tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-79747051431768615662024-03-05T03:20:14.170-08:00A Calling to a Vocation...Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14473342241442672939noreply@blogger.comBlogger14125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7974705143176861566.post-2092931367211636112017-09-07T15:48:00.001-07:002017-09-07T15:48:15.736-07:00MATT MAHER: Music for those Discerning their Vocation<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif, serif, EmojiFont; font-size: 16px;">During the time when one is discerning a vocation to the priesthood, religious life or single consecrated life, the music of MATT MAHER is an inspiration to those during their personal time of prayer and reflection. Thus, I am sharing one of his most popular songs with you. May the pathway to your vocation be a holy and smooth one. </span></div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14473342241442672939noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7974705143176861566.post-54032270327266063392015-12-04T13:12:00.001-08:002015-12-04T13:12:21.174-08:00Padre Junipero Serra, A New Saint for All Seasons<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">On September 26, 2015, Padre
Junipero Serra joined the family of saints in a beautiful family celebration at
the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:city w:st="on">Washington</st1:city>, <st1:state w:st="on">D.C.</st1:state></st1:place> This beautiful event was celebrated by Pope
Francis in a fitting tribute to this holy friar. Much is already known of Padre Serra who was
ordained a priest in 1737 and eventually left his beloved homeland of <st1:country-region w:st="on">Spain</st1:country-region> to serve in <st1:country-region w:st="on">Mexico</st1:country-region>
and <st1:state w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">California</st1:place></st1:state>. He is most known for being the first Pastor
of California and establishing nine of the California Missions.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">There has been some controvesy
of Padre Juniperso Serra being established as a saint in <st1:country-region w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">America</st1:place></st1:country-region> and
thus, there is a need for people to have a greater understanding of this holy
friar and his great love for the people he served. It should be known that many times he was a
strong voice to fight the military leadership of the day on behalf of the
Indigious native people of <st1:state w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">California</st1:place></st1:state>. He was a champion on providing the best ways
for the military to relate to the Indians.
He opposed the manner in which the military treated the Indians and
constantly stood up for them.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">In addition to the
difficulties with the military of his day, Padre Serra with his friars, instructed
the Indigious native people on building missions, farming, harvesting, working
as a community and religion. He wanted
them to be able to live an easier and more productive life and to know Christ
and the great love of God. Padre Serra
had a concern for their physical and spiritural well being. He and his friars guided them in living
peaceful and holy lives. He cared much!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Padre Junipero Serra, now
Saint Junipero Serra, is a perfect saint for all times and seasons in <st1:country-region w:st="on">America</st1:country-region> and especially in <st1:state w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">California</st1:place></st1:state>.
Following in the steps of Saint Francis of <st1:city w:st="on">Assisi</st1:city>,
Padre Serra lived his life as a peacemaker and built the church up through the
many missions in <st1:state w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">California</st1:place></st1:state>. His example of living a life of sacrifice and
the greatest of faith, to bring the people he served in union with a loving,
vibrant and giving God. After years of
many illnesses, a leg that never healed from an insect bite and various
physical aliments, Padre Serra passed away on August 28, 1784 at the San Carlos
Mission in <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Carmel</st1:place></st1:city>. With years of extensive research and
discernment by the Catholic Church he was beautified on September 25,
1988. His status as a saint complete on
September 26, 2015.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">As the wisdom of Padre
Junipero Serra was great in his life, left us reflect on his words which are
timeless:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">“Let us make use of
time. Our steps should be in conformity
with the vocation to which God has called us; let us work out our spiritual
salvation with fear and trembling, and with a burning love and zeal seek for the
salvation of our brethren and neighbors.
And may all the glory be to our great God.”.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Let us also remember to live
these words:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;"> “Always go forward<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;"> Never
turn back!” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Yes, Saint Junipero Serra who
is now a saint for all seasons.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">(Note, if you are considering
a vocation to the priesthood please see <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;"> <a href="http://www.lavocations.org/">www.lavocations.org</a> or <a href="http://www.facebook.com/la.vocations">www.Facebook.com/la.vocations</a> )<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14473342241442672939noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7974705143176861566.post-86169151594609444912015-12-02T07:42:00.001-08:002015-12-02T07:42:40.923-08:00A Calling to a Vocation: A Day in the Life of a Seminarian by Michael Goodwin<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14473342241442672939noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7974705143176861566.post-71546802509890745912015-05-08T11:08:00.001-07:002015-05-08T11:08:31.981-07:00BUILDING BRIDGES BETWEEN COMMUNITIES - Fr. Toribio Gutierrez C.M.<div style="text-align: center;">
BUILDING BRIDGES BETWEEN COMMUNITIES –</div>
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Reflections on Fr. Toribio Gutierrez, C.M.</div>
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In the Archdiocese of Los Angles each year there are some pastors and associate priests that receive new assignments to new parishes. Such was the case for Fr. Toribio Gutierrez in the summer of 2014. From what I have witnessed, Fr. Toribio is truly a “bridge builder” between the English and Spanish speaking communities. Within a few short months he has made substantial progress on bringing together both these communities within the parish of St. Paschal Baylon. Fr. Toribio’s sincere, holy, and happy ways are enhancing both the English and Spanish communities while building a bridge towards greater participation in each others’ Masses, events and cultural experiences.<br />
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Fr. Toribio was originally from Mexico and named by his mother after the brave martyr Fr. Toribio Romo who died for his faith at the age of 27 in 1928. It should be noted that Fr. Toribio Romo is now a saint and considered a hero to millions of Mexican Catholics. Our current day Fr. Toribio, like Fr. Toribio Romo, has endeared himself to the people of his community. Fr. Toribio brings the life of Jesus, his holy works and sacrifice to current times through his homilies, work and humble manner. This modern and holy priest, is a reflection of the happiness he feels in his faith and the priesthood. For English and Spanish speaking alike, his homilies teach, inspire and enlighten all to live a stronger and more joyful faith.<br />
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In just a few short months at the parish of St. Paschal Baylon, Fr. Toribio Gutierrez has shown his support of a number of parish ministries. These include the RCIA program, the Religious Education program that includes English and Spanish speaking teachers, the parish school and the events of the Hispanic community. With dedication and care, week by week his English improves and he is able to give meaningful and inspirational homilies for the English masses. During his first Good Friday at the parish, Fr. Toribio was able participate in the traditional lengthy readings.<br />
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This holy priest continues to build that bridge and bring communities together. Many hope that Fr. Toribio continues as an associate of St. Paschal Baylon for many years to come. This priest wants to see good, happy and Christian values. He inspires both the English and Spanish speaking communities to seek just that, and to make a positive difference in their parish community.<br />
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May he continue to build this great bridge and inspire others as well.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14473342241442672939noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7974705143176861566.post-67823233166709439442014-11-28T12:20:00.001-08:002014-11-28T12:20:31.743-08:00A Vocation Within a Vocation: The Installation of Pastor Reverend Michael Rocha<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">A Vocation Within a Vocation: </span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">The Installation of Pastor Reverend Michael
Rocha<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;"> On the Solemnity of Christ the King, the parish of St.
Paschal Baylon, in the Conejo Valley of Southern California, celebrated the
Installation of their new pastor, Reverend Michael Rocha. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">This Sacred Mass Installation, under the
direction of lead coordinator Confirmation/Youth Ministry Director Robert Batch,
reflected the traditional church celebration. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">This celebration for the Installation of Reverend Rocha, included a full
procession with the Knights of Columbus, choir with trumpet players, homily,
sacramental gifts, the Installation Mass and more. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;">The Very Revered Michael Jennett, who is the Regional
Vicar for the Santa Barbara Pastoral Region, represented Archbishop Jose Gomez
and </span><span style="font-size: 19px;">con-celebrated</span><span style="font-size: 14pt;"> the mass with the parish priests and deacons. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">During the Installation, key parishioners
of various ministries, along with the
assistance of Robert Batch, each presented a sacramental gift to the new pastor,
in the form of sacred oils, a liturgy book and blessed chalice. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">The liturgy and homily of this sacred event
was enhanced with it being graciously presented in both Spanish and English.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;"> As the Installation of a priest to a new parish is a
vocation within a vocation, as a priest, it is a reflection of their continued
service at the “foot of the cross” to serve as Jesus would have served. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">The Installation of a priest as a new pastor,
is a wonderful sacred event for that parish community to solidify their
commitment to their new pastor and for that pastor to solidify his commitment
to his new parish community. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">It is also
a time where all gather to ask for blessings for their new pastor and for the
blessings to be upon the community in which he serves. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;"> With any Installation event with the mass and “Presentation
of Faith and Oath”, it is also a time of prayerful praise. In this time of prayerful praise, the cantor
from Reverend Michael’s former parish, a Mr. Ennio Morricone, presented his
song of “Gabriel’s Oboe”. Mr. Morricone’s
perfect gift of sacred song, as well as many gathered from Reverend Michael’s
former parish, seemed symbolic of the
passing of the torch from one parish to another in a sign of unity and
grace. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;"> The Installation event concluded with the song, “Hail
Redeemer, King Divine”. All gathered for
this event were then invited to a reception in the hall for light refreshments,
faith and fellowship. The reflection of
this day of celebration was complete in the words of Reverend Michael Rocha as
follows:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;"> “I give thanks to almighty God for all those who shared
their gifts and talents during this special Installation Mass. I also give thanks to all of you who have
joined me on this momentous occasion.
Thank you Saint Paschal Baylon Community for your warm welcome to this great parish. Finally, a special word of gratitude to many
family members and friends who have traveled from far and near, to join me on
this day. God bless you all."</span><span style="font-size: 14pt;"> </span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14473342241442672939noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7974705143176861566.post-15580989599386294242014-09-29T14:26:00.001-07:002014-09-29T14:26:45.215-07:00St. John’s Seminary: The Start of their 75th Anniversary Celebration <div class="OutlineElement Ltr SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', Tahoma, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 8px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">
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<span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US">Amid the hills of </span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US">Camarillo</span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US">,</span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US"> are the beautiful and peaceful grounds of</span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US"> </span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US">St. John’s</span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US"> Seminary which</span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US"> now</span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US">,</span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US"> at this </span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US">historical</span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US"> site</span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US">, </span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US">h</span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US">as officially begun the start of their</span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US"> 75</span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 9.5pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX180001470" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: super;">th</span></span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US"> anniversary celebration of events. </span></div>
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<span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US">On Saturday, September 28</span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 9.5pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX180001470" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: super;">th</span></span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US">, the seminary held </span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US">its</span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US"> traditional Alumni Awards Dinner for alumni, benefactors and friends of </span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US">St. John’s</span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US"> Seminary. </span></div>
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<span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US">This event started with Vespers in the chapel</span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US">,</span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US"> where the Cantor lead the </span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US">attendees</span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US"> in song</span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US"> and praise. </span></div>
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<span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US">Archbishop Jose Gomez</span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US">.</span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US"> gave a tribute talk in celebration of the work of the seminary. </span></div>
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<span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US">An elegant reception followed with many priests, bishops, religious sisters and guests enjoying fine wines, excellent </span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US">appetizers</span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US"> and great conversation</span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US">,</span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US"> on</span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US"> a</span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US"> beautiful </span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US">fall</span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US"> evening </span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US">before the dinner.</span><span class="EOP SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"> </span></div>
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<span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US">The dinner to celebrate the start of the 75</span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 9.5pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX180001470" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: super;">th</span></span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US"> Anniversary was held for the first time outside in a movie-like setting with dozens of elegant tables, old-fashioned lights strung above and lighting to highlight the beautiful statue of Holy Mother Mary. </span></div>
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<span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US">In this wonderful setting</span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US">,</span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US"> nearly 400 people were gathered to</span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US"> celebrate and to</span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX180001470" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"> honor Michael M. Clements, Monsignor Helmut A. Hefner, Father Thomas J. </span><span class="SpellingError SCX180001470" style="background-image: url(data:image/gif; background-position: 0% 100%; background-repeat: repeat-x; border-bottom-color: transparent; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 1px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Peacha</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCX180001470" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"> and Bishop Gerald F. Wilkerson. </span></span></div>
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<span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX180001470" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">The new rector</span></span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US">,</span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US"> Reverend Monsignor Marc Trudeau</span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US">,</span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US"> gave an excellent opening celebration talk and each of the honorees thereafter</span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US">,</span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US"> had an opportunity to give their reflection. </span></div>
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<span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US">Seminarians were gracious servers with food placed to all that attended prepared b</span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US">y</span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US"> the</span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US"> gifted 5-Star Chef Alex. One</span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US"> could sense the joy and pride that all had in participa</span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US">ting in the first major event in celebration such a fine</span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US"> anniversary.</span><span class="EOP SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"> </span></div>
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<span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US">It should be noted that this seminary has for 75 years provided the education, formation and </span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US">nurturing</span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX180001470" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"> of the men most of whom have been ordained to the priesthood. </span></span></div>
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<span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX180001470" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Father Thomas J. </span><span class="SpellingError SCX180001470" style="background-image: url(data:image/gif; background-position: 0% 100%; background-repeat: repeat-x; border-bottom-color: transparent; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 1px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Peacha</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCX180001470" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"> who has been a priest for almost six decades said, “In 1953, I entered </span></span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US">St. John’s</span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US"> Seminary in </span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US">Camarillo</span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US">. </span></div>
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<span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US">There I took my place among a fine group of young men who were also on the road to the priesthood.” </span></div>
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<span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US">This seminary for decades has been the main source for many holy vocations to the prie</span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US">sthood, religious and </span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US">laypersons</span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US">,</span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US"> who by their completed education enhanced their ministries in their parish communities</span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US">.</span><span class="EOP SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"> </span></div>
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<span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US">In addition, in the last 50 years the seminary has opened it doors to women from laypersons to religious sisters</span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US">, for</span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US"> </span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US">completion </span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US">of theology</span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US"> and pastoral studies. </span></div>
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<span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US">These </span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US">women,</span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US"> who have expanded their curriculum through the seminary</span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US">,</span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US"> have</span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US"> greatly</span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US"> enhanced their vocation either to religious life</span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US">,</span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US"> or their ministries</span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US">,</span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US"> within their own parish. </span></div>
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<span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US">It is </span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US">truly </span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US">exceptional that women have</span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US"> had</span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US"> the opportunity</span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US"> for many years now to have a higher</span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US"> education through such an exceptional </span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US">seminary.</span><span class="EOP SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"> </span></div>
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<span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US">With the Alumni dinner event, Monsignor Marc Trudeau encouraged the attendees to participate in the campaign in honor of the 75</span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 9.5pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX180001470" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: super;">th</span></span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US"> anniversary to financially assist in the dorm renovations project. </span></div>
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<span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US">In greater detail from the</span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US"> Alumni</span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US"> tribute book, there is an ongoing campaign called, “75 x 75 x 3 – The Campaign for </span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US">St. John’s</span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US"> Seminary’s 75</span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 9.5pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX180001470" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: super;">th</span></span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US"> Anniversary”. </span></div>
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<span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US">This is an opportunity for one to pledge an amount of either $75, $750, $7,500, $75,000 or $750,000 over a three year period. Funds from this campaign will greatly benefit the much needed renovations of the dorms that started in 2013</span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US"> as well as ongoing financial support to meet the needs </span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US">of the seminary</span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US">. </span></div>
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<span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US">Those who wish to be a part and give their pledge can go to the website of </span><a class="Hyperlink SCX180001470" href="http://www.stjohns75th.com/" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none;"><span class="TextRun Underlined SCX180001470" style="color: blue; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: underline;" xml:lang="EN-US"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX180001470" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">www.stjohns75th.com</span></span></a><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US"> or contact the Advancement Office at (805) 389-2035.</span><span class="EOP SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"> </span></div>
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<span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US">With the celebration of the 75</span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 9.5pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX180001470" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: super;">th</span></span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX180001470" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"> Anniversary of St. John’s Seminary now officially begun, there will be ongoing events in this year and the next. </span></span></div>
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<span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX180001470" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="Paragraph SCX180001470" paraeid="{63bc4522-f98f-4e97-ad0f-6eced5534239}{43}" paraid="2053418561" style="color: windowtext; font-size: 6pt; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX180001470" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">There will be special Masses, forums, “Wine & Wisdom” tours to the wine country and another Alumni Dinner Awards celebration in 2015. </span></span></div>
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<span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX180001470" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="Paragraph SCX180001470" paraeid="{63bc4522-f98f-4e97-ad0f-6eced5534239}{43}" paraid="2053418561" style="color: windowtext; font-size: 6pt; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX180001470" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">More information on these and other events can be found by </span><span class="SpellingError SCX180001470" style="background-image: url(data:image/gif; background-position: 0% 100%; background-repeat: repeat-x; border-bottom-color: transparent; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 1px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">visting</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCX180001470" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"> their Facebook page at facebook.com/</span><span class="SpellingError SCX180001470" style="background-image: url(data:image/gif; background-position: 0% 100%; background-repeat: repeat-x; border-bottom-color: transparent; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 1px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">stjohnseminarycalifornia</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCX180001470" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">. </span></span></div>
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<span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX180001470" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">In addition, to all the upcoming celebrations and those making donations, it would be exceptional for all t</span></span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US">o pray for </span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US">the seminarians in formation</span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US">, the staff, professors, priests</span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US"> and the holy work of the seminary. </span></div>
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<span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US">Let the 75</span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 9.5pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX180001470" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: super;">th</span></span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US"> anniversary celebrations be a time for great reflection, prayer, thanksgiving and joy! </span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US">Congratulations</span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US"> to </span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US">St. John’s</span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US"> Seminary</span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US"> and God’s continued blessings on the next 75 years</span><span class="TextRun SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-US">!</span><span class="EOP SCX180001470" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"> </span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14473342241442672939noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7974705143176861566.post-9443246265313289962014-07-18T07:59:00.000-07:002014-07-18T08:03:00.816-07:00More Young Men Choosing Priesthood (Article reposted from Office for Vocations - Archdiocese Los Angeles)<span style="background-color: white; color: #444444; font-family: Calibri;">Reader please note: As more young men are finding their holy vocation to the priesthood, this article provides inspiring insight for those men who are discerning a vocation. Please pray for men in your community who are considering their holy call.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Calibri;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Calibri;"><a href="http://dfw.cbslocal.com/video?autoStart=true&topVideoCatNo=default&clipId=8881970">Click this to watch accompanying video </a><br /></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><strong style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">FORT WORTH (CBS 11) -</strong><span style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"> No sex, no money, and complete obedience. Not what you think the average 20-year-old guy would go for. But according to the Catholic Church, the number of men joining the priesthood is up.</span><br style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"></span><br style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"></span><span style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">In the Diocese of Fort Worth alone, the number of seminarians has nearly doubled in the last 10 years.</span><br style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"></span><br style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"></span><span style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">And who is joining might surprise you.</span><br style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"></span><br style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"></span><span style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">Brett Metzler bench presses 250 pounds, squats 305, and can shoot hoops with the best of them.</span><br style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"></span><br style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"></span><span style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">But the former high school Athlete of the Year is not your typical college student.</span><br style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"></span><br style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"></span><span style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">20-year-old Brett believes becoming a priest is a better fit.</span><br style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"></span><br style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"></span><span style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">The Denton County native is preparing for the priesthood at Saint Joseph’s Seminary College in Covington, Louisiana–1200 acres of woods, water, and worship north of New Orleans.</span><br style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"></span><br style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"></span><span style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">He says his calling came during his freshman year at Texas A & M.</span><br style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"></span><br style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"></span><span style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">“Everything that everybody was telling me to do that was supposed to fulfill me, it just wasn’t working,” explained Metzler. “I was living in a house with four of my best friends from high school. I mean it was a blast. We’d throw the frisbee and play football every day. I just felt a feeling kind of like unfulfillment every night when I was going to sleep.”</span><br style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"></span><br style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"></span><span style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">He says it was the book, Fulfillment of All Desire, about the saints and their paths toward holiness that confirmed he must give his life to God.</span><br style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"></span><br style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"></span><span style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">“I was just reading it and crying, reading it and crying. Guys, at least me, I didn’t cry a lot. Stuff that she and other saints would say in talking about their love for God, you can’t read poems that beautiful. It really stirred my heart.”</span><br style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"></span><br style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"></span><span style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">Today Brett and 100 other Roman Catholic seminarians begin and end their day with prayer. They eat, attend classes, even hang out in their on-campus sports bar — all the while developing four Benedictine pillars of the priesthood: the human, spiritual, intellectual and pastoral.</span><br style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"></span><br style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"></span><span style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">Father Gregory Boquet, the school rector, says it’s the human pillar at St. Joseph’s that’s changing the face of the future priesthood, drawing young men who may have never felt they fit in before.</span><br style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"></span><br style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"></span><span style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">“The priesthood has stress involved with it,” said Boquet. “And if you don’t take care of yourself physically as a young man, you’re not setting yourself up for a very good foundation to build if you want to progress into the priesthood.”</span><br style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"></span><br style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"></span><span style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">Boquet, a Benedictine monk, first came to St. Josephs 30 years ago. He built an extensive weight room, has a fitness expert come once a week to the school, and has each seminarian’s physical fitness evaluated once a year.</span><br style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"></span><br style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"></span><span style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">Boquet, who happens to be legally blind, says the *church* is no longer blind either. Strict psychological evaluations are required to enter the seminary.</span><br style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"></span><br style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"></span><span style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">“If it looks like this man lacks some maturity and psychosexual development or in his ability to relate to other people, they’re not accepted into the seminary,” Boquet continued. “A good seminarian attract other good seminarians.”</span><br style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"></span><br style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"></span><span style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">The end result?</span><br style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"></span><br style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"></span><span style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">“Many of the guys who come here are so relieved. They want to be a priest and they see guys just like them! They’re normal. They’re regular guys who can really inspire people.”</span><br style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"></span><br style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"></span><span style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">Still, to commit to a life of celibacy, poverty, and service…especially at such a young age?</span><br style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"></span><br style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"></span><span style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">We asked Brett Meltzler if he has doubted wanting to become a priest.</span><br style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"></span><br style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"></span><span style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">“There’s a month when I was really excited to become a priest. And then just normal guy stuff kicks in. I mean you want to get a girlfriend. You’re in college and there’s thousands of beautiful woman everywhere. I mean you want to get a girlfriend, you want to get married. I thought I was going to have hundreds of kids for my family to play with when I got older. But the more you pray about it, the more time you spend in silence, the more God kind of reinforces that call.”</span><br style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"></span><br style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"></span><span style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">So unless he hears otherwise– Brett says he’ll continue to listen for God’s voice and guidance.</span><br style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"></span><br style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"></span><span style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">“It takes some discipline to sit down and listen to God, even if it starts with 5 minutes a day,” Brett added. “God can work with that.”</span><br style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"></span><br style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"></span><span style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">Silence he seeks in the woods of St. Joseph’s seminary, as he prepares to shepard his own flock one day toward an eternity of peace.</span><br style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"></span><br style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"></span><span style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">“I think that’s why so many people come into the seminary and so many of the youth is starting to go to church now. Because they’re realizing that fulfillment and happiness isn’t found in what the culture is telling them it’s found in.”</span><br style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"></span><br style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"></span><span style="color: #5a5a5a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">Becoming a priest requires an 8-year discernment process. At St. Joseph’s Seminary College, 75% of all seminarians graduate and go on to become priests. <br /><br />- See more at: <br /><a href="http://www.lavocations.org/more-young-men-choosing-priesthood.html#sthash.ab72gpEl.dpuf">http://www.lavocations.org/more-young-men-choosing-priesthood.html#sthash.ab72gpEl.dpuf</a></span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #444444; font-family: Calibri;"><br /></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14473342241442672939noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7974705143176861566.post-66178638260826115392014-06-11T10:52:00.002-07:002014-06-11T10:52:29.255-07:00Today’s Seminarians: Following the Right Path to the Priesthood<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbD7IcFJT7xFV2_oSM27zZN9sEln6aZ4Luk9eZAkytDP9j7O6XCqa0U1MkX4iZhiN-aZ_OBzH-J7_Wc5lgNJECGQ-nkrc0rusciWKbMvIqnvadG6E_WkKIr82A5LxVgG3r6VZ8j4JEQ9lV/s1600/1958116.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbD7IcFJT7xFV2_oSM27zZN9sEln6aZ4Luk9eZAkytDP9j7O6XCqa0U1MkX4iZhiN-aZ_OBzH-J7_Wc5lgNJECGQ-nkrc0rusciWKbMvIqnvadG6E_WkKIr82A5LxVgG3r6VZ8j4JEQ9lV/s1600/1958116.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Today’s Seminarians: Following the Right Path to the Priesthood<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">With the consistent increase
of men entering the seminary, we find that today’s seminarians are following
the right path of the priesthood. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">These
are now men in many cases that have advanced degrees and established sound careers
who give all that up in a calling to their vocation to the priesthood. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">They are the constant success story of young
men who faithfully follow the right path of studies, prayer and formation, to
become good and holy priests. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">These men
have a long journey on this path as the process can take six to eight years
before they are ordained. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Yet, they know this is the right path.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">During their studies and
their formation, is also consent discernment. In this process, these men seek to listen to God. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Seminarian Bret Meltzler stated, “It takes
some discipline to sit down and listen to God, event if it starts 5 minutes a
day. </span><span style="font-size: 14pt;">God can work with that.”</span><span style="font-size: 14pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 14pt;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Thus,
today’s seminarians believe that God is working with them on their path. They seek God in much of what they do. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">These men of God will be formed in the
intellectual and doctrinal tradition of the Catholic Church, and they will be
men of great prayer who embrace the service to the Church and their community
as new priests.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">It was in The Tidings that
Archbishop Jose H. Gomez reflected on the priesthood as follows, “The
priesthood is a gift and a mystery in God’s plan for the salvation of the
world. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Every priest receives a special
calling from God. This calling is an invitation
to a great adventure of self-surrender and service to God’s plan.” </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">On reflecting on his words, today’s
seminarians hear this holy call and bravely enter their journey on the holy
path to the priesthood and all that is expected of them. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;">In an age of self-promotion through the
Social Networks, Blogs, Tweets, etc., they find for themselves a better and
more self-fulling path of self-surrender to God’s plan.</span><span style="font-size: 14pt;"> </span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Today’s seminarians will find
that it is not always an easy path towards the priesthood, but it is a
sacramental path that will bring so much to their lives and the lives of others. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Newly ordained Fr. John Adrian Palmer states
on becoming a priest, “As a priest, I hope to share in Jesus’s mission by
helping people to know and experience God’s merciful love so that they, in
turn, can help others to know and experience His love, and ‘so that they may
all be one’ (John 17:21) with the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">In the years to come, may
many other good men find this holy path to the priesthood and shine the bright
light of Christ so needed in today’s world! </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">For further reference see <a href="http://www.lavocations.org/">www.lavocations.org</a> or <a href="http://www.facebook.com/la.vocations">www.Facebook.com/la.vocations</a>.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14473342241442672939noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7974705143176861566.post-34395558525746078282014-06-09T22:40:00.001-07:002014-06-09T22:40:41.135-07:00Dominican Sisters Attract Young Women to Life of ServicePlease click on the link to view the video:<br />
<br /><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VnOOlmqG3Eg">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VnOOlmqG3Eg</a><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15.555556297302246px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15.555556297302246px;">**(Please also see website </span><a href="http://www.imaginesisters.org/" style="background-color: white; color: #0068cf; cursor: pointer; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15.555556297302246px; line-height: 22.720001220703125px;" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: small; line-height: normal;"><b style="line-height: 22.720001220703125px;">www.imaginesisters.org</b></span></a><span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15.555556297302246px;"><b style="line-height: 22.720001220703125px;"> </b></span><span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15.555556297302246px;">)**.</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14473342241442672939noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7974705143176861566.post-37214196203622610572014-05-05T23:01:00.002-07:002014-05-05T23:03:01.128-07:00The Characteristics of Today’s Holy Archdiocesan Priests <div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJnp1GB44zCMk9Jp_6jDZdKvnrs7TOjO2bebymhRcCWNls0cvZ5WDgCg6Ss_iB0a5gW-Ro4ug1RBLX9wYx8IqXLJAkdvS73ZnNukSW7dV8WNwBc66T4bqriLal1Dmwcl6fySPNko8Haz7E/s1600/3427697_orig.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJnp1GB44zCMk9Jp_6jDZdKvnrs7TOjO2bebymhRcCWNls0cvZ5WDgCg6Ss_iB0a5gW-Ro4ug1RBLX9wYx8IqXLJAkdvS73ZnNukSW7dV8WNwBc66T4bqriLal1Dmwcl6fySPNko8Haz7E/s1600/3427697_orig.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt;">In
this day, the journey to the priesthood is a long one and the characteristics
required for the formation to ordain a seminarian to the priesthood are numerous. Yet, it needs to be so, in having good and
holy priests for a lifetime of service. With
this article, I wanted to reflect on what most Archdioceses of today are
requiring for the formation of their seminarians. In the “Profile of a Candiate for the Priesthood
to the Archdiocese of Los Angeles” (See *) as mentioned in the Parish Vocation
Director’s Manual originally created by the Vocations Office, under the
direction of Monsignor Jim Forsen, it is mentioned these vital characteristics
as follows:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt;"> “1. An
ecclesial spirituality that includes a deep love and commitment to the
Eucharist, to the Sacramental life of the Church, to the Scriptures, and to the
Liturgy of the Hours; as well as a personal spirituality that includes a
commitment to private prayer, balance devotionalism, and personal spiritual
growth.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-size: 16.0pt;">2.<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 16.0pt;">A fundamental
knowledge and understanding of the teaching of the Catholic Church, and a faith
commitment to those teaching in their entirely.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-size: 16.0pt;">3.<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 16.0pt;">Commitment to the
Magisterium of the Church as contained in official Church documents, with a
special emphasis upon the spirit and teachings of the Second Vatican Council
and subsequent implementing documents; commitment to follow the leadership of
the Archbishop as the authentic Teacher within the Archdiocese. The candidate must understand and accept the
extraordinary teaching of our Holy Father in Pastores Dabo Vobis.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-size: 16.0pt;">4.<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 16.0pt;">Strong moral
character and an evident commitment to integrity, honesty, and personal and
social justice.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-size: 16.0pt;">5.<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 16.0pt;">A genuine desire
to serve others over the pursuit and satisfaction of one’s personal interests,
with a strong commitment to an appropriately simple life-style and willingness
to serve the poor and to accept assignment to less affluent parishes.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-size: 16.0pt;">6.<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 16.0pt;">Physical, mental
and emotional health, as evidenced by the absence of inhibiting disabilities
and potentially serious medical conditions; a balanced approach to work, prayer
and leisure; appropriate expression of emotions; good stress management skills
and freedom from addictions; where pertinent, five years of sobriety and
continuing successful involvement in recovery program.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-size: 16.0pt;">7.<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 16.0pt;">Age appropriate
psycho-sexual maturity.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-size: 16.0pt;">8.<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 16.0pt;">Commitment to and
ability to live a life of celibacy according to the call of Christ, including
celibate living for two years prior to entering the seminary and throughout the
entire period of formation. Pursuing the
virtue of chastity enhances overall priestly holiness.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-size: 16.0pt;">9.<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 16.0pt;">Proven academic
ability to complete graduate theological studies, etc.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-size: 16.0pt;">10.<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 16.0pt;">Willingness to
coorperate with the vision and mission of the <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Universal</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">Church</st1:placetype></st1:place>,
the Archdiocese, the Archbishop, and appropriate Archdiocese officals and
leaders.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-size: 16.0pt;">11.<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 16.0pt;">Good
interpersonal skills for sustaining relationships and fulfilling the duties and
responsibilities of ministry, including evidence of sound peer relationships.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-size: 16.0pt;">12.<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 16.0pt;">Pastoral
sensitivity demonstrated by genuine care and compassion for others, a clear
sense of prudence, as well as an aptitude for acquiring pastoral skills.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-size: 16.0pt;">13.<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 16.0pt;">Ability to work
collaboratively with laymen, laywomen, women religious, permanent Deacons,
other priests, and the Regional Bishops.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-size: 16.0pt;">14.<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 16.0pt;">Demonstrable
leadership skills and the ability to show initiative in pastoral and personal
situations, together with the desire to inculcate sound liturgical presiding
skills – to serve as a leader of prayer.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-size: 16.0pt;">15.<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 16.0pt;">Ability to
minister in two or more pastoral languages, with Spanish the most often needed.
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-size: 16.0pt;">16.<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 16.0pt;">Appropriate
appreciation and respect for diversity and multiculturalism, especially as
these factors present themselves in the religious traditions of the various
ethnic groups.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-size: 16.0pt;">17.<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 16.0pt;">Requisite
communication skills.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
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<br /></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 16.0pt;">* It should be noted that all the “characteristics”
mentioned in this article are ones that are consistant with the “issues of
human, spiritual, intellectual, and pastoral formation” that had been set
clearly to incorporate during the lifetime of Pope John Paul II (now Saint) in
his noted 1992 Post-Synodal Apostolic Exhoration, Pastores Dabo Vogis, articles
43-59, and as described in The Program for Priestly Formation. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 16.0pt;">As
one can see, there are many key characteristics that are needed for the
formation of a seminarian to the priesthood.
It is a time when any Archdiocese is prudent in having seminarians that
reflect these characteristics for holy and well qualified priests that bring greater
compassion, holiness, communication and strength for a lifetime of service.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 16.0pt;">If
you would like to find out more about the <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Los
Angeles</st1:place></st1:city> vocations program or to contact the Vocations
Office, please see <a href="http://www.lavocations.org/">www.lavocations.org</a>. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14473342241442672939noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7974705143176861566.post-73894514308266927212014-02-14T11:04:00.002-08:002014-02-14T11:23:17.910-08:00OLD MISSION ARCHES Article<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: 18.0pt;">OLD <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">MISSION</st1:place></st1:city> ARCHES SYMBOLIC OF TODAY’S
SEMINARIANS<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: 18.0pt;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: 18.0pt;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3Wxiqvt8tWalahdIT8tUcmPWo1ag2BfmWQowPNvILk59rkce5bYsuWEJu3xj1PBbp8I4cKImiYHHao9QXwQMnH84Fw0RL915V8qLYTOF-ZKn8ol95gnSsDt-RHYGp43Dw04llxZEepeEL/s1600/P1020294.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3Wxiqvt8tWalahdIT8tUcmPWo1ag2BfmWQowPNvILk59rkce5bYsuWEJu3xj1PBbp8I4cKImiYHHao9QXwQMnH84Fw0RL915V8qLYTOF-ZKn8ol95gnSsDt-RHYGp43Dw04llxZEepeEL/s1600/P1020294.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">The
beautiful old mission arches, built long ago, into the design of the 24
California Missions, are so symbolic of today’s seminarians. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 19px;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font-size: 14pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;">These simple arches standing together that
support and strengthen each individual mission, seem to reflect today’s
seminarians standing together to support each other’s vocation to the holy
priesthood. </span><span style="font-size: 14pt;"> </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 19px;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"></span><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">These old mission arches,
initially built under the direction of a peaceful Franciscan Friar, Padre
Junipero Serra, seem symbolic of today’s seminarians working peacefully through
the completion of their formation program during a time when we have a Pope
taking the Franciscan name of “Francis”.</span><span style="font-size: 14pt;"> </span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: 14pt;">
<o:p></o:p></span>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;">The
old mission arches stand strong, just as today’s seminarians stand strong in
their commitment to their vocation.</span><span style="font-size: 14pt;"> </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 19px;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"></span><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">Like
an old mission arch always secure and tall, a seminarian who realizes that this
is truly God’s call for him, remains strong and tall in his commitment to be
ordained a future priest.</span><span style="font-size: 14pt;"> </span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: 14pt;">
</span>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br /></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: 14pt;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;">These young
men being strong in their commitment to completing in excellence work through
their lengthy formation program, living a life of chastity, showing charity
towards others and being quiet men of prayer.</span><span style="font-size: 14pt;"> </span></div>
</span><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"></span><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">They have a great love of church, respect for leadership and passion to
learn how to be exceptional holly priests.</span><span style="font-size: 14pt;"> </span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: 14pt;">
</span>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br /></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: 14pt;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;">Like an old mission arch that stands strong through heavy rains, winds
and strong sun, a seminarian stands strong through the long hours of formation
studies, the challenges great and small, as well as the needed field work to
prepare for the priesthood.</span></div>
<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">The
old mission arches are the same as all the other arches supporting the roof and
so to are all the seminarians the same in supporting their seminary and the
Universal Catholic Church. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">A young man
who selects his seminary for his vocation program and later receives admission
to that seminary, remains steadfast, supportive and committed to the Masses,
prayers, teachings, spiritual guidance, field work and formation traditions
provided by that individual seminary. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">A
seminary that is Archdiocesan would be different in their formation program
than that of a Franciscan or Dominican seminary. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Yet, in their differences, much is the same,
and each seminarian shows their support by obedience and commitment to what the
program consists of. It is thus the best
of times for young men to consider the priesthood.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">The
old mission arches are beautiful to me; since I know that each arch was build
by hand with much care, and much time, brick by brick. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;">The outer layer of plaster composite was then
applied over these bricks with the final perfect shade of paint to complete
each arch.</span><span style="font-size: 14pt;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">So too, a seminary who will
be a priest, is built over much time, with much care, to their studies and spiritual
growth. Their outer layer reflecting
their full completion are the white vestments on their Ordination Day. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">That perfect shade of paint is then given
through the Holy Spirit, and these new priests are then ready to stand together
for a lifetime of service, like those old arches in the <st1:state w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">California</st1:place></st1:state> sun.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Leslie
Lenko<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Vocations
Promoter<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14473342241442672939noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7974705143176861566.post-71432920786195344492014-01-25T15:01:00.000-08:002014-02-14T11:23:41.120-08:00STOLE AND CHALICE Article<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: 18.0pt;">PROMOTING HOMEGROWN VOCATIONS THROUGH
THE STOLE & CHALICE PROGRAM</span></b><br />
<span style="font-size: 14pt; text-align: justify;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; text-align: justify;">Throughout
the Archdiocese of Southern California, many parishes are working on new and
innovative ways, to promote vocations to the priesthood and religious
life. </span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">The <b>Stole & Chalice Program, </b>was initially brought forth from the
Vocations Office of Los Angeles, under the direction of Monsignor Jim
Forsen. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;">This program provides the
opportunity for a parish family to receive a liturgical stole, chalice and
prayer folder, during the Mass, to present to a family to have in their home for one to two weeks. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;">The family would then display the stole and
chalice and as a family unit pray together for priests, seminarians and new
vocations to the priesthood.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;">The prayer
binder provided would contain prayers and materials to enhance their week-long
commitment.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;">T</span><span style="font-size: 14pt;">he primary objective, is
directed towards promoting needed vocations to the priesthood and to inspire
homegrown vocations within the family. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;">It also serves to bring attention to the need of prayer for vocations
and quiet reflection on those going through the formation process for the
priesthood.</span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Each
<st1:place w:st="on">Southern California</st1:place> parish that participates
in the <b>Stole & Chalice Program
determines </b>how extensive the program will be. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">A number of parishes have the
program once a week, which requires a fair amount of coordination to obtain
family volunteers, schedule advanced mass participation, etc. </span></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;">Typically, just one family per week receives
the stole, chalice and prayer binder, from the priest during </span><st1:state style="font-size: 14pt;" w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Mass.</st1:place></st1:state><span style="font-size: 14pt;">
The priest may give a brief talk on vocations, have a special vocations
prayer and/or provide a family blessing. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 19px;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"></span><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">After the completed time with the program, the family then returns the items to the parish
office one week later so the Vocations Director or Promoter will have them available for the next family. </span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: 14pt;">
</span>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"></span><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">It is entirely up to the Vocations Director,
or promoter, to coordinate with the family and the celebrating priest for that
week so everything runs smoothly.</span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: 14pt;">
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">There
are many benefits and graces for a family trying to foster a vocation by participating in the <b>Stole & Chalice Program</b>.
</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">With my work with this program as a promoter, it was noted that a
participating family was fostering more than one vocation. Their son, an Altar Server,
was presented with the Chalice. That family now has a son, who is clearly discerning
a vocation to the priesthood as a result of the <b>Stole & Chalice Program</b> as well as another child. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Many families have found the program inspiring
and beneficial in their ministry as parents to promote a homegrown vocation, as
well as a wonderful way to bring them
together in prayer. </span></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;"></span><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">I have noted many
families who have found it to be a positive, enriching program. </span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">
</span>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">I am a believer that all holy vocations start
with the prayer of the family or parish community.</span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;">The
</span><b style="font-size: 14pt;">Stole & Chalice Program</b><span style="font-size: 14pt;"> is an
excellent way to promote homegrown vocations.
It offers quality family time for prayers, a Rosary, viewing a vocations
DVD, Vocation prayer cards, list of Sacred Websites and much more. Some families
create their individual sacramental moments such as when they write their personal
prayer, place it in the chalice, and then pray over it together as a
family. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 19px;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"></span><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">One mother, during one summer, participated
for three weeks and had the stole in plain sight. That family is now fostering two vocations to
the priesthood. </span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: 14pt;">
</span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;">The power and grace of
having a sacramental stole and chalice displayed in the family home is amazing
and inspiring for teenagers. </span></div>
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">
</span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;">More
important, families are brought together in quality prayer for prayer and
reflection.</span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">The
education and holy experience of families participating in the <b>Stole & Chalice Program</b> continues
to be a great benefit in fostering homegrown vocations throughout many <st1:place w:st="on">Southern California</st1:place> parishes. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">This simple program reminds families that “Yes!"
“We need more vocations to the priesthood," “We need prayers for our priests,"
“We need prayer for our
seminarians.” </span><span style="font-size: 14pt;">“We need young women to
consider religious life." It is a
program that any parish in </span><st1:country-region style="font-size: 14pt;" w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">America</st1:place></st1:country-region><span style="font-size: 14pt;">
can incorporate into their vocations promotion program. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;">It simply takes a good coordinator the
schedule and provide the stole, chalice and detailed prayer binder with
materials. </span></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;">It is a perfect program for
the Season of Advent or Lent. </span><span style="font-size: 14pt;">Please
consider it within your parish community.</span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 14pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 14pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 14pt;"> </span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">All
vocations start with pray. </span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">- Leslie
Lenko<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14473342241442672939noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7974705143176861566.post-86166315849591694512014-01-17T13:31:00.002-08:002014-01-17T13:31:54.764-08:00FOLLOW ME: Journeys to Priesthood Please watch this youtube video if you are discerning a vocation to the Priesthood:<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ApEPnW0oRfE">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ApEPnW0oRfE</a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14473342241442672939noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7974705143176861566.post-76623554639542194202014-01-17T13:16:00.001-08:002014-01-17T13:16:37.865-08:00All Holy Vocations Start With PrayerAll holy vocations start with prayer. It is a time of great discernment to realize there is a potential call from God for your vocation.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14473342241442672939noreply@blogger.com0