Trust Me: I'M LEGIT!

To Whom it May Concern:

This letter is in regard to the suitability and character of the Reverend James T. Baraniak, O. Praem.

Father James T. Baraniak, O. Praem., a Norbertine priest affiliated with Saint Norbert Abbey, DePere, Wisconsin, is a religious priest in good standing in the Norbertine Order. To the best of my knowledge in the external forum, I am of the opinion that Father Baraniak is of good character and reputation. He has faculties to administer his priestly duties and he is qualified to perform his ministerial duties in an effective and suitable manner.

He was ordained to the priesthood on January 3, 1993.

Sincerely,

Rt. Rev. Gary J. Neville, O. Praem.
Abbot -- Saint Norbert Abbey

+ + +

....I suspect that may have caught your attention, huh? As you know from your readings here, I have been on the road for a few weddings lately. Between now and Fall, I'll be venturing out to Chicago, Milwaukee and International Falls for a few more weddings of recent SNC graduates as well as my nephew, Nathan. I am fully aware that I am a guest in someone else's church when I'm presiding on the road, so I certainly have no problem abiding by the rules of the house. Certainly, the pastors and wedding coordinators at the churches I've visited for the nuptials thus far this summer have certainly been welcoming and accommodating. And yet, there is one issue that seems to be enforced quite fervently this summer (which I have not noticed to such an exulted degree in previous summers). In order to seek delegation (permission for a visiting priest to preside at a church where he is not formally assigned) one must offer "proof of priesthood" these days. Minus the Abbatial bling on his formal stationary, you can see what Abbot Neville has forwarded to me -- in bulk -- in order to gain such delegation for these weddings over the summer months.

There is a part of me that thinks that this is a lot of nonsense -- for-pastors-to-ask-wedding-coordinators-to-ask-visiting-priests-to-ask-their-major-superiors-for-such-documentation --seems a little much, doesn't it? It's easy to think, if I show up in clerical garb with vestments in tow and can do a convincing job at preaching and presiding, what more proof do you need? Well, not so fast!

In my work with Catholic Athletes for Christ, I have heard ample horror stories of "faux-priests" showing up to take Masses for various sports teams. Given these are teams visiting cities where they do not know the local clergy, such a circus side show can easily go unnoticed. Players and coaches alike have been stunned when they learn that the guy who just presided at Mass is not really a priest at all! In some cases, non-denominational ministers are simply finding other ministers (of whatever religion) to respond to the needs of the Catholic population in a city that a team is visiting; sometimes it's hotel personnel making the arrangements. We've heard that in some cases, former priests are showing up to preside at Mass -- priests who have had their faculties stripped long ago -- for whatever reason whatsoever. And as was the case with the Philadelphia Eagles a few years back, a certain guy was simply posing as a priest to address the needs of the team -- -- -- for three years!?! You think Mike Ditka was animated on the sidelines, or Bobby Knight at the edge of the hardwood? I've personally heard an NFL coach come somewhat undone when he shares the story of a pseudo priest hearing his confession before a team Mass! Completely crazy!

All of a sudden, "proof of priestly purchase" doesn't sound so bad.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S6YxlaA0jnM

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Seeing Red in Cyberspace!

Checked out Zach's work yet?

How about Francis Cardinal George,

also new to this forum.

Check out his thoughts:

www.archchicago.org/blog

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He'll Smoke This Site, For Sure!

He replied to one of my recent posts as simply, "exactlyZACH" and I knew it had to be Zach Parmeter, one of the most clever students to grace our campus in years. I called him to say hello today and he informed me that he'd be blogging as he readies himself for overseas travel for Fall semester.

Zach seems to think that he will not have enough to write about or that he won't have as much coverage as I have -- I beg to differ. Just wait to see the creative stuff he'll be adding to his site. Our conversation earlier today seems to be one such occassion where scripture comes to mind:

"A student is not above his teacher, nor a servant above his master (Matthew 10:24)."

Zach just might challenge that sacred sentiment! Let's watch and see... ... ...

www.exactlyzach.blogspot.com

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If I Weren't in Phoenix this Weekend, I'd be in Spokane!

Over the years, David Kuttner has been a frequent guest at Saint Joseph Priory. Often for a retreat, sometimes simply for a little time off, David would quietly fold into our way of life.

David became familiar with us due to the hospitality and mentoring of Father Tim Shillcox. Tim met David while on sabbatical several years ago. Not surprisingly, many of the seminarians that got to know Tim would seek him out for spiritual direction. Tim continues to maintain a close relationship with many of these guys -- we are blessed in Community Life whereby Tim's friends quickly become our friends!

Father Tim spent much of the past week at Saint John Abbey out in Collegeville where I believe the two first met. Tim had the blessed privilege of directing David's ordination retreat. Tim left today for Spokane to attend the ordination on Friday. At the same hour, Tim will take part in an ordination of a very good man; I'll be presiding in Phoenix at the wedding of an equally blessed couple. God's Grace knows no geographical bounds this weekend, for no matter where one goes, "God's flock is in your midst!" On Sunday morning at Mass, I'll be thinking of and praying for David and his family -- perhaps you can do the same while also thinking of JJ and Laura and their families. Being Church for and with one another, let's "Give them a shepherd's care!"

Our Lady of Lourdes Cathedral, Spokane.

(Although it looks just like St. Francis Xavier Cathedral, Green Bay!)



And now, from the Office of Communications of the Diocese of Spokane:

On Friday, June 26, at Our Lady of Lourdes Cathedral, Bishop William Skylstad will ordain three men to the priesthood for the Diocese of Spokane: Deacons David Kuttner, Matthew Larsen, and Kevin Oiland.

Deacon David Kuttner’s hometown is Spokane, where he grew up in St. Thomas More Parish. His parents are Dave and Bernadine Kuttner, and he has a brother and sister, both of whom are married with families. Deacon Kuttner graduated from Mead High School in 1987. He earned a B.S. degree in Physical and Health Education from Eastern Oregon State College, in LaGrande, Ore. Before entering Bishop White Seminary in 2001, for four years he taught special education in mathematics at a public high school in Hoquiam, Wash., where he also coached baseball. For one year, prior to entering Bishop White, he did graduate studies in Theology at St. John University, College-ville, Minn.

During his deacon year in Rome, Deacon Kuttner worked in university ministry with architecture students from the University of Notre Dame. He also made two trips during this year, one at Christmas, the other at Easter, to Ethiopia and Lithuania respectively, where he lived and worked with the Missionaries of Charity. He also served as a deacon during this year at two Missionaries of Charity houses in Rome.

The Missionaries “have been a constant witness to me of the spiritual gift of ‘poverty,’ which they live so deeply in their total dedication to the poorest members of the human family,” Deacon Kuttner said. “Their presence and influence this year has changed my life and heart, and I am grateful we have the Sisters in our own Diocese of Spokane.”

“As a priest, I look forward to simply praying with people and being an instrument through which people come to deeply experience Christ’s personal love for them, especially in and through the gift of prayer,” he said. “As for what I might find most challenging as a priest, I would imagine it would be to suffer in love on behalf of others, especially those God is calling me to serve in the parish.”

Following ordination, Father Kuttner will be assigned as Parochial Vicar to his home parish of St. Thomas More, in Spokane.

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Michael at His Best!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AtyJbIOZjS8

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Thinking of You From Afar!

Greetings from hot and sunny -- but not so steamy -- Phoenix, Arizona where yesterday the mercury rose to an intense 108 degrees! The site above is my home away from home for the next few days as I am preparing to preside and preach at the wedding of JJ Jansen and Laura Bliss. Notre Dame, Packer and Panther fans will know him as a pretty decent long snapper. DePere faithful will know him as a regular worshiper at Old Saint Joe's at Saint Norbert College. Local friends will not know Laura as well considering she has been hard at work here in the Phoenix area, getting ready for the move out to the Carolinas.

Given the Jesuits and Holy Cross priests JJ befriended at his Alma Maters, Brophy Prep and Notre Dame University, I feel blessed to partake in the beautiful days JJ and Laura are experiencing out here in the desert.

I departed from DePere early Wednesday morning and flew into O'Hare ahead of schedule and without a hitch. While waiting in the airport to depart for Phoenix, I almost bumped into Frank Luntz [literally] as we both were both engaged in cell phone conversations. You Fox News junkies might know Frank as the guy who wrote "Words that Work" who also gained popularity in tracking folk's reaction to presidential candidates' speeches leading up to last fall's elections.


I must admit, I am relieved that we do not know each other. I can just imagine him hooking up my parishioners to those suction cups and wires that -- like a lie-detector-test -- assesses people's reaction to a given presentation.


In this case, I'd hate to see the graphs plummet as I -- seldomly -- stretch the homily beyond 10 minutes in duration! I think Frank would diplomatically tell me that the parishioners are with me up to 7 minutes, but after that, all bets are off! Well, we started to board the plane, pretty much on time. Here's where life gets a little dicey!





As we taxied out to the runway, I closed my eyes for a bit, just trying to get a few minutes of rest when I was disturbed by a loud crackling noise -- a noise that sounds like a throng of mosquitoes running into a giant bug-zapper, or a gas stove that's just not turning over! This is followed by some pretty loud reactions from the guys seated in row 24. As luck would have it, I am seated in 24F! I heard plenty, but what I did not experience was the sight of an early but isolated 4th of July celebration at the base of our seats: fireworks without the joyful and approving "oohs" and "aahs!"

I did not join in on the discussion with the flight attendants given I was trying to get a little sleep-eye when the display was in full bloom. Yet it was alarming enough that the the plane took a lap around the tarmac and made its way back to the gate with the pilot calmly announcing, "flight attendants, please prepare for arrival!" I found his words to be assuring and comforting and disturbing and alarming all at the same time -- in actuality, the expression almost seemed somewhat comical as well given you normally hear those words only after a couple of hours, not minutes! The pilot then alerted the customers to the concerns of the men in Row 24 [that's me!] and so we're parking this baby long enough to check it out.

Frayed and exposed wires! ? !

Given the situation which caused such an uproar was settled with a little back electrical tape found in any one's kitchen junk drawer, I felt a good "Act of Contrition" was in order. 50 minutes later, we were once again flying the friendly skies! All would go well until the descent into Phoenix. While all looked well, I learned that there is an interesting phenomenon in Phoenix. It seems as though there is great turbulence in landing when the weather is as hot as it is. JJ told me that those who fly smaller planes tend to do so before 10 AM because landings in the heat can be pretty sketchy. Given the Pack begins and ends this year's flying season on August 28 and January 3 en route to the Cardinals, I'll have to remember to eat lightly. So too will the young girl in 22A who lost her cookies upon our landing! At that point, given I began the flight with a simple prayer, I decided to conclude the flight with one as well: "Mother of God, get me off this ride!"




Minus the helmet and pads, JJ was at the doors waiting for my arrival. As always, he's the total gentleman; filled with pride, he would offer me a tour of suburban Phoenix as we would make our way to the Biltmore. The first stop would be to show me Laura's Alma Mater, Xavier College Prep. Quite the beautiful place -- it looks more like a castle than a high school! The place has graduated many great women who have gained great prominence, I have learned; Laura is one such gifted woman.

Just down the street, we would continue on to Brophy Prep where the wedding will take place on Friday. I was intrigued by the outdoor lockers and the outdoor mall where the students often eat lunch throughout the academic year. ".....We're not in Wisconsin anymore!"


Unfortunately, all of the doors to the school were locked, so I'll have to wait a few more hours until I see the chapel. But I did do a little research. This is what I found:

It's a beautiful looking place -- just like the outside, just like Xavier College Prep and nearby Saint Francis Xavier Church. One of the aspects of the beauty is that the place is air-conditioned. (I see the Luntz-meter getting ready to plummet in anticipation of a longer homily on Friday!)

To pass the time today and Friday, I have been walking all over the place. Family and friends from home have been asking me about the heat. Actually, I suspect it's more pleasant here than back in Wisconsin. Don't get me wrong, there certainly is an intensity with the 108 degree heat out here -- bit it is very dry -- like placing your body in an oven verses placing your body in a broaster -- like back in Wisconsin over the past few days.

In fact, while walking to the mall today it started to rain. Normally, I'd head for cover to "get out of the rain" as the song goes, but the rain actually felt so refreshing. Even people in business suits seemed to completely ignore the rain -- either they also thought that it felt so good or -- as locals -- they know it will be dry again in no time. Either way, it's making for a pretty pleasant experience.

As I close this chapter for now, I'll continue to rejoice in the desert -- and in the rain!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k0KKGdb4qUY&feature=related

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May the Real Angels Lead You Into Paradise!

Given we were both products of the 70's, I cannot believe that my brother or I did not display that familiar image on our bedroom walls as did many other young guys in the late 70's and early 80's. Life stood still as most guys my age would watch Jill Munroe and the other Charlie's Angels take over the tube at 9:00 PM on Wednesday nights on ABC TV. Farrah seemed to be the inspiration behind all sorts of young women feathering their hair in a similar angelic sort of look.

Did you realize that Farrah was a devout Roman Catholic? It is rumored that her Mass of Christian Burial will take place in the Los Angeles Cathedral -- ironically named, "Our Lady of the Angels," situated in the heart of the "City of Angels."



Between all those beauty aid commercials, "Angels" and "The Battle of the Network Stars," Farrah made TV watching an adventure for young guys. She would loose her battle with cancer earlier this morning. Farrah, "May the Angels lead you into paradise, may the Martyrs come to welcome you and take you to the Holy City, the new and heavenly Jerusalem!"

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A Face Created for RADIO!

After a couple of weeks of planning, I took to the air waves this morning at 9:00 AM. Just about a year ago, some producers of Catholic Radio Chicago approached me at the Relevant Radio headquarters in Green Bay, asking if I would be willing to be a recurring guest on a Chicago-based extension of Relevant Radio's programming in the Windy City. Last year I presided over several Masses for Relevant Radio which were broadcast nationally. Well it seems as though the Archdiocese of Chicago taps into the national programming for their own local programming on occasion. The set up: to engage in a debate, I mean CONVERSATION, with Scalabrini Father Nick Marro, the Catholic chaplain for "da Bears." Today was the anticipated day of finally airing the program -- live.

I made sure I closed the door of my priory room, turned off the ringer on my office telephone line, muted the TV, and shut off the air conditioning. I was poised and ready to go. The telephone call from the producer came at about 8:56 AM and he told me that we'd be going live soon. Before I knew it, it was Francis Cardinal George on the other end of the call -- or sort-of! I heard his familiar voice come over the phone stating, "This is Francis Cardinal George, Archbishop of the Chicago Catholic Archdiocese. I'd like to welcome you to the following live program... ... ..." Guess what, it was his pre-recorded stock greeting to the weekly program! I am sure his regular listeners knew the routine. For some reason, I just imagined it was he on the other side of the phone call conversation! Not today!

Given the hours of sleeplessness last night -- was is the heat and humidity or stage freight? -- I must say the event went without a hitch. .....Although, it was VERY ONE SIDED. As one who's accustomed to "Fair and Balanced" reporting (!), Father Nick was introduced with the "Bear, Down, Chicago Bears" song in the background. I was introduced in total silence! I asked where my cheery music was -- no such luck!

The conversation was quite pleasant, but lasted for just 10 minutes before breaking for a commercial. Upon our return, we went live as the next segment was re-introduced with that same nasty song serving as the bumper to introduce Part II. The host continued as he gave credit to the 1985 rendition of the 1941 fight song as he re-introduce his two guests stating, "Father Jim, I have an image of you dancing to that music at your Saint Norbert College office!" In return, I offered my condolences that they would have to go all the way back to 1985 in order to find some cheerful Bears tunage! Even Father Nick got a kick out of that one!

Obviously, most sports-fans' minds are on baseball these days. In fact, I hope to get to Miller Park once July arrives to cheer on our other local team! Having been in the minority earlier today, I did get to Hinkle Field for our first mini-Camp of the season. The coaches and team looked great! On Wednesday night, the great diaspora will take place as players and coaches head out for summer vacations. In anticipation of their arrival back to summer training camp, I've been asked to re-appear on the radio program with Father Nick as the NFL Sunday Kickoff with da Bears takes place. Until then, let's continue to pray for the Chicagoans' conversion -- our SNC students included!

Entering the airwaves in Chicago, I did not feel intimidated, but perhaps just a bit lonely. Here's some inspiration from some friends closer to home:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OSc1koUyEYo

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Catholic Connections Count!

I received a phone call early Thursday morning alerting me that some friends of mine were experiencing some difficult days. The issue seemed important enough that I thought I should meet up with them as soon as possible. I was not sure that I'd be able to offer any tangible assistance; nevertheless, I simply wanted to be there for them amidst their need. As I eluded to earlier, these have been some pretty intense days given we've had back-to-back first year summer orientation sessions all week long. Thursday (that night) would be the only night that was open all week. I decided to clear my afternoon schedule and head west as quickly as possible.

By 1:30 I was able to hit the road and make my trek to the Twin Cities via Highways 29 & 94. I had so much work to get done, nonetheless, so I was able to do so with the assistance on my cell phone even though I lost the majority of my contacts several weeks ago in a phone mishap! Further, have you ever tried to maintain a cell phone conversation in Western Wisconsin's Chippewa Valley? Come to think of it, I've never seen in those parts that creepy Verizon guy with all his friends following him! I suppose that's a good thing! My phone call conversations were pretty frustrating and pretty short lived given the weak reception -- perhaps that would be a reminder to keep my eyes on the road and my hands on the wheel. After one last very important call, that would be the case.

While headed west, I really was not certain where I'd end up with the friends who were in need. I had suggested to them that I'd meet in a mall, in a park, in a restaurant -- anywhere where we could have a decent conversation with limited distractions. Now if I were meeting in Chicago, I'd have any number of suggestions for specific meeting places. But because I am not all that familiar with the Twin Cities, I would need to rely on the creativity of the two friends to come up with the perfect spot to meet.

One of the two friends suggested Guardian Angels Catholic Church. Ironically, this is a place with which I have complete familiarity! Years ago during the Lourdes building project, I would venture out to see other church building projects to open my mind a bit about contemporary church architecture. Guardian Angels was adding new to old just as we were, so I've been there several times before. Not only is Guardian Angels quite a massive church structure, but it also celebrates a very impressive liturgy and a great variety of parish offerings. Given it is immediately adjacent to I 94, it would be an "easy off -- easy on" choice to make. Given the church shares a parking lot with a Best Buy, I couldn't think of any better setting!

I called "411" and the operator immediately connected me to Cindy, the parish secretary. I'm sure my plea must have sounded pretty bizarre, but I simply introduced myself, told her where I was from, and asked her if she had any space where I could meet with a couple of friends who could benefit from a little pastoral care. I was surprised by her immediate response; she said, "No problem whatsoever, Father. Our church is your church." Given she'd be away upon the time of my estimated arrival, she told me she would connect me with Denny, the parish administrator.

In all honesty, I did not want to talk with Denny! I had such a decent conversation with Cindy and given I was just offered a green light, I did not want to complicate the issue or compromise the offering! Denny was now connected, so I began my mantra all over again. Denny was every bit as much hospitable as was Cindy. He stated, "Father, we understand these issues. That's why we're here. We have any number of places where you can meet with a couple of friends." Denny offered the entire place for me with the exception of the places where the parish finance council was meeting and where a small wedding rehearsal would take place in the old church, which now serves as the parish's Daily Mass Chapel. I thanked Denny for the offer and I told him I'd look him up when I arrived on the scene.

Thirty minutes later, I would meet both Cindy and Denny. Denny was quite the host while Cindy was rapping up the work of the day, ready to head home. It was with a true sense of pride that Denny gave me a first class tour of the entire church building including the sanctuaries -- old and new -- the quilting supplied by some of the parish "angels," and he showed me his pet project: a newly developing prayer garden at the west end of the church. Once the friends appeared, Denny would quietly disappear. I would not see him again.

The friends and I would then spend the next three hours talking and talking and talking with almost zero distractions. The only distraction was that of the wedding party making their way to and from the Daily Mass Chapel -- it was a welcomed distraction as we noticed the happiness and anticipation on their young faces. As we would begin to wrap up our discussion for the night which would allow me time to get back to DePere in just four more hours, I mentioned how wonderful it was that we were welcomed into the church for our meeting. Everything seemed to work out so well with the space. I couldn't help but think that it was the work of the Holy Spirit that directed us there this past Thursday. In retrospect, perhaps it was our Guardian Angels!

We mentioned how cool it was that being Catholic, we simply had to make a call and the doors were completely opened to us -- open doors, open minds, open hearts. While neither of us were members of this particular parish, Guardian Angels was our church. As Catholics, wouldn't we expect such a welcome from a church like this? Yes! But it does not always happen, as I've encountered many times before. I now began to realize why Guardian Angel's present moment would be as blessed as is its 152 year heritage. Cindy and Denny represented not only the best of Guardian Angels, but the best of the Church as well.

Once we exited the church and made our way to the parking lot, I noticed a large piece of paper flapping in the wind which was pinned under my windshield wipers. I wondered if it was a note from Cindy or Denny. One of the friends wondered if it was hate mail from a Vikings fan considering my car not only sports Wisconsin Packer license plates, but a "G" Packer Personnel Parking Pass which dangles below my rear view mirror. I was not as pessimistic as my friend. I did not think a Vikings fan would take the time to find a pen and paper to write me a nasty note telling me to hit the state line and pass quickly beyond the Cheddar Curtain. No, they'd simply "key" my car, or so I osuggested!

As I approached the car, I noticed no damage, just a note which read the following:

Father Jim,
Just wanted to say hi to good old 'JB;'
didn't want to interrupt your meeting in church.
Great to see you if only for a wave hello.

Hope all is well!
Say hi to SNC for me!
I'll see you in the Fall.

Take Care!
Jenna Metelak
Class of 2010

Two friends seeking God's grace;

a new friend offering a note of kindness;

two strangers becoming friends in Christian hospitality:

Angels abound in Eastern Minnesota.

Catholic Connections Count!

"God's flock is in your midst;

give it a shepherd's care!"


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=73KIIOBCfK0

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POPE BENEDICT DECLARES "YEAR OF PRIESTS" BEGINNING TODAY

Pope Benedict XVI has declared a “Year for Priests” beginning with the Solemnity of the Sacred Heart of Jesus on June 19, 2009. The year will conclude in Rome with an international gathering of priests with the Holy Father on June 19, 2010.

With the announcement of this Year for Priests, the Pope has declared St. John Vianney the Universal Patron of Priests on the occasion of the 150th anniversary of the death of the Curé d’Ars.

Please pray for our priests that they might always be faithful to their sacred calling:

Most gracious Heavenly Father,
We thank you for our faithful priests and bishops,

whose spiritual fatherhood and example of fidelity,

self-sacrifice, and devotion is so vital to the faith of your people.

May our spiritual fathers be guided

by the examples of Saints Peter and Paul,

all the Apostles and their saintly successors.

Give them valiant faith in the face of confusion and conflict,

hope in time of trouble and sorrow,

and steadfast love for you, for their families,

and for all your people throughout the world.

May the light of your Truth shine through their lives

and their good works.

Assist all spiritual fathers,

that through your Grace

they may steadily grow in holiness

and in knowledge and understanding of your Truth.

May they generously impart this knowledge t

o those who rely on them.

Through Christ our Lord.

Amen.

-- usccb.com

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AS ONE CHAPTER ENDS, A NEW ONE BEGINS: As if I Don't Get Enough of This in REAL Life!

Between Norbertine Chapter meetings, Abbey Dedication Anniversary celebrations, Norbertine funerals, parish weddings and Saint Norbert College First Year Student Summer Orientations one after the next after the next, the post-academic year season has not really slowed down at all yet. Given I'll be headed out for a Packer wedding early next week, I don't think I'll recognize "summer" until the 4th of July -- then it's half over! Nevertheless, I have used the late-night hours as an opportunity to do some reading -- just for fun.

My nephew David was actually the one who recommended a few books for me to consider, "My Bloody Life" and its more current sequel, "Once a King, Always a King." Young David is aware that my ministry at GBCI requires me to work closely with any number of gang members. As such, he thought I'd find the books interesting, and perhaps a bit helpful to me in my ministry as well. Well, I finished "Bloody" in late May, and I just finished "Once a King" earlier tonight.

Normally, it is Dr. Cheryl Carpenter, a Saint Norbert College sociologist, that is the one who usually recommends such reads to me. Given she is pretty current when it comes to urban gang life, she's exposed me to some good books over time. But David was the one to recommend these books. And honestly, I am shocked!

It seems as though these books have appeared on David's high school reading list. The books are chocked full of pretty graphic situations including urban violence and intense sexual encounters. I hope that I do not sound too prudish, but I cannot imagine this sort of educational experience to be advantageous for a 16 year old's educational formation. And yet, I must assert, it has helped broaden my horizons to understand my prison-parishioners experience to a greater degree; I am grateful for David's recommendations.

Whenever I finish reading a book, like you, perhaps, I do feel a sense of accomplishment, but I also feel a sense of loss in some strange way. It seems as though a reader opens his or her world to various characters while reading in quiet settings of undivided attention -- when the book is over, it's although these people with whom you've just spent the last month with have walked out of your life. Finishing these books does have a bit of a bittersweet effect.

And yet, in my ministerial experiences, the story continues in a very real and lively way. I've encountered some inmates with IDENTICAL stories of life on the streets -- mainly from those who have grown up in Chicago or in Milwaukee. Like the characters in the books, they are looking for an out, searching for a new way of life, hoping for a time to start anew; but for various reasons, it seems so true, "Once a King, Always a King!"



At times I run the mistake of "problem solving" when it comes to ministry -- regardless of which ministerial setting is in the immediate spotlight. With the best of intentions, I sometimes dare to imagine what life could be like for my 'parishioners' if I could find jobs and housing and education for all sorts of people whereby they can really find an opportunity to start a new life. Such a life, in my mind, would require them to quarantine themselves from the 'hoods' from which they originally came.

And yet, I have to realize that in doing so, perhaps a new type incarceration would be established for them. I must contemplate, "What if I were banned from Antigo?" "Or DePere?" That would hardly seem fair or appropriate. And yet, it was these communities that healthily molded me or shielded me -- appropriately -- from a life of violence or terrorism. It was a combination of a firm foundation of Family, Friends and Faith that resulted in a pretty good life for me up to now. Can or should similar communities exist elsewhere? Therein lies the challenge, I suspect. Instead of evacuating crime-ridden and poverty stricken neighborhoods, how about investing in these communities instead? And wouldn't it be cool if the Church or the local neighborhood parish church would be the primary stockholder in such an investment? Could we dare to imagine really making a difference in such places in a spirit of openness, hope and courage?

You will notice in my next few posts that I'll be shifting gears just a bit. As you can imagine, just finishing these two books has resulted in my mind running in certain dark, yet hopeful, circles. That seems natural after reading some pretty provocative biographies. I'll soon be covering some different topics as the weekend unfolds. And yet this topic -- like the next ones to come -- is evidence that no matter where you are or what the circumstances you face in your own unique neck of the woods might be, "God's flock is in your midst; give it a shepherd's care!"

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SLEEPERS BEWARE: "Life Immitates Art" Right Here, Right Now!

"I couldn't look at him.

He might look right through

the fear and the shame,

right through to the truth."

Fortunately the film "Sleepers" is now thirteen years old; as a result, it can be purchased for under $10! That's good news considering how many times I've lent out the flic without it returning back to the shelf at home. So I've purchased any number of copies over the years, both watching it and sending it out on loan with great regularity. When you consider Robert DeNiro starring as "Father Bobby," a parish priest in New York's Hell's Kitchen, one might wonder, "Can life get any better than that?"


Well in my mind, being the pastor of a college parish, the chaplain for an NFL football team and a sacramental minister at a maximum security prison comes pretty close to the issues Father Bobby confronts on the streets of inner-city New York on a consistent basis. While life in DePere is much more calm and relaxed on any number of levels, wherever we deal with the human race, there are upsets and losses, failures and tragedies that are woven within our mortal life. Father Bobby's sanctuary extended far beyond the limits of the sacristies and communion rail -- it flowed into the crime-infested streets of New York as well as the state's houses of correction.

Many of you are aware that I can regularly be found at the Green Bay Correctional Institution on many Thursday mornings, presiding over the Sunday-Mass-of-extraordinary-anticipation. For the most part, this consists solely of presiding and preaching at the following Sunday's Mass. Yet often times inmates will fill out a "kite" which is a request for me to stay longer after Mass -- this is usually requested so an inmate can take part in the Sacrament of Reconciliation or be engaged in some sort of spiritual direction. As I find at parishes, sometimes the issues that are raised are not necessarily sinful in nature, but simply it is an opportunity to raise an important issue that a person has a need to talk about. Sometimes it's simply a matter of finding someone who will listen to another's story. Normally I will arrange for a pastoral visit in order to engage in such a discussion. * This will either take place in the family visiting center at GBCI, or for non-inmates, it takes place in my office at Saint Norbert College; these encounters, while often still in 'internal forum,' are not sacramental in nature. And during these encounters it's not out of the ordinary that an important request will be made: asking for me to serve as a character reference in the court system.

These requests have come from inmates, parishioners, professional athletes, high school and college students alike. Like Father Bobby, I, too, often feel torn as to how to respond. Yet I've never said "no" to such a request. Often times it's a request to simply be present in the courtroom -- for moral support -- near a person's side; sometimes it's simply sitting quietly in the larger assembly.

At other times it's a bit more involved, with the request to speak on a person's behalf. I often wonder how I can best articulate a balance between affirmation and challenge; between comforting the disturbed and disturbing the comfortable. Speaking up on one's behalf requires a stand to be taken -- in more ways than one. Like Father Bobby in Sleepers, it is difficult to determine how to best speak the truth in a spirit of honesty and integrity in the midst of the complexity and messiness of life. When do you open your mouth, and when do you keep it closed? Sleepers illustrates so beautifully and painfully how difficult these moments can be.

I often wonder if I could survive as a pastor in parish life if Father Bobby and I were asked to switch pulpits for just a year's duration -- finding myself placing my hand on a Bible while offering my solemn oath to the degree I currently place my hand over people and objects in a gesture of grace and blessing. Moreover, would the faithful's needs be met in such an arrangement? I often toy with the idea of throwing the thought past my Norbertine superiors, yet any number of fears keep me pretty silent. In the meantime, while the ministries in which I engage certainly do not expand my sanctuary into the streets of a major inner-city, I am sometimes amazed at how often I experience the wide variety of pastoral dilemmas in all sorts of venues while ministering to the young and the old, the rich and the poor, the imprisoned and the free -- right here in Northeastern Wisconsin. Such ministry is extended not just to the individuals involved in specific crimes or misdemeanors, but to their families and victims as well.

Sometimes the issues Father Bobby confronted in Hell's Kitchen even take place right here in our neck of the woods. But for some reason, in this family-centered community which is grounded in so much goodness and charity, it's sometimes easier to ignore, avoid or deny some of the situations that really are going on right here in Titletown. Walk into the Brown County Court House. Visit an area high school. Read the police bloggers. "God's flock is in our midst!" Remaining grounded right here, right now, I am challenged and inspired by the words of Willard Jabusch's hauntingly beautiful song which I shared with you two years ago. In his "When we Think how Jesus Suffered," I believe Jabusch challenges us to broaden the boundaries of our sanctuaries and give the folks we find there "a shepherd's care:"

When we leave the cross so lonely on that sad and sacred ground,
we must seek and find our Jesus where today he may be found:
in the clinic, in the prison, near at home or 'cross the sea,
or wherever in deep sadness people wait to be made free.
-- Willard F. Jabusch

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4xvMA6WPoJ0

* I will say more about these gatherings in a future posting.

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"Man, You Smell Like Dirt!"

One might not be surprised to hear that I do not blow money on the most expensive hair-care products. At this point, why?! Had I decided to do that earlier in life, I might not be in the position in which I find myself today! As such, earlier this week I finally came to the end of my seemingly 5 gallon jug of Suave shampoo; it was time to go shopping for all sorts of health care items seeing the shampoo-well had gone dry.

I've purchased products produced by TAG and AXE before. Some of their body sprays certainly have a unique aroma that smell quite pleasant. I kind of consider this stuff to be pretty expensive deodorant, yet relatively cheap cologne! Whenever I wear the stuff, people are quick to mention that they can smell the stuff, yet they never really mention whether they like the smell or not! I suspect they are smelling a generic sort of aerosol, not necessarily a specific 'flavor.' In a sense, they can detect that something has been sprayed, they're just not sure what! That's just my guess. At least at this point no one has asked me to lighten up on the Deepwoods Off!

Well, during this particular shopping spree, what I really needed was shampoo. Once again, I thought I'd go down the path of some enormous vat of shampoo which would not only be very economic, but it would last me well up to Christmas. This visit would have a different result, however.

I guess that you could say that I am a victim of false advertising. I came across the AXE section, and found a smaller container of what I thought was shampoo. In reality, once I came home and opened the product, I found that the little one ounce bottle was all the shampoo there was -- the larger container that I purchased which I thought was shampoo is actually a body wash gel, not shampoo. The introductory wrapping read "shampoo;" it covered the labelling of the primary product which was actually body wash. Therefore, I ended up with just a mini-sample of shampoo, an introductory and complimentary supply of the new product, wrapped around a much larger container of body gel. Quite honestly, what in the world would I ever do with body wash?

It was the packaging that appealed to me coupled with a bright orange liquid gel that seemed to remind me of summer, despite the unseasonably cold weather we've been experiencing here in Northeastern Wisconsin. Perhaps this was my way to hasten a more tropical feeling of summertime heat. The particular smell is entitled, "Fever." Below the attractive label offers the description: "BRAZILIAN HOT MUD + Dragonfruit Extract." What in God's name does any of this mean? To me it sounds like Suave shampoo on crack! DePere is certainly no tropical region, especially this summer, but is there really a dragonfruit that grows somewhere? And come to think of it, would you really want to smell like Brazilian Mud, hot or cold?

Well, I purchased the stuff. While using it in the shower, it smells and feels great; in fact, there's some sort of ingredient inside the gel that makes it slightly abrasive -- it feels somewhat like a liquid sand paper -- or like "Soft Scrub" that I would purchase for cleaning showers in Chicago during my seminarian / early priesthood years. Again, while in the shower, it's pretty eye opening as it smells and feels pretty great. Yet by the time I towel dry, I cannot say that I notice any effect of the use. I'm wondering whether or not I'll purchase the product again, and I'm wondering if I've ever done anything like this before?

Yes I have!




Just then, I remembered another bath product that Mom would get for me when I was much, much younger -- Crazy Foam! That stuff was the greatest, especially as it erupted from the Super Hero's mouth -- or nose, as in the case of Spiderman! It was like a really cool smelling thick shaving cream to be used in the bath tub that would result in great fun in the "bat tub." Batman was the canister I always remember having near the tub! I am not sure what the intended purpose of this foam was -- perhaps just a simpler way of getting young kids an opportunity to take a bath without too much complaining. Once the tub was drained, so too was its effect, yet it made bath time so much more pleasant.

Having had two wedding rehearsals, two weddings and one Sunday Mass since using the AXE without anyone mentioning that I look or smell any differently, I guess you could say that I don't smell any better these days. But thankfully, I don't smell like dirt -- or Brazilian Hot Mud -- either. I suppose that's a good thing. But like "Scrubbing Bubbles: You're the one, you make bath time so much fun," from the 70's, I have been looking forward to showering for the three minute smell it affords. So for now, it will become my shampoo, not body wash. I hope the bold bright orange gel does not dye my hair a similar color. No, that couldn't happen.... Peter Brady already owns the rights to that phenomenon!

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All Hail, Adored Trinity!

God, we praise you:

Father, all powerful,

Christ Lord and Savior,

Spirit of Love.

You reveal yourself in the depths of our being,

drawing us to share in your life and your love.

One God, three persons,

be near to the people formed in your image,

close to the world your love brings to life.

We ask you this, Father, Son and Holy Spirit,

one God, true and living, forever and ever.

Amen


+ Roman Sacramentary
TRINITY SUNDAY

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Forever Father & Son!

Over the past couple of years, I've used this forum to recommend some Father's Day gifts (namely books and DVDs) as the third Sunday in June approaches. Well, I'm doing it again. And as you can see, I'm tapping into a flic that I've watched over the past two nights that was released on DVD last Tuesday, 26 May 2009.

In many ways, it takes on a theme that you may have noticed in any number of feel-good sports movies that seem to follow a familiar mantra -- remember my thoughts about "Gridiron Gang?" Yet, this one delves deeply into Father / Son relationships which also happens to be based on actual events. I suspect that this gift might not just be something that sons can get for dad, but this seems even more appropriate for a dad to give to a son on Father's Day -- as strange as that may seem.

At first, I thought of Tommy and Bill (TEX) Katzfey, given the father and son's long standing commitment to rugby -- a sport I've only witnessed once in my life! But it's more about budding manhood and the establishment of winning off the field than it is about athleticism or winning on the gridiron.

This movie has won the "Truly Moving Picture Award," which means even Father Conrad might approve! Time will tell when I gear up to watch it with him for a third time. Stop in to Best Buy and pick up a copy -- I suspect you won't be disappointed!

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