Catholic san Francisco Northern California’s Weekly Catholic Newspaper
(PHOTOS BY ANGELA BANCHI)
USCCB provides health care reform message to parishes nationwide
Floral arrangements at the “Festival of Flowers” at San Francisco’s Cathedral of St. Mary of the Assumption included this display above the baptistery at the entrance of the cathedral. See story page 6.
WASHINGTON (CNS) – The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops has sent bulletin inserts to almost 19,000 parishes across the country in an effort to urge Catholics to prevent health care reform from being derailed by support for abortion funding. “Health care reform should be about saving lives, not destroying them,” the insert states. It urges readers to contact Senate leaders so they support efforts to “incorporate long-standing policies against abortion funding and in favor of conscience rights” in health reform legislation. “If these serious concerns are not addressed, the final bill should be opposed,” it adds. The insert highlights an amendment sponsored by Rep. Bart Stupak, D-Mich., which “addresses essential pro-life concerns on abortion funding and conscience rights.” “Help ensure that the rule for the bill allows a vote on the amendment,” the insert states. “If these serious concerns are not addressed, the final bill should be opposed.” The insert also directs Catholics to the Web page www.usccb.org/healthcare. Parishes also were receiving suggested pulpit announcements and petitions in support of this effort. Bulletin inserts were distributed to dioceses Oct. 29, the day House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., and other House leaders unveiled an $894 billion health care reform bill called the Affordable Health Care for America Act. The inserts – expected to be placed in parish bulletins in early November – contain information about how HEALTH CARE REFORM MESSAGE, page 11
Vocations focus: St. Raphael Parish event marks ‘Year for Priests’ By Deacon Eugene Smith It’s the “Year for Priests,” called by Pope Benedict XVI from June 19, 2009 to June 19, 2010, and it was celebrated prayerfully and lovingly at St. Raphael Parish October 27. Parishioners Anita and Phil Garcia were so enthused they sent the following e-mail at dawn the next morning. “Congratulations to the Vocations Committee for a most successful celebration last evening”. On Tuesday night, the parish campus was filled with grateful parishioners who came to pray, enjoy a light meal and hear from a panel of St. Raphael priests as well as Father Tom Daly, Director of Vocations for the Archdiocese of San Francisco. The goal for the evening was to recognize priests and to foster the work of vocations to the religious life and the priesthood, said Al Cuthbert, co-chair of the St. Raphael Vocations Committee led by Father Ngoan Van Phan.
Parishioners were challenged to listen to the panel of priests speaking of their call to the priesthood and to pass on what they heard with their families, especially their children and grandchildren. Father Paul Rossi, pastor, shared his thoughts. “I found I had good priestly role models in my life when I was a student here at St. Raphael School,” Father Rossi said. “I think Monsignor McAllister, Father George O’Meara and Father John Petroni along with the Dominican Sisters of San Rafael were good models of faith and service for me. My father also brought me to Mass every Sunday and even when I went on vacation with my maternal grandparents, who were not Catholic, they would always make sure they got me to Mass on Sunday morning.” Father Rossi said, “I see that the only High Priest is Jesus Christ and I share in his priesthood. I feel that priesthood is not primarily a life style or can be reduced ST. RAPHAEL EVENT, page 9
Father Ngoan Van Phan, Precious Blood Father David Matz; St. Raphael pastor, Father Paul Rossi and Father Tom Daly, director of vocations for the Archdiocese of San Francisco.
INSIDE THIS WEEK’S EDITION ‘Voices of Peace’ . . . . . . . . . . 3 Women religious thanked. . . 6 Catholic Charities CYO . . . . 8 ‘God’s Geese’ . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Commentary & letters . 14-15
News in brief Berlin Wall anniversary ~ Pages 4-5 ~ November 6, 2009
Vatican honors Jesuit missonary ~ Pages 12-13 ~
Marin Catholic’s new student center ~ Page 18 ~
ONE DOLLAR
Scripture & reflection. . . . . 16 Books & Datebook . . . . 20-21
www.catholic-sf.org VOLUME 11
•
No. 34
2
Catholic San Francisco
November 6, 2009
On The
Members of the class of 1939 from Mercy High School, Burlingame, clockwise from left, Rita O’Grady O’Connor, Rita Ahern Chaput, Geraldine Barry Seil, and Catherine McGowan Irvina Johnson. The women joined more than 200 sister alumnae at their alma mater’s recent Homecoming celebrations. The day included Mass, coffee with the Sisters of Mercy active and retired, and lunch at Kohl Mansion.
Where You Live By Tom Burke The Knights of Saint Francis, a volunteer organization assisting in the upkeep and preservation of the Porziuncola Chapel at the National Shrine of St. Francis of Assisi, welcomed 250 supporters to a special dinner in September. The evening raised $75,000 toward the group’s efforts, said Angela Alioto, who has been very closely involved in the shrine’s activities since 1998. A very special occasion of the evening, Angela said, was presenting Archbishop George Niederauer with the Knights’ first St. Francis Award. “Archbishop Niederauer is the the Knights of Saint Francis’ spiritual leader and the obvious choice for the Saint Francis award because of his incredible support of the Porziuncola Nuova and the Knights,” Angela said. “I can think of no one more deserving of the Saint Francis Award than our Archbishop.” News anchor, Tom Sinkovitz, served as master of ceremonies. SFFD Chief Joanne Hayes White, and former SFPD Chief Heather Fong co-chaired the event…. The class of ’45 from St. Ignatius High School will holds its annual lunch Nov. 20.Thanks to Jack Campbell of St. Veronica Parish for sending in the info. Jack and his wife, Barbara, celebrated their 58th wedding anniversary Aug. 18. The two met at San Francisco State and married at St. Cecilia’s. Jack, who retired in 1989, taught elementary school for 40 years at SF Unified locations including the Bessie Carmichael school “across from the Hall of Justice,” he told me. “I love Catholic San Francisco,” Jack said, to which we can only reply, “Thank you very much.”… Recently making music at Boeddeker Park – named
St. Stephen Elementary School honored the Sisters of Mercy in September. Mercy Sisters Mary Brian Kelber, left, and Judy Carle, right, here with St. Stephen principal, Sharon McCarthy Allen, were among those in attendance.
LIVING TRUSTS WILLS
PROBATE
MICHAEL T. SWEENEY ATTORNEY AT LAW 782A ULLOA STREET SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94127
(415) 664-8810 www.mtslaw.info FREE INITIAL CONSULTATION
AUFER’S
RELIGIOUS SUPPLIES
for beloved Franciscan Father Alfred Boeddeker founder Mercy charism is still alive and well.”…Junipero Serra High of the St. Anthony Foundation – was the student choir from School recently hosted 20 exchange students from Grenoble, nearby DeMarillac Academy. The event was a “Wonderland France here on a two-week American-experience gathering tour. Block Party” and included a rendition of the Louis Armstrong Lauriane Martinez and Julie Pourroy were among them with contemporary classic, “What a Wonderful World.” The activi- both excited about the visit and looking forward to improving ties are part of a month-long culture and arts celebration in the their English skills. Nate Ginsberg, dad of Serra junior, Jordan, Tenderloin District involving 16 community projects and more was an exchange student in Germany when he was a lad. The than 70 artists, according to Steve Seyfert, Padre pop said having the students meet DeMarillac’s development director. Choir one another was an “invaluable experience” director is Erin Johnston, a Vincentian that will aid in the young men and women’s volunteer at the school….Each year “understanding of the world.” Nate’s son, Mercy High School, Burlingame celJordan, visited Grenoble last year on a ebrates Mercy Week ending with Mercy similar plan. Sites and activities for the Day when Mercy students around the visiting young women included biking world celebrate and honor Catherine across the Golden Gate Bridge, surfing in McAuley, founder of the Sisters of Mercy. Santa Cruz, and a tour of San Francisco’s Auxiliary Bishop William J. Justice was Haight-Ashbury District…. Young Men’s principal celebrant of the Mercy Day Mass. Institute councils from All Souls Parish, Learning to love the hallowed halls their St. Cecilia Parish and Notre Dame des moms walked in earlier days are Mercy, Victoires Parish faced-off in the group’s Burlingame freshmen Megan Dahlberg, annual Bocce Ball Tournament in South Alexandra Levaggi, Colleen Sammons, Archbishop George Niederauer San Francisco in September. Almost 50 Ixchel Mendieta de la Torre, Angie YMI members and their families from and Angela Alioto at St. Francis Guerrero, Nina Hall, Morgan Sanders, councils throughout Northern California Award dinner at National Shrine Alexa Bunker and Sara Metling…. A also took part. “St. Cecilia’s council orgaof St. Francis of Assisi. Mercy Day Mass and Luncheon was held nized the event with much effort from Mike September 22 at St. Stephen Elementary Dimech” the YMI said in a note to this School. Father Len Calegari, retired pastor of St. Peter’s in column….This is an empty space without you. Send items via Pacifica and in residence at St. Stephen’s, was principal cel- e-mail to burket@sfarchdiocese.org and by ground to “Street,” ebrant. St. Stephen Women’s Guild held a lunch for faculty One Peter Yorke Way, San Francisco 94109. Electronic phoand staff. The Sisters of Mercy founded St. Stephen school 58 tos should be jpegs at 300 dpi. No zip files, please. Hard copy years ago,” said Sharon McCarthy Allen, principal. “Although photos are also welcome sent to the Peter Yorke Way address. it has been run by lay leadership for the past eight years the I can be reached at (415) 614-5634.
Donate Your Car 800-YES-SVDP (800-937-7837)
• FREE sameFAST day pickup FREE AND PICKUP • MaximumTAX Tax Deduction • MAXIMUM DEDUCTION WeTHE do DMV paperwork • WE• DO PAPERWORK • Running not, noRESTRICTIONS restrictions • RUNNING OR or NOT, NO • 100%HELPS helps YOUR your community • DONATION COMMUNITY Serving the poor since 1845
ST. VINCENT DE PAUL SOCIETY Serving the poor since 1860
www.yes-svdp.org www.yes-svdp.com
ST. VINCENT DE PAUL SOCIETY
West Coast Church Supplies 369 Grand Avenue South San Francisco
Serving The Catholic – Christian Community since 1904
Your complete resource for Religious Goods
1-800-767-0660
1455 Custer Avenue, San Francisco 94124 415-333-4494 • FAX 415-333-0402 Hours: M-F 9 am – 5 pm Sat. 10am – 2 pm e-mail: sales@kaufers.com www.kaufers.com
Easy access: 3 blocks west of 101
HELPLINES FOR CLERGY/CHURCH SEXUAL ABUSE VICTIMS 415-614-5506 This number is answered by Barbara Elordi, Archdiocesan Pastoral Outreach Coordinator. This is a secured line and is answered only by Barbara Elordi. 415-614-5503 If you wish to speak to a non-archdiocesan employee please call this nunmber. This is also a secured line and is answered only by a victim survivor.
LEARN ROSARY MAKING A Catholic Tradition Contact us for a catalog and introductory offer!
LEWIS & COMPANY Dedicated to Rosary Making!
(800) 342 - 2400 rosaryparts.com
ADHD STUDY The Hyperactivity, Attention, and Learning Problems (HALP) program has a study for kids ages 6-17 with ADHD. If your child takes a long-acting stimulant but still has trouble with ADHD, and is willing to try an investigational non-stimulant in addition, he or she may qualify and receive a physical exam, study-related medical care, diagnostic report, payment for time and travel, and help with behavior management. Parents continue to pay for their stimulant, but all other study benefits are free. To learn more, please call Nancy at 415-476-7854.
Bibles, Books, Rosaries,Statues, Jewelry, Medals, Crucifixes, Baptism and Christening Gifts
Mon – Fri 9:30 to 5:30 Sat 9:30 – 5
Donate Your Vehicle
GOOD IND of San
&Marin Count
TAX DEDUCTION FOR YOUR CAR, TRUCK or SUV
D O N AT E O N L I N E
vehiclesforcharity.com
1.800.574.0888
QUALITY HOME CARE SERVING THE BAY AREA SINCE 1996 * Attendants * Companions * Hospice * Respite Care
Competitive Rates All service providers carefully screened We are insured and bonded Full Payroll Service 2021 Taraval Street #2, SF www.irishhelpathome.com
Tel: 415 759 0520
November 6, 2009
Jordan’s Prince Hassan: Moral courage crucial as national strife feeds Mideast’s “human dignity deficit”
Amman, Jordan – An appeal to common moral roots can break the “hatred industry” that sows trouble in the Middle East and threatens worse to come, Jordan’s Prince El Hassan bin Talal told journalists. Replace one-on-one parrying over narrow national differences with a regional perspective based on human dignity, and long-term peace may win out, the prince said in an interview at the royal palace with 20 Christian journalists visiting Jordan on an ecumenical press tour sponsored by the Jordan tourism board. The answer is in Matthew 7:12 and in similar lovethy-neighbor commands that appear in a dozen other faith traditions, the prince said. The costs of continuing business as usual, with its “engineered polarity” and stress on a militant view of security, could be high indeed, the prince said. What he called a “human dignity deficit” is growing as the population of unemployed Arabs rises to a predicted 55 million in 2050, he warned. “If we just sit back and allow this to happen, we are actually hothousing, as we speak, with our ineffectual politics, the hatred that we claim we fear and we genuinely fear,” he said. Prince Hassan traced the region’s troubles to pre-World War I European colonial policies that intentionally created division and poverty in the Eastern Mediterranean. At about the same time oil replaced coal to fuel warships. “The hubris of the use of this new development meant that the industrial machine was powered by basic resources coming from this region with no consideration of the people living next to the pipelines,” he said. But the prince was not only critical of outsiders. “If I were to stand on a soapbox in a refugee camp and say, ‘What do you want?’, they would say the right of return or throwing Israel into the sea. But if I were to go to their individual homes, as I have done, 60 percent of our youth want to migrate. A university education is the leverage for migration. There is no chance of progressing in a merit-based system. There is no merit-based system. Colonialism is rife in this region. Corruption is rife in this region. We have to be self-critical.”
Prince El Hassan bin Talal
(PHOTO BY RICK DELVECCHIO/CATHOLIC SAN FRANCISCO)
By Rick DelVecchio
Jordanian royal advisor Akel Biltaji
Prince Hassan, 62, served as his late brother King Hussein’s closest adviser and is known as a voice for dialogue and humanitarianism in the region. In his 1995 book “Christianity in the Arab World,” he praised Arab Christians’ historic role in promoting knowledge in the Muslim world and ties to the West. Those ties are strained today, and the prince openly wondered whether nations want to stabilize the North-South line that runs through the region or are content to accept the region’s hybrid nature and the warfare that results from it. The prince thinks the Middle East has become almost a brand signifying political division and believes the name should be set aside and replaced with Southwest Asia. Let the nations of Southwest Asia form a new regional identity and learn to talk to each other in a new way as they work on security and economic problems on a regional basis, he said. “One cannot continue to look ad hoc today at the Palestinians and the Israelis, Iraq the day after that, Iran, Afghanistan, Yemen,” the prince said. “The whole region is in turmoil, partly because of the breakdown of governance, which I call good bedside manner, knowing how to talk to people, knowing how to listen to people, knowing how to interact with people and their different psychological and linguistic traditions, and trying to develop a more human understanding of security.”
The prince offered a small example of how linguistic differences can blow out of proportion to the actual differences between people. In France, the term “secular” means the right of free speech and free belief. In the Arab world, it means irreligious. An international perspective could help nations rise above these surface differences, the prince proposed. He recounted an exchange he had with the Israelis, who told him they could never have complete peace with the Arabs because of Iran. He recalled his answer: “I said, ‘Well, I can see where you’re coming from because anything that lands on you, as in the Saddam era, affects us directly. But is it for you to talk about Iran today, and Pakistan tomorrow, and India the day after, or is it for the international community?’” The prince decried the lack of an economic-social council where Mideast nations can work together. “The hypocrisy is that we meet with the Israelis under the umbrella of the U.N. in Geneva and New York, but we do not yet discuss supra-national issues which took the Franco-Prussian War and the first war and the second war for the Europeans to discuss in terms of the oil and steel community. So why cannot we discuss a water and energy community for the human environment?” Prince Hassan called for a new perspective on Jerusalem, the divided city on the edge of violence over claims to more than 200 Jewish, Christian and Muslim sacred sites. For the prince, Noah is the most fitting symbol for the new Jerusalem. “Noah created an ark for the salvation of humanity,” the prince said. “Can we create an ark for the salvation of our common humanity?” A “Jerusalem consciousness fund” to promote the civil state and elevate religion above politics may be a step forward, he said. “My hope in terms of aesthetic uplift and spiritual uplift,” the prince said, “is one day to see a combination of Aramaic, Syriac, Hebrew and Gregorian cultures celebrating creation, celebrating our Lord.” Journalists heard another perspective on Mideast politics from a second high-ranking Jordanian civic leader, Senator Akel E. Biltaji. The Gaza-born Biltaji serves as King Abdullah II’s adviser on tourism promotion, foreign direct investment and country branding. JORDAN: VOICES OF PEACE, page 11
... RESTORING DIGNITY TODAY St. Anthony Foundation 150 Golden Gate Avenue San Francisco, CA 94102 Phone: (415) 241-2600 Fax: (415) 440-7770 E-mail: info@stanthonysf.org CONNECT WITH US: u
Visit our website: stanthonysf.org
u
Follow our blog: stanthonysf.org/blog
u
Watch us: youtube.com/ stanthonysf
u
Follow our tweets: twitter.com/stanthonysf
u
Be our friend: myspace.com/ stanthonysf
u
3
The Middle East (PHOTO BY NATHAN MIHELICH/DOMINICAN SISTERS OF SPRINGFIELD)
Jordan: Voices of peace
Catholic San Francisco
Link in at: stanthonysf.org/facebook
E P O H G N I D L I BU W O R R O M O T R O F
After being robbed of all her money, Patricia turned to St. Anthony’s to make it through the end of the month. ST. ANTHONY’S SOCIAL WORK CENTER ASSISTED PATRICIA WITH HER RENT, EMERGENCY SUPPLEMENTAL FOOD, AND OTHER RESOURCES TO MAKE SURE SHE STAYED HOUSED AND HEALTHY.
YOUR GIFT TODAY will go to help sustain seniors at the Social Work Center, feed families at the St. Anthony Dining Room, train the newly unemployed in The Tenderloin Tech Lab or heal the sick at the St. Anthony Free Medical Clinic.
ST. ANTHONY FOUNDATION HOLIDAY CURBSIDE DONATION DRIVE Bring your donations of clean warm clothing, brand new toiletries, dried and canned foods to St. Anthony Foundation’s 22nd Annual Curbside Drive on the week before Thanksgiving and the week before Christmas. Weekdays 8AM to 6PM and Weekends 9AM – 3PM. Volunteers will be on site in red jackets to receive your much needed donations at 121 Golden Gate Avenue at Jones Street in San Francisco. Donations will be given free of charge to those in need. For more information call 415-592-2700 or visit stanthonysf.org.
4
Catholic San Francisco
NEWS
November 6, 2009
in brief
COLOGNE, Germany – A German cardinal said commemorations of the collapse of the Berlin Wall ignore contributions by the Catholic Church. “It is simply untrue, as many critics maintain, that the Church was introverted – just the opposite,” said Cardinal Joachim Meisner of Cologne, who served as bishop of Berlin 1980-88. “Throughout these years, Christians formed a living protest against this inhuman system,” said the cardinal. “Yet in the many declarations, speeches, interviews and books appearing for the 20th anniversary, the church’s role is being evaluated and covered only very superficially, even by Catholics.” On Nov. 9 Germans will commemorate the 1989 fall of the wall, which divided West Germany from the communist-ruled East Germany for 28 years. Cardinal Meisner said that under communist rule the Berlin Diocese never adjusted its boundaries, and church officials refused to participate in state ceremonies. Berlin became an archdiocese in 1994.
Respect life, welcome migrants VATICAN CITY – Catholics’ respect for human life and dignity must be clear in the way they welcome migrants and refugees, offer them pastoral care and lobby their governments for fairer treatment of people on the move, Vatican officials said. Archbishop Antonio Maria Veglio, president of the Pontifical Council for Migrants and Travelers, said globalization is not only an economic phenomenon. It also has an impact on the movement of people, and people must be the focus of Christian attention, he said. “We know as Christians that life’s core is fundamentally spiritual and that the challenge is how to promote and safeguard every human person,” focusing particularly on the most vulnerable, including migrants who leave home in search of a better life and refugees forced to flee violence or oppression, the archbishop said Nov. 3. The archbishop spoke at a Vatican press conference previewing the Sixth World Congress on the Pastoral Care of Migrants and Refugees, which his office is convoking Nov. 9-12 at the Vatican.
Religious freedom violations UNITED NATIONS – The right to religious freedom “continues to be widely violated,” the Vatican’s nuncio to the United Nations told a U.N. committee. Archbishop Celestino Migliore stressed that there is “no religion on the planet” free
(CNS PHOTO/DAVID BRAUCHLI, REUTERS)
German cardinal stresses Catholic role in toppling Berlin Wall
People stand atop the Berlin Wall in front of the Brandenburg Gate in this historic Nov. 10, 1989 photo.
from discrimination and noted that “acts of intolerance and violations of religious freedom continue to be perpetrated in many forms.” He said that more cases of religious freedom violations have recently been brought to courts and international human rights groups. Amid the increase of religious intolerance worldwide, he said Christians have been the group most discriminated against. In recent months, Christian communities in Asian and Middle Eastern countries have been attacked, leaving many injured and killed and churches and homes burned. He said these actions have occurred in response to anti-blasphemy laws that criminalize any defamation of Islam and often are used to “foster injustice, sectarian violence and violence between religions.”
Cardinal comments on visitation VATICAN CITY – Cardinal Franc Rode, head of the Vatican office overseeing religious orders, said he requested an apostolic visitation of women’s religious orders in the United States to help the sisters and to respond to concerns for their welfare. “This apostolic visitation hopes to encourage vocations and assure a better future for women religious,” the cardinal said in a statement released Nov. 3 by the Vatican. Cardinal Rode, prefect of the Congregation for Institutes of Consecrated Life and Societies of Apostolic Life, said his statement was in response to “many news accounts” and inquiries about the visitation, which was announced in January. Cardinal Rode insisted that the apostolic visitation is a response to
“concerns expressed by American Catholics – religious, laity, clergy and hierarchy – about the welfare of religious women and consecrated life in general.” He said his office already had been considering convoking an apostolic visitation when he traveled to the United States in 2008 for a symposium on religious life, where the “multitude and complexity” of the problems and challenges facing U.S. religious were made clear by speakers.” Cardinal Rode said he hoped the visitation would give the Vatican an accurate and thorough picture of the life of U.S. women religious, and also would be “a realistic and graced opportunity for personal and community introspection as major superiors and sisters cooperate in this study.”
Bishops meet Nov. 16-19 WASHINGTON – Life issues from the test tube to the deathbed are on the agenda for the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ fall general assembly in Baltimore Nov. 16-19. The meeting also will include what the bishops hope will be their final consideration of action items related to the Roman Missal and debate and vote on a lengthy document offering support to married couples and affirming that true marriage can only involve a man and a woman. The meeting agenda also will feature a preliminary report on the causes and context study on clergy sexual abuse of minors conducted by the John Jay College of Criminal Justice; a report by the National Religious Vocation Conference on NEWS IN BRIEF, page 5
Visit us at
catholic-sf.org Catholic san Francisco Newspaper of the Archdiocese of San Francisco
Most Reverend George H. Niederauer, publisher Maurice E. Healy, associate publisher & executive editor: healym@sfarchdiocese.org Editorial Staff: Rick DelVecchio, assistant editor: delvecchior@sfarchdiocese.org; Tom Burke, “On the Street”/Datebook: burket@sfarchdiocese.org; Michael Vick, reporter: vickm@sfarchdiocese.org;
For your local & international Catholic news, website listings, advertising information and “Place Classified Ad” Form
Advertising: Joseph Pena, director; Mary Podesta, account representative Sandy Finnegan, advertising and promotion services
Catholic San Francisco editorial offices are located at One Peter Yorke Way, San Francisco, CA 94109. Tel: (415) 614-5640;Circulation: 1-800-563-0008 or (415) 614-5638; News fax: (415) 614-5633; Advertising: (415) 614-5642; Advertising fax: (415) 614-5641; Advertising E-mail: penaj@sfarchdiocese.org
Production: Karessa McCartney-Kavanaugh, manager Joel Carrico, assistant Business Office: Virginia Marshall, assistant business manager; Julio Escobar, circulation and subscriber services
Catholic San Francisco (ISSN 15255298) is published weekly (four times per month) September through May, except in the week following Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day, and twice a month in June, July and August by the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of San Francisco, 1500 Mission Rd., P.O. Box 1577, Colma, CA 94014. Periodical postage paid at South San Francisco, CA. Annual subscription price: $27 within California, $36 outside the state.
Advisory Board: Fr. John Balleza, Deacon Jeffery Burns, Ph. D., James Clifford, Fr. Thomas Daly, Nellie Hizon, James Kelly, Sr. Sheral Marshall, OSF, Deacon Bill Mitchell, Teresa Moore.
Postmaster: Send address changes to Catholic San Francisco, 1500 Mission Rd., P.O. Box 1577, Colma, CA 94014 If there is an error in the mailing label affixed to this newspaper, call 1-800-563-0008. It is helpful to refer to the current mailing label.
for subscriptions or cancellations please call 1-800-563-0008 or 415-614-5638
November 6, 2009
News in brief . . .
Nun found murdered
â– Continued from page 4
GALLUP, N.M. – Authorities were awaiting results of an autopsy Nov. 3 to determine the exact cause of the death of Blessed Sacrament Sister Marguerite Bartz, who was found dead in her Navajo convent two days earlier. The 64-year-old sister’s body was discovered in the convent at St. Berard Church by a colleague when she failed to show up for Sunday Mass. FBI and state police authorities believe she was murdered. However, an FBI spokesman declined to say how Sister Marguerite died. Darrin Jones, the agent, told Catholic News Service that an automobile Sister Marguerite had been using was discovered Nov. 3. Details about its discovery were not made available. It had been missing since her body was found. Navajo is located near Arizona, about 40 miles northwest of Gallup. It is in the Diocese of Gallup, which covers part of northern Arizona and northern New Mexico. Sister Marguerite had ministered at the parish since 1999, handling religious education and pastoral ministry duties.
a recent study of religious vocations; and an address by Cardinal Francis E. George of Chicago.
Hospital strike averted WASHINGTON – The union representing more than 10,000 nurses at California’s largest not-for-profit hospital system has reached a settlement with hospital officials that both sides say sets a national standard to guard against the spread of the H1N1 flu and future pandemics. Announced Nov. 2, the agreement between the California Nurses Association/ National Nurses Organizing Committee and Catholic Healthcare West calls for creating a systemwide emergency task force that includes both nurses and hospital representatives to respond to a declaration of a pandemic emergency. A Catholic Healthcare West official said the 32 hospitals in the system in California and Nevada have been following federal and state standards for the H1N1 virus.
‘The Archbishop’s Hour’ Immaculate Heart Radio 1260 AM San Francisco “The Archbishop’s Hour� with San Francisco Archbishop George H. Niederauer airs Friday morning at 9 a.m. – with encore broadcasts Friday at 9 p.m., Sunday at 11 a.m., and Monday at 9p.m. Be informed, inspired and entertained; meet people from the Bay Area and beyond. Produced by the Office of Communications of the Archdiocese of San Francisco and hosted by Tom Burke, the Archbishop’s Hour is broadcast without charge by Immaculate heart Radio-1260 AM.
Learn How to Lead a Healthier Lifestyle At At Seton Setton Medical Med dical Center, Centter, our our goal goal is to to improve improvee and and maintain maintaiin the thee health health of our our community commu unity
Passion Play 2010 Oberammergau, Germany
!!! 3/*/52.3 ).6)4%3 9/5 4/ 7)4.%33 ()34/29
Passion Play Highlights s /RIGINATING IN THIS HISTORIC EVENT OCCURS ONLY ONCE EVERY YEARS IN /BERAMMERGAU 'ERMANY s %PIC PRESENTATION OF THE LIFE OF #HRIST s &EATURES LOCAL ACTORS AND SINGERS s $RAWS INTERNATIONAL AUDIENCES
Trip Highlights s DAY VACATION THROUGHOUT 'ERMANY AND !USTRIA s 6ISIT 5.%3#/ 7ORLD (ERITAGE SITES 3CHĂšNBRUNN 0ALACE 6IENNA AND 3ALZBURG s %XPLORE .EUSCHWANSTEIN THE FAIRY TALE HILLTOP CASTLE OF +ING ,UDWIG )) WHICH INSPIRED 7ALT $ISNEY S CASTLE s #RUISE ALONG THE $ANUBE 2IVER s %NJOY WINE TASTING AND DINNER FOLLOWED BY A RIDE ON A 0RATER 7HEEL
FREE upcoming Healthy Living seminars
Relieve Hip and Knee Pain and Get Back to the Activities tivities You Enjoy
5
Catholic San Francisco
s %XPERIENCE A -OZART CONCERT AND DINNER IN 3ALZBURG
-AY *UNE 3EPTEMBER DAYS FOR Guaranteed departures
Presented by
Victoria L. Barber, MD
Tuesday November 17
5:30 – 7:00 pm
Orthopedic Joint Replacement Specialist
Dr. Barber will discuss the latest surgical techniques to treat arthritis of the hips and knees. Topics include the elimination of pain, enhanced mobility y and greater independence.
Don’t Wait Another 10 Years for This Opportunity!
Glaucoma and Cataracts - Early Detection is Key in Preserving Your “View� of the World
Visit your local AAA branch #ALL s #LICK !!! COM 3OJOURNS
Presented by
Thursday November 19
12:30 – 1:30 pm
Caroline A. Mendoza-Fisher, MD Ophthalmologist
Are you at risk for glaucoma or cataracts? Dr. Fisher will discuss the symptoms, importance of early or detection and treatment options for glaucoma and cataracts.
~ Yo Hablo Espanol
All classes are held in Seton’s DePaul Auditorium 1850 Sullivan Ave , 3rd Floor, Daly City
Please call 800.436.2404 to reserve your seat
0RICES ARE PER PERSON BASED ON DOUBLE OCCUPANCY ARE SUBJECT TO AVAILABILITY AT TIME OF BOOKING AND MAY CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE 3INGLE SUPPLEMENT MAY APPLY 5NLESS STATED OTHERWISE AIRFARE TAXES AND GOVERNMENT FEES ARE NOT INCLUDED /FFERS VALID FOR NEW BOOKINGS ONLY -EMBER BENEl T IS PER PERSON AND APPLIES TO l RST AND SECOND TRAVELER ONLY -EMBER BENEl TS ARE AVAILABLE ONLY WITH ADVERTISED FARE AND ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE 9OUR TRAVEL ARRANGEMENTS MAY BE MODIl ED OR CANCELLED SUBJECT TO THE TRAVEL PROVIDERS POLICIES "LACK OUT DATES AND OTHER RESTRICTIONS MAY APPLY &ARES MAY NOT REm ECT ADDITIONAL FUEL SUPPLEMENT AND VARY BY PROVIDER 7E MAKE EVERY EFFORT FOR ACCURACY AT TIME OF PRINTING BUT RESERVE THE RIGHT TO CORRECT ERRORS !!! 4RAVEL STRONGLY RECOMMENDS THE PURCHASE OF TRIP PROTECTION INSURANCE !SK YOUR !!! 6ACATION 3PECIALIST FOR DETAILS 3PECIAL CANCELLATION PENALTIES APPLY #34 2EGISTRATION AS SELLER OF TRAVEL DOES NOT CONSTITUTE APPROVAL BY THE 3TATE OF #ALIFORNIA š #ALIFORNIA 3TATE !UTOMOBILE !SSOCIATION !LL RIGHTS RESERVED Promo Code: AAA-S102 (Sept 2009)
www.setonmedicalcenter.org
6
Catholic San Francisco
November 6, 2009
California bishops express appreciation for contributions of women religious California’s Catholic bishops, at their semi-annual conference in late October, issued a “Statement of Appreciation for Women Religious in California.� They noted a number of religious communities in California have celebrated or will celebrate their California founding anniversaries this decade. They recounted that many of them had received questions from the faithful regarding the Apostolic Visitation of Institutes of Women Religious in the United States. They also noted that in this “Year for Priests,� some Priests’ councils or senates in the (arch) dioceses of California are recognizing women religious as their indispensible partners in the work of “bringing the message of the Gospel to the western regions of our country.� The bishops agreed that in light of these observations, it was fitting that they issue a joint “Statement of Appreciation for the Women Religious of California.� The statement follows: October 29, 2009 During the month of October we honor the Blessed Virgin Mary, the faith-filled woman of the Gospel. As we, the Bishops of California, reflect on her generous response to God, we call to mind other faith-filled women—the thousands of Women Religious whose presence and ministry have helped to shape the face of the Catholic Church in California. We find it appropriate to acknowledge with profound gratitude the contributions of these women of the Gospel who have lived and served in the Catholic Dioceses and Archdioceses of California.
Throughout the history of the Church in California, Women Religious, faithful to their founding charisms, have served a population characterized by ethnic diversity and challenged by the societal, economic and political conditions of changing times. For nearly two hundred years they have been faithful disciples and co-workers in bringing the message of the Gospel to the western regions of our country. By virtue of their vowed consecration, religious are indeed “signs of contradiction� to our world as they foster a personal relationship with the Lord Jesus, a communal
relationship with those with whom they share charism and spirit in their religious institutes, and an ecclesial relationship manifested in generous service to all members of the Body of Christ. Women Religious bear witness to the unique value of lives given totally to God in love and expressed in generous service to God’s people. Deeply rooted in prayer and impelled by God’s Holy Spirit, Women Religious further the Reign of God as they participate in the mission of Jesus through their ministries of education, health care, pastoral services and social outreach. Despite challenges and
sacrifices of every kind, they have served in a spirit of untiring selflessness, generosity and charity and continue to do so to this day. We, the Bishops of California, join our people in thanking Women Religious for being our “sisters,� for their presence among us, for their witness to the richness and varied gifts of the Spirit, and for the difference they have made in our lives. They have blessed us. We assure them of our sincere support and of our grateful prayers. May our Women Religious, like Mary, continue to witness hope in our Church and in our world.
Cathedral’s ‘Festival of Flowers’ an inspiration for participants and attendees More than 3,000 people toured this year’s Festival of Flowers in early October at the Cathedral of St. Mary of the Assumption in San Francisco, where Father John Talesfore is rector.
“Twenty-two parishes took part in the Little Flower Festival this year, joined by 17 students from City College of San Francisco’s Horticulture and Floristry who also designed works for the Sacred Treasures
!
About Kerry Rockers Kerry Rockers is a Human Resources professional with experience across a wide range of industries – non-profit, manufacturing and currently financial services. For the last 10 years Kerry has been an internal Human Resource Consultant to senior technology managers as well as worked in rotational assignments across Corporate Human Resources functions such as Mergers and Acquisitions, Corporate Recruiting and Team Member Marketing. Currently Kerry is leading the project management of the integration of team member portals, the primary team member intranets at two merging national banks. Kerry has her Bachelor’s degree from the Catholic University of America in Washington DC and her MBA with a double emphasis in Management and International Business from the University of San Francisco. Kerry is a parishioner at St. Dominic’s Church in San Francisco.
Topic - Navigating Work’s Difficult Situations
Exhibit,� said Doug Benbow, director of liturgy at the Cathedral and a principal organizer of the Festival of Flowers. Ten florists from Ireland and England joined local professional designers to decorate the Shrines, baptistery and main altar, of the Cathedral, Benbow said. “It was very moving to see so many people from as far away as Sacramento here to take part in the Festival,� he continued. “The most heartwarming thing for me was to hear on numerous occasions throughout the festival, from people who have lived here in San Francisco and the Bay Area all their lives say that they were visiting the Cathedral for the first time and were being inspired by the whole experience.� Workshops were held for those who are responsible for decorating their parish church, and practical designing tips were demonstrated. Each of the two workshops
Work environments can be full of tough situations, especially in today’s economy. Learn how you can approach work’s difficult situations in ways that are in alignment with your faith and create the impact you want on the individuals involved. Through her Human Resources roles, Kerry Rockers has advised managers and team members on how to successfully navigate through work’s sticky and upsetting situations. In this session, Kerry will share some key concepts and approaches to help guide you through hard work situations as well as give you an opportunity to apply what’s being discussed.
Event Details – Event Date: Wednesday, November 18, 2009 Event Location: Palio D’Asti Restaurant, 640 Sacramento Street at Montgomery; San Francisco, CA 94111 Format: Registration begins at 7:00am followed by mass. Program begins at 7:30am, ending by 8:30am.
http://cpbckerryrockers.eventbrite.com/
Mark Your Calendars - Upcoming CPBC Programs: December 9 (2nd Wed) – 3rd Annual Happy Hour Christmas Party at the Elk’s Lodge. January 13 (2nd Wed) - Evening Meeting with Archbishop George Niederauer ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Yes, I would like to attend this event on 11/18/09. Check one:
$20 $30
_______ I am a member . Event cost is $20 per member _______ I am Not a member. Event cost is $30 per non-member
NAME: _______________________________________PHONE: _______________________________ ADDRESS:___________________________________________________________________________ E-MAIL _________________________________________PARISH: ___________________________ This information is for CPBC only and will not be used for any solicitation. Mail this form & a check payable to “CPBC-
ADSF� to: CPBC, Attn: Mary Jansen, One Peter Yorke Way, San Francisco, CA 94109
NOV. 20-22 MEN’S RETREAT Fr. Rusty Shaughnessy, OFM & Team NOV. 20-22 RETIRO LATINO Fr. Oscar Mendez, OFM NOV. 27-29 RECOVERY RETREAT Fr. John Conley
RETREATS & MEETING
DEC. 4-6
2009 THEME:
Life In Abundance
PO Box 767 • Danville, CA 94526 925-837-9141 • www.sandamiano.org
Santa Cruz 2381 LAUREL GLEN ROAD SOQUEL CA 95073 E-mail: stclares@sbcglobal.net Web site: www.nonprofitpages/stclaresretreat
2ETREATS s #ONFERENCES -EETINGS s 7ORKSHOPS 250 Oak Grove Avenue Menlo Park, CA 94025-3218
(650) 325-5614 www.vallombrosa.org
Calendar of Events: .OV The Catholic Church in the World: “Leading an Ethical Business Life in an Unethical World� with Kirk Hanson .OV Sister Joan Prohaska, O.P.: “Healing with Sound and Light� .OV Thanksgiving Prayer Service with the Vallombrosa Choir $EC Advent Silent Retreat $EC Advent Day of Prayer
SAN DAMIANO RETREAT
ST. CLARE’S RETREAT
This facility is available for
‌where challenging issues of the day are explored in a reective and prayerful environment.
GRIEF RETREAT Carol Kaplan, MFT
DEC. 10-13 SILENT ADVENT CENTERING PRAYER RETREAT Fr. Tommy Brennan Eileen Halliburton
Effective April 2009, we will no longer be mailing monthly flyers in order to go “green�. We have two other effective ways to communicate with you - Monthly e-mails and our website- www.cpbc-sf.org
VALLOMBROSACENTER
was filled to capacity. “The ‘Gala Preview and Reception’ was a big hit this year,� Benbow said, “with over 500 people in attendance, including Archbishop George Niederauer, Bishop Ignatius Wang and Bishop William Justice.� Dignitaries included the Consul General of the United Kingdom, Julian Evans and his wife Gayle; From the Consulate of Mexico, Jonathan Chait, consul for Cultural Affairs, and Gerardo Chong Lozano, consul for Commercial Affairs, attended. A festival of choirs closed the event. Participating were groups from San Francisco: Cathedral of the Assumption, Mission Dolores Basilica, Notre Dame des Victoires, St. Vincent de Paul, St. Thomas More and St. Monica; San Mateo County: Mater Dolorosa, St Bartholomew, St. Catherine of Siena; Marin County: St. Hilary.
Reservations for weekends must be made by mail and accompanied by a $10 non-refundable deposit per person. Suggested retreat donation $115.00 private room, $105.00 per person double room.
NOVEMBER 13-15 SPANISH RETREAT – MEN & WOMEN Fr. Alberto Cabrea 20-22 CHINESE RETREAT 27-29 THANKSGIVING – NO RETREAT
DECEMBER 4-6
SILENT PRE-CHRISTMAS – MEN & WOMEN Fr. Patrick Crowley, SS.CC.
12
ANNUAL PROMOTERS’ MASS AND LUNCHEON
2 to 3:30PM 9:30AM to 3:30PM 2:00PM 4PM 12/4 – 1PM 12/6 9AM to 3PM
CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS –NO RETREATS (831) 423-8093 • Fax: (831) 423-1541
November 6, 2009
Catholic San Francisco
7
8
Catholic San Francisco
November 6, 2009
Catholic Charities CYO of San Francisco names five new board members
Sister M. Ellene Egan, RSM
San Francisco Archbishop George H. Niederauer, chair of the Board of Directors for Catholic Charities CYO for the Archdiocese of San Francisco, has named five new board members to the panel. “It is with pleasure and gratitude that we welcome these new members to Catholic Charities CYO who bring experience in resources that will strengthen the agency’s work in serving and advocating for the Bay Area’s most vulnerable,” Archbishop Niederauer said in an announcement of the appointments. Mercy Sister Ellene Egan, Ed. D. is a Professor of Nursing at the University of
John A. Knight
Robert P. McGrath
San Francisco and faculty chair of the USF School of Nursing. John A. Knight who holds a graduate degree in business from Fordham University, has served as a senior level manager in the financial services industry for 30 years and currently serves as manager of Business Services for First Republic Bank. Robert P. McGrath, a graduate of the University of Notre Dame, founded McGrath RentCorp. The Knight of Malta is a trustee of Hanna Boys Center in Sonoma and member of the board of advisors at St. Anne’s Home in San Francisco. Ann Gray Miller, a graduate of the University
Ann Gray Miller
of San Francisco Law School, is a partner with San Francisco law firm Nixon Peabody and leader of the group’s Women’s Initiative. Miller is also a graduate of San Francisco’s Convent of the Sacred Heart Schools and has served as counsel to that body as well as the school’s sister campus in Atherton. D. Paul Regan, a certified public accountant, is chairman of the board with Hemming Morse Inc. Regan serves on the board of the Jesuit School of Theology in Berkeley and is a member of the Hillsborough Town Council in San Mateo County. The Catholic Charities CYO Board of Directors includes officers, Archbishop
D. Paul Regan.
George H. Niederauer, Cecilia Herbert, Nanette Lee Miller, Carlos Alvarez, and Jeffrey V. Bialik. Members of the board include Sharon McCarthy Allen, Nicholas Andrade, Steven G. Borden, Kathleen Cardinal, Mark W. Cleary, Father Thomas Daly, Deborah Dasovich, Sister Ellene Egan, RSM, Jeffrey Fenton, Father Charles Gagan, SJ, Bernard P. Hagan, Sr, John A. Knight, James McCabe, Robert P. McGrath, Ann Gray Miller, Stephen Molinelli, Robert B. Morris, III, Mark Okashima, Tim Rea, D. Paul Regan, William T. Ring, Rita Semel, Timothy Alan Simon, Maureen Sullivan, Father Kenneth Weare, Jacqueline Woodford.
Three to be inducted into CYO Athletics Hall of Fame Joanne Fitzpatrick, Maureen Moriarty and Pete Murray will be inducted into the CYO Athletics Hall of Fame in ceremonies at San Francisco’s St. Emydius Parish Jan. 23. Joanne Fitzpatrick “played a key role among the core group of women who instituted full participation in CYO Athletics for girls,” CCCYO said in an agency announcement of the awards. Her involvement in CYO Athletics has included coaching, athletic director, and CYO Board member. “Joanne’s foresight and commitment over 35 years ago to get girls involved in CYO Athletics laid the groundwork for the expanded girls program today,” said Courtney Johnson Clendinen, director of CYO Athletics. Maureen Moriarty has volunteered for Church of the Epiphany sports programs for more than 20 years as coach and athletic director. She has coached in CYO Athletics’ co-ed volleyball division since its inception in 2007. “Maureen is always willing to go the extra mile for CYO Athletics as well as the Epiphany program,” Clendinen said, noting Moriarty
“gives selflessly of her time” and is “a great role model on giving back to the community.” CCCYO called Pete Murray “one of the founding fathers of modern-day CYO Athletics.” He was the first chairman of the CYO Athletics Advisory Board and as athletic director at Holy Name of Jesus Parish “administered a grammar school athletics program which became a model for other athletic programs,” CCYO said. “Pete’s contribution to CYO Athletics has allowed over 8,000 kids to participate,” Clendinen said, adding Murray’s “forward thinking in creating multiple divisions per grade” was substantive in the success of the CYO Athletics program. “CYO Athletics represent the very best partnership and collaboration between and among Catholic Charities CYO, the Archdiocese of San Francisco, Catholic schools, local parishes, their parishioners and neighbors,” said Jeff Bialik, executive director of Catholic Charities CYO. “The annual Hall of Fame Dinner is an opportunity for all these groups to join together in community and celebration.”
The Hall of Fame Dinner, established in 2008, recognizes individuals who have provided a legacy of leadership and championed the virtues and values of CYO Athletics. The evening’s keynote speaker is Jennifer Azzi, who played championship basketball
at Stanford University from 1987-1990 and was inducted into the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame in June 2009. Today, Azzi conducts player and coach clinics for CYO and also works with the NBA Care program. Information about the Hall of Fame Dinner is available at cyo.cccyo.org.
More than 400 people attended a Mass commemorating Todos Los Santos – All Saints Day - at Holy Cross Cemetery in Colma Oct. 31. Monsignor Fred Bitanga, retired pastor of St. Patrick Parish in San Francisco, was principal celebrant. Father Jonathan Paala, pastor, St. Luke Parish in Foster City, here distributing Holy Communion, was among the concelebrants.
St. Monica School Where Students Are Loved and Challenged
COMMUNITY OPEN HOUSE Sunday, November 8, 2009 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Pettingell Book Bindery Klaus-Ullrich S. Rötzscher
Guests are also welcome to join our community for the 10:30 a.m. Mass in St. Monica Church
5950 Geary Blvd. San Francisco, CA 94121 415-751-9564 www.stmonicasf.org
Bibles, Theses, Gold Stamping. Quality Binding with Cloth, Leather or Paper. Single & Editions. Custom Box Making
2181 Bancroft Way Berkeley, CA 94704 (510) 845-3653
November 6, 2009
St. Raphael event. . . ■ Continued from cover to a job description; rather it is what one becomes and lives in the very core of his person and life. Priesthood is gift. I feel that as an ordained priest my call and role in the life of the church are to help the baptized realize they share in the priesthood of Jesus Christ by their own baptism. They too are called to offer prayer, share Eucharist and sacrifice themselves in service of the poor and marginalized in the world. The faithful are called by baptism to preach the gospel by their words and more importantly by their lives. I, as priest, am ordained in order to point out and support the laity in their call to share the priesthood of Jesus Christ by the gift of water and the Holy Spirit.” The event began with adoration of the Blessed Sacrament and evening prayer in the Mission Chapel, which was filled to capacity. Parishioners reflected on the reading and psalms from the office of the hours usually read on the feast of St. John Vianney, the patron of priests. These readings focus on the priesthood and the role of the priest. The words of St Peter, for example, “God’s flock is in your midst; give it a shepherd’s
care” and Psalm 15 “my life is at the service of the Gospel; God has given me this gift of his peace” provided great food for thought during the evening meditation. Following evening prayer and adoration parishioners strolled over to the Kennedy Room, named after beloved former pastor Monsignor Tom Kennedy, and enjoyed a multi cultural delicious meal of foods prepared by parishioners. Every parish committee and group was involved in the effort. The eighth grade class was there to serve and the room was filled with conversation and laughter. Following the meal, the panel of Father Paul Rossi, pastor, Father Ngoan Van Phan, Precious Blood Father Dave Matz and Father Tom Daly talked about their vocations. Each spoke about being influenced in their call by parents, grandparents and significant others in their life. Father Van Phan shared a moving story of the people in his life that inspired him to listen to God’s call. He began by referring to Bartimaeus, the blind beggar, in the previous Sunday’s gospel. “I am a beggar too,” Father Van Phan said. “I consider myself as an international beggar. I ran away from Vietnam, my fatherland, to Hong Kong, and then to the United States of America, seeking food, clothes, and
November feasts of All Saints, All Souls VATICAN CITY (CNS) – Underlining people’s connection with those who have gone before them, the annual commemorations of All Saints and All Souls remind Christians that “we are never alone,” Pope Benedict XVI said. “We are part of a spiritual fellowship in which a deep solidarity reigns” through the prayers of the living for the eternal repose of the dead and through the intercession of the holy deceased on behalf of those still living, the pope said during his Sunday Angelus address Nov. 1, the feast of All Saints. The connection between the living and their deceased loved ones is a mysterious reality of sharing where the good one person does benefits all, the pope said. “It is a mystery that we can already experience to some extent in this world – in the family, through friendship and, especially in the spiri-
tual community of the church,” he said. Pope Benedict said that in remembering loved ones who have died, Christians do not focus only on the sadness of death because they know Jesus rose from the dead and he saves those who follow him. “So when we visit cemeteries, we remember that only the mortal remains of our dear ones lie in the tombs awaiting the final resurrection. Their souls – as Scriptures tells us – are already ‘in the hands of God,’” he said. The best way to honor those who have died, the pope said, is “to pray for them, offering acts of faith, hope and charity.” “We can intercede for their eternal salvation and experience the deepest communion while waiting to be with them again to enjoy forever the love that created us and redeemed us,” the pope said.
Who are we? Since 1883, the Young Men’s Institute (YMI) has operated as a fraternal ho arsupporting e w e? its motto of “Pro Deo, Pro Patria” (For God, CatholicWorder For Country). Today, over 2500 members (called brothers) honor this motto by working together on worthwhile programs & activities for our Catholic faith & for our communities. Besides doing good deeds, YMI brothers and their families enjoy a variety of fun social events (e.g., dinners, tournaments, picnics, etc), as well as membership benefits (e.g., scholarships, death benefits).
Catholic San Francisco
Father Van Pham shares his vocation story with St. Raphael parishioners Oct. 27.
money; seeking a better place to live; seeking an easier life. Just as Bartimaeus found Jesus among ‘a sizable crowd,’ I met Father Anthony McGuire and other good priests and nuns whom God sent into my life during my suffering years in Hong Kong’s refugee camps. Through this encounter, Jesus gave me spiritual vision to see his goodness in the living examples of the priests and the nuns. This encounter changed my life. This encounter changed my dream. I no longer focused on money or easier life, but willingly gave up my life to serve as a priest of the Church. And here I am – a priest of the Lord.” He continued, “Jesus asked the blind beggar Bartimaeus: ‘What do you want me to do for you?’ Bartimaeus replied: ‘Master, I want to see.’ And so he was able to see. If Jesus asked me the same question now, I would tell him: ‘Lord, the only thing I ask of you is the gift of a peaceful heart, so I may
faithfully follow you “on the way.’ As we celebrate the Year for Priests, the parishioners might ask me, and my fellow priests, the same question: ‘What do you want me to do for you?’ I would frankly say: ‘What I need you to do for me, for your priests, is to support priests spiritually.’ Cooperate with priests in pastoral ministry. Give priests your words of encouragement. Show priests your kindness and sincere love that may strengthen priests to faithfully walk with you and with Jesus, to love, and to serve God and his people.” As the crowd filed out after the final thanks was said, Ed Texeira, past president of the St. Vincent de Paul Conference at St. Raphael said, “This room was full of love tonight.” Parishioners went home inspired by the stories and charged by the Vocations Committee to tell the stories to their children and grandchildren so that seeds of hope will be planted for priestly vocations.
Assisted Living | Memory Care
Built on a Tradition of Spirituality and Care Services Include Spiritual Care/On-Site Chaplain, Housekeeping and Laundry Service, Resident Activity and Social Programs, Daily Licensed Nurse on Duty, and Upscale Meal Program.
Call Today to Schedule a Tour: 415.337.1339
Can I Join? Yes, we are looking for new members to join us. If you are a Catholic adult male, simply email us at ymius@aol.com or call us at 1-650-5887762 orCa 1-800-964-9646. You can also visit our website for more info n I J oi n? at www.ymiusa.org. We will provide you a brief YMI application form simp ly m a il council. us at Membership to complete and the location of the nearest YMI ius@a ol.c om or ca$4 ll or$5 us d uring [ M- F 9 a m to 5 fees are ym very affordable (about per month) pm] a t 1 -6 5 0- 58 8- 7 76 2 or 1- 8 00 -9 6 4- 96 46 . ur website for mor e info at The YMI . .visit . . . oJoin the Brotherhood! www. ym iusa.or g.
9
Located on the St. Thomas More Church Campus. One Thomas More Way, San Francisco www.almaviaofsanfrancisco.org
“Residents are the heart of our community.” Elder Care Alliance, a nonprofit organization, is cosponsored by the Sisters of Mercy of the Americas West Midwest Community & the Sierra Pacific Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. RCFE Lic # 385600270.
10
Catholic San Francisco
November 6, 2009
God’s Geese: Daughters of Charity from San Francisco to Virginia City By Patricia Smith Amid the settling of Virginia City in 1864 (then part of the Archdiocese of San Francisco), the Daughters of Charity of St. Vincent de Paul opened a vein of social services as rich as the Comstock Lode. Traveling from San Francisco by steamer, train and stagecoach, three Sisters began a school, orphanage and hospital, all of which prospered among the dust and sagebrush. Ties forged during those boomtown days link the Daughters to an unparalleled time in San Francisco history. “The Daughters were summoned during the mining bonanza,” says Sister Margaret Ann Gainey, archivist at Seton Provincialate in Los Altos Hills. “Sister Frederica McGrath left her position as principal of St. Vincent’s School to serve as leader.” As Virginia City celebrates its 150th anniversary, the works of the Daughters of Charity shine. Letters written to their Superiors in Emmitsburg, Maryland survived. Correspondence spanning 1864 to1897 binds them to San Francisco icons such as John W. Mackay, James Graham Fair, James D. Phelan and Archbishop Joseph S. Alemany. Father Patrick Manogue and Bishop Eugene O’Connell drove the notion to bring the Sisters to the thriving frontier. Years earlier, Irish-born Manogue labored as a gold miner in California. According to Jesuit Father William Breault, author of “The Miner Was a Bishop: The Pioneer Years of Patrick Manogue 1854-1895,” Joseph S. Alemany encouraged him to study for the priesthood at Saint Sulpice in Paris. The Daughters of Charity also trained at Saint Sulpice. Possibly the young priest knew of their dedication to serving the poor. Years later, as pastor of St. Mary’s in the Mountains Catholic Church, he turned to the Daughters to open a school and orphanage. The Sisters’ arrival in Nevada created a stir. “We were the center of attraction on the route at the different places we stopped,” wrote Sister Elizabeth Russell of their trek to Virginia City. Their dark blue habits and billowing starched white cornettes led the native Paiute Indians to call them “God’s Geese.” With help from generous parishioners, the Sisters moved St. Mary’s School and Asylum from a single room to a newly-constructed three story brick building quickly. Within two years, several hundred children depended on their care. “God’s Geese” took on difficult tasks that others ignored. An unsigned memoir revealed: “The first winter we passed here was a dreary one. Wood was scarce, funds low and to cap the climax there were no inside stairs. So from the dormitory to the floors below still unfinished and to the yard, we got up and down as well as we could on twenty-three steps covered with snow and ice.”
Independent Living | Assisted Living Memory Care | Skilled Nursing
St. Marie Louise Hospital, built in 1875 and named in honor of Mrs. Marie Louise Mackay, today is St. Mary’s Art Center.
A Daughter of Charity, wearing the traditional holy habit with billowing cornette, watches over St. Marie Louise Hospital in Virginia City, Nevada.
St. Mary’s School and Asylum were the first ministries of the Daughters of Charity upon their arrival in Virginia City in 1864.
Influential pioneers such as John W. Mackay proved to be ardent benefactors. As profits from the richest silver deposit in North America poured into San Francisco, Mackay founded the Bank of Nevada along with partners James Fair and James L. Flood (builder of the Flood Building). Fair served as a U.S. Senator. His daughters Tessie and Virginia built the Fairmont Hotel on Nob Hill, a monument to their father who died in 1894. As a founding member of the St. Vincent de Paul Society, Mackay replaced the wooden St. Mary’s in the Mountains Church with a commanding brick structure. Mrs. Mackay donated several acres to the Sisters for a hospital named St. Marie Louise Hospital in her honor. Mackay subsidized Lake Tahoe drinking water for use in the hospital and school. Theresa Fair donated a large iron stove for the hospital kitchen.
(OHJDQW :HGGLQJ &HUHPRQLHV 5HFHSWLRQV
KOHL MANSION
Dianne Devin 650 • 762 • 1137 ddevin@mercyhsb.com www.kohl-mansion.com
McCoy Church Goods Co. Inc. Competitive Prices & Personalized Service
In 1881, Mrs. Mackay gave Father Manogue his chalice and vestments for his consecration as Bishop of Sacramento. The Mass took place in Old Saint Mary’s at California and DuPont (now Grant Avenue) with Archbishop Alemany presiding. James D. Phelan, whose cousin Sister Rose Genevieve was a Daughter of Charity, also appears on a list of benefactors. Phelan, a graduate of St. Ignatius College (now the University of San Francisco), was mayor of San Francisco from 1897-1902 and a U.S. Senator from 1915-1921. The Phelan Building, Phelan Avenue and Phelan Hall on the USF campus all bear his name. Villa Montalvo, his Saratoga summer home, is now a center for the arts and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. “It’s truly remarkable how the Daughters connected with generous benefactors,” reports Dr. Jeffrey Burns, archivist for the Archdiocese of San Francisco. “Those relationships allowed replication of their good works in Virginia City that they sponsored following their arrival in San Francisco in 1852.” By the mid-1890’s mining activity ceased and population dwindled. An anonymous Sister recorded their final days: “Sister Baptista, the Sister Servant, was called home [Emmitsburg, Maryland] for a consultation in December 1896. She gave no hope of a revival in the fortunes of Virginia City and it was decided to withdraw the Sisters from both Institutions. The Bishop was notified…And the Sisters came away. The Pastor protested and also some of the citizens.” More than 450 citizens sent a petition to Emmitsburg to prevent “God’s Geese” from migrating. Their plea failed, but the Daughters returned to Nevada in the 1950’s to sponsor St. Teresa’s School in Carson City. Throughout 33 years of service, more than 50 Daughters of Charity ministered to the mining community. Today, only one remains. Sister Mary Angelica Olivas died while on mission and rests peacefully in the Catholic Cemetery in the desert hills of Virginia City.
Salem Lutheran Home Oakland | 510.534.3637 Mercy Retirement & Care Center Oakland | 510.534.8540 AlmaVia of Union City | 510.489.3800 AlmaVia of San Rafael | 415.491.1900 AlmaVia of San Francisco | 415.337.1339 “Residents are the heart of our community.”
300 19th Ave. at Clement, San Francisco, CA 94121
Ph. 415.752.9274 • Reservations Accepted This family-owned restaurant, serves classic Mexican fare in a warm and friendly atmosphere. Elder Care Alliance, a nonprofit organization, is cosponsored by the Sisters of Mercy of the Americas West Midwest Community & the Sierra Pacific Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. Mercy: RCFE Lic # 015600255, SNF Lic # CA020000237, Salem: RCFE Lic # 015600254, SNF Lic # CA020000442, CCRC Lic #178, AVUC: RCFE Lic # 015601209, AVSF: RCFE Lic # 385600270, AVSR: RCFE Lic # 216801868.
1010 Howard Avenue San Mateo, CA 94401
(650) 342-0924
Dinner: Tuesday-Saturday at 4pm
•
Sunday at 3pm
•
Closed Mondays
November 6, 2009
Health care reform message . . . ■Continued from cover Catholics can take specific action by writing, calling, faxing or e-mailing members of Congress to let them know health care reform must explicitly ban abortion coverage. The House measure combines bills passed by three committees in July into one piece of legislation that members were to begin debating on the House floor in early November. Floor action on the U.S. Senate bill had not yet been announced. In a memo to pastors, parochial vicars and parish associates in the Archdiocese of San Francisco, George Wesolek, archdiocesan Director of the Office of Public Policy and Social Concerns, urged parish staff to include the bulletin insert for this Sunday, Nov. 8, and/or read a pulpit announcement explaining the issue and directing people to the insert. “We are very, very strong about wanting a health care bill,� Wesolek told Catholic San Francisco. “We have been so for 30 years. However, we need to get it so that we’re not advancing federal monies for abortion. We are also concerned that the present bill does not adequately cover legal immigrants and the poor.� In the case of a working family of four earning $65,000
Jordan: Voices of peace. . . ■Continued from page 3 Biltaji echoed an earlier Jordanian king, the first King Abdullah, who addressed an essay to the American people on the eve of the 1948 Arab-Israeli war. The king wrote that the admission of Jews into Palestine portended “the most frightful consequences in bloody chaos,� and he pleaded for fairness in judging the Palestine question. Biltaji said he does not see the question being resolved peacefully today. He lamented that on both sides a divisive patriotism is taking the place of the prophecies and piety that believers in the region once shared. “Religion’s hijacked,� he said. “We come down to Earth and say, ‘Where’s Moses in all this? Where’s
a year, the present legislation would subject that family to a $5,000 annual health insurance bill, he said. The U.S. bishops have criticized the Senate measure for not explicitly barring funding of abortion coverage. The House bill also does not resolve the issue of abortion coverage. “The debate and decisions on health care reform are reaching decisive moments. We write ... to ask for your active and personal leadership to ensure that needed health care reform protects the life, dignity and health care of all,� said the president of the USCCB and the chairmen of three bishops’ committees in an Oct. 28 letter to their fellow bishops across the country. The letter accompanied the bulletin inserts urging the bishops to promote the campaign in their dioceses. It was signed by Cardinal Francis E. George of Chicago, president; Cardinal Justin Rigali of Philadelphia, chairman of the Committee on Pro-life Activities; Bishop John C. Wester of Salt Lake City, chairman of the Committee on Migration; and Bishop William F. Murphy of Rockville Centre, N.Y., chairman of the Committee on Domestic Justice and Human Development. They thanked all of the bishops for their work so far to make Congress understand the bishops’ “principles and priorities� for health care reform the Catholic Church has long supported.
This is the second in an occasional series. The first installment of “Jordan: Voices of Peace,� interviews with two Arab Catholic leaders, appeared in the Oct. 16 issue of Catholic San Francisco.
• AFFORDABLE COMMUNITY CLINIC • CLASSES FOR THE PUBLIC • CERTIFICATES IN ASIAN BODYWORK • MASTER’S AND DOCTORATE DEGREES IN ACUPUNCTURE & CHINESE MEDICINE PROUD MEMBER OF CO-OP AMERICA’S GREEN BUSINESS NETWORK VOTED “BEST OF THE BAYâ€? BY SF GUARDIAN & SF WEEKLY
450 CONNECTICUT STREET SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94107 (415) 282-7600 W W W. ACTC M . E D U
11
“We now ask you to redouble your efforts to ensure that we speak clearly, effectively and together for health care reform that protects life and conscience and reaches out to the vulnerable and marginalized who need life-affirming health care the most,� they wrote. “The bishops want health care reform, but they recoil at any expansion of abortion,� said Helen Osman, USCCB communications secretary, who helped organize the campaign. “Most Americans don’t want to pay for other people’s abortions via health care either. “This impasse on the road to reform of health care can be broken if Congress writes in language that assures that the Hyde amendment law continues to guide U.S. federal spending policy,� she said. The Hyde amendment bars funding of abortion in the spending bills for the departments of Labor and Health and Human Services and in military hospitals, federal employees’ health benefits, foreign assistance and other circumstances. A USCCB release on the bulletin-insert campaign said that the Catholic bishops have a long history of support for health care reform “based on its teaching that health care is essential for human life and dignity and on its experience providing health care and assisting those without coverage.� Catholic San Francisco contributed to this story.
Jesus? Where’s Mohammed?’ When we look at the Ten Commandments, which are the basis of the three religions, where are all the values of these stories? So this is where are now.� He concluded: “Patriotism and politics have killed not only the piety but also the prophecy that is in our hearts.�
6 650-515-1419 -Kitchen/Bath Remodel -Insulation/Weatherization -General Home Repair -
CA Lic#927761 Bonded/Insured Insured Tim@green-handyman.com
7KH 0RVW 7KRXJKWIXO 8SOLIWLQJ 6\PSDWK\ JLIW California’s premiere choice for Innovative Green Design Solutions
WKHUH DUH WKUHH WKLQJV HYHU\ SHUVRQ VKRXOG GR LQ KLV RU KHU OLIH SODQW D WUHH KDYH D VRQ DQG ZULWH D ERRN
STAY HEALTHY... NATURALLY!! ACTC M o ffe rs:
Catholic San Francisco
'HGLFDWH D 7UHH SODQWHG LQ WKH 8QLWHG 6WDWHV ,VUDHO RU RWKHU UHIRUHVWDWLRQ SURMHFWV DURXQG WKH ZRUOG WR SUHVHUYH PHPRULHV RU WR KRQRU D FHOHEUDWLRQ
2QH WUHHÂŤ 2QH OLIHWLPH RI PHPRULHV
Recycled & Reclaimed Building & Landscape Materials
ZZZ $7UHH,QVWHDG FRP
Phone (559) 801-9504 www.livinggreendesignsolutions.com
*R WR ZZZ DWUHHLQVWHDG FRP IRU PRUH LQIRUPDWLRQ DERXW WUHH GHGLFDWLRQ 5HFHLYH RII LQ \RXU SXUFKDVH E\ XVLQJ WKH FRGH FVI RII GXULQJ FKHFN RXW
A NTHONY ’ S GREEN CLEANING
Excellent References
(415) 505-1934 Insured & Bonded Lic.377061
20% OFF WITH THIS AD
Eco-directory
BEYOND THE LAWN
Unique Garden Design • Fine Landscaping Beautiful Pavers & More • Water Garden Specialists Quality Fencing and Decking • Innovative Lighting Superior Care & Services • Award-Winning Team & Offering weekly, monthly & quarterly maintenance programs.
Call 650.361.1414 | masterpiecegarden.com
12
Catholic San Francisco
November 6, 2009
November 6, 2009
Catholic San Francisco
13
Vatican honors Jesuit missionary to China, Father Matteo Ricci By Sarah Delaney VATICAN CITY (CNS) – A new Vatican exhibit highlights the life of a Jesuit missionary whose extraordinary intelligence, culture and open-mindedness helped him bring Christianity to imperial China four centuries ago. The exhibit is part of a series of events marking the 400th anniversary of the death of Father Matteo Ricci, an Italian Jesuit who spent 28 years evangelizing, absorbing Chinese culture and bringing Western science to the faraway Asian continent. The show, which opened Oct. 30 and runs until Jan. 24 in the Braccio di Carlo Magno hall in St. Peter’s Square, is titled “On the Crest of History, Father Matteo Ricci (1552-1610): Between Rome and Peking” (the name formerly used for the Chinese capital Beijing). It was Father Ricci’s scientific acumen and enthusiasm for cultural exchange that won the trust and admiration of the Ming Dynasty Emperor Wanli. The relationship ensured that he and his Jesuit brothers would have the freedom to evangelize, organizers of the exhibit explained. A proficient cartographer, Father Ricci was perhaps most appreciated for the maps of the world he made for the Chinese, who at the time had little knowledge of the other continents, said Antonio Paolucci, director of the Vatican Museums and head curator of the exhibit. The maps Father Ricci drew, as well as many of the European scientific instruments he brought to amaze and share with his Chinese hosts, are among the many items on view in the show. “Matteo Ricci went to China and charmed the Chinese, offering himself as a man of science: a cartographer, an astronomer, a mathematician,” and by bringing instruments like astrolabes and mechanized clocks, Paolucci said. “He was honored and admired,” immersing himself so much in Chinese culture that “he
1
2
This is a portrait of Father Matteo Ricci (1552-1610), an Italian Jesuit who spent 28 years evangelizing in China and bringing Western science to the faraway continent. An exhibit at the Vatican marks the 400th anniversary of Father Ricci’s death. became more Chinese than the Chinese,” Paolucci said. Father Ricci also translated many works, including a Catholic catechism into Chinese and the teachings of Confucius into Portuguese, which Paolucci explained was the lingua franca of the time. Born in 1552 in Macerata, in central Italy, Matteo
Ricci entered the Jesuit order in 1571. After years of study, he sailed to India, where he was ordained in 1580. After first traveling to Macao, in 1582 he and another priest established a Jesuit residence in Zhaoqing, a city in the Guangdong province. The order encountered difficulties and hostility over the next few years, but Father Ricci was instrumental in eventually opening more residences for Jesuit missionaries. In 1601, after overcoming many obstacles, he arrived in Beijing, where he was admired and befriended by the elite of the city. There he stayed until his death at 58. The emperor made an unheardof concession, allowing Father Ricci, a foreigner, to be buried in Beijing. Bishop Claudio Giuliodori of Macerata said that Father Ricci’s “extraordinary missionary adventure brought him to build, for the first time in history, a true bridge of dialogue and exchange between Europe and China.” In a message to the Diocese of Macerata inaugurating the anniversary celebrations, Pope Benedict XVI wrote that it was Father Ricci’s great respect for Chinese traditions that “distinguished his mission to search for harmony between the noble and millenary Chinese civilization with the Christian novelty.” The exhibit is divided into two parts. The first section highlights the Jesuit order and scientific knowledge of the time; it includes an immense painting from 1619 of St. Ignatius of Loyola, the founder of the Jesuits, by Peter Paul Rubens and scientific instruments from the 16th and 17th centuries, including astrolabes, telescopes, early mechanical clocks, and Ptolemaic and Copernican models of the earth. The second part of the exhibit is dedicated to Father Ricci’s stay in China; it includes displays of his translations and examples of documents he wrote in Chinese, Portuguese and Italian; Chinese tapestries; 17th- and 18th-century Chinese statuary; and a colorful early-20th-century altar honoring Confucius that belongs to the Vatican Museums.
3 This is a world map drawn by Father Matteo Ricci, part of a Vatican exhibit marking the 400th anniversary of Father Ricci’s death. 1. A torquetum, a sundial that shows minutes, is part of an exhibit at the Vatican on the life of Father Matteo Ricci. The device was made around 1700. 2. An illustration depicting Jesuit Father Matteo Ricci in a traditional Chinese robe hangs in the Beijing Center for Chinese Studies in Beijing, China. The 17th-century missionary to China is well-known by the country’s Catholics. Representations of him can be seen in Catholic churches and centers there. 3. This painting shows Mary drawn in the manner of a Chinese empress. The 19th-century work by Wang Suda is part of the Vatican exhibit on Father Matteo Ricci.
Ricci Institute at University of San Francisco The University of San Francisco Ricci Institute was founded in 1984 by Jesuit Father Edward J. Malatesta, Jesuit Father Theodore N. Foss, Ph.D., and Mercy Sister Mary Celeste Rouleau. The Institute traces its origins to Father Francis Rouleau, S.J., who taught at the Jesuit Theologate in Shanghai and lived in China from 1929 to 1952. Father Rouleau, along with Father Thomas Carroll, S.J., had for many years been collecting and studying materials on early Sino-Western cultural contacts at the Sacred Heart Center in Los Gatos and originally called their endeavor the Sino-Jesuit History Project. In 1982 offices were secured at the University of San Francisco Lone Mountain Campus and the project archives were moved to the new location. The day after Father Rouleau’s death in 1984, Father Malatesta, Father Foss and Sister Rouleau founded the Institute for Chinese-Western Cultural History (ICWCH) with the intention of continuing and broadening the long Jesuit history of sinological research. This was greatly facilitated by the arrival of the Chinese Library of the Society of Jesus, which had been compiled in Hong Kong by the ChinesePeruvian Jesuit, Father Albert Chan, a Harvard-trained expert in Ming history. In 1988, the newly renamed Ricci Institute for Chinese-Western Cultural History was officially incorporated into the University of San Francisco as a research arm of the Center for the Pacific Rim which was founded that year. Today, the Ricci Institute for Chinese-Western Cultural History at the Center for the Pacific Rim, College of Arts and Sciences, is a premiere global resource for the study of Chinese-Western cultural exchange with a core focus on the social and cultural history of Christianity in China.
By Carol Glatz VATICAN CITY (CNS) – The same awe and amazement for creation and the quest for truth that underlined the work of early scientists would bring huge benefits to scientific discoveries today, Pope Benedict XVI told a group of astronomers. The fathers of modern science, who included the Italian astronomer Galileo Galilei, did not limit their studies to the realm of reason, but were also motivated by a sense of wonder and the search for truth, he said. “Our own age, poised at the edge of perhaps even greater and more far-ranging scientific discoveries, would benefit from that same sense of awe and the desire to attain a truly humanistic synthesis of knowledge, which inspired the fathers of modern science,” the pope said. The pope made his remarks Oct. 30 to an international group of distinguished astronomers, including the Vatican’s own astronomers, as well as friends and benefactors of the Vatican Observatory Foundation. The modern scientific method of observation, testing hypotheses and critical analysis, requires patience and discipline and is essential if science is to benefit humanity and respect the natural world, he said. “At the same time, the great scientists of the age of discovery remind us also that true knowledge is always directed to wisdom, and, rather than restricting the eyes of the mind, it invites us to lift our gaze to the higher realm of the spirit,” he said. Knowledge is more than calculations and experiments, he said. It must also “be committed to the pursuit of that ultimate truth which, while ever beyond our concrete grasp, is nonetheless the key to our authentic happiness and freedom.” The pope said he hoped the International Year of Astronomy would help people try to experience “the extraordinary wonder and amazement which characterized the great age of discovery in the 16th century.” The year of astronomy, which runs until Jan. 10, 2010, celebrates the 400th anniversary of Galileo’s first use of the telescope to observe the cosmos. While the 17th-century scientist was condemned
(CNS PHOTO/PAUL HARING)
(CNS PHOTOS/COURTESY OF THE VATICAN)
Awe for creation, pursuit of truth benefits science, pope says
Jesuit Father David Brown, a Vatican astronomer specializing in the life cycle of stars, is pictured in front of images of the moon at the headquarters of the Vatican Observatory’s staff in Albano, Italy, Oct. 27. for suspected heresy for maintaining that the earth revolved around the sun, he was “rehabilitated” in 1992 by a special Vatican commission established by Pope John Paul II. Pope Benedict said the church has attempted since then “to attain a correct and fruitful understanding of the relationship between science and religion.” He expressed his appreciation “not only for the careful studies which have clarified the precise historical context of Galileo’s condemnation, but also for the efforts of all those committed to ongoing
dialogue” concerning the role faith and reason both play in understanding truth and the human being’s place in the universe. The pope praised the work of the Vatican Observatory staff for furthering dialogue between the church and the world of science through their research and educational projects. He said he hoped the jubilee year would lead people beyond the study of nature to the contemplation of the Creator and his love, “which is the underlying motive of his creation.”
14
Catholic San Francisco
November 6, 2009
Guest Commentary
Foul ball! Prejudice against the Catholic Church By Most Reverend Timothy M. Dolan The following is based on a commentary submitted to the nationally distributed New York Times by Archbishop Timothy M. Dolan of New York. The Times declined to publish it. It is not hyperbole to call prejudice against the Catholic Church a national pastime. Scholars such as Arthur Schlesinger Sr. referred to it as “the deepest bias in the history of the American people,” while John Higham described it as “the most luxuriant, tenacious tradition of paranoiac agitation in American history.” “The anti-semitism of the left,” is how Paul Viereck reads it, and Professor Philip Jenkins sub-titles his book on the topic “the last acceptable prejudice.” [Also see “Anti-Catholicism in America” by Jesuit Father Mark Massa.] If you want recent evidence of this unfairness against the Catholic Church, look no further than a few of these following examples of occurrences over the last couple weeks: On October 14, in the pages of the New York Times, reporter Paul Vitello exposed the sad extent of child sexual abuse in Brooklyn’s Orthodox Jewish community. According to the article, there were forty cases of such abuse in this tiny community last year alone. Yet the Times did not demand what it has called for incessantly when addressing the same kind of abuse by a tiny minority of priests: release of names of abusers, rollback of statute of limitations, external investigations, release of all records, and total transparency. Instead, an attorney is quoted urging law enforcement officials to recognize “religious sensitivities,” and no criticism was offered of the DA’s office for allowing Orthodox rabbis to settle these cases “internally.” Given the Catholic Church’s own recent horrible experience, I am hardly in any position to criticize our Orthodox Jewish neighbors, and have no wish to do so . . . but I can criticize this kind of “selective outrage.” Of course, this selective outrage probably should not surprise us at all, as we have seen many other examples of the phenomenon in recent years when it comes to the issue of sexual abuse. To cite but two: In 2004, Professor Carol Shakeshaft documented the wide-spread problem of sexual abuse of minors in our nation’s public schools. In 2007, the Associated Press issued a series of investigative reports that also showed the numerous examples of sexual abuse by edu-
cators against public school students. Both the Shakeshaft study and the AP reports were essentially ignored, as papers such as the New York Times only seem to have priests in their crosshairs. On October 16, Laurie Goodstein of the Times offered a story on the front page about the sad episode of a p Franciscan priest who had fathered a child. Even taking into account that the relationship with the mother was consensual and between two adults, and that the Franciscans have attempted to deal justly with the errant priest’s responsibilities to his son, this action is still sinful, scandalous, and indefensible. However, one still has to wonder why a quarter-century old story of a sin by a priest is now suddenly more pressing and newsworthy than the war in Afghanistan, health care, and starvation– genocide in Sudan. No other cleric from m religions other than Catholic ever seems too merit such attention. On October 21, the Times gave its ts major headline to the decision by the Vatican an to welcome Anglicans who had requested ed union with Rome. Fair enough. Unfair, air though, was the article’s observation that the Holy See lured and bid for the Anglicans. Of course, the reality is simply that for years thousands of Anglicans have been asking Rome to be accepted into the Catholic Church with a special sensitivity for their own tradition. As Cardinal Walter Kasper, the Vatican’s chief ecumenist, observed, “We are not fishing in the Anglican pond.” Not enough for the Times; for them, this was another case of the conniving Vatican luring and bidding unsuspecting, good people, greedily capitalizing on the current internal tensions in Anglicanism. On Oct. 24, an intemperate and scurrilous piece by Maureen Dowd on the opinion pages of the Times provided the most combustible example of all. In a diatribe that rightly never would have passed muster with the editors had it so criticized an Islamic, Jewish, or African-American religious issue, she digs deep into the nativist handbook to use every anti-Catholic caricature possible, from the Inquisition to the Holocaust, con-
Catholic san Francisco Northern California’s Weekly Catholic Newspaper
One More Opinion In response to Ms. Mary Murphy’s point (CSF Oct. 9) “that one of the reasons many people convert to Catholicism is that we ‘don’t’ ordain women to the priesthood,” I suggest that the basic issue is not the people who enter (or even those who leave) the Catholic Church for this reason. As some Roman Catholic women continue to believe that God is calling them to be priests and continue to believe themselves bound to obey the call, our Church – all of us – must discern what the Holy Spirit is calling the Church to do. As Gamaliel said of the Jesus movement, “...if this idea of theirs or its execution is of human origin, it will collapse; but if it is from God, you will never be able to put them down...” (Acts 5: 38-39.) We need to consider whether this development, which shows no signs of fading away, is part of God’s answer
Letters welcome Catholic San Francisco welcomes letters from its readers. Please send your letters to: Catholic San Francisco One Peter Yorke Way San Francisco, CA 94109 Fax: (415) 614-5641 E-mail: healym@sfarchdiocese.org or visit our website at www.catholic-sf.org, Contact Us
to our prayers for more vocations to the priesthood. Carolyn M. Daniel San Francisco
Faith is foundation I certainly enjoyed the article of Pete and Joanne Murphy (CSF Oct. 16) and I do agree that living a Catholic life gives a meaning to life and a stable foundation for life. My husband Al and I have been married for 64 years and I met him in 1944. He was in the Army at the Presidio and I was a nurse of St. Mary’s Hospital. He asked me to marry him six months after we met and I said yes. He was from New Jersey and I didn’t know too much about him. But I did know this, he was a practicing Catholic, and that was important to me. And our faith has continued for 64 years and for our four children, and eleven grandchildren and four great grandchildren. We believe that our Catholic faith has given us all a stable foundation for life. Elizabeth Bucci Daly City
A modest proposal The Oct.16 issue of Catholic San Francisco details the growing priest shortage without mentioning the obvious solution. Start fully ordaining many of 17,000 married deacons. Even now, 100 married, former Episcopal priests are serving as Catholic priests in the United States. More than one thousand inner-city and rural parishes have been closed and some predict another thousand are on the block. These parishes have fewer parishioners than big suburban parishes.
doms, obsession with sex, pedophile priests, and oppression of women, all the while slashing Pope Benedict XVI for his shoes, his forced conscription – along with every other German teenage boy – into the German army, his outreach to former Catholics, and his recent welcome to Anglicans. True enough, the matter that triggered her spasm – the current visitation of women sp religious by Vatican representatives – is religio well-worth discussing, and hardly exempt wellfrom legitimate questioning. But her prejudice, while maybe appropriate for the preju Know-Nothing newspaper of the 1850’s, Kno the Menace, has no place in a major publication today. lica I do not mean to suggest that antiCatholicism is confined to the pages Ca of the New York Times. Unfortunately, abundant examples can be found in ab many different venues. I will not even m bbegin to try and list the many cases oof anti-Catholicism in the so-called eentertainment media, as they are so prevalent they sometimes seem almost routine and obligatory. Elsewhere, last week, Representative Patrick inaccurate and uncalled-for Kennedy made some incredibly i remarks concerning the Catholic bishops. Also, the New York State Legislature has levied a special payroll tax to help the Metropolitan Transportation Authority fund its deficit. This legislation calls for the public schools to be reimbursed the cost of the tax; Catholic schools, and other private schools, will not receive the reimbursement, costing each of the schools thousands – in some cases tens of thousands – of dollars, money that the parents and schools can hardly afford. (Nor can the archdiocese, which already underwrites the schools by $30 million annually.) Is it not an issue of basic fairness for ALL school-children and their parents to be treated equally? The Catholic Church is not above criticism. We Catholics do a fair amount of it ourselves. We welcome and expect it. All we ask is that such critique be fair, rational, and accurate, what we would expect for anybody. The suspicion and bias against the Church is a national pastime that should be “rained out” for good.
However they have the numbers of parishioners that a Protestant minister would die for. We close them. A South African bishop has proposed that teams of fully ordained married deacons [priests] and their families serve in the un-churched, altar-less villages. A huge majority of laity and clergy would welcome an end to mandatory celibacy for Latin Rite diocesan priests. Voluntary celibacy will always be a blessed charism for many. However, that this non-doctrinal end of mandatory celibacy is not even on the discussion table is discouraging and contributes to the malaise we are all experiencing. Ecclesial experts say the North and South American bishops would join with Asian and African bishops in welcoming this change. The only thing that seems to stand in the way is the non-infallible opinion of former popes. Where is the lever to make this change? Ed Gleason San Francisco
Thoughts on health care
best in the world: Vouchers for low income persons; group plans, portability, inter-state purchases, tax deductions, medical savings accounts and risk assignment pools for preexisting conditions. Another ten million uninsured in America are not U.S. Citizens; none can be denied treatment in a U.S. Hospital, nevertheless they also should have access to health insurance, and if necessary helped with vouchers, etc. This will require ending illegal sanctuary policies that subjugate decent hard working people and families to the shadows of society and fosters their exploitation by criminals, political and social demagogues, and unscrupulous employers. Mr. Wesolek reports the Catholic Bishops and the Archdiocese of San Francisco are calling for universal health care that protects life from conception to death a “moral imperative;” and it certainly is. However, the Second Vatican Council reaffirmed that “error has no rights, but humans do.” All Catholics have a right to be wrong about universal health care controlled by government. It has proven to be morally deficient; it makes the fatal error of dismissing the “inalienable” right to life. Every country with universal health coverage admits it restricts or denies medical treatment to certain elderly, disabled, terminally ill, and newly born. Great Britain and other single payer nations use the “Quality Adjusted Life Years” system (QALY) to determine treatment based upon cost and patient age; renal dialysis centers in these countries send patients over age 65 home to die. In the Netherlands neonatal intensive care units permit infanticide by lethal injection. In 650 B.C., Spartans used a simpler system for their error; they left frail elderly and sickly infants on a hillside to die. Every year thousands of sick people leave Canada, England and European Union countries to seek treatment in the U.S. Last year 39,282 came from Canada where the LETTERS, page 17
L E T T E R S
In his commentary, “Health care reform: A Catholic priority” (CSF Oct. 9), George Wesolek, archdiocesan director of Public Policy writes: “It is a scandal 45 million Americans have no health care coverage, or inadequate coverage and access.” Indeed health care is a Catholic priority, and Catholics deserve an accurate understanding of this moral imperative. The cliché that 45 million Americans lack health insurance is incorrect. The U.S. Census Bureau reports nine million uninsured earn over $75,000 and eight million earn over $50,000 but do not purchase health insurance. An additional ten million Americans are eligible for Medicare, Medicaid, S-CHIP or employer plans, but are not enrolled. The nine million (or more) Americans that need financial assistance can be insured via options that will keep America’s health care the
November 6, 2009
Catholic San Francisco
15
The Catholic Difference
Nancy Pelosi and the claims of conscience On Sept. 28, a bipartisan group of 187 Members of the U.S. House of Representatives, led by Michigan Democrat Bart Stupak and Pennsylvania Republican Joe Pitts, sent a letter to House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Rules Committee chair Louise Slaughter. The key paragraphs follow: “Proposed health-reform legislation, H.R. 3200 … radically departs from the current federal government policy of not paying for elective abortion or subsidizing plans that cover abortion. None of the bills reported out of the three committees of jurisdiction have addressed our serious concerns about public funding for abortion. The version that was approved by the House Energy and Commerce Committee, containing the Capps Amendment, actually explicitly authorizes the federal government (the Department of Health and Human Services) to directly fund elective abortions, with federal (public) funds drawn on a federal Treasury account. Widely circulated claims that these would be ‘private’ funds are misleading; they are contrary to law and the until-now universal understanding of what constitutes federal funds. The simple fact is that under the Capps language, the U.S. Treasury will be permitted to issue checks to abortion clinics to reimburse for abortion on demand for the first time in decades. “The bill also explicitly provides for government subsidies to pay the premiums for private insurance policies that include elective abortion coverage. This, too, is a drastic break from longstanding federal policy. The Hyde Amendment has, for over 30 years, prevented programs funded by the annual Health and Human Services Appropriations bill from financing abortion.
However, H.R. 3200 bypasses the annual appropriations bills and directly appropriates funding for both the public options and the affordability credits. This means the Hyde amendment will not apply to the public option or to the premium subsidy program created by H.R. 3200. In two memos … the Congressional Research Services has confirmed that these programs will not require any future appropriations. In addition, legislation of this magnitude should include permanent language to ensure that federal funds are not used to support abortion.” The 187 Members then requested the Speaker and the Rules Committee chair to permit a clean vote, up or down, on the Stupak-Pitts amendment, which would bar all federal funding for abortion. As of late October, Pelosi, who has cut stalwart pro-life Democrats and Republicans out of the negotiations to determine the content of the health-care reform bill that the entire House is to consider, had persistently and obstinately refused that request. This is an outrage in terms of the comity and collegiality of the House: the Speaker is using the considerable powers of her office to coerce the consciences of her fellow-Members. The outrage is compounded by the fact that Nancy Pelosi regularly describes herself as an “ardent” Catholic formed by the Church’s social justice traditions. An “ardent Catholic” won’t permit fellow Members of Congress from across the political and religious spectrum an open, clean, up-or-down vote on federal funding for abortion? Where is the social justice in this? And where is the president who promised at Notre Dame to seek “common ground” on abortion? Has he called Speaker
Pelosi to urge an open vote on the Stupak-Pitts amendment? Or do both Speaker Pelosi and President Obama fear that they would lose any such vote, further aggravating their base on the lifestyle left? Do Nancy George Weigel Pelosi and Barack Obama care more about the rage of pro-abortion activists than they do about the consciences of the Members of the House—and the conscience of the American people? The period between Halloween and Christmas will likely tell the tale on health-care reform. The moment to act is now. It will be a dark day in the history of Catholicism in America if the Speaker of the House of Representatives, an “ardently” Catholic woman formed by 16 years of Catholic education, willfully blocks an open vote by the people’s duly elected representatives on federal funding of abortion. Write your Member of Congress, urging him or her to support a rule allowing an open, clean, up-or-down vote on the Stupak-Pitts amendment. Write Speaker Pelosi, urging her to let her House colleagues vote their consciences on this grave matter. George Weigel is Distinguished Senior Fellow of the Ethics and Public Policy Center in Washington, D.C.
For the Journey
Pondering the meaning of hospitality “Hospitality is the act of the recklessly generous heart.” What a great quote that Benedictine Sister Joan Chittister posted on her Web site (http://benetvision.org). Those words are my meditation for the week. Every word seems like a little gift to be unwrapped, and each word has a tag with my name on it. Hospitality, in the narrow sense of welcoming people into my home, has sometimes been challenging. Oh, I love to entertain, have a friend drop by for coffee or spend the night. But I also jealously guard my privacy and my quiet time. In the first days of my marriage, my tiny newlywed home in Anchorage seemed to be a central way station as friends journeyed in and out of Alaska. We were all young and poor, adventuresome and fairly itinerant. Initially, it was great fun with dear friends. Yet the stream of visitors became overwhelming, and I chafed at the sleeping bags piled on the floor and the late-night calls from the airport. Then there were relatives. I love our families, but I always yearned for shorter, more frequent visits rather than the yearly two-week visits we all felt compelled to make because of the cost, hassle and distance of going to and from Alaska. I silently and very guiltily began to subscribe to the adage common to Alaskans: “Fish and guests go bad in three days.”
No doubt our relatives thought the same thing as my family arrived with our phalanx of suitcases. Now my friends are all settled and their visits are indeed rare and worth savoring. And as my kids grew older, those summer trips grew fewer – and shorter. Our parents grew too old to visit and other relatives adopted a “been there, done that” attitude. When a relative arrives now, it’s an uncommon treat. I am left to ponder the meaning of hospitality – and if, looking down the long road of age and wisdom, I violated hospitality. Or perhaps I was just too young and immature to enforce my own boundaries and maintain the sense of humor I have now. Of course, let’s expand hospitality: Hospitality clearly does not just involve our homes. I cultivate hospitality at church, at work or even at the supermarket. I extend hospitality when I comfort the sick, reach out to the frightened, visit the prisoner, make my child feel loved. But then there’s that word “recklessly.” According to what Sister Joan posted, hospitality is the act of a recklessly generous heart. “Reckless” is not a word I use to describe myself. I’m measured, cautious, orderly. Should words like “generosity” and “love” be combined with “reckless”? When I’ve questioned my generosity, whether with my time, my checkbook or my home, I don’t think “reck-
less” was ever part of the test. But, honestly, wasn’t that the kind of generosity Jesus had? The image of Christ to which I often return is of Jesus making the decision to go up to Jerusalem a final time Effie Caldarola even though he knew the danger that awaited him. Now that’s reckless! There’s caution thrown to the wind. You can almost hear the disciples saying, “Are you sure it’s a good time? That seems kind of reckless.” And then there’s that word “heart.” Who had more heart than Jesus, a wild and reckless lover, giving when it seemed crazy to give? The words in Sister Joan’s post push up against my boundaries, my orderliness, my caution. They’re good fodder for prayer this week.
While Africa does need aid, that aid cannot come at the price of its dignity and self-esteem, said another cardinal. “Anything that comes from abroad, even from the point of ideas, must respect the culture and dignity of the human person,” said Cardinal John Njue of Nairobi, Kenya. Some foreign organizations promote abortion in their reproductive health programs for African women, he said. “We as a church and as Africans have great respect for life starting from conception.” Africa receives much material aid from the United States and West, yet it offers much as being an example of spirituality. One of the many cultural norms inherent to Africa is that sexual intercourse is meant for creating new life, not so much for enjoyment, said Cardinal Njue. “The imperial culture says ‘no, it’s for enjoyment,’ and pregnancy is almost a disease.” Cardinal Peter Turkson of Cape Coast, Ghana, whom Pope Benedict XVI named as president of the Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace Oct. 24, presented the 57 propositions formulated by the synod and offered as suggestions for a document the pope may write about the work of the Church on the continent. “While many of the problems involve bad government, ancient ethnic tensions, disease, exploitation by multinational companies or the cultural agenda of foreign aid organizations,” Cardinal Turkson said, “the bishops believe they cannot be
resolved without ‘a spirituality that unleashes signs on a social, economic and political level in our countries.’” He spoke out on the need for the Catholic notion of justice in Africa and the world. Stephen Kent God’s justice does not demand payment for wrongdoing “because God overlooks our transgressions ... and admits us into communion,” Cardinal Turkson said, adding that when Christians think like God does they begin to forgive one another and recognize each other as brothers and sisters no matter what their nationality or ethnicity. Thinking like God, promoting a spirituality – not a strategy with alien values – would be most welcome not just for Africa but for all countries. Such a proactive spirituality that unleashes signs is preferable to cultural imperialism.
Effie Caldarola writes a column for Catholic News Service from her home in Anchorage, Alaska.
Consider This
Out of Africa There is the bumbling, stumbling type – trying to be the “good guy,” shocked when good intentions are seen as just the opposite. Then there is the coming into a country with an agenda to impose new values. Both are examples of what is being called “cultural imperialism.” The former exemplifies what author Greg Grandin describes as a “trait endemic to Americans: a blithe insistence that all the world is more or less like us.” In his book “Fordlandia: The Rise and Fall of Henry Ford’s Forgotten Jungle City,” Grandin says this leads to “the assuredness with which all businessmen and politicians believed that the American way of life could be easily transplanted and eagerly awaited elsewhere.” An African cardinal sees the second type of cultural imperialism as much more insidious. Nations and institutions must not impose on his continent policies and ideas that fail to respect human dignity and life, said Cardinal Theodore-Adrien Sarr of Dakar, Senegal. Cardinal Sarr was among nearly 200 African bishops participating in the special Synod of Bishops for Africa, which concluded at the Vatican Oct. 25 with calls for a new spirituality to counter bad government, ethnic tensions, disease, exploitation by multinational companies and the cultural agenda of foreign aid organizations.
Stephen Kent is retired editor of archdiocesan newspapers in Omaha and Seattle, writes a column for Catholic News Service.
16
Catholic San Francisco
A READING FROM THE BOOK OF KINGS 1 KGS 17:10-16 In those days, Elijah the prophet went to Zarephath. As he arrived at the entrance of the city, a widow was gathering sticks there; he called out to her, “Please bring me a small cupful of water to drink.” She left to get it, and he called out after her, “Please bring along a bit of bread.” She answered, “As the Lord, your God, lives, I have nothing baked; there is only a handful of flour in my jar and a little oil in my jug. Just now I was collecting a couple of sticks, to go in and prepare something for myself and my son; when we have eaten it, we shall die.” Elijah said to her, “Do not be afraid. Go and do as you propose. But first make me a little cake and bring it to me. Then you can prepare something for yourself and your son. For the Lord, the God of Israel, says, ‘The jar of flour shall not go empty, nor the jug of oil run dry, until the day when the Lord sends rain upon the earth.’” She left and did as Elijah had said. She was able to eat for a year, and he and her son as well; the jar of flour did not go empty, nor the jug of oil run dry, as the Lord had foretold through Elijah.
November 6, 2009
Thirty-Second Sunday in Ordinary Time I Kings 17:10-16; Psalm 146:7, 8-9, 9-10; Hebrews 9:24-28; Mark 12:38-44 RESPONSORIAL PSALM PS 146:7, 8-9, 9-10 R. Praise the Lord, my soul! The Lord keeps faith forever, secures justice for the oppressed, gives food to the hungry. The Lord sets captives free. R. Praise the Lord, my soul! The Lord gives sight to the blind. The Lord raises up those who were bowed down; the Lord loves the just. The Lord protects strangers. R. Praise the Lord, my soul! The fatherless and the widow he sustains, but the way of the wicked he thwarts.
The Lord shall reign forever; your God, O Zion, through all generations. Alleluia. R. Praise the Lord, my soul! A READING FROM THE LETTER TO THE HEBREWS HEB 9:24-28 Christ did not enter into a sanctuary made by hands, a copy of the true one, but heaven itself, that he might now appear before God on our behalf. Not that he might offer himself repeatedly, as the high priest enters each year into the sanctuary with blood that is not his own; if that were so, he would have had to suffer repeatedly from the foundation of the world. But now once
A
s a certified advocate for victims of domestic violence, one of my endeavors is to try to educate the community about the plight of women who suffer physical, sexual and psychological abuse from a spouse, partner or relative. The statistics are sobering. Some calculate that one in three women will be the victim of at least one form of violence in her life-time. Senior women and widows particularly are vulnerable because they often live alone, out-live men, endure more years of frailty and illness, and typically survive on meager pensions and Social Security payments rather than “being well provided for” after a husband’s death. Domestic violence in California includes elder abuse, which takes a number of forms: pressure to hand over financial assets and control of property to relatives, emotional and physical neglect by adult children, paying service providers for unneeded repairs, and exploitation by banks, conservators, marketers, insurance agents, and investment advisors. In all the years I have gone to Mass, I have never heard a sermon which condemned domestic violence or elder abuse. A woman is the victim 95 percent of the time. I wonder why priests hesitate, as a clerical brotherhood, to address a topic which affects so many women. Is it because it is difficult for men to criticize one another when it comes to the treatment of women? Is violence against women considered a societal, but not a pastoral issue? According to Mark, Jesus didn’t hesitate to criticize religious leaders for financial abuse and violence against women. Jesus’ anger is directed at the scribes – lawyers who interpreted the scriptures and tradition for ordinary believers. Jesus harshly condemned their show of respectability – perhaps their long prayers of “dedicating property to God” – which was merely a pretext for economic predation. As the New Jerome Biblical Commentary points out, such lawyers could serve as trustees for the real estate of widows, and assign them-
Scripture reflection SISTER ELOISE ROSENBLATT
Vulnerable widows selves high service fees. “They devour the houses of widows, and as a pretext, recite lengthy prayers.” Some Missalettes bracket a “shorter version” of this gospel, which eliminates the words of Jesus condemning the abuse of widows. Why do editors treat a gospel of only eight verses as though it demands such stamina from a congregation that they need the option of a “shorter version”? The “shorter version” here focuses on Jesus as a people watcher. But the person he watches is not a celebrity visitor to the Temple, but a poor widow who puts in two small coins. She does not have the wealth to make a show of her generosity. Jesus honors her instead of showing scorn. Her contribution to the Temple’s upkeep could only be a gesture of the heart. She appears, at great cost to herself, at the place where the community worships God, no matter how badly she has suffered undeserved emotional and financial reversals in her life. Her small offering is enough to signal that no social humiliation, loneliness or poverty can sever her relationship with God. If one wonders whether Catholic clergy understand the real lives of women in their
congregations, the passage from I Kings about the widow of Zarephath is the “cure.” Elijah acquires intimate knowledge of what a woman’s life is like. The once respected and authoritative leader has now suffered a reversal of fortune. Powerless, vulnerable, pursued by his enemies, an alien in this foreign land, he feels the humiliation and shame of a beggar who counts for so little that all he feels he can ask for, from this poorest of women, is the merest of hand-outs – a small cup of water and a bit of bread. But even that is too much to ask of a woman who is herself starving and watching her child die of hunger. Stripped of social connections, alone, with no one else to turn to, he begs her, a single parent, to bring him some food. He does not ask for a room. There is no statement that Elijah goes home with her. The vagueness implies that the relationship between them becomes Elijah’s shelter. This relationship also becomes a school room in which Elijah learns some hard lessons about women’s lives. What is the teaching that orients him? He shares her fear about surviving the famine, and her desperate concern for her child’s life. He seems to have little to offer except his promise that the Lord will not abandon her, a promise tied to
for all he has appeared at the end of the ages to take away sin by his sacrifice. Just as it is appointed that human beings die once, and after this the judgment, so also Christ, offered once to take away the sins of many, will appear a second time, not to take away sin but to bring salvation to those who eagerly await him. A READING FROM THE GOSPEL ACCORDING TO MARK MK 12:38-44 In the course of his teaching Jesus said to the crowds, “Beware of the scribes, who like to go around in long robes and accept greetings in the marketplaces, seats of honor in synagogues, and places of honor at banquets. They devour the houses of widows and, as a pretext recite lengthy prayers. They will receive a very severe condemnation.” He sat down opposite the treasury and observed how the crowd put money into the treasury. Many rich people put in large sums. A poor widow also came and put in two small coins worth a few cents. Calling his disciples to himself, he said to them, “Amen, I say to you, this poor widow put in more than all the other contributors to the treasury. For they have all contributed from their surplus wealth, but she, from her poverty, has contributed all she had, her whole livelihood.” the constancy of his own attention to her. He cannot abandon her because he has nowhere else to go. He repeats each day a lesson on the inter-dependence of women and men. His life is tied to hers. He cannot live without her care; she cannot live without his prayer. He feels the pinch, the cramped space of women’s possibilities. Her life is measured by a single fire’s length – the number of sticks her hand can hold. Her flour is measured by a single handful in her jar. Her oil is measured by a single small jugful. He learns what limitations women have to struggle against. For a whole year, Elijah learns empathy for women as he drags his body, hunger pang by hunger pang, through a narrow trench, the impoverishment of this widow and her son. Elijah feels the desperation of this woman’s life because he lives, not as master of the household, but as a dependent who relies on her generosity and care. It is not said, only implied, that Elijah himself feels depressed, unable to go on, and physically depleted. He cannot exert any physical power over her, but must surrender to her care for him. Her own power depends on God’s provision of the miracle of the flour and the oil, appearing day by day, never enough to save up. It is only enough to sustain them both one day to the next. Elijah becomes a man who understands something of what women suffer. What is the greater miracle? God’s provision of oil and flour, or the process that makes Elijah so empathetic he understands the real life of women? The Prayer after Communion could be one Elijah prayed for himself and the woman who educated him: Lord, we thank you for the nourishment you give us, through your holy gift. Pour out your Spirit upon us and in the strength of this food from heaven keep us single-minded in your service.” Sister Eloise Rosenblatt, R.S.M., Ph.D., is a theologian and attorney in private practice in San Jose.
Spirituality for Life
The perils of safety I was raised to be cautious, physically and morally: “Be careful! Don’t make a mistake! Be safe! Don’t do anything for which you’ll be sorry!” I inhaled those words, literally, through my years of childhood, my years of seminary training, and through most of my years in the priesthood. In fact they were the last words that my father, one of the truly moral men I have known, spoke to me. He was dying of cancer in a hospital and as my brother and I left for the night, not knowing that he would die before morning, he cautioned us: “Be careful!” He was referring to our driving on icy winter roads. But this caution marked his character, his moral sensitivity, and his healthy solicitude for us, his children, and it was meant morally: “Be careful! Be safe!” This was his habitual warning.
Those words are now part of my genetic make-up. You inherit more than simple biology from your father, especially if you are lucky enough to have one who was uncompromisingly moral. And that caution has served me well. I’m grateful for it. I’ve made it through more than half a century essentially intact, physically and morally. No small gift. But that caution sometimes brings with it other things for which I am less grateful. One can be intact, but so cautious and timid that fear rather than love becomes the compass for one’s life. The occupational hazard in always being scrupulously safe is that one can easily end up like the older brother of the prodigal son, that is, rigidly faithful in all things, but judgmental, jealous, and bitter of heart, dogmatically and morally uncompromising, while envying the amoral and being
too paralyzed internally to truly dance. Sometimes a long, practiced caution in our actions makes for a heart that is more cautious than generous, more envious than affirming, and more judgmental than forgivFather ing. Sometimes too it Ron Rolheiser makes for a heart that understands love and forgiveness as things SPIRITUALITY FOR LIFE, page 17
November 6, 2009
Letters. . .
n Continued from page 14 Supreme Court has ruled; “Access to a waiting list is not health care.” These wealthy single payer nations have less doctors, less MRI and CT scanners, less beds per capita, longer waits for diagnosis and treatment and higher mortality
Spirituality for Life . . . n Continued from page 16
that must be merited rather than freely given and received. Too often too it results in a heart that is secretly gleeful when things go wrong for those who aren’t living as we are. That isn’t always the case, but it can easily be, and, speaking frankly and humbly, it has sometimes been the case in my own life. The German poet, Goethe, once wrote: The dangers of life are many, and safety is one of those dangers. For some people perhaps the reverse warning might be more appropriate. But for those of us who were raised to be good and religious persons there is a disturbing truth in Goethe’s words. Are we living too safely? Do we have the courage to look at our inhibitions, jealousies,
Catholic San Francisco
17
rates for cancer and heart disease. In Italy health officials criticize their government for not investing in modern drugs and equipment. The entire European Union, with wealth now greater than the U.S., accounts for only 16 percent of the world’s biotech research; the U.S. invests (risks) 78 percent for new drugs and technologies that save millions of lives, especially in poor third world nations- this is a moral imperative.
All Catholic advocates of universal government health care should heed the wisdom of Pope Benedict XVI: “We do not need a state which regulates and controls everything, but a State that supports social forces closest to those in need. The State that would provide and absorb everything into itself becomes a bureaucracy incapable of the very thing the suffering person needs
most: loving personal concern.” Pope Benedict rejects statist demagogues; all Catholics should also. Mike DeNunzio San Francisco Mike DeNunzio is a California Commissioner on Aging and former San Francisco Commissioner on Aging Adult Services.
and religiously-sanctioned angers with real honesty? Are our lives driven more by fear than by love? Can we enter the dance without judgment and bitterness? Do others perceive us as rigid? When is the last time we could truly forgive someone who hurt us? Are our lives really about love and generosity rather than fear and self-protection? The danger in living too safely is that sometimes when we think we are defending life we are really defending the poverty of our own lives, sometimes when we think we are defending virtue we are really defending our inhibitions and fears, and sometimes when we think we are speaking for God’s healthy concern for the world we are, like the older brother of the prodigal son, really speaking of our own hidden jealousy. The hero of the movie, Chariots of Fire, Eric Liddell, a wonderfully moral young man,
was an Olympic runner who because of religious sensibilities refused to run an Olympic race on Sunday, even though he was heavily favored to win the gold medal. It would be easy to judge his action as stemming from moral and religious rigidity. In somebody else’s case that might be true. It wasn’t for Eric Liddell. Why? Because he wasn’t driven by fear or rigidity. He was driven by love. “When I run,” he famously said, “I feel God’s pleasure.” Sometimes I ask myself that same question in relation to my religious and moral inhibitions: Does God take pleasure in my caution? Does God take pleasure in my sacrifices? Does God take pleasure in my anxieties about the world’s moral failings? Or is the Father standing with me, outside the celebration, pleading with me, as he once pleaded with the
older brother of the prodigal son, to let up a little and come inside and join the dance? I am grateful for my upbringing, despite the congenital reticence with which it has left me. It’s good to be careful. It’s a responsible and loving way to live. But I am growing more honest about its dangers. I am pretty intact much of the time, but sometimes I’m more fearful than generous, more self-protective than loving, more jealous than healthily solicitous. Sometimes caution doesn’t leave me with a big heart. Safety too has its dangers. Oblate Father Ron Rolheiser, theologian, teacher and author, is president of the Oblate School of Theology in San Antonio, TX.
Funeral Services Directory For Advertising Information Please Call 415.614.5642 or Fax 415.614.5641
Church | Cemetery | Cremation Service
Please visit our New website
www.colmacremation.com 7747 El Camino Real Colma, CA 94014 FD 1522
111 Industrial Road Suite 5 Belmont, CA 94002 FD 1923
650..757.1300 | fax 650.757.7901 | toll free 888.757.7888 | www.colmacremation.com
Madeline, Bill, Matt and Dan Duggan and the Staff of Duggan’s Serra Mortuary invite the families we have served in the past year to our
7th Annual Service of Remembrance
Celebrations of Life”
“
A Prayer Service filled with beautiful music, scripture readings, reflections and a candle lighting ceremony to remember your loved one. Sunday, November 8th 3:30pm - 4:30pm Our Lady of Mercy Church 5 Elmwood Drive, Daly City
( South Mayfair and Southgate )
Catered reception immediately following the Service 4:30pm - 6:30pm Our Lady of Mercy Church Hall
McAVOY O’HARA Co.
We invite each family to bring a favorite photo of your loved one to be placed on the Altar of Remembrance before the service.
SE RV IN G WIT H T R U S T A N D C O NFIDENC E S IN CE 1 8 5 0
Doors open at 3:00pm ~ Service will begin promptly at 3:30pm In keeping with the Holiday spirit, we ask each family to bring an unwrapped toy or canned food for the needy of our community.
E vergreen Mortu a r y
As this is a catered reception we would appreciate a response in order that we will have sufficient refreshments for all those attending.
4545 GEARY B O ULE VARD a t T E N T H AV E N UE
Questions please call: 650/756-4500
For information prearrangements, and assistance, call day or night (415) 668-0077
Parking available
FD 523
The Catholic Cemeteries
◆
Archdiocese of San Francisco
www.holycrosscemeteries.com HOLY CROSS CATHOLIC CEMETERY Intersection of Santa Cruz Avenue, Menlo Park, CA 94025 650-323-6375 PILARCITOS CEMETERY Hwy. 92 at Main St. Half Moon Bay, CA 94019 650-712-1676 A TRADITION
OF
HOLY CROSS CATHOLIC CEMETERY MT. OLIVET CATHOLIC CEMETERY 1500 Mission Road, 270 Los Ranchitos Road, Colma, CA 94014 San Rafael, CA 94903 650-756-2060 415-479-9020 ST. ANTHONY CEMETERY OUR LADY OF THE PILLAR CEMETERY Stage Road Miramontes St. Pescadero, CA 94060 Hald Moon Bay, CA 94019 650-712-1679 415-712-1679 F A I T H T H RO U G H O U T O U R L I V E S .
18
Catholic San Francisco
November 6, 2009
Marin Catholic High School dedicates Pope John Paul II student center
At the dedication of Marin Catholic High School’s Pope John Paul II Student Center, President of the school Father Tom Daly and San Francisco Archbishop George H. Niederauer are enthusiastically joined by MC students.
The new student center is Marin Catholic’s largest undertaking since the school was founded in 1949.
Archbishop George H. Niederauer presided at dedication ceremonies for the new Pope John Paul II Student Center, at a grand opening of the 2009-10 school year at Marin Catholic High School. “The John Paul II Student Center is the largest undertaking since the school’s founding in 1949, and the gift of the Theology wing by the Barbara and Bob McCullough family is most significant because of their longstanding commitment to the faith formation of young people,� said Father Tom Daly, Marin Catholic president. “The new Pope John Paul II Student Education Center is now the anchor and center of community for the campus,� the school told Catholic San Francisco. “The building now provides additional resources that enhance the learning experiences of
Marin Catholic students. Most important to the mission of Marin Catholic are the classrooms located in the new Barbara and Bob McCullough Family Theology Center where students now have a spectacular space to explore their faith.� The building was designed with the input and advice of students, faculty, administration, parents and experienced professionals and offers multi-purpose space for school liturgies, drama and the arts; improved dining options; and increased classroom space, according to Marin Catholic. The new student center includes a large assembly hall, six general classrooms, double-size music room, observation deck overlooking athletic fields and Mount Tamalpais, kitchen, weight room, and storage.
GLORY TOURS
invites you to join us on pilgrimages.
We are a wholesale pilgrimage tour company serving group leaders, organizations, churches leaders and travel agents on wholesale basis. We are dedicated to serving pilgrims, giving the best experience possible on their journeys. Once you taste our loving service, you’ll never think of going on pilgrimages without Glory Tours. So come and join us, with your family, friends and relatives. GLORY TOURS runs and operates the tour and offer one free travel for every ten paying pilgrims. We will meet or beat every legitimate offer in the market. Please feel free to contact by phone 1-866-352-5952 or e-mail: ruby@glory-tours.com or check www.glory-tours.com Glory Tours will be happy to serve you For individuals you may join the ff. public tours:
ST. CHARLES BORROMEO PARISH PILGRIMAGE TO ITALY Milan, Padua, Venice, Loreto, Assisi, Rome Spiritual Director: Rev. Fr. Moises Agudo October 20-29, 2009 (10 days) • Cost of tour: $2,800 ***************************************************************************** SPIRITUAL PILGRIMAGE TO THE HOLY LAND November 16-25, 2009, • Cost of tour: $2,490 plus airline taxes TBD ***************************************************************************** OBERAMMERGAU PASSION PLAY Germany with Rome, Assisi, Florence, Shroud of Turin, Switzerland May 6-17, 2010 (12 days) • Estimated cost of tour: $3,390 land only, Air cost: $850+air taxes TBD ***************************************************************************** OBERAMMERGAU PASSION PLAY, GERMANY w/ CZECH REPUBLIC, SWITZERLAND Berlin, Prague, Munich, Oberammergau, Vaduz, Lucerne, Zurich June 15-26, 2010 (12 days) • Estimated cost of tour: $3,390 Land only, Air cost: $850+air taxes TBD ***************************************************************************** OBERAMMERGAU PASSION PLAY, GERMANY W/ AUSTRIA, CZECH REPUBLIC, POLAND Salzburg, Prague, Krakow, Divine Mercy-Wadowice, Czestochowa-Warsaw May 28-June 8, 2010 (12 days) • Estimated cost of tour: $3,390 land portion only, Air cost $850+taxes TBD
Shown with the Bob and Barbara McCullough family are Archbishop Niederauer and Father Tom Daly at the dedication of the Pope John Paul II Student Center. The McCullough family funded the Theology center in the new building. From left: Jenny Stiles, Kristin Stiles, Father Thomas A. Daly, Jamie McCullough, Doug Stiles, JoAnne McCullough, Larry McCullough, Jeannie McCullough Stiles, Brian McCullough, Archbishop George Niederauer, Bob McCullough, Jr., Barbara McCullough, Patrick McCullough, Megan McCullough. In front are Margo McCullough and Shanna McCullough. Bob McCullough died in April 2007. Join Other Catholics, your YMT Chaplain/Priest and witness the original‌
Oberammergau Passion Play Plus Tour Germany, Austria, and Italy including: Verona, Florence, Rome, and the Vatican!
'HSDUWV -XQH $XJXVW
'D\V IURP
TRAVEL DIRECTORY
$UULYH LQ 0XQLFK *HUPDQ\ IRU DQ HYHQLQJ VLJKWVHHLQJ WRXU 7RXU 6DO]EXUJ $XVWULD ELUWKSODFH RI :ROIJDQJ $PDGHXV 0R]DUW :LWQHVV WKH FLW\Âś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ÂśV WLPH IRU DQ RSWLRQDO WRXU WR 9HQLFH DQG )ORUHQFH WKH 5HQDLVVDQFH FDSLWDO RI WKH ZRUOG ZLWK IDPRXV VRQV /HRQDUGR 'DQWH 0DFKLDYHOOL DQG 0LFKHODQJHOR 6SHQG WZR QLJKWV LQ 5RPH ZLWK VLJKWVHHLQJ LQFOXGLQJ DQFLHQW 5RPH WKH 9DWLFDQ 6W 3HWHUÂśV %DVLOLFD ZLWK 0DVV 6SDQLVK 6WHSV 7UHYL )RXQWDLQ DQG PRUH ,QFOXGHV PHDOV 7KLV RQFH HYHU\ WHQ \HDU WULS LV YHU\ OLPLWHG DQG UHVHUYDWLRQV PXVW EH PDGH QRZ 3HU SHUVRQ GRXEOH RFFXSDQF\ SOXV WD[ VHUYLFH JRYÂśW IHHV $LUIDUH LV H[WUD
LAKE TAHOE RENTAL Vacation Rental Condo in South Lake Tahoe. Sleeps 8, near Heavenly Valley and Casinos.
Visit us at
catholic-sf.org
For your local & international Catholic news, website listings, advertising information and “Place Classified Ad� Form
)RU ,QIRUPDWLRQ 5HVHUYDWLRQV %URFKXUH ZLWK )DWKHUÂśV /HWWHUV DQG 3KRQH 1XPEHUV &DOO 'D\V D :HHN
Call 925-933-1095
<07 9DFDWLRQV Providing affordable fun-filled travel since 1967!
See it at RentMyCondo.com#657
November 6, 2009
Catholic San Francisco
19
PASSION PLAY 2010
TRAVEL DIRECTORY Catholic San Francisco invites you
to join in the following pilgrimages
Presents…
Discover Switzerland, Austria and Bavaria with Oberammergau’s Passsion Play May 17 - 26, 2010 10 Days • 15 Meals: 8 Breakfasts • 1 lunch • 6 Dinners
HOLY LAND
and bonus 1/2 day in Paris
December 10 – 21, 2009
Double $4,699 (100% inclusive, air, taxes, gratuities)
Departs San Francisco 12-Day Pilgrimage
only
Highlights…Engelberg • Bern • Bear Pit • Lucerne • Innsbruck • Austrian Alps • Salzburg Mirabell Gardens • St. Peter’s Restaurant • Bavaria • Oberammergau • Passion Play
Imperial Cities
2,699
featuring Prague, Vienna & Budapest and the Oberammergau Passion Play
$
($2,799 after Sept. 1, 2009)
September 16 - 25, 2010
Fr. Don Hying, Spiritual Director Visit: Tel Aviv, Netany, Caesarea, Mt. Carmel, Tiberias, Jerusalem, Masada, Paris
Nazareth
IRELAND January 15 – 25, 2010 Departs San Francisco 11-Day Pilgrimage
2,599
only $
($2,699 after Oct. 7, 2009)
Departs from SFO 10 Days • 15 Meals: 8 Breakfasts • 2 lunches • 5 Dinners
Fr. Chris Crotty, Spiritual Director
Kylemore Abbey
Visit: Shannon, Cliffs of Moher, Knock, Croagh Patrick, Kylemore Abbey, Galway, Limerick, Blarney Castle and more.
Highlights…Budapest • Hungarian Horse Show • Mathias Church • Fishermen’s Bastion Renaissance Dinner • Vienna • Schoenbrunn Palace • Grinzing Evening • Danube River Cruise Prague • Hradcany Castle • Oberammergau Passion Play
$4,999 (100% inclusive, air, taxes, gratuities)
ITALY
Holy Shroud of Turin
France & Bavaria
featuring the Oberammergau Passion Play
April 20 – 30, 2010
July 30 - August 9, 2010
Departs San Francisco 11-Day Pilgrimage
11 Days • 14 Meals: 9 Breakfasts • 1 lunch • 4 Dinners
2,599 per person
only $
($2,699 after January 10, 2010)
Visit: Milan, Turin, Florence, Assisi, Norcia, Rome (papal Audience)
Shroud of Turin
OBERAMMERGAU plus Munich, Salzburg, Vienna & Budapest Sept. 28 – Oct. 8, 2010
Highlights…Paris • Eiffel Tower Dinner • Seine River Cruise • TGV Train •
Departs San Francisco 11-Day Pilgrimage
Strasbourg Alsace Wine Route • Wurzburg • Winery Visit • Nuremberg • Oberammergau Passion Play
3,999
only $
Double $5,629 (100% inclusive, air, taxes, gratuities)
($4,099 after June 20, 2010)
Fr. Dennis Duvelius, Spiritual Director
Schöenbrunn Palace
Visit: Munich, Neuschwanstein, Oberammergau, Salzburg, Danube River Cruise, Vienna, Budapest
For a FREE brochure on these pilgrimages contact: Catholic San Francisco (415) 614-5640 Please leave your name, mailing address and your phone number California Registered Seller of Travel Registration Number CST-2037190-40 (Registration as a Seller of Travel does not constitute approval by the State of California)
Mexico’s Colonial Jewels
featuring Mexico City, Guanajuato, San Miguel de Allende, Zacatecas, Tequila & Morelia
November 7 - 18, 2009
12 Days • 17 Meals: 11 Breakfasts • 6 Dinners
Highlights…Our Lady of Guadalupe • Pyramids of Teotihuacan • National Folkloric Ballet Performance • San Miguel de Allende • Granaditas Museum • Rafael Coronel Museum • El Eden Silver Mine • Hospicio Cabanas • Tequila Agave Fields • Patzcuàro • Morelia National Museum of Anthropology * 7 UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Double $2,189 (100% inclusive)
For a free brochure or information contact
BJ Travel @ (800) 897-5170
California Sellers of Travel #1003860-40
20
Catholic San Francisco
November 6, 2009
Music TV
Books RADIO Film
stage
Poverty books offer lessons on needs at home, abroad “THE WANDERERS” by Henry A. Garon. Orbis (Maryknoll, N.Y., 2009). 151 pp., $16. “WHAT THEY TAUGHT US,” edited by Joseph A. Heim. Orbis (Maryknoll, N.Y., 2009). 126 pp., $15. “GOD KNOWS THERE’S NEED” by Susan R. Holman. Oxford University Press (New York, 2009). 206 pp., $29.95.
Reviewed by Regina Lordan Read together, the books written by Susan R. Holman and Deacon Henry A. Garon and edited by Joseph A. Heim provide a sort of a miniseries on Christian perspectives of homelessness and poverty around the world. In “The Wanderers,” Deacon Garon has written a refreshingly realistic book about ministering to the homeless of New Orleans. A Catholic deacon, father and husband, he provides short stories about the street people he has met and the experiences he has had while volunteering at Ozanam Inn. The inn is a homeless shelter located near the heart of New Orleans’ business section and owned by the Society of St. Vincent de Paul. The stories are compelling, well-written and certainly not fluff-filled memories of changing lives and the joy that ministering brings. Rather, his stories are grimy, sometimes sad and always a realistic description of the human condition on the street. His characters symbolize drug and alcohol abuse, depression and madness. His stories often end without a sense of closure, as Deacon Garon never sees the street people again to know if they succeeded in quitting drinking, stayed out of jail, reconnected with family or found a steady job. His book covers his 28-year service to the homeless, which includes his work in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. One particular story stands out amid the rest. After the hurricane, when the inn was back up and running, a man told Deacon Garon that while he was in line outside the inn, a tour bus pulled up and its passengers started taking pictures of the men “like they were animals” at the zoo. This forced him to remember that at one time he also had felt disdain for these men. This is just one of many stories that forced him to reflect about his life volunteering at the inn. Within this theme of self-reflection, Heim’s book, “What They Taught Us,” is a collection of stories shared by Maryknoll missionaries about lessons they learned from the poor. The stories take place in Guatemala, Venezuela,
Bangladesh, Philippines, Tanzania and even Pennsylvania, to name a few places. The lessons covered several topics, including interfaith work. For example, Maryknoll Father Douglas Venne wrote about his desire to pray more when he realized that the Muslim community in Bangladesh was praying five times a day to the same God. Their prayerfulness, which at first Father Venne considered an annoyance and disturbance, became his call to prayer. The book also includes great lessons of the wealth of generosity, happiness and family in the face of poverty; one such story highlights refugee women in a Honduran camp who gathered corn to feed the starving children in another refugee camp despite their limited food supply. The most poignant story is that of “the gentleman,” a dirty, smelly homeless man in Tokyo who survived by collecting and selling scrap cardboard. The gentleman spent his last days caring for another man on the street, feeding him and sharing his meager living with him. The gentleman’s generosity eventually led to his own death. Maryknoll Father John Grimm told this story, describing the gentleman as being “without a doubt a saint.” The stories and their lessons are quite beautiful, and a reminder not only of the wonderful work the church does
abroad, but how the people the church serves are wonderful gifts made in the image of God. In contrast to Heim’s and Deacon Garon’s books, Holman’s “God Knows There’s Need” is not an easy read. Nor is it anecdotal. Instead, Holman writes like the Harvard academic she is, for, presumably, Harvard-type academics. And so, one must be in an academic mood to enjoy – and understand – her book. This is not to totally knock the book, because it has its moments. But the moments would be greater and far more frequent with a little bit more color and perhaps an accompanying professor to lead a discussion on her main points. Holman’s book explores the subject of poverty throughout time through the lenses of noteworthy Christians, such as Sts. Basil and Gregory. Importantly, her book reminds readers that poverty is a timeless issue, and Holman points this out via her exploration of ancient Christian responses to poverty. Because the topic is so scholarly and specific, Holman’s book would be great for a reader – or researcher – interested in dissecting poverty and need. Lordan is a former assistant international editor of Catholic News Service and contributor to Catholic Radio Weekly.
Saint’s meeting with sultan 800 years ago has enduring impact today “ST. FRANCIS AND THE SULTAN: THE CURIOUS HISTORY OF A CHRISTIAN-MUSLIM ENCOUNTER” by John V. Tolan. Oxford University Press (New York, 2009). 382 pp., $55.
SCRIPTURE SEARCH Gospel for November 8, 2009 Mark 12:38-44 Following is a word search based on the Gospel reading for the 32nd Sunday in Ordinary Time, Cycle B: the story of the widow’s two pennies. The words can be found in all directions in the puzzle. TEACHING LIKE TO GO SYNAGOGUES PRAYERS MONEY LARGE SUMS I SAY
BEWARE ROBES DEVOUR OPPOSITE MANY POOR MORE
SCRIBES MARKETPLACES WIDOWS TREASURY RICH PEOPLE TWO COINS WHOLE
GIVING HER ALL S
Y
N
A
G
O
G
U
E
S
D
Y
E
E
S
P
S
Y
H
Y
K
W
E
R U
B
T
C
R
H
N
L
E
G
L
E
O
I
R
A
N
A
I
N
P
R
E
S
R
S
I
Y
L
M
K
O
O
O
M
A
J
O
B
E
K
P
E
M
C
U
O
E
S
P
E
R
I
P
T
R
S
O
J
R
W
P
S
S
H
J
O
E
A
F
W
T
O
O
A
C
L
E
G
L
K
W
R
T
D
Y
I
X
P
R
O
L
A
R
E
T
I
R
T
E
A
C
H
I
N
G
A
B
W
H
O
L
E
D
E
V
O
U
R
M
© 2009 Tri-C-A Publications www.tri-c-a-publications.com
Sponsored by DUGGAN’S SERRA MORTUARY 500 Westlake Avenue, Daly City 650-756-4500 ● www.duggansserra.com
Reviewed by Brother Jeffrey Gros, FSC For 800 years a unique meeting in Egypt between the poor man from Assisi and Sultan Malik al-Kamil of Egypt, during the height of the Fifth Crusade, has been emblematic of Christian and Muslim approaches and understandings of one another. This volume surveys the multitude of accounts of this his encounter in art, literature and hagiography. Francis has become a patron of Catholic approaches to peace, prayer and reconciliation under the leadership of Popes John Paul II and Benedict XVI, and of interreligious dialogue in the work of such theologians as the late Jesuit Father Jacques Dupuis. However, the approaches to ChristianMuslim relations, East-West dialogue or even Franciscan mission have not been uniform in history. The initial accounts off the encounter in 1219 are sketchy withoutt any record of what was said in the earliestt sources, and variations in the tone given to the meeting even during the life of Francis. s. However, with history, the weight and nd content of the mythic event grow, are embelellished and given a variety of content, dependnding on the tenor of the time and the creativity vity of the artist, narrator or polemicist. In this richly documented and attractively vely illustrated study study, the author touches on the variety of ideological, political, religious and artistic voices that have taken up the tale over the centuries and filled out its implications given their particular concerns. The first part covers the first two centuries, 13th and 14th, relying on the early accounts, biographies of Francis, artistic renderings and polemical use of the encounter. In these accounts the role of the sultan varies from the wise ruler who puts pope and emperor to shame to Oriental despot. Francis’ role varies from providing a pacific option to the Crusades, denouncing the Crusaders’ ineptitude and wickedness, to the saint zealous for martyrdom, who is spared to reach greater spiritual
heights with the mystical encounter with Christ in his passion which brought about the stigmata. Toward the end of this period there are mystical visions that recount a conversion of the sultan, realized after Francis’ death under his celestial direction. The second part of the book recounts the variety of developments in the next six centuries. In Catholic iconography, the trial by fire proposed by iconogr Francis before the sultan is a dominant motif. As A Christian-Muslim tensions domimuch of Europe, the saint confronting nate m barbarous infidel becomes a focus. the ba During the enlightenment and its reacDu tion, the t saint is both ridiculed and lionized in contrast to the enlightened Oriental co the benighted despot. The role of the or th visit in legitimating the eight centuries of FFranciscan ministry in the Holy Land and its custody of the holy places is documented in detail. doc The final chapter is devoted to 20thcentury movements, including Pope ce John Paul’s 1986 interreligious World Jo Day of Peace in Assisi, its annual D ccelebration by the Community of SSant’Egidio and its gathering again at Assisi in 2002 in the wake of the tragedy of Sept. 11, 2001. While the eevent itself and those who participated intricacies of literature, art and ideology, the in it are lost in the intricaci enduring spiritual impact of Francis and the movement he initiated are a testimony to the perennial urgency of reconciliation, human witness and mutual understanding in the human community by conscientious religious leaders of all traditions and cultures. Christian Brother Gros teaches ecumenical and historical theology at Memphis Theological Seminary. For the 2009-10 academic year, he is the Kenan Osborne visiting professor at the Franciscan School of Theology in Berkeley, Calif.
November 6, 2009
St. Mary’s Cathedral Gough and Geary Blvd. in San Francisco. Call (415) 567-2020 Nov. 7, 4:30 p.m.: Festival dimension of American Federation of Pueri Cantores conference. More than 200 young singers from throughout the state will gather for rehearsal and fellowship followed by the festival concert and the Mass with Archbishop George H. Niederauer, principal celebrant, at 5:30 p.m. “All are invited to attend this worthwhile event supporting children’s and youth choirs in Catholic churches and schools,” said Christophe Tietze, cathedral music director and organist.
Information about Bay Area single, divorced and separated programs is available from Jesuit Father Al Grosskopf at grosskopf@usfca.edu (415) 422-6698. Nov. 14, 5:30 p.m.: Join us as we celebrate our annual Thanksgiving Mass for the Divorced and Separated of the Archdiocese of San Francisco.at St. John of God Church, 5th Ave. at Irving Str. in San Francisco. A potluck reception will follow, with snacks and sweets. For information, contact Jesuit Father Al Grosskopf (415) 422-6698, Susan Fox,( 415) 752-1308, or Gail Castro (650) 591-8452. Would you like support while you travel the road through separation and divorce? The Archdiocese of San Francisco offers support for the journey. The Separated and Divorced Catholics of the Archdiocese of San Francisco (SDCASF) has two ongoing support groups in the 1st and 3rd weeks of each month. There is one on the Peninsula, at St. Bartholomew Parish, 600 Columbia Dr, San Mateo, on the 1st and 3rd Tuesdays, at 7 p.m. in the Spirituality center on the main floor of the ‘school’ building. The other one is in the parish hall of St. Stephen Parish near Stonestown, San Francisco, on the 1st and 3rd Wednesdays, at 7:30 p.m. Call Gail (650) 591-8452, or Joanne at St. Bart’s, (650) 347-0701 for more information. Catholic Adult Singles Association of Marin County: “We are Catholics, single or single again, who are interested in making new friends, taking part in social activities, sharing opportunities for spiritual growth, and becoming involved in volunteer activities that will benefit our parishes, our community, and one another. We welcome those who would share in this with us.” For information, call Bob at (415) 897-0639. Dec. 4-6: Marriage Help - Retrouvaille (pronounced retro-vi) has helped tens of thousands of couples at all stages of disillusionment or misery in their marriage. This program can help you too. For confidential information about or to register call (415) 893-1005 or email: SF @RetroCA.com or visit the web site at www. HelpOurMarriage.com
Vocations Nov. 8: The Sisters of Nazareth invite young women seriously considering religious life to a retreat at Nazareth House, 245 Albion Way in San Rafael. Contact Sister Fintan for reservations and more information at vocations@nazarethhousela.org or (310) 216-8170. Wednesdays 7 – 8 p.m.: Meditation Circle at Jane d’Aza Convent, 60 Locust Avenue at Grand Ave. in San Rafael. Women 18-35 wishing to experience a time of prayer and reflection with the Dominican Sisters of San Rafael are invited. For more information, call Dominican Sister Patricia Farrell at (415) 257-4937
Support Resources Relevant to the Economy Edgewood Works: An employment support group, meets Mondays 9 a.m. – 11 a.m. and 4th Thursdays from 7 – 9 p.m. in Merry Room at St. Matthias Church, 1685 Cordilleras Rd. in Redwood City There is no cost to attend. Drop-ins welcome. Call (650) 906-8836 or e-mail edgewoodworksstm@gmail.com for more information.
Holy Cross Cemetery
San Francisco Auxiliary Bishop William J. Justice, here with Joan Gonda, Youth Minister at St. Andrew Parish in Daly City, was principal celebrant of the first annual Archdiocesan Youth Mass at St. Anne of the Sunset Church in September. “We had a great turnout,” said Vivian Clausing, Office of Religious Education and Youth Ministry for the Archdiocese of San Francisco. More than 400 youth were in attendance, she said. “Bishop Bill gave a great homily about not using texting and technology in an addictive way - very relevant to the kids.” Next year’s Youth Mass, a cooperative effort of the Office of Religious Education and Youth Ministry and the Department of Catholic Schools, is scheduled for Sept. 25 with a location to be announced. A Day of Reflection for youth is being planned for Lent. A Food Fast is scheduled to take place in March in conjunction with Catholic Relief Services. Visit http://sites.google.com/site/sforeym/Home/about/ministries/youth-ministry. Tuesdays, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.: Stress Management Group - Benefit from relaxation techniques, mind and body awareness practices, group support. Takes place at Catholic Charities CYO, 36 West 37th Avenue, San Mateo. Cost is $15 per sessionEnroll by calling Catholic Charities CYO at (650) 295-2160, ex.199. Pamela Eaken, MFTI, and Natasha Wiegand, MFTI, facilitate the sessions. The program is supervised by David Ross, Ph.D.
Pauline Books and Media Daughters of St. Paul, 2640 Broadway, Redwood City (650) 369-4230 - Visit www.pauline.org Second Wednesday of the Month, 7 p.m.: Catholic Fiction Book Club. Delve into some of the greatest Catholic novels of our times and times past. Discover the beauty of the written word and the power of literature to nourish faith. Discuss various works of Catholic literature and how their timeless themes relate to our own lives.
Taize/Chanted Prayer 1st Friday at 8 p.m.: Mercy Center, 2300 Adeline Dr., Burlingame with Mercy Sister Suzanne Toolan. Call (650) 340-7452; young adults are invited each first Friday of the month to attend a social at 6 p.m. prior to Taize prayer at 8 p.m. The social provides light refreshments and networking with other young adults. Convenient parking is available. For information contact mercyyoungadults@sbcglobal.net. Tuesdays at 6 p.m.: Notre Dame Des Victoires Church, 566 Bush at Stockton, San Francisco with Rob Grant. Call (415) 397-0113. 3rd Friday, 8 p.m.: Dominican Sisters of Mission San Jose, Motherhouse Chapel, 43326 Mission Blvd
21
reservations, contact Jeanlust@aol.com or call (415) 673-3131.
Datebook
Single, Divorced, Separated
Catholic San Francisco
in Fremont. Contact Maria Shao at (408) 839-2068 or maria49830@aol.com or Dominican Sister Beth Quire at (510) 449-7554 or beth@msjdominicans.
Trainings/Lectures/Respect Life 3rd Tuesdays, 7:30 p.m.: Rosary Prayer - Examine how the mysteries of the Rosary are manifest in daily life and pray for an increase of faith, hope and love at Dominican Sisters of Mission San Jose, Motherhouse Chapel, 43326 Mission Blvd.(off Mission Tierra), Fremont. Contact Sister Frances Mary Pierson, (510) 933-6335 or email sfmpeace3@msjdominicans.org. 4th Tuesdays, 7:30 p.m.: Prayer before the Blessed Sacrament - 7:30 - 8:30 p.m. at Dominican Sisters of Mission San Jose, Motherhouse Chapel, 43326 Mission Blvd.(off Mission Tierra), Fremont.Contact Sister Frances Mary Pierson, (510) 933-6335 or email sfmpeace3@msjdominicans.org. Saturdays: San Mateo Pro-Life prays the rosary at Planned Parenthood, 2211 Palm Ave. in San Mateo at 8 a.m. and invites others to join them at the site. The prayer continues as a peaceful vigil until 1 p.m. The group is also open to new membership. Meetings are held the second Thursday of the month except August and December at St. Gregory Parish’s Worner Center, 138 28th Ave. in San Mateo at 7:30 p.m. For more information, call Jessica at (650) 572-1468.
Arts & Entertainment Weekends Nov. 13 – Dec. 6: 24th season of Dominican University’s Fringe of Marin Bay Area New Play Festival in Meadowlands Hall, Doninican University, 50 Acacia Ave. in San Rafael.Tickets are $15/Seniors and students, $5. For times and
1500 Old Mission Rd. in Colma, (650) 756-2060 Nov. 7, 11 a.m.: First Saturday Mass, Father Brian Costello, pastor, Mater Dolorosa Parish, South San Francisco, celebrant with Mater Dolorosa Choir leading song. Nov. 11, 11 a.m.: Veterans’ Day Memorial Service, Star of the Sea Section – Outdoor Service in front of the flags.
Food & Fun Nov. 12, noon: Serra Club of San Francisco luncheon at Italian American Social Club, 25 Russia St. off Mission San Francisco. Serra District Governor, Tony Schunk, is guest speaker. Tickets are $16. Non-members welcome to join us and hear about the Serra Club and its activities. Contact Paul Crudo (415) 566-8224 or e-mail pecrudodds@aol.com. Nov. 12, 6:30 p.m.: Celebrating their 150th year of service to those in need, the St. Vincent de Paul Society honors Archbishop George Niederauer with the Frank Brennan Award for Service to the Poor. Join us in honoring the Archbishop’s compassion for the disadvantaged of San Francisco, manifested in numerous charities and endeavors. The evening begins with a cocktail reception followed by the award banquet. All proceeds support the St. Vincent de Paul Society’s programs combating poverty, homelessness, addiction and domestic violence. Tickets are $150 per person. Please call the St. Vincent de Paul Society of San Francisco for more information (415) 977-1270 or visit www.svdp-sf.org. Nov. 14, 6 p.m.: “To Planet St. Paul,” Annual Dinner Dance and Auction benefiting St. Paul Restoration Fund at Patio Espanol, 2850 Alemant Blvd. in San Francisco. Evening begins with social hour and “stratospheric auction” followed by “dinner in another world.” Tickets are $65 per person. Sponsor positions are available beginning at $250. Call (415) 648-7538. Little Sister’s of the Poor - St. Anne’s Home will be hosting its “Deck The Home” Holiday Boutique preview night Nov. 19 from 6 – 9 p.m. $100 per person, Complimentary Valet Parking provided. General Boutique (Free) and Luncheons ($45 per person) will be held Nov. 21 from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. with two luncheon seatings 11:30 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. To purchase tickets, contact Jean Terheyden (415) 922-3797. Nov. 17 – 19: St. Mary’s Medical Center Auxiliary’s annual Holiday Boutique in the main lobby of St. Mary’s Hospital, San Francisco. Tuesday is Preview Night from 4-7 p.m. with refreshments at a fee of $10 and free parking. Wednesday’s hours are from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Thursday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. A raffle and silent auction will be held with many lovely prizes. Start your Christmas shopping early by joining us for this annual event. All proceeds will go to benefit and enhance patient services. Further information can be obtained from the Volunteer Office (415) 750-5646.
Datebook is a free listing for parishes, schools and non-profit groups. Please include event name, time, date, place, address and an information phone number. Listing must reach Catholic San Francisco at least two weeks before the Friday publication date desired. Mail your notice to: Datebook, Catholic San Francisco, One Peter Yorke Way, S.F. 94109, or fax it to (415) 614-5633, e-mail burket@sfarchdiocese.org, or visit www.catholic-sf.org, Contact Us.
Business Card Directory insurance
Construction
MARCHETTI
J.B. SHEA INSURANCE AGENCY
CONSTRUCTION INC.
JACK SHEA Auto - Home - Business - Workers Comp - Health - Life 2390 - 15TH AVENUE SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94116-2502 (415) 661-4777 FAX 661-1223
(Serving the Bay Area Since 1968)
Serving the needs of the San Francisco Archdiocese Since 1969 State License 270088
SERVING THE BAY AREA OVER 40 YEARS
LICENSE # 0708733 jbshea@covad.net CELL (415) 710-1086
Boilers & Plumbing
650-588-3893
Real Estate
dentistry
Catering
RICHARD J. HUNT, G.R.I. Broker Associate
CATERING
(415) 682-8544 richhuntsr@cs.com
San Francisco 415-822-3710 Fax 415-822-3711
Homes & Income Properties Sales and Exchanges
OVER 35 YEARS EXPERIENCE 1390 Noriega Sreet San Francisco, CA 94122
T: 415 566 2222
| F: 415 566 2285 | www.drvictoriatobar.com | info@drvictoriatobar.com
Redwood City 650-366-6540 Fax 650-366-6799
www.arguellocatering.com
22
Catholic San Francisco
November 6, 2009
SERVICE DIRECTORY For Advertising Information Call 415-614-5642 • Fax: 415-614-5641 E-mail: penaj@sfarchdiocese.org
Senior Care Construction
Counseling
SUPPLE SENIOR CARE
Deborah Weisinger, PsyD
“The most compassionate care in town”
MORROW CONTRUCTION Specializing In Wood Fences
(650) 994-6892 lic. 343633
CAHALAN CONST. 1655 Old Mission Road #3 Colma, SSF, CA 94080
415-573-5141 or 650-993-8036 *Irish owned & operated *Serving from San Francisco to North San Mateo
Foundations, Earthquake Dryrot, Termite, Siding, Stucco Additions. Remodels
BILL HEFFERON
PAINTING INTERIOR, EXTERIOR All Jobs Large and Small
Auto Service HABELT’S AUTO SERVICE
Complete Auto Repair
10% Discount: Seniors, Parishioners
3865 Irving St. at 40 Ave. – Since 1964 –
Call Bill 415.731.8065 • Cell: 415.710.0584
415-664-1735
th
Member of Better Business Bureau Bonded, Insured – LIC. #819191
Hauling ➤ Hauling ➤ Job Site Clean-Up ➤ Demolition ➤ Yard Service ➤ Garbage Runs ➤ Saturday & Sunday
FREE ESTIMATES! • Fast & Affordable
PAUL (415) 282-2023
LAST-MINUTE SERVICE AVAILABLE
YOELSHAULING@YAHOO.COM
Carpet Cleaning Safe Non-Toxic, No Shampoo, Dry in Hours not Days Commercial & Residential Serving SF & San Mateo Co. St. Charles Parishioner
(650) 593-5959
Maintenance Services GARIBALDI MAINTENANCE CO. Complete Janitorial – Window Cleaning Quality Service Since 1946
“Large Enough to Matter, Small Enough to Care”
FREE ESTIMATES (415) 441-2454 www.garibaldimaintenance.com
Fully Insured
Handy Man Painting, roof repair, fence (repair/ build) demolition, carpenter, gutter (clean/ repair), kitchen/bathroom remodel, decks, welding, landscaping, gardening, hauling, moving, janitorial.
Call (650) 757-1946 Cell (415) 517-5977 NOT A LICENSED CONTRACTOR
Tree Care Removal of challenging trees Fully licensed and insured Fine Pruning Certified arborist 24 Hr. emergency service WC 5304 Insurance work Serving Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish for over 25 years
650.355.1277
Construction Vonnegut Thoreau Construction Quality Remodelers and Builders Serving the San Francisco Bay Area
Matt Joyce
415.314.8415 VTConstruct.com Lic# 903690
2409A Sacramento St., San Francisco, CA 94115 (415) 522-7393 L ICENSE PSY 18123
Specializing in work with those who are grieving & coping with loss.
lic# 582766
415.279.1266
Painting
Licensed Clinical Psychologist
painting and remodeling John Holtz Ca. Lic 391053 General Contractor Since 1980
(650) 355-4926
Painting & Remodeling •Interiors •Exteriors •Kitchens •Baths Contractor inspection reports and pre-purchase consulting
Painting S.O.S. PAINTING CO. Interior-Exterior wallpaper hanging & removal Lic # 526818 Senior Discount
415-269-0446 650-738-9295
Do you want to be more fulfilled in love and work – but find things keep getting in the way?
Inner Child Healing Offers a deep spiritual and psychological approach to counseling: ❖ 30 years experience with individuals, couples and groups ❖ Directed, effective and results-oriented ❖ Compassionate and Intuitive ❖ Supports 12-step ❖ Enneagram Personality Transformation ❖ Free Counseling for Iraqi/Afghanistani Vets
Lila Caffery, MA, CCHT San Francisco: 415.337.9474 Complimentary phone consultation www.InnerChildHealing.com
MARRIAGE AND FAMILY COUNSELING David Nellis M.A. M.F.T. Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT 1319)
(415) 242-3355 www.counselingforchristians.com
When Life Hurts It Helps To Talk • Family • Work • Relationships • Depression • Anxiety • Addictions
Dr. Daniel J. Kugler Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Over 30 years experience • Reasonable Fees
FREE ESTIMATES
BOOKS
Professional Services
(415) 505-1934 Insured & Bonded Lic.377061
20% OFF WITH THIS AD
NOTICE TO READERS Licensed contractors are required by law to list their license numbers in advertisments. The law also state that contractors performing work totaling $500 or more must be state-licensed. Advertisments appearing in this newspaper without a license number indicate that the contractor is not licensed.
For more information, contact:
Contractors State License Board
800-321-2752
Over 1million used books, DVD’s, games, cd’s and VHS tapes available for sale! Why pay full retail price when you can buy quality used (and new) products at bargain prices.
Lic. # 872560
➤ Drain-Sewer Cleaning Service ➤ Water Heaters ➤ Gas Pipes ➤ Toilets ➤ Faucets ➤ Garbage Disposals ➤ Copper Repiping ➤ Sewer Replacement ➤ Video Camera & Line locate PROMPT AND UNPARALLELED SERVICE
(650) 557-1263 EMAIL:
bestplumbinginc@comcast.net Member: Better Business Bureau
S anti
Plumbing and Heating 415-661-3707 Michael T. Santi Since 1972 Ca License # 663641 24 Hour Emergency Service
Plumbing • Fire Protection • Certified Backflow
John Bianchi Phone: 415.468.1877 Fax: 415.468.1875 100 North Hill Drive, Unit 18 • Brisbane, CA 94005 Lic. No. 390254
HOLLAND
Plumbing Works San Francisco
ALL PLUMBING WORK PAT HOLLAND CA LIC #817607
BONDED & INSURED
415-205-1235
Electrical DEWITT ELECTRIC Your #1 Choice! For all your electrical needs!
C HRISTMAS L IGHTS I NSTALLED
C ALL D E W ITT Ph. 415.515.2043
E LECTRIC Lic. C-10 (631209)
Senior Care Homecare for Seniors
Starting at $17/hr
by Accredited Caregiver Specialists Serving the SF Bay Area • Professional, Affordable, Safe • For hourly, overnight, or Live-in • Prescreened, experienced, careeer caregivers
Free in-home assessment www.accreditedcaregivers.com 650-307-3890
Garage Door Repair
Confidential • Compassionate • Practical (415) 921-1619 • Insurance Accepted 1537 Franklin Street • San Francisco, CA 94109
A NTHONY ’ S GREEN CLEANING
BEST PLUMBING, INC. Your Payless Plumbing
Unhealed wounds can hold you back - even if they are not the “logical” cause of your problems today. You can be the person God intended.
www.sospainting.net
Cleaning
Plumbing
Discount
Garage Door
Repair Lic #376353
Broken Spring/Cable? Operator Problems? Lifetime Warranty All New Doors/Motors
One Price 24 /7
415-931-1540 0% Financing Available
Shop at:
www.shopcitybooks.com
Roofing
Benicia, CA other locations in Oregon, Indiana & Texas
Healthcare Agency (415) 786-0121 • (415) 586-6748 The Irish Rose
Home Healthcare Agency Specializing in home health aides, attendants and companions. Serving San Francisco, Marin & the Peninsula.
Contact: 415.447.8463
Visit us at
catholic-sf.org
For your local & international Catholic news, website listings, advertising information and “Place Classified Ad” Form
Catholic San Francisco
November 6, 2009
23
CLASSIFIED RATES classifieds Catholic San Francisco
HELP WANTED
PRIVATE PARTY 4 lines for 12.00 Each additional line $2.00 26 spaces per line
PER COLUMN INCH 25 1 time 2 time 20 15 3 time minimum 1 inch $
$
$ $
Add .50¢ per column inch for website listing
Leave a space between words and/or phone numbers
CALL 415-614-5642 FAX 415-614-5641 EMAIL penaj@sfarchdiocese.org
CALL 415-614-5640 FAX 415-614-5641 EMAIL penaj@sfarchdiocese.org
Private Assisted Living Available
Room For Rent ROOM FOR RENT $ 645 / Month. Includes utilities. Non-smoker. Richmond District in SF. No Pets
Separate suite in wonderful home, San Rafael (Dominican area), for elderly couple or individual, all meals and services included. Cost negotiable. (415) 258-0714
415-668-2690
Room for Rent
Vocations Desire Priesthood? Religious Life? Lay Ministries? Superb Sabbatical? Jesuit Retreats? 800-645-5347 – 24/7 gonzaga.edu/ministryinstitute
Room in beautiful modern, open floor plan, Mill Valley home w/views. Shared living room, dining room & kitchen. Private room with seperate bath. Washer/dryer, street parking, shared utilities. No smoking, no pets.
$1,000/month Call (415) 324-9193
Certified Geriatric Aide CERTIFIED GERIATRIC HOME AIDE, native San Franciscan, 19 yrs. exp. seeks employment with elderly woman exc. ref. Will work overnight shifts 415-252-8312
Maui Condos For Rent
MAUI RENTAL MAUI VACATION CONDOS STUDIO, 1-BR, 2-BR NEAR WAILEA STEPS TO KAMAOLE BEACH
Pre-payment required Mastercard or Visa accepted
Cost $26
If you wish to publish a Novena in the Catholic San Francisco You may use the form below or call 415-614-5640 Your prayer will be published in our newspaper
Name Adress Phone MC/VISA # Exp. Select One Prayer: ❑ St. Jude Novena to SH ❑ Prayer to St. Jude
❑ Prayer to the Blessed Virgin ❑ Prayer to the Holy Spirit
Please return form with check or money order for $26 Payable to: Catholic San Francisco Advertising Dept., Catholic San Francisco 1 Peter Yorke Way, San Francisco, CA 94109
Call: 415-614-5642 Fax: 415-614-5641 Email: penaj@sfarchdiocese.org
Help Wanted PLEASE RECYCLE THIS PAPER! CATHOLIC SAN FRANCISCO
Tahoe Rental LAKE TAHOE RENTAL Vacation Rental Condo in South Lake Tahoe. Sleeps 8, near Heavenly Valley and Casinos.
CALL 415.250.6692 See them at davismauicondo.com
N OVEN AS PUBLISH A NOVENA
FOR ADVERTISING INFORMATION
Prayer to the Blessed Virgin never known to fail. Most beautiful flower of Mt. Carmel Blessed Mother of the Son of God, assistme in my need. Help me and show me you are my mother. Oh Holy Mary, Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and earth. I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart to help me in this need. Oh Mary, conceived without sin. Pray for us (3X). Holy Mary, I place this cause in your hands (3X). Say prayers 3 days. M.O.
Prayer to the Holy Spirit Holy Spirit, you who make me see everything and who shows me the way to reach my ideal. You who give me the divine gift of forgive and forget the wrong that is done to me. I, in this short dialogue, want to thank you for everything and confirm once more that I never want to be separated from you no matter how great the material desires may be. I want to be with you and my loved ones in your perpetual glory. Amen. You may publish this as soon as your favor is granted. M.O.
Call 925-933-1095 See it at RentMyCondo.com#657 Prayer to St. Jude Oh, Holy St. Jude, Apostle and Martyr, great in virtue and rich in miracles, near Kinsman of Jesus Christ, faithful intercessor of all who invoke your special patronage in time of need, to you I have recourse from the depth of my heart and humbly beg to whom God has given such great power to come to my assistance. Help me in my present and urgent petition. In return I promise to make you be invoked. Say three our Fathers, three Hail Marys and Glorias. St. Jude pray for us all who invoke your aid. Amen. This Novena has never been known to fail. This Novena must be said 9 consecutive days. Thanks. B.C.E.
Prayer to the Blessed Virgin never known to fail. Most beautiful flower of Mt. Carmel Blessed Mother of the Son of God, assist me in my need. Help me and show me you are my mother. Oh Holy Mary, Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and earth. I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart to help me in this need. Oh Mary, conceived without sin. Pray for us (3X). Holy Mary, I place this cause in your hands (3X). Say prayers 3 days. T. & L.B.
Chimney Cleaning
heaven can’t wait Serra for Priestly Vocations Please call Archdiocese of San Francisco Fr. Tom Daly (415) 614-5683
S I NC E 1 9 7 9
HOUSE CLEANERS WANTED
Cleaning Experience Clean Driving Record Great Pay & Benefits
415-546-8000
We are looking for full or part time
RNs, LVNs, CNAs, Caregivers In-home care in San Francisco, Marin County, peninsula Nursing care for children in San Francisco schools If you are generous, honest, compassionate, respectful, and want to make a difference, send us your resume: Jeannie McCullough Stiles, RN Fax: 415-435-0421 Email: info@sncsllc.com Voice: 415-435-1262
OFFICE SPACE AVAILABLE Approximately 2,000 to 10,000 square feet first floor office space available (additional space available if needed) at One Peter Yorke Way, San Francisco (between Gough & Franklin), is being offered for lease to a non-profit entity. Space available includes enclosed offices, open work area with several cubicles, large work room, and storage rooms on the lower level of the Archdiocese of San Francisco Chancery / Pastoral Center. We also have mail and copy services available, as well as meeting rooms (based on availability). Reception services available. Space has access to kitchen area and restroom facilities. Parking spaces negotiable. Ready for immediate occupancy with competitive terms. Come view the space. For more information, contact
Katie Haley, (415) 614-5556 email haleyk@sfarchdiocese.org.
24
Catholic San Francisco
November 6, 2009