1. religion and spirituality
2. christianity
3. catholicism

The
Harvest
Vol. 30 No. 2
March/ April
2015
Diocese of Great Falls-Billings in Montana — Your Family’s Catholic Newspaper — www.diocesegfb.org
Always to
Walk in
Christ
By Bishop Michael Warfel
A Mid-Lent
Message
(with Thanks to
the Cum Christo
Movement)
I love to read about
the saints! Their lives
inspire me. I want to be
like them. There are a few
in particular whose lives
inspire me so much that I
would like to live as they
did. Unfortunately, I also
find their responses to the
call of God so deep and so
complete that it is more
than a bit frightening. My
level of faith is nowhere
near that of a saint, even
though I know it is why I
(as well as everyone else)
was created by God. It’s
one of the reasons why I
so appreciate the Season of
Lent. I find that during Lent,
I reflect more on my need
to respond at a deeper level
to the call of God in my life.
In reality, the
holiness of a saint can and
ought to be sought by
anyone who claims to be
Christian. Our response
to the Lord’s call must
be accomplished within
our own time and place
in history, and within the
particular circumstances
that surround us, along
with the talents and abilities
with which God has blessed
us. We just need to respond
to the grace of God available
always and everywhere
through the Spirit of the
risen Lord.
Lent is a special
season of the year to take a
serious look at how we are
living our faith and living it
in an actual way. We should
ask ourselves if we truly
are living as a “practicing
Catholic.” I suppose that
many of us will eliminate
something like dessert or
going to movies, as well
as possibly add something
to our daily routine, such
as few extra minutes of
prayer to the morning. This
is all good and well, but
the heart of Lent and the
reason for these kinds of
practices are supposed
to help us grow in our
relationship with the
Lord. Pope Francis has
called each and every
person to a personal
encounter with the Lord.
So, a good question to
ask of ourselves, as we
move deeper into Lent,
is whether we have such
a relationship and, if so,
how strong is it?
When we
truly respond to the
grace of God, our faith
will be embodied in
some concrete way.
The fundamental
convictions proposed
by the Church need
to express themselves
through a set of behaviors
such as prayer, worship
and ethical practices.
Behaviors indicate
whether or not we are
alive in faith. In more
colloquial terms, to
be alive in faith means
that we not only “talk
the talk” but “walk the
walk.” When we are alive
spiritually, our lifestyles
demonstrate it and our
Catholic faith is evident!
If our faith is to have any
level of vitality, we must
allow ourselves to be
led by the Lord. This has
real implications with
regard to our adherence
to doctrinal teachings as
well as how we deal with
moral issues.
In the many years
I served as a parish priest,
I was aware that many of
my Catholic parishioners
needed an extra spiritual
boost to help lead them
to a deeper level of
faith. General parish
life certainly had its
importance and nurtured
the faith of many, but I know that a
majority of parishioners
needed that extra boost
and a concentrated time
to be apart and step aside
in order to seriously
reflect on their faith.
I know firsthand that
many among the people
of God in eastern
Montana are quite alive
in faith. Sadly, I also know
that for many others, faith
continued on page 2
Last Sisters of Providence
leave ministry in Montana
Legacy began in 1864
By Jennifer E. Roseman, Director of Communication and Development
Ann Dolores Ybarrola, SP
Two Sisters of Providence took more
than their luggage with them when they boarded
a plane at the airport in Great Falls, Mont., in the
crisp early evening of Monday, February 2, 2015.
Sisters Maryann Benoit and Ann Dolores Ybarrola,
with 152 years of religious life between them,
were the last Sisters of Providence to serve the
needs of God's people in Montana. They carried
the faith, hopes, dreams, accomplishments and
legacy of countless Sisters of Providence who
have served in ministry in the state since 1864.
The first Sisters of Providence in
Montana - Sisters Mary of the Infant Jesus,
Mary Edward, Remi and Paul Miki - arrived
as missionaries. All were under 21 except for
Sister Mary of the Infant Jesus, who was 34. They
traveled by boat from Fort Vancouver up the
Columbia River to Fort Walla Walla, where there
were joined by three Jesuit priests. The travelers
came east across the Rocky Mountains, making
their way on horseback for 400 of the last 700
miles. Escorted by Chief Saltese, they arrived on
October 17, 1864, at St. Ignatius Mission, where
they met the Indians they had come to serve.
From St. Ignatius, the Providence ministry
expanded throughout present-day western
Montana and northern Idaho.
Called "Lady Blackrobes" by the
Indians, they were the first Catholic sisters to
arrive in Montana. "You are the first white
women who ever crossed the high Rocky
Mountains," the chief of the Flathead Indians
is said to have told them. "The Indians
admire your bravery."
The sisters' initial focus was to introduce
a "civilized way of life," beginning with
lessons on Christian values taught to Indian
children in schools for girls, some of them
boarders. Boys were taught by the Jesuits.
The schools were funded partially by the
sisters begging in mining camps and by
mission funds and personnel supplied by
the Catholic Church. The first government
financial assistance of $2,100 arrived in
1874, grew to $4,000 a year in 1878-1890,
and then evaporated. Those early educational
efforts later spread to other western states.
Prayer for the Year of Consecrated
Life (November 30, 2014, through
February 2, 2016)
Father, we thank You
for calling men and women
to serve in Your Son’s Kingdom
as sisters, brothers, religious priests,
consecrated virgins, and hermits,
as well as members of Secular
Institutes. Renew their knowledge
and love of You, and send Your
Holy Spirit to help them respond
generously and courageously
to Your will. Amen.
Maryann Benoit, SP
continued on page 10
Page 2 • The Harvest • March / April 2015 • Diocese of Great Falls-Billings • Established in 1904
Clergy Gather in
Billings for Winter
Assembly
Priests and Deacons and Parish Life Coordinators gathered in small groups to consider the
joys and challenges of the Order of the Permanent Deacon.
The annual winter Presbyteral Assembly was held at the Crowne Plaza in Billings
January 12-14, 2015. This year, the emphasis was on exploring the Permanent Diaconate.
In addition to presentations from Father Jay Peterson, Vicar General, and Deacon Mark
Zenner, Diocesan Director of the Office of Ministry Formation, Deacon Steve Rangel of the
Archdiocese of Santa Fe, NM, was the main presenter.
In addition to the priests, this assembly included the presence of many of our
Permanent Deacons and their wives. The history of the order in our diocese was reviewed,
and through group discussion, plans for continuing the diocesan formation program into
the future were reached.
Deacon Rangel enriched the process by sharing his experiences from the years that
he has had in leadership positions in his Archdiocese. Deacon Zenner will be starting a
new round of recruiting for another group to enter formation. Those who were ordained
Permanent Deacons in June, 2014, also contributed in a special way to the discussion, and
can look forward to serving as mentors when the classes begin in the Fall of 2015.
Deacon Steve Rangel (left), of Albuquerque, NM, is seated with Bishop Michael Warfel.
Register Now to Join an
Archaeological Excavation
Discover the Biblical City of Bethsaida
Applications for the Bethsaida Archaeological Excavation, May 16 to June 2, 2015,
are now being taken.
Bethsaida is a town frequently associated with the ministry of Jesus, and was home
to several of the apostles.
Accommodation is provided for two weeks at Kibbutz Ginozar.
There will be week-end outings to the holy sites in Galilee, and the group will
spend three days in Jerusalem. If interested, call 406-657-1076.
Free Advertising!
Diocese of Great Falls-Billings parishes and
schools receive a free 4 col. inch ad (the size
of this message) in “The Harvest” (subject to
availability of space, first come - first served).
Please send your info for upcoming events to
Father Jay Peterson,
[email protected].
Always Walk in Christ
continued from Front Page
is sort of “sterile” and their actual faith practice is little
more than casual. For this latter group, life in the Church is
more like being a member of the Social Club than being a
member of the Body of Christ. It is one of the reasons why
I so support initiatives that serve to “turn on the lights” for
Catholics when they, for all practice purposes, are sitting in
the dark.
I spent the first two weeks of February in Sidney,
Montana, at St. Matthew’s Parish. While there, I served as a
spiritual director for both the Men’s Cum Christo and then
the Women’s Cum Christo. These Cum Christo weekends
(formerly Cursillo in Montana) have been energizing
the faith of Catholics in eastern Montana for 50 years.
Literally tens of thousands of Catholics have attended these
weekends in eastern Montana. On the particular weekends
I have participated, I have consistently experienced people
come alive in faith. It is why I support them and why I
encourage parishioners to attend one.
Cum Christo is a short but concentrated course
on the Catholic faith (the original name “Cursillo” means
“course” in Spanish). It is an apostolic movement of the
Roman Catholic Church. It was founded in Majorca, Spain,
by a group of laymen in 1944. Its goal is to show Christian
lay people how to become effective Christian leaders over
the course of the three-day weekend. The weekend includes
fifteen talks, some given by priests and some by lay people.
The major emphasis of the weekend is to ask participants to
take what they have learned back into the world, on what is
called the “fourth day.” Essentially, this is what every person
baptized into the Church is supposed to be doing.
Believing and acting on our beliefs is crucial if we
are to benefit from our faith as well as effectively to do
our part in the Church’s mission to proclaim Christ. It is
how our faith as Catholic becomes vital and what it means
to be a vital Catholic! When we are open to allowing the
basic beliefs and convictions of the Church to shape our
lives, we responsibly assume our own role in the Church’s
mission. If we are not open, there is little reason to expect
that we would understand our part in the mission of the
Church! If Christ isn’t in our heart of hearts, we likely do
not understand.
When who do believe deeply in what God has done
for us in Christ, we want to conform our lives to his Gospel
and thus become effective instruments of the Gospel. We
may not do it perfectly, and at times we may even do it
poorly, but when we at least make the attempt we can be
confident that God is working in and through us. And, as
such, we are a vital part of God’s plan. If our faith is but
a burning ember as opposed to a blazing fire, it will have
little impact, not only in our personal lives, but also in our
ability to witness to others.
This summer, Big Sky Cum Christo (which
represents all the five Vicariates of the Diocese of Great
Falls-Billings) celebrates 50 years of helping to form,
educate and energize Catholics in the way of faith. A special
event is scheduled to take place at Billings Central Catholic
High School this summer from June 19 through June 21,
2015. The guest speaker is Tom Peterson, Founder and
President of Catholics Come Home. One of their TV ads was
offered by Lou Holst, former Head Coach of the University
of Notre Dame. Tom came alive in his faith following a
men’s retreat like Cum Christo at his home parish and
decided he had to do something to help others regain their
faith foundation in the Catholic Church.
As we journey through Lent, I pray that all will be
open to the graces that the Lord desires to give us this Lent.
Having taken the time and made the commitment to pray,
fast and give alms over these 40 days, we will then be ready
to celebrate the Lord’s passion, death and rising to life and
the new life we receive through this Paschal Mystery.
Immerse yourself in Mercy
Divine Mercy Sunday
April 10-12, 2015 at Mary Queen of Peace Parish
Church of the Little Flower
2411 3rd Ave South, Billings
Featured speakers: Dave and Joan Maroney
www.DivineMercyforAmerica.org
For more information, contact Matthew Low at 4
06-294-7601
The Harvest • March / April 2015 • Diocese of Great Falls-Billings • Established in 1904 • Page 3
Sisters of Providence choose 201519 Leadership Team
Twenty
Something
By Christina Capecchi
Four Sisters of Providence began a five-year term to provide leadership for Mother
Joseph Province on January 1, 2015. They are Sister Judith Desmarais, who continues to
serve as provincial superior; Sister Jo Ann Showalter, serving a second term as provincial
councilor; and Sisters Joan Gallagher and Josefina (Josie) Ramac, who are new members of
the Provincial Council.
In addition, two laywomen have been appointed to serve on the six-member
Mother Joseph Province Leadership Team: Jennifer S. Hall, who continues as provincial
treasurer, and Wendy Iwami, former executive assistant to the provincial superior, who will
serve as provincial secretary.
The provincial superior and provincial councilors were chosen in the Discernment
Chapter of Elections in Renton, Wash., in June and were confirmed by General Superior
Karin Dufault, SP, and the General Council in Montreal, Quebec.
In addition to leading the religious community, the provincial and council members
serve as corporate members of Providence Pariseau Corporation and also co-sponsor other
ministries, including Transitions in Spokane.
Sisters of Providence are Catholic women religious who respond to the needs of the poor and vulnerable through
education, parish ministry, health care, community service and support, housing, prison ministry, pastoral care,
spiritual direction and retreats, and foreign missions. Mother Joseph Province encompasses Alaska, Oregon,
California, Idaho, Montana,Washington, El Salvador and the Philippines. For more information, visit our Web site
at http://www.sistersofprovidence.net.
In 1920, National Council of Catholic Women (NCCW) was established at the
bequest of the U.S. Bishops who recognized the work accomplished by many separate
Catholic women's groups. At NCCW's first convention, American women from throughout
the United States representing dioceses and other women's organizations came together to
form NCCW's first Constitution and Bylaws! NCCW remains the umbrella for all Catholic
women. Our mission is still the same: through our membership NCCW acts to support,
empower and educate all Catholic women in spirituality, leadership and service with its
programs responding to Gospel values, to the needs of the Church and society in the
modern world.
NCCW's official birthday is March 4, 1920. We will be 95 years old!!! Your NCCW
Board of Directors started celebrating at our January board meetings with a birthday cake.
Celebrate with your council by having a birthday cake at your meeting or have a birthday
cake after Mass for your parish. Send us your pictures!
As a really special birthday present, consider sending a birthday gift to NCCW
of $95 for the 95th Birthday. Your name will be included in the program for the 2015
NCCW Annual Convention. Send your present designated "95th Birthday" to NCCW, 200
N. Glebe Rd., Suite 725, Arlington, VA 22203. Come celebrate with us at our 95th Birthday
Celebration Luncheon at the Annual Convention.
We belong to a national organization that is the VOICE OF CATHOLIC WOMEN. We
remain strong, determined and faith filled. HAPPY 95TH BIRTHDAY NCCW!
Submitted by Joby Parker.
Courage &
conviction:
how one young
Catholic saved
2,500 kids
Irena Sendler
was 29-years-old when
Nazi tanks slithered into
Warsaw, casting a shadow
of fear over the town and
slicing it apart with a
walled-off ghetto for the
Jewish residents.
There was no way she
could sit back and watch.
The social worker with
the shy eyes and round
baby face stood 4’11” and
possessed an unblinking
courage. She had two
guiding stars in life: her
Catholic faith and her
late father, a physician
who had died of typhus
contracted from lowincome patients.
So Irena took
action, pretending to be
a nurse in order to gain
access into the Warsaw
ghetto and deliver food
and medicine. The
grimness of their fate
became clearer with
every passing day, as
clusters were rounded up,
marched to the freight
yard and shipped an hour
away to Treblinka death
camp. The sight of the
youngest among them,
toddlers carrying their
dolls, haunted Irena.
She enlisted
her closest friends and
colleagues, mostly
young women, to form
a secret network for
the imprisoned Jews,
sneaking aide in and
smuggling children out.
Irena bundled babies in
garbage wagons and gave
them sleeping potions
to keep them quiet on
the way out. Kids were
directed through secret
passageways into sewers,
following whispers and
flashlights.
Parents were
forced to make “heartrending” calculations,
and Irena who could
not guarantee that their
children would survive
if they fled through her
network. “I still have
nightmares about it,”
she said in a 2011 PBS
documentary, tapping her
left index finger to her
temple.
“You’re going on
a wonderful adventure,”
one Jewish mother
explained to her son,
with whom she was later
reunited. “You’re going to
be a good boy.”
“You’re a big girl
now,” a father, who would
later die, told his 10-yearold. “Tomorrow you must
escape from the ghetto.
I can no longer protect
you.”
Irena embraced
the war-time orphans
as she routed them to
safe houses and then
permanent homes. “We
had to give them a lot of
love and attention to help
them adapt to their new
lives.”
Beyond the sheer
bravery required of the
endeavor – perhaps a
byproduct of Irena’s
youth – it was an act of
organizational might. She
coordinated each stop
with pinpoint precision.
The greatest help
came from Irena’s Catholic
connections. She called
on priests, who created
fake baptismal certificates
for the Jewish children.
They were taught Catholic
prayers so they could
demonstrate non-Jewish
heritage under possible
Nazi interrogation.
Despite the grave
risk, some 200 Polish
convents opened their
doors to the kids.
The sights, sounds
and smells of Mass
comforted Piotr Zettinger,
who was 4 when he
left his parents in the
ghetto. “For this hungry,
bedraggled boy,” he told
PBS, “taking part in these
beautiful and uplifting
ceremonies was quite
wonderful.”
The nuns were
always on guard for
German inspections.
Given their cue, Piotr
would run to the attic and
hide in a cupboard.
Miraculously, the
system worked. All the
Jewish kids placed in
convents through Irena’s
network survived the
war. In total, Irena saved
the lives of about 2,500
children.
She lived to be
98 and never considered
herself a hero. “It was
simple,” she said. “I
remember what my father
continued on page 7
Page 4 • The Harvest • March / April 2015 • Diocese of Great Falls-Billings • Established in 1904
Table
of Contents
Sisters of Providence..1,3
Tw e n t y S o m e t h i n g. . . 3
Leadership Summit.......4
S t . D i s m a s M i n i s t r y. . . 5
N C C W. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 , 6 , 9
Teaching on Vaccines .....7
Wiegarrd Grant.............8
Permanent Deacons ...9,13
Pro- Life..........................6,10
Rural Life....................11,13
Youth Ministry ..............14,15
Uganda Ministry..................16
Around the Diocese........17-23
S c h o o l N ew s. . . . . . . . 1 8 - 2 2
Subscription Address Changes..19
Care and Share Contribut i o n s w i l l b e p u bl i s h e d
monthly on our Web site:
w w w. d i o c e s e g f b . o r g
Publisher:
Most Rev. Michael W. Warfel
Submit News Articles to
Supervising Editor:
Rev. Jay H. Peterson
[email protected]
800-332-9998
406-727-6683, ext. 126
Graphic Designer
Mearle Tilton
Advertising Billing and
Mailing List:
Laurie Horton
[email protected]
Visit us at our
Web site:
www.diocesegfb.org
Past issues of “The
Harvest” can be found
online:
www.diocesegfb.org
(click on
“The Harvest” logo)
You can also visit us on
Facebook:
www.facebook.com/
pages/Roman-CatholicDiocese-of-Great-FallsBillings/131628450231611
The Joy of the Gospel
Leadership Summit
The Joy of the Gospel Leadership Summit is
scheduled to be held in Billings on September 11 and 12,
2015.
The Summit will be a work session of an estimated
300 representatives from our Diocese to prioritize and
formalize a Diocesan Pastoral Plan. Representatives will
include people from our parishes, our religious, lay
ministers, and service organizations within our diocese.
Bishop Warfel selected the title to mirror the
“pastoral plan” for the universal church which Pope Francis
addresses in his Apostolic Exhortation , The Joy of the
Gospel, “Evanlelii Gaudium.”
Why a Leadership Summit? The Bishop knows
that the Church of Eastern Montana has many needs. The
Leadership Summit will serve as an opportunity of the
parish leaders to provide input to prioritize the needs of our
Diocese. In turn these priorities will become a shared vision
of each of the parishes to support the future of the Church.
The priorities of our diocese are also the priorities of our
parishes who will also be involved and accountable for the
eventual pastoral plan.
Bishop Warfel has been/is visiting our parishes
to discuss his vision for the diocese and visiting with
parishioners. Following these visits Chancellor, Darren
Eultgen is facilitating “listening sessions.” To date about
75 of our 100 churches have been invited to a listening
session. The goal for the listening sessions has/is been to
answer three questions:
1. As we look into the future, what is the long term “hopes” of our parish or cluster?
2. What will be our “needs” as our parish looks to a
ccomplish some of our goals?
3. What can our Diocese do to help us with our hopes and needs?
Why such a huge undertaking now? Bringing
leadership together is healthy for any organization. The
sharing of common goals and challenges will create the
opportunity for bonding as well as provide for discussion
on how to address challenges in a unified manner. The
geographic size of our Diocese can create a feeling of
isolation. Similar topics are emerging from the listening
sessions. The Summit will provide a timely gathering of
ideas to set the goals that will lead us forward.
The responsibility for planning and content of the
Summit has been given to the Diocesan Planning Council
(DPC). The Council by definition “is a consultative body
in which representative clergy, religious and laity of the
Diocese of Great Falls-Billings come together with their
bishop to review, plan and evaluate all matters pertaining to
the pastoral life of the Church and the mission of the People
of God in Eastern Montana, and to make recommendations
about those matters to the bishop. The Council assists
the bishop in assessing the needs of the diocese, in
recommending priorities and in establishing goals and
objectives.”
Please pray for the members of the DPC as they
move forward with this important mission for our Diocese.
Updates will be posted. And will be shared in future
Harvest publications. Our next article will discuss the
responsibility of the attendees and how they will prepare
for the Summit. For further information on the DPC please
refer to the Web site http://diocesegfb.org/chancellor_301.
html.
Indian Taco Feed
Silent Auction
Friday, April 17, 2015
11:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Eat in or Call for Take-out
Knights of Columbus
906 Central Avenue West
Great Falls, Montana
Phone # 788-2291
Fundraiser for St. Martin de Porres Mission
Glendive Catholic
Daughters observe
centennial
On May 4, 2014, at Sacred Heart Parish in
Glendive, Montana, The Saint Katherine Court #239
of Catholic Daughters celebrated 100 years of united
prayer, service and charity to our local, state and national
communities.
The 69 local members, 11 of whom are Life Members
with over 50 years of service, kicked off the celebration
with prayer, fellowship, food and recognition delivered
by state and national representatives. Catholic Daughters
of Americas began nationally in 1903. Sacred Heart
women have been serving their mission of faith working
through love in the promotion of justice, equality, and the
advancement of human rights and human dignity for all
since almost the beginning. Article and photos submitted
by Christine Whitlatch.
Past local Regent, Patty Lee accepts a commemorate
plaque from Vice National Regent, Olga Samaniego (on
the right).
BILLINGS/ST.
PATRICK’S COUNCIL
1259
Knights of Columbus
Hall
2216 Grand Ave,
Billings
ANNUAL FISH FRY
Every Friday during Lent, Starting, Friday, February
20, 2015.
Fried Cod or Grilled Salmon and Grilled Cod while
supplies last
Tater Tots and/or Waffle Fries,
Cole Slaw, Mac ‘n Cheese.
Clam Chowder, Tossed Salad, Rolls,
PB ‘n Jelly Sandwiches
Milk, or Juice, or Coffee
Brownies & Ice Cream
ALL YOU CAN EAT!
Adults $9.00 – Kids $ 5.00
Serving from 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
EVERY FRIDAY DURING LENT
The Harvest • March / April • Diocese of Great Falls-Billings • Established in 1904 • Page 5
Pro Life DC Rally
Diocesan Pilgrimage
Set for World Meeting
of Families Next Fall in
Philadelphia
By Darren Eultgen, Chancellor
Seven students from the Great Falls area attended the March for Life in Washington
D.C. January 22, 2015. The students attend Great Falls Central Catholic, Belt and Shelby
High Schools. Seminarian Grant Kelly who studies at Catholic University of America in
D.C. joined the students for the Youth Rally and Mass for Life at the Verizon Center before
the march. (Left to Right) Ryan Schraner (Belt High School), Chloe Blevins (Shelby High
School), Andrea Morren (GFCCHS), David Shane (GFCCHS), Carter Anderson (GFCCHS),
Annie Shane (GFCCHS), Abbie Bliss (GFCCHS), Seminarian Grant Kelly (CUA).
St. Dismas Ministry in Great Falls
By Barb Thornton, Secretary for St. Dismas
It is with great anticipation and joy that we
cordially invite you to the 2015 World Meeting of Families,
September 22 – 27, 2015, at the Philadelphia Convention
Center in Philadelphia, PA. Since its inception by Saint John
Paul II in 1994, the World Meeting of Families has sought
to strengthen the sacred bonds of family across the globe.
Join us for a week of spiritual enrichment, as we discuss the
multifaceted issues facing families today during the various
keynotes and breakout sessions.
You will hear practical talks from a wide variety
of engaging speakers on the reality of the Catholic
teaching on marriage and family life. With a central
goal of strengthening families in very practical ways, this
conference promises to give all who attend something
to take home and share in their own faith communities.
Following the event we anticipate on being blessed to
celebrate Holy Mass with Pope Francis!
In order to manage the registration process,
accommodations, travel, etc., we have engaged Canterbury
Pilgrimages, an organization that has been specializing in
Catholic Pilgrimages and events for over 21 years! With
their assistance, we have three simple goals:
•
•
•
Encourage as many attendees as possible to join our diocesan pilgrimage to Philadelphia
Share the conference together as a diocese
Most importantly, return with a renewed sense of purpose regarding the family ministries we serve
Deadline to Register is
Monday April 6, 2015
Please visit the Diocesan Web site www.diocesegfb.org for
more information and registration information.
Volunteers of St. Dismas Ministry in Great Falls form an assembly line to fill 400 gift bags for
prisoners.
And the Lord said “…visit the imprisoned…” There are innumerable choices for
‘on the scene’ or ‘behind the scene’ ministries.
On the scene – St. Dismas volunteers visit within the jail’s common areas with a
minimum of two people. Saturday morning, the ministers offer “Sunday Celebrations in
the Absence of a Priest.” On Wednesday evenings, they visit all county inmates and on the
second and fourth Thursdays, all state inmates.
To participate in any of the ‘on the scene’ ministries, you are required to attend two
classes put on by the Sherriff’s Department. The next set of training sessions are scheduled
for the evenings of April 9 and 16, 2015. In any given month, the ministry provides 12
rosaries, 40 decks of playing cards, 1300 candy bars, 26 gallons of shampoo, 12 pair of
reading glasses, 24 reams of writing paper, 8 reams of drawing paper, and 80 meditation
books.
Behind the scene – if you’re not ready to commit to visiting the jail, there are
many other options available to provide assistance. Number one would be prayer. Pray
for the inmates, their families, their caregivers, and the success of the St. Dismas Ministry.
Volunteer to help with publicity – placing ads in Sunday bulletins, making fundraiser flyers,
or writing news articles. Perhaps you would like to call members without e-mail accounts,
or e-mail members of upcoming meetings, workshops, or information updates.
Make a donation – we can use bibles, paperback books for prisoner’s library,
notebook paper, greeting cards of all kinds, or items that can be sold at our fundraisers.
Or perhaps you would like to donate your time. The meditation books must have staples
removed and yarn to bind them; the shampoo must be poured into bottles from bulk; the
boxes of items to take to the prison must be loaded weekly; the cards must be sorted and
banded, or at Christmas time, we need many volunteers to put together the 400 goodie
bags that are gifted to the prisoners.
Another way to help is to volunteer at our fundraiser breakfasts. The next one is
scheduled for May 3, 2015, at the Knights of Columbus Hall. Please put it on your calendar
and offer to help or come to the breakfast.
We welcome as much or as little as you are prepared to give of your time and
talents. Our volunteers range from high school age to 93, men and women. If you are
curious or feel a tug from God, call Deacon Pete Woelkers at 899-PETE (899-7383).
official
announcements
Omitted in the previous issue of The Harvest,
concerning the roster of new members of the
Permanent Diaconate Advisory Board, was Mary
Ann Fossen of Joplin, a lay leader of prayer.
Rev. Mark Joseph Costello, O.F.M. Cap., is assigned
as pastor of St. Dennis Church in Crow Agency,
with the mission of St. Francis Xavier Church in
St. Xavier. This assignment is effective January 1,
2015. Bishop Warfel is grateful for the ministry
of his immediate Capuchin predecessors, Father
Charles Robinson, who served for many years,
and Father Larry Abler, who helped during the
transition.
Page 6 • The Harvest • March / April 2015 • Diocese of Great Falls-Billings • Established in 1904
NCCW Gathering in
Washington DC
Proclaim Christ!
Proclaiming Christ means showing
that to believe in and to follow Him is
not only something right and true, but also
something beautiful, capable of fulfilling life
with new splendor and profound joy.
-Pope Francis
Visit us online for more information about Care and Share:
www.CatholicFoundationMT.org
• Watch the short 2015 Care and Share Video!
• Learn the various ways to make your gift or pledge.
• Make your Care and Share gift or pledge online securely via credit card.
• Read through Frequently-Asked Questions about Care and Share
• Track your parish’s progress toward its 2015 goal and those of other parishes in our diocese
Thank you for supporting the
2015 Care and Share Annual
Catholic Appeal!
Sacred Heart Parish in Spokane, WA, is
seeking a dynamic Catholic
pastoral minister
Sacred Heart Parish in Spokane, WA, is seeking a dynamic Catholic pastoral
minister (PM) to supervise Sunday School and other pastoral responsibilities.
First and foremost, candidates must have a demonstrated ability to communicate
with and lead children and adults, a total commitment to Catholic teachings, and
experience coordinating and recruiting volunteers. The PM will coordinate and/or
teach K-6 religious education, Liturgy of the Word for young children, sacramental
preparation, and Vacation Bible School. The PM will serve as Safe Environment
Coordinator for parish volunteers. The position is part-time 20 hours per week, and
the schedule is flexible. Weekend and evening hours will be required. The PM needs
to be a visible and vibrant part of the Sacred Heart community.
This position has the potential for expansion to full-time hours. The
expanded job description describes potential job functions, but the specifics of this
role would be determined by the Pastor and Pastoral Council.
Sacred Heart is a faithful and generous faith community of over 300
families. We are a member parish of Cataldo Catholic School and a strong supporter
of social ministry projects in southeast Spokane. Rich tradition, long-standing
parishioners, and a thriving community with a heart for service make Sacred Heart
a special place to call one’s spiritual home.
Send letter of application, résumé and contact information for references to
Pastoral Minister Position, Sacred Heart Parish, 219 E. Rockwood Blvd. Spokane WA
99202. Also submit a digital copy of documentation to [email protected].
Applications accepted until April 17, 2015. Compensation is based diocesan scale
and includes medical/dental.
Washington, D.C. January 2015 — National Council
of Catholic Women continues decades-long tradition of
participating in March for Life, the largest pro-life event in
the world.
Active in the pro-life movement even prior to the
infamous Roe v Wade decision that legalized abortion in
1973, the National Council of Catholic Women has been,
since its foundation by the U.S. Catholic bishops in 1920,
a voice for the dignity of every human person.
NCCW President, Dr. Rebecca Woodhull, emphasized,
“Our voices must be heard throughout the country in
defense of life, traditional marriage, religious liberty and
many other issues that affect our ability to practice our
Catholic faith."
The National Council of Catholic Women has
always stood firmly with all U.S. Catholic bishops in
support of life and the dignity of human persons at every
stage of life, from conception through natural death. The
entire Board of Directors convened in Washington, D.C.
for the annual Board of Directors’ meeting and joined
together with Diocesan Councils of Women from all across
the country for the national pro-life activities, culminating
in the 42nd annual March for Life, where NCCW joined
the hundreds of thousands (some estimated half a million)
pro-life marchers making their joyful, prayerful trek from
the rally site on the National Mall to the Supreme Court.
The Harvest • March / April 2015 • Diocese of Great Falls-Billings • Established in 1904 • Page 7
Measles are making a
comeback, so what does the
Church teach about vaccines?
By Mary Rezac
(CNA/EWTN News) - Disneyland is supposed to be the Happiest Place on Earth, not the
place where you contract a highly contagious, once-eradicated disease.
Unfortunately, that is what happened at Disneyland in California, starting back in
December. The measles virus, likely carried by a tourist from a foreign country, started a
chain of infections that has now reached at least 87 people in seven states and Mexico. The
outbreak has also resurfaced arguments surrounding the vaccination of children.
At least 73 of the reported cases are in California, a state with large pockets of people
opposed to vaccination. Some places in southern California reach unvaccinated rates of
double digits, sometimes tripling the state and national averages, which are around 3 and 5
percent respectively.
Dr. Paul Cieslak is a Catholic parent of six who has overseen the Acute and
Communicable Disease Prevention section in the Public Health Division of the Oregon
Department of Human Services (DHS) since 1995. He is also a member of the Catholic
Medical Association, an organization committed to upholding the teachings of the Catholic
Church while advancing the profession of medicine.
According to Dr. Cieslak, opposition to vaccines largely comes from misinformation
regarding side effects.
“It is true that occasionally you can get a nasty side effect from a vaccine, as from
any medicine,” he told CNA. “That said, the vaccines are very safe, tens or hundreds of
millions of doses of this thing have been given with very little problem.”
Others who oppose vaccines fall into the category of religious or conscientious
objectors. Many who oppose vaccines on religious grounds do so because the cell lines of
some vaccines were developed from cells of aborted fetuses.
Dr. Marie T. Hilliard is a canon lawyer and the Director of Bioethics and Public Policy
at the National Catholic Bioethics Center (NCBC), a non-profit research and educational
institute committed to applying the moral teachings of the Catholic Church to ethical issues
arising in health care and the life sciences.
The NCBC, along with the Pontifical Academy for Life -- a Vatican body established
to provide information about issues in law and biomedicine -- have studied the moral
issues surrounding vaccines and have determined that it is morally licit, and even morally
responsible, for Catholics to use even those vaccines developed from aborted fetus cells.
“There’s a whole formula for examining these dilemmas in terms of what we call
cooperation in evil, and there are certain things that are always wrong, and there are certain
things that are tolerable,” Dr. Hilliard told CNA.
The Pontifical Academy for Life determined that the good of public health outweighs
the distanced cooperation in the evil of the abortions performed in the 1960s from which
the cell lines were developed. No new abortions have been performed to maintain these
vaccines, and no cells from the victims of the abortions are contained in the vaccines.
Currently the vaccine lines for rubella, chicken pox, and hepatitis A are the
remaining vaccines that have been developed from aborted fetal cells and for which there is
no alternative available.
“One is morally free to use the vaccine regardless of its historical association with
abortion,” reads a document from the NCBC based on the findings from the Pontifical
Academy for Life. “The reason is that the risk to public health, if one chooses not to
vaccinate, outweighs the legitimate concern about the origins of the vaccine. This is
especially important for parents, who have a moral obligation to protect the life and health
of their children and those around them.”
Those particularly susceptible to disease who can benefit from “herd immunity”
(when the majority of a population is vaccinated) include children too young to be fully
vaccinated, pregnant women, and those with suppressed immunity such as cancer patients.
The document goes on to say that Catholics should express their opposition to
vaccines developed from aborted cells, and that there is an obligation to use alternative
vaccines, should they exist.
Dr. Cieslak said he has vaccinated his children and encourages his patients to do
so as well. “As a parent, I don’t want my kids to get sick, I want them to feel confident
when they go into school or crowds or other settings that they don’t have to fear whatever
disease,” he said. “As a doctor and especially as a public health guy, I like to see the
disease rates go down, I like to see the population healthier, I like to see less money being
spent on treating diseases that are preventable.”
Still, Dr. Cieslak believes that people should be allowed the freedom to refuse
vaccines if they yet cannot reconcile them with their consciences.
“I think we are not cooperating in the evil of abortion by vaccinating our kids
because we had nothing to do with the original abortions, that’s a done deed,” he said.
“But still I know parental consciences are bothered by this and I think some rightfully so,
and so I think we need to respect that.”
While the new measles cases are cause for concern, the outbreak isn’t nearly as bad
as it could be, and that is thanks to vaccinations, Dr. Cieslak said.
“As a Catholic I would argue that it’s a socially conscious thing to do,” Dr. Cieslak
said. “It’s not only good for you, it’s good for your fellow man.”
Frequently asked questions about vaccines from a moral standpoint can be found
on the National Catholic Bioethic’s Center website at: http://www.ncbcenter.org/page.
aspx?pid=1284
The Pontifical Academy for Life’s statement on vaccines can be found at: http://
www.cogforlife.org/vaticanresponse.htm
Bishop to Wash Feet on
Holy Thursday
St. Vincent de Paul
Society of Cascade
County
426 Central Avenue West
Great Falls
Bishop Warfel will preside at a ceremonial foot
washing service at St. Vincent de Paul Store in Great Falls
on Holy Thursday. In contrast to the foot washing ritual
that occurs during the Holy Thursday Mass beginning
the Holy Triduum, those who have their feet washed will
be made up of residents of Great Falls who frequent St.
Vincent de Paul Store and are often economically stretched
and in need of assistance.
Though not a specific liturgical celebration, it
will be a time on Holy Thursday afternoon for those
in attendance to recall that Jesus once washed the feet
of his disciples. He did so in order to provide them as
well as people of every time and place an example. Jesus
demonstrated that he was a servant of God’s love and so,
too, all those must be who call themselves Christian. All in
the Great Falls area are welcome to attend.
Twenty Something
continued from page 3
had taught me: ‘When
someone is drowning, give
him your hand.’”
The Holy Father
issues the same challenge
again and again, beginning
with his inaugural homily
when he called us to be
“protectors of one another.”
We can do so, Pope Francis
said, by being “constantly
attentive to God.”
This February 2015
would mark Irena’s 105th
birthday. Our worlds may
be vastly different, but we
can honor her memory by
treating our neighbors with
the same compassion.
It is simple.
Christina Capecchi is a freelance
writer from Inver Grove Heights,
Minn., and the editor of
NationalCatholicSistersWeek.org
The Harvest (USPS 016493) is published
six times a year by the Roman Catholic Diocese
of Great Falls-Billings, 121 23rd Street South,
Great Falls, MT 59401-3997. Publication and
subscriptions are funded by the annual Care &
Share appeal and the Home Missions Committee
Grant. Periodicals Postage Paid at Great Falls, MT.
Postmaster and Subscriber:
Send address changes and all correspondence to
The Harvest, P.O. Box 1399, Great Falls, MT 59403-1399.
Telephone: 406-727-6683; 800-332-9998; Fax: 406-454-3480;
E-mail: [email protected].
Page 8 • The Harvest • March / April 2015 • Diocese of Great Falls-Billings • Established in 1904
E. L. WIEGAND FOUNDATION FUNDS
NEW HUMAN PERFORMANCE
CENTER AT GREAT FALLS CENTRAL
CATHOLIC
Great Falls Central Catholic High School (GFCCHS) is excited to announce that the
school has been honored as the beneficiary of a generous grant from the E. L. Wiegand
Foundation in the amount of $620,000.
During initial conversations with the E. L. Wiegand Foundation the future of our
school was discussed. “I immediately realized that a core value within the mission of
Central Catholic is the health and well-being of each student,” remarked the Foundation’s
President, Kristen Avansino. The Foundation invited an Application for Grant and the result
is the construction of the E. L. Wiegand Human Performance Center that will enlarge and
improve our current facility.
The new structure will house additional locker rooms, athletic director’s room,
referee’s room, a classroom and an exercise/fitness area with state-of-the-art training
equipment. The exercise and fitness center will be the site for training opportunities
for athletes, employees, guests and community members. In addition, GFCCHS will be
expanding athletic opportunities by adding Montana High School Association sanctioned
wrestling and tennis programs for the 2015-16 school year.
The addition of the E. L. Wiegand Human Performance Center will free up a 450
person seating area on the second floor of our current E. L. Wiegand Health and Fitness
Center. By utilizing this extra seating, GFCCHS will be able to host local tournaments and
summer camps.
“Our goal is to better serve Northern Division athletics and the Great Falls
Community as a whole. Currently, we have a proud partnership with the Montana Special
Olympics through Project Unify and we are in the beginning stages of partnering with the
Rescue Mission to support their summer program for children,” said Vickie Donisthorpe,
Principal.
The total cost of the building project is $769,000. To date GFCCHS has received
$620,000 from the E. L. Wiegand Foundation, $50,000 in private donations and $20,000
of in-kind donations. We are currently $79,000 shy of making the E. L. Wiegand Human
Performance Center a reality for generations of students and Great Falls community
members to come. Potential contributors who are interested in partnering with us to
reach our goal can contact Vickie Donisthorpe (Principal) or Hugh Smith (Advancement
Director) at 406-216-3344. The goal is to break ground at the end of April and complete
construction by the end of October 2015.
E. L. WIEGAND FOUNDATION
The E. L. Wiegand Foundation embodies the spirit of Edwin L. Wiegand, his
adherence to the work ethic, profound confidence in democracy and the free market
system, lifelong scientific curiosity, appreciation of the fine arts, and his belief in the
Roman Catholic faith. Established in 1982, the Foundation funds programs and projects of
organizations demonstrating excellence, achievement and significant impact in their fields.
CDA Juniors in Sidney
Junior Catholic Daughters Court Mother Cabrini
#1766 Sidney celebrated the 89th anniversary of JCDA
with a cake reception at St. Matthew’s. The girls had been
honored at Mass as well. Open to girls ages 6-18 they
serve their parishes and communities with energy and
always a smile! Front Row: Ayva Moreno, Ave’ Norby, Ella
Norby, Kinley Wiedland; Back Row: JCDA Leader Trisha
Klempel, Lina Langwald, Taylor Thiessen - President,
Abby Brodhead - Second Vice President, Josie Langwald.
Submitted by Jan Martineau.
CDA Billings Christmas
Party
Shown above are members of Catholic Daughters
of the Americas Court St. Cecelia #1151 in Billings at their
Christmas Party, December 10, 2014. They decided to buy
baby gifts for the mothers and babies of La Vie this year
instead of holding their own gift exchange. It was a very
good response, and the women at La Vie were very happy
with the donations. Pictured are: (left) Cecelia Jirges,
Financial Secretary; Margaret Larimer, Past Regent; Lois
Junso, President Regent; Carol Schaff, State Regent; and
Irene Wolf, Treasurer. Submitted by Lois Junso.
GREAT FALLS CENTRAL CATHOLIC
HIGH SCHOOL
GFCCHS provides a faith-based, college-prep, secondary education that stresses a
strong Catholic identity, academic rigor, and a safe and structured learning environment
with service as well as extra-curricular opportunities. Central is accredited by the Montana
Board of Public Education of the State of Montana, the Western Catholic Education
Association, and the National Catholic Education Association. For more information go to
www.greatfallscentral.org
Catholics for Life of Great Falls
Save the date: Tim Staples of
EWTN Catholic Answers will be
presenting in the Great Falls area
April 24-25. Watch for details in
your Sunday bulletin.
The Harvest • March / April 2015 • Diocese of Great Falls-Billings • Established in 1904 • Page 9
National Council of Catholic
Women decries 50 Shades
of Grey and Offers New
Domestic Violence Resource.
Nearly 1 out of every 4 U.S. women are the victims of severe intimate partner
violence, according to the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Women
are much more likely to be victims of intimate partner violence with 85% of domestic
abuse victims being women.
The highly publicized movie 50 Shades of Grey was released, with two sequels
planned. This film normalizes intimate partner violence and glamorizes sexual exploitation
of women. The National Council of Catholic Women has written a letter of dissent to
Universal Studios and I urge you and your parish Council of Catholic Women to write
editorial letters and contact your movie houses to ask that they not allow the film,” says Dr.
Rebecca Woodhull, President of the NCCW.
In her letter to the President and CEO of Universal Studios, Dr. Woodhull
emphatically denounced the vigorous marketing of sexual violence, domination and
submission to impressionable movie-goers, in whose minds deviance, sexual exploitation,
and violence against women will become normalized. She stated in the letter, “I have
encouraged our national membership to not only boycott this movie but also to speak out
against it and every other type of pornography, morally illicit or sexually explicit media.”
A new 51-page resource, Women Healing the Wounds, provides everything women
need to know about the issue and what we, practically, can do about it. It is available to
download free of charge, at nccw.org. Women Healing the Wounds includes a customizable
safety flyer, a section on teen dating violence (a growing problem), resources, Church
teaching, and more. Please visit the Web site, www.nccw.org.
For more information, call Laraine Bennett at 703-224-0990 or
e-mail [email protected].
Big Sandy Fr. Pete’s
Birthday
Father Peter Guthneck celebrated his 70th birthday at a
parish brunch in his honor.
K of C Billings Breakfast
Permanent Deacon Inquiry
Nights Scheduled
Deacon Mark Zenner, Director of Permanent Deacons and
Formation of Deacons, announced that the office of Ministry
Formation will be hosting a series of Deacon Inquiry Nights
in the coming months. Ten inquiry events are scheduled to be
held in each of two locations in every vicariate of the diocese.
The Inquiry Night program will offer an opportunity for those
considering the vocation of Permanent Deacon in service to
the Diocese of Great Falls-Billings to learn about the process
of application, receive an overview of the program and speak
directly with the director of the program and a deacon and his
wife. A new cohort of aspirants is slated to begin formation in
September of this year.
The activities of the evening are open to those men and
their wives seeking more information about the diaconate
with a special invitation extended to pastors, parish council members and those
parishioners interested in learning more about the formation experience.
All Deacon Inquiry Nights are scheduled to begin at 7:00 p.m. at parish locations
in Great Falls, Lewistown, Livingston, Billings, Miles City, Glendive, Sidney, Glasgow, Malta
and Havre. Please check the accompanying announcement for exact locations or contact
the Office of Ministry Formation at [email protected] or
by calling (406)727-6683.
SEE PAGE 13 FOR DETAILS
The 62nd Annual MEXICAN FIESTA and
19th Annual FIESTA CAR SHOW
will be held at South Park and Guadalupe Church Hall in Billings, Montana on July
25, 2015, from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. with authentic Mexican food as well as
Music, Dancers, Children's Activities and Silent Auction. The event is sponsored by
the Fiesta Planning Committee of Mary Queen of Peace Parish. For more information
about the Fiesta, call Bill Contreraz (406) 839-0904. For the Car Show, call Jay Krug
(406) 348-4033 or Char Krug (406) 628-8872.
Thanks to chairman Br. Jon Swecker, and 20 St. Pius X
Council 9976, Knights and wives on the kitchen crew
worked 90 hours to serve 138 meals during the recent RCIA
and Parish Family Breakfast. Part of the crew are in this
photo submitted by Grand Knight Phil Zeeck. Also,
congratulations to the newest Third Degree members in our
Order; Justin Blackman, Michael Bowles, Markus Hulquist,
Andrew McLain, Nicholas Modrow, Dan Robinson and
Michael Willis. Get active Brothers; the council needs your
expertise. Submitted by Harold Kelso.
U Free Advertising!
Diocese of Great Falls-Billings parishes and
schools receive a free 4 col. inch ad (the size
of this message) in “The Harvest” (subject to
availability of space, first come - first served).
Please send your info for upcoming events to
Father Jay Peterson,
[email protected].
Page 10 • The Harvest • March / April 2015 • Diocese of Great Falls-Billings • Established in 1904
Miles City, Sacred
Heart
Sisters of Providence
continued from Front Page
Wherever the sisters had settled since the arrival of Mother Joseph of the Sacred
Heart, foundress of the Sisters of Providence in the West in Fort Vancouver in 1856, they
opened hospitals and/or schools, began social services and were asked to teach religion
to the settlers' children. Following that tradition, the sisters in Montana pioneered early
hospitals in Missoula (1873), Fort Benton (1886) and Great Falls (1892).
There is much more to this history than can be recounted here, but one has only to
look at some of the major institutions in Great Falls and Missoula to realize what an impact
the sisters made.
Great Falls
Central Catholic High School
College (now University) of Great Falls
Columbus Hospital
St. Gerard School
St. Peter and St. Paul Parish & School
St. Thomas Home (now St. Thomas Child & Family Center)
Missoula
Bishop Warfel had a message to deliver to students
across the state during Catholic Schools Week. When
the Lord calls us, we need to answer. During the Mass
at Sacred Heart in Miles City, the Bishop called on 7th
grader McKenna Friend to come forward. With a bit of
apprehension, she did come up and received the message
first hand.
Sacred Heart students, parish members, and the
local Knights of Columbus joined other Catholics across the
nation taking a stand for the unborn during the National
March For Life. With flags, like the one held by 7th grader,
Lila Freese, and flowers the students prayed the Rosary in
the parking area of the former Ursuline Convent, located at
the intersection of two of Miles City’s busiest streets. The
roses were placed by 1st grader Morgan Leesburg at the
base of the Knights’ memorial to the unborn.
Sacred Heart Academy
St. Anthony School
St. Patrick Hospital
St. Patrick School of Nursing
St. Francis Xavier School
The roll call of pioneering sisters who established the foundations there is
impressive, as is the list of still living sisters who carried on their works in the former St.
Ignatius Province.
Ask the old-timers about Sisters Loretta Marie Marceau, the financial whiz who made an
art of wise stewardship and encouragement of donations to support the ministries; Mary
Trinitas Morin, a gifted artist and educator whose works shine on the University of Great
Falls campus; Rita Mudd, who made her mark as president of the College of Great Falls and
who was a beloved teacher at St. Thomas Home in Great Falls and at Loyola Sacred Heart
High School, St. Francis Xavier School and Sacred Heart Academy in Missoula; Kathryn
"Kitsy" Rutan, who served at St. Thomas Home, St. Peter & St. Paul School and the College
of Great Falls and who later became general superior of the international congregation
in Montreal; Peter Claver Thomas, who ministered at Columbus Hospital and then was a
legendary administrator at Sacred Heart Medical Center in Spokane; Mary Kaye Nealen,
former professor and provost of the University of Great Falls, now serving as a general
councilor in Montreal; and Providencia Tolan, who embraced and was embraced by the
Indian people and served at St. Thomas Home and the College of Great Falls.
That is just a hint of the footsteps Sisters Maryann Benoit, Ann Dolores Ybarrola and
others have followed in as they have been providence to the people of Montana.
Sister Maryann traces her introduction to Montana to her days as a student at the
College of Great Falls (CGF), where she earned a BA degree in education and English
in 1953. After teaching elementary and secondary school, she returned to Montana as a
professor in the English department of her alma mater, where she served for 19 years. She
was invited to teach in Japan and was an advisor to Japanese students at CGF. In 2000, the
University of Great Falls Alumni Association presented her with the Alumni Recognition
Award for outstanding leadership, professional achievement and scholarly work.
Sister Ann Dolores is a Montana native, born in Havre, and lived in the state for much
of her life. She was educated at St. Thomas School in Great Falls, where her father arranged
for his children to be cared for after the death of their mother at 35. She spent classes in
summer sessions at CGF to earn a degree like so many other Sisters of Providence, and then
became an elementary school teacher. She delighted in the fact that the classroom she and
other first- and second-grade boarders were taught in at St. Thomas Home in 1944-45 was
the very same one she was assigned to teach first graders in nine years later. She later was a
high school teacher, principal and office manager at Sacred Heart Academy in Missoula and
Central Catholic High School in Great Falls. She
served in ministry at the College (University) of
Great Falls for 19 years, in institutional research,
the registrar's office and financial aid. Upon
her retirement, she was presented at the 1992
commencement with the Emilie Gamelin Award
"for dedicated service to the College of Great
Falls in the spirit and example of Mother Emilie
Gamelin".
After their retirement, the two housemates
threw open their hearts and home to people
who needed but could not afford assistance
with writing applications and essays, editing
and occasional translating. Sister Maryann also
mentored writers and teachers, including some of
her former students.
Sisters Maryann and Ann Dolores stayed in
Montana for as long as they could, until the
demands of age and infirmity led them to
accompany Provincial Leader Judith Desmarais to
their new home at St. Joseph's Residence in Seattle.
Their days are spent with the sisters there, but
no doubt Montana figures prominently in their
dreams.
Sister Mary of the Infant Jesus
The Harvest • March / April • Diocese of Great Falls-Billings • Established in 1904 • Page 11
The Value of Farms, Families,
and Rural Life
By William Patenaude
I was re-lacing my
shoes on an airport security
bench when I got word
about Cardinal Turkson.
He wasn’t able to attend
the Faith, Food, & the
Environment symposium in
St. Paul, Minn., where I was
headed.
[Editor’s note: Cardinal
Peter Turkson, the President of the
Pontifical Council for Justice and
Peace, was originally slated to lead
and keynote the Faith, Food & the
Environment symposium. But just
a few days before the event, he was
called upon by Pope Francis to
strengthen the Vatican’s response
to the escalating Ebola crisis in
West Africa. Father Michael
Czerny, SJ, his Chief of Staff,
represented Cardinal Turkson at
the symposium and delivered his
prepared remarks.]
I wondered if I
should plead my case at the
ticket counter. The cardinal
was supposed to have
spoken about Pope Francis’s
planned encyclical on
ecology and I write about
the Catholic perspective of
ecology. So if the cardinal
wasn’t going, why should
I?
The gate agent
announced my boarding
zone and the good Lord
got me thinking about
all the opportunities He
would provide at this
unique symposium. So I
boarded the plane. Before
long I was far from the
suburbs of Rhode Island,
heading west high over the
communities and farms
that Catholic Rural Life has
been supporting for over
ninety years.
The woman in the
window seat next to me
hadn’t been on a plane
since she was four. She felt
at ease chatting with me,
recounting her youth in a
small town in the South.
Her dad had been the
mayor of a place where
everyone knew everyone,
where farming was what
people did. She praised the
beauty of rural America not
easily seen from 30,000
feet. She got me thinking
of the sorts of people I’d be
meeting in St. Paul.
In the following
two days at the University
of St. Thomas, the often
academic ecclesial
statements about ecology
that I had studied for so
long came alive like the
dry bones in Ezekiel when
God roused them with His
Spirit.
As so as a “thank
you” to Catholic Rural Life,
I’m sharing what so many
shared with me. I do so to
remind CRL members and
supporters that what you
do is so very important.
Here are three
reasons why:
Human ecology is real
I’ve written
extensively about what
Saint John Paul II called
“human ecology.” This
term—used again and again
by his successors—has a
number of meanings, but
in general it implies that
just as there are laws of
nature that we must follow,
so there is a Natural Law
that we should also follow.
Benedict XVI
famously wrote that
“Our duties towards the
environment are linked
to our duties towards the
human person…. It would
be wrong to uphold one set
of duties while trampling
on the other.”
Pope Francis
continues to stress this in
his own way. He uses the
term “culture of waste” to
link how we can throw out
people as easily as we do
food.
At the Faith,
Food, & the Environment
symposium, organic farmer
Ron Rosmann of Iowa
and cattle rancher Mike
Callicrate of Colorado shed
new light on those words.
I met Mike on the shuttle
bus to the University of St.
Thomas. I was moved by
his experiences as a rancher
who hopes to change what
is considered “business as
usual” in the meat industry.
Later I chatted with Ron
about his family and
community—and about
farming with people and
the environment in mind.
They both were kind to
share their insights. They
lived the link that Benedict
XVI wrote about. They
deplored the wastes that
Pope Francis railed against.
Catholic
Rural Life’s president
Bishop Paul Etienne of
Cheyenne, Wyoming,
and board member Dr.
Christopher Thompson
of the St. Paul Seminary
School of Divinity had
both mentioned the
incarnational reality of
working in the agrifood industry. The lived
experiences of Mike and
Ron—and many others—
made present for me what
it means to be a disciple of
Jesus Christ while working
to produce food for others.
Families are essential
A few weeks before
the symposium in St. Paul
there was a gathering in
St. Peter’s in Rome. You
may have heard about it.
The Synod on the Family
had the mainstream media
all worked up, but in the
end—and in subsequent
statements—we heard
Pope Francis stress the
importance of the natural
family.
I would say that
family was the fourth
theme of the Faith,
Food, & the Environment
symposium. In order to
build cultures that respect
life and that expect ethics to
be a part of doing business,
there must first be families
that teach us how to be
human—how to work
hard, love sacrificially, and
care for one’s neighbors.
“A large and busy
family unified by working
together on a family farm
is a good worth promoting
and protecting,” said
Bishop Etienne.
This is a hallmark
of Catholic Rural Life, as
we know from its founder,
Archbishop Edwin V.
O’Hara, who said in a 1935
homily: “The burning
concern of the Catholic
Church with agriculture
arises from the altogether
unique relationship, which
exists universally between
the agricultural occupation
and the central institution
of Christian, nay, of all,
civilization; namely, the
family.”
Catholic Rural Life is a
hidden gem
In light of all this—
and much, much more—I
was delighted to see the
Church at work in the
world. That is, to see God’s
grace elevate the nature of
individuals, building up a
community dedicated to
helping others in the daily
duties of one’s life.
On the flight home
I had the window seat.
Sunlight was amusing
itself with cumulous
clouds spreading rain
on thousands of farms
below, all alive in the reds,
yellows, and browns of
November.
I don’t know who
else on that plane thought
of those farms and their
families. But thanks to
Catholic Rural Life, I
appreciated them in ways
that I hadn’t before.
My newfound
appreciation of farmers,
ranchers, and all those in
the food industry won’t be
the greatest achievement
of Catholic Rural Life. But
what happened to me
should encourage all who
work directly or indirectly
with this organization—
this family.
After all, it’s vital
to bring the voice of the
Church to rural America—
to teach and support those
who raise families, who
work hard in places few
have heard of, who do
what needs doing so that
others can benefit from
the bounty of God’s good
earth.
Since 2004, Bill
Patenaude has been writing
“Catholic Ecology” (http://
catholicecology.net/) for The Rhode
Island Catholic. He also writes
about Catholicism and social
commentary for local and national
publications, including Catholic
World Report and Ignatius Insights.
Page 12 • The Harvest • March / April 2015 • Diocese of Great Falls-Billings • Established in 1904
The Harvest • March / April 2015 • Diocese of Great Falls-Billings • Established in 1904 • Page 13
Catholic
Rural Life
Conference
Saturday,
May 2, 2015
9am to 12:30pm
St. Matthew Parish
Hall, Sidney, MT
Speakers:
Bishop Michael Warfel:
“The Vocation of the
Agricultural Leader”
James Ennis &
Chris Thompson:
“National Catholic Rural Life”
Mike Mayott:
“Farmer to Farmer Program”
Darren Eultgen:
“Joy if the Gospel Leadership
Summit”
Presentation of the Bishop
Edwin V. O’Hara Diocesan
Rural Life Award
To Register: call or e-mail
Darren Eultgen
(406)727-6683 or
[email protected]
Page 14 • The Harvest • March / April 2015 • Diocese of Great Falls-Billings • Established in 1904
Youth Ministers Gather
Across the Diocese
Over the past year, Directors of Religious Education, Youth Ministers and
Volunteers have been gathering in small groups to support each other in prayer and
fellowship while getting to know each other and share experiences. These meetings are
called “2:42 Gatherings” after the Acts of the Apostles, “They devoted themselves to the
teaching of the apostles and to the communal life, to the breaking of the bread and to the
prayers” (Acts 2:42). Some parishes are large and some only serve a few kids. Some have
many activities and others are rebuilding after changes in ministry leadership. But all of
these amazing servants of the Lord love kids and want to share our Catholic faith with
them and their families.
The next 2:42 Gatherings:
March 22, 12:30pm at St. Joseph’s Church in Plentywood,
hosted by Debbie Hagan
March 26, 11:30 a.m. at the Great Northern in Malta, hosted by Brenda Rummel
April 11, 9:30 a.m. in Red Lodge, hosted by Ruth Moon
(location to be determined)
April 21, 11:30 a.m. at the Main Street Grind in Miles City,
hosted by Robbin Makelkey
Save the Date!
The Youth Ministry and DRE Retreat
at St. Thomas Camp will be held this year
on August 14-16, 2015, for all staff and
volunteers who minister to young people in
our diocese. This is a unique opportunity to
come together in one place to enjoy a time
of prayer, learning, fellowship and social
time.
NOTE: If you are a volunteer
religious educator or youth minister in your
parish and have not yet been connected with
the new office of Youth and Young Adult
Ministry or if you would like to host a 2:42
Gathering in your area, please contact Mandy
Bell at [email protected]
or 406-263-7485.
Pam Halligan and Brenda Estill of St.
Patrick’s Co-Cathedral attended the last
“2:42 Gathering” in Billings
Bishop to Lead
Delegation of Teens
to NCYC This Fall
Bishop Warfel invites high school teens to join
him at the upcoming National Catholic Youth Conference
(NCYC) in Indianapolis, IN, this November 19-21 2015.
NCYC is the largest Catholic youth gathering in the US.
Our young people get to experience what it means to be a
“World Church.” They join their voices with 25,000 teens
from nearly every state, hearing top Catholic Speakers such
as Mark Hart, Father Leo Patalinghug, and Chris Padgett,
plus recording artists like Matt Maher and Jackie FrancoisAngel.
Courtney Capdeville, a senior from St. Albert’s in
Hinsdale attended NCYC in 2013 and she remembers, “It
was so cool to be with so many other Catholic kids. My
favorite part was seeing all of the priests processing into
Mass with thousands of us cheering them!” Participants
celebrate liturgies in the Lucas Oil Stadium where the Colts
play and more than 200 Bishops, Priests and Religious are
in attendance. It is a holy experience that our high school
teens should not miss.
It seems like a long way off, but commitment of
deposits and registrations are due by the end of April. We
have reserved 60 spots for youth and chaperons available
on a first come, first served basis. Registration forms are
online at diocesegfb.org and all registrations must be
done as a “diocesan delegation” (registrations must go
through the diocese, not directly to NCYC). See more on
Facebook or Youtube.com @NCYC. The approximate cost is
$1200 per person and there is plenty of time to do a little
fundraising.
Parents and Grandparents—if you know you want
your teen to attend this life-changing event, please contact
your Youth Minister or Director of Religious Education
right away. (If your parish does not have someone in this
role, please call NCYC Coordinator, Mandy Bell at
406-263-7485)
EWTN’s Barber and Romero in
Glendive for
Parish Mission & Youth Event
Deadline Approaching
for Young Adult WYD
Scholarship
Jesse Romero and Terry Barber
Nationally acclaimed Catholic speakers, authors, evangelists and EWTN radio
personalities, Terry Barber and Jesse Romero will be at Sacred Heart in Glendive for a Parish
Mission April 10-12, 2015. Starting with a prime rib banquet and fundraiser with Barber
and Romero (tickets are $50 in advance with only 120 sold). The Mission will also include
a Youth Lock-in for grades 9-12 on Friday, April 10 at 8:00 p.m. Teens and their chaperons
from throughout the diocese are invited for talks with these dynamic speakers, food,
fellowship and a DJ at the end of the evening. Overnight accommodations are available for
out of town Youth Groups at the parish center. Registration is requested for the Youth Lockin by contacting Sacred Heart Parish at 406-377-2585 or e-mail Father Francis Schreiber at
[email protected] for more information.
The Mission continues with talks all day on Saturday, April 11, beginning at 8:00
a.m. with Barber and Romero speaking on topics that include Apologetics, Raising Catholic
Children, Nurturing Our Faith and Divine Mercy. Masses will be offered both Saturday
evening at 4:00 p.m., and Sunday at 9:00 a.m., and concluding remarks will be at 10:00
a.m. on Sunday, April 12.
The diocese is offering a scholarship for
one young adult, between the ages of 18 and 30,
who would like to attend World Youth Day 2016 in
Krakow, Poland ($3800 value). Candidates must
complete an application, provide one reference from
a Pastor (or Parish Life Coordinator), Youth Minister
or Director of Religious Education and talk about
their financial need. The deadline is approaching
on March 30. Applications may be obtained on the
World Youth Day page at diocesegfb.org (click on
Pope Francis’ photo) or by calling Mandy Bell at
406-263-7485.
April 10-12 Sacred Heart Parish in
Glendive Parish Mission with
nationally acclaimed speakers and hosts of EWTN Radio
“Reasons for Faith”
Jesse Romero and Terry Barber
April 10, 7:00pm “Meet the Speakers”
Banquet & Fundraiser
April 10, 8:00pm Teen Time Lock-In, Talks and Dance
April 11, 8:00am begins a day of talks for all ages
April 12, 9:00am Mass and Reflection on Divine Mercy
(see Harvest article for more detailed information or call
Father Francis at 406-377-2585)
The Harvest • March / April 2015 • Diocese of Great Falls-Billings • Established in 1904 • Page 15
“Adopt a Pilgrim” and Support
World Youth Day
The Diocese of Great Falls-Billings has
assembled a wonderful delegation of young people
(and a few older ones) that will be traveling to Krakow,
Poland, for World Youth Day in the summer of 2016.
At this printing, we have a wonderful group of 50
pilgrims and a waiting list started. (It may be possible
to add more, so please call if you are interested.) Some
of these young adults are struggling to pay the $3800
cost of the pilgrimage, so you will see fundraising
activities all over the diocese this next year in the
communities of Ekalaka, Colstrip, Billings, Laurel,
Sidney, Glasgow, Saco, Malta, Lewistown, Livingston, Great Falls, Belt and Laurel, where
these pilgrims live and worship.
However, if you would like to make a direct gift to support World Youth Day,
you have the opportunity to “Adopt a Pilgrim” and your contribution will go toward
helping a young adult who needs it most. Your tax-deductible gift may be made online
at diocesegfb.org, clicking on the “World Youth Day” page and by putting “WYD Gift”
in the invoice box. Or you can mail a check to World Youth Day, in care of the Catholic
Foundation of Eastern Montana, P O Box 1399, Great Falls, MT 59403, and indicating
“WYD Gift” in the memo. Please note that funds received in support of a specific
pilgrim will not qualify as a charitable contribution for tax purposes. If you have any
questions, please contact Judy Held at 800-332-9998.
“Taste of Poland Dinner”
Mardi Gras
Celebrated Across
the Hi-Line Before
Lent
St. Mary’s in Malta hosted their first annual “Night at the
Races” Horse Races, Cajun Dinner and Silent Auction for
fun and to raise money to help send 10 Pilgrims to World
Youth Day in Krakow, Poland next year
St. Raphael’s (Glasgow), St. Albert (Hinsdale) and St. Mary’s (Malta) came together for a
“Taste of Poland Dinner” fundraiser for World Youth Day in Glasgow.
Great Things Happening at
St. Thomas Camp
Registration is open for
campers in grades 5 through 12;
great plans are coming together for
the Teen Leadership Week; a Camp
Manager and Counselors have been
hired a Webpage is up with great
videos and photos (at diocesegfb.
org); a new logo is being posted
in all of our parishes; and the
latest news…. “St. Clement Chapel
at St. Thomas Camp.” That’s
right—St. Clement’s in Monarch
has been physically moved to St.
Thomas Camp so this lovely chapel
is still serving the community
of Monarch, but is located
on the grounds of St. Thomas
Camp. There are wonderful possibilities with camp this summer, including more Masses,
Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, and a sacred place for counselors and campers to have
daily prayer and reflection.
To register your child, tween or teen online, to see the 2015 schedule, and to
find more information on St. Thomas Camp, visit diocesegfb.org or call 800-332-9998.
Deadline for discount fees or scholarships is May 1.
St. Raphael’s in Glasgow celebrated their 54th Annual
Mardi Gras Carnival for kids of all ages. They have 5
Pilgrims going to World Youth Day.
Register online at Diocesegfb.org
or call 800-332-9998
The young people at Immaculate Conception in Wolf Point
did a great job making “Mardi Gras Floats” out of boxes
and the parish voted for the most creative.
Page 16 • The Harvest • March / April 2015 • Diocese of Great Falls-Billings • Established in 1904
Impacting lives through
Social Media
Kit Tambo is pictured here with members of the Rumonge
Deaf Community, operated by The Brothers of Charity in
Kigome, Tanzania.
Kit Tambo is with some orphans in front of the foundation of the new orphanage building in
Kiganda. The new building will be home to 100’s of orphans in the bush. With her are some
orphans and Children’s Future Foundation director, Emmanuel Bigirwa.
Pope John Paul II wrote in his message, “Internet: A New Forum for Proclaiming the
Gospel,” “the most recent advancements in communications and information have put the
Church in front of previously unheard-of possibilities for evangelization.” The same message
was echoed by Benedict XVI and later by Francis. When Kit Tambo of Billings, Mont., heard
about the message, she got busy. She began gathering images of religious art and combined
them with quotes, prayers of saints, teachings of the early Church fathers and Her doctors
then started posting them on a Facebook group page. Her posts caught the attention of
many Catholic Facebook page administrators worldwide. She was amazed at the responses.
A novice to Facebook at the time, she had only a 60 “friends.” Today she has over 1,000
friends and followers. She was asked to be an administrator for many Catholic pages.
While chatting with a Ugandan catechist who saw her posts, she found out he
travels to rural areas or the “bush,” of his country preparing youth for baptism, first
communion and confirmation. He sent pictures of his youth group and some photos
showed children getting their water for everyday use.
Kit was appalled.
The images were of young kids dipping five gallon jerry cans into dirty waterholes
from springs. This prompted Kit to action. She created a Facebook page that solicited
donations to build a well. The response was tremendous, and the first water project was
started and completed within weeks. The water project turned into a clothes collecting
project with where parishioners on Facebook from St. Thomas, Mary Queen of Peace and St.
Pius X of Billings, Mont., donated and sent new and used clothing to the villages.
As her relationship with African communities grew, Kit learned that people living
in the bush had no consistent source of protein or meat. The majority of their nutrition
came from vegetables and corn. She then facilitated poultry projects so villagers could have
chickens and eggs to eat and sell. To date Kit is responsible for seven water projects and
three poultry projects in Uganda and Tanzania, helping thousands.
In March of 2014, she travelled to Africa for a four-month mission trip at a Uganda
village, and a deaf community in Tanzania, Africa, run by The Brothers of Charity. When
arriving in Uganda, her hosts wanted to put her up in a hotel one hour away from the work
site. To eliminate a two hour daily commute from a hotel, Kit slept on a rollaway bed at
the school with no running water and sporadic electricity. During the day she travelled on
the back of a motorcycle delivering clothes, supplies and chickens to villagers in the bush.
Being with the villagers and photographing the projects was evidence of her work and she
was able to get more donations through the internet. Kit’s latest project is an orphanage
near the community where she was volunteering. The project is being headed by an NGO
(non-governmental organization) and is also supported by donations through Facebook
pages she started.
In addition to the work on water and poultry projects, Kit also has invested in
vocations by supporting Ugandan seminarians she has “adopted.”
“The seminaries are full of young men who come from poor families and struggle
to make their tuition co-payments to complete their courses,” Kit said, “I then started
looking for help for their fees so they can complete their vocation courses,” She continued,
“Scriptures says, ‘Faith without works is dead.’ I spent my time reading about saints, Church
teaching, going to Adoration and volunteering but I had an internal desire to do more. After
serving in the bush, something happened. It put things in perspective for me and showed
me how much we take for granted here. With as little as these people have, they are the
happiest and most faithful people I’ve met.”
If you would like to donate to these causes, visit:
https://www.facebook.com/savingliveswithcleanwater
https://www.facebook.com/poultryprojectsforafrica
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Another-Chance-Orphanage
https://www.facebook.com/pages/ADOPT-A-Seminarian
For additional information and volunteering opportunities,
call Kit Tambo at (406) 252-2950
Kit Tambo is pictured here with children and school
administrators in front of the rain collection system in a
school near Kiganda, Uganda.
How to include your
parish in your
Last Will & Testament
Ask your attorney to use the following language
when drafting or updating your will:
I give $_______ (or _______% of my residuary
estate) to the Roman Catholic Bishop of Great
Falls, Montana for the benefit of (insert your
parish’s name and city).
Thank you for remembering God’s
will in yours!
For more information, contact
Judy Held, Catholic Foundation of
Eastern Montana at
800-332-9998, ext. 120 or judy@
catholic foundationmt.org
PO Box 1399 Great Falls, MT
59403-1399
Thank you!
The Harvest • March / April 2015 • Diocese of Great Falls-Billings • Established in 1904 • Page 17
Around
the
Diocese
Hingham and Inverness Youth
St. Philip Bonitus Church in Scobey
Plans Centennial Celebration
Send in your
photos
and stories!
When submitting
photos and articles
for publication in
“The Harvest:”
• If sending the
information by
e-mail please save
the document as
an RTF file or copy
and paste the story/
caption into the body
of the e-mail. When
sending photos
online, please save
them as TIFFs, JPGs,
or PDFs and attach
them to the e-mail.
On December 10, 2014, the fathers and sons of the
Our Lady of Ransom (Hingham) and Sacred Heart
(Inverness) CYO students served the mothers a ham meal
in appreciation for all they do to support and help in the
activities of the parish. A program about the Immaculate
Conception was presented by the students following the
meal. Submitted by Dianne Falk.
Rev. Jay H.
Peterson’s
e-mail address
is: vicargeneral@
diocesegfb.org.
• Articles and photos
are published in the
order received,
upon approval by
Rev. Jay H. Peterson,
editor.
St. Philip Bonitus Church in Scobey will be celebrating
their 100th Anniversary July 11-12, 2015. Bishop Warfel
will speak at the Saturday banquet and preside at Sunday
Mass. Saturday will begin with a Knights of Columbus
Pancake Breakfast. The Parish CCW Pie & Ice Cream
Social is scheduled to be held in the afternoon (both
breakfast and social open to the public). Sunday Mass will
be at 8:30 a.m., followed by a Breakfast Brunch, and the
celebration will end with a cemetery service at 11:00 a.m.
Check our online site at stphilipsbonitus.org. Submitted
by Roz Bowler of the Daniels County Leader (reprinted
with permission).
Lewistown Council 1508
Knights of Columbus
Our Lady of Ransom (Hingham)/Sacred Heart (Inverness)
youth group made pretzels (crossed
arms in prayer) for Lent and to share.
Pryor, St. Charles Epiphany
Celebrating the Feast of the Epiphany at St. Charles Mission
in Pryor are, left to right, Father Randolph Graczyk, Wade
Stone, Zepheniah Monroy, Marlan Goes Ahead, and Miles
Brien. Each classroom was blessed and students received
a treat from the Kings. Submitted by Sister Sharon Smith,
SCL.
Council 1508 Knights of Columbus became the face of
Lewistown’s Second Annual Polar Plunge for Special
Olympics, with last year’s team being featured on the
2015 Polar Plunge posters and flyers. Four brave Knights
raised money from Brother Knights, friends, community
and family members. Knights Zane Fulbright and Neal
Tucek braved the icy waters for the second year in a row,
and were joined this year by Patrick Morris and Chaplain,
Fr. Samuel Spiering. Clad in clerics, the team participated
as Team “Polar Priests,” to the enjoyment of their vocal
supporters. This year’s team raised over $2,000 for local
Special Olympics athletes. Shown in the photo are, left to
right, Zane Fulbright, Patrick Morris, Neal Tucek, and Father
Spiering. Submitted by Zane Fulbright.
Page 18 • The Harvest • March / April 2015 • Diocese of Great Falls-Billings • Established in 1904
BCS Awards of Excellence
BCS Awards of Excellence winners Codie Wahrman, Marlowe Aldrich, Jennifer Herold
Pelatt, Jeremy Stewart and BCS President Harold Olson. Not Pictured: Sara Diedrich.
Father Dave Reichling of St. Bernard
Catholic Church in Billings presents a check
for $615,000 in parish contributions from
the five Billings Catholic parishes to Billings
Catholic Schools for the 2014-15 school year.
Billings Central Catholic High School senior Holden Ryan
sits with two Saint Francis Primary students during a
recent BCCHS/SFP Buddy Mass.
2015 Outstanding
Young Alumna
Billings Central Catholic High School students
in Miranda Schmitt’s freshman religion
class dress as saints on the day they do a
presentation on their assigned saint to the
class. Mrs. Schmitt is a BCCHS alum and a
graduate of Gonzaga University who earned
her master’s degree in theology at Notre
Dame. The students are posing in front of a
mural depicting the Most Blessed Virgin Mary
painted by BCCHS alumni Chance Robinson.
Sara Diedrich, the Billings Catholic Schools 2015
Outstanding Young Alumna, in Mount Rainier National
Park.
The Harvest • March / April 2015 • Diocese of Great Falls-Billings • Established in 1904 • Page 19
Old Palms
St. Jude Thaddeus School student burn old palms to make the ashes for Ash Wednesday.
New Boiler
Catholic Schools Week
Work begins on the installation of a new boiler for the
school.
Bishop Warfel and Father Wathen with the Junior High School students at St. Jude
Thaddeus School in Havre.
Fort Benton, IC Church
Nativity
Poplar, Our Lady of Lourdes Cub
Scout Awards
The children of the Immaculate Conception Church in
Fort Benton held a performance after Mass this past
December. Under the direction of the children’s parents
and grandparents, the children showed off their acting
skills telling the story of the birth of Jesus. The dozen or so
children did an amazing job, including the singing of three
songs. Father Willie D’Souza very was pleased with the
results. The tradition continues.
Recently, two
young members of Our
Lady of Lourdes Parish
were recognized for their
accomplishment in earning
religious emblems through
their local Cub Scout
program.
Curtis Rankin earned
the Parvuli Dei (Children of
God) emblem. The purpose of
this emblem is to help young
boys explore a wide range of
activities in order to discover
the presence of God in their
daily lives as members of
their families and parishes,
and also to develop good,
positive self-image through
the contributions they can make to the group or community. To be eligible you must be a
registered 8-10 year old Cub Scout of Catholic Faith.
Ethan Rankin earned the Light of Christ emblem. The purpose of this emblem is
to help the Cub Scout develop a personal relationship with Jesus. With the parents’ active
assistance and participation in this program, it is hoped that the Cub will come to see Jesus
as a real person and his friend. To be eligible you must be a registered 6-7 year old Cub
Scout of Catholic Faith.
Curtis and Ethan are brothers. Curtis currently serves his parish as altar boy during
Sunday services. Ethan will soon be doing the same. The boys’ parents are Harlan and Paula
Rankin. Shown above is Brother Bede Baldry, Parish Life Coordinator for Our Lady of
Lourdes, along with Curtis and Ethan. Submitted by Val Gorder.
Free Advertising!
Diocese of Great Falls-Billings parishes and
schools receive a free 4 col. inch ad (the size
of this message) in “The Harvest” (subject to
availability of space, first come - first served).
Please send your info for upcoming events to
Father Jay Peterson,
[email protected].
Page 20 • The Harvest • March / April 2015 • Diocese of Great Falls-Billings • Established in 1904
Our Lady of
Lourdes
Chinook 2015
Catholic Schools Week
Our Lady of Lourdes Alumni gather for a photo op at Chinook 2015.
Tristan Zaremski paints a glass for the Chinook
2015 centerpieces.
Student Council officers Lauren Good, Joseph Guter,
Nick Diekhans, and Isaac Armstrong, along with Principal
Sherri Schmitz, lead students, faculty and staff in prayer
at the Catholic Schools Week prayer service held on
January 26, 2015.
Saturday, January 31 of Catholic Schools
Week was our adult fundraising event “Chinook
2015 - Mexican Fiesta”. This event was
originally established in 1994 by our school to
build community with our parish and Catholic
friends while helping to secure the future of
Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic School. While
Chinook is an adult function, our students help
build the excitement creating centerpieces for
our tables, working on projects to be sold at
Chinook, and cheering us on at our Chinook
Assembly where class projects are displayed.
This year’s Chinook activities included
a food drive led by our Eighth Grade Class. OLL
classes were in competition to bring in the most food items for donation to St. Vincent de
Paul. The winning class, Mrs. Winkler’s First Grade won the honor of displaying “Pepe,” the
singing Mexican Chihuahua in their classroom and to break open a piñata filled with candy
and fun items.
Livingston, St. Mary Catholic
Schools Week
Third Graders Alex Young and Andrew Bralick clear their
boards for another round of Bingo.
Catholic Schools Week (January 25 - 31, 2015)
was a time to come together as a Catholic community, and
to strengthen our Catholic Faith. At Our Lady of Lourdes
Catholic School, we celebrated each day with prayer-filled
activities. Every year on the Friday of Catholic Schools
Week, our students, staff, parents and friends gather for
Bingo. It is eagerly anticipated by our students not only
as time away from their classroom, but for fun prizes and
fellowship. A great way to end the school week with our
Lourdes Community!
St. Mary’s Catholic School celebrated Catholic Schools Week from January 25-30, 2015.
One of the service projects we did was to make birthday bags for the local Food Pantry.
The bags consisted of items used to make a birthday party extra special for families which
may not have been able to do so. The 2nd-3rd graders are shown in the picture getting
ready to deliver to the Food Pantry.
The Harvest • March / April 2015 • Diocese of Great Falls-Billings • Established in 1904 • Page 21
Blanketing the community with
love~
Talent Show~
The thirteenth annual HSCS Talent Show featured
many acts including music, dancing, singing, magic and
much more. Our students always entertain their guests with
a variety show full of giggles and fun. This year’s show
even included hula-hoops and karate! Thank you to Mimi
Mathson, Kristine Young and Kyler Baker for organizing
this fun annual event. We thank God for all the gifts He has
given us!
Each year Holy Spirit Catholic School students complete a service project during
Catholic Schools Week. This year we chose to tie blankets to give to the children in the new
Family Promise Program in Great Falls. All the students, from K-8th grade, gathered in the
gym and tied 12 blankets in less than 30 minutes. The students presented the blankets to the
Family Promise Director, Mrs. Sharon Odden, during a school prayer assembly. With this gift
from our school, the kids in the Family Promise Program can wrap up in a blanket made
with loving hands!
Lunch for special friends~
St Vincent de Paul
Great Falls
Holy Spirit Catholic School is home to an amazing lunch program, and we like to
share our good fortune with others. All the priests, deacons and sisters in Great Falls, along
with the Bishop, received an invitation to join us for a special lunch. As we pray for the
vocations, we also honor and thank those special individuals who answered God’s call. Our
middle school Select Choir and Bell Choir entertained our guests as they dined. After lunch,
Father Dick offered our guests a tour through the school. Thanks to Brian and Marilyn for
providing a terrific lunch!
The burning of palms for Ash Wednesday~
Bishop Warfel blesses the gifts prior to the giveaway.
Live Nativity Scene
Once again, Father Dick and Father Dave guided our 8th graders in the burning of
palms from Palm Sunday 2014. We collected palms from the parishioners as well as our
school families and had lots to burn. Father Dick used the ashes at our school Mass and at
the parish Mass. 8th grade students volunteered to help distribute ashes. Now we are ready
to begin our Lenten journey.
Page 22 • The Harvest • March / April 2015 • Diocese of Great Falls-Billings • Established in 1904
2014 Central Graduate
Cheers for Kansas State
Please plan to attend “Celebration 2015”, Great Falls Central’s largest fundraiser.
The event takes place Saturday night, April 18th at the Mansfield Convention Center. Come
and enjoy the evening filled with good food, games, music, and silent and live auctions to
support Great Falls Central. Reserved tables for eight guests are $500 and individual tickets
are $60. Tickets are available by calling Great Falls Central at 406-216-3344 or emailing
[email protected]
Central Students Participate in “March for Life”
Left to right: David Shane, Andrea Morren, Carter Anderson, Annie Shane, Abbie Bliss
Central Alum Shawn Grove with K State Cheerleaders
2014 Central Graduate Shawn Grove (center), who
is attending Kansas State University, is a member of the
Kansas State Wildcat Cheer Squad. He is a member of the
stunt team responsible for lifting the female cheerleaders
and ensuring their safe return to the ground. Shawn
spends a great deal of time in the weight room with other
K-State athletes working on the strength necessary at the
college level. He was a captain on the Central awardwinning cheer squad while in high school as well as a
member of the Mustang football team. Shawn has received
a scholarship to K-State and is majoring in engineering.
Mustang DECA Shines
at State
Mustang DECA
Five Central students, members of Central’s “Mustangs for Life”, made the long trip
to participate in the “March for Life” event in Washington D. C. on January 22, 2015 the
anniversary of the Roe vs Wade Supreme Court decision legalizing abortions in the United
States. This year’s theme was “Every Life is a Gift”. The March for Life began as a small
demonstration and rapidly grew to be the largest Pro-Life event in the world. The peaceful
demonstration that has followed on this somber anniversary every year since 1973 is a
witness to the truth concerning the greatest human rights violation of our time, abortion.
Upon return to Great Falls, members of “Mustangs for Life” made a presentation to invited
guests describing The March and its impact on their lives. Central is very proud of these
young men and women.
Mustang Speech and Debate Team Completes
Very Successful Year
Mustang Speech and
Debate Team
The Mustangs Speech
and Debate team capped
another successful season
finishing 1st in the Class C
Northern Division and 2nd at
State. Placing at Divisionals
were Avery Armstrong 1st in
Humorous Oral Interpretation,
Kassie Procopio 4th Original
Oratory, Arete Caldwell 6th
and Tanner Dodge 5th in
Extemporaneous, Maggie
Klippenes 7th and Allison
Cantley 6th in Spontaneous
Oral Interpretation, Michael
Marler 6th in Impromptu, and Katherine Hezel 2nd in Lincoln/Douglas. Placing at State
were Avery Armstrong 6th Humorous Oral Interpretation and Tanner Dodge 3rdth in
Extemporaneous. Many other members of the team contributed points during the different
rounds of the event. Congratulations to Coach Crystal Hinderliter and the Mustangs!
Fifteen GF Central students competed at the Montana DECA State Conference held in Great Falls
February 8th through the 10th. DECA prepares emerging leaders and entrepreneurs in marketing,
finance, hospitality and management in high schools and colleges around the globe. Seven
students earned the right to compete at the DECA International Career Development Conference
in Orlando, Florida April 24th through the 29th. Central students placing at state were: Joe
Bertha – 1st Automotive Services and 1st Personal Finance Literacy; Devon Sundy and Joe Berth –
2nd Finance Operations Research; Tyler Nicholson – 3rd Business Finance; Allie Phillips ,Kassie
Procopio and Hagan Vincent – 1st in Hospitality and Tourism Operations Research; Allie Phillips
and Kassie Procopio – 4th Fashion Merchandising Promotion Plan; Spencer Nicholson and
Hagan Vincent – 2nd Hospitality and Tourism Team Decision Making; Devon Sundy – 5th Human
Resource Management; Makayla Ochs and Sophie Mindt – 4th International Business Plan; and
Mackenzie Fauque – 4th Principles of Hospitality.
The Harvest • March / April 2015 • Diocese of Great Falls-Billings • Established in 1904 • Page 23
Lambert, St. Theresa New Altar
U Free Advertising!
Diocese of Great Falls-Billings parishes and
schools receive a free 4 col. inch ad (the size
of this message) in “The Harvest” (subject to
availability of space, first come - first served).
Please send your info for upcoming events to
Father Jay Peterson,
[email protected].
To START
or STOP
a Subscription
& for Address Changes
If you’re moving (even snowbirds!)
please contact Laurie Horton, Executive
Secretary, so she can update your new address.
[email protected]
727-6683, ext. 110
1-800-332-9998
“The Harvest”
Publishing Deadlines
advertisers
Monthly issue:
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Sept. & Oct. 2015
Nov. & Dec. 2015
Jan. & Feb. 2015
Deadline:
February 20
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June 20
August 20
October 20
December 20
“The Harvest” is mailed out each month
to over 17,803 households
in the Diocese of Great Falls-Billings.
The Advertising Rate Sheet
is available online at: www.diocesegfb.org,
click the link “The Harvest” newspaper
or contact Laurie Horton by email:
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Send in your photos
and stories to
Rev. Jay Peterson
When submitting photos and articles
for publication in “The Harvest:”
• If sending the information by e-mail please save the
document as an RTF file or copy and paste the story/
caption into the body of the e-mail.
• When sending photos online, please save them as
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Rev. Jay H. Peterson’s e-mail address is:
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• Articles and photos are published in the order
received, upon approval by Rev. Jay H. Peterson,
editor.
Bishop Warfel was at St. Theresa’s Parish in Lambert on February 11, 2015, to celebrate
Mass, to consecrate their new altar and have a listening session after a soup supper. In this
picture, Bishop Warfel anoints the altar with Sacred Chrism as Father Jim O’Neil, looks on
during the Mass. Submitted by Kay Carda.
Great Falls, Corpus Christi Windows
After the merger of St. Luke’s,
St. Joseph’s and Most Blessed
Sacrament, parishioners of the
new Corpus Christi Parish in
Great Falls chose St. Luke’s to
be the common site for worship.
Immediately there were dreams to
bring the stained-glass windows
from St. Joseph’s to the new
worship area. The dream is
finally completed. Dan Dwyer
(pictured here with Father Ryan
Erlenbush, Pastor) led the project
with assistance from Matt Kaul,
and Michael Winters (maker of the
windows with his wife, Barbara).
Page 24 • The Harvest • March / April 2015 • Diocese of Great Falls-Billings • Established in 1904
U Free Advertising!
Diocese of Great Falls-Billings parishes and
schools receive a free 4 col. inch ad (the size
of this message) in “The Harvest” (subject to
availability of space, first come - first served).
Please send your info for upcoming events to
Father Jay Peterson,
[email protected].