Volume 11 • Issue 12 December 2011www.sacredheart-church.org

Matterof theHeartA Christian Community Building Households of Faith

NONPROFIT

U.S. POSTAGEPAID

COLUMBIA, MOPERMIT NO 224

SACRED HEART CHURCH1115 LOCUST STREET

COLUMBIA, MO 65201

RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED

Dec. 6 Communal Reconciliation (Tuesday), 7 p.m.

Dec. 8 Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception (Thursday)Vigil Mass Wednesday, Dec. 7, 6 p.m.

Mass on the Holy Day, Thursday, Dec. 8, 5:15 p.m.

Dec. 12 Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe (Monday)Mañanitas, 5:15 a.m.Mass in Spanish, 6 a.m.

Mass in English, 5:15 p.m.

Dec. 20 Posadas, Activity Building, 6 p.m. (Tuesday)

Dec. 24 Christmas Eve (Saturday)

Lessons and Carols, 4:40 p.m.Mass in English, 5 p.m.Lessons and Carols, 9:30 p.m.

Late Mass in English, 10 p.m.

Dec. 25 Christmas Day (Sunday)

Mass in English, 8:30 a.m.Mass in Spanish, 1 p.m.

2011 Advent - Christmas Schedule

It’s not too late to purchase your tickets for a

chance at this beautiful quilt, handmade byladies of the parish. It is the grand prize in the

2011 Christmas Bazaar raffle. The lucky winnerwill be drawn Sunday morning, Dec. 11, 2011.

Drawings also will be made for $500, $320, and

$100 cash prizes. Tickets are available at the

parish office.

Roamin’ Catholics visit O’FallonBy Mary Kay Head

It was a beautiful fall day in November when a groupof Sacred Heart parishioners gathered to board a busthat would take them to O’Fallon, MO. This began thesecond adventure of the group known as the “Roamin’Catholics.” Though the tram ride in October wasthoroughly enjoyed, the weather in November provedto be less windy and slightly warmer, adding to thespirit of the group.

The bus came equipped with screens, allowingmovies to be shown during the ride. Heading east onecould view the Vatican, seeing areas and events notopen to public attendance. This proved to be merelybackground to the many voices as the riders visited andenjoyed the trip.

Arriving at O’Fallon, the driver headed north to thetrip destination, the Motherhouse of the Sisters of theMost Precious Blood. This is the home of SacredHeart’s beloved sister Sisters, Sr. Agnes Schlereth andSr. Isabelle Schlereth.

Upon entering the convent, the group was joined byothers who drove themselves to the location, and allgathered and were led to a large room where thereunion took place. As the Sisters entered, they werewarmly greeted and received hugs from all. Afterspending over 20 years in service to the Sacred Heartparish, Sr. Agnes was delighted to see so many familiar Continued on page 4

A portrait of the Roamin’ Catholics with Sisters Agnes and Isabelle.

faces. And though her time in Columbia was shorter, Sr.Isabelle was also happy to greet us. These ladies lefttheir mark on the parish and will not soon be forgotten.

Sr. Agnes began her tenure under then pastor Fr.John Long. She started offering pastoral care to the

elderly, visiting many homes and uniting those whocould no longer physically join the congregation. Herrole evolved to Social Concerns and her mark therewill live on. Under her tutelage the annual Sacred Heart

Heart of the Matter • December 2011 • Page 2

Birthdays

OLL Interparish School News

Heart of the Matter

Sacred Heart Parish, Columbia, MO

Pastor: Fr. Thomas Saucier, O.P.

Associate Pastor: Fr. Simon Felix Michalski, O.P.

Associate Pastor: Fr. Patrick Tobin, O.P.

Editor: Mary Kay Head

Layout: Richard Clawson

Send comments to: HeartNewsLine@aol.com

or 1115 Locust St., Columbia, MO 65201

Articles in Heart of the Matter that address Church teachings or articles of faith

are expressions of the author’s opinion unless specifically noted otherwise.

Dec. 1 Mary Loftus, Bud Smith, Sheila ThomeczekDec. 2 Jeanne Bequette, Michael Bietsch, Ruth Gillum, Kevin Lorenz, Brad

McCracken, Jennifer MooreDec. 3 Christopher Bobryk, Virginia ThomasDec. 4 Andrew Kittle, Clara Grace Linhares, Nicole SineckiDec. 5 Eugenia Anyanwu, Don Branch, Crispin CandiaDec. 6 Kenneth KovarikDec. 7 Jeanine Benac, Hannah Grewach, Lauren McGuire, Shawn Naugle, Katie

Sutter, Heriberto Uribe, Angel Vazquez

Dec. 8 Antonio ReaDec. 9 Braden Bartlett, John Bequette, Brian James, Diego Lopez, Mario Perez,

Johnette Seibel, Leocadia WickeDec. 10 William Burkett, Michael Garner, Barbara Kingsley, Marianna VazquezDec. 12 Katherine Bietsch, Anna Mae Clawson, Joe Evola, Charlotte Smarr, Kate-

Anne Vitt-BuntinDec. 13 Stephen Dullard, Marvin Malveaux, Sadie Sarrazin, Michael Schuster,

William StephensDec. 14 Lowell Arnold, Aiden Bertrand, Norma McCulley, Phillip Moritz, Lucia

SantanaDec. 15 Christina Frymire, Calyn Gakinya, Ian McDonald, Maria Paugh, Sonia

Potts, Kyle Pudenz

Dec. 16 Madonna Ferris, Brian Neuner, Ryan RichardsonDec. 17 Ogechi Anyanwu, Michael Peplow, Sarah SchappeDec. 18 Curtis Bourgeois, Joseph Camille, Donna Haley, Mary Beth Steckel,

David WagnerDec. 19 Michael Musket, Cole Riney, Jon Sarrazin, Nat ScavoneDec. 20 Taylor Heath, Brooklyn Kinney, Andrew Miller, Jeanus PratteDec. 21 Dorothy Mountjoy, Elizabeth Quetsch, John TaylorDec. 22 Magdalena Franco Orozco, Charles GoochDec. 23 John Crane, Andrea Hoehn, Tess PickettDec. 24 Randy Blue, Kimberly Mason, Theresa MusketDec. 25 Jan Jeffries

Dec. 26 Robert Doyen, Mark ThomasDec. 27 Jennifer Borisenko, Robin Cadwell, Fabio Chaddad, Alice HokeDec. 28 Audrey Green, Glenda Kelly, Kelly Richardson, Mel SmarrDec. 29 Katherine Keevins, Kathryn Miller, Jacob Moore, Caroline NeunerDec. 30 Joseph Bindbeutel, Ronel Ghidey, Andrew Jayamanne, Dennis Mueller,

Aileen SchwartzDec. 31 Julie Kalaitzandonakes, Nicholas WhitworthJan. 1 Gustavo Garcia, Brian HornbeckJan. 2 Benjamin Nordhues, Kate Ashley Wells, Alexandro Arzate, Kelsey

Bequette, Missy Crane, William Devoy, Axel Gutierrez, CatherineJohnston, Paula Naugle, Bill Rodeman, Tammy Scott

Jan. 3 Nicole Hoffman, Janet Pack, Elena Sapp

Jan. 4 Shannon Bobryk, John Crouch, Irma De la Paz, Patricia Quint, AnupamRadhakrish, Mark Tinsley

Jan. 5 Bridget Bartlett Reginald Cocroft, Helen Gittemeier, Robert Green,Alixis Gutierrez, Carol Nacarato

Jan. 6 Gerardo Arzate, Joseph Jolley, John Reiss, David SteinmetzJan. 7 Connie Armentrout, Tiffany Borst, Olivia Canavan, Dan Johanningmeier,

Maren Merk, Jaime StrangeJan. 8 Brendan Fish, Linnet Garcia, Jennifer KilgoreJan. 9 Mike Inlow, Paul Kanago, Larry Longwell, Margaret St. OmerJan. 10 Lawrence Blanchard, Cade LuetkemeyerJan. 11 Mary Lock, Martin Lopez, Cesarine Mabengo, Corrie TinsleyJan. 13 Patricia Andrews, John Cheetham, Olivia Grosenbacher, Steven

Grosenbacher, Jean Haislip, Kenneth MountjoyJan. 14 Catherine Mayhan, Laura PratteJan. 15 Jennifer Green; Glenda Kappelmann; Ruby Lopez; Eduvey Lopez; Fortino

Mendez, Jr.; Debra RiffleJan. 16 Katie Glaubitz, Joseph Litwiller, Ruth McCormack, Riley William

TinsleyJan. 17 Eugene Arens, Patricia King, Brett Moore, Rosalba Rea, Maria

Rodriguez-AvalaJan. 18 Daniel NickolausJan. 19 Chelsea Bertrand, Arthur Gloe, Briseyda Jimenez, Patricia Kelley, James

Paugh, Tammy Reeder, Jennifer Ruprecht

Jan. 20 Abigail Brightwell, Benjamin Gakinya, Annorah Harris, Lacy PriesmeyerJan. 21 Richard Loftus, Timothy Pingelton, Helene TatumJan. 22 Eddie Carlos, Robert Harper, Bailey Holland, Helen McGonigle, Angel

Mendez, Marydeth PriesmeyerJan. 23 Abner Brown, Matthew Quetsch

Jan. 24 Deanna Cotter, Charlene Jayamanne, Daniel O’Hearn, Allen Ronnebaum,Garry Teeple

Jan. 25 Gregory Aker, Darren Bertrand, Marsela Lopez, Christine McCartneyJan. 26 Jon Bequette, Jeffrey Johanningmeier, Ethan PottsJan. 27 Ivan Morris, Della Ortbals, Juan Pedroza, Marco ReaJan. 28 Robert Cotter, Joseph Doles, Juan Garcia, Samantha Kanago, Megan

Reiss, Jacob SprouseJan. 29 Marcella Frazier, Robert Gerau, Richard King, Leticia Lopez, Aidyn

Schulte, Alexander von Schoenborn, Nichole White

Jan. 30 Frank Claeys, Chris Drury, Ellis Graham, Davis, Graham, Alice SueSinele, Samuel Spell, Grace Spell

Jan. 31 Ellen Cocroft, Stazi Prost

By Raelene HeadThe biggest news at school recently

was the electrical problem. The kidsmissed school for five days due to an

electrical short. Luckily, it was caughtbefore even more damage occurred. Sothe kids all received a surprise breakwhile the damage was fixed and thesmoke/electrical odors were removed. Iwill let you know how days will be madeup that went over the built in “snowdays” as soon as I know.

A lot has been going on besides theelectrical excitement. The Home andSchool Association hosted a businesstrade show for businesses that help

support the school. The businesses setup booths and families were invited outto visit and even do some early Christ-mas shopping.

The eighth grade participated in theirfirst community service project of theyear. They have an “Adopt a Spot” alongBernadette Dr. The students had a reallygreat turnout and had the road cleanedup in no time. They have three moredates coming up throughout the year fortrash pickup.

The second grade First Reconcilia-tion was Thursday, Nov. 10. They arewell on the way with their sacramentalpreparation this year. Before you knowit they will be making their FirstCommunion in the spring.

Flu shots for the K-fifth grade havebeen rescheduled. All parents shouldhave received a school reach with thenew date listed. If there are any ques-

tions, please contact the school office.Upcoming activities

Dec. 1 Interims go homeDec. 1, 6, 7 Health screeningsDec. 8 Feast of the Immaculate

Conception, classes insession

Dec. 10 Band carolingDec. 11 Christmas Program, grades K-

two, 2 p.m., Our Lady ofLourdes Church

Dec. 12-13 Review for first semesterfinals, grades six-eight

Dec. 14-20 First semester finals, gradessix-eight

Dec. 14 Faculty meeting, 2 p.m.dismissal – Tiger’s Denavailable

Dec. 16 Christmas Program, gradesthree-five, Flanagan Hall

Dec. 19 Christmas Band Concert, 7

p.m., Flanagan HallDec. 20 End of second quarterDec. 21 Christmas parties, 10:30-11:30

a.m.; 11:30 a.m. dismissal –no Tiger’s Den; facultyChristmas

Dec. 22-31 Christmas vacationJan. 2 Faculty in-service, no classesJan. 3 Classes resumeJan. 4 Report cards go homeJan. 5 Home and School meeting, 7

p.m., Flanagan HallJan. 11 Faculty meeting, 2 p.m.

dismissal – Tiger’s Denavailable

Jan. 16 Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, noclasses

Heart of the Matter • December 2011 • Page 3

Knights of Columbus Council 14414

Ounce of Prevention

Paul Oligschlaeger, Field Agent

573-680-9800

Life Insurance • Long Term Care •

Retirement Products

Knights of Columbus

INSURANCE

YOUR SHIELD FOR LIFE

Knights of Columbus

Council 14414

Handyman Ministry

If you need help with projects around the home or in theyard, call Rick Clawson at (573) 491-3399 or email

rickglenda@hughes.net.

Payment for the service is not required, but donations areaccepted by the council and are used to support the parish.

Eternal Rest

Dorothea Frech began her eternal lifeMonday, Nov. 14, 2011. She was bornAug. 26, 1914, in New Orleans, LA, toPercy H. and Johannah Wanner. Shegraduated from Maryville College in St.Louis. She married William M. (Bill)Frech Feb. 21, 1938.

Dorothea and Bill were well-knownand active members of the community,

raising their four sons on their BooneCounty farm. Dorothea was involved inColumbia Garden Club, RepublicanWomen, Sacred Heart Catholic Church,and the Adult Literacy Program. And shewas a Pink Lady at Boone Hospital Center.

She is survived by three sons: Andrew

and Kathy Frech of Bristol, IN; Williamand Sandy Frech of North Haledon, NJ;and David and Linda Frech of Columbia;and daughter-in-law Betty Frech ofColumbia; 12 grandchildren; and 17great-grandchildren. In addition to herhusband, she was preceded in death byher son Louis Frech and her grand-daughter Martha Frech Berry.

Dorothea’s life was celebrated at afuneral Mass at Sacred Heart CatholicChurch in Columbia at 10 a.m. Tuesday,Nov. 22. She was then laid to rest inMemorial Park Cemetery. May she nowenjoy eternal peace and happiness inGod’s presence.

Dorothea Wanner Frech

By BJ Rodeman

Ho-Ho-Ho-hum.Holiday seasons are more stressful

for many of us just because of the addedplanning and coordinating for activities,shopping, and all of the surroundingemotions. But, if you are personallybeing adversely affected by the down-turn in U.S. economics or if you have

recently lost a loved one, this holidayseason may loom as a greater challengefor you. Stressful events are a part oflife and can’t be avoided. Cortisol (the“high anxiety hormone”) release is aphysical reaction to the stress we feel,and can cause high heart rates, highblood pressure, overeating, and diabe-tes. Finding ways to block or reduce thiscortisol release will keep you healthierand happier at this time.

When stress is at its peak, it’s hard tostop and regroup. Try to prevent reactingto stress in an unhealthy manner in thefirst place by planning now, especiallyif you know you are vulnerable.1. Acknowledge your feelings. If

someone close to you has recentlydied or you can’t be with loved ones,realize that it’s normal to feelsadness and grief. It’s okay to taketime to cry or express your feelings.You can’t force yourself to be happy

just because it’s the holiday season.2. Reach out. If you feel lonely or

isolated, seek out community,church, or other social events. Theycan offer support and companionship.Volunteering your time to help othersalso is a good way to lift your spiritsand broaden your friendships.

3. Be realistic. The holidays don’t haveto be perfect or just like last year. Asfamilies change and grow, traditionsand rituals often change as well.

Choose a few to hold on to, and beopen to creating new ones. Forexample, if your adult children can’tcome to your house, find new waysto celebrate together, such as sharingpictures, emails, or videos.

4. Set aside differences. Try to acceptfamily members and friends as theyare, even if they don’t live up to all ofyour expectations. Set aside griev-ances until a more appropriate time

for discussion. And be understandingif others get upset or distressed whensomething goes awry. Chances are

they’re feeling the effects of holidaystress and depression, too.

5. Stick to a budget. Before you go giftand food shopping, decide how much

money you can afford to spend. Thenstick to your budget. Don’t try to buyhappiness with an avalanche of gifts.Try these alternatives: Donate to acharity in someone’s name, givehomemade gifts, or start a family giftexchange.

6. Plan ahead. Set aside specific daysfor shopping, baking, visiting friends,and other activities. Plan your menusand then make your shopping list.That’ll help prevent last-minute

scrambling to buy forgotten ingredi-ents. And make sure to line up helpfor party prep and cleanup.

7. Learn to say no. Saying yes when youshould say no can leave you feelingresentful and overwhelmed. Friendsand colleagues will understand if youcan’t participate in every project oractivity. If it’s not possible to say nowhen your boss asks you to workovertime, try to remove something

else from your agenda to make up forthe lost time.

8. Don’t abandon healthy habits. Don’tlet the holidays become a free-for-all. Overindulgence only adds to yourstress and guilt. Have a healthy snackbefore holiday parties so that youdon’t go overboard on sweets,cheese, or drinks. Continue to getplenty of sleep and, especially,physical activity.

9. Take a breather, say a prayer. Make

some time for yourself. Spendingjust 15 minutes alone, withoutdistractions, may refresh you enoughto handle everything you need to do.Take a walk at night and stargaze.Listen to soothing music. Pray to ourSavior to help you through your hardtimes and lay your problems at Hisfeet.

10. Seek professional help if you needit. Despite your best efforts, you mayfind yourself feeling persistently sad

or anxious, plagued by physicalcomplaints, unable to sleep, irritableand hopeless, and unable to faceroutine chores. If these feelings lastfor a while, talk to your doctor or amental health professional.– Mayo Clinic website, Nov. 16.

Tips for preventing holiday stress

and depression

The Sacred Heart Knights of Colum-bus Council #14414 held our monthlysocial meeting Nov. 2 at the Gathering

Space. We grilled brats and shared ameal while watching Episode Two –“The Teachings of Jesus” – of theCatholicism series. We held ourbusiness meeting Nov. 16 in theGathering Space.

Members of our council helpedButch Johnson renovate the flower andherb beds around the church Saturday,Nov. 19, and helped set up the ActivityBuilding for the annual Bazaar Wednes-day, Nov. 30. The Handyman Ministry

helped a parishioner with yard work.For information or to join Council

14414, contact Chris Drury (864-5351;

cgdrury@gmail.com) or Steve Sutter(474-6227; steves2868@gmail.com ).

Coming UpDec. 4 and 11 Sell Christmas Cards

between the morningMasses

Dec. 7 Social meeting, 6:30 p.m.,Broadway Brewery

Dec. 16 Business meeting: Rosary,6:40 p.m.; meeting, 7 p.m.;Gathering Space

Jan. 4 Business meeting: Rosary,6:40 p.m.; meeting, 7 p.m.;Gathering Space

Jan. 14 Chili Cook-offJan. 18 Social meeting, 6:30 p.m.

(location TBD)

“Thanks are the highest form of thought.Gratitude is happiness doubled by wonder.”

--G. K. Chesterton, A Short History of England

Heart of the Matter • December 2011 • Page 4

Bazaar became the largest money-making project inthe parish. The Wednesday evening Lenten Mass andSoup Supper began with her. Sacred Heart grew toawareness of the need to reach out in many directionsas a result of Sr. Agnes’ competent leadership. Perhapswhat the parish is most grateful for was her ability toinvolve others. How many times did one hear the

phrase, “You just can’t say ‘no’ to Sister Agnes”?Through her ability to empower others to take the lead,the many projects she so competently oversaw havecontinued after her departure.

Upon her “retirement,” Sr. Isabelle came to Colum-bia to live with her sister, Agnes, and she proved to beone of the most active retirees in the community. Overthe years she assisted with the RCIA program, tookCommunion to those in area hospitals, and worked

Roamin’ CatholicsContinued from page 1

endlessly on Bazaar projects, to name just a few of heractivities. It certainly didn’t take long for her to endearherself to the hearts of those of the community.

Sacred Heart was certainly blessed by the presence ofthese two very special ladies.

Sr. Agnes shared some entertaining stories of herearly days at the convent. One could almost picture herleaping the wall that surrounded the cemetery in aneffort to retrieve a ball. This particular feat would havegone undetected by her superiors except for thepastor, who duly noted the event and reported her un-lady-like jump. After a very enjoyable visit with theSisters, during which many pictures were taken, allheaded to the cafeteria where they enjoyed a deliciouslunch. Following this both Sisters Agnes and Isabelle

were tired and needed to return to their rooms.A tour of the convent followed, allowing the group

to appreciate the beautiful chapel, admire the murals,pictures, and examples of the many talents exhibitedby the Sisters who make up the Order of the Most

Precious Blood. The group then returned to the bus tobegin the journey home, while “That’s Entertainment”filled the screens as the miles passed. Snacks andbeverages were shared, along with interesting conver-sations. All in all, the second outing of the Roamin’Catholics proved to be a very heartwarming adventure.

Roamin’ Catholics adventures are open to all andthe committee is headed by Ron and Colleen Meyer.The next event will be a group gathering at the MizzouArena Dec. 18 to attend a men’s basketball game. Ifyou would like to be part of this, contact Colleen orRon at colleenmarie72@yahoo.com or

ron.meyer9@yahoo.com, or Deacon John Weaver atjweaver@sacredheart-church.org.

Dee Chapman greets Sr. Agnes as others await their turn.

Sue Taylor talks with Sr. Agnes while Sr. Isabelle shares a hug with

Barry Shushinsky.

Sr. Agnes visits with Alicia Bixby and Sr. Isabelle visits with Pat

Gerke, while Shirley Corwin looks on.

(Right) Pat Gerke With

Srs. Agnes and

Isabelle.

Heart of the Matter • December 2011 • Page 5

The happy group gathered outside their excursion bus, ready to head home.

Roamin’ Catholics (cont.)

By Julie Stansfield, M.D.The holidays are on their way and they are full of

tempting food. However, it isn’t at all tempting tooffer advice at Christmas time. This is partly becauseno one wants a “food Nazi” to come to their parties.

Now and then I nag my sister (just for fun), but shedoesn’t take my advice even at Thanksgiving. Thereality is that those of us that make our living talkingabout bad habits actually like eating, too. Moreimportantly, when you come from a family of greatcooks there is no reason to discourage the cook,especially if she is called Grandma.

At Thanksgiving we will have turkey, roast, eggrolls, stuffing, jello salad (the real measure of a goodcook), six different kinds of dessert, and more. Thenwe move on to the next house and another good cook.

It has taken me years to lose 20 pounds and I can put it

back on in a week. So even though I will be careful, mynag setting will be off.

These are tips the experts recommend:1. Don’t arrive ravenous. Have an apple or carrot

before you arrive so you are less likely to overeat.2. Leave some space on your plate. The goal should

not be to pile as much food on the plate as it willhold. You can always go back for another taste afterthe first plate of food.

3. You don’t have to eat everything in one day. If thereis something you really don’t care for, skip it. Ifyou stop being hungry, stop eating. Tomorrow is agood day to start eating a balanced meal, but theholidays are a time to enjoy rare food and company.Leftovers are something I look forward to, espe-cially after cooking for days.

4. Be careful of calorie dense food. Butter is nice, but

Holiday diet tips

Please patronize

our advertizers.

They help make

Heart of the Matter

possible.

there is a huge difference in calories from a 1/2teaspoon compared to a tablespoon. Alcohol is fullof calories – more than one glass can explode yourcalorie count. Juice and sweetened soda are liquid candy.

5. Vegetables are free food. As long as they are notcovered in dressing and cream, you can eat as muchas you want of them.

6. Slow down. Put the fork down between bites. Don’tpile the food onto each fork-ful. Enjoy the smell,sight, texture, and taste of the food.My Mom will serve family favorites – two kinds of

jello salad, if I’m lucky. She will work until she is

exhausted and it will be great. Someone else will dothe dishes. If the weather cooperates, we’ll go for ashort walk and burn up some those calories. The “foodNazi” will be off duty.

Merry Christmas and Happy Thanksgiving!

Sacred Heart has religious education needs

Heart of the Matter • December 2011 • Page 6

A Bible challenge: Reading the Bible with the

Liturgical Cycle

Rev. Thomas Saucier, O.P.Sacred Heart Pastor

Rev. Simon Felix Michalski, O.P.Sacred Heart Assoc. Pastor

Any faith community is composed of three parts:worship of God, social interaction, and catecheticalinstruction. It is the catechetical element which Iwould like to reflect upon with you today. Religiouseducation of a parish is one of the primary means by

which the Church continues the mission of Jesus.While Jesus preached on the mountain sides and by the

seashore, today that catechesisis accomplished in classrooms,

whether at Our Lady ofLourdes Inter-Parish School or

in the rooms of our Gathering Space for PSR children.

We have the space (a beautiful one at that) and we havean adequate number of catechists. I want to thankDeacon John Weaver and Joanne Rotert, Chair of theFaith Formation Commission, for their efforts to keepthe PSR program up and running. Deacon Johndeserves much of the credit for the success of thisprogram and the parish owes him a debt of gratitude.

Religious Education is not only a project for the

youth of a parish. The entire parish from cradle tograve should be engaged in ongoing formation. Thecatechesis to be an active Christian never stops. Wewill never learn all we need to know to be goodCatholic Christians. Times change and the theological

questions we ask as adults are not the same as thequestions we asked as children. The questions we askdo change over a lifetime and the catechesis shouldreflect those questions.

I have not observed any current programs whichaddress the catechetical needs of our junior high orhigh school age parishioners at Sacred Heart. I believethat this is another area where collaboration betweenSacred Heart and St. Thomas More Newman Centercould be cost effective for both parishes. NewmanCenter has a very popular Edge program for sixth,seventh, and eighth graders. Other than paying a small

fee to cover food and supplies, and possibly providinga meal for the participants, nothing more would beasked of the parent. While Sacred Heart does collabo-rate with St. Thomas More Newman Center in the HighSchool Confirmation Program, I have not seen muchparticipation from Sacred Heart students in the LifeTeen program for ninth, 10th, 11th, and 12th graders. Ibelieve that this is one of the best and strongest

programs that Newman Center has and I would encour-age parents of teenagers in this age group to considerparticipation.

Because I do believe that catechetical instruction isimportant at every age level and fundamental to the life

of a parish, I suggest that the parish should considerrestoring the position of full time Director of Reli-gious Education for catechesis from kindergarten tosenior adult. Because of the pastoral, sacramental, andadministrative responsibilities of Fr. Simon and myself, it is impossible for the parish priests to fill thisrole. Deacon John Weaver and Deacon Bill Caubetalso have other pastoral responsibilities which make itimpossible for them to devote adequate attention tothe scope of a program which covers such an extensivespectrum of ages. The better solution is a full timedirector. This is a position I believe we must fill. This

will require a financial commitment from the parish,but a parish is more than buildings and liturgy. To-gether we must work to provide resources and pro-grams which address the catechetical needs of allparishioners.

Next month I would like to address the socialcomponent.

Have a Blessed Christmas and Happy New Year!

For many years I struggled with reading the SacredScriptures. I struggled in the sense of what to read, inwhat order, and how to get something out of my studytime. There of course are many ways to go about this.There are many guides out there that can help us studythe Scriptures in a systematic way. There are readingplans, study Bibles, commentaries, and spiritual guidesas well. Finding one’s way through this maze ofoptions for Scripture reading – and finding a systemthat works for you – can take more than a little time. It

also can be frustrating. I finally

resolved the issue by deciding tofollow what the Church does

every year. It is the Church’s idea that one billionpeople are studying and praying the same Scripturesevery year. What a beautiful thought and powerfulprayer time.

The Church reads the Bible in cycles. There is acycle for the daily readings, which is named Year Oneand Year Two. These cycles correspond to the year. Forexample, in an odd year we will read year one. In aneven year we will read year two. In 2012, we will bereading year two. (In addition, the liturgical seasonswill have their own particular readings.) If one followsthe cycle, you just read along with the Church. It canbe followed by using the Bishop’s website: http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/, or from otherpublications such as “Living with Christ” and “Living

Faith” (which is available in the back of Church), orthe “Magnificat,” which is a Dominican publication ofour Eastern Province.

The Sunday reading cycle is divided into a three-year cycle. Year A is the Gospel of Matthew, Year B isthe Gospels of Mark and John, and Year C is theGospel of Luke. (The Gospel of John also is readduring some seasons.) Notice that year A, B, and C,follow the order of the Gospels – Matthew, Mark, andLuke – with John added to year B due to the brevity ofMark, which has 16 chapters.

Here are some ideas for Scripture Study in 2012:Looking ahead to 2012, we will be reading Mark

and John in Ordinary time. For the most part we willbe reading from Mark on Sundays in Ordinary Time,though in some of the Ordinary Time Sundays we willbe reading John. It is a good idea to pick up a commen-tary on Mark or John this year and to follow along.Alternatively, one may want read just the commentarystraight through. I can recommend a couple differentcommentaries. The Navarre Bible Commentary Seriesis a spiritual and doctrinal Catholic commentary that Iuse frequently. I also recommend the Ignatius CatholicCommentaries and Collegeville Commentaries. (All ofthese available by individual book of the Bible.)

Some may prefer a Study Bible. I can recommend“The Catholic Youth Bible” and the “New AmericanBible, with footnotes”; either of these is excellent forincreasing one’s knowledge of the Scriptures. Justfollow along with the Church year.

Other New Testament books from which we will bereading this year are 1 Corinthians, 2 Corinthians,Ephesians, James, and Hebrews. Just read them in thisorder with a commentary or study Bible.

From the Old Testament, in Ordinary Time, we willbe reading from 1 Samuel, Jonah, Job, Leviticus,

Isaiah, Hosea, Deuteronomy, Genesis, Ezekiel,Wisdom, Amos, Jeremiah, 2 Kings, Exodus, 1 Kings,Proverbs, Numbers, and Daniel. Again you could pick

up a commentary, or study about the book, or even justread the book.

Another idea for Bible study is to use the readings

from the Easter Vigil. They are a wonderful expositionof God’s plan for Salvation History: This year readGenesis, Exodus, Isaiah, Baruch, Ezekiel, Romans, andMark.

Other Bible Study Reading Plans:Another idea would be to read the historical books

of the Bible to get the big picture: Genesis, Exodus,Joshua, Judges, 1 & 2 Samuel, 1 & 2 Kings, 1 & 2Chronicles, Nehemiah, Esther, 1 & 2 Maccabees,Jeremiah, Lamentations, the Gospel of Luke, and theBook of Acts. These will trace revelation from thecreation through the birth and explosion of the Church.

Just read them in this order.Or one could read the Prophets. There are four

major prophetic books: Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, andDaniel. And there are 12 minor prophets: Baruch,Hosea, Joel, Amos, Obadiah, Jonah, Micah, Nahum,Habakkuk, Zephaniah, Haggai, Zechariah, and Malachi– read one per month. Get to know the historicalcircumstances of each book. This will help you toknow how God thinks.

Or one could read the Proverbs. There are 31, onefor each day of the month.

Finally, one could read the letters of S t. Paul (13),the other Epistles (8), the book of Acts, or the book ofRevelation, with a commentary or study bible.

My brothers and sisters in Christ, I challenge you –and myself – to read, study, and pray with at least onebook of Scripture this year. Get to know one book andpray with the Scriptures therein. It will help you togrow in grace and truth. It will help you to love andknow the Word.

Just pick one and get started.

Imagine what would happen . . .

Heart of the Matter • December 2011 • Page 7

Be open to the value and potential of change

Deacon Bill Caubet

Deacon John Weaver

Most of us are familiar with the axiom “grow or

die.” We hear it voiced in sports. We hear it in busi-ness. We even hear it parish life. Just a few weeks ago,even our own pastor, Fr. Thomas Saucier, O.P., chal-lenged us to be more than “maintainers” of our parish

facilities and community;warning that to do otherwise

would endanger Sacred Heart’sfuture. When any effort, whatever the type or motiva-tion, stagnates or becomes complacent, or when thedesire or willingness to change seems almost non-existent, that lacking is far too often a precursor ofdifficulties ahead. Endeavors that choose not to develop,improve, or change in other forward-moving waysestablish a very real limit upon their future potential.

This “adapt or fail” wisdom is valid for us asChristian disciples, too. In the good yet candid news ofthe Gospel, Jesus reminds us that unless the grain ofwheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains just a

grain of wheat. But if there is openness to transforma-tion, the potential exists for that simple grain of wheatto mature into much greater value. Jesus cautionsabout the need for proper environment, too; about thefutility of using brittle, non-pliable skin to contain newwine. Expanding demands soon tear a fragile container.

To successfully contain, preserve, and protect, Jesusteaches that the container must be both properly

prepared and capable of the change required whenadapting to the new demands and expectations.

Yet change or transformation and the preparationthey require are uncomfortable. There is a certainsecurity in things that remain constant. To recognizethat we must continue to “grow or die,” to “adapt orfail” in all our relationships, but particularly in ourrelationship with God and the community with whomwe worship, is a real challenge in a life already toofilled with demands and sacrifices. We acknowledgeour worship life needs to be and is an on-going effort,but it is also a journey which demands preparation,

support, and, at times, even guidance.We have prepared for the upcoming liturgical

changes associated with the Third Edition of theRoman Missal for many, many months. We havelistened to the motivation, explanations, and defini-tions. We have practiced the words; we have attempted

some of the music. Not all that we heard or tried wereimmediately our new favorites. Most of us have askedourselves at least once during our preparation, “Whatwas wrong with the old way?” Such sentiment isunderstandable. This is change of the type that isdifficult for most non-liturgists and non-theologiansto appreciate.

Yet the wisdom of Sacred Scripture forms us torecognize a willingness to try the new – the differentmoves us closer to our ultimate goal of eternal life. Itis no accident the bishops chose to begin theseliturgical changes as the season of Advent begins. The

very nature of Advent is an openness to change thatbrings great new promise. The entire Church in theUnited States has been blessed with this opportunityfor a new view and understanding of the SacredLiturgy, as well as its meaning and importance in ourlives. Now is a time to deepen, nurture, and celebratethe living tradition of our faith, if we but open our-selves to the value and potential of change.

Each Sunday at Mass I look around quietly duringCommunion, and I am struck by a most heartbreakingthought: “I don’t think we even know what we have

here. I don’t think we realizeWho we have here.”

I think it was St. Thomaswho said that natural food first

changes into the one who eats it and then restores hisstrength and vitality, but spiritual food changes the

person who eats it into himself. He argued that theeffect of receiving Holy Communion is to change usinto Christ.

It’s truly awesome to think that when we receiveCommunion, we receive the true Body of Jesus in thebread we eat and true Blood in the wine we drink. It isvery difficult for our very human and finite minds tounderstand this extraordinary mystery.

On a perfect Sunday we would gather with joy andgratitude to worship and sing and pray and praise Jesuswith our whole hearts, our minds focused only onHim. We would absorb the Scriptures we hear and the

teaching given to us by the priest or deacon before theclimax of the liturgy when we stand up and approachthe altar to consume our heavenly meal. And as weapproached, we would fall down on our faces, unableto stand, because we know whom we are about toreceive and the knowledge is too great for us. Wewould be overwhelmed by His love for us.

Right? Shouldn’t it be that way? Shouldn’t we strivefor that experience?

But it isn’t like that at most Masses. It seems more

like a line of folks at a cafeteria-style restaurant thanfaithful souls approaching their Lord for divinenourishment. People are chatting with the personbehind them; staring blankly at the floor or the wall;

smiling or waving at someone a few rows away;shuffling along as though going nowhere special. Andmaybe worst of all, people casually receiving the Lordand then walking right out the door – leaving withoutstopping even a moment to pray or show reverence andgratitude.

The Eucharist is the single most important distinc-tion between Catholics and many other Christians.What we proclaim about this Sacrament – and aboutthe holy priesthood – is very different than what manyother Christians believe. We profess that we receivethe true Body and Blood of Jesus Christ when we

receive Communion.It is an overwhelming truth. So overwhelming, I

think, that our minds alone are not be able to process itand come up with an understanding. Only our heartsand spirits can accept this reality, and from the look ofthings, it seems we have a hard time getting in touchwith our hearts and spirits.

It’s a tragic symptom of our human nature that wefail to recognize what we see all the time. Somethingprofound has become ordinary. Something profound has

become so familiar we barely give it a second thought.We have it all, and it doesn’t impress us anymore.

I know that we all come with our own burdens andproblems and hassles weighing on our minds. It isn’teasy to set all that aside and give our full concentra-tion to the Mass. But those burdens and problems andhassles are precisely the reason Jesus wants to feedus. Jesus is waiting, wanting, eager to give Himself tous, hoping we will truly see Him and receive Him. He

gives Himself to us in a way we can touch and taste.We bring into our bodies the food that will strengthenus in our daily struggles. But we are weak and afraid,or lazy and indifferent, or self-absorbed and hard-hearted, so we do not find Him. He does notstrengthen us. He does not change us.

We desperately need the Holy Spirit to enter ourhearts with a renewed conviction of our most sacredbeliefs. Perhaps we need to exercise some self-discipline, gain control of our wandering minds duringMass, and train our hearts to “tune in.” We must come

with faith, however small, and really look at the Lord weare being fed. If we are faithful to do that, I have no doubtthat God will meet us and take us the rest of the way tounderstanding in our spirits what our minds may findinconceivable. He will sustain us in body, mind, and soul.

Can you imagine what would happen then?

“The very nature of Advent is an openness to

change that brings great new promise.”

“We profess that we receive the true Body and

Blood of Jesus Christ when we receive

Communion.”

Heart of the Matter • December 2011 • Page 8

Our Lady of Guadalupe: Patroness of the Americas

Ellyn ForbesDirector of Liturgy and Music

My introduction to Our Lady of Guadalupe wassitting at a candle-lit dinner table in rural centralMissouri. The dining room was festively decorated andthe table was filled with bowls of Mexican potato soupand casseroles of spicy enchiladas. We held hands as

we prayed. It was a table full of

second and third generationimmigrants: Irish, German,

English, French, and one Spaniard (my husband – whowas very far removed from his Spanish roots). Wewere quite a mixed group but, beyond the social aspectof the gathering, we were united to honor our BlessedMother and to try to recreate the adoration my parentshad experienced on their visit to Mexico City. Theyrecounted the reverence they witnessed as people walkedon their knees to the basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe.

Now I must fast forward a few years. I am in LongBeach, CA, and preparing to walk into St. Matthew’s

for Christmas choir rehearsal. I’ve only been in theparish a short time and am surprised that the parkinglot is full. The feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe is thenext day, but I hadn’t given that much thought. I wasovercome by the sight that met my eyes. People werestreaming in and out of the church. I had never seen somany roses and flowers in one place in my life. Theside altar where the image of Our Lady stood wasalmost not visible. The flowers tumbled out into thebody of the church, filling up the aisles and pushing

into the pews. Candles were interspersed randomly,creating a beautiful, soft glow. But the faces of thepeople bringing the flowers were the most memorable.I was witnessing that same reverence, love, and awe myparents had experienced so many years ago in Mexico.

It is a truly heart-fulfilling event to witness suchdevotion to the Blessed Mother. To be reminded of thehumility and childlike trust of Juan Diego whoseimmediate response to the Virgin’s request was, “MyLady, I go to fulfill thy command. I bid thee farewell, Ithy humble servant.”

We will have the opportunity right here at SacredHeart to have this experience first hand. Our Hispanic

congregation will be decorating for the feast. We are

promised an overflowing abundance of flowers andadoration of the Blessed Mother. The beautifultradition of “Mañanitas” will begin in church Dec. 11with the Rosary at 7 p.m., music at 9 p.m., and Mass at10 p.m. The Mañanitas themselves will begin at 11:30p.m. in the Activity Building, followed by a fiesta. Allare invited and encouraged to come.

Which brings me to Mary’s other title: “Patronessof the Americas,” declared by Pope Pius XII in 1946.Many years ago I was speaking with a family friend,Lucia Molina, who is from Costa Rica, and was naively

going on about what it means to be an American. Shelistened to me patiently and then softly but deter-minedly said, “But, I am an American, too.” Is this whatPius the XII had in mind?

“O God, Father of mercies, who placed your peopleunder the singular protection of your Son’s most holyMother, grant that all who invoke the Blessed Virgin ofGuadalupe may seek with ever more lively faith theprogress of peoples in the ways of justice and ofpeace.” – Collect from the Mass for the Feast of OurLady of Guadalupe.

Mark your calendar for theFifth Annual Knights of Columbus

Chili Cook-offSaturday, Jan. 14, after the 4:30 p.m. Mass

Parishioners areinvited to entertheir favorite

recipe(s). Entryfee per recipe:

$10; half will bereturned as cash

awards to the First,Second, and Third

Place winners.

“Professional” judges will be onhand to judge thecompetition. Allparishioners areinvited to enjoythe dinner. Free-

will donationswill be accepted

to support the parish.

Advent is here.

At Christmas, we celebrate God becoming man.Who is Jesus of Nazareth?

And who is the mysterious woman through whom the Incarnation happened?Are you prepared to welcome the birth of our Savior?

Do you want to know more about His – and our – Blessed Mother?Then come to the Sacred Heart Activity Building for two more episodes of

Catholicism:Tuesday, Dec. 6, 7-8 p.m. – “The Revelation of God Become Man”

Tuesday, Dec. 13, 7-8 p.m. – “Mary, Mother of God”Childcare will be provided.

After each viewing, enjoy a light snack and an opportunity for discussion.

Catholicism – two new episodes

Deacon formation also involves the parishBy Bryan Mayhan

As we enter into the Advent season, the readingstell us to prepare for the coming of our Lord. AsAdvent is a time for all to prepare, it is a time ofparticular preparation for 22 men and their wives andchildren in the 2013 Deacon Formation Class ofJefferson City. We are preparing to receive theMinistry of Acolyte.

Currently, as instituted Lectors, our primaryministry is to proclaim the readings at Mass. As aLector focuses on proclaiming the Word, an Acolyte

focuses on service at the Altar and the Eucharist. OnMarch 24, 2012, our class will be instituted into theMinistry of Acolyte by Bishop John Gaydos.

Our class has been in actual formation for twoyears, preceded by more than a year of prayer anddiscernment. For my own family, we no longerremember when formation began, it has become such aregular part of our lives. Periods of prayer govern thepattern of our days, and those prayers then govern ourworks and deeds.

There are many times when we decline otheractivities because formation is our priority. As a class

we meet weekly and at least one Saturday each month,and in between we complete assigned readings andindependent studies. We bear the costs of travel,books, and class materials. Some of my brothers drive

five hours (round-trip) to attend our three hour class –that’s an eight-hour day after having worked a full day.

We study, knowing that ordination is not a guaran-tee. Ordination is not earned, it is a blessing bestowedupon us by the grace of God through the authority ofthe Bishop. We are fallible humans, going forwardeveryday wondering how we can ever be worthy

enough to have such a blessing bestowed upon us. As aresult of this, every day is a day of discernment.

We seek to conform our lives into that of Christ theServant. As such, we receive intense scrutiny from ourwives and family, pastors, deacons, fellow candidates,instructors, the Board of Admissions and Scrutinies(yes, there is such an entity), Bishop Gaydos, and ourfellow parishioners whom we one day hope to serve.Everyone has a stake and plays a part in our formation.

To form us into deacons, we are given an excellenteducation covering scriptures, history, theology, and

practical matters of parish governance. The academicpart is a matter of doing the work just as if we were inschool again. The problem for us now is to turnknowledge into action. The more we know, the morecapable we become. We naturally seek opportunitiesto practice and there are many times when opportuni-ties seek us.

Gaining knowledge is easy, but applying it pasto-rally is more difficult. Application cannot not be

taught, and can only be learned by practice, practice,and more practice. We will make mistakes. If I haveany fear in all of my formation, it is that I will inadvert-ently offend, or worse, harm, someone who needs help.

Mentoring and oversight are critical elements. Wehave at least one deacon and one priest with whom wecan discuss any issue. My own personal desire is to

receive feedback from fellow parishioners, as well.Just like anybody, I like positive feedback. More

importantly, however, I need constructive criticism. Ineed to hear about those facets of ministry where Icould improve. This is something like editing some-thing you have written: after you look at it for so long,you need a second pair of eyes to find your mistakes.So, it is with gratitude that I have received a lot ofinstructive feedback. I ask for more. Ultimately, directfeedback is the best method to help us become betterservants of God’s people.

As we celebrate the season of His Birth and theGod’s light of the world, let us also take time toprepare ourselves. I and my brothers in formation willbe opening ourselves to the Holy Spirit and praying forHim to use us as His vessels for spreading Hisblessings. Some are already working with the elderly,the sick and homebound, those in prison and those whoneed a helping hand. Pray for us that we reach those inneed, particularly in this season of rebirth and light.

Heart of the Matter • December 2011 • Page 9

People in the Pews: Meet Dave and Doris CritesBy Sophie Pingelton

Doris and Dave Crites typically frequent the 8:30a.m. Mass here at Sacred Heart and have been parishio-ners since about 1973.

Dave and Doris are both from Scott City, MO, alittle town outside of Cape Girardeau. The couple metin a restaurant where Doris’ mother worked for Dave’sparents. They have been married for 55 years and have

seven children. Doris and Dave moved to Columbia “in1968 with six of our seven children and a SableCollie,” the youngest being born here in Columbia.Five of their children still live in the Columbia area.Dave and Doris’ children include David, Dwayne,Denise, Deborah, Darren, Deanna, and Darla. (Do yousee a pattern here?) From their large family they areblessed with 11 grandchildren, 2 step-grandchildren,and 5 great grandchildren.

Dave, from a family of 10 children, went to St.Mary’s Catholic High School (now Notre Dame) in

Cape Girardeau. Doris shared that “Dave worked onthe Mississippi River as a deck hand for six and a halfyears. That was before he sold for Farmers Insurance.He would be gone 30 days and home 30 days.” Hethen trained in Chicago for insurance sales.” Dave soldAllstate Insurance for 29 years, retiring in 1996. Inbetween, Dave sold Farmer’s insurance and also ownedTown ‘N ‘Country Battery where he and Doris workedassembling auto batteries. For the past six years, Davehas worked for Missouri Auto Auction three to fourdays a week.

Doris attended Illmo High School in Scott City and

worked in a shoe factory before marriage. Doris hasworn many hats through the years, as well as raisingtheir seven children, including: waitress, secretary,

drapery installer, and upholsterer. Doris worked forSears as a custom drapery installer for about 25 years.She presently works for Home Instead Senior Care andhas for the past five years. She quipped that her 97year old mother Maggie Senn “still lives alone in ScottCity. She drives the ‘old’ people to the store. They areall younger than she.”

Regarding the couple’s free time, “We both enjoyreading, fishing, camping, traveling, and watching

basketball and NASCAR auto racing. I like to sew, knit,and crochet as well. Years ago, when the kids weresmall we tent-camped. About in 1990 we bought an

old camper, a ‘78 Prowler, and camped here in Mis-souri with friends. In 1996 when we retired, we tookour ‘90 Dodge Ram to Arizona and bought a ’93Dutchman Royal and brought it back. We still have it.Since ’97 we have been to Harlingen, TX five timesand to Lake Okeechobee, FL once. When we go toArizona, we stay with our good friend of 40 years,Mary Lou Richardson Henry for three weeks to threemonths.

The attached picture of Dave and Doris was from acruise taken out of New York to Canada and NewEngland. “We went with Mary Lou and her friend. It

was sort of in honor of our 55th anniversary, butmostly because my friend was given 3-18 months (tolive) because of cancer.”

Dave has served Sacred Heart over the years bysinging with the choir in the past. He now assists withcoffee and donuts after Mass, helps with clean-up afterchurch social events, assists with the Easter Banquetfor the Poor, and helps with the Bazaar.

Doris has been co-chair for the Sacred Heart Bazaarfor about 18 years and helps with various socials andfuneral dinners, and helps keep the Activity Building’s

curtains and such maintained and beautifully decorated.Doris shared that although they had attended the

other Catholic churches in town in the past, “we camefrom a very small parish and we like that about SacredHeart – also the people were so nice and friendly.”

Doris and Dave Crites

The Fourteen Holy HelpersBy Tim Pingelton

In 1452 AD, Frederick of Habsburg was crownedFrederick III, Emperor of the Holy Roman Empire. Hewas the last person to be crowned such in Rome. Hewas an emperor who ruled from his throne, rarelytouring his vast lands of Germany and Austria. Shortlyafter his coronation, however, he did venture out to anewly-consecrated chapel. This was the site of visionsa young shepherd had of 14 holy beings. These

heavenly spirits spoke of the need for a chapel on thatremote spot. In just a few years, a small chapel (laternamed Vierzehnheiligen) was built, and pilgrims(emperors and peasants alike) came by the drove tovenerate the holy spot.

The holy entities the shepherd saw over the courseof two years soon became known as the Fourteen HolyHelpers, and during the second pandemic of the BlackPlague, pilgrimages to Vierzehnheiligen necessitated alarger church. After decades of construction, in 1772AD an awesome cathedral was completed to accom-

modate pilgrims and to serve as a priory for Cistercianand Franciscan monks.

A new basilica was constructed in veneration of theFourteen Holy Helpers. Prayers were offered to thisselect group of saints during the Black Plague, and forthe next 400 years for the expediency of their graceand to thank them for previous and future assistance.The Fourteen Holy Helpers (also called Martyrs,although Giles is not considered a true martyr) are asfollows: George (for aid to animals), Blaise (for

protection of the throat and of animals), Erasmus (tofend off stomach ailments), Pantaleon (for physicians

and against cancers), Vitus (to fend off seizures),Christophorus (protection from the plague), Dionysius(protection from headache), Cyriacus (for moralstrength in dying), Eustachius (to protect from familyproblems), Giles (against the plague and for theimpoverished), Margaret of Antioch (to ward offdemonic spirits), Catherine (to prevent sudden death),and Barbara (for protection from fever). The ailmentsagainst which these saints are efficacious are thosesymptomatic of the Black Death pandemic.

The first part of the Catholic “Invocation of the

Holy Helpers” is thus: “Fourteen Holy Helpers, whoserved God in humility and confidence on earth andare now in the enjoyment of His beatific vision inHeaven; because thou persevered till death thou gainedthe crown of eternal life. Remember the dangers thatsurround us in this vale of tears, and intercede for us inall our needs and adversities. Amen.”

The Fourteen Holy Helpers once had a single feastday, but the Vatican II Council thought it better tocelebrate the saints on their individual feast days.

Frederick III was not moved from his throne bymuch, but the power of the Fourteen Holy Helpers

stirred him enough to take a long pilgrimage. All saintsare worthy of contemplation and learning, but, in a diretime such as when the Black Death held Europecaptive, prayer to the Fourteen Holy Helpers is thenext best thing.

By Sheila Bauer and Mary Kay Head

Have you called the parish office lately? It used tobe you would call 443-3470 and you would hear anactual human voice answer your call. But times havechanged, and so has the parish phone system. You nowhear a recording answer your call – albeit a very nice,friendly-sounding voice on the recording, but it is stilla recording. Have you wondered what happened?

Recently the computerized telephone system wasreplaced. The new system replaces an outdated, leasedphone system. When the final lease payment wasmade, the decision to purchase was made in an attemptto decrease operating expense.

The voice that now answers first gives the option tocontact a priest if someone is in need of receiving theSacrament of Anointing. The nice thing about this isthat it will work to allow you access to a priest evenwhen the office is closed. This is a definite plus.

Another plus for this system is that it allows callersto reach their intended party by using extension

numbers, which can be entered at any time. Extension1001 reaches the front desk; 1003 will get you toDeacon John Weaver; 1004 is for Fr. Thomas Saucier,O.P.; 1006 is for Ellyn Forbes; and 1007 goes straightto Fr. Simon Felix Michalski, O.P. If you try to call anddo not have the extension numbers available to you atthe time, you merely need to punch in the first three orfour letters of either the first or last name of theindividual you wish to reach, and the system will directyou that person.

If you don’t know to whom you need to speak, going

New telephone system

in parish office

Continued on page 10

Heart of the Matter • December 2011 • Page 10

Meeting the

long-term purposes

of our parish

To Be An Angel ForeverWrite to:

The FoundationPO Box 10263, Columbia, MO 65205-1263

One Of A KindREMODELINGand home improvements fromColumbia’s oldest and most

reliable remodeling firm

• Additions

• Roofing• Concrete• Conver-

Our history of:50 years experience inhome building andremodeling; with a “can

do for you” attitude, andthousands of satisfiedcustomer references.

Gives you:assurance of clever design, durable crafting,high value, reasonable prices, long-term

satisfaction, and a warranty you can count on.

s i o n s

• Wind doors• Foundations• Kitchens

• Siding• Waterpr oof-i n g

• Baths• Decks• Repair

Call today!

474-9444

VISIT US AT www.naugleco.com,

OR JUST Google “Gary Naugle”

The Door is Open!The Knights of Columbus is anorganization of Catholic men (ages 18and over) founded on the principles of

charity, unity, fraternity, and patriotism.For information about Council 1529,contact Tony Speichinger (573-443-8648).Come join us!

Wisdom of the Church Fathers

Christ suffered to keep us from angerYou have a spiritual nature. The soul is the image of

the Creator. Honor the image of God by being inagreement with all humanity.

Remember death, and do not be angry, so that yourpeace will not be a peace of constraint.

As long as you live, cleanse your soul from wrath.For if it should go down to Sheol with you, your road

will lead straight to hell.Do not keep anger in your soul. Do not hold fury in

your soul. You have no power over your soul except indoing what is good.

You are bought with the blood of God; you areredeemed by the passion of Christ. For your sake Hesuffered death, so that you might die to sin. His faceendured spitting, so that you might not shrink fromscorn. He drank vinegar and gall, so that you might bekept away from wrath. His body was whipped, so thatyou might not fear suffering.

If you truly are his servant, fear your holy Lord. Ifyou are truly His disciple, walk in the Master’sfootsteps. Endure scorn from your brother, so that youmay be the companion of Christ. Do not show angeragainst anyone, so that you will not be separated fromthe Redeemer.

– St. Ephrem the Syrian, Homily on Admonitionand Repentance, 5

A questionBy Jennifer Holland

Why do we look elsewhere for Him? Should wereally spend all our time looking past today, the familywe have here, and the world around us, while we awaitour end times?

What if He was born in a stable to show us that

every life here is worth living, from the one thatbegins in a castle to the one that begins in the streets?His earthly father was a laborer. Why did He notchoose to be born to a rich man whose money couldgive Him the means for power? Why did all of theperfection of the heavens become a human infant,nursing at His mother’s breast? Can we find heaven in

the tiny cheeks that lie in our arms and sleep?If God is love and the most perfect love we know in

the life He chooses to glorify is in our homes with ourfamilies, might we miss something if we wait for whatis to come? If we love our families, we honor Him. Ifwe love our friends, we follow His example.

God became man, not so that we could look toheaven, but to show us what a perfect life looks likeand can be, and to glorify our humanity. We canperfectly love our families and friends. We can prayand expect a miracle cure or healing. Our faith can

allow us to walk on water. We can see perfection,peace, and love in a child’s eyes and assume that

heaven is there. In breaking bread and sharing wine at ameal, we can look with love at those gathered and seeGod; knowing that where two or more are gathered inHis name, He is there.

In this season of love and giving, let us look to theeveryday and find our heavens. In the peace and joy ofour daily lives, made magical by the holiday season, letus know that we can share in the glory of the heavenlyfamily while we smile at our own. We celebrate thatGod became man, and in doing so raised our humanitytruly to His image.

May you find the Christ Child in the manger of yourhome this season.

Family Focus

Red Brick Farm

www.redbrickfarm.blogspot.com

or on facebook

(573) 687-2105

Fresh fruits and veggies, farm raised chicken, fresh eggs, breads andbaked goods, gourmet jams and jellies

Red Brick Farm is owned and operated by parishioners Charles andJennifer Holland and their four children, all of whom take a daily

role in the care of the chickens, the upkeep of the garden, the

preparation of the baked goods, and preservation of the harvest.

to the front desk is the appropriateplace to start. The individual there willstill be happy to direct your call to theproper person. However, when youknow just the person you need, this

system will allow you to reach him orher even faster than before.

Future plans include incorporatingmusic into the system for calls onhold (hopefully using music recordedby the Sacred Heart Choir). Won’t thatbe a delightful way to be entertainedas you wait?

Continued from page 9

Telephone system

Heart of the Matter • December 2011 • Page 11

Holiday greetings from “outside the walls”By Dawn Aceituno

The parish of Sacred Heart extendsfar beyond the walls of our beautiful

church building. Some of our parishio-ners who are homebound or in thedifferent residential/nursing communi-ties wish to extend holiday greetingsand blessings to the parish. Withoutexception, everyone is deeply gratefulfor the opportunity to receive Jesus inthe Eucharist, even while they areunable to physically make it to church.

Diana Carter-Meyers (The Bluff

Terrace): “This beautiful Advent seasonlet us all remember the joy of giving

thanks for the gift of Baby Jesus and allthose who minister to the homebound.”

(Included in the picture is “Bernard” the

holiday dog.)

Jeanette Norman (Just arrived atThe Bluffs): “Happy Thanksgiving

to Everyone!”

(Right) LynnThornton: Sends

holiday greetings toeveryone and,

“Would just like to getback to church!”

(Left) MaryRousset (Boone

Landing): “Thank

you for caring.”

Norma McCulley (The Bluffs):“Blessings for the holidays to all

those at Sacred Heart!”

(Right) Rosemary

Trager (Boone Landing):“So, so happy to receive

the Lord, and it would notbe possible without our

Eucharistic Ministers.”

Virginia “Ginny” Anderson (The

Bluffs): “Merriest ever Christmasto all at Sacred Heart!”

Heart of the Matter • December 2011 • Page 12

PROST BUILDERS, INC.The 8th Generation

Vaughn X. Prost, P.E.President

CORPORATE OFFICEPO Box 1727Jefferson City, MO 65102573-635-0211573-634-2442 fax

COLUMBIA OFFICEPO BOX 253

Columbia, MO 65205800-635-0212

vxp@prostbuilders.com

INDUSTRIAL • COMMERCIAL

ECCLESIASTICAL • RESTORATION

Paul L. Kanago, CFPCERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER

Registered Representative

1701 Katy LaneColumbia, MO 65203

SECURITIES SERVICE NETWORK

MEMBER NASD & SIPC573-446-7526

Fax 573-446-2799Toll free: 800-446-7520

Mission Statement

The mission of Heart of the Matter is tobe a communication tool for Sacred HeartParish. It is our goal to inform, toinstruct, to evangelize, and at times, toamuse readers. We rely on God’s graceand on the efforts of many volunteers tofulfill this mission. Heart of the Matter

is published monthly by Sacred HeartCatholic Church, 1115 Locust St.,Columbia, MO 65201, 573/443-3470.

221 E. High StJefferson City, MO 65101573-636-8313

816 E. BroadwayColumbia, MO 65201573-442-6811

Stonecrest MallOsage Beach

MO 65065

LABRUNERIE FINANCIALMember NASD SIPC

Alex LABRUNERIE

601 W. Nifong Blvd., Suite 3BColumbia, MO 65203573-449-5313800-736-7460

Fax 573-449-8101

e-mail: labrunerie@socketis.net

Parish Celebrations

One Of A KindCUSTOM HOME

Of High Value And Durable QualityJust For You, Priced In The $100s

• 10-year warranty

• Lease hold buyouts• Virtual walk-thru tours

• Your home as trade in• Your lot or ours• Help 1st time buyers

Our easy design/build processallows you to make a smoothmove into your dream home

Our history of:50 years experience in

home building andremodeling; with a “cando for you” attitude, and

thousands of satisfiedcustomer references.

Gives you:assurance of clever design, durable crafting,high value, reasonable prices, long-term

satisfaction, and a warranty you can count on.

Call today!

474-9444

VISIT US AT www.naugleco.com,

OR JUST Google “Gary Naugle”

“BROTHER, CAN YOU

SPARE A DIME?”

Just $1 will provide15 meals for those in need.

Please support theCentral Missouri Food Bank

and its pantriesby calling 573-474-1020

WE BUILD TO SUIT

Lots Available

NE Side of ColumbiaNear Garden City Subdivision

Reasonable Prices for theWorking Family

CALL JACK AT J & B

BUILDERS

(573) 864-7418

(Left) Sarah Elizabeth Harden,

daughter of Paul Francis andHiliary Lloy (Turnbaugh)Harden, was baptized at Sacred

Heart at the 11 a.m. MassSunday, Oct. 23, 2011. Pictured

are godfather Daniel Harden;Hiliary; Paul holding Sarah; and

Cecilia Harden, proxy forgodmother Molly Bissell. In backare Deacon Richard Harden,

Sarah’s grandfather whoofficiated at the baptism; and Fr.

Thomas Saucier, O.P.

Celebrating All Souls DayBy Mary Kay Head

All Souls Day is celebrated Nov. 2,just after All Saints Day, and solemnlycommemorates the faithful departed.The Church prays for, and remembers,the faithful departed throughout theentire year. However, All Souls is thesolemn day of commemoration, when

the Church remembers, prays for, andoffers Masses for the faithful departed.Typically Christians will take this day tooffer prayers on behalf of their departedrelatives and friends.

At Sacred Heart, a beautiful traditionwas begun by our beloved Sister JoAnnSchmidt. At the celebration of Mass,after the homily, time is set aside toremember those who have gone beforeus. As a bell is rung, the name of adeceased parishioner or family member

is read. A member of the family or afriend comes forward to light a candlein his or her memory. This is repeatedfor each individual who died during thepast year. Following this, all thosepresent are invited to come forward tolight candles in memory of their lovedones. This celebration of remembranceis both beautiful and very moving.

This past year, Sacred Heart ormembers of the Sacred Heart family

celebrated the beginning of eternal lifeof 20 individuals. These are Patrick

Fr. Simon Felix Michalski, O.P., raises the host in consecration as

candles signify the many souls remembered.

David Rackers, Charles Edgar Harr,Margaret Barbero, Suzanne MarieFerris, James Thomas Head, LouisVincent Holroyd, James AdelbertBuckman, Perry Andrews, BarbaraLouise Musket, John Francis Pike,Ramona Miller, Edward Berg, James

McDermott, Carmen Aguilera, MaryWhitworth, Forrest Perkins, LindaMazumdar, Shao Hua He, MalindaMaiorino, and Maria Flores de Lopez.While saddened by their earthly depar-ture, their initiation into the communionof saints was warmly celebrated.