Tutsi Priest brings message of hope and healing
Diocesan Trauma Recovery Program to debut in Rwanda this November
Fr. Ubald Rugirangoga, a native Rwanda priest, recently captivated an audience at St. Thomas More Parish, Kalamazoo with his inspirational story of love, forgiveness and reconciliation in the wake of the horrific genocide that claimed his mother and most of his family. Speaking through an interpreter the French-speaking Fr. Ubald provided amazing testimony of murderers living in community with their victims’ families.
Fr. Ubald is a Catholic Tutsi priest from the Mushaka Parish in Rwanda. He was ordered out of his country and was spared from the 1994 genocide; however, 80 members of his family and more than 3,000 of his parishioners were killed. He returned to Rwanda five months after the genocide to begin to facilitate healing and reconciliation. His gift for healing is profound and Fr. Ubald said, “I’ve preached for a long time that the only way to liberate man and heal him of his interior wounds is through reconciliation and pardon. I had a vision to speak about peace, reconciliation and pardon, and to pray for healing.” He is working to establish a Center designed to facilitate forgiveness and healing in his diocese.
“Forgiveness starts with the victims,” explains Fr. Ubald. Prisoners are granted freedom by the government only when the killers ask for forgiveness and meet with their victims’ families. They are then integrated back into their tribal communities.
“The one who asks and the one who forgives are granted peace,” says Fr. Ubald. Determined to practice what he preaches, Fr. Ubald is currently providing for the schooling of the two children, an 18-year old boy and 16-year-old girl, of the man who killed his mother. Beaming, Father explains that the young girl’s plans to be a doctor are good since she can then take care of him when he is an old man.
Fr. Ubald believes he’s been given the gift of healing and celebrated a healing Mass on June 22 at St. Thomas More which was attended by more than 100 people. In addition he plans to provide physical, spiritual and emotional healing at the newly formed Center for Peace. One of the main goals of the Center will be to aid people in external and internal healing and those suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder.
His evening reflection at St. Thomas More was one of many stops in the U.S. the priest is making. He was invited by Fr. Kenneth Schmidt and Sharon Froom, director of the diocesan Trauma Recovery Program. Both are headed to Rwanda this coming November at the invitation of Fr. Ubald who met Froom at a conference in California.
The Trauma Recovery Program, which began in 2002, is a 10-session program for any adult survivor of childhood abuse and/or neglect. Fr. Ken and Froom will be conducting two workshops for priests as well as more than 125 medical personnel and school directors to recognize the signs and treat the symptoms of trauma. the signs of trauma.
“It’s an incredible affirmation for our diocese and the program,” remarks Fr. Ken who adds that the Trauma Recovery Program begun in the Diocese of Kalamazoo has been adopted in other dioceses such as Los Angeles and Orange County, and is cited as a model nationally for those victims working to heal from life-long wounds and live healthy and productive lives.
Given the extreme poverty of the country, Froom and Fr. Ken are raising the $25,000
necessary to produce the programs which includes housing and food costs for all participants. While still in its initial stages of fundraising they have already received support from clergy and other professionals who will be “adopting a colleague” and underwriting the amount of a participants’ cost.
Diocese establishes fund named in honor of Bishop Paul V. Donovan
Last month on the Solemnity of Saint Peter and Saint Paul priests from around the diocese gathered to honor those marking special anniversaries including founding Bishop Emeritus Paul V. Donovan who celebrated his 60th anniversary in May.
To honor the 39 years of service Bishop Donovan provided to the diocese, Bishop Paul J. Bradley announced the establishment of “The Bishop Paul V. Donovan Shepherds’ Care Fund to benefit both seminarians and retired priests.
In presenting a commemorative plaque to Bishop Donovan, Bishop Bradley said, “In the spirit of Bishop Donovan’s significant work in furthering the mission of the Church in the Diocese of Kalamazoo, it seemed especially fitting to honor him by establishing this fund which now, and for years to come, will benefit those shepherds who sacrifice in their service to the Church.”
Bishop Donovan was named founding bishop of the diocese when it was created July 21, 1971. He lead the diocese as bishop until his retirement November 22, 1994.
Going for the Gold: Knights honor special athletes
By Mary Brost Reck
A special group of athletes recently saw all their hard work pay off, as they qualified to attend the Michigan State Special Olympics at Central Michigan University in Mt. Pleasant June 3-5. The area 17 Special Olympics program, which includes Van Buren, Berrien, and Cass counties, sent 72 athletes with 14 coaches and chaperones to the state games.
As a show of their support for these athletes, the Knights of Columbus Council 3798 in Paw Paw treated the group to a special send-off breakfast as they left for the state competition. This is the second year the Knights provided this service for the area Special Olympians.
“This is a small token of our thanks to all the young men and women for all their hard work,” said Grand Knight Philip Hover. “To all the coaches for all the time you put in: thank you for all of your effort.”
For more than 25 years, the Knights have sponsored a Tootsie Roll drive and other fund raisers to collect funds to support the Special Olympics and assist people with intellectual disabilities. The Special Olympics breakfast gave local Knights the opportunity to also provide hands-on service to those they benefit.
The athletes, their coaches and chaperones were provided a hearty breakfast of eggs, sausage, pancakes, hash browns, fruit, and juice. The meal was prepared by Council 3798 members. Following breakfast, the teams boarded vans for a special police and fire-engine escort out of town. According to some of the athletes who participated last year – the best part of the trip is getting to go through the red lights.Showcasing teamwork
The Special Olympics offers young people with developmental disabilities the opportunity to showcase their talents and teamwork. According to area coach Laurie Newton, the athletes “qualify through local games, regular attendance, and behavior.” She noted they try to help all of the athletes show they are winners.
“Athletes are selected for Summer Games and other state level competitions through a combination of achievement and benefit to each individual,” added coach Tim McDaniels. “All athletes must train in their respective sports and compete in the area level games competitions… They then go through a selection process including effort, achievement, and how much the advancement and attendance will positively benefit the athlete.”
Two local celebrities were also present to cheer on the athletes. Miss Southwest Michigan Whitney Munger of Coloma and Miss Southwest Michigan Teen Brytanie Killebrew of St. Joseph accompanied the team. Special Olympics is Munger’s platform. Her brother, Jacob, competed in bowling at the games.
Local artists explore theme of love and forgiveness
The Visual Art of Love and Forgiveness
The Carnegie Center for the Arts, August 22 through October 17th
The work of twelve local artists exploring the theme of love and forgiveness are featured in a new exhibit housed a the Carnegie Center for the Arts, Three Rivers. “The Visual Art of Love and Forgiveness,” sponsored by the Office of Christian Worship and the Art Committee of the Diocesan Worship Committee is designed to give visual shape to the theme as expressed through sacred and spiritual art.
Also featured in the exhibit are sculptures and carvings of two private Santos collections from the New Mexico religious tradition [see related story page 12].
“The arts have the power to serve as visual witness to the truth, theby allowing healing and reconciliation to take root,” says David Reilly, director of the Office of Christian Worship.
Exhibiting artists include: Anne Anson, Kim Dixon, Anne Labat-Gepert, Francis Granzotto, Garrylee McCormick, Michael Northrop, Nancy Stroupe, Susan Teague, Bill Tye, Karla Tye, Karen Vosburg and Jerry Westgerdes.
The exhibit which is open to the public with free admission begins August 22 and runs through October 17th. The Carnegie center for the Arts is located at 107 N. Main Street, Three Rivers. Hours are Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.; and Saturday 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. The Center is closed Sundays and Mondays. An opening reception is planned for Sunday, August 22nd, 2 – 4 p.m.
For more information contact: The Office of Christian Worship, 269-349-8714, ext. 245.
Pack faith and fun into your family’s vacation
By Madeleine Socia
You don’t have to plan a pricey around-the-world pilgrimage to pack faith as well as fun into your family’s summer vacation plans. Just take the time to include a few delightful detours into your Great Lakes area itinerary.
Saintly Site-Seeing in Detroit
Heading to Detroit to take in a Tiger game? Schedule an extra hour to travel four miles northeast of Comerica Park and visit the Solanus Casey Center which celebrates the life of the monk who may become North America’s first male saint, the Venerable Solanus Casey.
The Center is adjacent to the Capuchin Franciscan Friars’ St. Bonaventure Monastery. The Capuchins have been ministering to the needs of Detroit’s poor since 1883. Their soup kitchen currently serves more than 2,000 meals per day.
One of 16 children of Irish immigrant parents, Bernard Francis Casey was born in 1870 on a farm in Wisconsin. After a series of odd jobs, he joined the Capuchins, but struggled with his studies at the seminary where classes were taught in German. He was ordained in 1904 and received the religious name Solanus. Because of his poor academic performance, he was ordained a “sacerdotus simplex” which prevented him from hearing confessions and preaching doctrinal sermons.
Fr. Solanus came to Detroit in 1924 and was relegated to the lowly position of porter. Yet over the next 20 years, he opened the door, and his extraordinary faith, to visitors from every walk of life. Many of those he counseled made amazing claims of healings as a result of his prayers. These seemingly miraculous occurrences continued, through his intersession, long after his death in 1957.
A cause for sainthood was launched in 1982 and continues to this day. Pope Paul II declared him worthy of veneration in 1995.
Call ahead to arrange for a guided tour of the Center, which includes a video about Fr. Solanus, a chance to explore life-size sculptures depicting the Beatitudes and an opportunity to say a prayer, or leave an intention, at the crypt of Fr. Solanus. The tour is free, but voluntary donations to the Fr. Solanus Guild which operates the Center are accepted. For more information, click on www.solanuscenter.org or call (313) 579-2100.
Devine Destination in St. John, Indiana
Just over an hour southwest of New Buffalo’s beaches and the big bargains of Michigan City’s Lighthouse Place Outlet Mall, you can walk the Way of the Cross at the Shrine of Christ’s Passion in St. John, Indiana — From the Last Supper to the Garden of Gethsemane, the Gospel comes to life along a winding garden path featuring 40 bronze sculptures by noted Texas artist Mickey Wells. Each tableau features narration and prayers voiced by famed broadcaster Bill Kurtis along with contemplative musical selections.
A volunteer staff is available to assist with tours and guide you through the visitor’s center and religious goods store. Parking is free but voluntary donations are accepted. For more information, click on www.shrineofchristspassion.org or call (219) 322-7000.
Holy Hospitality in Chicago
Why spend your next Windy City weekend at an expensive hotel when the whole family can enjoy a peaceful stay at the award-winning Benedictine Bed and Breakfast, adjacent to Chicago’s Monastery of the Holy Cross
Nestled just south of the Loop in Chicago’s multi-ethnic Bridgeport neighborhood, this cozy B&B is just a short drive from the city’s famed museums, the shops on Michigan Avenue, the kid friendly attractions of Navy Pier and games at Comiskey Park.
Those seeking prayerful pastimes can check the Monastery’s Mass schedule in each room or cab it to area shrines dedicated to St. Jude, St. Francis Xavier Cabrini or Our Lady of Pompeii.
Guests can settle into the two-bedroom Garden House, featuring a fridge stocked with everything needed to make a scrumptious self-serve breakfast.
Larger families may want to book the three-bedroom Loft Apartment, which comes with a heavenly breakfast featuring pancakes, French toast, Eggs Benedict and more, prepared by the monks each morning. Parents will appreciate the fact that kids under age 18 stay free and there is a park, complete with a playground, right across the street. Reservations can be made by clicking www.chicagomonk.org, or calling 1-888-539-4261.
Playing and Praying together at Lake Delton, Wisconsin
Spend the Labor Day weekend less than a half-hour southwest of the Wisconsin Dells in Lake Delton at Camp Gray — a place where families can spend the holiday playing and praying together. Camp Gray, owned by the Catholic Diocese of Madison, Wisconsin, refreshes the mind, body and spirit.
From Saturday through Monday, parents and children can indulge in hours of arts and crafts, archery, mountain biking, rock climbing, horseback riding, fishing and more. Evenings begin with the celebration of Holy Mass and conclude with s’mores around the campfire.
Reasonable rates make this destination a real miracle for moms and dads on a tight budget. The maximum charge for families who opt to bunk in the St. Vincent’s Retreat Center is $325. Folks who prefer cabins, tents or RVs pay just $276. This includes the cost of all meals and most recreational programs. For reservations, go to www.campgray.com or call 1-800-711-4729.
Renewal program ignites faith for participants at St. Mary, Marshall
By Vicki Cessna
After countless endorsements of a renewal program from in-laws, Brendan McCarthy just had to find out for himself what the fuss was all about. McCarthy, a St. Mary’s parishioner in Marshall, along with his wife, decided to explore the national program Christ Renews His Parish (CRHP).
“My wife’s sister and her husband told us over and over again about CRHP,” remembers McCarthy. “We kept thinking we’re letting our kids down and our generation down if we don’t do something for adults and their faith.”
After attending the CRHP weekend experience in a parish in the Lansing diocese McCarthy was even more convinced he needed to bring the program to St. Mary’s.
Christ Renews His Parish is a national program with the goal of spiritual renewal with parishioners that turns into parish renewal. The program includes an initial weekend where participants spend time reflecting on their own faith journey. After that participants go into formation and prepare the next weekend experience — and the cycle continues.
According to Bob Edwards, who has helped shepherd the program nationally out of an office in Cleveland, “In four decades of parish ministry, we have never marketed or advertised Christ Renews His Parish. We have never been financially supported by a parish, a diocese or a publishing house.”
In 2009 more than 50 parishes across the country conducted its first CRHP program and to date more than 1,100 parishes representing 35 states and four countries have begun the experience.
At St. Mary’s approximately 55 male parishioners and 85 female parishioners have embarked on a CRHP weekend which includes opportunity for prayer and reflection along with sacramental opportunities such as Mass and Reconcilation. The weekends are gender-specific and participants sleep on cots in the gym.
Since the parish begun the CRHP program McCarthy believes it’s helped increase the level of participation in other parish activities. “CRHP participants seem to be more involved in the parish,” he notes. Of course one can’t ignore the tremendous personal benefit.
“It’s purposely not called a ‘retreat’ explains McCarthy. “The weekend is only one part of the renewal process. The time afterwards allows people to truly witness how God is at work in your life.” While initially a bit hesitant to take on another project, Fr. Stephen Naas, pastor, now extols the benefits of CRHP and admits the lay person-driven program is quite manageable.
"One of the great strengths of CRHP is that it has given people an ability to connect on more than a surface level. In other words, a lot more people know a lot more people a whole lot more deeply.”
In order for Fr. Naas to be devoted to the weekend, another priest is brought in to say Mass and help with Reconciliation during the weekends which are typically offered twice a year for both men and women participants.
Members of St. Mary’s are excited to help other parishes begin the CRHP renewal program and will come to a parish to give the first weekend experience. At the last weekends held this past May participants from two local Kalamazoo parishes attended with an eye for bringing the program to their parish.
Bridges Mental Health Counseling helps those struggling improve their lives
By Susan Baker
What exactly is mental health therapy and how can it help people? Does it mean you are “crazy” if you go to a therapist? Of course not, yet some people still don’t fully understand it or have outdated ideas about exactly what it is. In previous generations, people didn’t know as much about the mind-body connection as we do now and people were left on their own to struggle with their problems. Therapy was available only for those with serious mental health problems, but that is no longer the case.
Mental health therapy is helpful for people of all ages who are struggling with all sorts of issues, such as stress management, substance abuse, addictions, family, marital or parenting problems, depression, or coping with trauma or the loss of a loved one. The challenging economic climate in our area has resulted in many more people seeking help.
Professional counselors help people of all ages feel supported, sort out their feelings, find solutions, develop coping skills and generally feel better about themselves.
Sometimes, deciding to seek professional help can be hard. Most people never question the need to seek medical help for a physical disease or sickness, yet mental health issues sometimes go untreated.
Yet there is no need to suffer in silence or alone. Help is available! Psychotherapists are professionally trained to help people identify their true feelings, overcome difficulties, develop or tap into inner strengths and make positive changes in thought patterns and behaviors.
Don’t settle for living at less than your potential. Help and support is there when you — or a loved one — need it. Live life to the maximum. Our experienced staff includes Master’s level therapists and we accept most insurances and offer flexible fees. Daytime and evening appointments are available.
Call 269-381-9800 for a confidential assessment and appointment.
Clergy Assignments Announced
Bishop Paul J. Bradley has announced the following clergy assignments for the Diocese of Kalamazoo which become effective July 12th unless noted otherwise.
More than 2.5 million pledged for Bishop’s Annual Appeal
Parishioners across the nine-county region of the diocese have responded generously to the 2010 Bishop’s Annual Appeal with more than $2.5 million pledged to date.
At press time, sixteen parishes have already met and surpassed their parish goals including: St. Augustine Cathedral Parish, Kalamazoo; SS John & Bernard Parish, Benton Harbor; Our Lady of the Lake Parish, Edwardsburg; St. Ambrose Parish, Delton; Our Lady of Great Oak Parish, Lacey; St. Edward Parish, Mendon; St. Ambrose Parish, Parchment; Immaculate Conception Parish, Three Rivers; St. Clare Parish, Centreville; St. Jude Parish, Gobles; St. Martin Parish, Vicksburg; St. Mark Parish, Niles; St. Joseph Parish, Kalamazoo; St. Rose of Lima Parish, Hastings; St. Margaret Mary, Marcellus; and St. Mary Parish, Niles.
Diocese moves ahead with Plans for revised Roman Missal
By David Reilly, Director of the Office of Worship
Recently the Holy See has given approval for the English translation of the Third Edition of the Roman Missal for use throughout the United States. Currently the Missal is undergoing final editing in Rome. Once the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops receives the final text from the Vatican they will begin to work with the publishers to prepare the Missal for publication.
Since the Missal contains such a vast array of texts, the publication process is expected to take up to one year. The exact time for implementation has yet to be determined by the U.S. Bishops although it is anticipated to be Advent of 2011. Use of the prayers of the Missal at Mass is prohibited until the approved date.
In order to begin preparations to implement the Roman Missal Bishop Paul J. Bradley convened a group of leaders, the Roman Missal Planning Team, last month to begin the process in earnest. These leaders represent the various ministries which serve our Church throughout the Diocese of Kalamazoo.
The Roman Missal Planning Team will develop an overall strategy for the implementation of the Third Edition of the Roman Missal, identify goals and establish the 18 month time line to prepare for implementation. The work of the Planning Team will then be handed over to a different group of leaders, the Implementation Team, which will assist the priests and parish leaders with the process for implementation over the next 18 months. For more information about the Roman Missal project visit the website of the US Bishops at www.usccb.org/romanmissal or the Federation of Diocesan Liturgical Commissions at www.fdlc.org or call the Diocesan Office of Christian Worship at 269-903-0193.
Diocesan Trauma Recovery Program to debut in Rwanda this November
Fr. Ubald Rugirangoga, a native Rwanda priest, recently captivated an audience at St. Thomas More Parish, Kalamazoo with his inspirational story of love, forgiveness and reconciliation in the wake of the horrific genocide that claimed his mother and most of his family. Speaking through an interpreter the French-speaking Fr. Ubald provided amazing testimony of murderers living in community with their victims’ families.
Fr. Ubald is a Catholic Tutsi priest from the Mushaka Parish in Rwanda. He was ordered out of his country and was spared from the 1994 genocide; however, 80 members of his family and more than 3,000 of his parishioners were killed. He returned to Rwanda five months after the genocide to begin to facilitate healing and reconciliation. His gift for healing is profound and Fr. Ubald said, “I’ve preached for a long time that the only way to liberate man and heal him of his interior wounds is through reconciliation and pardon. I had a vision to speak about peace, reconciliation and pardon, and to pray for healing.” He is working to establish a Center designed to facilitate forgiveness and healing in his diocese.
“Forgiveness starts with the victims,” explains Fr. Ubald. Prisoners are granted freedom by the government only when the killers ask for forgiveness and meet with their victims’ families. They are then integrated back into their tribal communities.
“The one who asks and the one who forgives are granted peace,” says Fr. Ubald. Determined to practice what he preaches, Fr. Ubald is currently providing for the schooling of the two children, an 18-year old boy and 16-year-old girl, of the man who killed his mother. Beaming, Father explains that the young girl’s plans to be a doctor are good since she can then take care of him when he is an old man.
Fr. Ubald believes he’s been given the gift of healing and celebrated a healing Mass on June 22 at St. Thomas More which was attended by more than 100 people. In addition he plans to provide physical, spiritual and emotional healing at the newly formed Center for Peace. One of the main goals of the Center will be to aid people in external and internal healing and those suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder.
His evening reflection at St. Thomas More was one of many stops in the U.S. the priest is making. He was invited by Fr. Kenneth Schmidt and Sharon Froom, director of the diocesan Trauma Recovery Program. Both are headed to Rwanda this coming November at the invitation of Fr. Ubald who met Froom at a conference in California.
The Trauma Recovery Program, which began in 2002, is a 10-session program for any adult survivor of childhood abuse and/or neglect. Fr. Ken and Froom will be conducting two workshops for priests as well as more than 125 medical personnel and school directors to recognize the signs and treat the symptoms of trauma. the signs of trauma.
“It’s an incredible affirmation for our diocese and the program,” remarks Fr. Ken who adds that the Trauma Recovery Program begun in the Diocese of Kalamazoo has been adopted in other dioceses such as Los Angeles and Orange County, and is cited as a model nationally for those victims working to heal from life-long wounds and live healthy and productive lives.
Given the extreme poverty of the country, Froom and Fr. Ken are raising the $25,000
necessary to produce the programs which includes housing and food costs for all participants. While still in its initial stages of fundraising they have already received support from clergy and other professionals who will be “adopting a colleague” and underwriting the amount of a participants’ cost.
Diocese establishes fund named in honor of Bishop Paul V. Donovan
Last month on the Solemnity of Saint Peter and Saint Paul priests from around the diocese gathered to honor those marking special anniversaries including founding Bishop Emeritus Paul V. Donovan who celebrated his 60th anniversary in May.
To honor the 39 years of service Bishop Donovan provided to the diocese, Bishop Paul J. Bradley announced the establishment of “The Bishop Paul V. Donovan Shepherds’ Care Fund to benefit both seminarians and retired priests.
In presenting a commemorative plaque to Bishop Donovan, Bishop Bradley said, “In the spirit of Bishop Donovan’s significant work in furthering the mission of the Church in the Diocese of Kalamazoo, it seemed especially fitting to honor him by establishing this fund which now, and for years to come, will benefit those shepherds who sacrifice in their service to the Church.”
Bishop Donovan was named founding bishop of the diocese when it was created July 21, 1971. He lead the diocese as bishop until his retirement November 22, 1994.
Anyone interested in making a donation to The Bishop Paul V. Donovan Shepherds’ Care Fund may contact The Diocese of Kalamazoo, Development Office, 269-349-8714, ext. 353.
Going for the Gold: Knights honor special athletes
By Mary Brost Reck
A special group of athletes recently saw all their hard work pay off, as they qualified to attend the Michigan State Special Olympics at Central Michigan University in Mt. Pleasant June 3-5. The area 17 Special Olympics program, which includes Van Buren, Berrien, and Cass counties, sent 72 athletes with 14 coaches and chaperones to the state games.
As a show of their support for these athletes, the Knights of Columbus Council 3798 in Paw Paw treated the group to a special send-off breakfast as they left for the state competition. This is the second year the Knights provided this service for the area Special Olympians.
“This is a small token of our thanks to all the young men and women for all their hard work,” said Grand Knight Philip Hover. “To all the coaches for all the time you put in: thank you for all of your effort.”
For more than 25 years, the Knights have sponsored a Tootsie Roll drive and other fund raisers to collect funds to support the Special Olympics and assist people with intellectual disabilities. The Special Olympics breakfast gave local Knights the opportunity to also provide hands-on service to those they benefit.
The athletes, their coaches and chaperones were provided a hearty breakfast of eggs, sausage, pancakes, hash browns, fruit, and juice. The meal was prepared by Council 3798 members. Following breakfast, the teams boarded vans for a special police and fire-engine escort out of town. According to some of the athletes who participated last year – the best part of the trip is getting to go through the red lights.Showcasing teamwork
The Special Olympics offers young people with developmental disabilities the opportunity to showcase their talents and teamwork. According to area coach Laurie Newton, the athletes “qualify through local games, regular attendance, and behavior.” She noted they try to help all of the athletes show they are winners.
“Athletes are selected for Summer Games and other state level competitions through a combination of achievement and benefit to each individual,” added coach Tim McDaniels. “All athletes must train in their respective sports and compete in the area level games competitions… They then go through a selection process including effort, achievement, and how much the advancement and attendance will positively benefit the athlete.”
Two local celebrities were also present to cheer on the athletes. Miss Southwest Michigan Whitney Munger of Coloma and Miss Southwest Michigan Teen Brytanie Killebrew of St. Joseph accompanied the team. Special Olympics is Munger’s platform. Her brother, Jacob, competed in bowling at the games.
Local artists explore theme of love and forgiveness
The Visual Art of Love and Forgiveness
The Carnegie Center for the Arts, August 22 through October 17th
The work of twelve local artists exploring the theme of love and forgiveness are featured in a new exhibit housed a the Carnegie Center for the Arts, Three Rivers. “The Visual Art of Love and Forgiveness,” sponsored by the Office of Christian Worship and the Art Committee of the Diocesan Worship Committee is designed to give visual shape to the theme as expressed through sacred and spiritual art.
Also featured in the exhibit are sculptures and carvings of two private Santos collections from the New Mexico religious tradition [see related story page 12].
“The arts have the power to serve as visual witness to the truth, theby allowing healing and reconciliation to take root,” says David Reilly, director of the Office of Christian Worship.
Exhibiting artists include: Anne Anson, Kim Dixon, Anne Labat-Gepert, Francis Granzotto, Garrylee McCormick, Michael Northrop, Nancy Stroupe, Susan Teague, Bill Tye, Karla Tye, Karen Vosburg and Jerry Westgerdes.
The exhibit which is open to the public with free admission begins August 22 and runs through October 17th. The Carnegie center for the Arts is located at 107 N. Main Street, Three Rivers. Hours are Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.; and Saturday 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. The Center is closed Sundays and Mondays. An opening reception is planned for Sunday, August 22nd, 2 – 4 p.m.
For more information contact: The Office of Christian Worship, 269-349-8714, ext. 245.
New Mexican “Santos” to be featured in diocesan art exhibit
By David Reilly
Director, Office of Worship
Over the past several hundred years artists in New Mexico have been creating a unique style of sacred art that portrays images of Christ, Mary and the saints. The artists are known as santeros and santeras. The images they create are called Santo, the Spanish word meaning saint. This beautiful, varied and distinct art form sprang from the 16th century efforts of Spanish priests to introduce Christianity to the Native Peoples. Religious imagery played a crucial role in proclaiming the Good News of Jesus to the indigenous peoples. Since it was difficult if not impossible to import icons and religious carvings from Spain to use in all of their churches and missions the priests and the Native Americans began to carve and paint their own versions of the holy images resulting in what eventually became a unique though varied form of artistic religious expression, known as the Santo tradition.
Pack faith and fun into your family’s vacation
By Madeleine Socia
You don’t have to plan a pricey around-the-world pilgrimage to pack faith as well as fun into your family’s summer vacation plans. Just take the time to include a few delightful detours into your Great Lakes area itinerary.
Saintly Site-Seeing in Detroit
Heading to Detroit to take in a Tiger game? Schedule an extra hour to travel four miles northeast of Comerica Park and visit the Solanus Casey Center which celebrates the life of the monk who may become North America’s first male saint, the Venerable Solanus Casey.
The Center is adjacent to the Capuchin Franciscan Friars’ St. Bonaventure Monastery. The Capuchins have been ministering to the needs of Detroit’s poor since 1883. Their soup kitchen currently serves more than 2,000 meals per day.
One of 16 children of Irish immigrant parents, Bernard Francis Casey was born in 1870 on a farm in Wisconsin. After a series of odd jobs, he joined the Capuchins, but struggled with his studies at the seminary where classes were taught in German. He was ordained in 1904 and received the religious name Solanus. Because of his poor academic performance, he was ordained a “sacerdotus simplex” which prevented him from hearing confessions and preaching doctrinal sermons.
Fr. Solanus came to Detroit in 1924 and was relegated to the lowly position of porter. Yet over the next 20 years, he opened the door, and his extraordinary faith, to visitors from every walk of life. Many of those he counseled made amazing claims of healings as a result of his prayers. These seemingly miraculous occurrences continued, through his intersession, long after his death in 1957.
A cause for sainthood was launched in 1982 and continues to this day. Pope Paul II declared him worthy of veneration in 1995.
Call ahead to arrange for a guided tour of the Center, which includes a video about Fr. Solanus, a chance to explore life-size sculptures depicting the Beatitudes and an opportunity to say a prayer, or leave an intention, at the crypt of Fr. Solanus. The tour is free, but voluntary donations to the Fr. Solanus Guild which operates the Center are accepted. For more information, click on www.solanuscenter.org or call (313) 579-2100.
Devine Destination in St. John, Indiana
Just over an hour southwest of New Buffalo’s beaches and the big bargains of Michigan City’s Lighthouse Place Outlet Mall, you can walk the Way of the Cross at the Shrine of Christ’s Passion in St. John, Indiana — From the Last Supper to the Garden of Gethsemane, the Gospel comes to life along a winding garden path featuring 40 bronze sculptures by noted Texas artist Mickey Wells. Each tableau features narration and prayers voiced by famed broadcaster Bill Kurtis along with contemplative musical selections.
A volunteer staff is available to assist with tours and guide you through the visitor’s center and religious goods store. Parking is free but voluntary donations are accepted. For more information, click on www.shrineofchristspassion.org or call (219) 322-7000.
Holy Hospitality in Chicago
Why spend your next Windy City weekend at an expensive hotel when the whole family can enjoy a peaceful stay at the award-winning Benedictine Bed and Breakfast, adjacent to Chicago’s Monastery of the Holy Cross
Nestled just south of the Loop in Chicago’s multi-ethnic Bridgeport neighborhood, this cozy B&B is just a short drive from the city’s famed museums, the shops on Michigan Avenue, the kid friendly attractions of Navy Pier and games at Comiskey Park.
Those seeking prayerful pastimes can check the Monastery’s Mass schedule in each room or cab it to area shrines dedicated to St. Jude, St. Francis Xavier Cabrini or Our Lady of Pompeii.
Guests can settle into the two-bedroom Garden House, featuring a fridge stocked with everything needed to make a scrumptious self-serve breakfast.
Larger families may want to book the three-bedroom Loft Apartment, which comes with a heavenly breakfast featuring pancakes, French toast, Eggs Benedict and more, prepared by the monks each morning. Parents will appreciate the fact that kids under age 18 stay free and there is a park, complete with a playground, right across the street. Reservations can be made by clicking www.chicagomonk.org, or calling 1-888-539-4261.
Playing and Praying together at Lake Delton, Wisconsin
Spend the Labor Day weekend less than a half-hour southwest of the Wisconsin Dells in Lake Delton at Camp Gray — a place where families can spend the holiday playing and praying together. Camp Gray, owned by the Catholic Diocese of Madison, Wisconsin, refreshes the mind, body and spirit.
From Saturday through Monday, parents and children can indulge in hours of arts and crafts, archery, mountain biking, rock climbing, horseback riding, fishing and more. Evenings begin with the celebration of Holy Mass and conclude with s’mores around the campfire.
Reasonable rates make this destination a real miracle for moms and dads on a tight budget. The maximum charge for families who opt to bunk in the St. Vincent’s Retreat Center is $325. Folks who prefer cabins, tents or RVs pay just $276. This includes the cost of all meals and most recreational programs. For reservations, go to www.campgray.com or call 1-800-711-4729.
Renewal program ignites faith for participants at St. Mary, Marshall
By Vicki Cessna
After countless endorsements of a renewal program from in-laws, Brendan McCarthy just had to find out for himself what the fuss was all about. McCarthy, a St. Mary’s parishioner in Marshall, along with his wife, decided to explore the national program Christ Renews His Parish (CRHP).
“My wife’s sister and her husband told us over and over again about CRHP,” remembers McCarthy. “We kept thinking we’re letting our kids down and our generation down if we don’t do something for adults and their faith.”
After attending the CRHP weekend experience in a parish in the Lansing diocese McCarthy was even more convinced he needed to bring the program to St. Mary’s.
Christ Renews His Parish is a national program with the goal of spiritual renewal with parishioners that turns into parish renewal. The program includes an initial weekend where participants spend time reflecting on their own faith journey. After that participants go into formation and prepare the next weekend experience — and the cycle continues.
According to Bob Edwards, who has helped shepherd the program nationally out of an office in Cleveland, “In four decades of parish ministry, we have never marketed or advertised Christ Renews His Parish. We have never been financially supported by a parish, a diocese or a publishing house.”
In 2009 more than 50 parishes across the country conducted its first CRHP program and to date more than 1,100 parishes representing 35 states and four countries have begun the experience.
At St. Mary’s approximately 55 male parishioners and 85 female parishioners have embarked on a CRHP weekend which includes opportunity for prayer and reflection along with sacramental opportunities such as Mass and Reconcilation. The weekends are gender-specific and participants sleep on cots in the gym.
Since the parish begun the CRHP program McCarthy believes it’s helped increase the level of participation in other parish activities. “CRHP participants seem to be more involved in the parish,” he notes. Of course one can’t ignore the tremendous personal benefit.
“It’s purposely not called a ‘retreat’ explains McCarthy. “The weekend is only one part of the renewal process. The time afterwards allows people to truly witness how God is at work in your life.” While initially a bit hesitant to take on another project, Fr. Stephen Naas, pastor, now extols the benefits of CRHP and admits the lay person-driven program is quite manageable.
"One of the great strengths of CRHP is that it has given people an ability to connect on more than a surface level. In other words, a lot more people know a lot more people a whole lot more deeply.”
In order for Fr. Naas to be devoted to the weekend, another priest is brought in to say Mass and help with Reconciliation during the weekends which are typically offered twice a year for both men and women participants.
Members of St. Mary’s are excited to help other parishes begin the CRHP renewal program and will come to a parish to give the first weekend experience. At the last weekends held this past May participants from two local Kalamazoo parishes attended with an eye for bringing the program to their parish.
Bridges Mental Health Counseling helps those struggling improve their lives
By Susan Baker
What exactly is mental health therapy and how can it help people? Does it mean you are “crazy” if you go to a therapist? Of course not, yet some people still don’t fully understand it or have outdated ideas about exactly what it is. In previous generations, people didn’t know as much about the mind-body connection as we do now and people were left on their own to struggle with their problems. Therapy was available only for those with serious mental health problems, but that is no longer the case.
Mental health therapy is helpful for people of all ages who are struggling with all sorts of issues, such as stress management, substance abuse, addictions, family, marital or parenting problems, depression, or coping with trauma or the loss of a loved one. The challenging economic climate in our area has resulted in many more people seeking help.
Professional counselors help people of all ages feel supported, sort out their feelings, find solutions, develop coping skills and generally feel better about themselves.
Sometimes, deciding to seek professional help can be hard. Most people never question the need to seek medical help for a physical disease or sickness, yet mental health issues sometimes go untreated.
Yet there is no need to suffer in silence or alone. Help is available! Psychotherapists are professionally trained to help people identify their true feelings, overcome difficulties, develop or tap into inner strengths and make positive changes in thought patterns and behaviors.
Don’t settle for living at less than your potential. Help and support is there when you — or a loved one — need it. Live life to the maximum. Our experienced staff includes Master’s level therapists and we accept most insurances and offer flexible fees. Daytime and evening appointments are available.
Call 269-381-9800 for a confidential assessment and appointment.
Clergy Assignments Announced
Bishop Paul J. Bradley has announced the following clergy assignments for the Diocese of Kalamazoo which become effective July 12th unless noted otherwise.
More than 2.5 million pledged for Bishop’s Annual Appeal
Parishioners across the nine-county region of the diocese have responded generously to the 2010 Bishop’s Annual Appeal with more than $2.5 million pledged to date.
At press time, sixteen parishes have already met and surpassed their parish goals including: St. Augustine Cathedral Parish, Kalamazoo; SS John & Bernard Parish, Benton Harbor; Our Lady of the Lake Parish, Edwardsburg; St. Ambrose Parish, Delton; Our Lady of Great Oak Parish, Lacey; St. Edward Parish, Mendon; St. Ambrose Parish, Parchment; Immaculate Conception Parish, Three Rivers; St. Clare Parish, Centreville; St. Jude Parish, Gobles; St. Martin Parish, Vicksburg; St. Mark Parish, Niles; St. Joseph Parish, Kalamazoo; St. Rose of Lima Parish, Hastings; St. Margaret Mary, Marcellus; and St. Mary Parish, Niles.
Diocese moves ahead with Plans for revised Roman Missal
By David Reilly, Director of the Office of Worship
Recently the Holy See has given approval for the English translation of the Third Edition of the Roman Missal for use throughout the United States. Currently the Missal is undergoing final editing in Rome. Once the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops receives the final text from the Vatican they will begin to work with the publishers to prepare the Missal for publication.
Since the Missal contains such a vast array of texts, the publication process is expected to take up to one year. The exact time for implementation has yet to be determined by the U.S. Bishops although it is anticipated to be Advent of 2011. Use of the prayers of the Missal at Mass is prohibited until the approved date.
In order to begin preparations to implement the Roman Missal Bishop Paul J. Bradley convened a group of leaders, the Roman Missal Planning Team, last month to begin the process in earnest. These leaders represent the various ministries which serve our Church throughout the Diocese of Kalamazoo.
The Roman Missal Planning Team will develop an overall strategy for the implementation of the Third Edition of the Roman Missal, identify goals and establish the 18 month time line to prepare for implementation. The work of the Planning Team will then be handed over to a different group of leaders, the Implementation Team, which will assist the priests and parish leaders with the process for implementation over the next 18 months. For more information about the Roman Missal project visit the website of the US Bishops at www.usccb.org/romanmissal or the Federation of Diocesan Liturgical Commissions at www.fdlc.org or call the Diocesan Office of Christian Worship at 269-903-0193.
The Assumption of Mary celebrated August 15
By Samantha Komasara
Many of us work hard to honor our mothers on special occasions. The Church is no different. In fact, she honors the Holiest of Mothers throughout the liturgical seasons. Many of the feast days mark important events in the life of the Virgin Mary. A good number of these can be traced back to the root of scripture, while others have been handed down to us solely by apostolic tradition. The Assumption of Mary, August 15th, is one such day. There really is no factual evidence regarding the date or manner of her Assumption. However, early saints such as St. Andrew of Crete, St. John Damascene, and St. Gregory of Tours have included it in their sermons. Just as a family’s history is passed through the generations, so our Church passes down the story of Mary.
The fourth Glorious Mystery of the rosary is an example of this, telling the story of the Assumption, but leaving the details to our imagination. The Catechism of the Catholic Church, however, sums up the event more definitively in paragraph 966. “Finally, the Immaculate Virgin, preserved free from all stain of original sin, when the course of her earthly life was finished, was taken up body and soul into heavenly glory, and exalted by the Lord as Queen over all things, so that she might be the more fully conformed to her son, the Lord of Lords, and conqueror of sin and death.” Through the miracle of the Assumption, Jesus honored his mother profoundly; and in the year 1950, the Church did too. At this time, the Assumption was declared a dogma of the Church, which is an essential belief of our faith. However, the feast of the Assumption has been celebrated as early as the seventh century.
All throughout the life of Jesus, Mary shared in his joys and sufferings. When he was in agony, so was she; when he died, a part of Mary died along with him. The assumption of Mary is her sharing in His Divine Resurrection. In a similar way, we as Christians are called to participate in the life, death, and resurrection of our Savior. The feast of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin helps us to enter into this mystery more fully.
Diocese raises more than $40,000 for Operation Rice Bowl
Thank you to all the generous parishioners who participated in Operation Rice Bowl (ORB) this year. The 2010 ORB total from the 55 participating parishes was $40,400. Catholic Relief Services (CRS) received $30,300 (75%) from ORB for development projects overseas. The Diocese received $10,100 (25%) from ORB for local projects to assist the poor in the Diocese such as the Catholic Community and the Food Bank of South Central Michigan.