In the Age of the ChurchPrayer2644 The Holy Spirit, who teaches the Church and recalls to her all that Jesus said, also instructs her in the life of prayer inspiring new expressions of the same basic forms of prayer: blessing, petition, intercession, thanksgiving, and praise.

The Catechism in brief

See homily of Bishop Rice on p. 12

The Mirr rVol. LIII, No. 8 DIOCESE OF SPRINGFIELD—CAPE GIRARDEAU, MISSOURI August 4, 2017

One Church, East to West: Loving Jesus, Serving Jesus, Sharing Jesus

The next issue of The Mirror will be Aug 18, 2017.Experiencing delayed USPS delivery? Sign up to receive the diocesan newspaper via Email in digital format: Contact Angie Toben at (417) 866-0841, or Email: atoben@dioscg.org.

Inside this issueOver 700 diocesan youth ELEVATE faith at Steubenville Mid America Youth Conferencesp. 6-7

Chaplains named for SCHSp. 10

The Catechism of the Catholic Church compiles the living tradition of the Catholic Church and divides it into four sections: What Catholics believe (the Creed), how the faith is transmit-ted (worship and sacraments), how Catholics are called to live (moral life), and prayer.

100th anniversary of apparitions at Fatima

July 13 prayer for peaceSt. Eustachius Church, Portageville

2 The Mirror August 4, 2017DIOCESAN NEWS

Jefferson City

On July 26, 2017, Governor Greitens signed into law historic pro-life

legislation. The governor’s signature came one day after the Missouri Senate voted 22 to 9 to pass HCS SS SB-5. The Missouri Catholic Confer-ence worked cooperatively with Missouri Right to Life, Campaign Life Missouri, and the Missouri Bishops to spearhead passage of the bill.

This new law, which becomes effective on Oct. 23, 2017, features numerous life-affirming provi-sions, including protection of the health and safety of women; states that only physi-cians licensed in the State of Mis-souri may per-form or induce abortions in an abortion facility in Missouri; en-sures that women hear medical information from a doctor before deciding whether to obtain an abortion; requires abortion facilities to have written policies for managing an emergency and transferring patients to a hospital, and more. Finally, the new law

will al-low the Missouri Attorney General to enforce the state’s abor-tion laws when local

prosecutors fail to do so.“This is the strongest

pro-life law passed in many decades,” said Mike Hoey, executive director of the Mis-souri Catholic Conference (MCC). “We are very grateful

for the work of both Governor Greitens and the Missouri General Assembly.”

The gov-ernor’s signa-ture was never in doubt, but passage by the Missouri Senate was questionable. The Senate had passed an earlier version of SB-5 on June 15 that largely focused on overturning the St. Louis “abor-tion sanctuary” ordinance. This ordinance sought to force pregnan-cy resource cen-ters and regular

citizens to aid and abet the abortion industry.

The Missouri House

kept the rollback on the “abortion sanctuary” provi-sion in SB-5 and added many other pro-life provisions. When the Senate took up

the House amended version of SB-5, opponents waged a two-day filibuster before sponsor Andrew Koenig (R-Manchester) made a motion to end debate and proceed to a vote on the bill. Nineteen senators agreed to the Koenig motion, despite a Senate tradition of rarely ending debate by calling for the pre-vious question.

The Senate then

Celebrate the 100th Anniversary

of the Miracle of FatimaBishop Edward M. Rice will celebrate Mass and lead the rosary at the following parishes to commemorate the remaining months of the 100th Anniversary of the Miracle of Fatima. At each location, the rosary will begin at 6:30 p.m. with Mass at 7 p.m.

Saturday, Aug. 19, St. Leo the Great Church, Ava

Wednesday, Sept. 13, Ste. Marie de Lac Parish, Ironton

Friday, Oct. 13, St. Mary of the Annunciation Cathedral, Cape Girardeau

Missouri Catholic Conferencehails historic new pro-life law

approved the measure by a vote of 22 in favor to 9 opposed.

Hoey credited parishes and the Missouri Catholic Advocacy Network (MOCAN) for a great deal of the success.

“There was tremendous reluctance to end debate, but I think senators realized their constituents back home ex-pected passage of this historic pro-life bill,” he said. ©TM

Bishop Edward Rice issues a thank you to everyone who participated in leveraging support for Senate Bill 5, particularly to the senators who voted ‘yes’ in support of the new law.

Missouri Senate Vote for Final Passage of SB-5

Mike Hoey

Senators voting for SB-5:

Legislator District #

Sen. Dan Brown (R-Rolla) 16

Sen. Mike Cunningham (R-Rogersville) 33

Sen. Bob Dixon (R-Springfield) 30

Sen. Bill Eigel (R-St. Peters) 23

Sen. Ed Emery (R-Harrisonville) 31

Sen. Dan Hegeman (R-Cosby) 12

Sen. Denny Hoskins (R-Warrensburg) 21

Sen. Mike Kehoe (R-Jefferson City) 6

Sen. Andrew Koenig (R-Manchester) 15

Sen. Will Kraus (R-Lee’s Summit) 8

Sen. Doug Libla (R-Poplar Bluff) 25

Sen. Brian Munzlinger (R-Williamstown) 18

Sen. Bob Onder (R-Lake St. Louis) 2

Sen. Ron Richard (R-Joplin) 32

Sen. Jeanie Riddle (R-Fulton) 10

Sen. Gary Romine (R-Farmington) 3

Sen. Caleb Rowden (R-Columbia) 19

Sen. David Sater (R-Cassville) 29

Sen. Dave Schatz (R-Sullivan) 26

Sen. Wayne Wallingford (R-Cape Girardeau) 27

Sen. Jay Wasson (R-Nixa) 20

Sen. Paul Wieland (R-Imperial) 22

Senators voting against SB-5

Legislator District #

Sen. Shalonn Curls (D-Kansas City) 9

Sen. Jason Holsman (D-Kansas City) 7

Sen. Jacob Hummel (D-St. Louis) 4

Sen. Jamilah Nasheed (D-St. Louis) 5

Sen. John Rizzo (D-Independence) 11

Sen. Jill Schupp (D-St. Louis) 24

Sen. Scott Sifton (D-St. Louis) 1

Sen. Ryan Silvey (R-Kansas City) 17

Sen. Gina Walsh (D-St. Louis) 13

Senator absent

Legislator District #

Sen. Rob Schaaf (R-St. Joseph) 34

Senator absent with leave

Legislator District #

Sen. Maria Chappelle-Nadal (D-St. Louis) 14

For more information on legislation and issues of

interest, visitwww.mocatholic.org

August 4, 2017 The Mirror 3COLUMN

ArtistsThat artists of our time, through their ingenuity, may help everyone dis-

cover the beauty of creation. ©TM

Pope’s August prayer intention

Public calendarSat. Aug. 12 Permanent Diaconate10 a.m. Ordination of Michael Fritz

and James Walter, St. Agnes Cathedral, Springfield

6 p.m. Mass at Bennett Springs Sportsman Chapel

Sun., Aug. 13 Installation Mass of9 a.m. Fr. John Sullivan as pastor

of Sacred Heart Parish, Salem, MO

Tue., Aug. 15 Back-to-school Mass for8:30 a.m. all Springfield Catholic

schools, St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish, Springfield

Thu., Aug. 17 The Catholic Center Staff Mass and meeting, Springfield

Fri., Aug. 18 Bless the new track at2:30 p.m. Springfield Catholic High

SchoolSat., Aug. 19 Feast of Mary, Queen of11 a.m. Heaven, Mass and lunch

with the Congregation of Mary, Queen, Springfield

6:30 p.m. Fatima Rosary and Mass, St. Leo the Great, Ava

Sun., Aug. 20 Back-to-school Mass,11 a.m. Catholic Campus Ministry,

O’Reilly Catholic Student Center, Springfield

Mon., Aug. 21 Catholic Campus Ministry7 p.m. Carnival, O’Reilly Catholic

Student Center, SpringfieldThu., Aug. 24 Mass as SE Correctional1:30 p.m. Facility, Charleston7 p.m. Evening of Recollection

for area parish councils, St. Mary Cathedral, Cape Girardeau

August prayer intention: For the safety and protection of all students as they return to school, particularly those away from home for the first time, may they be strong in the faith.

COME, AND YOU WILL SEEBp. Edward M. Rice

Enkindling the fire of God’s love

Some of you may already know that I have a monthly prayer intention, just like the Pope! In August, I ask each of you to

join me in prayer for the safety of all students returning to their courses of study, especially for those away from home for the first time, that they be strong in their faith.

I cannot tell you how many times parents have said to me, “My children do not practice the faith anymore. What can I do?” Unfortu-nately the statistics are not positive.

Some 41 percent of American adults who were raised Catholic say they no longer identify with Catholi-cism. In addition, some 45 percent of Catholics do not know the Church’s teachings on the real presence of Christ in the Eucharist. Now, these statistics can either overwhelm us or remind us that there is plenty of work to be done. I have said numer-ous times over the past few weeks that this is the best time to be Catho-lic! There are so many opportunities to spread the good news of the teach-ings of our faith.

So what are the solu-tions? Home life is crucial!

A recent article from Legatus Magazine (July, 2017) outlined the impor-tance of “countercultural, religious, active families.” Living the Catholic Faith in fullness of the day and age will make you countercul-tural. When embraced fully, the teachings of the Church on family, sexuality, prefer-ential option for the poor, and a host of other issues, will put a family at odds with the dominant culture. Of course, this also presupposes that our parents are active in the faith. Again, from the article, “What do parents

stress as important? Is a devotional life emphasized? Are they reading the Bible? Are they praying with their children and teaching them to have

God at the center of their lives?” To that I would add, “Are parents bringing their children to Sunday Mass?” You cannot give what you don’t have: If parents want their children to remain Catholic, they themselves must be living as Catholics. Consistently attending Mass as a family, praying, and injecting faith into everyday life are key in furthering the faith and keeping youth

engaged as Catholics.

Men and the faithWe must also address the “man-

crisis” in the Church (and culture) today: “It is the religious practice of

the father of the family that, above all, determines the future attendance at or absence from church of the children. … If the father does not go to church, only one child in 50 will become a regular worshipper. If the father does attend Church regularly, between two-thirds and three-quar-ters of their children will become churchgoers,” (Legatus).

With these statistics in mind, I am so glad we have various efforts in our diocese to engage men in their faith. We currently have “Catholic Man Night” (Catholic Ladies Night, too), “That Man is You,” “Cursillo,” as well as other parish-based efforts such as “Christ Renews His Parish” (CHIRP), and the “ACTS” retreat program. Programs specific to men, which provide companionship and brotherhood in the pursuit of Christ, is crucial to the Church, society as a whole, and families, in particular. I support these efforts throughout the diocese.

In all of our parishes and mis-sions, we will be focusing more and more on strategies to pass on the faith, with the goal of forming “intentional, missionary disciples.” In the coming weeks, I will be asking all our pastors and parish councils to take a long, hard look at parish life and to discern what enhances faith for the community and what does not. While the statistics may be grim, I see these discussions as an opportu-nity to learn new ways of passing on the faith and spreading the Gospel.

Why am I so optimistic? Be-cause we’re encouraging the work of the Holy Spirit!

“Come Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful and enkindle in them the fire of your love. Send forth Your Spirit and we shall be created. And You shall renew the face of the earth!” ©TM

CHRIST RENEWS HIS PARISH—Men from St. Peter the Apostle Parish, Jo-plin, participated in a Christ Renews His Parish (CHIRP) program this past spring. Faith enrichment programs specific to men are crucial for the Church, society, and our families. (The Mirror)

Learn ways to pass on the faith and spread the Gospel

Knights of Columbus Supreme Convention held in St. Louis

SUPREME CONVENTION—The Knights of Columbus held its 135th Su-preme Convention in St. Louis Aug. 1-3, 2017. Pictured were Fr. Rick Jones, Missouri Knights of Columbus state chaplain and pastor of St. Vincent de Paul Parish, Cape Girardeau; Joe Rosenthal, MO State Deputy, Knights of Columbus, member of Our Lady of the Lake Parish, Branson; Bp. Edward M. Rice; John Appelbaum, Past MO State Deputy (2010-12), Knights of Columbus, Arnold, MO; and Michael (Mick) Gilliam, Past MO State Dep-uty (2006-08), St. John Mission Church, White Church, MO. (The Mirror)

4 The Mirror August 4, 2017

The Mirror: Newspaper of the Diocese of Springfield-Cape Girardeau USPS Publication 117-330 Publisher: The Most Rev. Edward Rice Editor: Leslie A. EidsonProduction: Glenn Eckl Circulation/Advertising: Angie Toben, atoben@dioscg.org

Published every other week except the last week in December at 601 S. Jefferson, Springfield, MO 65806-3143. Address all communications to 601 S. Jefferson, Springfield, MO 65806-3143; Telephone (417) 866-0841; FAX (417) 866-1140; Email atoben@dioscg.org

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Mirror, 601 S. Jefferson, Springfield, MO 65806-3143. When giving change of address, state both old and new address, also old and new parish.Periodicals postage paid at Springfield, MO, and additional mailing offices. Vol. LIII No. 8 August 4, 2017 Single copy price, $0.50 Subscription: $14 per year.

Digital subscriptions available as an option to USPS delivery with paid subscription. For more information, contact atoben@dioscg.org.Copyright © 2016, The Mirror, CNA, USCCB, The Vatican, as noted. The Mirror OnLine: www.dioscg.org

“Diocese of Springfield-Cape Girardeau” @DioSCG

ADULT FAITH

‘Your ideas sound great for big city parishes, but I come from a small rural parish. Our parish doesn’t

have any activities.”Jane was responding to a point

I made concerning what the US Bish-ops said about catechesis:

In addition, learning by Chris-tian living is an essential component of catechetical methodology. The active participation of all the catechized in their Christian formation fosters learn-ing by doing (National Directory for Catechesis, 29.G).

I had just given several exam-ples of the kinds of parish activities in which RCIA teams should engage their seekers so that the seekers could learn by doing, as the US Bishops sug-gest. Unfortunately, Jane’s parish had none of the activities I used as examples.

Your parish: A center for discipleship

However, it cannot be true that her parish—or yours, no matter how small—has no activities. If you have enough people who are contributing time, talent, and treasure to keep the lights on and the doors open, some-thing must be going on.

At the very least, even tiny par-ishes have Sunday liturgy, funerals, Communion for the sick, anointing of the sick, possibly weddings, prob-ably parish dinners or socials, maybe a communal rosary, adoration, parish council meetings, maybe a choir, finance council meetings, Stations of the Cross, church cleaning and deco-rating committees, lector ministry, preaching, probably infant baptism, probably first communion, reconcili-ation services during Lent, access to diocesan workshops and retreats, maybe a quilting or knitting circle, maybe a men’s group or Knights of Columbus chapter, a priest with a story to tell, a long-time married couple with a story to tell, new par-ents or grandparents with a story to tell, access to services from Catholic Charities, fasting, maybe a Thanks-giving food drive or Christmas cloth-ing drive. … You get the idea.

If your parish exists, something is going on there.

The secret to making disciples is to get them out doing what disciples do. Your parishioners may not think

of themselves as disciples—many Catholics don’t. But that doesn’t change the reality that every Catho-lic parish is a center for discipleship. Every parish is engaged in the disci-plines of the faith.

RCIA is not schoolMuch of the RCIA process is run

like a school. We speak of holding classes and teaching a curriculum. We schedule topics and make lesson plans. But if you think back to your high school and college days, how many of those classes you took have a direct impact on your life today?

Contrast that with some of the disciplines you learned when you

were younger. My grandmother taught me to bake bread, which I still do today. Some people spent hundreds of hours learning a musical instrument that they

still play. Former high school ath-letes pass on their well-honed skills to their children and grandchildren. None of these or similar disciplines were learned in classrooms. They were learned, and mastered, by doing and failing and trying again, and again, and again until it was right.

In another document, the bishops of the world (not just the US) described the “fundamental char-acteristics of initiatory catechesis” (RCIA catechesis). They said:

This comprehensive formation includes more than instructing: it is an apprenticeship of the entire Christian life. (General Directory for Catechesis, 67)

Teaching the faithThe way to teach the faith is to

move the seekers out of the class-room and into an apprenticeship process. In a previous post, I talked about five significant moments along the way of faith during which the seekers need the support and guid-ance of the parish community.

By way of example, I’m going to list one parish activity for each of those five moments in which you could involve seekers in order to ap-prentice them in the faith. But don’t worry if your parish doesn’t do these exact activities. Look around and ask yourself what your parish does do. And then use those activities—those disciplines—to apprentice your seekers.

Feb. 9-10, 2018An RCIA workshop, “Making Disciples,” will be held Friday evening and Saturday at Holy Trinity Parish in Springfield. It will be simulcast to St. Mary Parish in West Plains and St. Vincent de Paul Parish in Cape Girardeau. Registration is $25 and can be made through the Office of Evangelization and Catechesis by Email: rbarnhart@dioscg.org or calling (417) 866-0841, on the diocesan Website www.dioscg.org.

Faith apprenticeshipTEAMRCIANick Wagner

Bringing Christ to othersHave you experienced the

beautiful liturgy on Holy Saturday, where new men, women, and fami-lies fully enter the membership of the Catholic Church? The congregation celebrates with them as they join the family of faith, further expanding the Body of Christ. However, their journey to the Catholic Church and our Lord began long before that celebration. On Holy Saturday, these men and women have reached the culmination of a process known as the Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA). They have spent months reading, discussing, and learning about all of the riches of the Catholic faith. As a welcoming community of believers, each of us is part of that process. This witness, this “evangelization,” is not a one-way en-deavor. We, too, can become energized by their witness and stories of how God touches their hearts and lives. Over the next few months, The Mirror will be publishing a series of articles about the RCIA process. The articles will describe some practical ways each of us can be a part of building up the Body of Christ in the Catholic Church of Southern Missouri. ©TM

Period of evangelizationFind one parish volunteer for

each seeker. The volunteer’s task is to invite the seeker to sit with him or her during the parish Pancake Sunday Breakfast (or your parish equivalent).

Period of the catechumenateBefore the Rite of Acceptance,

schedule a team meeting with the pastor to brainstorm best ideas for the homily. Bring the catechumens to the meeting.

Rite of ElectionSchedule all-parish retreat day

well before the Rite of Election to dis-cern who will be chosen for baptism. Ask the parishioners to come pre-pared to give a short statement about how they have seen God acting in the lives of each of the catechumens. Make the testimonies part of the retreat experience.

For those parishioners who can-not attend the retreat, invite them to fast and pray for those who will be discerning.

Period of purification and enlightenment

Be sure the elect and catechu-mens participate in the Ash Wednes-day liturgies, and include them in the intercessions. Also include the elect and catechumens in the parish Stations of the Cross devotions.

Period of mystagogyAsk some of the parish organiza-

tions (youth group, school, religious education, Knights of Columbus, etc.) to invite the neophytes to come to one of their meetings or classes to have the neophytes reflect on their experience of the Easter Vigil. ©TM

Wagner is a member of Team-RCIA. This article is reprinted with permission.

August 4, 2017 The Mirror 5ANNOUNCEMENTS

AnnouncementsParishes and organizations are invited to submit notices of future events

to be printed in the Announcements. They will be printed on a space-available basis. There is no fee.

Belleville, IL—The National Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows, will present a talk on “Caring for Our Common Home—The Environment,” Sat., Aug. 12, 9-11:30 a.m., in the Shrine Church. Presenters are Jean Ponzi, Earthworms Host, KDHX; Mike Roberts, Former KSDK Channel 5 meterologist; Dr. Peter Raven, Senior Science Advisor-Vatican’s Pontifical Academy of Science, and Vic Hamer, Founder of Give Me Water Lord. Cost: $20, pre-registration is re-quired. For more information and registration, visit www.snows.org/programs, or contact the shrine at (618) 397-6700, ext. 6270.

Belleville, IL—The National Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows will host the 11th annual “When Mental Illness Hits Home Conference,” Fri., Aug. 25, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. The presenter will be Paul Gionfriddo, President and CEO of Mental Health America. For more information, or to register, contact the shrine at (618) 397-6700, ext. 6270, or Online www.snows.org/help. Cost: $40 (lunch included).

Branson—Our Lady of the Lake Parish seeks vendors for its annual Arts and Crafts Festival, Fri., Oct. 13-Sun., Oct. 15. There will be space for 40 inside booths with space also available outside. Vendor information and exhibitor applications are available Online at www.OLLBranson.com, or by contacting the church office at (417) 334-2928. Applications, including the booth rental fee of $50, must be received by Sept. 1, 2017. For additional information, contact Janet Bostnick at (417) 230-6060, or Joyce Arnold at (417) 334-2928, ext. 103, or OLLBranson@suddenlinkmail.com.

Cape Girardeau—Saint Padre Pio Emerging Fraternity of the Secular Franciscan Order will meet at Saint Francis Medical Center, Sat., Aug. 12. Prayer in the chapel at 8:30 a.m., followed by fraternity meeting in the St. Agatha Conference Room. Learn how you can live life in the footsteps of St. Francis of Assisi. For more information, contact Shawn Asmus, OFS, (573) 204-7688, or follow us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/padrepiocape/.

Kelso—The next Catholic Man Night will be, 6:30-9 p.m., Sept. 28, St. Augustine Church. Join in an evening of Eucharistic adoration, confession, meal, and discussion. Please RSVP so there will be enough food for all in attendance. For more information, Like us on Facebook (SEMO Catholic Man Night), semocatholicmannight@gmail.com, or call Anthony Riley, (573) 837-2556.

Kelso—Join pa-rishioners of St. Joseph Parish, Scott City, and St. Augustine Parish, Kelso, as they come together on Sept. 2 in the celebration of the 100th anniver-sary of Fatima. This first Saturday celebration in St. Augustine Church will include the availability of

confession, praying the rosary at 7:30 a.m., and a Mass at 8 a.m. in honor of our Blessed Mother. For more information, contact Harmon Presswood at rangerpresswood@att.net

Oran—Guardian Angel School will hold

registration for the 2017-2018 school year after the 6 p.m. Mass, Sat., Aug. 12, and after the 10 a.m. Mass on Sun., Aug. 13, in the school library. A $240 book fee per student is due at this time. If this time does not work for you, please call the school to make other arrangements at (573) 262-3583.

Springfield—The Secular Franciscan group will meet, Sat., Aug. 26, beginning with lunch at noon (optional), then at 1 p.m. in the day chapel at Holy Trinity Parish. Contact for new inquirers is Steve Moncher, stevemoncher@gmail.com, or call (417) 861-2109.

Springfield—Holy Trinity Parish Council of Catholic Women (PCCW) will hold its Fall Bazaar Sat.-Sun., Nov. 11-12. Craft vendors interested in purchasing booth space should contact Tina Kile at tkile5401@gmail.com, or call or text (417) 827-3165; or call the parish office at (417) 883-3440. Booth space is limited, so contact us right away.

Springfield—The Friends of the Poor Walk, will be Sat., Sept. 30, 9 a.m., at St. Agnes Cathe-dral. For more information and to register, visit www.fopwalk.org. The Friends of the Poor Walk ben-efits the Springfield Area Society of St. Vincent de Paul.

Springfield—Gamblers Anonymous meets in the conference room at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish each Monday night, 7-8 p.m., and in the youth room on Thursday nights, 7-8 p.m. Both meetings are free and open to drop-ins. For more information, call (417) 894-7959.

Springfield—Sacred Heart Parish is seek-ing vendors and crafters for its 12th annual Craft Show, Dec. 1-2, in the parish hall, held in conjunction with the Mid-Town Victorian Homes Tour. For information, contact Bob Horton at rmhorton711@gmail.com, or telephone (417) 224-5790. Schedule

The next safe environment in-service opportunities will be held at the following locations:

Tue., Aug. 8 6-9 p.m. . . . . . . . . . . . . .St. Joseph, Scott CityWed., Aug. 9 8:30-11:30 a.m. . . . . . . .St. Elizabeth Ann Seton, SpringfieldSun., Aug. 13 1-4 p.m. . . . . . . . . . . . . .Our Lady of the Lake, BransonThu., Aug. 24 6-9 p.m. . . . . . . . . . . . . .Sacred Heart, Poplar BluffTue., Aug. 29 6-9 p.m. . . . . . . . . . . . . .McAuley Catholic High School, JoplinWed., Sep. 13 4-7 p.m. . . . . . . . . . . . . .St. Lawrence, MonettSat., Sep. 23 9 a.m.-12-noon . . . . . . .St. John, LickingSat., Oct. 14 1:30-4:30 p.m. . . . . . . . .Holy Trinity, SpringfieldMon., Nov. 6 6-9 p.m. . . . . . . . . . . . . .Our Lady of the Lake, BransonSat., Dec. 16 9 a.m.-12-noon . . . . . . .St. Vincent de Paul, Cape Girardeau Pre-registration is necessary; go to www.virtus.org and click on “registration” on the left or call your parish/school office for assistance; or call Rosie Francka at The Catholic Center, (417) 866-0841; or Email her at rfrancka@dioscg.org. Participants must be present for the entire training. Training sessions are for adults only. Schedules may be found on the diocesan events calendar at www.dioscg.org, or at www.virtus.org.

In order to better involve the young in preparations for the

2018 Synod of Bishops on Youth, the Vatican has released an

Online questionnaire to better understand the lives, attitudes,

and concerns of 16- to 29-year olds. The questionnaire—avail-

able in English, Spanish—can be found on the synod’s official

site: youth.synod2018.va and is open to any young person,

regardless of faith or religious belief. Here is the Web address

for the survey in English or Spanishhttps://survey-synod2018.glauco.it/limesurvey/index.php/147718

VATICAN Releases ONLINE QUESTIONNAIREfor Youth, ages 16-29

Cursillo promotes Catholics growing in holiness and personal spiritual development. The focus is on individuals becoming effective Christian leaders and taking what they have learned back into their home, work, and community.

Attention all Cursillistas and those interested in attending a Cursillo weekend! There is a woman’s weekend coming up on Nov. 9-12 and a men’s weekend on Nov. 30-Dec. 3 being held at Pinecrest Camp and Conference Center near Fredricktown, MO. If you are interested, the applications, sponsor forms, and more information about Cursillo in Southern Missouri is available at http://dioscg.org/index.php/cursillo2/.

For more information please contact Sharon Essner at smessner735@sbcglobal.net, (573) 334-0373 or Jacque Markusic at jpmarkusic@me.com, (417) 496-8288.

First Annual

BLUE MASSfor all law enforcement & first responders

Sat., Sept. 9, 2017St. Mary of the Annunciation Cathedral

during the regular 5:30 p.m. MassCelebrated by The Most Reverend

Edward M. RiceDiocese of Springfield-Cape Girardeau

BLUE MASSBLUE MASS

6 The Mirror August 4, 2017DIOCESAN NEWS

By J.B. Kelly Springfield

Drawing from the verse from Rev-elation 21:5, the theme of this year’s Steubenville Mid America Youth Conferences focused on

the power of God, His Church, and the sacraments to truly ‘elevate’ modern society and all peoples to holiness. More than 8,000 young Catholics gathered to-gether in the JQH Arena on the campus of Missouri State University, Springfield, the weekends of July 14-16 and July 21-23 to ponder that message and celebrate their faith.

Bishop Edward Rice was present for the majority of the confer-ences and offered reflections to the entire body of attendees as well as to groups represent-ing numerous parishes across the Diocese of Springfield-Cape Girardeau (see July 21, 2017 edition of The Mirror for photos and the text of his ‘baptismal renewal’ message given at the conferences).

He encouraged all of the youth of the diocese to attend the conferences, and this year more than 700 Catholic youth from across southern Missouri were renewed and energized at Steubenville.

Gregory Kelly, a recent graduate of Springfield Catholic High School, has been to several of the conferences in years past but commented that the experience “never gets old” for him.

“Steubenville gave me a lift in my faith and spiritual life as it always has,” Kelly said, “and it was an awesome thing to experience it with thousands of youth just like me who need the same ‘elevation’ in their own lives.”

Workshop sessions included sepa-rate talks for the young men and young ladies on ways in which they can better enrich their faith through embracing the sacraments of the Church and not be ‘conformed’ to the modern, secular culture, as well as joint session topics on how to foster a better prayer life and

2017 Steubenville Youth Conferences‘Behold, I make all things new …’

50,000+ Catholic teens attended 25 Steubenville youth conferences this summer.

ELEVATE theme message, based on Rev 21:5,‘Behold, I make all things new’

From His throne in heaven to the depths of your heart, these words of Jesus are an invitation for you to receive the new life that He alone can give. He is longing to elevate your life above the things of this world—to help you overcome fear, anxiety, confusion, and doubt. He wants to break the things that hold you down and give you freedom from sin. He is calling you to follow Him and en-ter into a transforming experience with His love, grace, and mercy! He can make you new!

ADORATION—The Eucharistic Procession and Adoration on Saturday evening, July 22, was a powerful experience as 4,000 people were silent before our Lord in the Eucharist. (Photo by J.B. Kelly/The Mirror)

ELEVATE IN FAITH—Scenes from ‘opening night’ festivities of the Steubenville Mid-America Conferences on Fri., July 14, at JQH Arena in Springfield, including music by Adam Bitter. (Photo by J.B. Kelly/The Mirror)

SEMINARIANS—Diocese of Springfield-Cape Girardeau sem-inarians Daniel Belken, Andrew Williams, Nick Zummo, and Charles Peirano prayed with Bp. Edward Rice and diocesan youth on the morning of July 15. (Photo by J.B. Kelly/The Mirror)

WITNESS—Brice Jan-sen (left) of St. John Parish in Leopold par-ticipated in the Steu-benville LEAD pro-gram—an ‘immersion in Catholic teachings on leadership, evange-lization, and disciple-ship’—in the days lead-ing up to the weekend conferences held in Springfield. She spoke July 15, about an expe-rience she had in Adora-tion when “everything came into focus” as she looked upon the Lord in the Blessed Sacrament. (Photo by J.B. Kelly/The Mirror)

Over 700 diocesan youth attended one of two weekend events

August 4, 2017 The Mirror 7DIOCESAN NEWS

‘elevate’ social media to be a tool for evangelization rather than much of the negativity that can be found there. Each weekend conference was highlighted by the celebration of Mass on Saturday and Sunday mornings, and by a Eucharistic Procession and periods of Adoration on Saturday evening. Opportunities for the sacrament of penance and periods of vocational discernment rounded out the experience. Fantastic music punctuated the entire weekend.

‘What if we become blind to the life that God has in store?’

Prior to the Eucharistic Procession in JQH Arena on Saturday evening, July

15, speaker Katie Hartfiel of-fered a reflection based upon the Gospel account of Bartimae-us, a blind man, encountering Jesus and being “made new,” being healed by Jesus (Mark 10:46-52). Hartfiel pointed out “frantic emotion” experienced by Bartimaeus upon the Lord coming into his midst, and reflected on “the face of Jesus” being the first thing seen by Bartimaeus upon the Lord heal-ing his blindness.

“When (Bartimaeus) sees that face of Jesus, that’s what changes everything for him,” she said. “It’s not so

much about the fact that his eyes finally worked, as it is about the fact that his heart finally worked.”

“It’s not only that he could live a life with sight, but that he could see a life that was worth living,” Hartfiel said. “He expe-rienced a new life, but really what changed for him was a personal encounter with the person of Jesus Christ … he found what his heart was really longing for.”

Listen to more of the conference talks and Mass homilies by visiting steubystl365.com and clicking on the “TALKS” tab. More information about the Steubenville Conferences, an outreach of Franciscan University of Steubenville that also offers events for adults, can be found at steubenvilleconferences.com. ©TM

2017 Steubenville Youth Conferences‘Behold, I make all things new …’

50,000+ Catholic teens attended 25 Steubenville youth conferences this summer.

ELEVATE theme message, based on Rev 21:5,‘Behold, I make all things new’

From His throne in heaven to the depths of your heart, these words of Jesus are an invitation for you to receive the new life that He alone can give. He is longing to elevate your life above the things of this world—to help you overcome fear, anxiety, confusion, and doubt. He wants to break the things that hold you down and give you freedom from sin. He is calling you to follow Him and en-ter into a transforming experience with His love, grace, and mercy! He can make you new!

A conversion storyI didn’t want to go to Steu-

benville! I have a million things to do to prepare to move and sell our house, but Johnna, the leader of our group from St. Lawrence, would not let me out of it. I have been comfort-ably asleep in my faith for months. Before Easter, I began my first struggle with my relationship with God. I cannot explain the emptiness: I sat in Mass, going through the mo-tions and feeling noth-ing. I felt dead and empty inside. I have been unable to pray for months, I have tried and it felt so fake and superficial.

I quit going to Mass around Easter. I allowed myself to believe that it was a human relationship thing, like it was the people around me causing my distance. A few weeks ago, I started dreaming about con-fession, and attending Mass. But I continued to let the distance to

allow the darkness to overshadow my soul’s true desire.

I was waiting … to “get to Ari-zona.” I had convinced myself that the physical change of location would “fix” things. Oh how I have

underestimated the power of the Holy Spirit. What damage had I allowed in my family by denying them the Eucharist. I have allowed human interac-tions, and pain to separate me from my true Father.

I didn’t want to go to Steubenville, but I did. And my Holy Fa-ther was waiting to greet me. Through confession, hours of Adoration before the Blessed Sacrament, so much prayer, and the Mass, I was able to recon-cile my relationship with

God and his Church.It was so easy to turn away

from the faith. Society promotes and accepts me so much more openly when I allow the darkness in and put my faith on the back

burner. But it hurts so much, every part of my life has suffered. There is a distance in all of my relationships that is hurtful. People have turned away from me, using my faith as an excuse. Some have turned away be-cause of the person I have become through the separation.

I will do my best to pray and stay reconciled. Most of all, I will pray to remember that although the Church is made up of sinful human beings, I cannot allow my sin or the sin of others to define or change my relationship with God or the Church. I am so glad to have reconciled and be back in commu-nion with our church.

Michelle BrowningSt. Lawrence Parish, Monett, MO

It’s good to be back home

It’s so lonely to try to live life without faith. I was miserable. It’s good to be back home.

MALE DISCIPLESHIP—Musician and evangelist Kyle Heimann gave a talk to young men on the topic of ‘slaying the giants,’ encouraging his listeners to ‘draw strength’ from the sacraments of the Church —especially confession and the Eucharist—to overcome temptations as well as to increase faith. (Photo by J.B. Kelly/The Mirror)

YOUTH—Gregory Kelly, a recent graduate of Springfield Catholic High School, attended the Steubenville Conferences in Springfield with the youth of St. Joseph Parish Springfield. Kelly joined several hundred fellow diocesan youth for a talk by Bp. Edward Rice the morning of Sat., July 22. (Photo by J.B. Kelly/The Mirror)

THE GIFT OF BAPTISM—Bishop Edward Rice told the youth dur-ing a brief reflection on Saturday evening, July 22, that “the greatest dignity that we have is to be a child of God. We are His beloved chil-dren, and when God looks down on each one of you, you make Him smile!” He then led all those gath-ered in a renewal of baptismal promises. (Photo by J.B. Kelly/The Mirror)

8 The Mirror August 4, 2017DIOCESAN NEWS

Pondering life as a Sister?The Sisters of the Living Word, the Chicago Archdiocesan Vocation Association (CAVA), and Sacred Heart Southern Mis-sions (SHSM) are jointly hosting:

Hands-ON + Hearts-INA discernment experience for women in Holly Springs, Mississippi

2017 Dates: August 29- Sept. 1 • September 18-22

Accompanied by Vocation Ministers, the Monday through Friday experience provides a hands-on opportunity to assist those in need while discerning life as a sister. Attendees will reside with sisters from various communities. Service projects include:

• tutoring children • assisting at a food pantry • cleaning homes for the elderly • repairing damaged homes • serving meals at a soup kitchen.

The only costs to attend are the travel to and from Mississippi.

Applicants need to book a spot one month prior to the start of a week-long event. To learn more about this opportunity to discern life as a sister, contact: Sr. Sharon Glumb, SLW, sglumb@slw.org; (847) 577-5972 ext. 233 (office); (601) 291-6738 (cell).

Six week course ‘Coping with Life Alone’The BEGINNING EXPERIENCE of Springfield is offering a six (6) week classes—“Coping with Life Alone” designed to help individuals work

through the trauma of losing a spouse through death, divorce, or separation.

When: Six (6) Thursdays, beginning Aug. 24, 6:30 p.m.Where: St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church 2200 W. Republic Rd., Springfield, MOCost: $20 Scholarships are available (No one is excluded because of inability to pay)

For information contact:Leigh Ann, (417) 229-2676;Diane, (870) 688-8829; Donna, (417) 581-1317

Vitae Foundation Springfield event features Lt. Col. Oliver NorthUS Sen. Roy Blunt to be awarded for pro-life leadership

Jefferson City

Lieutenant Colonel Oliver North is a combat decorated Marine, #1 New York Times best-selling author, and the

host of “War Stories” on the Fox News Channel. He will be the key-note speaker at the Vitae Founda-tion’s Springfield Pro-Life Event at 7 p.m. on Thu., Aug. 31, at the Morris Conservation Center.

The event raises funds to promote a culture of life and to help educate women facing un-planned pregnancies about resources

available which can assist them in making an informed deci-sion. Vitae’s Right Brain research and messaging fuels the digital strate-gies that help Pregnancy Help Centers reach women needing their assistance.

Lt. Col. North has been a long-time supporter of Vitae and its mis-sion to save lives.

“Vitae’s mission to educate and encourage a greater respect for human life and reduce the number of abortions is succeeding,” Lt. Col. North said. “Their concept of using media to advance this goal is simply

brilliant. Vitae’s done the research; they know the message; and they’ve developed the means and know what it takes to reach women … and therefore save the lives of the unborn.”

A 22-year Marine veteran, Lt. Col. North’s awards for service in combat include the Silver Star, the Bronze Star for valor, and two Purple Hearts. During the Reagan admin-istration, Lt. Col. North was the US government’s counter-terrorism coordinator. He played a key role in the rescue of 804 medical students on the Island of Grenada and in the daring capture of hijackers on the Achille Lauro. President Ronald Reagan described him as “an Ameri-can hero.” North’s Freedom Alliance provides college scholarships for the sons and daughters of service mem-bers killed in action.

“Not only will it be an evening with one of the most captivating speakers you’ll ever hear,” said Anne

Carmichael, Vitae Executive Market Director. “We are also honoring US Senator Roy Blunt for being a cham-pion for Life in the United States Senate.”

Reservations will be accepted Online at www.vitaefoundation.org/events or by calling (573) 634-4316. The registration fee is $50 per person and $25 is tax-deductible. Seating is limited, so make your reservations soon. ©TM

Vitae Foundation is a national non-profit organization which uses digital media campaigns to reach women facing unplanned pregnancies. Vitae uses Right Brain research and messaging to promote a culture of life. Vitae’s digital marketing includes Internet keyword and display advertising, Web-site development and search engine optimization. Vitae’s presence in the Springfield media market has included ads on television, radio, billboards, bus benches, and campus coupon books. Vitae ads are currently running on Springfield’s KTXR Radio and all St. Louis Cardinals Radio Network stations; KICK Radio and all KC Royals Radio Network sta-tions; and KWTO Radio and all Missouri Tiger Net-work stations during football and basketball games.

Lt. Col. North

August 4, 2017 The Mirror 9DIOCESAN NEWS/LETTER TO EDITOR

ALL SCHOOL REUNIONSt. Joseph Alumni, Scott City

Nov. 11, 2017 KC Hall in Scott City

COST: The cost of $20 per person will include a meal and dance. ITINERARY: 3 p.m. Meet & Mingle; 5 p.m. Meal, and 7:-10:30 p.m. Dance. Must be 21 to attend. DANCE: The band will be Electric 107’s (formerly known as Third Wheel). They play classic rock, southern rock, country and a variety of other genres. PICTURES FOR VIDEO: text or Email your pictures of St Joseph events to Sherry (Kern) Thomas, (573) 225-5586; Joyce (Dees) Cliff, (573) 318-6683; or Leslie (Stubenrauch) Simmons, (573) 579-3004. Email: lascpaco@gmail.com. FACEBOOK: Add yourself to the group “St Joseph Alumni (Catholic Grade School-Scott City MO)” so that you receive notice of the meetings we will have at least monthly. Everyone is welcome to attend to bring ideas, pictures, history, information, etc.PAYMENT: Because this is the first year of the reunion, we have NO money. Therefore, your prompt payment will be appreciated. We are required to place deposits on the venue, meal, and band in August. Please mail a check for $20 per person including your address and phone number to:

St. Joseph School Reunion, Jay Simmons, Secretary/TreasurerPO Box 2017, Cape Girardeau MO 63702-2017

www.ccsomo.org

Chief Development OfficerCatholic Charities of Southern Missouri (CCSOMO) seeks a dynamic, enthusiastic, passionate self-starter for its Chief Development Officer who will build and oversee an exemplary development program. The CDO will build relationships and secure major gifts, as well as lead the development team in planning and implementing fundraising and special events.

Chief Program DirectorCCSOMO seeks a dynamic, enthusiastic, passionate self-starter for its Chief Program Officer, who will provide leadership, supervision, oversight, and management of the agency’s programs and services as well as work with senior leadership and staff to develop future services.

For complete job description and to apply, visit www.ccsomo.org/employment.

Job openings at Catholic Charities of Southern Missouri

VISTA in collaboration with CCSOMODisaster Resilience AmeriCorps VISTA—Based in Springfield, MO. Join our team in helping non-English speaking people become ready for the next disaster. Build your professional skills in working with community groups and local emergency management. Bilingual in Spanish required.

Mary’s side of the Fatima Story

Our Blessed Mother in the year 1917 requested the consecration of Russia to her Immaculate Heart

through the intercession of three children of Fatima, Portugal. She promises the “gift of peace” to the world if this is accomplished. The rules of this act are as follows:

The pope must consecrate Russia, by name, to her Immaculate Heart in union with all of the Catho-lic bishops of the world, at the same time.

Our Lady then, on July 13, 1917, made a very striking ultima-tum to mankind, “If my requests are granted, Russia will be converted and there will be peace. If my requests are not granted, Russia will spread her errors throughout the world, rising up wars and persecutions against the Church. The good will be martyred, the Holy Father will have much to suffer and various nations will be annihilated.”

Fatima has been approved by every pope since 1930, and I would hope that the pope, as well as the bishops of the world, would come together at this time and honor her wishes as that consecration has not been culminated. According to Sr. Lucia, when being questioned by the

From a reader:Requests from Our Lady remain unanswered

Papal Nuncio in March of 1983, she emphatically said NO, IT DID NOT! Because:

1. Russia was not clearly the object of the consecration;

2. The pope consecrated the World, not Russia;

3. Each bishop did not arrange a public, solemn ceremony of Russia’s consecration in his own cathedral.

Folks, we need to pray for the bishops as well as the popes who have procrastinated in their duties for the consecration of Russia to the Immaculate Heart of Mary. Had this been accomplished we would now be enjoying the peace that she promised 100 years ago. MARY DOESN’T LIE!

Teresa HeeterPierce City, MO

Letters to the Editor may be sent to Editor, The Mirror, 601 S. Jefferson Ave., Springfield, MO 65806-3143, or via Email, leidson@dioscg.org. Letters will be verified so please provide your name, daytime phone number, or Email address. Preference is given to letters that are direct, concise, and no longer than 250 words. Letters are published at the discretion of the editor and subject to editing. Readers’ letters are limited to one per person in a 60-day period. u

LETTER TO EDITORFrom Our Reader

10 The Mirror August 4, 2017

Herman H. Lohmeyer Funeral HomeLocally-owned & operated u Dedicated u Caring u Professional

Offices of the Catholic Cemeteries

Paul & Lynn WunderlichDavid Fenton • Louis Lohmeyer • Charlene Harris-Bengsch

Gene Lohmeyer • Mary Ann Johnston • Joel Champ

500 E. Walnut - Springfield, MO (417) 862-4433www.hhlohmeyer.com

DIOCESAN NEWS/ADVERTISING

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1947 E. Seminole, Springfield MO 65804(417) 886-9994 • fax (417) 886-9996, gormanscharpf@mchsi.com

Chaplains named for Springfield Catholic High SchoolSpringfield

In addition to their parish responsibilities, Bp. Edward M. Rice recently appointed Fr. Charles Dunn, Fr. Colby Elbert, and Fr. Joseph Stover-ink as chaplains for Springfield Catholic High

School. With Fr. Dunn serving as the lead chaplain, the priests will be responsible for the weekly division of class Masses and the monthly all-school liturgy, as well as making sure the sacrament of penance and reconciliation is available. Chaplains are often pres-ent to counsel students as necessary, attend sporting events or other extracurricular events, and generally connect with the youth, affirming Catholic identity in the school. Father Dunn serves as associate pastor of Immaculate Conception Parish, Springfield; Fr. El-bert serves as associate pastor of St. Elizabeth Ann Se-

ton Parish, Springfield, St. Francis of Assisi Parish, Nixa, and provides sacramental ministry at Springfield’s US Medi-cal Center for Federal Prisoners. Fr. Stoverink is associate pastor of St. Agnes Ca-thedral Parish, Springfield. ©TM

Fr. Elbert

Fr. Dunn

Fr. Stoverink

Knights of Columbus Missouri StateClown Club Annual Convention

Aug. 11-12

The Knights of Columbus Missouri State Clown Club’s annual convention will be held at the Capitol Plaza Hotel

in Jefferson City on Aug. 11-12. Open to everyone, one does not have to be a Knight to come and learn about our club and its ministry of smiles. We have members from age six to 86. Come learn more about bringing joy to communities throughout Missouri. For more information on the Knights of Columbus Clown Club, contact Steve (Bingo) Meystrik at meystrik@centurylink.net or call/text him at (573) 353-8652.

(417) 496-9527

931 S Kickapoo Ave, Springfield, MO 65804

August 4, 2017 The Mirror 11ADVERTISING

12 The Mirror August 4, 2017DIOCESAN NEWS

Prayer, penance, reparations for peaceBishop Edward M. Rice on Our Lady of Fatima:

This year marks the 100th anniversary of Our Lady’s appearance to the three shepherd children in Fatima,

Portugal: St. Francisco de Jesus Marto (June 11, 1908—April 4, 1919), his sister St. Jacinta de Jesus Marto (March 11, 1910—Feb. 20, 1920), and their cousin Lúcia Santos (1907–2005).

Together, Our Lady appeared on six different occasions between May and October. Dressed in white and “brighter than the sun,” Mary warned the children of the dire consequences if the world continued to reject God. Six popes have since proclaimed her specific and decisive call to conversion and repentance. Pope Fran-cis, who dedicated his papacy to Our Lady of Fatima in 2013 and who consecrated the world to her, recently visited Fatima for the anniversary.

At its core, the message of Fatima is this: without God we walk in darkness. And in this day of rising atheism, the darkness has intensified. To counter that darkness, Our Lady asked the three shepherds to pray and sacrifice. She also requests the same of us—to offer our sufferings to the Lord for the sake of sinners and to pray the rosary each day to bring about peace. Each of us is invited to do our part for the salvation of the world through prayer and reparation. That was the message of her first ap-pearance on May 13, 1917.

Second apparitionAt the second apparition, Mary

taught the shepherds the prayer for the end of each decade, “O my Jesus, forgive us our sins. Save us from the fires of hell. Lead all souls to heaven, especially those in most need of Thy mercy.” The anniversary of that par-ticular apparition was June 13.

The July 13 apparition includes the secret of Fatima in three parts. While there is much speculation on these “secrets,” it does involve war, consecration, and persecution. Again, the response to these secrets is praying

the rosary. Regarding the secrets, Sr. Lucia, in 2005 stated, “Don’t dwell on the miracles and secrets: We are going to be judged on the Ten Command-ments when we die. We must stop offending God. We must know God.”

Rosary for peacePrior to the fourth apparition,

Aug. 19, the children were kidnapped, imprisoned, and threatened with death unless they recanted their words about the “beautiful Lady.” Our Lady urges us to “Pray, pray, very much … Make sacrifices for sinners.” Continu-

ing that same message, with the fifth apparition, Sept. 13, Mary continues to urge us to pray the rosary for peace.

Finally, in the sixth ap-parition, the anniversary of which is on Oct. 13, 70,000 gathered and witnessed the “miracle of the sun.” It was then that Our Lady stated that she was Our Lady of the Rosary. She called people to amend their lives and ask pardon for their sins: “They must not offend Our Lord anymore, for He is already too much offended.”

Mary’s message to the children at Fatima was essentially a call to conversion, faith, prayer, pen-ance, and hope. In fact, St. John Paul II summarized the message of Fatima with his words, “Mary’s message at Fatima can be synthesized in these clear, initial words of Christ: “The kingdom of God is at hand. Repent, and believe in the Gospel” (Mk 1:15).

ReparationThe idea of offering sacrifices for

a spiritual good no doubt seems a bit foreign in our materialistic, comfort-driven culture. Pope Benedict XVI addressed this situation in his 2007 encyclical on hope: “There used to be a form of devotion … that included the idea of ‘offering up’ the minor, daily hardships that continually strike at us … giving them meaning.” Repa-ration is an act of love to God to help compensate for someone’s failure or refusal to love. When a person offers some good deed or act of self-denial as reparation to God, he is saying, “God, I love you” in order to make up for an offense against God when someone

else says, “God, I do not love you.”Mary’s message teaches us to

make sacrifices for sinners, to offer penance, and to pray the rosary every day. Pope Francis put it this way on May 13, 2017, when we offer sacrifices for others, we have the opportunity “to offer yourself to God.”

The angel prayer, now attached to the rosary says it so well, “My God I believe, I adore, I trust, and I love Thee. I beg pardon for those who do not believe, do not adore, do not trust, and do not love Thee.”

On May 13, 1981, the anniver-sary of Fatima, Pope John Paul II was shot in St. Peter’s Square by Ali Agca, a Turkish assassin. The Pope would go on to say, “One hand shot the gun. It was a mother’s hand that guided the bullet’s path.” That bullet is now part of Our Lady’s crown.

Spiritual weaponryWe are not powerless against the

evils of our world. Looking around at the chaos, violence, and what seems to be the degradation of our society with immorality, we have the weapons needed to engage the battle—the rosary.

In a letter to Cardinal Caffarra, Sr. Lucia said, “The final battle be-tween the Lord and the reign of Satan will be about marriage and the fam-ily.” Could it be that we are just in the beginning stages of that battle? While some do not prefer such militaristic imagery, the reality is we have been given the weapons for the battle—the rosary. To quote Pope Pius IX, “Give me an army saying the rosary and I will conquer the world.”

When all seems dark and the

The message of Fatima is this: Without God, we walk in darkness.

100th Anniversary of the Miracles at Fatima

Celebrate the 100th Anniversary of the Miracle of FatimaBishop Edward M. Rice will celebrate Mass and lead the rosary at the following parishes to commemorate the remaining months of the 100th Anniversary of the Miracle of Fatima. At each location, the rosary will begin at 6:30 p.m. with Mass at 7 p.m.

Saturday, Aug. 19, St. Leo the Great Church, Ava

Wednesday, Sept. 13, Ste. Marie de Lac Parish, Ironton

Friday, Oct. 13, St. Mary of the Annunciation Cathedral, Cape Girardeau

powers beyond our control are on the verge of overwhelming us, we know what to do. It might seem simple and maybe even childish or naïve, but the answer is the rosary, the scapular, prayer, and penance.

Our Lady of Fatima, pray for us. ©TM