Christ the Lord! Today is born to you a Savior, who isTo shepherds keeping watch over their flocks: Christ the Lord! Today is born to you a Savior, who is ... at St. Paul Seminary

Save the DateSaturday, January 31, 2015:

Preparations under way for the sixth annual

Keys and Sword Award Benefit

Journey of FaithDonald C. François

co-honoree of the 2015 Keys and Sword Award Benefit

Spiritual FitnessTake the Initiative:

Give and receive forgiveness

To shepherds keeping watch over their flocks:

Christ the Lord!Today is born to you a Savior, who is

December 2014c at h o l i c v i . c om

The Catholic Islander / December 2014 / www.catholicvi.com2

The Magazine of the Roman Catholic Diocese of St. Thomas in the Virgin Islands Most Reverend Herbert BevardPUBLISHER

Father John Matthew FewelEDITOR

Sarah Jane von HaackMANAGING EDITOR

Jenny BisGRAPHIC DESIGNER

Charlotte BanksLillia KingADVERTISING

Deacon Emith Fludd CIRCULATION

www.FAITHcatholic.com

Inside this issue

4 from the editor's desk

5 local news

10 liturgical calendar

12 cover story Keeping watch o'er their flocks: Faithful shepherds.

14 journey of faith Donald C. François.

15 saint of the month Learn and share the faith.

16 theology 101 The Sixth Commandment.

18 in the know with father joe Why should we have to pay for religious education?

20 world news

22-25 parish calendars

25 ¡buenas noticias!

Please submit news and digital photography for the January 2015 issue of The Catholic Islander to:[email protected].

Submit advertising to:[email protected].

O N T H E C O V E R :The Annunciation to the Shepherds (1663) by Abraham Hondius.

Bishop Bevard met with members of the Cathedral Renovation Committee. Among those present was 2014 Keys and Sword co- honoree, Mr. Donald C. Francois (left), who toured the cathedral with the group following a meeting in the Hospitality Lounge.

Brother James Petrait, OSFSWEBMASTER

Christine JosephProof Reader

BISHOP'S CALENDAR:

Sat., Dec. 6• Mass at Holy Cross,

Christiansted at 6 p.m. • 50th Anniversary Dinner

at Saint Joseph High School in Mt. Pleasant, 7 p.m.

Sun., Dec. 7 • Mass Sacred Heart Chapel,

Christiansted, 9 a.m.

Mon., Dec. 8 • School Mass, Feast of the

Immaculate Conception, 8 a.m.• Mass Cathedral of Sts. Peter and

Paul, 12:15 p.m.

Tues., Dec. 9• Keys & Sword Executive Committee

meeting, Hospitality Lounge, SPPC, 6 p.m.

Wed., Dec. 10• Catholic Charities Board Meeting.

Thurs., Dec. 11 • Diocesan Finance Committee

meeting, (Hospitality Lounge, SPPC), 6 p.m.

Sun., Dec. 14• Mass Our Lady of Perpetual Help,

Mafolie, 9 a.m.

Wed., Dec. 17• Annual meeting of Presbyterate

Council and Priests' Christmas Party with the Bishop.

Fri., Dec. 19• Mass, Sts. Peter and Paul School,

Anticipation of Christmas, 8 a.m.

Sun., Dec. 21• Mass St. Anne Chapel,

Frenchtown, 8 a.m.• Mass SPPC, 10:30 a.m.

Christmas Eve, Dec. 24• Midnight Mass SPPC.

Christmas Day, Dec. 25• Mass SPPC, 10:30 a.m.• Spanish Mass SPPC, 12:30 p.m.

Sun., Dec. 28• Feast Day Mass at Holy Family,

7:30 a.m.

Wed., Dec. 31 • Old Year's Eve, Mass SPPC,

10:30 a.m.

From the Bishop’s Desk

3

His Excellency Bishop Herbert A. Bevard, Bishop of St. Thomas

and The Diocese of St. Thomas in the Virgin Islands

Present:

The Sixth AnnualKeys and Sword Award Benefit

Saturday, January 31, 2015Marriott Frenchman’s Reef Hotel

Bishop’s Champagne Reception | 6:00 p.m.Special Music by Francis Callwood

Dinner | 7:15 p.m.Program with special entertainment and dancing with

Milo’s Kings till Midnight40/60 Raffle, Select Prize Drawings and Grand Prizes

(Complimentary Shuttle Service from Havensight Mall and Red Hook Ferry Dock to and from “The Reef ”)

Tickets and ad sponsorships are available from Ticket Sellers at each parish and all church offices. Refer to your parish bulletin for ticket seller names.

3

Mrs. Esonia Monsanto-HassellMr. Donald C.

François

From the Editor's Desk

By Father John Matthew Fewel


T he Year of Consecrated Life, which was proclaimed by Pope Francis, started on November 30, 2014, and will conclude on February 2, 2016. “Consecrated Life” refers to all of the priests, brothers and

sisters who dedicate themselves to the religious life by taking the vows or promises of poverty, chastity and obedience in a religious order.

The Year of Consecrated Life begins:First Sunday Of Advent

Text by Brother James A. Petrait, O.S.F.S. (Oblates of St. Francis De Sales)

In the Diocese of St. Thomas in the Virgin Islands, we have two religious orders of men: the Congregation of the Most Holy Redeemer (C.Ss.R) and the Oblates of St. Francis de Sales (O.S.F.S.). Both groups have members who may be priests or brothers. Also in the diocese there are six religious orders of sisters: the Missionaries of Charity (M.C.), the Daughters of the Holy Family of Bafoussam (D.H.F.B.), the Dominican Sisters of the Immaculate Mother (O.P.), the Missionary Sisters of the Immaculate Heart of Mary (I.C.M.), the Sisters of the Good Shepherd (R.G.S.) and the West Indian Franciscans (W.I.F.).

There are many religious orders throughout the world and in the United

States that are devoted to the charisms of their founders and that have followed the evangelical councils throughout the centuries and have contributed their Christian service to a countless number of persons.

According to the Center for Applied Research in the Apostolate at Georgetown University, there are (2014) 12,010 religious priests, 4,318 religious brothers and 49,883 religious sisters in the United States. All of the figures are down by more than 50 percent since 1970.

In the 1990s, I wrote an article for The Catholic Islander newspaper entitled, “The Last Brother in Paradise.” Since that time, several brothers have come and gone. At this time, I am the only religious brother in the diocese. I was going to write an article entitled “Last Brother in Paradise, Part 2,” but I think the more

important idea is about all of the religious priests, brothers and sisters in the diocese and throughout the world and the need to keep up and increase their numbers.

I think all men and women who are discerning their pathway through life should seriously consider the vocation to become a religious priest, brother or sister. I encourage anyone who is interested to learn more about the religious orders in the diocese and explore the many religious

orders throughout the world. A comprehensive list of religious orders can be found at www.catholiclinks.org. Go to the seventh link called, “Religious Groups.”

During the Year of Consecrated Life, it is my hope that we can all

become more aware and thankful for the gift of the religious life throughout the world, and that we offer up our prayers for an increase in vocations to the religious life.

Daughters of the Holy Family of Bafoussam (DHFB)

Teachers, catechists, medical missionary workers and parish ministry. Motherhouse in Cameroon, Africa.

(l-r): Sister Joan Lukong Venyena, DHFB, Sister Mary Elizabeth, DHFB, Superior General, and Sister Giselle Kinyuy Ngoran, DHFB.

5

Local News

Rosary crusade A public square rosary crusade was held October 11, 2014, at Emancipation

Gardens. Parishioners from Holy Family, the Cathedral of Sts. Peter and Paul, Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Our Lady of Mt. Carmel and St. Anne Chapel joined together for the rosary. Beginning at noon with the Angelus, the Holy Rosary was followed by the Litany of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Prayer of Total Consecration of St. Louis DeMontefort and the Divine Praises.

Receiving a traditional blessing after Mass at the cathedral from Msgr. Verzosa (center) for anniversary milestones are, from left Mr. Leopold Sprauve, Usher; his wife, Marion, Bernadette Pinney, and her husband, Mr. Gilbert Pinney, Usher.

Msgr. Feudjio, with concelebrant Father Scantlebury, speaks at the Funeral Mass of cathedral choir member Mervin Kitnurse. Deacon Danet (left) assisted.

Mr. Emmanuel Suaner, in his third year of theology studies for the Diocese of St. Thomas in the Virgin Islands was instituted as an Acolyte with his class, at St. Paul Seminary on October 21, 2014. The sacred Order of Acolyte was conferred upon the men by the Most Reverend Andrew H. Cozzens, auxiliary bishop of Minneapolis-St. Paul.


Local News

Pastor of St. Patrick Church, Father Patrick Lynch, CSsR, led the St. Patrick parishioners in praying the rosary for America. They marched through the streets of Frederiksted, stopping at the Legislature Building to pray the rosary. This takes place annually during October – the month of the rosary of the Blessed Virgin Mary. As they prayed the rosary, they joined millions across the nation and other places praying at the same time for world peace.

CATHOLIC CHARITIES’ DECEMBER FOOD DRIVE

Please collect the following items at your church, school or workplace and bring them to Catholic Charities:

• Powdered milk, rice, lentils and beans• Infant formula and baby food• Canned meat and vegetables

Rosary Walk in Fredericksted

Father E. Patrick Lynch, CSsR, pastor of St. Patrick’s Church in

Fredericksted.

Student HonoredSt. Joseph High School student Estelle E. Jules, grade 11, proudly displays the Honor Diploma awarded for her participation in “The Junior Statesmen Summer School” at Georgetown University from June 15 to July 16, 2014.

Deacon Neville Charles retired on October 26, 2014, after assisting at his last, official, scheduled Mass. The following Wednesday, St. Joseph Parish honored Deacon Charles, recognizing how much he means to so many and how much he is appreciated.

7

Local News

Cathedral baptisms

Father Eduardo Ortiz-Santiago baptized five babies at Sts. Peter and Paul Cathedral on September 28, 2014.

30 Years for Franciscan Community – Sister Patricia Alexander, W.I.F. (right) and Sister Audrey Abel, W.I.F., celebrate the 30th anniversary (16th anniversary for Sister Audrey) of the founding of the West Indian Franciscan Community on St. Croix. Mass and renewal of vows at St. Ann Barrenspot were followed by a luncheon in their honor at the Franciscan House, which was sponsored by the Secular Franciscan Order.

Brother Patrick Clement Leavy, CFC 1941-2013

Brother Patrick Clement Leavy, CFC (Congregation of Christian Brothers), passed away on September 26, 2013. Brother Leavy received a BA in Classical Language from Iona College (New Rochelle, NY), his MA in guidance from Seton Hall University (South Orange Village, NJ), and his HD in Religious Education from Marcelino Champagnat (Lima, Perú). Many Virgin Islanders remember Br. Leavy for his time as

Director of the Diaconate Program here. May he rest in peace among the Blessed for his service to our diocese. Requiescat in pace, frater.

8 The Catholic Islander / December 2014 / www.catholicvi.com

Local News

Welcome Back, Daughter

St. Joseph alumnus teaches biology at alma mater

Ms. Shenelle Dore, a 2010 graduate of St. Joseph High School and a 2014 graduate of the University of the Virgin Islands, is a new teacher at St. Joseph High School. During a mid-September class in Building 4 of St. Joseph High School, Ms. Dore had her biology students perform an experiment on the effects of rain on seed germination. Shenelle’s sister, Zina Dore, a 2006 graduate of St. Joseph High School, is the math teacher at St. Joseph High School.

St. Joseph High School biology students do practical science under the direction of the teacher, Ms. Shenelle Dore, an alumnus of St. Joseph High School. Pictured (l-r): Omisha Williams, grade 10; Ms. Shenelle Dore, teacher; Mhina Barry, grade 10; and Xarquisha Somme, grade 10.

(l-r) One Carrington, grade 10; Lyon Payne, grade 10; and Zackana Khaled, grade 10.

9

In October, St. Joseph High School science teacher Brother James Petrait, O.S.F.S, demonstrated rotational inertia to his physics students by swinging a bucket of water over his head. Because of rotational inertia, the water did not come out of the bucket when it was upside down. Guarding against mishap, Brother James performed the demonstration in the back of the classroom so that it couldn't accidentally become a demonstration of the effect of a waterfall on the class.

P R O T E C T I O N O F C H I L D R E N

The Diocese of St. Thomas in the Virgin Islands is committed to protecting children from all harm. If you have knowledge of any church worker who may have abused a minor, please contact the diocesan child protection coordinator, Callista Julien, at 340.778.0484 or 340.772.4214.

Local News

The pastor of Holy Cross Church in Christiansted, Father John Juszczak, C.Ss.R., visited with His Excellency, Bishop Herbert Bevard after Mass on a recent episcopal visit.

Banners circle the gorgeous interior of the Cathedral of Sts. Peter and Paul immediately after the 10:30 a.m. Sunday Mass. During hurricane season, special prayers and hymns are offered up for God's protection from tropical storms and all hazards of nature which threaten our islands.

Randolph Laudat is known for his excellent service to the Cathedral Parish. He is the man who does all that is needed with the building and maintenance. Here, with his wife Cassie, Randolph receives a traditional blessing after Mass from Father Bruce Anderson. The Laudats recently celebrated nine years of marriage.

The Catholic Islander / December 2014 / www.catholicvi.com

11Printed with permission from Liturgy Training Publications.

Using the Calendar

This calendar provides the liturgical celebrations for the Dioceses of the United States of America and Canada.

Each spoke in this calendar wheel represents a week. Weeks begin on the Lord’s Day, Sunday (the outer hub on the wheel), and end on Saturday (the inner hub). Each liturgical time in the liturgical year is a different color. Notice the liturgical times Advent, Christmas time, Lent and Easter time. Between Lent and Easter time, you will find the sacred paschal Triduum, the three days that are the center of the liturgical year. Now notice the two spans of Ordinary time. One of them comes in the winter and is rather short. The other comes after Pentecost and lasts all summer and fall. Then, after the last Sunday in Ordinary time, Advent of a new liturgical year arrives.

The colors used on the wheel are used to illustrate the various liturgical times. The colors are not meant to point out individual days. Shades are chosen to be as close to the color of the liturgical time as possible while blending with the shades used in the art. Because of this, the shades will vary from year to year. Shades of violet are chosen for both Advent and Lent (a bluer shade for Advent and a redder shade for Lent). Different shades of gold are used to differentiate between Christmas time and Easter time (the “official” liturgical color for Christmas time and Easter time is white; however, gold and silver may also be used). Green is used for the different stages of Ordinary time and red is used for the sacred paschal Triduum (there is no “seasonal” color for Triduum – each day has its own color. In order to differentiate Triduum from Easter time, red [the color for Good Friday] was selected.)

Except during Christmas time and on Pentecost, each Sunday has a large number on it. The name of a Sunday is usually a combination of its number and the liturgical time.

In some cases, the names of saints have been abbreviated or eliminated because of space constraints.

The days of the liturgical year are ranked according to importance to the faith life of the Church. The typeface used on this calendar indicates this ranking. The great solemnities of the liturgical year are set in the largest typeface [EASTER SUNDAY]. These include each Sunday, solemnities of the Lord and of the saints and feasts of the Lord. The next-largest type [St. Andrew] is used for feasts of the saints. A smaller type [St. Elizabeth of Hungary] is used for both obligatory and optional memorials of the saints and the beatified who are celebrated on the general calendar for the dioceses of the United States of America and for Canada.

The smallest type is used for secular observances [New Year’s Day] for Australia, Canada and the United States of America. Observances particular to a country have the following parenthetical notes: (A) for Australia; (C) for Canada; (U) for the United States of America; and (M) for Mexico.

A fish has been placed on the days of the Lenten fast, the

paschal fast and on Fridays that fall outside festive times. On these days, Christians are challenged by their tradition to pray, fast and give alms.

An oil lamp has been placed on the vigils of the great solemnities

that by custom begin at sundown. This includes the celebration of Sunday, the Lord’s Day.

Candles have been placed on feasts of the Lord and

solemnities that are not holy days of obligation.

A bread and cup has been placed on Sundays and other days of

importance (holy days of obligation).

Liturgical Calendar

12 The Catholic Islander / December 2014 / www.catholicvi.com

Keeping Watch O'er Their

By Father John Matthew Fewel, editor

In the great events recorded for us in Scripture, where our shepherds

– the apostles – participated in the Lord’s great work of our salvation; they were certainly present and eye witnesses. First and foremost of the qualifications of an apostle is to be an eyewitness! (Acts 1: 21, 22)

Yet, at key times and momentous events, they may have been asleep – as Peter, James and John were in the Garden of Gethsemane – or coming on the scene late, as John and Peter did at the empty tomb on the morning of Christ’s resurrection. Sometimes they are even absent, as St. Thomas was at the first appearance of Christ to His assembled brethren, post-resurrection, in the Upper Room. (Matthias, who received the office of apostle that had been vacated by the traitor Judas, was chosen in great part for his well-known presence and witness to all the Lord did and said during his time of earthly ministry.) Even the apostle to the Gentiles – Saul of Tarsus, renamed by the Lord, Paul – didn’t even receive his calling as a shepherd until much later, after Christ’s Ascension into heaven.

Most important of all, these shepherds – the Twelve Apostles and Paul – like those tending sheep in the hills of Bethlehem on that holy night of nights, were busy at their job, present to the Lord, doing their best, to see to their responsibilities. The good news never failed to reach them so that they could share this good news, just like the choirs of the angelic hosts of heaven heralded the arrival of the King of Kings to humble shepherds of Israel far

out in the fields and hills. In Matthew 24, the appreciation of

the Master for such faithful service is promised, where Jesus, using the image of a household servant, assured them: “Who, then, is the faithful and prudent servant, whom the master has put in charge of his household to distribute to them their food at the proper time? Blessed is that servant whom his master on his arrival finds doing so. Amen, I say to you, he will put him in charge of all his property.”

In the announcement of the Lord’s birth by the glorious choirs of angels to the shepherds, who were out in the fields protecting their sheep, there is a picture and a foreshadowing of the role of the priest among the faithful since that time even to this day. With this image comes the assurance that in the reliable, faithful, keeping of his station and doing of his duty, the noble shepherd will never miss nor be apart from but will always be close to the advent of the Lord and the blessing and reward of his well-pleased Master.

Out among their f locks , faithful guardians of the sheep

13

Cover Story

. . . Just like the choirs of the angelic

hosts of heaven heralded the arr ival of the King of Kings

to humble shepherds of Israel far out in

the f ields and hil l s ."

Angels announcing Christ's birth to the

shepherds (1639) by Govert Flinck, oil

on canvas.

Flocks


Journey of Faith

Donald C. François2015 Keys and Sword Award Benefit

co-Honoree

In the 1940s, across the street from the Sisters of Charity Convent and not too far from the rectory, lived a boy like so many others. He grew up going to Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic School, singing in the choir and helping serve as an acolyte at Mass. Though his career and life took him to

all different parts of the world, he ended up back in St. Thomas. This year, Donald Francois is being honored for his work with the cathedral restoration – the very same church he attended as a young man.

By Paul McAvoy

“As a boy growing up around the Redemptorist priests stationed here, and living in the proximity of the rectory, I went to school here and joined the CYO and played basketball. The priests who were assigned – Father Tardiff, Father Murphy, Father Finn (I can go on naming quite a few!) – [they] kept me doing a lot of things rather than being out in the streets.”

Donald credits his family and the good influence of men like the Redemptorist priests for helping him with the structure in life he would need to succeed. In 1949, he went to Howard University in Washington, D.C., but left to join the Air Force. It was the height of the Korean War. He returned to Howard in 1954, married his wife, Faye, and graduated in 1959 with a degree in mechanical engineering.

Donald describes the culture shock that came with going into a racially segregated society. “The Virgin Islands were a melting pot, people of all different backgrounds and races. Going to college in Washington, D.C., it wasn’t exactly fully integrated. I had to go upstairs in the movies, and in certain areas you knew you weren’t welcome. The same thing when I was in the service in ’50, because even though President Truman had supposedly signed a law to integrate the services, that still wasn’t implemented.”

Donald shares one story of going into the hospital with his wife to have their first daughter. “Faye was very fair-skinned and they brought her to the white maternity ward. When they saw me coming, they looked at all her paperwork and transferred her to the black ward.” Getting through difficulties like racism, which he hadn’t experienced at home, made him lean on his faith. “It was endurance,” Donald explained. “You look for a refuge, and besides having an education you also have to have faith in God and hope that these things pass ... to bear all those racial problems.”

The problems did pass, as Donald moved out of the service and began climbing a career ladder as a professional engineer at world-class firms such as Boeing, Lockheed and United Technology. He and his family lived in California, in Silicon Valley, during the early days of technology companies. In the 1970s, he decided to come back to his roots, and his home, and took a job on St. Thomas. Over the years, he continued to have interesting and challenging work, first for the government and then for the utility companies helping to improve the infrastructure on the islands. He officially retired in 1995, but, at age 84, continues to stay busy consulting and on boards.

This year, Donald is being honored (along with Esonia Hassel, last month’s Journey of Faith subject) at the Keys and Sword Gala for his work on the cathedral restoration project. Through Donald’s engineering experience, he was able to advise the committee on the work that needed to be done to the cathedral and the rectory. Today, Donald Francois is proud of the project and his involvement in it. Most of all, he’s proud of his family, including his two accomplished daughters, his wife, his commitment to mentoring young engineers and his service to God. “My faith and upbringing had a big impact on my life ... my wife and I, we’ve lived a good life, never lost faith and we’re both very honored to be in the service of the good Lord.

15

Father Anthony Abraham of Our Lady of Mount Carmel in cooperation with Mary Baptiste of Zion Community in Trinidad, led a pilgrimage to Rome and the Holy Land September 9-23, 2014. Seventeen people from Our Lady of Mount Carmel and Holy Family Church attended the pilgrimage and 21 people with the group from Trinidad.

Local News

The Blessed Sacrament was transferred from a side altar to the sanctuary of St. Ann Chapel, Barrenspot. The two angels adore the Lord Jesus Christ, by day and night, as they intercede for all of God's children from the Caribbean Islands.

Bishop Bevard and Msgr. Feudjio, Rector of the Cathedral of Sts. Peter and Paul, with the newly arrived and installed shrine of St. Ursula, patroness of the Virgin Islands, and above, Our Lady of Perpetual Help, patroness of the Diocese of St. Thomas in the Virgin Islands.


T H E S I X T H G I F T : You shall not

commit adultery

In marriage, the couple together form a lifelong partnership of this same life and love, both giving of themselves “definitely and totally to one another.” They maintain this integrity by

living in harmony with the ends, or purposes, of marriage: the good of the spouses and the procreation of children. In other words, marriage is inseparably unitive and procreative precisely because it participates in the love and life of God.

It is unitive because the human body, by its

very nature, is directed to relationship, as it is only in relationship that we achieve a true wholeness as a communion of persons. God established marriage precisely so that man and woman could participate in his love and thus selflessly give themselves to each other in love.

It is procreative because the

he “sixth word” of the Decalogue primarily reveals to us our vocation to love and communion. Made in the image of God, we are invited to participate in the very life and love of God. For this reason, the unity, or wholeness, of a person

depends on the ability of that person to maintain the “integrity of the powers of life and love placed in [the person].”

nature of love is to overflow, to be life-giving. Marriage, then, is meant for not only growing in spousal love, but for transmitting life. In fact, children are the crowning glory of a marriage.

The “union of man and woman in marriage is a way of imitating in the flesh the Creator’s generosity and fecundity.” It is precisely through this union that the spouses participate in a spiritual communion with one another and with God, for whom we are all created.

Affirming faith

Because the spouses enter into a unique and indissoluble covenant, fidelity is of central importance. Fidelity “expresses constancy in keeping one’s word” and represents a participation in the life of God, who is always faithful. In this way, the sacrament of marriage enables the woman and man to “enter

The Sixth Commandment:You shall not commit adultery

Theology 101

T

... The sacrament of marriage enables the woman and man to “enter into Christ’s fidelity for his Church.”

17

The story of the Israelites’ journey from slavery in Egypt to the Promised Land has a large cast of characters. Test your knowledge of biblical figures and name this group:

Q: Taking their name from one of the 12 sons of Jacob, this priestly tribe watched over the Tabernacle in the Wilderness.

A: Levites

Bible geography facts

Rephidim was a stopping point for Moses and the Israelites as they passed from the wilderness of Sin en route to the wilderness of Sinai. The Book of Exodus notes three important events taking place at Rephidim: the Israelites miraculously received water after finding the streams at Rephidim were all dry; the repulsion of an Amalekite attack on Israel, a battle which was won only after Moses climbed a hill and raised his hands in the air; and the building of a memorial altar by Moses to commemorate the victory.

Rephidim is traditionally identified with Wadi Feiran, which is Sinai’s largest valley. Since the fourth century AD, churches have dotted the landscape as the area became an important pilgrimage site. The valley is characterized chiefly by the Oasis of Feiran, the largest oasis in Sinai, and its huge sprawl of palms. Sheer cliffs also surround the valley, adding to its mystique.

Did you know? Rephidim literally means “rests.”

into Christ’s fidelity for his Church.”

In the Book of Genesis, God issues a command to "Let there be …" and it comes to pass. It is, in a sense, the verbal manifestation of God's consent to the existence of that which is created. This act of creation is imitated during the marriage ceremony, where the two are required to consent before the community to the creation of the union.

However, Genesis also teaches that this initial consent is not sufficient for the maintenance of creation. "Then God said, 'Let there be light,' and there was light. God saw that the light was good." (Gen. 1, 3-4) Here we have the consent followed by the affirmation that it is good for the light to exist. This formula is repeated with each step of creation. This affirmation that creation is good is the foundation of our being.

So at each moment, God holds creation in existence through affirmation. Without this continuous commitment to affirmation, creation would simply pass away. In the same way, marriage is an invitation into this same loving commitment and powerful participation in the life of God. But the demands that go with such participation are no less applicable.

Marriage is a choice and one has to choose it every day. A marriage has to be continuously affirmed. This need for constant attentiveness is modeled by God in maintaining creation and is the very act of love. Hence, infidelity can be viewed as any act of inattention to the

VICTORY O LORD!by John Everett Millais,

1871

marriage in favor of a more narrow focus limited only to the needs of the individual self, in which the existence of the other is neither recognized nor affirmed.

Lethal lust

It should come as no surprise then why in Matthew 5:27-28 Jesus takes the commandment against adultery even further, teaching that anyone who looks lustfully at a person who is not his or her spouse has “already committed adultery … in [their] heart.”

Lust is deadly precisely because it attacks the unity of both the person and the person’s relationship with others in the living out of their vocation to chastity (which is really about order). By introducing division and separation between the powers of life and love in our minds, lust disorients, misdirects and inverts these powers away

from their true end of unity – within the person, with others and with God.

Lust’s impure desires forget God and reduce our neighbors (this means spouses, too) and even our very selves into mere objects of gratification. It stimulates the thought that we are in control; that the powers of life and love originate with us rather than with God.

The good news

Pope St. John Paul, in Veritatis Splendor (23),

provides us with a very important reminder with regard to living out this commandment: “Love and life according to the Gospel cannot be thought of first and foremost as a kind of precept, because what they demand is beyond [a human’s] abilities. They are possible only as the result of a gift of God who heals, restores and transforms the human heart by his grace.”

- All quotes from the Catechism of the Catholic Church (2331-2391) except as otherwise noted

QUIZ!

Why should we have to pay for religious education?

Dear Father Joe: My parish expects parents to jump through a lot of "hoops" in order to have our children participate in religious education. I think the time and money commitments are unreasonable – what can I do?


In the Know with Father Joe

Before we dive fully into this, I want to establish a common foundation: I’m assuming that you, like me, aren’t bothered by the fact that they are asking for money for the program, but that they are asking for too much. Obviously, some amount of money will be asked of most people in this situation, just to cover costs associated with the program. Textbooks, paper and supplies cost money.

Regarding the “hoops,” first ask yourself honestly if these are really unreasonable. Is the catechist asking for more than what your child’s regular school teacher asks? If, upon genuine reflection, you believe that there are arbitrary requirements, it may be that this is their wounded response to the typical difficulties and challenges of being a catechist.

What kind of bird sticks to sweaters?

A: A VEL-CROW!By Father Joe Krupp

Please allow me to explain what I mean and see if this might shed some light on how you can respond.

It starts with the best of things: a hunger to share what gives life.

Most people who teach and share the faith begin doing so simply because they have found such great joy in living the life of faith. They have an experience of God and are excited to share it. They volunteer to teach, complete their training, gather their materials and plan out how they can share the beautiful traditions and teachings of our Church in a way that will communicate it all effectively.

Often, one of the first things people in that position experience is a kind of shocked sadness: not everyone is “buying in.” No matter how well you plan, no matter how much of yourself you put into it, there will always be any number of people who take it for granted and do the absolute minimum to get by. There will always be parents who put sports above faith in raising their kids and who seem to have their children in the program in order to jump hoops.

As a teacher, it is utterly heartbreaking.

Beyond that, teachers also run into those who attack: people who are either self-appointed theological police or those who fancy themselves as experts and advocates for a specific cause and wonder why you’re not teaching what they think you should be teaching.

They write emails, make calls and sometimes even engage in a sort of whisper campaign (gossip!) in order to reduce the credibility of those who teach.

That, too, can be utterly heartbreaking.

Beyond these, there are the usual heartbreaks and sorrows attached to any labor of love, and the pain and irritation can sometimes lead to an effort to control: a sort of “We’ll make you do this right.” That, my friend, is where we get into trouble.

If you’re a parent reading this and you have children in a religious education program, I pray that you respond to the woundedness of teachers with great love and sensitivity. Thank them regularly for their hard work and volunteering of time. Pray for them more than you do for most others. As best you can, commit yourself and your kids to the program, not simply doing what is convenient, but what is necessary for your child to know the faith and grow in the faith.

If you are a catechist reading this, I invite you to remember that our job is not to “get results” from others, but to be faithful in what God requires of us. This will keep us from adding layers and layers of requirements onto our programs for no other reason than to abrogate the pain that we forget is part of the mission.

Yep. I typed that – pain is a part of our mission. It’s too easy

for us to see each instance of pain as a problem to be solved. Sometimes, pain is a part of the experience that we need to have. When we hurt because we are serving God’s People and they don’t seem to be responding, then we have been offered a special grace: a glimpse into the heart of God. Join your pain to His. Ask His forgiveness for the times you’ve responded half-heartedly or put Him second, third or fourth in your life.

If you are a catechist reading this and you find yourself guilty of attempting to force results, don’t fret. Ask God’s forgiveness and get back on the horse. I would imagine that the vast majority of people who have taught the faith have done the exact same thing – I know I have.

Dr. Peter Kreeft puts it this way: “We try too much and trust too little. Count the times God's Book tells us to ‘try.’ Now count the times it tells us to ‘trust.’”

I pray that God heals and strengthens all our wounded hearts and guides us toward deeper trust in Him and in each other.

Enjoy another day in God’s presence!

19

Local News

The Haitian Community at Holy Family Church:

People on the move!Under the pastoral care of Holy Family pastor, Father Neil Scantlebury, and Father Kerly François, who heads the Apostolate, the Haitian Community moves ahead in faith.

Father Neil Scantlebury, Holy

Family Pastor

1. Father Kerly François cleaning Holy Family Church together with faithful members of the Haitian Community.

2. Miss Hillarin (center) and one of several classes made up of members of the Haitian community at Holy Family Church.

3. English instruction for the Haitian Community, and other activities, with Miss Martha (center).

4. Mass In Bovoni: Thursday, October 13, 2014, at the home of Maria Griffin. Plans are underway for regular Sunday Mass in Bovoni. A new permanent location for the celebration of Sunday Holy Mass for the Haitian community is currently under consideration.

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World News

50th anniversary of Vatican II

Perfectae Caritatis, a decree on the renewal of religious life, and Lumen Gentium, the Second Vatican Council’s constitution on the Church, were proclaimed by Pope Paul VI in 1965 at the Second Vatican Council.

Philippines takes threat against pope seriously

The Islamic State has declared a fatwa about the need to attack the pope, causing the Philippines to take extra precautions to protect Pope Francis when he visits the country in January.

POPE PROCLAIMS 2015 YEAR FOR CONSECRATED LIFE

Pope Francis has proclaimed 2015 the Year for Consecrated Life, which will begin on the First Sunday of Advent and end on February 2, 2016, the World Day of Consecrated life.

Visit the USCCB online to find more

information on the 2015 Year of Consecrated Life

www.usccb.org

Church complaint says abortion ruling coerces millions of Californians

The California Catholic Conference has filed a federal civil rights complaint protesting a state ruling mandating the inclusion of voluntary direct abortion, including gender selection and late-term abortion, in California health insurance policies.

Knights of Columbus heroic pro-life work wins Notre Dame prize

The Knights of Columbus and Supreme Knight Carl Anderson have been named the recipients of the University of Notre Dame’s 2015 Evangelium Vitae medal in recognition of their pro-life efforts.

Cardinal Pell's secretariat continues economic reform at the Vatican

The Secretariat for the Economy is developing a financial management manual that will be the basis of budgeting and accounting operations in 2015 for Vatican agencies.

Exhibition of the relics of St. Francis Xavier, apostle to the Far East

The Archdiocese of Goa and Daman on the western coast of Indian has announced that the relics will be exposed at Se Cathedral from November 22, 2014, to January 4, 2015. The exposition is a decennial event, which means it occurs once every 10 years.

Buddhist composes symphony to mark pope’s Sri Lanka visit

In an effort of religious reconciliation, the Sri Lankan government has commissioned a symphony from Buddhist composer Vajira Indika Karunasena to commemorate Pope Francis’ apostolic voyage to the nation in January 2015.

Project Rachel looks to a global future

After 30 years of providing post-abortion healing and support across the United States, Project Rachel founder Vicki Thorn is hoping to take the ministry abroad, beginning with an Eastern Europe training session for Project Rachel in Poland.

New appointments to Pontifical Biblical Commission

Pope Francis has appointed 20 scholars to the Pontifical Biblical Commission for the next five years. One of them is from the United States, Mary Healy, a professor at Sacred Heart Major Seminary in Detroit.

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Order of MaltaVirgin Islands Area

The Order of Malta is raising funds for His Excellency, Bishop Bevard’s

Catholic Scholarship Program through the sale of commemorative bricks. The bricks will be installed in the Rosary Garden at Our Lady

Of Perpetual Help Church. This is a great way to remember a loved one or express gratitude to

God for answering a prayer. Your message will last forever.

Call 774.2166 for information


Catholic Daughters of AmericaCourt 2049 meets at Sts. Peter and Paul Cathedral’s Hospitality Lounge on the third Saturday of every month at 3 p.m.

Charismatic Prayer▶ Prayers in Spanish are offered at Sts.

Peter and Paul Cathedral’s Hospitality Lounge on Mondays at 6 p.m.

▶ Holy Family Church holds evenings of charismatic prayer on Mondays at 7 p.m.

Divine Mercy Chaplet ▶ Altar servers from Sts. Peter and Paul

Cathedral and Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church lead the Divine Mercy Chaplet at Sts. Peter and Paul Cathedral on Mondays at 3 p.m.

▶ The chaplet is prayed at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church on Tuesdays at 3 p.m.

Holy Hours/Eucharistic Adoration▶ St. Therese Chapel-Divine Mercy

Shrine has Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament Tuesday through Friday from 8 a.m. until Benediction at 5:30 p.m. (Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m.) and on Saturdays from 8 a.m. until Benediction at 1 p.m.

▶ Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church has Exposition on Tuesdays from 7:30 a.m. until Benediction at 6 p.m. and on Fridays at 6 p.m., followed by Mass at 7 p.m.

▶ Holy Family Church and St. Anne Chapel have Holy Hours with Exposition and Benediction on Fridays at 6 p.m., followed by Mass at 7 p.m.

St. Thomas Calendar

Intercessory Prayer GroupA team is prepared to pray for the needs of all who ask at Holy Family Church on Wednesdays at 7 p.m.

Knights of Columbus Council 6187 meets at Sts. Peter and Paul Cathedral’s Hospitality Lounge on the first and third Sunday of every month at 10 a.m.

Pro-life RosaryPray a pro-life rosary at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church on Wednesdays at 5:45 p.m.

Legion of Mary▶ Presidium María, Arca de la Alianza,

holds meetings in Spanish at Sts. Peter and Paul Cathedral’s Hospitality Lounge on Sundays at 2 p.m.

▶ Presidium Mary, Mediatrix of All Graces, meets in the St. Anne Chapel Hall on Wednesdays at 6 p.m.

MagnificatMagnificat, an international ministry to Catholic women, meets at Sts. Peter and Paul Cathedral’s Hospitality Lounge on the first Saturday of every month at 8 a.m.

Men’s Prayer GroupThe Sons of Joseph and Mary meet at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church on Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m.

Our Lady of Fatima DevotionThe Children of Mary lead a devotion to Our Lady of Fatima at Holy Family Church on the first Saturday of every month at 4 p.m.

Our Mother of Perpetual Help DevotionsDevotions to Our Mother of Perpetual Help are prayed before Mass on Wednesdays at:▶ Sts. Peter and Paul Cathedral at 6:45

a.m. and noon.▶ Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church at

6:15 p.m.▶ Holy Family Church at 6:50 p.m.▶ St. Anne Chapel at 7 p.m.

Pro-lifeBound 4 Life USVI, the diocesan pro-life group, meets at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church every other week. There is also a pro-life Holy Hour and Mass at 6 p.m. on the first Friday of the month.

Parishioners enjoy the air-conditioned ride to 8:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. Masses on a recent Sunday. If you would like to inquire about a ride to these Masses on the cathedral van, call the Cathedral office at 774.0201.

For more information, visit Facebook.com/bound4lifeUSVI or call the OLPH Church office at 340.774.0885.

Rosary WalkSts. Peter and Paul Cathedral hosts a rosary walk on the first Saturday of every month at 7 a.m., followed by Mass at 7:30 a.m.

St. Joseph WorkersThe St. Joseph Workers meet at Holy Family Church’s Columban Hall on the second Sunday of every month at 9:30 a.m.

St. Vincent de Paul SocietyThe Young Vincentians meet on the third Sunday of every month at 11:30 a.m. The adult members meet on the fourth Saturday of every month at 3:30 p.m. Both groups meet in Holy Family Church’s classroom.

World Apostolate of FatimaThe World Apostolate of Fatima meets at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church on Thursdays at 7:30 a.m.

Latin Mass A weekly Tridentine Mass is offered on Saturdays at 4 p.m. in the Chapel of the Little Flower on Main Street next to the cathedral office. The regular English Mass at 5 p.m. in the Ordinary Form is offered in the cathedral. Confessions begin at 3 p.m. in the Chapel of the Little Flower and 5 p.m. in the cathedral.

SAVE THE DATE!Saturday, January 31, 2015. Be sure to get your tickets or to reserve your table for the sixth annual Keys and Sword Award Benefit. Join His Excellency, the Most Reverend Herbert A. Bevard, and this year's co-honorees Mr. Donald C. François and Mrs. Esonia Monsanto-Hassell for this gala event. Tickets are available through your parish office. For more information, call Charlotte Banks at 340.774.3166. Don't miss it!

23Advertise your business in The Catholic Islander! Call 340.774.3166, Ext. 213, for rates.


St. Croix Calendar

Adult Education▶ The St. Patrick Alumni Association offers

an After School Tutorial Program, which is coordinated by Sister Claina Letang, I.C.M. They are now also operating as a Public Computer Center, which is part of the ViNGN Digital Literacy Program. It is open to the public during scheduled mornings to mid-day.

▶ The Religious of the Good Shepherd offer adult education classes in Spanish at the Good Shepherd Center Monday through Friday. These courses include Spanish writing, English as a Second Language and computer courses in Windows, Word, Excel and Internet.

Bible Study Holy Cross Church hosts Bible studies in McAlpin Hall on Wednesdays and Saturdays at 9 a.m., following morning Mass.

Carmelite SpiritualityThe Our Lady Star of the Sea Community shares Carmelite spirituality in the St. Joseph Church Hospitality Lounge and Learning Center on the fourth Sunday of each month at 1 p.m.

Charismatic Prayer▶ St. Patrick Church has charismatic

prayer in the chapel on the third Friday of each month at 6 p.m.

▶ St. Ann Church has charismatic prayer in Marian Hall on Tuesdays at 7 p.m.

Cursillo Prayer Group The Cursillo movement hosts a Spanish prayer meeting in the St. Michael Chapel at St. Joseph Church on the last Monday of every month at 7 p.m.

Cursillo UltreyaCursillo members meet for Ultreya in the Cursillo office at St. Joseph Church on Thursdays after the 7 p.m. Mass. Meetings are in Spanish.

Devotions to St. Gerard MajellaPray a devotion to St. Gerard Majella at Holy Cross Church on Tuesdays at 8:45 a.m.

Divine Mercy ChapletSt. Joseph Church hosts Divine Mercy devotions on the fourth Sunday of each month at 3 p.m. The

hour-long program includes the chaplet, prayers, Adoration and teachings of the Divine Mercy by Father John Mark.

Franciscan SpiritualityThe Our Lady of the Angels fraternity of the Third Order of St. Francis shares Franciscan spirituality at Franciscan House on the fourth Sunday of each month at 3 p.m.

Rosary Prayer GroupCenacle of Our Lady of the Rosary Prayer Group meets at the Franciscan House every Wednesday at 10 a.m.

Holy Hours/Eucharistic Adoration▶ Holy Cross Church has Holy Hour

following the 8:15 a.m. Mass, followed by Eucharistic Adoration until 1 p.m., on the first Friday of every month.

▶ Holy Cross Church has Eucharistic Adoration with confession from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. every Friday.

▶ St. Patrick Church has a Holy Hour with Exposition and Benediction on Fridays after the 8 a.m. Mass.

▶ St. Patrick Church has a full day of Eucharistic Adoration on Wednesdays.

▶ St. Ann Church has a Holy Hour with exposition of the Blessed Sacrament, evening prayer and Benediction every Friday at 5:30 p.m. except First Friday, when Mass is celebrated at 5:30 p.m.

▶ St. Joseph Church has a full day of Eucharistic Adoration every Tuesday beginning with Holy Mass at 6:30 a.m. and concluding with Benediction at 6 p.m.

Knights of ColumbusHoly Cross Council 6482 meets at Holy Cross Church’s McAlpin Hall on the first and third Thursday of every month at 6 p.m.

St. Patrick Youth Ministry Come be with us and enjoy a variety of exciting activities as St. Patrick parents and youths mix work and play to spread

the Gospel message on St. Croix. For more information, contact Father Boniface Blanchard at 340.772.0138.

MagnificatMagnificat, an international ministry to Catholic women, meets at Franciscan House on the third Sunday of each month at 3 p.m.

Neo-catechumenal WayThe Neo-catechumenal Way leads a celebration of the word at St. Joseph Church on Mondays and Thursdays at 7 p.m.Our Mother of Perpetual Help DevotionsDevotions to Our Mother of Perpetual Help are prayed at:▶ St. Patrick Church on Wednesdays at

6:30 a.m. and 8 a.m. ▶ Holy Cross Church on Wednesdays and

Saturdays at 8:45 a.m. ▶ St. Joseph Church on Wednesdays at 7 p.m.

Rosary for the UnbornSt. Joseph Church hosts a bilingual English/Spanish rosary for the unborn on Fridays at 6 p.m.

Santo NiñoSt. Joseph Church hosts devotions to the Santo Niño (the Holy Child Jesus) on the first Saturday of every month at 4:30 p.m. The sacrament of reconciliation is offered during this time.

Shepherds of Christ AssociatesThe Shepherds of Christ Associates meet for prayer in the St. Michael Chapel of St. Joseph Church on Wednesdays at 7:30 p.m. and on the second and fourth Sunday of every month at 5 p.m.

Spanish Prayer and ReflectionPray the rosary and share reflections on the readings of the coming Sunday Mass at Holy Cross Church on alternate Tuesdays at 7 p.m. Meetings are in Spanish.

World Apostolate of FatimaThe World Apostolate of Fatima meets in the chapel at Holy Cross Church on Tuesdays at 5 p.m.

St. Joseph High School 50-year celebration Bishop Bevard will join Father Mark, SJHS Principal, and guests for dinner on Saturday, December 6, marking the 50th Anniversary of SJHS in Mt. Pleasant. Call 340.692.2005 for details.

Dominica Independence Day Celebration at St. Patrick, Nov. 9, 2014 during 10 a.m. Mass. Cardinal Kelvin Felix (retired), from Dominica, officiated. (l-r): Father Patrick Lynch, Cardinal Felix, Father Louis Kemayou and Father Boniface-Blancard.

St. John Calendar

All-night VigilOur Lady of Mount Carmel holds an all-night vigil on the first Friday of each month after the 7 p.m. Mass.

Charismatic PrayerOur Lady of Mount Carmel Church hosts an evening of charismatic prayer on Thursdays at 7 p.m.

Eucharistic AdorationOur Lady of Mount Carmel Church has Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament and Benediction on Thursdays from 7:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Free MealsOur Lady of Mount Carmel Church’s Kallaloo Kitchen: Food for the Soul feeds the needy in the parish’s Guadalupe Hall on Mondays and Fridays at noon. Volunteers are welcomed.

Legion of MaryPresidium Mary, Queen of Angels, meets in the Guadalupe Hall of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church on Tuesdays at 6 p.m.

Men’s FellowshipMen’s Fellowship meets the first and third Sunday of each month.

Spanish MassOur Lady of Mount Carmel has Spanish Mass at 6 p.m. Sundays.

Sunday Mass in Coral Bay Mass is celebrated each Sunday at 12:30 p.m. at the John’s Folly Learning Center in Coral Bay. For questions or transportation, call the church office at 776.6339.

Eventos Mensuales

• Oración Carismática Las oraciones en español se ofrecen en el Salón de Hospitalidad de la Catedral de San Pedro y san Pablo los lunes a las 6 p.m.

• La Ultreya Los jueves después de la misa de las 7 p.m. los cursillistas tienen su Ultreta. Las reunions en el trailer, en la oficina del Movimiento de Cursillos, y son en español.

• Legión de María El presidium hispano María, Arca de la Alianza se reúne en el Salón de Hospitalidad de la Catedral de San Pedro y San Pablo los domingos a las 2 p.m.

• Nueva Misa en Español La iglesia Nuestra Señora del Carmen de la isla de Saint John está ofreciendo una misa en español todos los domingos a las 6 pm .El celebrante oficial es el padre Eduardo Ortiz Santiago, párroco de la comunidad hispana de la catedral.

• Oración y Reflexión Se reza el Santo Rosario y se comparten las reflexiones de las lecturas del domingo siguiente, en la iglesia de Holy Cross los martes alternados a las 7 p.m. Las reuniones son en español.

• Rosario por los no nacidos La iglesia de San José invita a los rosarios bilingües en español e inglés por los no nacidos todos los viernes a la 6 p.m.

• Santo Niño En la iglesia de San José se rezan las devociones del Santo Niño (el Santo Niño Jesús) los primeros sábados de cada mes a las 4:30 p.m. Durante este tiempo se ofrecen confesiones.

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¡Buenas Noticias!

Last year's Keys and Sword co-honoree, Addie Ottley, monitors the audio cast of 10:30 a.m. Mass at the Cathedral. Co-honoree was Mr. Jean Dragin (not pictured).

Deacon and Tati Vasquez together after Mass at the Cathedral of Sts. Peter and Paul.


Visit the website of the Diocese of St. Thomas in the Virgin Islands at

www.catholicvi.com

Visit the Diocese of St. Thomas in the Virgin Islands on Facebook at

www.facebook.com/dioceseofstthomas

Read The Catholic Islander online atwww.catholicislander.com

27Advertise your business in The Catholic Islander! Call 340.774.3166, Ext. 213, for rates.

Serving the U. S. Virgin Islandsfor over 40 years!

John Thomas Memorial Chapel

Advertise your business in The Catholic Islander! Call 340.774.3166, Ext. 213, for rates.

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St. Croix

Christ the Lord! Today is born to you a Savior, who isTo shepherds keeping watch over their flocks: Christ the Lord! Today is born to you a Savior, who is ... at St. Paul Seminary

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