In Preparation for Novemeber 1st: let us align ourselves with the angels and saints as we journey toward the day of Universal Sanctification!

October 4: St. Francis of Assisi, our big brother in Heaven and model of holiness!

I beseech Thee, O Lord, that the fiery and sweet strength of Thy love may absorb my soul from all things that are under heaven, that I may die for love of Thy love as Thou didst deign to die for love of my love. -St. Francis of Assisi

How does a saint help others be holy? It's all about love...

"People today experience a dual and radical phenomenon in the world: the phenomenon of great evil and at the same time of great goodness. People need to be positively instructed about the mystery of both good and evil. They need to be led to an integral Christianity in which they can invest their lives, and find the fulfillment of their human and spiritual growth. The world becomes energized only through the witness of true and holy Christians. Think of the deep impact St. Francis of Assisi made on the people of his time. St. Francis was a man totally transfigured by love and suffering, wounded with Christ’s wounds. From La Verna, Francis radiates great supernatural love. Mind you that we are not speaking of the St. Francis we watch in movies: the Francis who pats the little birds, etc. These are only marginal expressions of St. Francis’ love for God, poured out on his brothers and sisters, and extended to the whole creation. Rather, we are speaking of Francis as the poor and simple man, who receives Christ’s wounds, and whose only language is the language of love." (Giaquinta, The Spirituality of the Pro Sanctity Movement)

Please post your comments, quotes and book recommendations on St. Francis of Assisi!

In Preparation for Novemeber 1st: let us align ourselves with the angels and saints as we journey toward the day of Universal Sanctification!

In Preparation for Novemeber 1st: let us align ourselves with the angels and saints as we journey toward the day of Universal Sanctification!

October 1 St. Therese of Lisieux: Our sister on the journey of holiness!
"Always keep lifting your foot to climb the ladder of holiness, and do not imagine that you can mount even the first step. All God asks of you is good will."
-St. Therese of Lisieux

Why do we need saints? How are they models of holiness? Our founder, Bishop Giaquinta said,

"In the Church, when a person becomes a saint, love grows in intensity and spreads in quantity according to the fervor with which it is received and responded to. Consequently, the greater the holiness of a saint, the more the grace merited for our brothers and sisters.

In fact, for the Church, one person, a saint, who lived 100% in a state of grace would be more meritorious than a thousand people who lived their life of grace only at 10%. In other words, one saint can mediate more grace and be more beneficial to the Church and to humanity than a thousand lukewarm people. St. Therese of the Child Jesus alone can mediate more grace than hundreds of souls who merely live in a state of grace. You understand then how necessary it is that the number of saintly people be increased not only for the benefit of the Church, but also for sinners who need mediation in order to become converted and return to the Lord.

By emphasizing holiness we can more easily encourage people to move from merely a state of conversion to a higher state of grace. Actually, every interior movement – from sin to grace to holiness - is important, but we strive to make holiness the focus so that the Church may be enriched with saints who mediate for all their brothers and sisters. This is one of the reasons why holiness is so paramount in the Church." (Giaquinta, Spirituality of the Pro Sanctity Movement)

Please feel free to post comments on holiness and quotes of saints!

In Preparation for Novemeber 1st: let us align ourselves with the angels and saints as we journey toward the day of Universal Sanctification!

Fly with the Spirit!

Thankamma (first left) in California next to Fr. Matthew, Palmira, Fr. Antonio, Agnes and Renee.

Thankamma, departs this week: May she fly with the Spirit!

We thank God for the gift and presence of Thankamma, who has given unconditionally her time, talent and oblation in the USA since 2005. While here she spent time in all three Centers and had an opportunity to see a little of the USA. We hope she will take back a bag of joyful memories - memories are light, and they can travel free of cost on the plane!

Thankamma, thank you for your missionary spirit and for sharing yourself with us! We will miss you but most of all pray for you and for all your needs as you return to India to continue your life of love and service. Our Founder and Giuliana will intercede for you from heaven. Our Lady of Trust is always with you, so we will not worry about you at all!

With great affection, Teresa and the USA Pro Sanctity Family

Fly with the Spirit!

World Youth Day Journal - WYD Mass w/ B-XVI

Sunday, July 20th: Today certainly was a short day. I woke up a couple of times throughout the night and noticed only the moon had shifted. Everything else was pleasant and the wispy clouds still had a presence. Once the four of us were up, we had breakfast. The morning prayer service was well sung (by Benedictine monks if I remember right) but very few seemed to be paying much attention around where we were. Soon after, the Pope flew over in a helicopter, which seemed to wake the crowed up. He landed elsewhere and travelled back to the racetrack in the popemobile. When he arrived he did a lap around the track, which I thought was neat of him to do - although he didn't get close to us. I briefly thought about rushing near the outer track he was circling. As fun as that would be, I'm usually not one to add to "hysteria" - besides, many pilgrims who didn't spend the night were still filing into the raceway and I didn't want to loose our relatively decent spot.

As Mass got underway, we were joined by several others from our large group - young and old. Once again the presentation of the Gospel was done with a tribal twist. Although overly drawn-out, it was still very cool. My favorite part of Mass was watching the Pope confirm 20+ young adults from around the world. How cool would it be to have him put the chrism oil on me? Here's my notes from the Pope's homily:

"You will receive power" has been fulfilled in the Upper Room. Now, for the youth, there will be a new upper room.
The Holy Spirit is the Power and Love of the Church.
Let us pass down our faith like a treasure that's been passed down through the ages.
Are you building your faith/life on a firm foundation?
The Holy Spirit is asking you to prophesy to the world.
The Church needs the power of the youth, all young people.
Those being called to the priesthood/consecrated life, don't be afraid to say yes to Jesus.
With the help of Mary and the Saints, let us go out into the new upper room and receive the Holy Spirit to proclaim the Good News.


After Mass my small group shared our food with the older folks in our group that joined us for Mass. Then we picked everything up and, while different bands entertained on the stage, everyone started filing out of the raceway. I wanted to stay for Fr. Stan Fortuna's performance and was able to get right up close to the stage. It was my first time of getting to see this rapping priest from the Bronx perform live and I enjoyed it. He was only there for a few free-styling songs (way too brief overall). In one of his free-styling moments, he sung to all those trying to leave, reminding us all that we are still carrying Jesus inside of us. Not only are we called to be witnesses to the world, but to each other as well. Fr. Stan implored us with a lyrical beat to stay calm, be patient, and show appreciation for all the volunteers keeping us safe by halting us until it was in our best interest to continue out into the streets and directing us where to go.

After Fr. Stan was off the stage, I only stayed around a little while longer. It took a lot of walking and a little waiting to find a bus that was going back to Central Station. A bunch of pilgrims from Madrid, Spain also got on, so I asked if they were expecting the announcement that WYD 2011 would be in Madrid and they said they expected it - they've known it for a while. I was embarrassed at how little conversational Spanish I could recall when I needed it. Central Station was so filled with pilgrims that they stopped letting people in until the train platforms cleared off. I decided to walk down to Darling Harbor and see if I could run into anyone from my group. I didn't, but I finally purchased some postcards and a souvenir for my sister.

On my way back it started to sprinkle and, while I was on the train, it finally rained. The timing of this absolutely blows my mind. Not only has the weather been pretty much perfect for the entire week of WYD, but Cardinal Pell opened today's Mass praying for rain to end Australia's drought. After all the WYD events were done - and hopefully with some time to clean up - a sign from heaven is given. A light rain. Nothing to end the drought, but we didn't ask for flash-flooding either, did we?

WYD '08 had wrapped up and the next evening I parted ways from the large group (as we had different travel itineraries) and stayed at Mary's place for the next couple of nights. I got to go to the zoo (which is better than Omaha's zoo, but only because of the view and they have the "Australian Wildlife" exhibit), take a two hour train ride northwest to the Blue Mountains, and also see one of the beaches before nearly missing my flight back to America!

World Youth Day Journal - WYD Mass w/ B-XVI

World Youlth Day Journal: Pilgrimage and Vigil

Saturday, July 19th: Since there was no catechesis today, the morning was a bit more lazy. Too lazy really. Not everyone in my small group was ready on time so we missed the bus we were planning on taking into the train station. Some thought another bus would be coming in 30 minutes but the next one wasn't for an hour, and that one would be the last scheduled bus for the morning. So I took the extra time, went to the school's library and tried to get caught up on my e-mail. 45 minutes later, several other pilgrims were now ready to go into Sydney as well. We needed two coach busses to take everyone to the train station. Because this was the day of the pilgrimage walk and sleep-over at Randwick Raceway, everyone was carrying food, pillows, sleeping bags, etc. for the journey. It was interesting piling everyone and everything into the busses, but we made it work. The best part was that my small group was on the bus with the group from Somoa. They sang almost the entire way to the train station. Times like those have been some of my favorite experiences when travelling; hearing other cultures sing their praise to God in their native languages.

Because of our late start to the day, my small group debated which route to take for the pilgrimage, as several were marked off throughout the city. Several musical artists were performing at the raceway and there were certain ones that I wanted to see, so we tried to take our late start into account when deciding on the length of the walks. I think we ended up doing the right thing and choosing to embark from the North Sydney train station and walk the entire way (instead of getting back on the train for part of the walk, trying to shave some time off the trip to get to see more of the concerts, which I was selfishly contemplating). We began our pilgrimage at about 1pm just down the street from the train station, right after eating the lunch we packed with us. I was very pleased and a bit surprised when someone from the small group requested we open our Liturgy Guides and use the prayers that were put together for this particular event. She calmly, yet with fervor, read aloud the prayers designed for certain parts of the walk, as was laid out in our Liturgy Guide to augment the pilgrimage experience.

The first leg of our walk was crossing the Sydney Harbor Bridge, which was closed for only the third time in history in order to accommodate the event. The trains still crossed it and, as I waved to the passengers, I remembered being on that train crossing the bridge to get to our starting point and seeing so many people and flags on the bridge.

The second leg of the pilgrimage was going through Darling Harbor and Tumbalong Park. I had been through there many times in the past several days for different WYD events, but today it looked and felt different. Besides the stream of pilgrims flowing in one general direction, the rest of the crowds in this scenic area of town were normal residents - boyfriend/girlfriend, spouses, families, friends - hanging out and enjoying a beautiful, sunny day at the harbor and in the park. I felt like I got to get a small glimpse of Sydney on a normal Saturday afternoon.

The third leg of the walk was through residential streets. Up until then my small group was walking at a very good pace and passing lots of pilgrims, so it gave us an opportunity to see several groups and hear different music as some passed the time in musical unity. Once the streets narrowed to two lanes, the crowd condensed, slowed, and even halted once. My group opened our Liturgy Guides to the prayer meant for this portion of the pilgrimage. I was blown away by this part: "Lord, we ask you to bless the families that we pass. Help them to be true Cenacles of Love, defenders of life and builders of a culture of love." I rarely hear the word Cenacle, but from Bishop William Giaquinta's book, The Cenacle, I was recently reminded that several Grace-filled events took place in the Upper Room, the Cenacle. And now, this prayer called for blessings on the citizens of Sydney, that they may become living Upper Rooms, filled with Love. May they (and all of us) experience a washing of feet, Jesus in the breaking of the bread, the fire of the Holy Spirit, and more.

Every once in a while we came across some protesters. In a certain way, I was waiting for this, to see how I would react. Here is where I know I failed to be a witness to God's Mercy and Love. First was a young man striding along past and then back against the flow, holding a sign that said something to the affect of not allowing priest to molest our children. I smiled at the irony that, though it seemed like he was there in defiance, we all were in agreement with him. I thought bout yelling AMEN to him and shaking his hand, but I kept my eyes forward as I passed him by...

Next was a small group crossing an intersection, back and forth, during the gaps in the crowd, with rainbow flags and signs talking about love. I smiled again, but not at any irony. Although they were talking about a misappropriation of love, we could agree that God is Love, and that we are all called to love our neighbor, not judge their souls. I thought about waving and yelling, "We love you", but then I thought I would feel like I was in a parade. So I passed them by...

Next was a large group of Christians trying to tell us the Church is wrong. Obviously they were well-meaning Christians who misunderstood our faith and several pilgrims were already engrossed in conversation with them, explaining the Truth. I thought about engaging in apologetics with someone, but I didn't want to hold my group back and I passed them by...

During the home-stretch to Randwick Raceway, a couple of us were handed a small, purple and black booklet with the words "Last Rites" on it. I didn't notice the hundreds of ripped up papers, thrown on the ground ahead of me until someone mentioned them. My eyes immediately got big. "Was I just handed a Chick Tract!?" Jack Chick, the famous cartoonist who creates these little cartoon tracts that blatantly lies about and misrepresents the facets of the Catholic faith. He's a good cartoonist and a decent writer, but vehemently against the Church. The poor lady who was handing these tracts out to us was caught in a world of misguidance. I vocally thought about turning around, hugging her and praying over her, hoping that nobody had been crass to her earlier and that she could see the Light of Christ in the pilgrims. But I kept walking straight ahead, wishing Catholics didn't litter...

I ask myself, is it better to actively/vocally show love, or to ignore those I disagree with? That's rhetorical, of course. Too often I think too much and act too little.

After 5.5 miles and about 3 hours of walking, we finally made it to our designated area within the Raceway. As we were looking for a spot to lay out our sleeping bags, Matt Maher came to the stage. Since my group went to see Christopher West the night before and didn't get to see Matt in the huge concert where I went, I was extremely happy that they got to see him now. As the evening drew on it came time for the Saturday night prayer vigil. Without any fanfare, the Pope came out of a doorway in the stage and the crowd erupted excitement. I completely forgot that he was going to be here for this and I got more excited than during his "arrival" a couple of days ago. The vigil was beautiful and it ended with Eucharistic adoration. Stop. How did I get here and be able to worship the creator of the universe with hundreds of thousands of others and the Pope? When the vigil finished, I knew I wasn't done with adoration. They had four tents set up throughout the raceway for Reconciliation and adoration of the Blessed Sacrament until the wee hours of the morning. I told my group that I wanted to find one of those tents and, to my delight, two of them wanted to come with - one for Reconciliation and the other for adoration. The first tent we found, near the middle of the raceway, was too packed to get in. The second was packed, but still had enough room for us. Each of us returned back to our sleeping bags separately. On my way back I noticed the night was full of energy - people huddled in conversation, song, dance, clapping, trading trinkets, etc.

World Youlth Day Journal: Pilgrimage and Vigil

World Youth Day Jounal: Adoration

Friday, July 18th: I was more excited than ever to sing and dance to the song we learned yesterday at catechesis because the two ladies in my small group missed it yesterday and were going to experience it today. First, we learned a third song/dance, although I still liked yesterday's better. The "animation team" invited the brave ones in the crowd to join them in dancing to that first song they taught us. So I got up on stage and danced (tall people in the back) alongside the bishop of a northeast diocese in India. It was the last day for catechesis, although it didn't dawn on me at the time, and I was a bit punchy today. The approach and antics of the emcee were getting to me and I am ashamed of my "humorous" and snappy comments that I made throughout the morning, under my breath. On a more positive note, the bishop gave a great catechesis on the Holy Spirit being the principal agent of mission:

- When we "receive power," as it states in Act 1:8, this is the power of God.
- "Witness" comes from "martyr".
- "Be the change you wish to see in the world" ~Ghandi
- Filled with the Holy Spirit, we feel that it is our duty to be witnesses to the world.
- World Youth Day is a manifestation of our Christian mission.
- The Holy Spirit instills us with Divine Charity.
- We can never separate holiness from our mission.
- Mission is not an option. It is in our hearts.

Just before Mass, we pilgrims were asked to come up and share a testimony of what WYD has meant to us so far. I was impressed with the diversity of witnessing given. I was glad we stayed for Mass. The cantors were from a large group in Minnesota. We sang "Here I am to Worship", "Blessed be Your Name", and "How Great is Our God". Now, as much as I love those well-known worship songs, I am disappointed they didn't pick songs from Catholic artists during this Catholic celebration. On the positive side, you can't accuse the Catholics of being exclusive to others.

The lunch truck was super late so my expanded-small group (young and older) went to McDonalds. Since it's Friday, I got the Fish Fillet...it was pretty good. On the train ride into Sydney we discussed our plans for the day. The seniors decided to try and catch today's big event, the Stations of the Cross, at Mary's place (Fr. Paul's friend). I kept debating what to do because it is my favorite devotion, but I didn't think this would have been the same (since everyone is assigned a place and stays there for the three hours while the liturgical leads went from place to place). I finally decided to go up to the top of Sydney Tower first. My normal small group came too. I figured that I'd be up and down in time to catch the last 30 minutes of the Stations at my designated area.

The line into the Sydney Tower wasn't too long. Of course the view was beautiful, and the binocular thingys that cost money to look through and are bigger than your head...they were free! They even have upper level and lower level viewing areas. Unfortunately, the line to get back down took about an hour and a half. So, the sun was down before we were. And, as beautiful as the sky was at that time, my place in the line to get down was out of the view of the actual sunset. I knew I missed the last part of the stations so, instead of going to Barangaroo when I finally was on street level, I went straight to the Sydney Opera House. The other three went to catch Christopher West's final talk. Before I mention why I went to the Opera House, I want to emphasis that I missed an amazing rendition of the Stations of the Cross. It was almost a different devotional all-together and had a "Passion Play" feel to it. Some of the stations themselves were different than what I am used to. I am truly sorry I skipped out on it live. I am endlessly grateful for EWTN being there to record it. When I got back to the States, I was able to catch their broadcast of it over the web. It was phenomenal. The commentary was helpful and the insights and reflections offered by Jason Everett and Fr. Mark Mary were incredibly poignant and moving...I strongly encourage everyone to make some time out of your day (or even spread it out over a couple of days) to watch the entire 4 hour program. Make a mini-retreat for yourself out of this, you will not be disappointed. Visit http://www.ewtn.com/wyd2008/watch.htm.

O.K., back to Sydney Opera House. When I arrived, it was time to eat. It's Friday, so I chose not to have the stew and eat what I packed with me. I walked out to the end of the peninsula the Opera House is built on and sat on the railing separating me from the water. It was then that I finally had that moment where it sunk in that I was actually in Sydney, Australia. With the sound of the water behind me, the full moon rising to the left of me, the Sydney Opera House lit up right in front of me, and the Harbor Bridge to the right of me. I thought to myself, "who am I that I get to be here?" I thanked God for that moment. When I finished my casual meal I entered one of the smaller side theaters where Mother Theresa's Missionaries of Charity were hosting Eucharistic Adoration. they even had a relic of Mother Theresa (it looked like a blood stained piece of cotton). The entrance was also the upper level - balcony - where confessions were being heard so I went to the lower level to begin my time with Jesus. I had a tough time concentrating because I was in a high traffic area. After a short while I decided I should go to Reconciliation. I had a great view of Jesus while the priest offered practical and spiritual advice and I let Him minister to my heart. I went back down stairs and focused on the penance. By the time I left there was a long line to get in! I was overjoyed at the experience and the night was just beginning.


My next stop was to Barangaroo where the "Receive the Power! Live" concert was going on. Although I missed the world-famous Hillsong United band, I got there just in time to hear John Pridmore give the 10 minute edition of his conversion story from the gangster life to letting God free him. Check him out at http://www.johnpridmore.com/. Then Matt Maher and his band took the stage. As one of the best Catholic bands in the world, they lead worship like none other. This time, they had a top-notch, Australian teen choir backing them up as well. Absolutely powerful. Better still, as is included with most Matt Maher concerts, the night was topped off when the Blessed Sacrament was brought to the front of the outdoor stage. With thousands upon thousands in attendance, we adored Christ together while Matt Maher lead us in a couple of worship songs! These events are open to all, so there were non-Catholics in attendance. The Holy Spirit was moving in a powerful way tonight. It was marvelous.

World Youth Day Jounal: Adoration

World Youth Day Journal: The Pope Arrives

Thursday, July 17: Another "comfortable" night in my new sleeping bag. Although, my morning didn't start off too great. I forgot my towel in the room when I went to take a shower... I was never exactly sure what the temperature was at any given time, but my guess is, in the morning it was probably 38-40 degrees Fahrenheit. Needless to say, that was a chili run back to the room to retrieve my towel.

Morning catechesis began with a new song. I wasn't too keen on it at first, but once I included myself in the actions I enjoyed it more than yesterday's song, which we sang right after the new one. Before the "keynote speaker" a local priest said a few words about Reconciliation and invited us to the Sacrament as it was being offered in the back of the room for the entire morning. He did an outstanding job explaining just what Reconciliation is and did it with a great sense of humor. Several priests (maybe six to eight) offered their time for the Sacrament and the line was long and steady throughout the morning. The keynote was by the Archbishop of Guam. His main speech was pretty good as he spoke on how the Holy Spirit is the Soul of the Church. Unfortunately, I didn't take good notes:
Jesus was simple/focused - anchored in His Love for His Father. So, how are we to become focused and have zeal for God? Look hard at the crucifix.

The Q&A portion had a lot more questions than yesterday but I was not impressed with how they were answered. I'm usually not one to leave early from anything, but this was one of the things that convinced me to duck out with my "small group" as the Q&A was finishing. The other thing that convinced me to leave before Mass was that a quick look at our Liturgy Guide (given to every pilgrim) made me think the Pope was saying a short Mass just after his arrival in the afternoon. In all actuality, he would lead in a quick Liturgy of the Word. Ooops.

My small group went into Sydney, hopping off the train at the St. James station. They checked out the merchandise tent near St. Mary Cathedral while I looked for lunch. I was told lunch was only being served near the convention center (Darling Harbor), so we started going that way. Once there, we decided to go straight to our designated place in Barangaroo for the Pope's celebrated arrival. It seemed that all the WYD Volunteers gave us different info about lunch so two of us stopped in at a bay side sandwich shop and ordered food for the small group. It was really good food and we later found out that if we stayed at the catechesis site we wouldn't have gotten lunch anyway because their shipment never came.

Our assigned location for the Pope's arrival was right in front of the main stage, but all the way at the back. Luckily, we were able to move to a closer section, but the stage was still in the way of getting a good glimpse of the "boatacade" he first came in on. Once he docked, he got into the "Popemobile" and took the short drive to the stage. The crowd was buzzing with excitement. People were standing on the barricades, trying to get a height advantage. The big-screens were a blessing, but certainly no replacement for the first, real sighting one has of such a figurehead. When B-XI was on the stage, the greetings/formalities out of the way (which actually weren't all that boring) he lead us in a short Liturgy of the Word, including a homily:
He greeted us with encouragement in our responsibilities to the environment and social justice. Life is a search for the good, truth, freedom, and is not just a string of experiences. Christ offers more! He continued along the theme of our catechesis from the morning.

Unfortunately (and surprisingly), it was hard to focus because there were several in the immediate vicinity who were not always paying attention. Either that, or they are really good at multitasking. All-in-all, it was a surreal but positively great experience seeing the Pope in person for the first time. The build-up and the excitement were a lot of fun. I really enjoyed as he spoke for a bit in each of the "official languages of WYD". As he addressed the people in a different language, the pilgrims who spoke that language would erupt in cheer. The event ended with everyone singing the WYD theme song, "Receive the Power". That was a powerful, unifying experience.

Our group went their separate ways to the concerts, workshops, or sightseeing. My small group planned on seeing Christopher West again and the seniors hadn't quite decided where they wanted to go yet, so they came with us. I was very excited to aid in spreading the Theology of the Body to an older generation and get their feedback. But that was hours away yet.

Crowd control led us out of Barangaroo in the opposite way than where we wanted to go, but the crowd was full of jubilee and made the extra long walk a lot of fun. We stopped at a popular bar for some rest and replenishment. I lost fun game of pool to one of the older men in my growing small group. The game took longer than expected and we found ourselves in a rush to get to a good position by the doors of the scheduled venue in plenty of time for Christopher West. As Murphy's Law would have it, when we got there, we were told the venue had changed to be at the convention center (the same room he was in the night before). Really feeling the crunch for time, myself and another younger guy decided to speed ahead and get to the convention center and solidify our place in line, knowing there was going to be a huge and angst-driven crowd. Right before the two of us sped ahead, I happened across a young, newly wedded couple from Iowa State University, who added WYD to the end of their original honeymoon plans. They wanted to see Mr. West but didn't know where the convention center was, so I made sure they followed us. Considering the density of the crowd and the almost frantic pace, it's times like those that I love being 6'3" with an easily recognizable beard. It was an exciting, fast-paced walk, through Sydney, getting to hear the short-short version of the newlyweds' story.

We got there with excellent position in front of the door but I thought there were other entry points that wouldn't be as crowded because they weren't as well known. I went to find them and came up empty. I still have no idea where those extra doors I saw from inside the room lead to. But I can't really say I came up empty, because I did find a counter loaded with free copies of Catholic Answers' booklet containing two tracts: "Pillar of Fire, Pillar of Truth" and Jason Evert's "Pure Love". So I grabbed one for each of the young adults in my small group. Upon my return towards the doors of the lecture hall Mr. West was to present, security had already closed off the entry points into the hallway for crowd control. The room's doors hadn't been opened yet and I had no idea if the rest of my small group made it into the line before this. Plus, I wasn't sure I would get a seat anymore. Eventually, I did get in and found the rest of my small group, handed them the booklets and enjoyed Mr. West's "The Love that Satisfies: An Introduction to Pope Benedict's Teaching on Erotic and Divine Love." Here are my notes:
Within the context of "Deus Caritas Est": Eros = Love between man and woman (more specifically, marital relations); Agape = Love between God and Man (more specifically between Jesus & the Church).

The male-female difference is meant to reflect/express God's Love in eros & agape.
Question everything with sincerity and you'll be taken straight to the Eucharist, because Jesus is the Truth, Way & Life. There is a place in everyone that no one can touch. But in that small, still space in the quite, God is there. In the Eucharist, God's agape love is bodily. The body is capable of showing us the spiritual. The challenge of eros is learning to love fully as Christ.

The vocation of a consecrated celebate does not say "sex is bad" - it says "Heaven is real." Consecrated celebates participate more directly in the banquet at the heavenly wedding feast. They signify that they are not losing anything, but gaining everything. They are the signs that point everyone else of heavenly Love.

World Youth Day Journal: The Pope Arrives

World Youth Day Journal: Theology of the Body

Wednesday, July 16: I was excited for the first day of catechesis (teaching) since I wasn't sure what to expect. We were happy to find out, first thing in the morning, that we could attend the one in Campbelltown instead of at the Entertainment Center in Sydney. That means we would not be as rushed in the morning. So, we arrived at "King of Clubs: Campbelltown Catholic Club" which is sort of like a YMCA, with electric gambling machines, a convention center, and more. All the money that goes into the club goes back into the Catholic schools. Pretty impressive considering it all seems to have stemmed from local concerns and grassroots initiatives.

Anyway, when I get there with the group, I joyfully find that we are among people from Somoa, Canada, New Zealand, several states, and more. We were introduced to our "animation team" - a group from India - to lead us in song/dance to get our blood pumping and then lead us in a mantra to the Holy Spirit, inviting Him into our heart, soul, and life. It was fun and powerful - I loved it. I know there aren't many who are used to some charisma in their prayer so I do wonder how everyone else took it. From what I could tell, they were pretty accepting.

Then our teaching began as the archbishop of Regina, Alaska took the stage and gave an impressive talk. Here are some of my notes:
He began at the beginning, reflecting on the first chapters of John's Gospel and, of course, Genesis. The archbishop noted that when we breathe, we live. God breathed into Adam's nostrils and Adam came alive. So, Adam breathed with his own breath, but also with God's life-giving breath. Throughout creation, God declared it all "good," but when God made man, He claimed us "very good." We were given dominion over all else. We were given dignity, part of God's holiness. But when Adam and Eve were given free will they misused it and chose to disobey God. Death entered with sin. So God entered into His own creation and took on the pain, suffering and death that sin causes and conquered it by rising from the dead. God didn't just give up on us. In His fidelity to us, He decided to redeem us. He decided to give us a new life - through Baptism. - *Aside: Little did I know how much this tied in with other talks to come, not related to the catechesis in the morning.

Following the talk, there was an extensive period for Q&A. I was a bit concerned because it is always "up in the air" whether a Q&A session will go over well. This one did. "Who is the Church?" "The Ukrainian Rite uses the image of the Holy Spirit as the Mother (completing the family image), the Roman Rite doesn't, why?" "With so much against us as Christian, who do we press onward?" "Did Jesus have to die for our redemption?" - Great questions!

We ended our first morning together with Mass and the music led by the "animation team." Those guys make me smile. I hope to travel to India one day. I am really bummed at myself for not having any pictures during our morning catechesis all three days.

From there, our big group split off into smaller groups, each deciding what they wanted to attend or go see. This was the only day in which no big event was being held so the rest of the afternoon/night was filled with concerts, talks, forums, prayer, expos, and more all held in several locations within Sydney. Two young ladies from the University of Nebraska in Lincoln, a young man from Marquette University, and myself stuck together. On the train ride into the city I passed around a packet that contained the schedule of activities offered through the week. We marked what interested us and then tried to map out our routes. That was difficult. I was excited to see some great names lined up at WYD - I mean Matt Maher, Fr. Stan Fortuna, Christopher West, Jason Everet, and more! However, my "small group" didn't seem to recognize any of them. Nonetheless, a talk by Christopher West (later in the week) caught one of their eye's. Then I noticed that he was giving a different talk each day! Trying to stay calm (and trying to listen to the Holy Spirit so I knew when to stop talking), I encouraged my small group to see the first talk in his series, being given on this night - his introduction to the Theology of the Body (even though you can get it for free from his web site at http://www.christopherwest.com/). Apparently, my excitement didn't scare them off and they decided to go!

We left the St. James train station, viewed the outside of the recently renovated, St. Mary's Cathedral (you could only get in if you signed up for a tour) while enjoying the sounds of a nearby concert featuring traditional and contemporary world dance. The Sydney Tower was near by so we went inside to see if we could go up to its top. Because the line was so long we decided to purchase tickets (which could be saved for a few months before using) and come back at a more opportune time, later in the week. That actually took a lot out of us and, since we didn't go up, it felt like a waste of time (considering all of the other stuff going on around the city). We continued towards Darling Harbor where the convention center is, enjoying the city along the way and trying not to loose track of each other in the crowds. We got to the convention center before a certain workshop, but realized it wasn't going to cover what we thought it was and also learned that it was being recorded and would be available online - at a new, world-wide social networking site for Catholics, http://www.xt3.com/ - so we went outside to have supper.

Now, the interesting thing about the way meals are delivered is that you have to have six meal tickets to get your bags of food (one thermal bag for the stew and one regular bag for the rest). So we searched for a group of two and found a couple of college ladies from the Midwest. We ate with them, enjoying their outgoing nature and great humor. They were planning on going to the Christopher West talk as well, so, after supper, we all went back into the convention center and sat right outside the doors to the room his talk would be held. As time went on, it became very crowded in hall as others gathered around waiting for the doors to open. It reminded me of being in front of the exhibit hall doors at a gaming convention just before they opened. Soon a chaotic sprint would ensue if crowd control did not say something. It was exciting. I have no idea how long we were there - it had to be well over an hour. Groups were singing and shouted uplifting chants to keep themselves entertained. When the doors opened, the crowed flooded in - relatively behaved, I might add - and Mike Mangione and his band took the stage first. In the middle of one of their songs, I saw Christopher West walk across the stage, sit behind the empty drum set and begin to play along with them. That was such and awesome and unexpected moment for me to witness because I know that it must have been a blessing for him to get that chance. Anyone who has heard Mr. West's talks, knows how much he loves music.


The Theology of the Body is the title given to the 129 talks from Pope John Paul II during the first six years he was pope (1979 - 1985). He talks about our sexuality and it's relationship with God. How we get a better understanding of God by understanding our sexuality as a gift from the Divine. Here are a few snippets I pulled out of my notes:

Why did God make us male and female? Partially because God is a fan of relationship. Read Ephesians 5:31-32 to get what JPII sees as a summary of everything God wants to tell us about who we are. Our maleness/femaleness is a sign/image of God's Love/Unity in Heaven. What are at the bookends of the Bible? Genesis begins with the wedding of Adam and Eve while Revelation ends with the wedding between Christ and His Church. More than any other analogy used in the Bible is the "spousal analogy." Take the Gospel story of the woman at the well. The woman came to the well with a physical thirst and God used that to point to her spiritual thirst. That is because erotic love (eros) is meant to point to divine love (agape). What is true love?
1) Free - "They do not take my life, I lay it down freely"
2) Faithful - "I will never leave you."
3) Fruitful - "I came into this world so that you may have life, and have it to the full."
4) Total - "Everything the Father has given me, I've given you."

It was great to see Christopher West in this particular setting. On the train ride back to Campbelltown we even discussed it a little as we went around and stated what stood out to us.

World Youth Day Journal: Theology of the Body

World Youth Day Journal: Opening Mass

Tuesday, July 15th: I had a very long, cold, and restless night on a hard floor. I probably woke up to turn on the timed heaters about five times (because I only turned them on halfway each time...oops). Those of us who shared the same classroom floor during the night stuck together throughout the day. We went to K-mart to purchase items we needed. Some bought towels, some bought pillows. I bought a below-freezing sleeping bag, like I had planned to do the day before, but little did we know that all stores close before 6pm. Even K-mart and Target. After our purchases we hopped a bus back to the school and the bus driver graciously agreed to wait for us to quickly drop off our stuff and return so that we didn't have to wait for the next bus to take us to the train station. His name is Mario, he loves to laugh (especially at his own jokes), and I believe he had a photo on the dash of himself standing next to his race car!

We went into Sydney (to St. James train station) and walked to the Entertainment Center, near Tumbalong Park and Darling Harbor, because that's where we were told our group would have our morning catechesis the following three days. I wanted to be prepared. By that time it was mid-afternoon, so we headed past Darling Harbor to get to the area the Opening Mass was to be held. We had a really long walk but it was a great, first experience to file in with the thousands of pilgrims as we flooded into Barangaroo. We were designated to enter the area through gate 1 - at the very tip of the peninsula. We could barely see the roof of the stage where Mass was to be held.

We grabbed lunch, which was impressive - beef pot pie - found our spots, said grace, ate, and waited for Mass. *Aside: I still consider myself new to praying before I eat, so it was a hurdle for me to bring it up in front of the peers I recently met. But a simple, "Shall we pray?" led to an instant, affirming response. I constantly ask myself, in so many areas of my life, "Marcus, why do you hesitate?"

I'm guessing that, because we were outdoors and so far away from the altar, that's why it took a long time for the crowd around us to settle down and focus as Mass got underway. Once the Liturgy of the Word began, all was relatively calm. During the Liturgy of the Eucharist, it was interesting to see the different cultures kneeling and getting up at slightly different times of the prayer. Distribution of the Eucharist was not as organized as I thought it would be. Interestingly, my section was actually distributing Him before the pope was done with the prayer and had consumed the Eucharist himself. The areas that were farthest away from the altar seemed to get done before those nearer the altar, so perhaps it was planned that way to accommodate the sheer numbers. I'm not sure.

After Mass we got an impressive supper - a very tasty stew brought in thermal lunch bags for us to keep. That warmed me up a bit (as I had forgotten my sweatshirt and coat in Camden and the winter sun had set a while ago by then). Following supper was a huge concert, ended by fireworks, so I knew that once I started jumping around, I would also stay warm. However, but the others in the group were also getting cold and they were still adjusting to the timezone and were quite tired. The day before was very long for them. So we took the long walk back to Central Station, hopped on the 1.5 hr train ride back to Campbelltown, and caught the 15 minute bus ride back to the school for a much better night's sleep.

World Youth Day Journal: Opening Mass

World Youth Day Journal: And So It Begins

Monday, July 14th: Fr. Paul (the group leader who picked me up from the airport) and I went to pick up the rest of the group at the airport early in the morning. While waiting, I saw Fr. Leo Patalinghug arrive. I don't normally get "star-struck" but I wasn't expecting him, so I couldn't stop smiling. Ever since I first saw his web site, www.gracebeforemeals.com, I was impressed. Here's a busy man who is using as many of his talents as he can to spread the Word of God! Cooking, Tae Kwon Do, break dancing, and more. He's an inspiration and a joy. Like I said, when I saw him appear in the airport, I couldn't stop smiling. I think I weirded-out the old lady sitting next to me! I wanted to run up to him and shake his hand but I also didn't want to confuse or scare him. Besides, I could tell his primary concern was to find his ride from the airport. I didn't see anybody holding a sign with his name so I knew I wasn't going to be much help to him and let him be.

When the Iowa group got in, we took the train to Campbelltown, then the bus to our host, Mary Magdellan Catholic College (high school), in Camden. We were greeted by the principal and received our WYD backpacks, pilgrim guides, and other swag (Stuff We All Get). Very cool! We picked which classrooms were were going to call our home for the next week and then Fr. Paul brought us back into Sydney (always on the train) to grab some food and then walked to Mary's (same friend him and I stayed over at the night before). It was great to see the place during the day and we all went around to her backyard on the waterfront. Beautiful scenery & very relaxing. I noticed an airplane just drew a cross in the clear sky and then everyone watched as it spelled "JESUS". Talk about spreading the Word so the whole town could see it! That was great to watch the lost art of sky-writing.

Soon afterwards, the group naturally began to talk amongst themselves to determine what everyone wanted to do for the remainder of the day. The group I decided to tag along with wanted to get used to the city a bit more so we got on the train, went from North Sydney to Circular Quay (sounds like "key"), and walked down to see the Sydney Opera House. We took some pictures and I grabbed some near-by German guys to be in the photo with me - I need to take pictures with random tourists more often...


My "mini-group" then continued through the streets, away from the harbor, some looking specifically for a pub the locals frequent. Of course, anything remotely near the harbor was going to be too "touristy". So they finally asked some workers who must have been on break and they were happy to help - real friendly and easy to talk to. Certainly, the places they mentioned were too far away for the moment so the group settled for some beers at the place next door.

Once I knew where they'd be for a while, I back-tracked to the museum we just passed. Admission, normally $5, was free for us pilgrims! I only had 30 mins before it closed though. It was small but interesting. Their history reminds me a lot of America's history - even our styles in the 1950's were similar...

I returned to the pub and the group was ready to leave, but a local guy came through and started to talk to us (our backpacks easily revealing that we were pilgrims). He offered to buy everyone a round so we stayed and chatted some more. Now, many of you know that I don't drink...and some may think it's rude to order water when a drink has been offered...so I upped the anty and ordered a glass of water...on the rocks. That made everyone laugh and continue with their conversations! Every time I got to speak with someone from Australia I asked the same questions, "How excited are the people of Sydney to host WYD? Or are we just a nuisance because of the closed roads, packed train stations, etc?" I always got roughly the same answer: "I'm sure some are bothered by it and there has been some dispute over the fact that the city is putting a lot of money into an event that is seen as exclusively for one branch of one religion. There are also doubts about the actual amount of people that would show up. But, overwhelmingly, the buzz of WYD has caused a lot of positive energy in the city and we know it's pretty big to say we can hold these large international events." ~This is not a specific quote from one person, but a generalized statement of the viewpoints. Again, these are great people to talk with!

World Youth Day Journal: And So It Begins

World Youth Day Journal: Getting There

Ever since I was in third grade, I've wanted to go to Australia. Recently, the Church has given me a phenomenal reason to make the 20 hour flight. For the next several days, I will share my experience with you - I will even expand on what I originally put in my journal. My name is Marcus Knecht and I am a young adult board member in Omaha, NE.

What is World Youth Day? It's a celebration of the youth in the Church (geared towards the teens on up to the mid-30 age range), but is frequented by all ages. Although your dioceses may (or may not) celebrate it locally every year, it's only every 3 years (roughly) that it's celebrated as a pilgrimage to one, varying location. Toronto, Canada hosted it in 2002. Cologne, Germany in 2005. And in 2008, the beautiful metropolis on the harbor: Sydney, Australia hosted the largest event in the history of the "Land Down Under." Although a relatively small crowd compared to other World Youth Days in the past, this pilgrimage was larger than the Olympics in 2000 for Sydney!

My travel itinerary was different than the rest of the group I registered with as I was a late registrant. The group was gathered by Fr. Paul Strittmatter, a Jesuit at St. Patrick parish in Dunlap, IA (and two other surrounding communities). I left Thursday, July 10th and returned Friday, July 25th. This first post will conclude with my reflections on those days leading up to the start of World Youth Day:

The more I travel, the more surreal the traveling gets. The more I land in a new country, the less real it seems. Each airport seems like the last and each city doesn't immediately stand out as its own. Maybe I was just overly sleepy this time...or maybe it was because I was traveling alone... At least one thing doesn't get old: Flying. I still love everything about flying. The g-force from the take off; watching the land get smaller and smaller, seeing it from a new perspective; flying at the same level with the clouds and then rising above and seeing the sun shine on the tops of them; the turbulence; the landing and slowing down as quickly as possible. I love it all - except the sore neck from constantly looking out the poorly placed windows. I even enjoy the layovers.

July 10: My route to Sydney, Australia for World Youth Day took me from Omaha, to Denver, to San Fransisco, to an overnight stay in Honolulu, Hawaii. Let's pause here. I stayed in Hawaii. How did that happen?! Unfortunately, I was too tired to effectively think straight about enjoying it properly. We landed before the sun went down, but I never got to a location to watch it set. I got to the hotel about 8pm local time (after about 9.5-10 hours of flying) and fatigue started to set in. Hunger kept me going but it wasn't enough to ask smart questions like, 'how can I get to Waikiki?' Oh well, what I did eat was local and tasty. I am sad I didn't get outside of Honolulu because, aside from the palm trees, it seemed like most other cities I've been to. I admit it is an unfair assessment because of my tiredness and limited time.

July 11: I overslept by 30mins but still enjoyed a typical American continental breakfast with several servicemen and their families - there seemed to be a big conference, or something, for the Army. I did get to enjoy the Hawaii skyline (sans the skyscrapers to muck it up) while at the terminal and then it was onto an airbus for a 10 hour flight to Sydney. I got to watch 'National Treasure 2' and enjoyed it, much like I did the first one. It's just a fun movie.

July 12: I arrived in Sydney, Australia about 4pm local time - and luckily customs let me in! My passport expires in November because I first got it when I was a Junior in high school. Needless to say, the picture barely looks like me anymore. I had a smaller forehead back then and no beard. At any rate, it's winter time in Australia so the sun was already lowering when I arrived, but I still didn't get to see it set. I immediately found my ride but we stayed and chatted as we waited for two others to arrive as well. My first Australian meal was a toasted croissant from the airport. Traveling to our sleeping quarters, a Jesuit boarding school, I got to see, off in the distance, the Opera House all lit up in the dark sky/harbor!

July 13: This morning I woke before the sun rose. Still tired, I debated getting up to wait for the sun rise. Luckily, I did. So quite (except for the cool birds), so peaceful, so beautiful.



This Jesuit school was one of the hosts to the Magis program and coincidently had received the WYD Cross and Icon the day before. Sunday morning we had a jubilant, multicultural celebration of the Mass with these two staple WYD items. I wish I brought my camera that morning. I even watched as they packed up the Cross and Icon and carried them off to their next pilgrimage location. No fanfare for their departure, just a neat and humble experience altogether. Later that night they held a multi-cultural event like I've never experienced. Almost every country was give time to presented a skit, traditional or modern song/dance, poem, etc. With traditional clothing warn by most, it was a learning experience that allowed me to truly appreciate the beauty of culture and the importance of knowing where you come from. I praise God that there are moments like these that let the Univeral Church come together as a shining example of its unity.

World Youth Day Journal: Getting There

Kay remembers the Pope in USA!

Christ, Our Hope!
The Pope's Travels
USA and Australia!

As I reflect on the wonderful opportunity I had to be at the Papal Mass in Yankee Stadium, it is hard for me to separate it from the context of my overall visit to New York City. (The only other time I’d been to NY was about 10 years ago when we had a 4 hour layover on our way to Medjugorje. My sister, Michele, picked us up from the airport and brought us to her apartment in Manhattan for a quick lunch and glimpse of the city.) This trip, however, was a gift from many members of my family who committed themselves to making sure it was to be a memory to last a lifetime.
I’ve been told that those who love you most know the dreams of your heart and yearn to make those dreams come true. I’ve experienced that over and over in my life and once again, through this pilgrimage. It began with my son, Brendan, who cashed in all his frequent flyer miles to surprise me at Christmas with a round trip ticket for the week the Pope would be in New York. My son, my own Augustine, who has strayed from the faith he was nurtured in, sacrificed his own vacation miles to enable me to be with our Holy Father. What love! My “Monica heart” dedicated the pilgrimage to him. In addition to Brendan’s sacrifice, my beautiful Gallagher family chipped in to give me the gift of an experiential visit to New York that would include all that the city has to offer, like a Broadway show (my dream of 30 years ago as an undergrad Theatre major), sights like the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, beautiful Central Park (which bloomed its most vibrant colors and fragrant scents in honor of Our Papa), the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and much, much more! I had the most caring and knowledgeable tour guides in my dear sister, Jenna, her husband, Brian, and my sister, Michele—all of whom sacrificed time from busy jobs and schedules to treat me like a VIP. What love! Back home, my dear Rob kept the home fires burning, the carpool running, and the blood sugars steady. Mum and Dad gave my family dinner and kept constant vigil for me. My Monday night prayer group, Paula, Julie, and Liz, offered their prayers; my Pro Sanctity family offered their prayers; the CEC community offered their prayers. What love!
The Vicar of Christ came to us also in a spirit of love, embodying the words of his first encyclical, God is Love and the impact of his visit was an enduring sense of HOPE! He confounded the secular media, who expected stern rhetoric and admonition, and instead offered us words of healing, guidance, and promise. His countenance was one of genuine care, devotion, joy, and warmth.
What made the greatest impression on me, was observing the tremendous effect his visit had on US! Love demands a response, whether it be rejection, reciprocity or something in between. I marvel at the whole-hearted response of Americans. We have not become so jaded that we scoff or dismiss an extended hand, instead, we responded like little children delighting in the loving attention of our Father.
I especially rejoiced in the receptivity of New Yorkers. Benedict’s visit was like a soothing balm to weary souls. My brother-in-law, Brian, (who is also a military brat and therefore well-traveled) commented on living in New York by saying that, “Everything is harder here.” I thought his words summed up my own observations very well, with all due respect to my family and friends who live there; life is not easy in NYC. Most apparent is the incredible expense of everything. In Nebraska, we would never think to stand in line for TWO HOURS (no exaggeration) for a hamburger as we did at the Shake Shack but that is exactly what we and many, many others did because “cheap and cheerful” restaurants are hard to find in Manhattan. (It was delicious, by the way, and I have to admit their French fries even rivaled those of Runza!) To go anywhere, one usually must navigate public transportation (private vehicles are expensive to park, if you can find a space—Brian’s was stolen the second day after he moved to the city). The subways are filthy and the gypsy cabs are often driven by people who have no knowledge of the city. Once arriving at your subway stop, you can usually count on a long walk still to get to your destination. People move like herds through the streets and waiting in long lines is typical. I was surprised to see how many New Yorkers owned dogs—but their life isn’t easy either. I walked my sister’s dog around the block, expecting to find a small patch of grass for him (none) and desperately tried to keep his little paws off broken glass but shards were everywhere. New York is an amazingly dazzling place to visit but it would be difficult to live there. How appropriate that the theme of this visit would be hope!
My visit included seeing the many sights New York has to offer and one of my favorite experiences was touring Ellis Island. What a remarkable awareness-raiser that was to the plight of the immigrant! As a Cooperative Apostolic Oblate, we have been studying Pope Benedict’s first encyclical, God is Love, throughout the year. We ended the year with our last few sessions devoted to viewing a current world issue (it was Immigration!) through the lens of our Holy Father’s teaching. My Ellis Island visit has come to mind in many hours of reflection since my trip.
I was SO impressed by the extraordinary effort of the Archdiocese of New York, the New York City Police Department and the many, many people who went above and beyond to accommodate the pilgrims who had traveled to the city to see the Holy Father. We certainly felt welcome! There were funny moments, too, like when seeing the jumbo-tron screens on the interstate that read: “Heavy Traffic to Yankee Stadium expected for Sunday. Use Mass Transit.” I can just see the Dept. of Roads workers who came up with that one chuckling amongst themselves!
While walking through Battery Park with my sisters, I was stunned to see friends, Kim and Emily Becker, from Omaha pass by. Who would expect that in a city of over 8 million people, I’d run into someone that I knew! Kim and Emily were with a small group from the Intercessors of the Lamb.
Pope Benedict XVI’s visit to the U.S. was closely followed by many and the response to his addresses has been very positive. My sister and I visited the Apostolic Oblates at the Bethany in Brooklyn and, of course, they were all gathered around the T.V. Sue Miller quipped, “It’s been like this since the Pope landed in America. It’s like the Super Bowl for Apostolic Oblates!” After attending the Mass at Yankee Stadium, I joined my New York family and friends for a dinner at Michele’s and had the opportunity to talk to those who were unable to be at the Mass but were glued to the T.V. They were so happy to have the Holy Father in their midst! In the weeks since my visit, I’ve had many friends who have poured over his talks while in the U. S. and they are filled with fresh insights. I’m sure that careful study of the Pope’s words while in the states will yield fruit for years to come.
The coverage afforded by the media actually gave those watching from home a better view than those of us whose seats were in the extreme corner of the left field line on the highest tier. ;-) But I was there!!!
While at the Mass, I offered prayers for each special person in my life (all the dears mentioned above plus many, many more like my sisters in the Institute of Apostolic Oblates; my patient spiritual director, Teresa; our dedicated PS board; friends who mentor and challenge me, like Rita, Bernadette and Jean; priests, like Msgr. Vaccari, Fr. Joe Hannefeldt, Fr. Carl Zoucha, Fr. Frank Jindra, the late Msgr. Kenny who have helped me find my Way; My entire extended family but especially my Aunt Lorraine, whose witness about unconditional love for family shaped me; every apostolate close to my heart (like Pro Sanctity, KVSS, the Pro Life Movement, Ave Maria’s Institute for Pastoral Theology, The Institute for Priestly Formation, OCBS, etc.); my former hair stylist, Jill (who is like a modern day Pierre Toussaint) and many, many more! I prayed for a lifetime of people in my community who have loved me through good times and bad and have inspired me by their own lives to try each day to be more Christ-like.
My trip to New York will long be remembered for so many wonderful sights, delights and insights! I continue to reflect on the many graces received through this experience and my heart is filled with gratitude. It truly was amazing!

Kay Parlor, Local Pro Sanctity Board President, Nebraska

Kay reminds us to pray for Marcus Knecht, our Board member who has been at World Youth Day in Australia!

Kay remembers the Pope in USA!

Let's pray for the Pope in Australia!! BBQ with the Pope!

Spokesman: Pope Ready for Youth Day Sends 2nd Text Message to Pilgrims SYDNEY, Australia, JULY 16, 2008 (Zenit.org).-

Benedict XVI is rested and ready to preside at the World Youth Day events this week in Sydney, says a Vatican Spokesman.Jesuit Father Federico Lombardi told a press conference today that the Pope is well rested, and that the objective of the three days of rest in the center has been achieved.The Pontiff left the Kenthurst Study Center in Sydney where he spent the first days of his trip to Australia resting.From the center the Pope was taken by car to St. Mary's Cathedral House in Sydney, his residence until the end of his apostolic visit, which officially begins tomorrow with the welcoming ceremony at the Government House.

The Holy Father will preside over the events of World Youth Day in Sydney this week. The international gathering will culminate Sunday with an open-air Mass at Randwick Racecourse.Before leaving the Kenthurst center, the Pontiff thanked the directors and staff with a farewell gift of a replica of the mosaic "Mater Ecclesiae." He also blessed the cornerstone of the Kenthurst youth center."The Pope has been very happy in this center. He has been very well," said Father Lombardi.

THE POPE SENDS TEXT MESSAGES!
Before leaving the center, Benedict XVI sent out his daily text message: "the Holy Spirit gave the Apostles & gives u the power boldly 2 proclaim that Christ is risen!

BBQ WITH THE POPE!
– BXVI"BarbecueAround Sydney, pilgrims got a real Australian treat with the Big Aussie Barbecue. Taking place in over 200 venues, over 220,000 slices of Tip Top "Daily Bread" were served with sausages and tomato sauce. World Youth Day ambassador Jared Crouch grabbed the tongs today and served up sausages to pilgrims at the University of Notre Dame, Broadway. If all the 220,000 slices of bread were lined up end to end they would cross the Sydney Harbor Bridge 21 times.

Tomorrow will be "Super Holy Thursday," when the Pope will visit the shrine of Mary MacKillop and then travel down Sydney harbor on a Boat-a-cade, before being welcomed at Barangaroo.

His last event will be an official motorcade from Barangaroo to St. Mary's Cathedral House.

Let's pray for the Pope in Australia!! BBQ with the Pope!

WE LOVE OUR PRIESTS!

News from USA West

We just finished a short but great visit with Don Antonio Ciamei and Fr. Mathew Vellanickal.
Dave and Kay Moynahan took them to Downtown LA, where their visited the new cathedral. Our Pastor Fr. David joined us for dinner., and on Tuesday we borrowed a minivan and we all went to visit Father Mike Murphy in San Diego. There the priests had time to meet and discuss their needs and we Oblates prayed and walked around. After a nice meal at Il Fornanio we headed back home. Father Jude and Msgr. Sullivan joined us for lunch. We had time to stop at the Prince of Peace monastery and Oceanside. They have redone the small chapel and it is nice… The last day, Thankamma invited the Indian priests and friends. We had a great meal and made new friends. Now they are visiting Nebraska, and later New York. Let us keep Don Antonio and Fr. Mathew and all the Sodales in our prayers.

On Sunday, August 3, in the afternoon, we will have Pro Sanctity Picnic.

On Saturday, August 9 at 10:30 a.m. we will have the Ceremony of Promises as Cooperative Oblates of Maria Fontana and Karen Fugate and beginning of formation of Pam Baca, Nikki Cordero, Bernette Garza, Lori Shifflet and Cynthia Urquides.

On Saturday, August 16, we will have a Day of Formation for all the Pro Sanctity Board members, Cooperatives, Oblates, and other Pro Sanctity Members involved in core groups and committees.

WE LOVE OUR PRIESTS!

Benvenuti Fr. Antonio and Fr. Mathew!

The Midwest Pro Sanctity Movement warmly welcomes Fr. Antonio Ciamei, the First General Brother of the Apostolic Sodales from Italy and Fr. Mathew Vellanickal, Apostolic Sodales from India! We are honored to have them with us and invite everyone to accompany them in their visit with your prayers as they visit with the Apostolic Sodales and the Pro Sanctity members in the next few days.

On July 4, 2008, some of our Apostolic Sodales gathered in Monsignor Peter Dunne's home and celebrated a beautiful Mass together. In his homily, Monsignor Dunne reminded us that "Holiness is for everyone! The Apostolic Sodales, however, are called to be particular witnesses of holiness and the priesthood." After Mass, the priests had a joyful lunch where they shared stories, jokes, and insights. Filled with gratitude for both the vocation of the priesthood and the brotherhood that these men share, we are reminded of our own duty and participation that we owe to the Church as members of the Pro Sanctity Movement and the Body of Christ.

In 1982, Bishop Giaquinta gave this reminder:

"What is our duty, our responsibility, especially toward the Priests? To teach this idea of the maximalism is not enough - we must do something for the Priests. First of all, we must PRAY. Through prayer, miracles can happen, situations may change. Secondly, we must help Priest become aware of the principles of the Cenacle, so that they may be helped understand the call that comes from the Cenacle and through this feel a greater love for their priesthood."

Thank you dear priests for your tireless self-giving; for giving us your time, your passion, your gifts, and most importantly the sacraments, especially Jesus in the Eucharist! May God bless you abundantly, Mary, Mother of Trust watch over you, and Servant of God, Bishop Giaquinta intercede for you.

O, Jesus raise up holy priests who spread the message of the Cenacle, who are devoted to your Church and are a leaven of unity for all their brothers.

Benvenuti Fr. Antonio and Fr. Mathew!

Tornado Season at Camp 2008

Camp Fun and Faith 2008 suffered water and mud everywhere after the tornado went through our area. God sent angels to help clean up the mess! Among the many angels were Miss Katie, Miss Margaret and Mr. Greg seen here in the picture. Thank you all seen and unseen who assisted us - especially those who keep us in prayer! We continue to pray for those campers and their families in other areas that suffered loss of life and much damage. We know the Good Lord is with them too.

Blessings and peace, Camp Fun and Faith Staff!

Tornado Season at Camp 2008

Message for the Day of Prayer for Priests - May 30, the Feast of the Sacred Heart

Fr. Doug, Fr. Frank, Fr. Mark, Fr. Carl and Fr. Tom

and Msgr. Dunne

Our Apostolic Sodales

Pro Sanctity prays: Oh Lord, give us holy priests!

Pope Benedict speaks...

Message for Day of Prayer for Priests celebrated May 30, the Feast of the Sacred Heart of Jesus

... We cannot live, we cannot look at the truth about ourselves without letting ourselves be looked at and generated by Christ in daily Eucharistic Adoration, and the Stabat of Mary, "Woman of the Eucharist," beneath her Son's Cross, is the most significant example of contemplation and adoration of the divine Sacrifice that has been given to us.

... Lastly, the Holy Mother of God remains an indispensable foundation of the whole of priestly life. The relationship with her cannot be resolved in pious devotional practice but is nourished by ceaseless entrustment to the arms of the ever Virgin of the whole of our life, of our ministry in its entirety. Mary Most Holy also leads us, like John, to beneath the Cross of her Son and Our Lord in order to contemplate, with her, God's infinite Love: "He who for us is Life itself descended here and endured our death and slew it by the abundance of his Life" (St. Augustine, Confessiones, IV, 12).

... As a condition for our redemption, for the fulfillment of our humanity, for the Advent of the Incarnation of the Son, God the Father chose to await a Virgin's Fiat to an angel's announcement. Christ decided to entrust, so to speak, his own Life to the loving freedom of the Mother: "She conceived, brought forth, and nourished Christ, she presented him to the Father in the temple, shared her Son's sufferings as he died on the Cross. Thus, in a wholly singular way she cooperated by her obedience, faith, hope and burning charity in the work of the Savior in restoring supernatural life to souls. For this reason she is a mother to us in the order of grace" (Lumen Gentium, No. 61).

... Pope St Pius X said: "Every priestly vocation comes from the heart of God but passes through the heart of a mother." This is true with regard to obvious biological motherhood but it is also true of the "birth" of every form of fidelity to the Vocation of Christ. We cannot do without a spiritual motherhood for our priestly life: let us entrust ourselves confidently to the prayer of the whole of Holy Mother Church, to the motherhood of the People, whose pastors we are but to whom are entrusted our custody and holiness; let us ask for this fundamental support.

Message for the Day of Prayer for Priests - May 30, the Feast of the Sacred Heart

Saturday, May 24, 2008

St. Bonaventure Parish
Pastor, Fr. Tom Weisbecker, Apostolic Sodalis
Columbus, Nebraska

Thought for the day ... It is true I am nothing in your sight; I have neither strength nor voice, Lord. But when you let your gaze fall upon me, I bloom beneath your grace and love.
Servant of God, Founder Bishop Giaquinta

A blessed day! Margaret Matthew made her final profession of vows as an Internal Apostolic Oblate and Theresa Gabriel made her final profession of promises as a Cooperative in the Institute of the Apostolic Oblates. The members of the Pro Sanctity Family all renewed their commitments: Apostolic Sodales, Social Animators, Apostolic Oblates and Cooperatives! We thank God for the good work that with His grace and strength we were able to accomplish. Our Founder and Our Lady of Trust were certainly in the midst of it all!

Saturday, May 24, 2008

Spe Salvi - Mary, Star of Hope - Day 25

Apostolic Oblates renew their vows in Fullerton, California on May 10, 2008. They are wearing their beautiful liturgical gown for the occasion. It is a sign of their consecration, their, contemplation and their union with Mary, the first Apostolic Oblate.

Mary, Star of Hope
25. With a hymn composed in the eighth or ninth century, thus for over a thousand years, the Church has greeted Mary, the Mother of God, as "Star of the Sea": Ave maris stella. Human life is a journey. Towards what destination? How do we find the way? Life is like a voyage on the sea of history, often dark and stormy, a voyage in which we watch for the stars that indicate the route. The true stars of our life are the people who have lived good lives.

Reflection by Msgr. Vaccari
How many people have found Mary to be a light when all else seemed to be darkness? Her star shines brightly, even in the night when nothing else seems to shine. St. Bernard spoke beautifully of trusting our journey of life to Mary, with full confidence that if we did so, we would surely find the safe harbor. Her example and her holiness lead the way, always calling us back to the beauty of her son.

What would we do without the "stars" in our darkness. Their lives shine with holiness and their intercession, their witness and their closeness to the Lord are signs of hope in our dark world

Reflection by Teresa Monaghen
...as a little girl I used to like to surround my bed at night with friends: a place for the guardian angel, Mary, St. Therese, and the many other friends of God who knew me. They stood around me like sentinels, protecting me from harm. I realize now that they have never left me and they not only protect they guide and encourage but at every turn, someone turns up and I realize I am never alone. It is true, we are never alone and if we open the eyes of our hearts we will see the light of holiness that comes from the stars, the saints to help guide our path through this stormy world. Thank you, Lord, I trust in you and your friends! Amen.

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Pro Sanctity Movement - Apostolic Oblates
11002 N. 204th St.
Elkhorn, NE 68022
402-289-2670

Thought for the day ... G. Giaquinta
Let us sow goodness and holiness, and we will see barren fields bloom.

Spe Salvi - Mary, Star of Hope - Day 25