The Catholic Spirit - May 7, 2015

Restoring the vote 6 • Catholics and politics 9 • ‘Narnia’ ballet 25

May 7, 2015 Newspaper of the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis

thecatholicspirit.com

Motherhood in the sisterhood

Married former Anglican priest ordained for special ministry

By Bob Zyskowski The Catholic Spirit

From left, Sister Mary Joseph Evans; her mother, Joan Evans; and Mother Mary Clare Roufs stand in front of a statue of Our Lady of Guadalupe in the courtyard of the Cathedral of St. Paul. Sister Mary Joseph and Mother Mary Clare, superior general, belong to the Handmaids of the Heart of Jesus in the Diocese of New Ulm. Dave Hrbacek/The Catholic Spirit

In their vocations, religious women and men have shown the truth and beauty in the sacrifices they make for the sake of the faithful. Catholics have seen the joy in these lives and for those celebrating them. But what hasn’t been shared is the pain that can be felt when answering God’s call means, to a certain extent, foregoing family.

Three women, bonded by motherhood, share the struggles and joys of change.

Page 10

Vaughn Treco, a husband, grandfather of two and former Anglican priest, was ordained to the Catholic diaconate and priesthood over the May 2-3 weekend, with the approval of Pope Francis.

His ordination as a Catholic priest who is married is allowed as an exception to the normal requirement for celibacy.

Father Treco will serve within the geographic boundaries of the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis as a member of the Personal Ordinariate of the Chair of St. Peter (see related story, page 5) as the priest for a community of Father Vaughn former Anglicans.

TRECO The small community of 10 people worships on Sundays at Holy Family Church in St. Louis Park. Called the Society of St. Bede the Venerable, they have been under the care of Benedictine Brother John-Bede Pauley of St. John’s Abbey in Collegeville.

“They’ve been functioning as a society,” Father Treco told The Catholic Spirit, “and my task is to grow it into a parish.

“I love church planting,” he added. “I’ve done this work before.”

Treco, 52, was ordained to the transitional diaconate with other transitional deacons from the St. Paul Seminary by Archbishop John Nienstedt May 2 at the Basilica of St. Mary in Minneapolis. Bishop Andrew Cozzens ordained Deacon Treco to the Catholic priesthood May 3 at Holy Family.

In a letter to priests of the archdiocese that invited them to attend the priesthood ordination, Bishop Cozzens explained the circumstances that have brought Father Treco to the Catholic priesthood.

Please turn to FORMER ANGLICAN on page 5

ALSO inside

New deacons ordained

Keeping Catholic in college

Advancing leaders

Nine men take next step on road to priesthood.

— Page 4

Campus ministers offer 10 tips to graduates in a special section featuring senior profiles.

— Pages 16-17

St. Thomas Academy celebrates 130 years.

— Pages 22-24

Page Two

2 in PICTURES

“We are able to enrich ourselves with [Dante Alighieri’s] experience in order to cross the many dark forests still scattered on our earth and to happily complete our pilgrim story, to reach the destination dreamed of and wished for by everyone: ‘the love that moves the sun and other stars.’”

Pope Francis May 4 on the 750th anniversary of the birth of Dante Alighieri, author of the “Divine Comedy,” a literary masterpiece the pope recommended as a spiritual guide ahead of the Holy Year of Mercy.

NEWS notes • The Catholic Spirit

Religious retirement fund 2014 appeal a success MAY IS FOR MARY Members of the Knights of Columbus color guard carry a statue of Mary to the Cathedral of St. Paul May 3. The statue led the annual Family Rosary Procession of hundreds of Catholics from the Minnesota State Capitol to the cathedral. In a homily following the procession, Archbishop John Nienstedt urged Catholics to pray the rosary daily through July 4 for the success of the Fortnight for Freedom and the safeguarding of religious liberty in the U.S. Maria Wiering/The Catholic Spirit

The 2014 appeal for the Retirement Fund for Religious raised $523,268.14 in the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis to support the care of retired religious sisters, brothers and order priests. School Sister of Notre Dame Midge Breiter, the fund’s local coordinator, praised Archbishop John Nienstedt, priests and parishioners for the amount raised. “Many communities have made significant progress in stabilizing their retirement funding, yet the overall needs of senior religious remain profound, and so our mission continues,” she said. “Words cannot express our gratitude for your generous and prayerful support.”

Two Catholic teachers receive statewide honor Mark Kenney, dean and athletic director at St. Charles Borromeo School in St. Anthony, and Nancy Stockhaus, choir director at Benilde-St.Margaret’s School in St. Louis Park, received the Minnesota Independent School Forum’s 2015 Honor Teacher of the Year awards. They were among six educators from across Minnesota who were honored at an April 26 ceremony at the University of St. Thomas in St. Paul.

Maureen Soller, a volunteer at Risen Christ School in Minneapolis, received MISF’s “Behind the Scenes Award.” The Minnesota Independent School Forum represents non-public schools across Minnesota.

GHR, Boston College to help seven local schools HONORING FATHER FROEHLE Archbishop John Nienstedt blesses a plaque in honor of Father Charles Froehle during a dedication ceremony April 30 at the St. Paul Seminary. The administration building of the seminary has been named in honor of Father Froehle, a parish priest who also served the seminary for 25 years as a professor, dean and rector. Father Froehle, who died Jan. 6 at age 77 after a lengthy illness, graduated from the seminary and was ordained a priest in 1963. In 1980, he was appointed rector and was one of the major architects of the 1987 affiliation of the seminary with the then College of St. Thomas. Dave Hrbacek/The Catholic Spirit

CORRECTION

WHAT’S NEW on social media Get a glimpse of the Family Rosary Procession through the eyes of Kathryn Kueppers, Miss St. Paul’s Outstanding Teen and a parishioner of St. Joseph in West St. Paul. Her great-grandmother Florence Kueppers launched the annual event in 1947.

Looking for the perfect first Communion gift? Check out Bob Zyskowski’s review of “Just for Today,” a new children’s book illustrated by Bimba Landmann featuring St. John XXIII’s 10 ideas for living a good life, known as his daily decalogue.

Bishop Andrew Cozzens is hosting a Google Hangout at 6:30 p.m. May 22 to encourage young adults to join him at World Youth Day, July 26-31, 2016, in Krakow, Poland. For a Hangout invitation, contact Justin Stroh at strohj@archspm.org.

The Catholic Spirit is published bi-weekly for The Archdiocese of Saint Paul and Minneapolis Vol. 20 — No. 9 MOST REVEREND JOHN C. NIENSTEDT, Publisher ANNE STEFFENS, Associate Publisher United in Faith, Hope and Love

May 7, 2015 • The Catholic Spirit

The GHR Foundation is partnering with Boston College to launch a new educational model in seven Twin Cities Catholic schools: Ascension, Pope John Paul II, Risen Christ and St. Helena in Minneapolis; Blessed Trinity, Richfield; St. Jerome, Maplewood; and St. Pascal Baylon, St. Paul. Called City Connect, it “identifies the strengths and needs of every student and links each child to a tailored set of intervention, prevention and enrichment services in the school or community,” program officer Meg Nodzon Gehlen wrote in an April 22 letter notifying Michael Rogers, director of urban education for the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis. GHR is focused on finding solutions that bridge the achievement gap and addressing the in- and out-of-school factors that impact students’ work, the letter added.

MARIA WIERING, Editor

In the April 23 edition, a story on the DeJak family, “For family of disabled teen, daily struggles teach ‘incredible love,’” incorrectly identified Holy Spirit Academy in Monticello. The Catholic Spirit apologizes for the error.

CLARIFICATION A paragraph in the story “What does a deacon do?” in the April 23 edition of The Catholic Spirit had the potential to mislead readers about the proper ministry of permanent deacons.

A deacon proclaims the Gospel and has the sacramental abilities to baptize and officiate weddings, all duties that can be done by a priest. A priest officiates the sacraments of the anointing of the sick, the Eucharist and confession, and deacons do not officiate those sacraments.

Materials credited to CNS copyrighted by Catholic News Service.

All other materials copyrighted by The Catholic Spirit Newspaper.

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3

T

he Easter Season is a most appropriate time for the celebration of the sacrament of confirmation. While this powerful sacrament can be celebrated at any time of the year, spring is the season that, to my mind, complements it best.

Spring, by nature, is the budding of new life and the illumination of longer periods of light. Easter celebrates the new life of Christ’s resurrection, following his passion and death. And so, confirmation, which completes and, in a sense, perfects the new life given in baptism, has a certain affinity with springtime and the Easter season. It is a sacrament of great power and grace.

To be totally transparent, let me say that presiding at confirmation ceremonies is one of the most fulfilling roles that I have as a bishop.

There in the Church body, the eager candidates are gathered, all dressed up and appropriately nervous about how their lives are about to be transformed. This is also a family event when proud parents and grandparents, brothers and sisters, catechists and directors of religious education come to participate in the fruit of their efforts and to see the result of their prayers.

It is a moment that looks to the future with great hope and expectation. It is an experience that is ripe with potential in a Church that offers rich possibilities for growth in holiness, possibilities that can seem boundless in light of the horizon that lies ahead.

Of course, confirmation is the sacrament, per se, of the Holy Spirit. Now this is not to say that all the sacraments do not depend on the power of the Holy Spirit, but here we find that the special gifts of Pentecost are transmitted to THAT THEY MAY each individual candidate.

Confirmation is one of what we call the ALL BE ONE three “Sacraments of Initiation,” that is, baptism, confirmation and holy Eucharist, as Archbishop they are considered the gateways to the new John Nienstedt life of God’s grace.

OFFICIAL His Excellency, the Most Rev. John C. Nienstedt, has announced the following appointments in the Archdiocese of Saint Paul and Minneapolis.

Effective May 1, 2015 • Reverend Dennis Thompson, appointed parochial administrator of the Church of Saint Margaret Mary in Golden Valley. This is a transfer from his current appointment as pastor of the Church of Saint Michael in Farmington. He succeeds Reverend Michael Sullivan, who has been serving as parochial administrator.

Effective July 1, 2015 • Reverend James Adams, appointed pastor of the Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe in Saint Paul. This is a transfer from his current appointment to the Archdiocesan Mission in Parroquia Jesucristo Resucitado, Puerto Ordaz, Estado Bolivar, Venezuela.

• Reverend Michael Anderson, appointed pastor of the Church of Saint Joseph in Lino Lakes. This is a transfer from his current appointment as pastor of the Church of Saint Bernard in Saint Paul.

• Reverend David Blume, appointed Director of Vocations for the Archdiocese of Saint Paul and Minneapolis. This is a transfer from his current appointment as pastor of the Church of Saint Patrick in Oak Grove.

• Reverend Michael Izen, appointed pastor of the Church of Saint Michael in Stillwater and the Church of Saint Mary in Stillwater. This is a transfer from his current

appointment as pastor of the Church of Saint Raphael in Crystal.

• Reverend Paul Jarvis, appointed pastor of the Church of Christ the King in Minneapolis. This is a transfer from his current appointment as pastor of the Church of Saint Joseph in Rosemount.

• Reverend Paul Kammen, appointed pastor of the Church of Saint Joseph in Rosemount. This is a transfer from his current appointment as pastor of the Church of Saint Maximilian Kolbe in Delano.

• Reverend Kevin Kenney, appointed pastor of the Church of Divine Mercy in Faribault and the Church of Saint Michael in Kenyon. This is a transfer from his current appointment as pastor of the Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe in Saint Paul.

• Reverend Dale Korogi, appointed pastor of the Church of the Ascension in Minneapolis. This is a transfer from his current appointment as pastor of the Church of Christ the King in Minneapolis.

• Reverend Nathan LaLiberte, appointed pastor of the Church of Saint Maximilian Kolbe in Delano. This is a transfer from his current appointment as parochial vicar of the Church of Saint Michael in Saint Michael.

• Reverend Benjamin Little, appointed pastor of the Church of Saint Michael in Farmington. This is a transfer from his current appointment as parochial vicar of the Church of Saint Olaf in Minneapolis.

• Reverend Luke Marquard, appointed pastor of the Church of the Good Shepherd in Golden Valley. This is a transfer from his current appointment as parochial vicar of the Church of the Epiphany in Coon Rapids.

The Acts of the Apostles chronicles the very early distinction made between baptism and confirmation. In chapter 8 of Acts, we read that the Deacon Philip, after preaching the Gospel to the people of Samaria, baptized them in the faith.

But then we read: “Now when the apostles at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent to them Peter and John, who came down and prayed for them that they might receive the Holy Spirit; for it had not yet fallen on any of them, but they had only been baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. Then they laid their hands on them and they received the Holy Spirit” (Acts 8:14-17).

This clearly describes a sacrament distinct from baptism and one that was reserved to the Apostles. And it remains so today. The laying on of hands remains an essential component to the rite and this is followed by an anointing on the forehead of the person with sacred chrism.

Now the word “chrism” has the same origin as the words “Christ” or “Christian,” meaning the “Anointed One.” Chrism consists of olive oil mixed with a fragrant scented balm. It is “consecrated” by the bishop at the annual Chrism Mass, during or near Holy Week. St. Cyril of Jerusalem in the fourth century spoke of its importance: “Beware of supposing this to be plain ointment. For just as the bread of the Eucharist, after the invocation of the Holy Spirit, is no longer mere bread, but the Body of Christ, so too this holy ointment is no longer simple ointment . . . after the invocation. It is Christ’s gift of grace; and, by the coming of the Holy Spirit, it is made fit to impart his divine nature. The ointment is symbolically applied to your forehead . . . .

While your body is anointed with the visible ointment, your soul is sanctified by the holy and life-giving Spirit.”

In the earliest centuries of the Church, the informal name for confirmation was “the seal” (in Latin: signaculum) because the sacrament functioned analogously to a signet ring. Important documents were secured with a wax seal impressed with the image on the face of the ring. While the seal did not affect the message of the document, it did convey the official nature of that document.

After the fifth century, the word “confirmation” was adopted as a closer description of what the sacrament does, namely, “confirming” or completing what was begun at baptism.

In my next column, I hope to describe the effects of the sacrament of confirmation.

God bless you!

• Reverend Michael Miller, appointed pastor of the Church of Saint Patrick in Cedar Lake and Saint Catherine in Spring Lake. This is a transfer from his current appointment as pastor of the Church of Saint Michael in Stillwater and the Church of Saint Mary in Stillwater.

• Reverend Brian Park, appointed pastor of the Church of the Annunciation in Minneapolis. This is a transfer from his current appointment as parochial administrator of the Church of Saint Charles Borromeo in St. Anthony.

• Reverend James Peterson, appointed parochial vicar of the Archdiocesan Mission in Parroquia Jesucristo Resucitado, Puerto Ordaz, Estado, Bolivar, Venezuela. This is a transfer from his current appointment as parochical vicar of the Church of Saint Odilia in Shoreview.

• Reverend Troy Przybilla, appointed pastor of the Church of Saint Charles Borromeo in St. Anthony. This is a transfer from his current appointment as Director of the Office of Vocations for the Archdiocese.

• Reverend Andrew Stueve, appointed pastor of the Church of Saint Anne in LeSueur. This is a transfer from his current appointment as parochial vicar of the Church of the Holy Name of Jesus in Medina.

• Reverend Mark Underdahl, appointed pastor of the Church of Saint Francis of Assisi in Lake St. Croix Beach. This is a transfer from his current appointment as pastor of the Church of Saint Joseph in Lino Lakes.

• Reverend Joseph Whalen, appointed pastor of the Church of Saint Timothy in Blaine. This is a transfer from his current appointment as pastor of the Church of Our

Lady of Peace in Minneapolis.

Effective July 15, 2015 • Reverend Stanley Mader, appointed pastor of the Church of Saint Ambrose in Woodbury. This is a transfer from his current appointment as Pastor of the Church of Saint John the Baptist in Vermillion, the Church of Saint Mathias in Hampton, and the Church of Saint Mary in New Trier.

• Reverend Thomas Walker, appointed pastor of the Church of Saint Michael in Prior Lake. This is a transfer from his current appointment as pastor of the Church of Saint Ambrose in Woodbury.

Father Walker will serve as parochial administrator of Saint Michael in Prior Lake from July 1 - July 14, 2015.

Retirements Effective July 1, 2015 • Reverend Charles Brambilla, released from his assignment as pastor of the Church of Saint Timothy in Blaine and granted the status of a retired priest. Father Brambilla has served the Archdiocese as a priest since his ordination in 1970.

• Reverend Theodore Campbell, released from his assignment as pastor of the Church of the Good Shepherd in Golden Valley and granted the status of a retired priest. Father Campbell has served the Archdiocese as a priest since his arrival in 1979.

• Reverend George Grafsky, released from his assignment as pastor of the Church of Saint Anne in Le Sueur and granted the status of a retired priest. Father Grafsky has served the Archdiocese as a priest since his ordination in 1971.

• Reverend James Himmelsbach,

From the Archbishop

Confirmation perfects ‘new life’ of baptism

Editor’s note: Information usually found on this page is elsewhere in this edition.

Look for Archbishop Nienstedt’s public schedule on page 7 and the Spanish translation of his column on page 28.

released from his assignment as pastor of the Church of the Annunciation in Minneapolis and granted the status of a retired priest. Father Himmelsbach has served the Archdiocese as a priest since his ordination in 1977.

• Reverend Jerome Keiser, released from his assignment as pastor of the Church of Saint Francis of Assisi in Lake St. Croix Beach and granted the status of a retired priest. Father Keiser has served the Archdiocese as a priest since his ordination in 1971.

• Reverend Stephen LaCanne, released from his assignment as pastor of the Church of Saint Leonard Port Maurice in Minneapolis and as hospital chaplain and granted the status of a retired priest. Father LaCanne has served the Archdiocese as a priest since his ordination in 1976.

• Reverend Michael O’Connell, released from his assignment as pastor of the Church of the Ascension in Minneapolis and granted the status of a retired priest. Father O’Connell has served the Archdiocese as a priest since his ordination in 1967.

• Reverend Thomas Sieg, released from his assignment as pastor of the Church of Saint Michael in Prior Lake and granted the status of a retired priest. Father Sieg has served the Archdiocese as a priest since his ordination in 1971.

• Reverend Orlando Tatel, released from his assignment as pastor of the Church of Saint Patrick in Cedar Lake and Saint Catherine in Spring Lake, and granted the status of a retired priest. Father Tatel has served the Archdiocese as a priest since his incardination in 1982.

May 7, 2015 • The Catholic Spirit

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Seven men ordained transitional deacons for archdiocese May 2

Archbishop John Nienstedt prays during a May 2 Mass at the Basilica of St. Mary in Minneapolis where nine men were ordained deacons. Kneeling, from left, are Deacons Matthew Northenscold, Mark Pavlak, Adam Tokashiki, Vaughn Treco and Joseph Zabinski. Not pictured are Deacons Neil Bakker, Michael Daly, Kyle Kowalczyk and Michael McClellan. Seven of the men were ordained transitional deacons for the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis, and expect to be ordained priests next year. Deacon Tokashiki was ordained for the religious community Pro Ecclesia Sancta, and Deacon Treco (now Father Treco) was ordained for the Personal Ordinariate of the Chair of St. Peter (see story on page 1).

Dianne Towalski/For The Catholic Spirit

photo

Deacon Neil Bakker

in Lakeville congratulates

Upon Ordination to the Order of Transitional Deacon for the Archdiocese of Saint Paul and Minneapolis - May 2, 2015 "Brothers, select from among you seven reputable men, filled with the Spirit and wisdom (to serve at table) - Acts 6:3

Congratulations

Deacon Michael McClellan We are so proud of you! Thank you to saying yes to God’s calling. From the parishioners of Divine Mercy Church and the families of Divine Mercy School & Bethlehem Academy.

May 7, 2015 • The Catholic Spirit

5 Continued from page 1 Father Treco “comes to us with a rich theological background as a former director of formation for his Anglican diocese,” Bishop Cozzens noted. “He finished all the requirements for ordination to the priesthood in the Catholic Church some years ago, and has been awaiting the right place for his service to the Church.”

Msgr. Jeffrey Steenson, the ordinary of the Ordinariate of the Chair of St. Peter in the United States, approached Treco in 2014 about the need for a priest to serve the small ordinariate community in Minnesota.

“Since the community existed within the boundaries of the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis, Msgr.

Steenson and I opened a conversation about Mr. Treco’s ordination for service to that community,” Bishop Cozzens wrote. “With the archbishop’s permission, I have been working with Msgr. Steenson on this for the past year, and now the final hurdle has been crossed.”

After his ordination, Father Treco may, at the archbishop’s discretion and with the permission of his ordinary, also serve in other capacities within the archdiocese, Bishop Cozzens explained. “For example, he could be a parochial vicar at one of our parishes as well. This is all yet to be determined by the archbishop.”

Ground-breaking pastor Father Treco became a Catholic in 2000.

“The more closely I read Scripture, the more it seemed that Catholic Church teaching cohered to Scripture,” he explained.

Born in Nassau in the Bahamas and raised in a deeply religious Plymouth Brethren family, he attended an Evangelical seminary in Illinois and graduated with a Master of Divinity degree.

After discovering what he described as discrepancies in Plymouth Brethren teaching, Vaughn and his wife, Norma, joined the Charismatic Episcopal Church. In 1991 he launched and developed the New Covenant

What is the Personal Ordinariate of the Chair of St. Peter?

On Jan. 1, 2012, Pope Benedict XVI established the Personal Ordinariate of the Chair of St. Peter for groups of Anglicans in the United States who seek to enter into full communion with the Catholic Church.

Later extended to Canada, the ordinariate was the second the pope created in light of the apostolic constitution “Anglicanorum Coetibus.” The first was created for England and Wales in 2011.

Norms set by the Vatican Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith explain that an ordinariate is comparable to a diocese.

While priests of the ordinariate may celebrate Mass according to the Roman Rite, they are allowed to celebrate the Eucharist and the other sacraments, pray the Liturgy of the Hours, and offer other liturgical celebrations according to liturgical books proper to the Anglican tradition approved by the Holy See. This worship maintains the liturgical, spiritual and pastoral traditions of the Anglican Communion within the Catholic Church,“as a precious gift nourishing the faith of the members of the ordinariate and as a treasure to be shared,” according to the apostolic constitution which Pope Benedict XVI approved in 2009.

Priests of the ordinariate provide pastoral care for former Anglicans who enter into full communion with the Catholic through the ordinariate.

Former Anglican deacons, priests and bishops — including married priests — may

be accepted as candidates for Holy Orders in the Catholic Church, and serve the ordinariate. Unmarried ministers must submit to the norm of clerical celibacy.

Married clergy cannot become Catholic bishops, but they may be an “ordinary,” or leader of an ordinariate.

The Catechism of the Catholic Church explains that under normal circumstances, Latin Rite priests — including those in the widespread Roman Rite — and unmarried deacons promise to remain celibate “for the sake of the kingdom of heaven.”

The Catechism states: “Called to consecrate themselves with undivided heart to the Lord and to ‘the affairs of the Lord,’ they give themselves entirely to God and to men. Celibacy is a sign of this new life to the service of which the Church’s minister is consecrated; accepted with a joyous heart celibacy radiantly proclaims the Reign of God” (CCC 1579).

Exceptions to the discipline of priestly celibacy have been made for clergy of other traditions who have sought to be ordained into the Catholic Church.

While Vaughn Treco is the first priest to be ordained in the archdiocese for the ordinariate (see story that begins on page 1), at least one other former Protestant minister — Father Lawrence Blake, a former Lutheran minister — was ordained a priest for the archdiocese in 1999 and has served at several parishes, as a U.S. Air Force chaplain and as a hospital chaplain. Father Blake is married with children.

Local

Former Anglican, now a Catholic priest, has rich history

Journey story on video To learn more about Father Vaughn Treco’s story, watch a YouTube video of his 2006 interview on the EWTN program “The Journey Home” at http://bit. ly/1KHCBt8.

Please turn to FATHER TRECO on page 31

SISTER MARTHA GETCHELL, MM, Missioner to Peru for 50 Years, Dies at 83

Sister Martha Getchell, MM, died April 25, 2015. Born in Minneapolis, she was 83 years old and served in Peru for 50 years.

A vespers service was held April 29, 2015, and a Burial Mass April 30, 2015, at the Maryknoll Sisters Center, Maryknoll, NY. Interment was at the Maryknoll Sisters Cemetery on the Center grounds.

TheCatholicSpirit.com

Congratulations, Father Kyle Kowalczyk!

NOTICE

We rejoice with you in your ordination to the holy priesthood. We wish you many blessings as you continue your journey with Our Lord beyond your May 2016 ordination.

Look for The Catholic Spirit advertising insert from

SAINT THOMAS ACADEMY

The Parishioners, Staff and Faculty of Saint Joseph’s Church and School of West Saint Paul, Minnesota

in all copies of this issue.

Congratulations Deacon Michael Daly

From the parishioners of Divine Mercy Church and the families of Divine Mercy School & Bethlehem Academy.

May God bless you as you continue to prepare for the priesthood.

May 7, 2015 • The Catholic Spirit

Local

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MCC: As end of session nears, still time to act

By Jessica Trygstad The Catholic Spirit As a May 18 deadline to finalize a state budget looms, Minnesota legislators continue to work on a number of bills that the Minnesota Catholic Conference has weighed in on during the session.

Jason Adkins, executive director and general counsel for the Minnesota Catholic Conference, said now is a “crucial juncture” on all the bills.

Among legislation the Church supports is restoring a convicted felon’s right to vote after incarceration. In an April 22 letter, Archbishop John Nienstedt urged state legislators to pass H.F. 342 and S.F. 355. He said doing so would help offenders renew their lives, reduce recidivism, conserve public resources and “help foster the political participation of minority communities disproportionately affected by the current criminal justice system.”

“The inability to vote and have a say in decisions that affect their family is another stumbling block faced by those trying to reconcile themselves to the community,” he wrote.

It passed the Senate April 23 as part of the judiciary omnibus bill. Despite broad and bipartisan support, Adkins said the bill has slowed down and snagged “for more political reasons than substantive ones,” adding that work continues during the last weeks.

Other key legislation areas include: establishing a commission to study surrogacy, education funding and school choice, allowing Minnesotans without legal status to obtain provisional driver’s licenses or state-issued identification, prenatal Trisomy diagnosis awareness, opposing physician-assisted suicide, and repealing and replacing the MinnesotaCare health plan.

Notice of claims filing deadline hits local, regional, U.S. press The Catholic Spirit

Jason Adkins of the Minnesota Catholic Conference delivers remarks April 29 at a Restore the Vote rally at the State Capitol, supporting a bill that would allow convicted felons voting rights after incarceration. Dave Hrbacek/The Catholic Spirit Adkins said the session has been successful in bringing substance to conversations and building bridges.

“Every legislative session you can’t necessarily measure success or failure in terms of what gets passed and what doesn’t,” he said, “because the Church aims to bring to light human dignity issues.

In terms of where the Church needs to be in conversation at the Capitol, it’s been successful.”

For more information about the status of specific legislation of concern to Catholics, visit the Action Center page at www.mncc.org.

The Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis has scheduled notices of an important claim filing deadline to run in local, regional and national publications.

After an Aug. 3 claim deadline filing date was established by a federal bankruptcy judge on April 16, the archdiocese made arrangements to run notices in 23 newspapers to provide notice of the deadline and other important information to those who may have a claim of clergy sexual abuse against the archdiocese.

The archdiocese has also notified local TV and news radio stations, as well as the Associated Press about the Aug. 3 filing date.

The notices will be run a total of four times at three-week intervals in publications and their websites ranging from USA Today, the Minneapolis Star Tribune and The Minnesota Daily to the Crookston Daily News, The Free Press in Mankato and the Faribault Daily News. La Prensa and the Hmong Times are also included. The notices will also run in three Catholic publications: National Catholic Reporter, the National Catholic Register and The Catholic Spirit.

Divine Mercy Catholic Church has the following full-time positions available: Executive Parish Administrator Parish Accounting Manager Head Maintenance/Church Custodian Please visit the Divine Mercy Catholic Church website at www.divinemercy.cc for complete position descriptions and contact information.

archspm.org May 7, 2015 • The Catholic Spirit

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TheCatholicSpirit.com

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By Maria Wiering The Catholic Spirit Western Christians are facing a culture “bored with Christ,” author George Weigel said April 23 before an audience including hundreds of permanent deacons and their wives in Minneapolis.

He was quoting Detroit Archbishop Allen Vigneron’s April 2 Chrism George Mass homily, WEIGEL in which he called the world “asleep about the Gospel.”

“Are we not bored with Christ? Is that not the condition that the Holy Spirit needs to heal in our time?” the archbishop asked. “Have we not come to a time where hearts no longer seem restless, but rather more

drugged, befuddled?”

Deacons have a particular role in combating this poverty, Weigel said, as “radically converted disciples” and ministers of God’s mercy.

Weigel spoke at the National Association of Diaconate Directors convention at the invitation of Deacon Joseph Michalak, the director of diaconate formation for the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis. Eight months after the 2013 publication of Weigel’s most recent book “Evangelical Catholicism” — which analyzed the Church’s current transition and the reforms necessary to embrace the next era — Deacon Michalak cornered Weigel at the Rediscover: Catholic Celebration in St. Paul.

He told Weigel that he missed an important stakeholder: the permanent deacon, and he invited the author to fill the gap of his “missing chapter” with a presentation at the convention.

Weigel told his audience that it

ARCHBISHOP’S schedule Saturday, May 9 10 a.m., Minneapolis Basilica of St. Mary: Confirmation

6 p.m., St. Paul Archbishop’s residence: barbecue with seminarians

Sunday, May 10 9:30 a.m., Minneapolis St. Bridget Church: Sunday liturgy

Thursday, May 14 Noon, St. Paul Archbishop’s residence: luncheon with presbyterate

Monday, May 11 11 a.m., St. Paul Archbishop’s residence: archdiocesan priest jubilarians Mass and lunch Tuesday, May 12 Noon, St. Paul Archbishop’s residence: luncheon with presbyterate 1:30 p.m., St. Paul Chancery: Archbishop’s council meeting 2 p.m., St. Paul Chancery-Hayden building: welcome gathering for new ACCW president 6 p.m., St. Paul The St. Paul Seminary: Mass and graduation for Archbishop Harry J. Flynn Catechetical Institute Wednesday, May 13 7:30 a.m., Minneapolis DeLaSalle High School: Mass and breakfast with DeLaSalle High School boys state basketball champions Noon, St. Paul Archbishop’s residence: luncheon with presbyterate

was their role to “outline the chapter” with their work, but emphasized that they must define themselves by who they are, not just what they do.

During his hourlong talk, he put the Church’s situation in the context of the ages preceding it, and made a case for the emergence of “evangelical Catholicism,” characterized by the Church as a community of disciples in mission.

The Church’s embrace of evangelical Catholicism came “just in time,” he said.

“We are now in a challenging situation in which the ambient public culture does not help transmit the faith, nor is it neutral to the faith,” he said.

“The cultural air we breathe is toxic to the faith,” he added, unlike “the cultural air” of two generations ago.

“The only future is an evangelically vibrant Catholicism,” he said, which he called “a

Catholicism that is prepared to be countercultural” in an irreligious world uninterested in God. “What has been lost among too many of our contemporaries is a sense of awe or wonder at the very mystery of being itself. Our horizons have been flattened, irony and skepticism dominate our culture, nothing in the human condition is simply given, all is susceptible to manipulation by acts of our will. We are bored, dulled, uninterested,” he said. “The pleasure-principle pursued as the supreme goal of life has turned out to deprive us of joy.”

Weigel mentioned a litany of groups and institutions living out evangelical Catholicism.

In an interview following his talk, Weigel praised the Catholic Studies program at the University of St. Thomas in St. Paul. He called the students, alumni and faculty “something that you cannot help but be heartened and impressed by.”

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Sister’s last stand: CSJ turns 90, keeps serving at hospital

By Jessica Trygstad The Catholic Spirit Turning 85 meant semi-retirement for Sister Ann Michele Jadlowski, a sister of St. Joseph of Carondelet. Having just turned 90, she continues to care for people at St. Joseph Hospital in St. Paul, founded by her order, but sees the need to invite Catholics to share in the mission.

“Our mission here is to continue the mission of our sisters, which was compassion to anyone who comes to our doors,” she said.

Sister Ann Michele has helped lead the spirituality department at the downtown St. Paul hospital for 37 years. The Sisters of St. Joseph once operated St. Joseph and had maintained a strong presence as staff members and volunteers. Sister Ann Michele is the only remaining sister serving at the Catholic hospital, part of the HealthEast Care System. As a certified chaplain, she distributes the Eucharist to patients and leads a support group — Caritas, Latin for “charity” — for people affected by cancer.

“I sit sometimes at night and think about the people I’ve met and the people I know, and it’s very enriching,” Sister Ann Michele said. “I know I have been given the gift of being able to listen and being compassionate. So, what keeps me here is knowing where I came from, knowing the experience I’ve had, and knowing about what I need to try to help to keep that going.”

She said while the diversity in St. Joseph’s spirituality department benefits the many people who come through the hospital’s doors, she knows patients want a Catholic presence and believes the community can preserve and even enhance the hospital’s Catholic identity.

“You don’t have to be a sister to do this kind of ministry,” said Sister Ann Michele, who has led the Caritas group for 27 years. She hopes CSJ consociates — vowed members who retain their individual lifestyles in the greater community but conduct the sisters’ ministries — can carry on what she calls the spirit of the sisters at the hospital. She wants the laity to

St. Joseph of Carondelet Sister Ann Michele Jadlowski talks with Larry Celski of St. Adalbert in St. Paul during a Caritas session at St. Joseph Hospital in St. Paul. The group meets to help those affected by cancer.

Dave Hrbacek/The Catholic Spirit become more involved, too, saying eucharistic ministers are especially important to patients.

“The kind of world we’re living in today when it’s rush, rush, rush, it’s crisis, crisis, crisis, at a time like that when you run into a patient who has a terminal prognosis, they want to talk about other things,” she said. “And that’s what the sister chaplains did, that’s what these chaplains do. There aren’t enough of us, but we can touch it in the eucharistic ministry, we can touch it in encouraging younger people.”

Religious life: why not?

The Minneapolis native and alumna of St. Catherine University in St. Paul spent nearly 30 years teaching and then in administration at high schools, including St. Margaret’s Academy, now Benilde-St. Margaret’s, in St. Louis Park.

Not yet a religious sister, it was at the CSJ-run

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school where she got a glimpse of religious life.

“One day, I began to think like this, ‘Well, you know it’s [religious life] possible. But, why?

Why would I do that? I don’t feel any drawing to that,’” she said. “And then the thought came, ‘Why not? Give it a try.’”

Along with celebrating her 90th birthday May 5, she’s celebrating her 65th jubilee as a religious sister this year.

“It’s been 65 years, and I’m still trying to figure it out in a sense that as time goes by, I’m beginning to understand a little bit more clearly what the call to religious life is,” she said. “It’s much simpler than you think it is, but you don’t understand it when you’re young. . . . It doesn’t mean necessarily what you do. It’s more, who have you become with God’s direction — are you hearing that the only thing that’s important is that you’re there for others and not yourself?”

9

By Bob Zyskowski The Catholic Spirit Pope Francis sees the world from a unique perspective, and when the Holy Father addresses the U.S. Congress this fall, Americans can expect to hear challenges to the way they think and act, predicted a leading Catholic social justice advocate.

“The world looks a little different from the slums of Buenos Aires than it does from Wall Street,” John Carr explained.

The one-time Argentine archbishop looks at the church, the world and the economy “from the bottom up,” Carr said, adding that the pope has the perspective of an “outsider” who is among whom Jesus called “one of the least of these.”

Carr, who led the U.S. Catholic bishops’ justice and peace efforts for 25 years, delivered the inaugural lecture of the new Institute for Catholicism and Citizenship at the University of St. Thomas in St. Paul April 23.

An alumnus of St. Thomas who was raised in Hopkins, Carr described himself as one who “grew up in this Church and was shaped by this community.”

After working for the nation’s bishops, he spent a year as a

Harvard fellow before becoming the founding director of the Initiative on Catholic Social Thought and Public Life at Georgetown University in Washington, D.C., in 2013.

In his talk at St. Thomas — “Pope Francis on Politics: Faithful Citizenship in a Time of Polarization” — Carr bemoaned that Washington politicians from both major parties were “de-moralized,” had “lost their way” morally speaking. “They should be safeguarding the most vulnerable,” Carr said, “and instead are serving the most powerful.”

Republicans find answers to the nation’s issues in economics and the market, he said, and Democrats find the solutions in “lifestyle individualism.”

The problems are ethical, moral and sometimes spiritual, he added.

“Protecting the middle class is the mantra of both parties, when the job is to protect and serve the least of these.”

Involvement required Still, “Politics is a good thing,” Carr said. “Responsible citizenship is a virtue and participation in the political process is a moral obligation.”

He attempted to clear up misunderstandings about the U.S.

Conference of Catholic Bishops’ 2007 document “Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship,” which he helped write.

“Faithful citizenship is not about the religious practices of politicians,” Carr said. “It’s not about the political clout of religious groups. It’s not about ‘the Catholic vote,’ and it’s not about pastors or bishops telling us how to vote.”

Rather, it was written to help form people’s consciences and stimulate further insight, he said.

“We bring a moral framework,” Carr said. “The U.S. bishops’ focus is on moral principles, not polls.”

He added, “I believe Catholics tasked with political life must keep the values of their religion before them with a mature conscience and competence to realize them.”

The mission is clear and visible, he said, and it is built upon “the vision of John XXIII, the legacy of John Paul II, the teaching of Benedict XVI and the simple ways and powerful words of Pope Francis.”

For the latter, actions such as living in a small apartment, dining with the staff and washing the feet of male and female prison inmates on Holy Thursday all give insight into the man, Carr said.

Through his actions, Pope Francis

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Carr: Participating in political process ‘a moral obligation’

has shown his agenda, he said, listing human life and dignity, a priority for the poor, global solidarity, religious freedom, defense of the family, immigration reform, pursuit of peace and dialogue, and care for creation.

The new Institute for Catholicism and Pope Francis called politics “one of the Citizenship is an highest forms of enterprise of the charity because it St. Thomas theology serves the common department, under the good,” Carr noted, and leadership of Massimo he quoted the pope Faggioli, an assistant directly with regard to professor of theology. how to act in the John Carr lauded the political realm: institute as “an example “We must restore hope of how the University of to the young, aid to the St. Thomas can make an old, open ourselves to the even greater contribution future, spread love. We to the common good,” must be the poor among sharing the wisdom of the poor. We must include the excluded and Catholic social teaching preach peace.” and forming new leaders.

Carr added, “People Learn more at who are looking for www.stthomas.edu/icc.

Pope Francis to confirm their beliefs will be disappointed. He is a walking, talking parable, and in that way he teaches us more effectively than any encyclical ever could.”

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Consecrated Life

10

From left, Mother Mary Clare Roufs, Sister Mary Joseph Evans and her mother, Joan Evans, visit in the courtyard of the Cathedral of St. Paul. Mother Mary Clare and Sister Mary Joseph are with the Handmaids of the Heart of Jesus in the Diocese of New Ulm. Dave Hrbacek/The Catholic Spirit

By Jessica Trygstad The Catholic Spirit Delivering food to the convent meant that Joan Evans might catch a glimpse of her daughter. Her hopes didn’t disappoint. When she arrived, her daughter was outside washing a car, a task Mother Mary Clare Roufs had assigned so the two could have a chance to visit.

“Her heart is of love,” Evans said of Mother Mary Clare. “I appreciate that.”

Evans’ oldest daughter, Barbara — now Sister Mary Joseph — joined the Handmaids of the Heart of Jesus, a religious order in the Diocese of New Ulm, in 2012.

For Evans and her husband, Robley, parishioners of St. Joseph in West St. Paul, the past few years have brought many changes, among them, growing accustomed to limited contact with their daughter as she answers her call to serve God and his people.

Evans said the loss of their mother-daughter relationship was masked by the façade of having it all together as a “good Catholic mom.”

“It’s funny how you can feel joy, but also feel pain at the same time. I am so joyful for where she is and of who she is in that community,” Evans said, noting that they correspond primarily through letters. “But still being able to say, ‘Yes, I’m willing to sacrifice and let her go because that’s what God wants for her.’”

It wasn’t until Mother Mary Clare asked Evans to write about her feelings as a mother of a religious sister that she felt release from her guilt. Evans’ March 22 post on The New York Times’ “Motherlode”

May 7, 2015 • The Catholic Spirit

blog, “My Daughter Is Now Sister Mary Joseph, and No Longer Mine,” garnered more than 200 comments, many thanking her for her honesty and witness. Evans said through writing the article, she has found healing in the difficulty of the separation.

“Since Sister Mary Joseph told us that she was going to join the Handmaids, it was probably the first time that I really admitted to myself how hard it really was,” said Evans, the mother of six and grandmother of one, soon to be two. “I think I just pushed everything to the back because I felt I would be disloyal to her if I wasn’t happy about it at all times.”

Evans said she’s grateful to be in a place where she can face the pain and tears of missing her firstborn.

She appreciates the opportunities she gets to be with the Handmaids — including occasional public functions and biannual family days at the convent — but says it can be difficult.

“Some days when I’m with her and I can’t really be with her, I’m going to be OK with that. And other times, I’m going to feel deflated because I can’t just pull her aside,” she said.

Sister Mary Joseph, 32, who plans to take her final vows of poverty, chastity and obedience in 2017, said total availability is the new norm for showing people care and concern.

But for her and the other Handmaids, they give that total availability to God and therefore, all his children.

“I know there is a real death, especially between mothers and daughters, because often, there is that total availability there of mothers calling their daughters, and

vice versa, once they’re in their own vocation,” Sister Mary Joseph said.

“But it’s not for the sake of sacrifice.

What the Lord has created my heart for is to be totally available to him.

And that means I’m not totally available to my mother or to my biological family in the same way.”

Mother Mary Clare said sometimes the sisters’ moms feel like they’re being replaced, “But the truth is, our moms can never be replaced. They’re always going to be our moms. They’re always going to have a particular place of leading and guiding us.”

For the sisters, having another woman in their lives who can be a mother figure to help them be the women they need to be in the world is “a gift that God gives, similar to when someone gets married,” Mother Mary Clare said, adding that the Church’s language of father, mother, sister and brother reflects its familial nature.

Sister Mary Joseph said the qualities she witnessed in her mom have prepared her for a different kind of motherhood.

“What motherhood is all about is bringing new life into the world and then nurturing that life,” Sister Mary Joseph said. “Growing up, I always wanted to do what my mom did, and I always wanted to be like her. So, I don’t underestimate at all the formation I received in being a spiritual mother.”

The gift of Mother Mary Clare’s motherhood has shown Sister Mary Joseph how to relate to Jesus as his spouse.

“What greater gift does a mother give than helping her daughter enter into whatever vocation that is and to live it to the full?” Sister Mary Joseph said. “So I just see so

clearly how my mom and Mother [Mary Clare] have helped me do that gift through their own witness of love.”

Evans said she admires the Handmaids’ example and respects their charism.

“My vocation as a wife and a mother is only encouraged by a religious vocation and vice versa,” she said. “But the other thing I’ve come to see is that relationship with God is just so much more powerful if you’re willing to be who you are and to admit those times when you’re not feeling joy and happiness. For me, in acknowledging that there’s pain in it and there’s sacrifice in it, I think there’s been more freedom to actually see the beauty of God’s need for religious vocations.”

In all this, Mother Mary Clare said the Handmaids turn to Mary, asking her to help their families since she knows what it was like to lose a son.

“She has a lot to teach our own mothers in giving and surrendering their children for a good,” she said.

“The reason why she had to surrender Jesus . . . was because God chose him for a particular mission for the sake of the world. And as God has chosen each of our sisters for a particular mission for the sake of the world, there’s a cost that the family has to offer. God doesn’t ask us to offer anything that he hasn’t already chosen to give himself. Mary has already walked that road, so in some sense, our families aren’t alone in being asked something demanding of them. They actually fall in a line of a profound person who has gone before us and has done it so well.”

11

Interview by Maria Wiering The Catholic Spirit The Catholic Spirit asked Bishop Anthony Muheria of Kitui, Kenya, to share via e-mail how his community has been coping in the aftermath of reportedly anti-Christian massacres April 2 at Garissa University, 170 miles northeast of Kitui in a neighboring diocese.

Since 2004, the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis and the Diocese of Kitui have collaborated in a global solidarity partnership to share faith, culture and resources.

The following are Bishop Muheria’s responses. They have been edited for length and clarity. Read the entire interview at www.TheCatholicSpirit. com.

Q. Please describe the general feeling among Christians in Kenya in the wake of the attacks at Garissa University.

A. The attack in Garissa was a

great shock to the country. The entire nation was gripped by shock as this is the greatest tragedy on Kenyan soil.

The targeting of Christians by the terrorists from among their hostages has been repeated in all their attacks. It sends a very worrying signal and brings a religious element into this brand of terrorism that threatens the Christians.

This has caused anxiety among many Christians, and more so those living in the more vulnerable areas. Unfortunately, as is human, the attacks have also stirred feelings of bitterness for the tragic loss of their loved ones and also helplessness in view of poor response by the government forces or lack of reassurance of security.

We on our part are seeking to console these families, helping them to accept God’s will, to forgive, and even see the value of the sufferings of their loved ones and their own sufferings too, in the light of Christ’s sufferings. As has always happened in the history of the Church, the blood of these young men and women will confirm and strengthen even more the Christian faith.

Q. In a news interview, you suggested that there might be a “double standard” in the international response to atrocities in Europe and atrocities in Africa. Can you explain what you mean?

A. There seems to be a different standard applied when it comes to loss of lives. Whereas the number of lives lost in other tragic attacks may have been fewer, like the case of Charlie [Hebdo shooting] in France, the global leaders react

Bishop Anthony Muheria of Kitui, Kenya, in 2011 file photo. Since 2004, the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis and Kitui Diocese have collaborated in a global solidarity partnership to share faith, culture and resources. CNS differently in condemning and pledging assistance.

This begs the question: How much is a life worth? Is it worth more when the person is from the west than if they are from other marginalized areas? Every one of the 150 lives lost in Garissa, or the 700 lost in the Mediterranean Sea, are an immeasurable loss.

Q. What response would you like to see from the international community?

A. The kind of response we expect is first, a clear human solidarity, a solidarity of prayer where they join us in our prayers, a solidarity that commits to assist us to combat this brand of terrorism, and a clear voice in support and defense of the Christians. We expect more assistance in intelligence sharing and, where possible, sharing of expertise in anti-terrorism.

Q. You were in Rome to meet with Pope Francis. How can Catholics, specifically, help?

A. The meeting with Pope Francis was a wonderful encounter.

We had a chance to thank him for his closeness to us in this period.

The pope, on the other hand, encouraged us and exhorted us to keep going without fear. We, the Catholic bishops, felt re-energized and consoled by an understanding father. Above all, he promised us his prayers, and I would imagine that means channeling a good chunk of the prayers of the universal Church to the Church in Kenya.

For us Catholics, solidarity is an expression of the communion of the saints. The greatest help Catholics can give is an intense and constant prayer for the Christians in Kenya to have the courage called for in these moments, not to let up in their witnessing. Prayer for all

Kenyans so that we can build a true lasting peace. We need prayers to learn mercy, to learn to forgive and to heal the pain. Pray for us and with us. The struggle of the Catholics the world over, to live up to the faith and become the “light of the world” and the “salt of the earth,” will translate to spiritual energy, graces, sent to us all in order to live up to the demands of every moment.

I would encourage Catholics the world over to get acquainted with the situation of many Catholics under siege and persecution or in difficult circumstances in many places. We must accompany them from a distance. Perhaps this is one of the lessons I may have drawn from these events: We must truly be close in prayer to one another, and raise our voices on their behalf. Pope Francis encourages the Kenyan bishops not to be afraid to be the prophetic voices in our society. The Catholic and Christian leaders must articulate more and more these situations.

Q. You wrote on Facebook that although you are upset about the murders and persistent danger, you want to help others to forgive, not to “give room to hatred” and revenge, and to pray for the conversion of those seeking to hurt Christians. How are you working to help change people’s hearts?

A. It is a human reaction faced with such tragedies to feel anger against the perpetrators, which can even lead to hatred. But as Christians, our strength is charity.

We realize it can be really heroic to forgive, and so we are trying to accompany the families and to console them. It is a process that takes time, and we count on God’s grace, especially in this Year of Mercy declared by the Holy Father.

I have also written a pastoral letter to my Christians, encouraging them on these lines.

Sometimes the heroism asked of us is not a loud heroism of external recognition. I believe there is true heroism in this silent forgiving and acceptance to pray for these perpetrators. We are also exhorting them to take advantage of graces won by these, our brothers and sisters, to witness even more courageously to their faith.

Q. What else would you like us to know?

A. I am so grateful because one of the first messages of condolences and solidarity came from Archbishop John Nienstedt. This shows the closeness of spirit that the partnership has created between the two dioceses and between us, the shepherds. May God bless you mightily!

Elizabeth Tromans, an emergency response coordinator for Catholic Relief Services, helps earthquake victims register for the distribution of relief items in the village of Gorkha, Nepal, May 3.

CNS

U.S. & World

Kenya bishop responds to terrorist acts with message of hope, forgiveness

Week after quake, trucks of aid begin reaching remote areas of Nepal

By Anto Akkara Catholic News Service Truckloads of relief material organized by church charities began moving across Nepal a week after the Himalayan nation was rocked by a magnitude-7.8 earthquake April 25.

“I am glad that much-needed aid is finally beginning to reach remote areas,” Greg Auberry, Catholic Relief Services’ regional director for East and South Asia, told Catholic News Service May 4.

Auberry had just returned to Kathmandu from Gorkha — just 85 miles from the capital but five hours of rough mountain drive — where CRS and Caritas Nepal staff had distributed relief material like tarps, dry rations, hygiene Archbishop John items and water Nienstedt has asked all purification tablets. parishes of the “Given the archdiocese to take a mountainous terrain, getting relief supplies to second collection on even the most May 16-17 to support the convenient locations for efforts of Catholic Relief people to collect them is Services as they provide not easy. It took CRS emergency shelter, several hours with small blankets, and water tractors — one getting stuck — to get the treatment and hygiene tarpaulins and kits to more than 50,000 household supplies to people. According to the the village of Bukrang Center for Mission, which near Gorkha,” said promotes global outreach Auberry, who oversaw in the archdiocese, funds relief distribution in the are badly needed as the region May 3.

“People walked miles scope and short and to come,” he added. long-term needs are Nine days after the expected to expand as quake, the Nepal more areas become government revised the accessible. death toll to more than 7,200 killed and 14,300 injured, while thousands have gone missing.

Father Pius Perumana, Caritas Nepal director, said that besides the CRS contingent, officials of a dozen national Caritas affiliates like CAFOD, Cordaid and Caritas of nearly a dozen countries had reached Nepal to augment the church relief work.

How you can help Nepal

May 7, 2015 • The Catholic Spirit

U.S. & World

12

At seminary, Pope defends Blessed Serra

By Cindy Wooden Catholic News Service People seem to enjoy finding the shortcomings of candidates for sainthood like Blessed Junipero Serra, but they should ask themselves if they would have his generosity and courage to leave everything behind to care for the poor and bring them the Gospel, Pope Francis said.

Visiting the Pontifical North American College, the U.S. seminary in Rome, Pope Francis insisted Blessed Serra fits into a host of saints who shaped the history and culture of the Americas, particularly by spreading Christianity, caring for the poor and defending the oppressed.

The pope’s Mass May 2 with 250 seminarians from more than 100 U.S. dioceses, as well as Australia and Canada, came at the end of a symposium on Blessed Serra organized by the seminary, the “Such zeal excites us, Pontifical it challenges us!”

Commission for Latin America, the Pope Francis Archdiocese of Los Angeles and the Knights of Columbus.

Although the college is on the Janiculum Hill overlooking the Vatican, Pope Francis’ was the first papal visit to the campus since 1980, when St. John Paul II visited.

Pope Francis is scheduled to canonize Blessed Serra, the 18th-century Spanish missionary to California, during his September trip to the United States. “This meeting at your college and around the eucharistic table is a beautiful and meaningful introduction to my apostolic trip to the United States of America,” he told the students, staff, bishops and cardinals at the Mass.

Giving his homily in Italian, Pope Francis noted how Spanish missionaries in the 16th century had preached the Gospel across what is now the southern and southwestern United States from Florida to California. “This was long before the pilgrims of the Mayflower reached the North Atlantic coast,” he noted.

While critics of the canonization have claimed that Blessed Serra was part of a system that destroyed native cultures and that he abused Native Americans at his missions, Pope Francis said Blessed Serra, like other Catholic missionaries in the Americas,

By Laura Ieraci Catholic News Service

Pope Francis kisses a relic of Blessed Junipero Serra presented by Archbishop Jose Gomez of Los Angeles at the conclusion of Mass celebrated at the Pontifical North American College in Rome May 2. It was the first papal visit to the U.S. seminary since 1980. The pope said that while some people seem to relish the idea of listing Blessed Serra’s defects, he wondered how many would have the courage he had to leave everything and preach the Gospel. CNS “defended the indigenous peoples against abuses by the colonizers.”

Referring to the Franciscan missionary as “Fra Junipero,” Pope Francis said the Spaniard was motivated by a desire to share the Gospel with the indigenous peoples of the Americas.

“He was filled with joy and the Holy Spirit in spreading the word of the Lord,” the pope said.

“Such zeal excites us, it challenges us!”

People study the lives and works of the missionaries, he said. They look at their strengths and, unfortunately, especially “their weaknesses and their shortcomings.”

“But I wonder if today we are able to respond with the same generosity and courage to the call of God, who invites us to leave everything in order to worship him, to follow him, to rediscover him in the face of the poor, to proclaim him to those who have not known Christ and, therefore, have not experienced the embrace of his mercy,” the pope said.

As is customary, Pope Francis asked the congregation at the college to pray for him, and he entrusted his July trip to South America and his September trip to Cuba and the United States to the protection of “Our Lady of Guadalupe, Fra Junipero and all the American saints.”

Baltimore Catholics strive to heal, clean up city

By Christopher Gunty and Erik Zygmont Catholic News Service As Baltimore cleaned up after a night of riots, looting and fires following the funeral of Freddie Gray, Archbishop William Lori said the Church’s place is to pray, be a voice for peace and participate in a wider community dialogue to solve the systemic issues that led to the unrest.

Gray, 25, died April 19, one week after being arrested on a weapons charge and sustaining a severe spinal cord injury in West Baltimore while in police custody.

After his funeral April 27, peaceful protests turned into unrest later in the day, leading to damage of buildings and cars, and looting and fires seen nonstop on national TV news networks.

The next morning, as Archbishop Lori, Auxiliary Bishop Denis Madden and other archdiocesan leaders toured the West Baltimore neighborhoods affected,

May 7, 2015 • The Catholic Spirit

Pope: ‘Scandal’ of gender inequality, fear of marriage must be addressed

“We need to strengthen our communities that they might be a force of peace.”

Archbishop William Lori

adults and children with brooms and trash bags were as numerous as the rioters the night before.

Archbishop Lori said during the unrest he called as many West Baltimore pastors as he could, and spoke to many of them.

“We will continue to do a lot of work, especially through Bishop Madden and the city pastors, especially on the west side,” he said.

“First of all, let’s pray. . . . We need to strengthen our communities that they might be a force of peace. We need to participate vigorously in a citywide dialogue on the systemic issues that have really bubbled up to the surface here,” the archbishop said. “It seems that’s our role in this.”

Willa and Brendan Walsh of the Baltimore Catholic Worker Viva House, located several blocks from the violence, said they received many phone calls and emails inquiring about their safety. They responded in a statement on what they saw as the roots of the destruction.

“The unrest and anger are the results of decades of unemployment (over 50 percent in our ZIP code), decades of miserable, uninhabitable housing, decades of under-funded, chaotic schools, decades of the drug trade, and, it goes without saying, centuries of racism,” the Walshes wrote.

Two millennia after the “Gospel of the family” defeated an abusive social practice that humiliated women, the “radical equality” of spouses in Christian marriage must now bear “new fruit” in society, including “the right to equal pay for equal work,” Pope Francis said.

This “disparity” between men and women in the workplace is “a pure scandal,” he said April 29.

Continuing a series of audience talks about marriage, the pope said Jesus demonstrated his great fondness and solicitude for marriage and family when he changed water into wine at the wedding at Cana.

The love between man and woman in marriage is “God’s masterpiece,” the pope said, straying from his prepared remarks. Though Jesus’ message to married couples is always the same, “many things have changed” since then, he said.

Today there are fewer marriages, more marriage breakups and fewer children, the pope noted. Family and marital bonds are broken with “always greater frequency and speed,” and children are always “the biggest victims,” he said.

Though young people rank family first as a social indicator for happiness, many give up on the idea of “an irrevocable bond” and of a long-lasting family life. “For fear of failure, many do not even want to think about (marriage),” Christian youth included, he said.

“I believe we need to reflect with great seriousness about why many young people ‘don’t feel’ like getting married,” the pope said.

Why do they “often prefer cohabitation” and why do “they have so little faith in marriage and family?”

The pope dismissed economic difficulties as a major factor, “even if these are truly serious.”

The argument that marriage has changed in recent decades because of women’s emancipation “is not valid either,” he said. “This is an insult. It is not true,” he added. “It is a form of chauvinism that wants to dominate the woman” and that follows in the footsteps of Adam who blamed Eve because he ate the apple.

Pope Francis urged Christians to be unafraid to invite Jesus to their “wedding feast” and into their homes.

“When Christians marry ‘in the Lord,’” he continued, “they are transformed into an efficacious sign of God’s love. Christians do not marry only for themselves; they marry in the Lord for the benefit of the whole community, all of society.”

Graduates

May 7, 2015 • The Catholic Spirit • Page 13

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ach year, The Catholic Spirit celebrates graduating seniors in the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis by asking a selection of them to reflect on their past, present and future.

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Chosen by their Catholic schools and parishes, these students have an array of backgrounds, talents and aspirations, but we noticed several commonalities among the 20 featured this year: Four plan to serve with NET Ministries before starting college, four mentioned Steubenville Youth Conferences having a role in their most significant faith experiences, three named St. Mary Magdalene as the historical figure with whom they’d like to talk, and four noted they were inspired by Blessed Mother Teresa of Kolkota. All shared a vibrant faith and big dreams. Unique to this year’s selection is the inclusion of twin brothers graduating from Providence Academy. The Catholic Spirit edited for length and clarity. Read the full responses at www.TheCatholicSpirit.com/graduates.

Academy of Holy Angels, Richfield • Baccalaureate Mass – 6:30 p.m. June 3 at Academy of Holy Angels with celebrant Father Michael Tix. • Commencement – 4 p.m. June 7 at Academy of Holy Angels; 155 graduates.

Benilde-St. Margaret’s School, St. Louis Park • Baccalaureate Mass – May 17 with celebrant Father Tim Wozniak.

• Commencement – 7 p.m. May 29 at BenildeSt. Margaret’s School (tickets required); 222 graduates.

Bethlehem Academy, Faribault • Baccalaureate Mass – 7:30 p.m. May 20 at Divine Mercy Church.

• Commencement – 8 p.m. May 22 at the Bethlehem Academy Van Orsow Auditorium; 38 graduates.

Convent of the Visitation, Mendota Heights • Baccalaureate Mass – 10:30 a.m. May 17 at Visitation Monastery Chapel.

• Commencement – 3 p.m. June 7 at Visitation School with speaker Visitation Sister Mary Paula McCarthy, class of 1947; 86 graduates.

Cretin-Derham Hall, St. Paul • Baccalaureate Mass – 9 a.m. May 27 at Lumen Christi Catholic Community with celebrant Father

John Forliti.

• Commencement – 7:30 p.m. May 27 at the Cathedral of St. Paul; 315 graduates.

Cristo Rey Jesuit High School, Minneapolis • Baccalaureate Mass – 6:30 p.m. June 12 at Cristo Rey Jesuit High School.

• Commencement – 2 p.m. June 13 at Cristo Rey Jesuit High School; 65 graduates.

DeLaSalle High School, Minneapolis • Baccalaureate Mass – 6:30 p.m. May 20 at DeLaSalle High School with celebrant Father Kevin Kenney, class of 1978 and DeLaSalle trustee.

• Commencement – 6:45 p.m. May 21 at the Basilica of St. Mary in Minneapolis with Bishop Andrew Cozzens; 203 graduates.

Hill-Murray, Maplewood • Graduation Mass and Commencement – 7:30 p.m.

June 5 at the Cathedral of St. Paul; 155 graduates.

Holy Family Catholic High School, Victoria • Baccalaureate Mass – 2 p.m. May 17 at St. Victoria Church in Victoria with celebrant Father Bob White.

• Commencement – 7 p.m. May 20 at Holy Family Catholic High School; 106 graduates.

Providence Academy, Plymouth • Baccalaureate Mass – 4 p.m. May 29 at the Basilica of St. Mary in Minneapolis with celebrant Bishop Andrew Cozzens.

• Commencement – 8 p.m. May 29 at Providence Academy with speaker Robert Cummins; 73 graduates.

St. Agnes School, St. Paul • Baccalaureate Mass – 11 a.m. May 28 at St. Agnes Church with celebrant Father Mark Moriarty.

• Commencement – 7 p.m. May 29 at St. Agnes School, Gruden Gymnasium with speaker Teresa Collett, J.D., professor at the University of St. Thomas School of Law; 46 graduates.

St. Thomas Academy, Mendota Heights • Baccalaureate Mass – 7:30 p.m. May 26 at St. Thomas Academy with celebrant Father Thomas F.A. O’Brien.

• Commencement – 7:30 p.m. May 28 at the Cathedral of St. Paul with Bishop Andrew Cozzens; 138 graduates.

Totino-Grace High School, Fridley

• Baccalaureate Mass – 7 p.m. May 27 at St. Odilia in Shoreview.

• Commencement – 7 p.m. May 29 at Totino-Grace High School (tickets required); 203 graduates.

14

Graduates

May 7, 2015 • The Catholic Spirit

Elizabeth Wollan

Trent Wiebusch

Trey Wiebusch

Convent of the Visitation, Mendota Heights

Providence Academy, Plymouth

Providence Academy, Plymouth

Wiebusch attends St. Anne in Hamel. His parents are Brent and the late Laurie Wiebusch. Along with his twin brother, Trey, he plans to serve with NET Ministries before attending Grinnell College in Grinnell, Iowa.

Wiebusch attends St. Anne in Hamel. His parents are Brent and the late Laurie Wiebusch. Along with his twin brother, Trent, he plans to serve with NET Ministries before attending Grinnell College in Grinnell, Iowa.

What is the greatest lesson you learned in high school?

What is the greatest lesson you learned in high school?

Wollan is a parishioner of Nativity of Our Lord in St. Paul.

Her parents are Robert and Carolyn Wollan. She plans to attend Boston College in Boston, Massachusetts.

What is the greatest lesson you learned in high school?

There is a grace in being authentic in relationships.

You develop loving, nourishing relationships by letting those around you in to see your true self.

If you could have an audience with Pope Francis, what would you discuss with him?

I would discuss how best the youth of today can provide a faith-filled example in the Church.

Describe the most significant faith experience you have had during high school.

This year a couple of classmates and I planned a schoolwide prayer service to pray for the kidnapped Nigerian schoolgirls. We gave each student a name of a Nigerian girl as a tangible reminder of these girls halfway across the world our same ages with our same goals — to learn and grow as young women in order to share the future of our world.

Who is a spiritual role model for your Catholic faith?

The Visitation Sisters have guided and mentored me with a loving, compassionate example of the Catholic faith.

What can the Catholic Church do to keep you and other young adults engaged in the life of the Church?

Keep showing us that you are listening, and that our opinions are valuable and vital to the present and future of the Church. Help us understand doctrine, and understand that we value tradition but want to continue to question, develop and grow with our faith.

What are the top three things that you hope to accomplish in your life?

I hope to get married and raise a family, get involved with Teach for America, and work with the United Nations to help defend a woman’s right to education and promote global literacy.

Congratulations to the Class of

2015!

Cretin-Derham Hall

Catholic Academic Leadership Community Equity Diversity Service 550 S. Albert St. St. Paul, MN 55116 651-690-2443 www.c-dh.org

The greatest lesson I learned in high school was to be a patient and diligent man. Providence Academy forms its young men and women to be people of faith, knowledge and virtue. I fought through three surgeries while in high school, as well as the death of my mother, due to breast cancer, when I was in middle school. I learned a lot about what truly matters in life as I grew in perseverance and patience. Ultimately, how to authentically love someone as a brother or sister in Christ: that was the greatest lesson of all, and PA was instrumental in teaching it.

If you could have an audience with Pope Francis, what would you discuss with him?

In a conversation with Pope Francis, I would discuss matters of improving Christian church unity among the many denominations.

Describe the most significant faith experience you have had during high school.

The most significant faith experience I had in high school was in the winter of my junior year when right after adoration had ended, I was asked by my dear friend what I thought was in the tabernacle. I was a Lutheran at the time, and I responded that I knew in my heart that Jesus Christ, Body, Blood, Soul and Divinity, was present in that chapel and that I thirsted for him. This thirst was quenched when that following June, I converted to Catholicism and was confirmed into the Catholic Church on Pentecost, receiving my Lord for the first time as a Catholic.

If you could have a conversation with a historical figure, who would it be and why?

I would love to speak with J.R.R. Tolkien about his Catholic faith and how it influenced his career as an author and professor.

The greatest lesson that I have learned in high school is how to become an authentic and chivalric Christian man.

Describe the most significant faith experience you have had during high school.

The most significant faith experience I have had was during my senior retreat this past December. In particular, there was a small group session and then eucharistic adoration, and both were very powerful and helped reveal the love of God to me in awesome ways.

Also, my conversion to Catholicism played a huge role in my life and has formed me in incredible ways.

If you could go back in time five years, what advice would you give yourself?

I would tell myself to be more loving towards others and to start a brotherhood sooner. Currently, my very close friends and I are in a brotherhood focusing on living as Catholic men in the modern world. This practice is awesome and includes great spiritual fruits. I wish that we had started this brotherhood five years ago instead of this past year, as the growth would be that much more powerful.

What are the top three things that you hope to accomplish in you life?

First, find the will of God in every decision and do it, for Divine Providence works in awesome ways and the will of God is never for ill. I trust that he will care for me and form me into the man he calls me to be.

Secondly, I hope to work in a field where each and every day I love working there and bring glory to God. I am currently undecided in my future career, but I aim to do something I love to do. Finally, I hope to continue to learn about and live out authentic manhood, and then pass it on to my sons and other young men.

Graduates

May 7, 2015 • The Catholic Spirit

15

Alberto Vergara-Zuniga

Claire Roth

Samuel Thueson

Cristo Rey Jesuit High School, Minneapolis

Holy Family Catholic High School, Victoria

Stillwater Area High School, Stillwater

Vergara-Zuniga attends Assumption in Richfield. His parents are Alberto Vergara and Elvia Zuniga. He plans to attend St. John’s University in Collegeville.

Roth attends St. Hubert in Chanhassen. Her parents are Kent and Joan Roth. She plans to attend the College of St. Benedict in St. Joseph.

Thueson attends St. Michael in Stillwater. His parents are Patrick and Luba Thueson. He plans to attend St. Mary’s University of Minnesota in Winona.

If you could have an audience with Pope Francis, what would you discuss with him?

Name one thing you are proud of accomplishing in high school.

If you could have an audience with Pope Francis, what would you discuss with him?

One very important aspect in my life is leadership. I was taught that leadership is meant to serve others. I would love to know how to better enhance my leadership skills by knowing how the pope has seen the most effective leaders work. I would want to know how he fully understands leadership.

Describe the most significant faith experience you have had during high school.

My sophomore year was the time when I had my most significant faith experience. I was diagnosed with a brain tumor and would have to undergo surgery.

My life seemed completely normal, and I had put in so much hard work to earn my spot at school and at sports.

This surgery was scheduled to take me out of my daily life for three months. Recovering from my surgery was the most difficult time that I have spent. I blamed God for so much, yet he was the only reason I was able to make it through and wake up every day.

It strengthened my faith when I was back up in about a month and completely caught up with school in another month. My bond with God grew so strong that there is almost nothing that I would not trust him with.

Who is a spiritual role model for your Catholic faith?

My dad is my most important role model for me, especially with my Catholic faith. He has brought me into this wonderful life and has shown me how to stand

by God.

My high school years have given me an opportunity to explore my faith, discover my strengths and acquire leadership skills. As I graduate, I now feel more confident and prepared to face future challenges with an increased belief in my personal abilities.

I would like to discuss ways to remind people how amazing and beautiful our faith is and how we can show the world the joy in our faith.

Describe the most significant faith experience you have had during high school.

At my parish winter retreat I felt very sick going into adoration on the last night of the retreat. I was wondering how I was going to make it through the night and adoration, and I was feeling worse by the minute, and then Father did something unexpected. He brought the monstrance in front of each of us individually, and as soon as I looked up, all of that pain just melted away that instant. I was fine the rest of the night.

The most significant faith experience I had in high school took place on a mission trip that was offered through my school and the Healing Haiti organization.

This trip gave me the incredible opportunity to visit Haiti and witness firsthand the poverty and hunger of a Third World country. Amongst all the devastation and hardships these people endured, I was surprised to find such joy and faith in God.

Who is a spiritual role model for your Catholic faith?

Growing up I looked to my grandparents as models of what it meant to be Catholic — to love others unconditionally and to be active in service to others.

They taught me the importance of faith, family, prayer and the power they carry. They bestowed these beliefs upon my parents, and collectively my grandparents and parents continue to guide me in my faith and encourage me to be a servant leader.

What are the top three things that you hope to accomplish in your life?

I’d like to use my strengths to earn a medical degree, experience different cultures, and perform missionary work while traveling the world.

Describe the most significant faith experience you have had during high school.

Who is a spiritual role model for your Catholic faith?

Lawrence of Rome. He recognized the poor as the treasure of the Church and gave the Church all he had, even his life.

What can the Catholic Church do to keep you and other young adults engaged in the life of the Church?

Too many of the youth of the Church are scared away by the complexity of the Church, but we need to be reminded that the core message of the Church is to love each other.

If you could have a conversation with a historical figure, who would it be and why?

Tchaikovsky. Very few people have felt as much pain, and yet he still wrote such beautiful music.

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you may abound in hope by the power of the holy Spirit.

-Romans 15:13

Valedictorian Peter Morgan

Salutatorian William Phillips

Congratulations to the class of

2015

8101 Kochia Lane Victoria, MN 55386 www.hfchs.org 952-443-4659

16

Graduates

Maddi Dorrain Forest Lake Area High School, Forest Lake Dorrain attends St. Peter in Forest Lake.

Her parents are Dan and Joan Dorrain.

She plans to attend Winona State University.

Name one thing you are proud of accomplishing in high school.

This year, I was privileged to qualify for the state tournament for speech. During my speech career, it was my dream to go to state, and I worked incredibly hard this season to have the opportunity to compete, and I am grateful for it.

Describe the most significant faith experience you have had during high school.

This past year I really struggled with what I was going to do after high school. I had my heart set on taking a year off of school and doing missionary work. However, God had a different plan. I had doubts, but I learned that I needed to trust him and he will take care of me because he has a plan for me. I am excited to see where the Lord takes me in college.

What book did you read in high school that most changed the way you think?

This year I read “Giovanni’s Room” by James Baldwin. The book has some messages that the Catholic Church doesn’t agree with, but it opened my eyes that there are going to be people throughout my life that are going to believe different things than what I believe, and I still have to love them. Ultimately, reading the book made what I believe stronger.

What can the Catholic Church do to keep you and other young adults engaged in the life of the Church?

It is so unbelievably important to have a personal relationship with Jesus. I think that many people leave the Church because they don’t have that.

Patrick Hunter Benilde-St. Margaret’s School, St. Louis Park Hunter attends St. Bartholomew in Wayzata. His parents are Doug and Julianne Hunter. He plans to attend Boston College in Boston, Massachusetts.

What is the greatest lesson you’ve learned in high school?

Ultimately, the greatest lesson I have learned in high school is to take risks. Life is a series of choices, and those choices are not always easy ones. In my time at Benilde-St. Margaret’s, I have learned to step outside of my comfort zone and pursue new things.

Name one thing you are proud of accomplishing in high school.

Throughout my four years at BSM, I am most proud of my academic and personal growth. One of my initial goals as a freshman at BSM was to be the valedictorian of my graduating class; I have achieved this. But, equally importantly, what I have also learned is how to be a critical thinker — how to see multiple sides of an issue, how to seek to understand the viewpoints of others and how to integrate Catholic social teaching into our work as students and people.

If you could have an audience with Pope Francis, what would you discuss with him?

If I had the opportunity to meet with Pope Francis, I would want to discuss with him the Church in today’s modern society and how the Church can continue to reach the people of the world in a society with so many distractions and forces that oppose the Catholic faith and values. I would like to know his vision for our Church, and how he aims to see it achieved.

Who is a spiritual role model for your Catholic faith?

My grandparents are spiritual role models for my Catholic faith.

Both remind me of the need for faith in my life.

Keeping the

By Anthony Gockowski For The Catholic Spirit

faith

A

s the end of the school year approaches, collegebound Catholic high school seniors face important decisions as they prepare to leave home — including how they plan to deepen their faith.

According to a 2008 CARA study, only 68 percent of students who grow up in the faith will remain Catholic as an adult. Derek Waldbillig, a missionary for St. Paul’s Outreach, offered this advice to the class of 2015 to avoid falling into the 32 percent: “The Lord tells us this: He who walks with the wise will become wise, but the companion of fools will suffer harm. In other words, surround yourselves with people who will challenge and call you on to become the best Catholic Christian you can be.”

The Catholic Spirit asked Catholics in college-focused apostolates to offer tips on keeping the faith: 1. Pray daily. “It doesn’t have to be a rosary, adoration, or daily Mass, but a simple 15 minutes of time in silence talking with the Lord is essential for our lives, especially in big transitions like this,” said Waldbillig, a Catholic from All Saints, Lakeville, now serving at Benedictine College in Atchison, Kansas.

Phil Stone, the Fellowship of Catholic University Students (FOCUS) team director at Minnesota State University in Mankato, emphasized the importance of developing a prayer schedule. “It is important to find time each day for silent reflection and to talk to Jesus as a friend. Choose a

Ca off co

time that you will do this every day. First thing in the m so that you can invite God into the rest of your day,” he

2. Seek accountability. “Find one person who know important to you and is honest enough to tell you if your line up with your goals,” Stone said. Waldbillig sugges group on campus. “Being able to share your life with oth he said.

3. Read good books. Several campus experts recom spiritual text to help prepare for college. Some common “Introduction to the Devout Life” by St. Francis de Sales God” by Jacques Philippe. “You need to be reading book about yourself and your faith,” Stone added.

4. Step outside of yourself. New people and experi overwhelming for many college freshmen, but accepting important lesson to learn in college. “Don’t sit back and Waldbillig. “Do not be afraid to introduce yourself or inv group of people.”

Daniel Foley, president of the Fraternity of St. Michae group of men who live together under the direction of th Catholic Studies at the University of St. Thomas, echoed friend group will eventually narrow down, but go meet e away.”

Kaitlyn Gathje, a St. Thomas peer minister, added: “E scared as you are. Don’t be discouraged if good friends immediately.”

May 7, 2015 • The Catholic Spirit

Graduates

17

Christopher Kettler St. Thomas Academy, Mendota Heights Kettler attends St. Joseph in West St. Paul. His parents are Timothy and Nancy Kettler. He plans to attend the University of Minnesota Carlson School of Management.

Name one thing you are proud of accomplishing in high school.

I am very proud to be one of the highest-ranking cadets at St. Thomas Academy. I entered as a shy 14-year-old boy and matured into a confident individual who is well prepared to take on any challenge that the future has to offer.

If you could have an audience with Pope Francis, what would you discuss with him?

I would have a discussion about how he found God in his life. I am curious as to how God showed him signs to guide him to be the most influential Catholic in the world.

What book did you read in high school that most changed the way you think?

The book “Unbroken” by Laura Hillenbrand was inspirational to me. Louis Zamperini, the main character and World War II survivor, taught me how to live my life with perseverance, strength and determination. I now look at challenges more optimistically and a desire to achieve.

If you could have a conversation with a historical figure, who would it be and why?

If I could talk to any historical figure, I would talk to Mahatma Gandhi. His ability to influence those around him is something I would want to learn from. He is an inspiration to many by explaining that the way in which you live your life is how you send your message to future generations to follow.

Anna Marquard Bethlehem Academy, Faribault Students pray at Mass at St. Mary’s Chapel at the St. Paul Seminary; the chapel’s crucifix; and students kneel during a sports event. Courtesy St. Paul’s Outreach

ampus ministers fer 10 tips for ollege-bound Catholics

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5. Serve. Summer is the perfect season for students to volunteer their time. “Find a way to get involved with volunteering at the local church, at the college, or the local community,” Waldbillig said. Stone also encouraged students to volunteer. “Think of ways to help others, whether it’s physical labor by mowing the lawn in front of your church or reading to an elderly relative or neighbor,” he said.

Marquard is the daughter of Steve and Mary Marquard. She attends Divine Mercy in Faribault. She plans to serve with NET Ministries before attending Benedictine College in 2016.

Describe the most significant faith experience you have had during high school.

Eucharistic adoration during Extreme Faith Camp definitely stands out to me as one of the most significant faith experiences during high school. I have helped as a prayer team member and a small group leader for the past few summers. Each year, during the night of adoration, the Lord has revealed amazing things about his love for me and has shown me how each time we allow him into our hearts, he will show us something new.

What book did you read in high school that most changed the way you think?

This year, my world literature class read “A Tale of Two Cities,” and this book showed me so much about the power of sacrificial love. The character of Sydney Carton was able to completely change his life and find his purpose because of sacrificial love.

Who is a spiritual role model for your Catholic faith?

My parents and friends have given me such a strong foundation for developing and living out my Catholic faith, but I would say that one of my biggest spiritual role models is my brother, Father Luke Marquard. His surrender to God’s plan has inspired me to discern God’s will in my own life, and he continuously encourages me to live not for comfort, but for greatness!

6. Exercise habit. Establishing a routine and sticking to it is important in the life of a college student. “Your good habits are what will carry you,“ Gathje said.

Carly McDonald

7. Make your education your own. College is a time to study what you are interested in and take the classes you would like to take. “Don’t always listen to your advisor,” Foley said. “Just study what you would like to study.”

McDonald attends St. Nicholas in Elko New Market. Her parents are Pat and Amy McDonald. She plans to attend Franciscan University of Steubenville in Steubenville, Ohio.

Lakeville South High School, Lakeville

What is the greatest lesson you learned in high school?

8. Stand firm. College will test your faith. “Don’t believe the phrase ‘everyone is doing it,’ because it’s not true,” said Waldbillig.

I went on a mission trip to an orphanage in Honduras during my junior year of high school. All of the kids were really happy and strong in their faith. That taught me that no matter how little you have, you will always have your faith, which is the most important thing.

9. Go to Sunday Mass and confession. Stone encouraged students to start participating regularly in the sacraments this summer.

Describe the most significant faith experience you have had during high school.

10. Prepare. Take time to find communities on campus before arriving.

Many campuses have a Newman Center, a FOCUS or SPO community, and some Catholic fraternities and centers. “Start thinking now about how you will keep your faith strong through new temptations,” Waldbillig suggested.

Who is a spiritual role model for your Catholic faith?

I went to my first Steubenville Youth Conference the summer after my freshman year and it changed my life. It was there that I really made my faith my own and I found a new appreciation for our Catholic beliefs.

My spiritual role model is Father James Adams. He was the priest at our church for most of my time in high school. He taught me to be on fire about my faith and inspired me because he was always so involved with youth at our church.

18

Graduates

May 7, 2015 • The Catholic Spirit

Joseph Weiler

Amy Robbins

Carl Modl

Totino-Grace High School, Fridley

Home-schooled

Cretin-Derham Hall, St. Paul

Weiler attends St. Charles Borromeo in St. Anthony. His parents are Dan and Carol Weiler. He plans to attend the University of Notre Dame in Notre Dame, Indiana.

Robbins attends Holy Family in St. Louis Park. Her parents are Mike and Tina Robbins. She plans to serve with NET Ministries before attending Benedictine College in Atchison, Kansas.

Name one thing you are proud of accomplishing in high school.

I am proud of being a captain of our football team and of how we grew together throughout the season.

We matured and developed as men.

Our football season was successful, but what stands out were the tremendous and lasting lessons from our coaches, from each other, and from our manager, Rachel Woell, who passed away during the season.

We were so privileged to accompany her on her journey home to God.

Describe the most significant faith experience you have had during high school.

In the past year, my grade has lost two classmates.

Although it was difficult at times to feel God’s presence in the midst of loss, our school was able to come together to support each other and pray together. Since then, prayer and the Mass have taken on a whole new meaning in my life.

Who is a spiritual role model for your Catholic faith?

Matt Birk, a former professional football player, is someone who I admire and try to emulate because of how he roots his life in faith and how he acts as a genuine, Catholic man.

If you could go back in time five years, what advice would you give yourself?

Volunteer as much as you can. You’ll find that the people you serve with and those you serve are some of the most kind and insightful you’ll meet.

Name one thing you are proud of accomplishing in high school.

Discovering who I am and staying true to myself.

If you could have an audience with Pope Francis, what would you discuss with him?

Honestly, I would probably stand there and smile stupidly. But if I got over my awe, I would ask him about the importance of family and marriage in secular culture today.

What can the Catholic Church do to keep you and other young adults engaged in the life of the Church?

Help us see the Catholic faith as a living thing, something powerful and exciting. For so many young people, the faith is a chore or just another class they had to attend at school and is not a relevant part of their lives. Show us how incredible and mind-blowing the Catholic faith really is.

If you could have a conversation with a historical figure, who would it be and why?

I would talk to Mary Magdalene. I want to know what it was like being so close to Jesus during his years of ministry on earth, how she knew he was God, and how she found the courage to follow him through everything, even his passion and death.

What are the top three things that you hope to accomplish in your life?

Pursue my love for theatre and the stage, get married to a wonderful man and have as many children as God thinks I can handle, and spread the joy of Jesus’ love everywhere I go.

Greece and Turkey:

In the Footsteps of St. Paul ISTANBUL • NICEA • TROY • ASSOS EPHESUS • CRETE • PATMOS • SANTORINI RHODES • CORINTH • ATHENS

September 8-20, 2015 $4,595 (plus optional group air travel $1,895)

Thirteen-day tour, including air travel from Minneapolis/St. Paul, four-star hotels, and most meals

Modl attends Holy Spirit in St. Paul. His parents are Thomas and Maureen Modl. He plans to attend the University of Minnesota Twin Cities.

If you could have an audience with Pope Francis, what would you discuss with him?

If I could talk with Pope Francis, I would ask him about his experience in Argentina and what he learned from serving the people there.

Describe the most significant faith experience you have had during high school.

My most significant faith experience happened when my friend Max died during our junior year. It was a tough time for me and a lot of my friends, and it initially left me questioning my faith, but it ultimately grew stronger. A lot of that had to do with who Max was and the faith that he had. It inspired me in a way.

The whole experience taught me the importance of faith in times of struggle.

Who is a spiritual role model for your Catholic faith?

My mother is definitely my spiritual role model. She really lives her faith, and her example and guidance have helped me be a better Catholic.

What are the top three things that you hope to accomplish in your life?

One thing I really want to accomplish in my life is finding a profession that allows me to help other people and make their lives tangibly better. Another thing I want to accomplish is traveling abroad to several different continents. And finally, I’d love to be able to settle down with someone and raise a family at some point. If I can do these three things, I’ll die a happy man.

Happy Mother’s Day, Mom! 11/24/36 – 1/29/15

We miss you so, and will love you always!

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Graduates

May 7, 2015 • The Catholic Spirit

19

Maria Godinez

Connor McGinnis

Michelle Gutzmann

Hill-Murray School, Maplewood

Holy Angels, Richfield

St. Agnes School, St. Paul

Godinez attends Ascension in Minneapolis. Her parents are Ernesto and Maria Godinez. She plans to attend the College of Biological Science at the University of Minnesota Twin Cities.

McGinnis attends All Saints in Lakeville. His parents are Karl Zgoda and Sharon McGinnis. He plans to attend the University of St. Thomas in St. Paul.

Gutzmann attends St. Charles Borromeo in St. Anthony. Her parents are Mark and Jane Gutzmann. She plans to attend the University of Minnesota Twin Cities.

What is the greatest lesson you learned in high school?

What is the greatest lesson you learned in high school?

What is the greatest lesson you learned in high school?

The most important lesson I learned in high school was to accept myself and others by who they are. I learned to love my culture and background. The opportunity to know myself helped to try to explore other religions and cultures.

If you could have an audience with Pope Francis, what would you discuss with him?

If I had an audience with Pope Francis I would like to discuss how can future marriages deal with technology to keep faithful and raise their children in the Catholic faith. I admire my parents’ marriage, and I would like one that is as authentic as theirs, but I worry that current trends can make a marriage like theirs difficult.

Describe the most significant faith experience you have had during high school.

The biggest faith growth I had was while teaching catechism at my church. I learned to appreciate the value of my Catholic education and how it helped me to become the person I am today. My students are persistent and attentive, and those characteristics transmit hope for the future. My faith constantly gives me hope to succeed and never give up.

I graduated from All Saints Catholic School in Lakeville with an eighth-grade class of 28 people, all of whom knew each other quite well and, by and large, shared the same viewpoint on many things. Being immersed in the life of Holy Angels put me in the position of having to get to know and interact with a far larger and more diverse group of people than I had been used to, which has proven to be useful in helping me grow and learn how to interact with a broad group of people.

If you could have an audience with Pope Francis, what would you discuss with him?

I would say my primary interest in discussion would be how best to balance the ideals of pastorality and charity and speak to the teachings of the Church. How should we avoid the extremes of a compassion-withouttruth on one side and bloodless, unfeeling argumentation on the other?

Describe the most significant faith experience you had during high school.

What can the Catholic Church do to keep you and other young adults engaged in the life of the Church?

During the summer prior to my junior year, I went on a pilgrimage in Wisconsin that involved hiking about 30 miles over a couple of days. Two things in particular stuck out: First, I came to recognize the peace and beauty that can be found in getting away from the modern world with all its distractions. Second, I found a camaraderie among those hiking with me and came to see God more clearly through the friendships I have with others.

If you could have a conversation with a historical figure, who would it be and why?

Who is a spiritual role model for your Catholic faith?

Young people need to be given more responsibility and confidence. . . . How are we supposed to learn responsibilities if no opportunities are given to us?

I would love to speak to Albert Einstein. I am so passionate about science that it would be extremely neat to speak about some theories I have and clarify how his curiosity started. I would also like to ask, “What distinguishes a good and bad contribution to the science world?”

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Father Jonathan Kelly, the previous associate pastor at my parish and currently a seminarian formator at St. John Vianney College Seminary, stands out to me as a great example. He embodies a humility and compassion that I can only dream of attaining at the present time. His devotion to God and his Church embodies something that I strive for and wish to attain.

The greatest thing I learned in high school was to always keep things in perspective. On days when I am overwhelmed with homework and I’m worried about how I am going to finish it all, I remember that in the bigger scope, it is nothing compared to the importance of my relationship with God. This has helped me to worry less about the material things of the world and focus more on knowing, loving and serving God the way I should.

If you could have an audience with Pope Francis, what would you discuss with him?

I would ask Pope Francis if he thinks the Church would ever be united again and if so, how it would happen.

Describe the most significant faith experience you have had during high school.

When I was a sophomore I had the opportunity to go on a pilgrimage to Rome with some other girls in my school. The trip was the most amazing experience ever, not just as someone who loves to travel, but also spiritually. I felt this indescribable joy, as if God and the saints were nearer there somehow.

What book did you read in high school that most changed the way you think?

In English class this year, we read Aristotle’s “Nicomachean Ethics,” and it completely changed my understanding of friendship. I learned that a true or “complete” friendship is different than a friendship of pleasure.

What can the Catholic Church do to keep you and other younger adults engaged in the life of the Church?

One thing the Church can do to keep younger adults involved is to encourage them to explore their faith. I have found that the more I learn and know about the faith, the more I want to get involved in the life of the Church.

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20

Graduates

May 7, 2015 • The Catholic Spirit

Lesby Ampuero

Charlie Engel

Alaina Anderson

Humboldt High School, St. Paul

DeLaSalle, Minneapolis

Hill-Murray School, Maplewood

Ampuero attends Our Lady of Guadalupe in St. Paul. Her parents are Oswaldo Ampuero and Rosario Abad. She plans to attend the University of Minnesota Twin Cities.

Engel attends St. Thomas the Apostle in Minneapolis. His parents are Steve and Mary Kate Engel. He plans to attend Wake Forest University in Winston-Salem, North Carolina.

What is the greatest lesson you learned in high school?

What is the greatest lesson you learned in high school?

Anderson attends St. Ambrose, Woodbury, and St. Peter, North St. Paul. Her parents are Lisa and Michael Anderson.

She plans to attend the University of Notre Dame in Notre Dame, Indiana.

To never give up and always keep my head up.

Name one thing you are proud of accomplishing in high school.

I’m proud of being in the National Honor Society.

Describe the most significant faith experience you have had during high school.

My biggest fear was getting rejected from a college that I applied to, but when I got my first acceptance letter from the UMN, I knew it was God who helped me, and I would never stop thanking him.

Who is a spiritual role model for your Catholic faith?

My spiritual role model is Mother Teresa.

If you could have a conversation with a historical figure, who would it be and why?

It would be Pope John Paul II, an inspiring person.

I’ve learned that I can’t do everything on my own. I have learned to rely on God for strength and guidance.

Name one thing you are proud of accomplishing in high school.

I am proud of the genuine relationships that I have made over my four years at DeLaSalle. We live in a day and age where there is much superficiality in our society, in high schools especially. I have tried to put effort into forging relationships that will hopefully be lifelong and fruitful.

Describe the most significant faith experience you have had during high school.

I had the good fortune of traveling to Rome and Florence with other DeLaSalle students through a DeLaSalle summer trip in 2013. During the trip, two Christian Brothers accompanied us, supplementing our experiences with their wisdom and admirable devotion to their Catholic faith.

Describe the most significant faith experience you have had during high school.

The Steubenville North Retreat at the University of St. Thomas last summer was a fantastic experience for me. The adoration was so intense and spiritual. I truly felt God’s presence and it filled me with so much joy that I laughed until I cried.

Who is a spiritual role model for your Catholic faith?

Pope Francis and Mother Teresa are the more wellknown role models that I have for my faith life. The other two are my youth minister, Andy Wagenback, and his wife, Coreen.

What can the Catholic Church do to keep you and other young adults engaged in the life of the Church?

One way would be to make Mass more lively. The biggest complaint I hear is that Mass is boring. . . .NET Ministries in West St. Paul does a phenomenal job with their Lifeline Masses to get kids involved and engaged.

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May 7, 2015 • The Catholic Spirit

St. Thomas Academy

22

Learning to lead Daily military formation central to 130-year-old St. Thomas Academy

By Jennifer Janikula For The Catholic Spirit

T

he entire student body, also known as the corps of cadets, stands at attention in the St. Thomas Academy court during daily formation. With a strong, crisp, unified voice, they recite the Hail Mary and the Pledge of Allegiance. As the cadets settle into their “at ease” position, staff and students step up to the mic to share announcements and celebrate accomplishments at the Mendota Heights school.

Then, a senior student approaches the podium.

With the school’s motto, “Ex Umbris in Veritatum” (“Out of Darkness into Light”) inscribed overhead, he delivers a five-minute speech to the entire corps. Honored guests including the student’s parents, grandparents and siblings, line the above the court.

“We try, in everything railing At the end of the the entire corps we do, to help young speech, offers sincere, men develop as men resounding applause and cheers. A large group of for others — as men students surrounds the speaker offering strong bear hugs with their committed to congratulations. The feeling of brotherhood is service.” undeniable.

Father Thomas O’Brien The senior speeches have become a highlight of daily formation in recent years. Though the subject and style of each speech varies, students usually express gratitude for their STA experience.

The speeches, within the context of daily formation, demonstrate St. Thomas Academy’s unwavering commitment to develop confident young men with strong leadership skills.

From St. Paul to Mendota Heights The tradition of daily formation dates back to 1965, a pivotal point in the school’s 130-year history, when the school moved from the University of St. Thomas campus to Mendota Heights. Archbishop John Roach realized the school needed its own space to thrive and grow.

So with the help of many generous benefactors, the school established the Mendota Heights campus and became an independent entity.

“Archbishop Roach secured our future and allowed us to flourish and prosper,” explained Matt Mohs, STA headmaster and 1990 graduate.

“Separating us from the college allowed our programs to grow, but our core mission remains the same.”

Since 1965, the changes have been mostly physical: the boarding house closed, the middle

May 7, 2015 • The Catholic Spirit

school opened and most recently, strong support from generous benefactors allowed construction of new facilities including the football stadium, the ice arena and Flynn Hall.

“We are blessed to have a community that supports us with facilities that give our young men access to a well-rounded education,” Mohs said. “The facilities build school spirit and make this place a home for students now and for the rest of their lives.”

Facilities like the new art studio, the band and choir room and the new gym, provide support for academic and co-curricular programs, explained David Hottinger, STA class of 1985 and director of institutional advancement.

“We have become even stronger,” Hottinger said. “The fine arts are embraced and new opportunities like our experimental vehicle team inspire 95 percent of our kids to get involved in activities and athletics.”

Catholic Mission STA’s four pillars—Catholic, all male, college preparatory and military—still stand tall.

Father Thomas O’Brien, who serves as STA’s dean for Catholic mission, explained that the Catholic pillar is expressed through rigorous theology courses, a flourishing campus ministry program, service projects and a commitment to developing Christian gentlemen who are servant leaders.

“We try, in everything we do, to help young men develop as men for others — as men committed to service,” Father O’Brien said.

Students participate in school-wide service projects like food-drives and holiday gift collections, but STA also requires a 40-hour individual service experience, outside of school, before graduation — a requirement that many students exceed.

Students work with one of 40 pre-approved agencies to assist the elderly, work with inner city students, help the homeless, or care for the sick, mentally disabled or dying. Students reflect on their experience through a 10-hour structured journaling and social analysis project.

“The Church has always been about building a bigger and bigger tent and reaching out to those in need physically and spiritually,” Father O’Brien said. “Service projects help our students understand the needs of their brothers and sisters and experience the joy of responding to those needs.”

Building Leaders The Catholic pillar and the military pillar find a common connection in Jesus, whose leadership serves as a model. The military curriculum at STA covers leadership and dilemmas from the beginning of time to present day — from Caesar

St. Thomas Academy cadet staff in 1930. Its military identity continues to be at the heart of the 130-year-old school.

Courtesy St. Thomas Academy to Enron. The military squads and the military co-curriculars provide opportunities for students to practice and apply leadership topics they learn about in the classroom.

“We learn so much about leadership from history,” said Michael DePuglio, a retired U.S. Army lieutenant colonel and STA’s commandant of cadets. “The leadership of people 2,500 years ago is still applicable to our world today.”

As the head military officer at STA, DePuglio hopes to form every student into a gentleman and confident leader who understands responsibility and commitment. The high school students reach this ideal through four years of increasingly hands-on leadership experience.

“In most schools, only a few get to lead. Here, everyone leads,” DePuglio explained. “It becomes second nature for them. We want them to be confident leaders in their home, church, community and world.”

Senior Connor Duffy, who currently serves as the student leader of the corps of cadets, values the leadership skills he acquired during his four years at STA. He understands how to be a good follower and a good leader. He knows the benefits of discipline, order, accountability and respect, but also values selflessness and family, he said.

Duffy defines family with the acronym, “Forget About Me, I Love You.” He explained that STA’s extended family made his experience great: “Our family atmosphere sets us apart,” said Duffy, who plans to major in economics and play football at Pomona College in Claremount, California. “Students, parents, coaches, teachers, and alumni are really one big family. We always have someone to help us and support us.”

Looking forward While holding tightly to history and tradition, Headmaster Mohs hopes to find new opportunities to prepare STA students for the future. He embraces the challenge of developing students committed to justice and God’s mission in this increasingly unpredictable world.

“Our students need to be prepared to adjust and adapt quickly in a fast-changing world,” Mohs explained. “We need to instill in them academic skills and character skills to handle the changes. We need to prepare them for life, not just for college.”

STA maintains an enrollment of more than 600 young men in grades seven through twelve.

Students from 11 different counties and a variety of faith traditions attend STA. Their families value the unique opportunities offered by the only Catholic, all-male, college prep military school in Minnesota, Mohs added.

For more information about St. Thomas Academy, visit www.cadets.com.

23

By Jennifer Janikula For The Catholic Spirit The Catholic Spirit asked three alumni from different decades what still resonates from their years at St. Thomas Academy.

Stephen Kelly, class of 1986, lawyer A biology class taught by Joe Reymann epitomized Stephen Kelly’s high school experience, he said. Kelly called it the most difficult class in his academic career, including college and law school.

Teachers like Reymann, he said, taught him how to learn, how to prepare for class and how to be a good student.

Along with academic rigor, Kelly values single-sex education and the brotherhood created by shared experiences in an all-male, military environment.

“The sense of community is really strong at STA,” said Kelly, an attorney and parishioner of Nativity of Our Lord in St. Paul. “Shared experiences and traditions, like daily formation, create a connection between students. The connection extends beyond current students to past students.”

It’s a connection he shares with his law partner, Kelly Rowe, who graduated from STA in 1979.

Kelly also appreciates the

progression of each student from freshman cadet privates to confident, responsible young men.

This progression begins, Kelly said, when school military leaders inform freshman: “Your mothers should not be ironing your shirts or shining your shoes! That’s your job. You are responsible.”

STA still permeates every part of Kelly’s life, and he spends much of his free time supporting STA in various volunteer capacities. Kelly and his wife, Colleen, who graduated from the Convent of the Visitation in 1986, have two daughters and three sons. One of the boys graduated from STA in 2013; the others are slated to graduate in 2017 and 2027.

Dr. Nicholas Wills, class of 1994, surgeon An orthopedic spine surgeon at Summit Orthopedics in St. Paul, Nicholas Wills credits much of his success to the military and college prep emphasis at St. Thomas Academy.

“The military component of STA is and always should be interchangeable with leadership,” explained Wills, who attends St. Joseph in West St. Paul and Lumen Christi in St. Paul. “Leadership translates to every part of my life — the way I raise my children, the

Congratulations to

Saint Thomas Academy on 50 years in Mendota Heights

Saint Thomas Academy enriches all of our lives with quality education and community service.

As the Mayor of Mendota Heights, I am proud to have Saint Thomas Academy growing and thriving in our city.

kind of husband I am and how I manage the operating room.”

High personal, academic and athletic expectations paved the way for Wills’ acceptance to the University of Notre Dame and put him on the path to becoming a surgeon. When he looks back on his experience, he especially appreciates the dedicated STA staff who inspired students to work hard.

“We really had great teachers and great coaches who gave so much time and energy to us,” Wills said.

“They spent hours and hours teaching us the right way to do things as human beings, students and athletes. There were no nerds; no one thought it was uncool to be smart and work hard.”

Aside from his college experience in Indiana, Wills hasn’t strayed too far from STA. He lives in Mendota Heights with his wife — a Visitation graduate — and three kids. Wills still connects with his STA classmates on a regular basis and counts many of them as his best friends, he said.

Matthew Goldammer, class of 2012, seminarian Seminarian Matthew Goldammer describes his four years at STA as a privilege and a blessing that formed him solidly with strong Catholic faith, rich intellectual life, lasting friendships, discipline and

leadership ability.

Confident in his calling to the priesthood before high school, Goldammer admits initially feeling intimidated and somewhat skeptical about the value of military program.

His feelings changed dramatically by the time he graduated.

“The military program was so helpful in establishing within me a deeper resolve for leadership and discipline — taking the seeds of these important virtues and cultivating the ground so they might grow and blossom,” Goldammer explained. “Thanks be to God, they did blossom, and I entered seminary very well prepared because of the influence of STA’s military program.”

A parishioner of All Saints in Lakeville, Goldammer also appreciates how STA helped him to grow into a confident, well-rounded young man aware of his gifts and ready to use them to serve God. “I had the opportunity to be involved with many activities during my four years,” said Goldammer, who is studying at St. John Vianney College Seminary in St. Paul. “The product of all this activity was a greater appreciation for going forward in life with confidence, knowing that God has given each person gifts and talents that he wants him to use for his service.” After SJV, Goldammer intends to enter major seminary.

St. Thomas Academy

Alumni thankful for brotherhood, leadership, discipline

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archspm.org • TheCatholicSpirit.com May 7, 2015 • The Catholic Spirit

24

St. Thomas Academy

Come to class with one of STA’s bestloved teachers

From left, St. Thomas Academy students in a 1950s classroom; students in a science classroom in 2009. Courtesy St. Thomas Academy.

By Bob Zyskowski The Catholic Spirit

narrowed the focus of “Saving Private Ryan” to the lives of a small platoon of soldiers, all of but one who die so that one man may live.

As the clip starts, Ziebarth suggested his students keep this question in mind: “Was it worth it?”

Cadets’ eyes never leave the screen.

to do it.”

Ziebarth brought the human cost of post-war stress to the lesson with personal anecdotes about his father and a favorite teacher who for decades wouldn’t talk about the war in which they fought.

He spoke of “the burden of warfare” and tried to help his class see the connection between the reluctance of “the Greatest Generation” to talk about their war experiences and both the struggle that Vietnam War vets faced and the post-traumatic stress disorder today’s military veterans are dealing with as they return to civilian life.

“What’s different today? Why don’t we unite as a country now the way we did then?” Ziebarth asked.

More tough questions When the film clip is over, Ziebarth asked, “What makes that one guy so important? A question to ask yourself is, what makes you so important?”

The St. Thomas Academy students learned that their teacher had a personal loss in the war when Ziebarth clicked on his computer and pulled up on the screen a copy of the letter that his grandmother received from the War Department.

It told of the death of her son — Ziebarth’s Uncle Stan — who volunteered to take out a German position, died tossing a grenade to do so, and was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross.

“When we talk about war, there are huge costs with it,” Ziebarth said, but asked paradoxically, “Think about whether or not World War II was worth it. What would the world be like if Hitler wins?

“When we glorify war, there is a really ugly human cost we don’t like to see,” Ziebarth added, “but we had

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A personal touch Cadet Johnson told of screwing up on a test and getting “the best lecture I ever got” from Ziebarth, and classmate Colin Glass said he appreciated the way Ziebarth makes expectations very clear. “I like the way he tries to get to know you as a person and wants you to succeed inside and outside the classroom,” Glass said.

Ziebarth allowed his students to see him as a person, too.

He told the class about viewing “Saving Private Ryan” at the Grandview Theater in St. Paul back in 1998.

Congratulations Saint Thomas Academy On your 130th anniversary & 50 years in Mendota Heights.

!

Dave Ziebarth showed a clip from the movie “Saving Private Ryan” as his third-hour world history class at St. Thomas Academy began a section on World War II. He didn’t use the memorable scene of the bloody D-Day assault at Normandy.

Instead Ziebarth showed the last few minutes of the 1998 movie, when it’s clear that Private Ryan — the last of five brothers, the other four having been killed in the war — will indeed be saved, yet all but one of the platoon sent to save him dies.

Ziebarth peppered the blue uniform-shirted cadets with questions, offering them things to keep in mind and questions to ask themselves.

Asked what makes Ziebarth such a well-respected teacher, Cadet John Ingebretsen said, “He relates things we’re learning in class to our lives, and that makes it enjoyable and helpful.”

Classmate Cameron Johnson added, “I appreciate the way he treats students as students, not as kids.”

Ziebarth, who is in his 35th year teaching at the Mendota Heights college-prep military high school, led the class into discussing how many people lost their lives in the war, how many noncombatants were killed and how many soldiers sacrificed their lives.

“We need to keep in our heads that World War II is not just about the numbers,” Ziebarth advised.

“The number of deaths is so big it’s really hard to grasp it,” he added.

“The cost of human life is on such a massive scale, you have to bring it down,” and, to make that point he said, director Stephen Spielberg

!

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May 7, 2015 • The Catholic Spirit

Mary and Jim Waldvogel St. Joseph, West St. Paul

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In the segment of the movie that he screened, Captain Miller, the character played by Tom Hanks, whispers to Private Ryan (Matt Damon) just before he dies, “Earn this. Earn it.”

“He means earn these nine lives” who died so he could live, Ziebarth explained.

As the movie concludes, Damon’s character ages to the point where he is a gray-haired man, standing in front of the grave of Captain Miller at the military cemetery in France and addressing Miller in his grave: “Every day I think about what you said to me that day on the bridge. I tried to live my life the best that I could. I hope that was enough. I hope that, at least in your eyes, I’ve earned what all of you have done for me.”

Ryan’s wife comes up to him, and he asks her: “Tell me I have led a good life. Tell me I’m a good man.”

Ryan’s wife answers, “You are.”

When the clip stopped, Ziebarth admitted, “I always tear up when I see that scene, when he asks, ‘Am I a good man?’ ” He pointed out that in that final shot, viewers don’t just see the headstone cross marking Captain Miller’s grave, but scores more in rows in the cemetery.

Ziebarth added one final lesson: “All of these sacrifices were made to save our lives, you and me.”

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By Bridget Ryder For The Catholic Spirit A local ballet company is bringing C.S. Lewis’ beloved children’s story “The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe” to life in an original production. “Narnia: The Ballet” will debut May 8-10 at the Ames Center in Burnsville.

Denise and Rick Vogt, co-artistic directors and founders of the Twin Cities Ballet of Minnesota, adapted the magical tale of three children who find a wardrobe that is a portal to another world.

The performance features more than 90 dancers, with the ballet company’s professional dancers playing the principal roles and the students dancing smaller roles.

“I’m always looking for new things to create for these beautiful dancers,” Denise said.

This is the fifth story ballet she has written and produced. Past productions include “The Wizard of Oz,” “Beauty and the Beast” and “Cinderella: 1944.” As far as she knows, this is the first balletic interpretation of “The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe.”

“The story really lends itself to balletic interpretation,” Rick said. “There are so many different creatures, sets, scenes and worlds to let the magic play itself out and the fantasy part, too.”

The story opens in London’s Liverpool Street train station where the four child protagonists — Peter, Susie, Edmund and Lucy — are being evacuated to escape World War II violence.

“The first minute is in slow motion,” Denise said. “I wanted really to set the scene and the characters, and then it goes straight into story.”

On their way to their temporary home with a professor, the children pass by a group of “land

‘Narnia: The Ballet’ May 8-10 at the Ames Center, 12600 Nicollet Ave., Burnsville • May 8 – 7 p.m.

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For more information, visit www.twincitiesballet.org.

girls,” young women from cities who worked the fields while the men were at war. The children stop to help, and the interaction breaks into dance. Once at their new home, magic starts to happen.

The story is told through the eyes and imagination of Lucy, who finds the professor’s house a place of surreal experiences. She is the first to find the wardrobe that leads to Narnia.

There she meets hedgehogs, bunnies, robins and a whole cast of creatures. Edmund, too, finds the wardrobe, but he meets the White Witch, who has Narnia under her spell, accompanied by her entourage of evil creatures.

The Vogts use imaginative characters and costumes, such as the wolf-icorn — a half unicorn, half wolf creature loyal to the White Witch — to bring the fantasy of the novel to the

Dancers in a scene from “Narnia: The Ballet,” a production of the Twin Cities Ballet of Minnesota, debuting at Ames Center in Burnsville May 8-10. Courtesy the Twin Cities Ballet of Minnesota.

Faith & Culture

C.S. Lewis’ ‘Narnia’ comes to life in local ballet

stage. To capture the sudden change of worlds when the children enter Narnia, the stage goes from black to white. Other small adaptions explain the story through dance.

The Vogts also wanted to remain true to the Christian themes of good overcoming evil and resurrection following sacrifice. The ballet culminates with a battle scene and Aslan the lion being lifted by the other dancers.

The Vogts said the ballet is family-friendly and perfect for Mother’s Day. “Part of our mission is to make productions that are approachable and accessible, so the audience can understand it,” Rick said.

The program also provides an act-by-act synopsis, so the audience can easily keep up with the action. The score is a compilation of music that Denise arranged.

May 7, 2015 • The Catholic Spirit

World Meeting of Families

26

The Mission of Love

By Amanda Zurface

Aaron and Liz Rongen are pictured in front of their fifth generation homestead near Fertile, Minnesota, with their three children, John Douglas, Arthur and Mary Cate.

Photo courtesy the Rongens

Selfless love through everyday faithfulness

By Katrina Genereux For The Catholic Spirit “God’s fingerprints were all over it,” said Liz Rongen, speaking about how she met her husband, Aaron, when they were both in their mid-30s.

“We married later in life, so as we waited on God in our singlehood, we each tried to be faithful and obedient in Third of a series: that time, making choices that would honor God. We both The Mission of Love made decisions to be open to God’s plan for our future vocation,” said Liz. Although neither was certain he or she was called to marriage, both took steps to prepare for it.

Aaron heard about the group e5 Men, an organization based on Ephesians 5 that encourages men to fast for their wife or future bride if they are not yet married, and he began fasting for his future wife. Liz was the only single woman out of a group of 25 in a Bible study that focused In partnership with the on being a godly wife. publications of all Minnesota They met at a mission in dioceses, The Catholic Spirit Jamaica during the summer of is featuring an 11-part series 2007. on families based on the Aaron was serving as a World Meeting of Families’ chaperone for a mission trip with 10 themes. a group of youth from northern Minnesota, and Liz, who was living in Florida at the time, was helping the mission camp director.

Want to go?

“We ended up working For more information together off and on quite a few times that week on projects and or to register for the local began to develop a friendship,” pilgrimage to the World Meeting Liz said. They stayed in touch of Families, call 1-800-653-0017. after returning to the U.S., and To register for the World their friendship grew through Meeting of Families, visit www. phone calls that always ended in worldmeeting 2015.org. prayer. In the middle of a typical For details, visit Minnesota winter, Liz visited www.archspm.org/WMF. Aaron and they decided to begin dating.

“We knew this relationship was different from any other we had been involved in,” said Liz. “We were not sure how God was going to orchestrate all the details, but as always, he beautifully did.”

?

May 7, 2015 • The Catholic Spirit

The two were engaged in March 2008, and married later that year.

“God knew all along what his plan was for us, and we were blessed how he chose to honor our commitment to him,” said Liz. “Not only in marriage, but also with the gift of children.”

The Rongens lost their first child, Mary Clare, during pregnancy, but later had Arthur, 4; John Douglas, 2; and Mary Cate, 9 months.

The family lives on the Rongen homestead near Fertile, Minnesota, which has been in Aaron’s family for five generations. Aaron works for Bergeson Nursery, and Liz is a stay-at-home mom who, thanks to modern technology, continues working for the restaurant franchise group she worked for in Florida.

“We have sacrificed our time and agendas to make our marriage and our kids our biggest priority in the way we invest our time,” Liz said.

According to the couple, church, family prayer, date night, family meals and family play time are the cornerstones that help them live their faith.

“Our experience of the Catholic Church is one that really fosters a spirit of loving those inside and outside the walls of the church,” Liz said. “This has given us the insight on how we can love by doing our part in these areas. For both of us, this was part of how we ended up in Jamaica to serve the people of that country.

“But in our lives now, we find our mission to be with those right around us. Our family has made it a priority to get involved with helping organizations that support the pro-life movement, along with those that are fostering and enriching the lives of our troubled youth.”

The Rongens strive as a family to answer the Lord’s call to love selflessly, despite the obstacles, and live as witnesses of God’s faithfulness to the world through their ordinary, everyday lives. They try to be intentional in their prayer, use of time, financial choices, and everything they do and say.

According to Aaron and Liz, the boys’ favorite thing to do for people who need prayers is to sing a song of blessing over them. When they are not able to sing to them in person, they try to do it through video chat or Aaron records them singing their song and sends it in a text to the person.

“The older two kids already have a love for Jesus and a compassion to pray for others,” Liz said.

“What a joy this is for us to see the seeds of their faith starting to take root at such a young age.”

Genereux is a staff writer for Our Northland Diocese, the publication of the Diocese of Crookston.

The Catholic Church wants to see your marriage succeed and be fruitful. The incredible reality of the Church’s teaching on marriage and family life is that it sets Catholics apart from the rest of the world. The Church guides us to that place of success and fruitfulness by showing us exactly how we are to pinpoint real love.

As Catholics, we have learned that Jesus gave us an instruction and a mission in the Gospels to be open, to receive God’s love and to extend that love to others. Jesus specifically asked us to love our neighbors. He asked us to feed the hungry, clothe the naked and to go so deep into service of the other that we arrive at a point where we love them as God loves them.

Have you ever thought that another image of that love, other than serving your neighbor at the local food shelf, is your marriage and loving your spouse as God does? While Scripture depicts different images of God’s love for us, marriage is the crowning image, showing the intensity of God’s love and exactly how we are to love as he loves. This imagery comes to life in Ephesians 5 with the marriage analogy of Christ and the Church.

Within marriage, spouses are to live out “the greatest love story ever told.” They do this through sacrificial fidelity and by integrating compassion and patience, ultimately seeking to mirror Christ’s sacrifice on the cross.

We know through Scripture and personal experiences that God wills only the best for us. His love doesn’t cease when we reject him, nor does he desire someone more appealing.

God always remains faithful and extends the chance for repentance and forgiveness.

Jesus’ love shows us how to love unselfishly. He sets a model for all Christian marriages. Ultimately, Jesus reveals to us that real love grows from what we give to others, not what we take for ourselves.

Thus, through holy marriages and in family life, children learn all about self-giving love.

My spiritual director recently expressed to me, “If God could yell anything to us from heaven, it would be two words: life and love.

This is God’s purpose for our lives: to have life and to love God’s way.

According to Father Larry Richards, “I did it my way” is the theme song of those suffering eternally in hell.

We are called to measure our love according to God’s way of loving.

This type of love — Christian love — involves a choice. Let’s all choose the mission of love.

Zurface is the coordinator of Justice, Marriage and Family Life in the Office of the New Evangelization for the Diocese of Crookston.

27 SUNDAY SCRIPTURES Jean Denton

Jesus shows how to remain in love when ability is tenuous This weekend’s Gospel proclaims: “Love one another as I love you,” and “As the Father loves me, so I also love you.”

The words of the First Letter of John echo, “Let us love one another, because love is of God; everyone who loves is begotten by God and knows God.” Reading that makes me feel really good. I feel as if I could love forever and be totally “of God.” But — I promise I am not making this up — as I was contemplating that Scripture in preparation to write this reflection, this bon mot popped up on my computer: “Behind every great kid is a mom who’s pretty sure she’s screwing it all up.”

It was sent — lovingly — by a person with whom I’d been discussing the ups and downs of parenthood. Of course, the witticism was meant to emphasize the redeeming outcome of a “great kid” through unconditional, selfless love as personified in the term “mom.”

However, going back to the Scripture, I was reminded that my ability to love is sometimes tenuous. Now I noticed the line exhorting us to “remain in my

love,” and I remembered how hard that can be. For those of us who aren’t divine, loving with constancy isn’t a given. Even with one’s own beloved child, one can easily screw up under strain and fall off the love train.

God knows that. As this Gospel explains, that’s why he sent us his Son — to show us how to “remain” in divine love.

We remain there by keeping God’s commandment to love one another as he loves us, Jesus said, explaining, “No one has greater love than this, to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.”

Indeed, Jesus lived that truth, giving his life for humanity. In that act, he at once redeemed our weakness and exemplified how to remain in God’s love.

Like the “great kid” loved unconditionally by a mom, we learn love by being loved and accepting the exemplified effort it requires to love in the same way. So love remains.

This Catholic News Service column is offered in cooperation with the North Texas Catholic of Fort Worth, Texas.

SEEKING ANSWERS Father Michael Schmitz

The more we know about temptation the better [In this column from April 9], we looked at one source of temptation many people encounter: the world. We read that the world can often be a source of real temptation. This is obvious to anyone who is paying attention.

We also read that there are, historically, two other sources of temptation: the fallen self and the devil.

Before we look at these sources of temptation, it is worth remembering that encountering a temptation is not at all the same as giving in to a temptation. A person can experience temptation all day and not choose to sin. Please let me reiterate: Temptation is not sin, it is just a temptation.

In addition, feelings or thoughts that we experience are not, in and of themselves, sins. It is only when we freely choose to embrace or encourage certain feelings or thoughts that they can become sins.

As we move forward, there is at least one very important skill that we need to develop. When we encounter unwanted

thoughts or feelings, we need to learn how to identify the “voice” that is speaking. As Christians, we need to learn to identify the voice of the Good Shepherd (John 10:27). We do this by spending time listening to the voice of God. Take time to reflect on Scripture or enter into the Mass and learn what Jesus’ voice sounds like. Learning Christ’s voice is the best way to be able to quickly and surely identify the voice of the enemy (the devil). He can often sound convincing, but he always twists the truth of God in a way that condemns a person and strips them of hope.

A good rule of thumb for distinguishing the voice of God from the voice of the devil is this: The Holy Spirit convicts us of sin while Satan merely accuses us. The distinction is that, when the Holy Spirit convicts us, he always leads us to repentance and hope. Satan accuses us and leads us to mere sadness and discouragement. The Holy Spirit’s voice leads us to action, while Satan’s

Sunday, May 10 Sixth Sunday of Easter Acts 10:25-26, 34-35, 44-48 1 John 4:7-10 John 15:9-17 Monday, May 11 Acts 16:11-15 John 15:26 – 16:4a Tuesday, May 12 Ss. Nereus and Achilleus, martyrs; St. Pancras, martyr Acts 16:22-34 John 16:5-11 Wednesday, May 13 Our Lady of Fatima Acts 17:15, 22 – 18:1 John 16:12-15

Monday, May 18 St. John I, pope, martyr Acts 19:1-8 John 16:29-33 Tuesday, May 19 Acts 20:17-27 John 17:1-11a

Focus on Faith

DAILY Scriptures

Wednesday, May 20 St. Bernardine of Siena, priest Acts 20:28-38 John 17:11b-19

Thursday, May 14 St. Matthias, apostle Acts 1:15-17, 20-26 John 15:9-17

Thursday, May 21 St. Christopher Magallanes, priest, and companions, martyrs Acts 22:30; 23:6-11 John 17:20-26

Friday, May 15 St. Isidore Acts 18:9-18 John 16:20-23

Friday, May 22 St. Rita of Cascia, religious Acts 25:13b-21 John 21:15-19

Saturday, May 16 Acts 18:23-28 John 16:23b-28

Saturday, May 23 Acts 28:16-20, 30-31 John 21:20-25

Sunday, May 17 Ascension of the Lord Acts 1:1-11 Ephesians 1:17-23 Mark 16:15-20

Sunday, May 24 Pentecost Sunday Acts 2:1-11 1 Corinthians 12:3b-7, 12-13 John 20:19-23

voice leads us to paralysis.

Something similar is true about the fallen self. I often meet with people who struggle to believe the truth about themselves. They will listen to a “voice” that accuses them and condemns them. I will often ask them whose voice they hear when they hear those words. Many times, they are able to say, “That sounds like my dad when he got drunk” or “It sounds like my mom when she was miserable and took it out on us.”

This is not to say that a person has to have parents who abused them in order to have self-accusing thoughts, but it is to say that the “voice” can often be identified as false or accusing by paying attention to who it sounds like.

Denial is unhelpful One helpful strategy for dealing with these thoughts is called “wise mind.” The idea is that I need to acknowledge how I am thinking or feeling and at the same time remind myself of the truth that comes from God. For example, if a person is facing a self-destructive temptation, they would acknowledge that they do indeed feel this way, as well as the fact that they are made for more. It doesn’t help a person to deny that they are struggling or to try to tell themselves that they shouldn’t be feeling a certain way. It helps them to stay in their “wise mind” and accept their current situation with wisdom.

This might look like, “I feel disgusting and worthless, and I know that God knows me and loves me.” Or it could look like, “I have been hurt and

devastated by another’s actions towards me, and I am called to love them in this.”

A man from the early Church named Origen once wrote, “There is a certain usefulness to temptation.” When we face (or flee) temptation, we are strengthened in ways we would not be without it.

Temptations, resisted or run from, develop a depth of character.

Even if temptation defeats a person, if it is identified and handed over to Christ, it can refine the person. Think of people who acknowledge their woundedness and need for grace. They grow in humility. They have hopefully grown in wisdom and courage. They have hopefully been made aware of their selfishness and brokenness.

This is essential. Too often, we are content to try to survive on our own strength. We don’t learn to lean on God. Scott Hahn once pointed out that all of God’s “favorites” had to endure temptation or trials. Even Jesus himself endured temptation.

In the midst of temptation, it is a great time to remind yourself of what you truly want, to remind yourself of what you are truly made for. Remember who you are: You are a son or daughter of God, and you are made for truth, and true love, and joy, not the false imitations that we often trade in for the real thing.

Father Schmitz is director of youth and young adult ministry for the Diocese of Duluth and chaplain of the Newman Center at the University of Minnesota Duluth.

Reach him at fathermikeschmitz@gmail. com.

May 7, 2015 • The Catholic Spirit

PARA QUE TODOS SEAN UNO

28

Arzobispo John Nienstedt

La confirmación perfecciona la ‘nueva vida’ del bautismo

E

l tiempo de Pascua es el momento más apropiado para la celebración del sacramento de la confirmación.

Mientras que este poderoso sacramento se puede celebrar en cualquier época del año, en mi opinión la primavera es la temporada que mejor lo complementa.

La primavera, por naturaleza, es el florecimiento de una nueva vida y la iluminación de los períodos de luz más largos. Pascua celebra la vida nueva de la resurrección de Cristo, después de su pasión y muerte. Así, la confirmación, que completa y en cierto sentido perfecciona la nueva vida dada en el bautismo, tiene una cierta afinidad con la primavera y la temporada de Pascua. Es un sacramento de gran poder y gracia.

Para ser totalmente transparente, permítanme decirles que presidir las ceremonias de confirmación es uno de los papeles más gratificantes que tengo como obispo. Ahí, en el cuerpo de la Iglesia, los candidatos entusiasmados están reunidos, todos vestidos elegantemente y apropiadamente, nerviosos acerca de cómo sus vidas están a punto de ser transformadas. Esto también es un evento familiar donde los padres y los abuelos orgullosos, hermanos y hermanas, catequistas y directores de educación

religiosa vienen a participar del fruto de sus esfuerzos y a ver el resultado de sus oraciones. Es un momento que ve hacia el futuro con gran esperanza y expectativa. Es una experiencia que ha madurado con el potencial de una Iglesia que ofrece ricas posibilidades para el crecimiento en la santidad, posibilidades que no tienen límite, vistas a la luz del horizonte que tenemos por delante.

Por supuesto, la confirmación es el sacramento en sí mismo del Espíritu Santo. Ahora bien, esto no quiere decir que todos los sacramentos no dependen de la fuerza del Espíritu Santo, pero aquí nos encontramos con que los dones especiales de Pentecostés se transmiten de manera individual a cada candidato. La confirmación es uno de los que llamamos los tres “Sacramentos de Iniciación,” es decir, el bautismo, la confirmación y la Eucaristía, ya que se consideran las puertas de entrada a la vida nueva de la gracia de Dios.

El libro de los Hechos de los Apóstoles narra la primera distinción hecha entre el bautismo y la confirmación. En el capítulo 8 de Hechos, leemos que el diácono Felipe, después de predicar el Evangelio a la gente de Samaria, los bautizó en la fe. Entonces leemos:

“Cuando los apóstoles que estaban en Jerusalén tuvieron noticia de que los samaritanos habían aceptado la Palabra de Dios, les enviaron a Pedro y a Juan.

Bajaron y oraron por ellos para que recibieran el Espíritu Santo, ya que todavía no había descendido sobre ninguno de ellos y sólo habían sido bautizados en el nombre del Señor Jesús.

Pero entonces les impusieron las manos y recibieron el Espíritu Santo” (Hechos 8:14-17). Esto describe claramente un sacramento distinto del bautismo y uno que estaba reservado a los Apóstoles y lo sigue siendo hoy. La imposición de manos sigue siendo un componente esencial para el rito y esto es seguido por una unción en la frente de la persona con el Santo Crisma. Ahora la palabra “crisma” tiene el mismo origen que la palabra “Cristo” o “Cristiano,” que significa “Ungido.” El crisma se compone de aceite de oliva mezclado con un fragante bálsamo perfumado. Este es “consagrado” por el obispo en la Misa Crismal anual, durante o cerca de la Semana Santa. San Cirilo de Jerusalén en el siglo IV, habló de su importancia: “Tengan cuidado de suponer que se trata de un ungüento simple. Porque así como el pan de la Eucaristía, después de

la invocación del Espíritu Santo, ya no es un simple pan, sino el Cuerpo de Cristo, así también este ungüento santo ya no es un simple ungüento. . . después de la invocación. Es el don de la gracia de Cristo y, por la venida del Espíritu Santo, se ha transformado para impartir su naturaleza divina. El ungüento se aplica simbólicamente en su frente. . . . Mientras que su cuerpo es ungido con el ungüento visible, su alma es santificada por el santo y vivificante Espiritu.”

En los primeros siglos de la Iglesia, el nombre informal para la confirmación era “el sello” (en Latín: signaculum) porque el sacramento funcionó de manera análoga a un anillo de sello. Los documentos importantes eran asegurados con un sello de cera impreso con la imagen en la cara del anillo. Mientras que el sello no afectó el mensaje del documento, lo hizo transmitir el carácter oficial de dicho documento. Después del siglo V, se adoptó la palabra “confirmación” como una descripción más apropiada de lo que realiza el sacramento, es decir, “confirma” o completa lo que se inició con el bautismo.

En mi próxima columna, espero describir los efectos del sacramento de la confirmación. ¡Que Dios los bendiga!

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May 7, 2015 • The Catholic Spirit

29

Christina Capecchi

Keeping score, winning big: a ‘30 Under 30’ honoree reflects On Sunday night the email landed in Mike Foss’ inbox: He had been named to Forbes’ “30 Under 30,” the business magazine’s annual list of rising stars younger than 30.

Mike Foss, the soccer player from Springfield, Virginia, the kid who had been homeschooled through 12th grade. This sent Facebook abuzz: boldfaced evidence that homeschooling actually works.

Once the announcement was made on the first Monday of January, inquiring minds began lobbing questions at Mike’s mom, Elizabeth. How did she do it? What curriculum had she used? What colleges did she recommend? What was the exact formula of devotions, multivitamins and Mozart?

“Y’all,” she wrote on her blog that Friday, “I have no idea!”

But when pressed, the mother of

nine reflected on her news-making firstborn, a 26-year-old Catholic.

“Michael learned his most important lessons at the dinner table. All I really did was cook the meal. His daily repartee on Twitter?

Totally sounds like banter among my boys. His brothers are as much behind that award as I am,” Elizabeth wrote. “Iron sharpens iron.”

She credited her husband, a sports broadcaster and mentor, and mused about “the effect of having nursed [Mike] in nearly every college sports venue up and down the East Coast,” elaborating: “We hung together. The lot of us. Every day. All the time. That’s being educated by his real life.”

Mike’s first post-college job brought him to USA Today. He was working as a senior social media editor when he began developing a new sports website intended to be

FAITH IN THE PUBLIC ARENA Shawn Peterson

Minnesotans want more choice in education School choice opponents often argue that creating more options for parents will allow non-public schools to skim the cream of students from public schools, leaving everyone else behind. But a recent study underwritten by the Friedman Foundation for Educational Choice shows that a majority of Minnesotans do not agree that school choice is an “us vs. them” issue. Rather, Minnesotans believe that everyone can benefit from more choice in education.

School choice advocacy is not about filling schools with high achievers, or padding the enrollment numbers of non-public schools. The Church’s advocacy for school choice is premised on ensuring that no one’s future be determined by their ZIP code. It is about student well-being — not institutional well-being.

School choice helps disadvantaged kids and promotes social justice by ensuring that everyone has access to educational

opportunities. The Church recognizes that parents “who have the primary and inalienable right and duty to educate their children, must enjoy true liberty in their choice of schools” (“Gravissimum Educationis” on Christian education, 1965, Pope Paul VI).

Catholic schools, for example, have a long history of successfully educating those who struggle academically, as well as helping children and families have access to an education they want, often regardless of religious affiliation, academic aptitude or ability to pay.

The Friedman polling shows that quite a few Minnesotans, regardless of political or religious beliefs, agree with the Church that more educational options serve students and strengthen our communities.

Where Minnesotans stand on education choice Political parties and geography (urban, suburban and rural) were

an entry point to the paper’s main website. During a coffee-fueled period of eight months he hired 10 people, reserved some 20 web domains and got married.

“It was insane,” Mike told me. “I don’t remember sleeping.”

The vision was to create a site with a delicate mix of original sports features and aggregated articles — journalistic standards plus blogging agility — chronicled in a more earnest voice than the average sports story and aimed at a broader audience.

“For The Win” launched on April 22, 2013, and became one of the fastest growing mobile websites in history. In February it elicited more than 16 million unique visitors.

“We won,” Mike said, “big time.”

He believes his entrepreneurial spirit was fostered by the countercultural decision to homeschool — why do things like everyone else? — and the freedom to customize his education.

He’s now a sought-after tech star and, for better or worse, a serious contender in the frenetic pursuit of online popularity. “There’s always a score, in terms of performance,” he said. “I’m competitive.”

That results in long work days perched behind a 30-inch computer monitor with an iPad and iPhone at his side and a flat-

screen TV mounted above alternating between CNN and ESPN.

fairly equally represented in Friedman’s March phone polling research. Of those polled, 45 percent supported teacher unions, and 65 percent have a positive view of our state’s public school system, so they did not favor one type of education model over another.

As with every significant poll on education choice that has been conducted in the last several decades, the poll results show Minnesotans overwhelmingly in support of school choice, with most viewing education reform as a top public policy priority.

People were polled on several specific education policies, but two sets of data specifically relate to legislation that the Minnesota Catholic Conference is advocating for: Education Savings Accounts (ESAs) and Tax Credit Scholarships.

Education Savings Accounts allow parents to deposit their child’s state per-pupil and special education funds in a stateapproved and monitored account to be used for education options they believe best suit the needs of their child. When voters were asked about ESAs for students with special needs, four out of five voters (80 percent) approved.

Also surveyed was the Tax Credit Scholarships policy, which would create a framework allowing individuals and corporations to donate funds to non-profit entities that would in turn offer scholarships to qualified students.

When asked about this option, 65

percent of Minnesota voters were in favor.

The blinking, linking 24/7 digital world can render the mind a hamster wheel. Mike tries to counteract it by unplugging every evening. He loves comic books and C.S. Lewis, just finished his fifth read of “Mere Christianity.”

The twin pillars of his life, faith and family, keep his ego in check.

“I don’t get absorbed in any of it.

That plays into family unit. You sit around a table at a Foss family dinner and it doesn’t matter who you are: We roast each other.”

Attending Mass, he said, quiets any pressure to continue on a headline-making career path. “You listen to a homily or look up at the cross and it puts things in perspective. It makes it easier to be present in the faith and to be present in your life.”

And if you ask his mom, who became a grandma one year ago when Mike’s daughter, Lucy, was born, her son’s over-30 work will be even more significant. “He’s only just begun to answer God’s call in his life.”

This Catholic Life • Commentary

TWENTY SOMETHING

Capecchi is a freelance writer from Inver Grove Heights and the editor of www.SisterStory.org.

Turning polling into policy Minnesota voters, by a sizable majority, are in favor of greater school choice options and policies that make those opportunities a reality. To do so requires that government play a role, as indicated in “Gravissimum Educationis”: “Consequently, the public power, which has the obligation to protect and defend the rights of citizens, must see to it, in its concern for distributive justice, that public subsidies are paid out in such a way that parents are truly free to choose according to their conscience the schools they want for their children.”

Education choice matters to a great number of individuals and families. Now it is simply a matter of turning this support into action.

Continue to talk to community members and legislators about the importance of education choice, including access to non-public schools, as a basic right for families and children.

You can learn more by visiting the Minnesota Catholic Conference website (www.mncc. org) or the Friedman Foundation’s website (www.edchoice.org) and clicking on “state research” in the research drop-down menu.

Peterson is associate director for public policy with the Minnesota Catholic Conference.

May 7, 2015 • The Catholic Spirit

Calendar

30 Dining out American Cancer Society/Relay for Life pancake breakfast — May 17: 8 a.m1 p.m., KC Hall, 1910 Greeley St., Stillwater. $8, children 12 and under $4.

Music and entertainment Cretin-Derham Hall spring concerts — May 7, 12 and 20: Jazz band, 7 p.m. May 7; spring choral, 7 p.m. May 12; spring band, 7 p.m. May 20. 525 S. Albert St., St. Paul.

Concert for the Common Good — May 9: 1 p.m. at St. Olaf Church, 215 S. Eighth St., Minneapolis. Parish choir joins From Age to Age Choral Music Ensemble.

Concert benefits Catholic Charities of St. Paul and Minneapolis and Exodus Residence at St. Olaf Church. $20 adults, $10 children ages 12 and under. Information and tickets, visit www.saintolaf.org/sacredmusic/concert-for-the-common-good or contact Anne Susag at (612) 767-6214 or asusag@SaintOlaf.org. Tickets also available at the door.

St. Agnes School spring concerts — May 11 and May 20: Band concert 7:30 p.m. May 11 at Central High School Auditorium, 275 Lexington Pkwy. N, St. Paul. Choir concert 7:30 p.m. May 20 at Buetow Auditorium, Concordia University, 300 Hamline Ave., St. Paul. Free.

“Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” — May 14-16: 2:30 p.m., May 14; 7 p.m. May 15; 6 p.m. May 17, Pope John Paul II Catholic School Theater, 1630 Fourth St. NE, Minneapolis. Free-will donation. Information: (612) 789-8851.

“Music for the Soul” — May 15: 7:30 p.m., South Metro Chorale spring concert featuring Faure’s “Requiem.” St. Richard, 7540 Penn Ave. S, Richfield. $12 adults, $8 seniors and students. Tickets at the door or online at www.southmetrochorale.org.

“She Swings” summer jazz concert — May 17: Series kickoff with Katia Cardenas, 1 p.m., St. Albert the Great, E. 29th St. at 32nd Ave., Minneapolis. $15. Information: www.saintalbertthegreat.org.

“Anne of Green Gables” — June 3-5: 7 p.m. each day, plus 2 p.m. June 4. Catholic homeschool group theater performance, SS. Peter and Paul Gym, 145 Railway St., Loretto.

Free-will offering. Information: www.facebook.com/homeschoolss or (612) 730-5258.

www.btcsmn.org or (612) 866-6906.

Rummage sale — May 7-9: 9 a.m.-7 p.m.

May 7, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. May 8 and 8 a.m.-noon May 9 (“bag day”) at the St. Austin campus of St. Bridget parish, 41st Street N. and Thomas Avenue N. in Minneapolis.

Matching grant rummage sale — May 7-8: 7 a.m.-7 p.m. May 7 and 7 a.m.3 p.m. May 8 (bag and bargain day) at St. Victoria parish center, 8228 Victoria Drive in Victoria. All proceeds benefit the parish education program. Matching grant from Catholic United Financial.

Spring Fling — May 8: 5:30 p.m., St. Michael, 22120 Denmark Ave., Farmington.

Dinner, games. $50. Tickets after Mass and at the parish office. www.stmichael-farmington. org or (651) 463-3360.

Springfest — May 15-17: 5-10:30 p.m. May 15, 11 a.m.-10:30 p.m. May 16, 10 a.m.5 p.m. May 17. Epiphany Parish, 11001 Hanson Blvd., Coon Rapids. Information: www.epiphanymn.org or email springfest@ epiphanymn.org.

St. Mark parish festival — May 15-16: 5 p.m. May 15, 11 a.m. May 16, 2001 Dayton Ave., St. Paul. Information: www.saintmarkmn.org or call Alison (651) 645-5717.

150th anniversary of St. Mary, St. Paul — May 16: 4:30 p.m. Mass with Archbishop John Nienstedt, followed by dinner dance. $15. Information: (651) 222-2619. 261 E. Eighth St., St. Paul.

Fit for Life 5k — May 16: 8 a.m. Mass at St. Henry, 1001 7th St. E, Monticello, 9:30 a.m. 1k kids’ fun run, 10 a.m. chip-timed 5k. Fundraiser for Holy Spirit Academy.

Information and registration: www.hsfitforlife. com.

RunWalkPray5K — May 16: 9 a.m., Pax Christi, Pioneer Trail and Homeward Hills Road, Eden Prairie. Run, jog or walk the course, walk the labyrinth or pray the rosary in the chapel. Registration deadline either by mail or online by May 11 at www.paxchristi. com. Late registrations 8 a.m. day of race.

Rummage sale — May 20-22: 3-7 p.m.

May 20; 9 a.m.-5 p.m. May 21 and 9 a.m.noon May 22 ($2 bag day), St. Cyril Church basement, 13th Ave. and Second St. NE, Minneapolis. Donations accepted May 11-19 from 3-6 p.m. by the elevator door.

Prayer and liturgy

Parish events

Healing Mass — May 12: 7 p.m.,Holy Name of Jesus, 155 County Rd. 24, Wayzata.

Rosary at 6:30 p.m.

Rummage sale — May 6-9: Presale 5-8 p.m. May 6 ($1 admission); 8 a.m.-7 p.m.

May 7-8; 8 a.m.-4 p.m.; May 9, 8 a.m.-noon, Nicollet Campus gym of Blessed Trinity School, 6720 Nicollet Ave. S, Richfield. Information:

Healing Mass — May 19: 7 p.m. rosary, followed by Mass with Father James Livingston, St. Joseph Church campus of St. Gabriel the Archangel, 1310 Mainstreet, Hopkins.

CALENDAR submissions DEADLINE: Noon Thursday, 14 days before the anticipated Thursday date of publication.

Recurring or ongoing events must be submitted each time they occur.

LISTINGS: Accepted are brief notices of upcoming events hosted by Catholic parishes and institutions. If the Catholic connection is not clear, please emphasize it in your press release.

ITEMS MUST INCLUDE the following to be considered for publication in the calendar: • Time and date of event.

• Full street address of event.

• Description of event.

More • Contact information in case of questions. events EMAIL: spiritcalendar@archspm.org.

(No attachments, please.) online MAIL: “Calendar,” The Catholic Spirit; TheCatholicSpirit.com 244 Dayton Ave. • St. Paul, MN 55102.

May 7, 2015 • The Catholic Spirit

Annual All-City Charismatic Pentecost Mass — May 24: 3 p.m., Immaculate Conception Church, 4030 Jackson St. NE, Columbia Heights. Bishop Lee Piché principal celebrant. Sponsored by Catholic Charismatic Renewal Office. Praise and worship begins at 2 p.m. Information: ww.ccro-msp.org or (763) 571-5314.

Hymn Festival — June 1: 7-8 p.m., St. Bartholomew Church, 630 E. Wayzata Blvd., Wayzata. Celebration of publication of “We Contemplate the Mystery,” second volume of hymn texts by Father Michael Joncas. Free.

Information: Richard Clarke at (962) 745-44567 or rclarke@st-barts.org.

Retreats Rachel’s Vineyard retreat — May 8-10: For women recovering from abortion. Contact rachels@rvineyardmn.org or (763) 250-9313 for location, information, registration.

Summer Silent Directed Retreat — June 22-28: At Franciscan Retreats and Spirituality Center, 16385 St. Francis Lane, Prior Lake.

Directors include Father Jim Van Dorn, OFM Conv., Kris Joseph, Debbie Koop and Corrine Kindschy. Details and reservations: (952) 4472182 or Secretary@FranciscanRetreats.net.

Nurturing Beauty on Your Spiritual Journey — May 11: 6-9 p.m., with Benedictine Sister Paula Hagen, The Benedictine Center, 2675 Benet Road, Maplewood. $30. Online Registration: www.stpaulsmonastery.org. Information: benedictinecenter@stpaulsmonastery.org or call (651) 777-7251.

Schools Holy Family Academy golf fundraiser — June 15: 10:30 a.m. shotgun start, Brookview Golf Course, 200 Brookview Parkway, Golden Valley. Information: www.hfamn.org or (952) 925-9193.

St. Helena School benefit golf tournament — June 6: 4-person, 9-hole scramble, Hiawatha Golf Course. $55 per player ($35 juniors), includes lunch and cart.

Information: Krysta Niznick (612) 709-6467 or krystaniznick@comcast.net.

Other events “God’s Beauty – Paper Collage” — through May 10: Pax Christi, 12100 Pioneer Trail, Eden Prairie. Works of Raynele Schneider.

57th annual Franciscan International Award Dinner — May 7: 6 p.m., Wilds Golf Club, 3151 Wilds Parkway NW, Prior Lake.

Honoring Feed My Starving Children. $60 for individuals; $150 for two at benefactor level.

For tickets: (952) 447-2182.

Wakota Life Care Walk for Life and family fun fest — May 16: 10 a.m., Thompson County Park, 360 Butler Ave. E, West St. Paul.

Need a pledge sheet? Information: (651) 457-1195.

Grief support — Thursdays through May 28: 4 p.m., West Suburban Grief Coalition, Holy Name of Jesus, 155 Cty. Road 24, Wayzata. Free-will offering. For information: (952) 473-7901.

September Marian pilgrimage — Registration deadline May 31 or when seats are filled: Sept. 7-18 tour to Fatima, Lourdes, Paris, etc., with Father Mark Pavlik. Information and registration: catholicpilgrimagetours.com, (651) 245-9451 or LMS.totustuus@gmail.com.

31

Father Treco a veteran evangelizer Continued from page 5

Archbishop John Nienstedt offers the greeting of peace to Deacon Vaughn Treco May 2 at the Basilica of St. Mary in Minneapolis. The archbishop ordained Treco a deacon one day before the former Anglican priest became Father Treco, when ordained a Catholic priest by Bishop Andrew Cozzens at Holy Family Church in St. Louis Park. Dianne Towalski/For The Catholic Spirit

Community Church in the Bahamas, an Evangelical church with a mission focused on attracting young, collegeeducated people to an updated Christian community.

He served on the staff of the Cathedral Church of the King in Olathe, Kansas, where he was ordained in 1997. He was the Charismatic Episcopal Church archbishop’s theologian and director of the seminary until he listened to audio tapes by Scott Hahn, “Answers to Common Objections.”

In an interview on EWTN, he said that after listening to the tapes over a weekend, he asked himself, “If I believe all of these things, why am I not Roman Catholic?”

Nine months later, in 1999, he began the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults and became a Catholic in 2000.

Since then he has served in Catholic pastoral ministry as program director for marriage preparation and enrichment in the Diocese of Arlington, Virginia; as a parish youth

minister, and established “parishREACH,” a program that trains and equips Catholics for the ministry of evangelizing.

For three years he did Catholic graduate theological studies in Arlington and completed another six-month program in Catholic theology in Houston, Texas, in 2013.

Lyrical, poetic worship The Divine Worship of the Ordinariate of the Chair of St. Peter — what was formerly called the “Anglican-use” Mass — “harkens back to a Tridentine kind of complexity,” Father Treco explained.

“The chief difference is that the liturgy takes its linguistic cues and traditions from the Anglican Communion,” he said.

Catholics used to the Roman Rite that is regularly celebrated at parishes across the archdiocese would find the ordinariate’s Divine Worship lyrical, he said, and would sense a poetic character to the prayer that Father Treco described as “more penetrating.”

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UNITED STATES BANKRUPTCY COURT DISTRICT OF MINNESOTA In re: The Archdiocese of Saint Paul and Minneapolis Case No. 15-30125 YOU MAY HAVE A CLAIM AGAINST THE ARCHDIOCESE OF SAINT PAUL AND MINNEAPOLIS On January 16, 2015, The Archdiocese of Saint Paul and Minneapolis filed for protection under Chapter 11 of Title 11 of the United States Code.

The last day to file a SEXUAL ABUSE CLAIM, GENERAL CLAIM, or GOVERNMENT CLAIM against the Debtor is August 3, 2015.

• If you were sexually abused by any person connected with the debtor, then you must file a claim by August 3, 2015. Sexual abuse, as used in this notice, includes molestation, rape, undue familiarity, sexually-related physical, psychological or emotional harm, or contacts or interactions of a sexual nature between a child and an adult, or a non-consenting adult and another adult.

• If you are a person, entity, or Governmental Unit (as defined by Bankruptcy Code § 101(27)), and claim any right to payment or to an equitable remedy for breach of performance if such breach gives rise to a right to payment, then you must file a claim by August 3, 2015.

YOU MUST ACT NOW TO PRESERVE YOUR RIGHTS For more information on how to obtain and file a proof of claim and associated documents please: (a) visit the debtor’s website at http://information.archspm.org/; (b) visit the website of the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the District of Minnesota at http://www.mnb. uscourts.gov; (c) call the Debtor’s toll-free hotline at 866-868 4808; or (d) call the Official Committee of Unsecured Creditors appointed in this case at 612-335-1407.

May 7, 2015 • The Catholic Spirit

Sharing giggles and God

The Last Word

32

Baibi Vegners of the Splatter Sisters leads mothers and daughters in a dance during a performance at St. Odilia in Shoreview. She has been a member of the trio since the 1990s, and the group has been performing for 25 years.

At 25, Splatter Sisters entertaining a new generation

By Dave Hrbacek The Catholic Spirit

T

Above, Tyler Lillemo holds his daughter Sarah. In the background is Tyler’s dad, Ken. Below, from left: Kids at St. Odilia react to the Splatter Sisters; Baibi Vegners, Colleen Hiebeler and Mary Beth Hess pump up the energy during their show at St. Odilia; Baibi Vegners engages her young audience.

yler Lillemo of St. Odilia in Shoreview smiled with delight as he watched his three young daughters jump, dance and sing at a performance by the Splatter Sisters April 27 at his parish.

It was deja vu for Lillemo, who 20 years ago watched the three women perform at St. Odilia while he was a student there.

This year, the Splatter Sisters turned 25, with one member of the trio — Mary Beth Hess of St. Odilia — having been part of the group the entire time. The other two members, Colleen Hiebeler and Baibi Vegners, joined in the 1990s and are nearing their 20th year. Like Hess, they’re both Catholic; Hiebeler attends Incarnation in Minneapolis and Vegners attends Pax Christi in Eden Prairie.

“It was good; the kids seemed to love it,” said Lillemo, who came with his wife, Angela, and their four children — Sarah, 6; Hope, 5; Teresa, 3; and John, 1.

“It’s pretty entertaining for adults, too. Watching your kids dance is pretty cool.”

Tyler brought John to the front for the father/son dance. Boogeying right next to him was Chris Brossart

Photos by Dave Hrbacek/The Catholic Spirit May 7, 2015 • The Catholic Spirit

and his 2-year-old son, Vaughn. Chris, too, had watched the Splatter Sisters perform as a youngster. He was there this time with his wife, Abby, daughter Mira, 4, and Vaughn.

“I remember it was in the gym, and I remember that they were very high energy,” Chris said of the performance he saw in the eighth grade. “It’s nice to have a community like St. Odilia’s where we can have multi-generational experiences like this.”

The Lillemos represented three generations at the April 27 concert. Tyler’s parents, Ken and Mary, also came.

“We know Mary Beth very well,” Mary said. “We wanted to see her.”

As for the performers themselves, they have had one simple goal for their shows, which are geared to younger audiences — fun, with just a little faith sprinkled in when they are at Catholic venues like schools and parishes.

“We want kids to have fun,” said Hess, whose three children, now grown, saw many of the group’s shows over the years. “We talk about our faith. We’re serious about our faith, but we want it to be fun for the kids, so that they grow up thinking faith can be fun.”