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January 2009
A very interesting January
The week of January 8-25 is shaping up to be an interesting
one. Those dates mark the annual Week of Prayer for Christian
Unity, a period of eight days during which Christians throughout
the world are asked to pray for the grace of unity in Christ The
eight-day period concludes with the Feast of the Conversion of
Saint Paul, who gave himself to the mission of preaching the Gospel
to the Gentiles and who worked very hard to bring Jew and Gentile
together in Christ. The Week of Prayer for Christian Unity has
been observed for over 100 years. The theme this year is, 'That
They May Become One in Your Hand." Our fervent prayer is
that the hand of Christ may guide us all in the ways of peace
and unity.
Monday, January 19, marks the observance of Martin Luther King
Day, a special day of remembrance for a man and a movement which
have profoundly affected our country. Having prayed for unity
among Christians, we also pray for unity among Americans of all
races. The themes of unity, peace and brotherhood ring out once
again.
Large crowds are expected in Washington, D.C. on Tuesday, January 20, for the inauguration of the 44th President of the United States, Barack Obama. Every presidential inauguration is an historic occasion, but this one has the special note of being the inauguration of the first African-American President of the United States. Again, the themes of unity and peace are deep within our hearts. Mr. Obama desires those noble goals as well. Although there is always cause for hope, I must confess that I have a fear that Mr. Obama will be expected to cure every ill both here and abroad within the first 100 days. The expectations are far too high, but much prayer is needed to the One who can heal all ills. Prayers for Mr. Obama is very much in order.
I can hardly imagine the commotion this week in our nation's capital. Immediately after the observance of Martin Luther King Day and the inauguration of President Obama, tens of thousands of people will participate in the annual March for Life. Thursday, January 22, marks the 36th Anniversary ofthe Roe vs. Wade decision ofthe Supreme Court, by which abortion became legal throughout the United Sates. A large segment of the American population has never been comfortable with this decision. Indeed, it seems that this segment is growing and, in some polls, has become a majority. The annual March for life is an opportunity for people to participate in the democratic process by expressing their views that our legal system should not promote or condone the destruction of innocent human life in the womb. On the evening of January 21, a Prayer Vigil for Life will be held at the Basilica ofthe Shrine of the Immaculate Conception on the campus of the Catholic University of America in Washington. His Emminence, Cardinal Justin Rigali, Archbishop of Philadelphia and Chairman of the Pro Life Committee of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, will celebrate the opening Mass. All during the night, there will be holy hours leading up to the next day's March for Life. One encouraging feature of the prayer vigil is the participation of young people, including seminarians. Young people bring energy and commitment to the cause, giving new life to a movement that has had its ups and downs over the past 36 years.
Within the Diocese of Lafayette, there will be pro life marches and rallies in various places. For information, one may contact our Diocesan Office of Pro-Life Activities, 337-261-5607 or 337-261-5598.
The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops is sponsoring a "Fight FOCA Postcard Campaign" which will begin shortly. The Freedom of Choice Act is a bill which has been introduced in previous sessions of Congress. It would deprive the American people in all 50 states of the freedom they now have to enact modest restraints and regulations on the abortion industry FOCA would coerce all Americans into subsidizing and promoting abortion with their tax dollars and it would counteract any and all sincere efforts by government to reduce abortions in our country. For the first time abortion on demand would be a national entitlement that government must condone and promote in all public programs affecting pregnant women. The Act has been called the most radical abortion legislation in U.S. history. I encourage all parishioners in the Diocese of Lafayette to participate in the postcard campaign and to petition their elected U.S. senators and representatives to oppose unequivocally the Freedom of Choice Act if it comes before Congress.
The Bishops and many others are very concerned at this time because of Mr. Obama's voting record on pro-life issues and because of statements he made during the campaign, especially those in support of the Freedom of Choice Act. If it is introduced into Congress and promoted by the Obama administration, the unity Mr. Obama desires so deeply will be dealt a severe blow and progress on other fronts such as the economy and world health care will be hampered.
Respect for the dignity of human life is a value that lies
deep within the American people. It must be recognized in our
laws as well.
Keeping a holy Lent
Lent this year begins on February 25 (Ash Wednesday). According
to the Catechism of the Catholic Church, Lent is "the Liturgical
season of 40 days which begins with Ash Wednesday and ends with
the celebration of the Paschal Mystery (Easter Triduurn). Lent
is the primary penitential season in the Church's Liturgical year
reflecting the 40 days Jesus spent in the desert in fasting and
prayer."
The first thing to note is that Lent is a liturgical season. The Sacred Liturgy is the highest expression of the Church's life. The daily living out of the Gospel draws its power from the Sacred Liturgy and is offered to God through the Liturgy. It is unfortunate that in our busy world today many Catholics are somewhat estranged from the Sacred Liturgy.
The reference to ashes reminds us that Lent is a season of repentance for sins. In today's world some people feel that the notion of sin is old-fashioned and negative. They feel that the Church should not give emphasis to the idea of sin. In a sense, they are right. In fact, the Church gives more emphasis to forgiveness and redemption than to sin. However, the Church does not ignore the reality of sin. Those who do are only fooling themselves. Dr. Karl Menninger, the famous psychiatrist, once wrote that unresolved guilt is one of the principal causes of neurosis. Sin is present in the lives of all of us and when we ignore it, we ignore a significant aspect of our wounded nature. Thus, the season of Lent helps us to practice truth and honesty. It is a season during which we prepare for the celebration of the Paschal Mystery, the resurrection of the Lord.
The definition in the Catechism refers to the 40 days Jesus spent in the desert in fasting and prayer. In the Gospel reading for Ash Wednesday (Matthew 6) Jesus mentions three penitential works: fasting, prayer and almsgiving. These three penitential works can form a framework for our observance of Lent.
• Prayer. Lent can be a time for the individual to pray
more or to pray better or to do both. Many Catholics take on the
penance of attending daily Mass, a practice that should be encouraged.
• Fasting. The Church's rules offast and abstinence are minimal.
Individuals who are healthy may decide to take on more strenuous
practices. One might also ask the question: "From what else
shall I fast?" This is the idea of giving up something for
Lent. For example, one might attempt to restore balance in life
by watching less television or spending less time online. One
might spend more time with one's family, or in various types of
vol unteer activities.
• Almsgiving. This means giving money for the poor. Our parish
churches provide opportunities during Lent for donations to the
poor both in the United States and throughoutthe world. I think
in particu¬lar of the collection for Black and Indian Missions
(March I), for the Church in Eastern Europe and Africa (March
8), and for Catholic Relief Services (March 22). We should give
generously according to our means. There are many charities, including
local ones, which are worthy of our donations.
And finally, in the Catechism of the Catholic Church we read,
"Jesus' call to conversion and penance, like that of the
prophets before him, does not aim first at outward works, 'sackcloth
and ashes,' fasting and mortification, but at the conversion of
the heart, interior conversion. Without this, such penances remain
sterile and false; however, interior conversion urges expression
in visible signs, gestures and works of penance." (#1430)
When imposing ashes upon the faithful, the minister uses one of
two formulas. He says, "Remember, man, you are dust and to
dust you will return," or "Tum way from sin and be faithful
to the Gospel." Either formula sets the tone for a fruitful
Lenten season.
March 2009
Interior conversion
Last month in preparation for the season of Lent, I wrote about
the penitential works of prayer, fasting and almsgiving. I also
quoted an important paragraph from the Catechism of the Catholic
Church: “Jesus' call to conversion and penance, like that
of the prophets before him, does not aim first at outward works,
'sackcloth and ashes,' fasting and mortification, but at the conversion
of the heart, interior conversion. Without this, such penances
remain sterile and false; however, interior conversion urges expression
in visible signs, gestures and works of penance.” (#1430)
Who is in need of interior conversion? There is a simplistic,
but instructive Chinese proverb which says: “Unless we change
our direction, we are likely to end up where we are headed.”
The appropriate question in the season of Lent is “Where
am I headed?” The calling for every Catholic is to conform
his life to that of the Lord Jesus. It is likely that very few
readers of this column need a 180 degree change in direction.
I assume that everyone is headed more or less in the right direction.
But, I firmly believe that everyone needs a course correction,
even if only by a few degrees. Unless one keeps every commandment,
loves God and neighbor perfectly at all times and practices every
virtue in a saintly manner, a course correction is needed. All
boaters know how difficult it is to maintain a true and unerring
course. Crosswinds, crosscurrents and heavy seas are always pushing
the boat off course. The captain must be vigilant and constantly
correcting the heading in order to reach the intended destination.
Crosswinds can be very powerful. Switching images from boats to
cars, I have a friend who was driving west on I-10 across the
open prairie near Jennings. A cold front was passing and a fierce
north wind was blowing. My friend was driving a Volkswagen bug
of the 1960's variety. After one particularly strong gust of wind,
he found himself in the median, blown off course by a crosswind.
Life is full of crosswinds. To live successfully means constant
course correction.
I think sometimes of the current economic crisis. How did we get
into such a mess? I suppose there are many reasons. But most people
seem to agree that there were personal moral failures at the root.
We wonder how such intelligent and apparently good people could
have done such things. Perhaps those of us who are not involved
do not know the moral crosswinds faced by businessmen and financial
managers. The constant pressure to produce not just reasonable
profit, but big results is a moral crosswind. The pressure to
beat the competition, to best the previous quarter, and to exceed
Wall Street expectations is a moral crosswind. Personal greed
is a moral crosswind. Unfortunately course corrections were not
made by the captains, and they ended up where they were headed.
Leo Tolstoy once wrote, “Many people plan to change the world;
very few plan to change themselves.” Have a blessed Lent
everyone.
Year of the Priest
On March 16, Pope Benedict XVI delivered an address to the Congregation
for the Clergy on the subject of "the missionay identity
of priests." During the talk, the Holy Father announced a
"Year for Priests" beginnirg on June 19, 2009 and concluding
on that date in 2010. A few weeks later, the Congregation for
the Clergy wrote a letter to bishops elaborating on the Holy Father's
wishes. The letter spoke of "a year of the priest",
so I presume that will be the title used henceforth The theme
selected by the Holy Father is, "The faithfulness of Christ,
the faithfulness of the priest."
The first question that comes to my mind is, "What is the Holy Father's purpose in calling for a Year of the Priest?" In his address to the Congregation he spoke of the "indispensable struggle for moral perfection which must dwell in every truly priestly heart." He said that he decided to call a special year, "in order to favor the tendency of priests toward spiritual perfection upon which the effectiveness of their ministry principally depends." It seems that the Holy Father is calling on priests to devote themselves to the pursuit of a life of prayer and virtue. In this regard, he recalled the fact that the Year 2009 marks the 150th anniversary of the death of Saint John Vianney, whom he referred to as the "saintly Cure of Ars" and "a true example of a pastor at the service of Christ's' flock." It should be noted that Saint John Vianney is the secondary patron of the Diocese of Lafayette.
The Congregation for the Clergy also called for priests "to renew their consciousness oftheir own identity and, as a consequence, to reinvigorate the missionary zeal that flows from the divine intimacy, from their' staying' with the Lord." The dimension of personal prayer seems to be a constant theme with Pope Benedict. During his pastoral visit to the United States one year ago, he spoke on three occasims of the importance of one's personal relationship with Jesus Christ. For example, in his address to tle Bishops of the United States, he said, "The goal of all our pastoral and catechetical work, the object of our preaching and the focus of our sacramental ministry should be to help people establish and nurture that living relationship with Christ Jesus, our hope."
A third purpose mentioned by the Congregation is the promotion of vocations to the ordained ministry, saying that the Church should give special attention to this "indispenseble priority." Thus, during the Year of the Priest, priests will be encouraged to pursue spiritual perfection and to grow in awareness of their priestly identity by strengthenirg their prayer lives and deepenirg their intimacy with the Lord. The whole Church will be asled to appreciate the role of the ministerial priesthood in the Church and to pray for priests and for an increase of vocatims to tle ordained ministry.
In the Diocese of Lafayette, a committee of the Council of Priests will be formed to plan for our observance of the Year of the Priest. In past discussions, the Council has advised me that priests in the Diocese of Lafayette experience great support and gratitude from the laity. It seems to me that the Holy Father has much more in mind than praise and honor for priests. Priests are not seeking more glory. It will be a year for priests to grow in their spirinality and in awareness of their identity. I suspect that the Pope has much more that he wants to say on this subject. If the past can predict the future, his message will be both affirming and challenging.
One might wonder why the Holy Father is calling for a Year of the Priest at this time. After all, spiritual renewal is always needed-and not only for priests. I suspect that he is concerned about certain groups within the Church who question the nature of Holy Orders and the ministerial priesthood. Is the ministerial priesthood essentially different from the priest-hood of the faithful, which is conferred on all the baptized? The Church says it is.
According to the Catechism of the Catholic Church: "The ministerial or hierarchical priesthood of bishops and priests, and the common priesthood of all the faithful participate each in its own proper way in the one priesthood of Christ. While being ordered to one to another, they differ essentially." (#1547) It is possible that the Holy Father desires an opportunity to explain this teachirg and to call everyone's attention to the ministerial priesthood. He may wish to elabo-rate on its nature and its mission. Look for more from him during the year.
One line from the Congregation's letter caused me to chuckle. It said, "It will, therefore, be a year during which we can discover anew the beauty and importance of the priesthood and of each priest." Perhaps the Congregation was referring to interior beauty.
Perhaps everyone is tired of reading about the controversy surrounding the graduation ceremony at the University of Notre Dame. Statements of support and cries of criticism have been numerous and strong. The issue of abortion continues to provoke strong reactions from many quarters, even 36 years after the Roe v. Wade decision. Even though media attention has passed, I believe it is important to reflect on the meaning of the whole event. Similar events are bound to occur in the future.
It seems that the immediate question was not the morality of abortion or even its legality. Of course, these issues are at the basis of the whole debate. Without them, there would have been no debate. But the immediate question was the propriety of a Catholic institution conferring an honor on a politician or public personality who supports abortion rights. The decision of Notre Dame to invite President Barack Obama to deliver the graduation address and to receive an honorary degree was the cause of the controversy. It was a debate about a prudential judgment made by the University. I believe the University made the wrong judgment. I believe it missed an opportunity to provide witness to the sanctity of human life as understood by the Catholic Church and as proclaimed by the University itself. The world needs such witness today. I support the decision of Bishop John D’Arcy, Bishop of South Bend, to give witness to the sanctity of human life by not attending. I applaud Dr. Mary Ann Glendon who was chosen to receive the prestigious Laetare Medal, but declined the honor in order to give witness to the sanctity of human life.
President Obama addressed the controversy directly and said that people who differ in their beliefs should still engage one another in mutual respect. He said that in the abortion debate, the two sides should seek common ground. I agree with his remarks. Mutual respect is important. With regard to common ground, I should note that it does not mean compromise. Catholics do share common ground with the President on many issues, especially in the area of social justice. On the issue of abortion, Mr. Obama said that both sides should “work together to reduce the number of women seeking abortions…” Both sides will probably agree on that goal, but there will be differences on the means of achieving it.
I hope the President continues to reflect on this goal of reducing the number of women seeking abortions. Why does he wish to pursue this goal? Is it possible that all human beings have a voice of conscience which judges abortion to be an unspeakable crime? Abortion has been legal in the United States for 36 years, but people are still uneasy about it. Reducing the number of abortions is a worthy goal, but it is inadequate. When Mr. Obama looked at the torture of prisoners, he did not say that the number of tortured prisoners should be reduced. He moved to eliminate it all together. One could hope for the same attitude toward abortion.
Another thought concerns the issue of science. Mr. Obama has said that science should be returned to its rightful place in public policy decisions. He was talking about climate change accusing the previous administration of ignoring the conclusions of scientists. One might hope that scientists would be consulted on the nature of human embryos. Scientists will say that it is a being, which simply means something that is. They will say that it is human, citing the evidence from genes and chromosomes. They will say that it is living, since given the proper conditions, it will grow and develop. Could we not say that science compels us to call the embryo a living human being? Could we not then go beyond science and conclude that innocent human beings deserve the protection of law in the United States?
Despite all that has taken place, I believe that we should remember that the University of Notre Dame is a Catholic institution and that it provides a great service to the Church and to society. It continues to deserve our respect and support, even if we differ on the prudential judgment made with regard to the graduation.
In businesses around Acadiana, one sees small signs which read, “Ici on parle français” (Here we speak French). Perhaps in all of our churches, homes, schools, and institutions, we need similar signs which read, “Ici on ne tue pas les enfants” (Here we do not kill our children).
Numbers indicate an active, vibrant Church
The Catholic Church can never be fully understood from the point
of view of sociology, but that discipline does provide some interesting
information. One thing that sociologists like to do is gather
statistics. For example, the latest data show that there are 68.1
million Catholics in the United States, comprising 22 percent
of the population. In the Diocese of Lafayette, there are 317,000
Catholics, comprising 56 percent of the populaion.
In reviewing the data for 2005, I found it interesting that there are 14,574 permanent deacons in the United States. Approximately 44 percent of permanent deacons in the world are in the United States.
Ninety-one new church parishes were established in 2008, giving a total 18,647 parishes. There are 234 Catholic colleges and universities in the United States, with 795,000 students. There are no Catholic colleges in the Diocese of Lafayette, but extension courses are available.
There are 7,474 Catholic schools in the United States, with 2.3 million students. In the Diocese of Lafayette there are 42 Catholic schools with 15,359 students. In addition, there are 23,000 students enrolled in parish religious education programs, giving a total of 38,000 students receiving Catholc religious instruction.
In the United States, there were 887,145 infant Baptisms, 42,629 adult Baptisms and 81,775 received into full communion with the Catholic Church. In the Diocese of Lafayette, there were 4,424 infant Baptisms, 251 adult Baptisms and 365 baptized adults joining the Catholic Church.
Numbers do not tell the whole story, but I believe they are indicative of an active, vibrant Church seeking to fulfill the Lord's command to evangelize all people. Behind all of the numbers lie the strong faith and untiring efforts of clergy and laity who are engaged in the great work of evangelization. Much has been done and the Lord has blessed those efforts. Much remains to be done and the Church is committed to the task.
Several years ago, the bishops of the United States established five priorities for pastoral activity. They tried to determine the greatest needs and to focus on these areas. Under the leadership of the bishops, the Church will seek to: Live and celebrate the cultural diversity ofthe Church; strengthen marriage as a sacrament and as an institution, and nourish family life; deepen personal faith in Jesus Christ and strengthen sacramental practice; strengthen our commitment and enhance our efforts on behalf of the Life and dignity of the human person; and promote vocations to the priesthood and consecrated life.
It is interesting to note that the Diocese of Lafayette has
one or more offices dedicated to each of the priorities. Next
year the numbers may or may not improve, but it is certain that
the work of evangelization in all of its forms will continue.
May the Lord prosper the work of our hands.
Two significant August events
In the month of August, I will be traveling to New Orleans for
two significant events. On August 2 the Knights of Peter Claver
are celebrating their 100th An-niversary. I will attend the Anniversary
Mass at the New Orleans Convention Center. The Knights of Peter
Claver is the largest Lay organization for African-American Catholics
in the United States. The fraternal order was established by four
Josephite priests and three laymen in Mobile, Alabama. The significance
of this Catholic organization was expressed by Bishop Joseph Perry,
Chaplain, who said: 'Their importance stems from their origin
in a different social climate where African-Americans were not
generally accepted in various clubs, organizations or lodges of
that nature."
Many of the 19,000 members ofthe Knights of Peter Claver and its various divisions are from the Diocese of Lafayette. The Ladies Auxiliary, established in 1926, is headed by Supreme Lady Geralyn Shelvin of Lafayette. I joined the Knights of Peter Claver a few years ago and have participated in state conventions when they were held in Lafayette. Like the Knights of Columbus, the Knights of Peter Claver is an organization that supports Catholic identity, that engages in charitable works, and that gives members an opportunity for mutual support in living the Catholic faith.
The goals of the organization are expressed in the following declaration:
"For the purpose of rendering service to God and His Holy Church; of recognizing the Fatherhood of God and the brotherhood of man; particularly as these attributes are defined in the spiritual and corporal works of mercy; of assisting the hierarchy and the clergy of the Roman Catholic Church in the apostolic work to which they have dedicated their I ives by planning, promoting, sponsoring and executing commendable works of Catholic Action wherever and whenever possible; for giving edification by good example in deportment; in word and in deed, especially to the youth who emulate those virtuous deeds, of rendering mutual aid and assistance to its sick and disabled members; of promoting such social and intellectual association among its members as shall be desired and proper, the Order of the Knights of St. Peter Claver, established 1909, was called into being, and its organization effected."
On August 20, I will attend the Installation of the Most Reverend Gregory Aymond, 14th Archbishop of New Orleans, at the Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis. I presume that the three retired Archbishops of New Orleans will be in attendance as well. They are: Archbishop Philip Hannan (1965- I 988), Archbishop Francis Schulte (1988-2002) and Archbishop Alfred Hughes (2002-2009). New Orleans has been a diocese since 1793 and Archbishop Aymond is the first native son to be appointed its leader. Archbishop Aymond served as Rector of Notre Dame Semirary from 1986 to 2000. He is well known to many priests in the Diocese of Lafayette who studied Theology at Notre Dame Seminary.
I had the opportunry to work with Archbishop Aymond after he
was named Auxiliary Bishop of New Orleans in 1997. I found him
to be an intelligent and capable leader. I wish him well as he
faces serious challenges in New Orleans, which is still in the
process rebuilding after the devastation of Hurricane Katrina
I am confident that he has the personal qualities to lead the
Archdiocese well. At age 59, he should be the shepherd of the
Archdiocese for many years. May the Lord prosper the work of his
hands.
Healthcare Reform
As Congress reconvenes, it seems that the major topic of debate
is healthcare reform. This is an issue which has concerned the
National Conference of Catholic Bishops for many years. For the
bishops, the primary issue is care for the poor. The dignity of
the human person is a recurring theme in Catholic social teaching.
On July 17, Bishop William Murphy, Chairman of the Committee on
Domestic Justice and Human Development, sent a letter to Congress.
His main point concerned the availability of healthcare for all
citizens.
A second issue for bishops is respect for the life of the unborn. The Church opposes any policy or program that will increase the practice of abortion. The bishops will not support any bill which increases federal funding for abortions, provides mandatory insurance coverage for abortions, or requires healthcare workers to participate in abortions.
One concern is the question of how universal healthcare will be financed. I believe that the Church's role in the debate is to articulate principles and to speak in favor of the poor. I realize that the difficulty is often in the details and paying for universal healthcare is a difficult issue. Bishops normally do not feel competent to write specific bills, explain all the details or even judge the best way to pay for or deliver services. I urge the constructive involvement of all lay persons in the Church, and indeed all citizens, as the country struggles with this long-standing and complex issue of healthcare for all. I hope that they will speak up for the needs of the poor and for the protection of human life from the moment of conception.
Bishop's Services Appeal
Usually at this time of year parishioners begin hearing about
the annual Bishop's Services Appeal. After our experience with
hurricanes in August and September of 2005 and 2008, a decision
was made to start the BSA in October rather than September. Bulletin
announcements in parish churches are set to begin on September
27 and letters to parishioners will be sent the following week.
Letters will be sent to 83,000 households.
The Appeal has been conducted for 36 years. In that time, parishioners have provided $41.5 million for Church services. Currently, the Bishop's Services Appeal generates about $2 million each year.
The theme for this year's Appeal is, "It is More Blessed to Give Than to Receive." (Acts 20:35) I truly appreciate everyone's offerings for this Appeal, which is so important for the operations of the Diocese. I know that the economy has affected some of our donors, but I ask everyone to participate and to give according to his means.
Year of the Priest
Last April, Pope Benedict XVI called for a Year for Priests, which began in June of 2009 and will continue through June 2010. He stated that the purpose of the Year is spiritual renewal for priests. In June, the Holy Father wrote a letter to all of the priests in the world. He discussed the life and ministry of Saint John Vianney, the patron of priests. August 4, 2009 marked the 150th Anniversary of the death of Saint John Vianney. In the letter, the Holy Father noted John Vianney's great appreciation for the gift of priesthood and how it is a gift for the individual and for the Church. He also called attention to the saint's works of charity, as well as his habit of enlisting the assistance of lay people in the conduct of his parish ministry. The Holy Father urged all priests to imitate these and other aspects of the life of Saint John Vianney.
In this Year for Priests, the Holy Father asks two things of the laity. He asks for prayer for priests. I have found over the years that there are many lay people in the Diocese who regularly pray for priests. I encourage more people to do so.
The Holy Father also asked for prayer for vocations to the
priesthood and religious life. Again, I have found that many of
the laity of the Diocese of Lafayette pray regularly for religious
vocations. However, I think there is one area in which there could
be some improvement, and that is on parental and family support
for young men and women who are interested in a religious vocation.
It seems that we have many people who would like to see more priests
in the Church and who support religious vocations in general,
but are not quite as supportive when their own children express
a desire to be a priest, a brother or a sister. A survey of the
2009 ordination class in the United States showed that 47 percent
of them encountered some degree of parental opposition to their
vocation, at least in the early stages. Perhaps priests are not
the only ones in need of inner renewal, deeper spirituality and
a clearer focus on the meaning of life in Christ. May God bless
us all.
October 2009
I don't recall the exact history, but in the years following the
Supreme Court decision to legalize abortion (Roe v. Wade 1973),
the American Bishops chose the first Sunday in October as Respect
Life Sunday. As time went on, more and more life issues began
to emerge in the public square. The Bishops' Committee on Pro-Life
Activities began to address issues like euthanasia, physician-assisted
suicide, in vitro fertilization, cloning, capital punishment and
embryonic stem cell research. It was clear that one Sunday was
not enough to address so many issues. The Bishops began to promote
an annual pro-life program with suggested prayers and activities
throughout the year.
In recent years, there has been an effort to regard social justice issues as pro-life issues. What right is more basic than the right to life? What good are other rights without it? Many people who are vocal on the abortion issue are sometimes asked why they are not as vocal in opposition to capital punishment or to the plight of the poor. This sort of conversation has led to a joining of forces since in the eyes of the Church there are many issues concerning respect for human life. The various issues often differ somewhat in Catholic moral teaching. For example, abortion is intrinsically evil, whereas capital punishment can be justified in rare instances.
This issue is presented more fully in the document from the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops entitled, Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship. I quote,
“Two temptations in public life can distort the Church's defense of human life and dignity:
“The first is a moral equivalence that makes no ethical distinctions between different kinds of issues involving human life and dignity the direct and intentional destruction of innocent human life from the moment of conception until natural death is always wrong and is not just one issue among many. It must always be opposed.
“The second is the misuse of these necessary moral distinctions as a way of diminishing or ignoring other serious threats to human life and dignity. Racism and other unjust discrimination, the use of the death penalty, resorting to unjust wars, the use of torture, war crimes, the failure to respond to those who are suffering from hunger or a lack of health care, or an unjust immigration policy are all serious moral issues that challenge our consciences and require us to act.”
The enlargement of the pro-life umbrella is a good development as the Church tries to influence her own members and society at large. This year's packet for the Respect Life Program contains informative brochures on human dignity, building a culture of life, infertility, contraception, sexual differences and the defense of marriage, and assisted suicide.
The brochure on infertility caught my eye. It is entitled, Addressing Infertility with Compassion and Clarity, and it is written by Father J. Daniel Mindling, OFC Cap. The author recognizes that in vitro fertilization is opposed by the Church primarily because it involves the destruction of unwanted human embryos. On the other hand, Father Mindling also recommends that those who minister in the name of the Church should recognize the deep desire of married couples to have children. As one critic told him, “You send them away with theology, but the clinic sends them home with a baby.” It is not true of course that all couples bring a baby home from the clinic. Father Mindling recommends care and compassion as Church ministers present moral values as well as moral prohibitions. The brochure is available on line at www.usccb.org. It is well worth reading.
Respect for human life is a thread that runs consistently through
the Church's teaching on many issues, regardless of whether they
carry the label of social justice or pro-life. It is this coherence
and consistency that make the Church's message so important in
working toward the ideal of justice for all.
The month of November begins with the Solemnity of All Saints on November 1 and the Commemoration of the Faithful Departed (All Souls' Day) on November 2. It is a month during which the Church gives special attention to her members who have died. The word saints is simply a translation of the Latin word for holy ones. It is used in several different ways. Sometimes it refers to those who have been canonized by the church; sometimes it refers to all those who are in heaven; and sometimes it refers to all who are baptized—living or deceased. On the Solemnity of All Saints, the Church remembers and honors all those who are in heaven.
On All Souls Day special efforts are made to pray for the souls in purgatory. The Catechism of the Catholic Church defines purgatory as, "A state of final purification after death and before entrance into heaven for those who died in God's friendship, but were only imperfectly purified." (cf. The Glossary) Some Catholics have difficulty accepting the idea of purgatory, but I must confess that it has always made good sense to me. Even good people are guilty of sins and imperfections. Purgatory is not a permanent state, but a period of purification. Everyone who goes to purgatory will one day go to heaven. While All Souls Day may occasion some sadness because we miss those who have died, it is, nonetheless, an expression of our faith in Jesus Christ and our hope for eternal salvation in him.
Many families have the tradition of painting tombs, placing flowers, or otherwise cleaning the area around burial places. It is a beautiful way of honoring the dead and of expressing our faith in the resurrection of the body. Most parishes that have cemeteries celebrate some ceremony of prayer and blessings. The official rituals of the Church call for the blessing of a church cemetery when it is first opened and for blessing a grave, tomb or burial place when it is used. The November ceremonies in the cemeteries are basically a time to pray for the deceased. The Book of Blessings contains a service called, "Order for Visiting a Cemetery on All Souls Day, Memorial Day or on the Anniversary of Death or Burial." This service may be used by private individuals and families. Prayers for the dead are especially appropriate during the month of November.
Elsewhere in this issue, there is an article on cremation and the reverent disposition of the cremated remains. Without repeating everything in the article, the basic ideas are that cremation is allowed, but burial or entombment of the body is preferred; that it is preferable to have the body present for the funeral; and that if for a good reason cremation is chosen, the remains must be buried or entombed in a reverent manner. Many Catholics are not aware of these requirements. Also, some of the regulations are counter-cultural. We hear all the time of people whose cremated remains are scattered abroad somewhere. This is not permitted. Cremated remains are not really ashes, but primarily bone fragments. We would never think of tossing a loved one's bones from an airplane. The Church has always been counter-cultural in one way or another. What is at stake here is belief in the resurrection of the body—not just eternal life in a vague sense, but also actual resurrection of one's body. This belief calls for a sense of reverence for the human body even after death. This is the Catholic way.
In both the funeral rite and the rite for the visitation of
cemeteries we pray:
"Eternal
rest grant unto them, O Lord.
R/. And let the perpetual light shine upon them.
May they rest in peace.
R/. Amen
May their souls and the souls of the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.
R/. Amen."
December 2009
Over the Thanksgiving Holidays, I was pleased to visit
Consolata Nursing Home in New Iberia. Consolata is the only nursing
home owned and operated by the Diocese of Lafayette. It has 98
residents. It has been in operation since February 1960. More
specifically, I went to visit the six priests who are residents
there in one capacity or another. Except for the Jesuits in Grand
Coteau, there is no greater concentration of priests anywhere
in the Diocese. Father Joe Stemmann retired from active status
a few years ago, but not from active ministry. In November 2008,
he became Chaplain at Consolata, replacing Father Raymond Robitaille,
who moved out of the Chaplain's quarters at Consolata, but remains
in residence.
Father Stemmann gathered the priests in his quarters for the visit and provided cake and coffee. Father Robitaille remains sound in mind and body, despite his 90 years of age. Father Wilson Matt and Father George Simon are both retired Diocesan priests in residence at Consolata. At age 91, Father Matt is the third oldest priest in the Diocese. The oldest (94) is Father John Spekschate who lives in his native Holland. The second oldest (91) is Father John DeLeeuw who lives in Lafayette. During the visit, Father Matt displayed his usual interest in current events as well as his wit, charm, strong voice and sense of humor. He knows more about events in the Diocese than most priests and no one can figure out how he does it. Father Simon is quieter than Father Matt, as are most people, but he was active in the conversation.
Father Raymond Jones, SVD, suffered a stroke sometime ago and is a resident at Consolata. Despite some physical impairment, his mind is good. Lastly, Father Allen Breaux, the youngest of the group is recovering from back surgery and should be returning soon to his assignment at Saints Peter and Paul in Scott. It was a wonderful visit and everyone seemed to enjoy the hour we spent together. I know I did. I pray that God may bless these faithful servants who are still serving faithfully. In this Year for Priests, I ask everyone's prayers for our priests, whether active or retired. I can't begin to add up the number of years of priestly ministry given by these six men. I hope that I am as happy as they are when I reach their age.
Speaking of priests and happiness, I just read of a survey conducted by Monsignor Stephen J. Rossetti and reported in his booklet, “Our Journey into Joy.” (2009, Ave Maria Press) He reports that 92.2 percent of respondents said that they were happy as priests. That is a remarkable statistic. Monsignor Rossetti writes, “The grace of God is flowing in and through our priests. Despite the travails of our day, and there are many, the vast majority of our priests are courageously embracing their crosses, living their priestly calling with fidelity, and coming to know the source of true joy.”
I will not have another column before Christmas, so even though we are just beginning the holy season of Advent, I wish everyone a Merry Christmas.
February 2010
February may be the last month of winter, but this year it brings
a bright ray of sunshine as the New Orleans Saints make history
by their first appearance in the Super Bowl. Meanwhile, the annual
observance of Mardi Gras produces a festive atmosphere in South
Louisiana regardless of the outcome of the game.
When the game is done and the parades are over, the season of Lent begins. Ash Wednesday will be observed on February 17 this year. Catholics and many other Christians will present themselves for the imposition of ashes, hearing one of the following admonitions: “Turn away from sin and be faithful to the Gospel” or “Remember man that you are dust and to dust you will return.” Both formulas remind us that faithfulness to Jesus calls for continuing repentance and conversion.
In his Lenten Message for 2010, Pope Benedict XVI writes, “Conversion to Christ, believing in the Gospel ultimately means this: To exit the illusion of self-sufficiency in order to discover and accept one's own need—the need of others and God, the need of his forgiveness and his friendship.” That one sentence contains many seeds for reflection. For example, the Holy Father writes of “the need for his [God's] forgiveness.” Spiritual writers often remind us of God's love for us. They tell us that his love is unconditional, that there are no conditions. He loves us no matter what. The parable of the Prodigal Son is an illustration of God's unconditional love. However, when it comes to God's forgiveness, we cannot say that it is unconditional. There are conditions. God does not offer forgiveness no matter what. When Jesus taught his disciples to pray, he included the plea to the Father: “Forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us.” This thought is strengthened when he adds, “If you forgive others their transgressions, your heavenly Father will forgive you. But if you do not forgive others, neither will your Father forgive your transgressions.” (Matthew 6:14-15)
Conversion to the Gospel is the theme for the Rite of Election, a special ceremony held each year on the First Sunday in Lent. The Rite of Election is a part of the Rite of the Christian Initiation of Adults, a process of instruction and conversion for adults and children of catechetical age who wish to be baptized, or if they are already baptized, to attain full communion in the Catholic Church. For me, this is one of the most inspiring ceremonies of the year. Hundreds of catechumens (those seeking Baptism) and candidates (those seeking to be received into the Church) from throughout the Diocese gather with the Bishop to hear the Church's approval of the progress they have made on the road of conversion. At the Easter Vigil, they will receive the appropriate sacraments—Baptism, Confirmation or Holy Communion.
The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults is a reminder that the primary mission of the Church is to make disciples for Jesus. Generally, we do this well for children whose parents present them for Baptism and catechetical instruction. The challenge today is to invite inactive Catholics and the unchruched into participation in the sacramental life of the Church. A number of our parishes have active programs to conduct door-to-door visitation for the purpose of invitation. Every year pastors assist me in sending letters inviting inactive Catholics to “Come Home for Christmas.” Catholics are becoming more aware of the need for such programs of evangelization. Readers might want to speak to their pastors and offer to participate in a program in their parish.
I pray for a fruitful Lent for everyone who seeks to be faithful
to the Gospel and to realize his need for God's forgiveness.