holtz
When Life Hurts It Helps To Talk
LIC.# 39702
(415) 786-0121 • (415) 586-6748
➤ Hauling ➤ Job Site Clean-Up ➤ Demolition ➤ Yard Service ➤ Garbage Runs ➤ Saturday & Sunday
For all your electrical needs!
Counseling Unhealed wounds can hold you back - even if they are not the “logical” cause of your problems today. You can be the person God intended.
Hauling
DEWITT ELECTRIC
NOTICE
FREE ESTIMATES (415) 441-2454 www.garibaldimaintenance.com
Fully Insured
Painting BILL HEFFERON
PAINTING INTERIOR, EXTERIOR All Jobs Large and Small
10% Discount: Seniors, Parishioners Call Bill 415.731.8065 • Cell: 415.710.0584 Member of Better Business Bureau Bonded, Insured – LIC. #819191
TO
READERS
Licensed contractors are required by law to list their license numbers in advertisments. The law also state that contractors performing work totaling $500 or more must be statelicensed. Advertisments appearing in this newspaper without a license number indicate that the contractor is not licensed. For more information, contact:
Contractors State License Board 800-321-2752
August 21, 2009
Catholic San Francisco
19
Catholic Rolheiser Retreat Help Wanted San Francisco classifieds We are looking for full or part time
FR. RON ROLHEISER, OMI “Creating Sabbath Space In Our Lives”
Visit www.catholic-sf.org
10-part DVD for group or personal retreats. Perfect for private priest retreats. $
for website listings,
39.99
800-233-4629
advertising information and Place Classified Ad Form OR Call 415.614.5642, Fax 415.614.5641, Email penaj@sfarchdiocese.org
www.videoswithvalues.org
Pre-payment required Mastercard or Visa accepted
Cost $26
If you wish to publish a Novena in the Catholic San Francisco You may use the form below or call 415-614-5640 Your prayer will be published in our newspaper
Name Adress Phone MC/VISA # Exp. Select One Prayer: ❑ St. Jude Novena to SH ❑ Prayer to St. Jude
❑ Prayer to the Blessed Virgin ❑ Prayer to the Holy Spirit
Please return form with check or money order for $26 Payable to: Catholic San Francisco Advertising Dept., Catholic San Francisco 1 Peter Yorke Way, San Francisco, CA 94109
Prayer to the Blessed Virgin never known to fail. Most beautiful flower of Mt. Carmel Blessed Mother of the Son of God, assistme in my need. Help me and show me you are my mother. Oh Holy Mary, Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and earth. I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart to help me in this need. Oh Mary, conceived without sin. Pray for us (3X). Holy Mary, I place this cause in your hands (3X). Say prayers 3 days. M.S.
St. Jude Novena 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. Never known to fail. You may publish.
Personal care companion, Help with daily activities; driving, shopping, appointments. 27 years Alzheimer’s experience, references, bonded.
Prayer to the Blessed Virgin never known to fail.
Most beautiful flower of Mt. Carmel Blessed Mother of the Son of God, assistme in my need. Help me and show me you are my mother. Oh Holy Mary, Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and earth. I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart to help me in this need. Oh Mary, conceived without sin. Pray for us (3X). Holy Mary, I place this cause in your hands (3X). Say prayers 3 days. C.O.
Most beautiful flower of Mt. Carmel Blessed Mother of the Son of God, assistme in my need. Help me and show me you are my mother. Oh Holy Mary, Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and earth. I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart to help me in this need. Oh Mary, conceived without sin. Pray for us (3X). Holy Mary, I place this cause in your hands (3X). Say prayers 3 days. S.F.
St. Jude Novena
Prayer to the Blessed Virgin never known to fail.
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. Never known to fail. You may publish.
S.S.
Cartified home aide CERTIFIED GERIATRIC HOME AIDE, native San Franciscan, 19 yrs. exp. seeks employment with elderly woman exc. ref. 415-252-8312
Studio Apt. Needed Mature woman needs studio apt. up to $ 800 mo. rent. Non-smoker. Member of Old St. Mary’s parish.
415-773-1440
Most beautiful flower of Mt. Carmel Blessed Mother of the Son of God, assistme in my need. Help me and show me you are my mother. Oh Holy Mary, Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and earth. I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart to help me in this need. Oh Mary, conceived without sin. Pray for us (3X). Holy Mary, I place this cause in your hands (3X). Say prayers 3 days. R.B.
heaven can’t wait Serra for Priestly Vocations Please call Archdiocese of San Francisco Fr. Tom Daly (415) 614-5683
If you are generous, honest, compassionate, respectful, and want to make a difference, send us your resume:
Jeannie McCullough Stiles, RN Fax: 415-435-0421 Email: info@sncsllc.com Voice: 415-435-1262
PLEASE RECYCLE THIS PAPER!
LAKE TAHOE RENTAL Vacation Rental Condo in South Lake Tahoe. Sleeps 8, near Heavenly Valley and Casinos.
Call 925-933-1095 See it at RentMyCondo.com#657
Schola Gregorianum, formerly the music ministers of the National Shrine of St. Francis of Assisi, is available to provide music for weddings, funerals, and other liturgical rites. The quartet is especially trained in Gregorian chant as well as other early sacred music of the Catholic Church. For rates and more information, contact For rates and more information, contact schola Joseph Murphy Murphy scholamanager, manager, Joseph atat (415) (415)468-1810 468-1810or orvisit visitwww.sfschola.net. www.sfschola.net.
AVAILABLE
Electrical Services Commercial & Residential
• Electrical Upgrades • • Panel Upgrades •
For Rent
Music
Electrical OFFICE SPACE
Your Preferred Diamond Certified Electrician
C.C.
Prayer to the Blessed Virgin never known to fail.
In-home care in San Francisco, Marin County, peninsula Nursing care for children in San Francisco schools
Elderly Care Vocations (415) 713-1366
PUBLISH A NOVENA
RNs, LVNs, CNAs, Caregivers
• Landscape Lighting • • Lighting Controls • • Surge Protection • • Audio/Video Services • • Whole House Fans • • Commercial Services •
Call Today
800.391.6517 www.gentecservices.com
VISIT US AT CATHOLIC-SF.ORG
Approximately 2,000 to 10,000 square feet first floor office space available (additional space available if needed) at One Peter Yorke Way, San Francisco (between Gough & Franklin), is being offered for lease to a non-profit entity. Space available includes enclosed offices, open work area with several cubicles, large work room, and storage rooms on the lower level of the Archdiocese of San Francisco Chancery/Pastoral Center. We also have mail and copy services available, as well as meeting rooms (based on availability). Reception services available. Space has access to kitchen area and restroom facilities. Parking spaces negotiable. Ready for immediate occupancy with competitive terms. Come view the space. For more information, contact
Katie Haley, (415) 614-5556 email haleyk@sfarchdiocese.org.
20
Catholic San Francisco
August 21, 2009
In Remembrance of the Faithful Departed Interred In Our Catholic Cemeteries During the Month of July HOLY CROSS COLMA Maria “Judy” Alves Stella L. Andrade Edythe Marie Ansel Mela Arevalo Sandra J. Asher Jeanne Poulou Austin Henry R. Ayala Victorina A. Azuma Mercedes J. Balagbis Harold D. Bargagliotti Joseph L. Barrios Primitiva G. Bautista Francisca Becerra Reynaldo E. Bendo Valdi J. Bernard Jose B. Biscarra Katherine G. Blum Adele J. Boyer Luke Xavier Brennan Fred Anthony Broock Raymond L. Campi Amelia Salud Caparaz Marie Louise Capizano Marion J. Carter Michael J. Casey Janice Ann Cecchini Margaret T. Chung Paul R. Cilia Ruth H. Colicchia Hazel M. Cronin Maeve S. Cronin-Williams Philip G. Crumpler, Sr. Lupe Cuadra Felicie M. Del Bonta Eva M. DeMartini Cesare DeMartini
Hilda DePrato Kathleen McCarthy Dierks Consuelo A. Domergue Thelma B. Egan Louise Mary Estrada Baptiste Etcheverry Eilene B. Etchison Geraldine (Gerry) Feehan Bevery T. Finigan Gloria A. Fletcher Robert E. Flood Louise A. Fox Lorenzo M. Fusco Gerald E. “Jerry” Gallagher Andrea P. Gaufo Robert A. Geisel Leone J. Germenis Berta Cristina Gonzalez Norma R. Grant Thelma M. Gratto Ruth H. Griffin Joseph Griggs Urbana Guardado Frances Gutierrez Rose Basuino Gwilliam Wilma Harris Dolores R. Hartl Bessie M. Incaviglia Steve L. Jefferson Delfin S. Jennings Helen A. Kelly Phyllis Kirsacko Joy Joan Kitson Michael Patrick Langendorf Wayne R. Larson Ronald P. Lemoge Lorraine Lucero Victor Beltran Macias
Allan Maginis Lonnie A. Maxwell Laila E. McMullin Dolores McNulty Sr. M. Elizabeth Murray, SHF Jeanne Noftsger Marianne Novales William T. O’Connor Patricia O’Keeffe Timothy F. O’Leary Lola M. Palacios Elizabeth “Pat” Palmer Richard A. Parodi Eddy M. Pena Sonia P. Perez Mariana A. Pimentel Margaret E. Prendiville James Warren Price Juana Aurora Ramirez Helen M. Ramos Carl C. Rath Carol Renault Frank Riccomi Frank R. Rochex Louise Romeo Giovanni Rossi Rose D. Ruggiero Daniel A. Ruiz Joe Ryan Rudolph L. Saisi Alice Vignau Schmitz Areli J. Silva Isabelle A. Souza Bernice Spiller Lena P. Stefani Nellie A. Struberg Elma C. Sweeney Juan Antonio Tejada
Linda F. Terzian Flora Valente Felton Thomas Vasquez Aurea V. Villagracia Robert R. Wall, M.D. Irene Williams Carhious Joseph Wilturner Grace S. Wong
HOLY CROSS MENLO PARK Carolyn Barbe Anne M. Fields Florence E. Fitch Victor Godoy Moises Mendoza Guzman Richard Joseph Martinez Noel R. Moran June B. Spieker
MT. OLIVET SAN RAFAEL Charlotte V. Bywater Mamie Irene Fontes Marylouise S. Garcia Josephine A. Harman Henry Marcinowski Patricia A. Newsom Ellen (Giomi) Raffi Bernice Scotto
HOLY CROSS CATHOLIC CEMETERY – COLMA First Saturday Mass - September 5, 2009 All Saints Mausoleum Chapel - 11:00 am Celebrant - Rev. Thomas M. Hamilton Pastor St. Gabriel Church
The Catholic Cemeteries Archdiocese of San Francisco www.holycrosscemeteries.com HOLY CROSS CATHOLIC CEMETERY 1500 Mission Road, Colma, CA 650-756-2060
HOLY CROSS CATHOLIC CEMETERY Intersection of Santa Cruz Avenue, Menlo Park, CA 650-323-6375
MT. OLIVET CATHOLIC CEMETERY 270 Los Ranchitos Road, San Rafael, CA 415-479-9020
PILARCITOS CEMETERY Hwy. 92 @ Main, Half Moon Bay, CA 650-712-1676
ST. ANTHONY CEMETERY Stage Road, Pescadero, CA 650-712-1679
OUR LADY OF THE PILLAR CEMETERY Miramontes St., Half Moon Bay, CA 650-712-1679
A Tradition of Faith Throughout Our Lives.