Blog Archives - Articulating Hope

Abbey of St. Walburga Open House Is June 6, 2015

5/31/2015

This is a reminder to all those in northern Colorado and southeastern Wyoming about the open house this coming Saturday at the Abbey of St. Walburga. I hope many of you will take advantage of this opportunity to celebrate with the Benedictine Sisters.

I have had the privilege to go to the Abbey each year since moving to Wyoming. The chancery staff makes an annual retreat at the Abbey. I have also had the pleasure of leading a few retreats there as well. I am looking forward to leading a weekend retreat this October sponsored by the Knights of Columbus and open to men in northern Colorado and southern Wyoming. The atmosphere at the Abbey is one that certainly draws you into prayer. The typical Benedictine hospitality is amazing.

I extend my congratulations and prayerful best wishes to all of the sisters at the Abbey of St. Walburga. May God continue to bless your ministry abundantly!

Kindergarten Graduation--Does It Get Any Cuter?

5/29/2015

I had the opportunity to attend Kindergarten Graduation this morning at St. Mary's Catholic School in Cheyenne, Wyoming. I am not sure where the biggest smiles could be located. The graduates were excited; parents of the graduates were beaming; grandparents were filled with joy. If a person could capture the emotions present at Kindergarten Graduation and bottle it, a great fortune would be in store for that individual.

Each time I attend one of these ceremonies I am amazed at the coordination of everything. The children move right on cue and there isn't hardly ever a missed beat in the process. The patience of kindergarten teachers to accomplish these tasks must be nothing short of miraculous. A tip of the hat to all teachers who bring so much to our little children at such young ages.

Congratulations to Kindergarten Graduates everywhere!

Graduation From 8th Grade Is A Milestone Memory

5/28/2015

I had the pleasure of participating today in the 8th grade Graduation Mass with the St. Mary's Catholic School community in Cheyenne, Wyoming. It was a beautiful celebration. The graduates were excited to complete this chapter of life while beginning to anticipate the next phase of their academic endeavors. You could feel the joy and energy among all in attendance. This was a scrapbook moment for the graduates as well as their parents and families.

These types of gatherings remind me of the blessings of God. The gift of love between a man and a woman which brings forth new life is not something we should take for granted. As I watched all of the young kindergarten students enter church it was a solemn reminder that these 8th grade graduates were once in their places. The transformation that takes place in eight years, physically, emotionally, intellectually, and spiritually is no small feat. There are many graces and blessings during these formative years.

The blessing of receiving an education is phenomenal. While we may consider it with little regard in our country, the reality is that a good education is a huge factor in our adult lives. It will make a difference on many different levels--economically, socially, and spiritually--just to name a few. If the 8th grade graduates don't understand this now, eventually they will come to see the value and the blessing of their education.

The pastor and other clergy members have been a tremendous blessing to the students through the years. This is not something I mention lightly. There is a positive impact on the lives of these young people because of the care, concern, and love extended by Church leadership. The love of Christ has been demonstrated in and through these ministers to the children, their parents, and the teachers and staff as well. They have helped create some milestone memories.

Teachers--what can I say? Your commitment, dedication, and professionalism make our world a better place. Thank you for your ministry. Your hours of lesson planning, grading, meeting with parents, preparing newsletters, compiling report cards, facilitating extracurricular activities, and monitoring recess, lunch, and crosswalks all demonstrate your willingness to give and not count the cost. All of the little things you do which most of us never see--thank you! You are frequently the milestone memories of the students.

Support Staff--what can I say? You make a lot of things happen on a daily basis and we just assume it happens on its own. You are the spokes on the wheel that keep things moving efficiently. You may not hear it very often, but I want to say thank you for the many ways you make our schools better. In the creation of milestone memories your jobs may be made a little more difficult. Office workers are signing people in and out of the school and the maintenance staff watches as the facility takes a beating from all the "fun" taking place. I am especially reminded of this when I see the principal and P.E. teacher being taped to the wall. A little chaotic, but memorable! In the end, more scrapbook moments have been captured.

Principals-- what can I say? Take a day or two off after school ends and then get back at it to start preparing for this fall. Just joking! Your role as the spiritual and academic leader of the school is no small task, and the burden of responsibility which you bear is huge. Please know of my gratitude for your commitment to Catholic education. While the students may not frequently remember you as a milestone memory, your role behind the scenes has made it all possible for them. They may not realize it for a few years yet, but your presence has impacted them immensely. Thank you for enriching their lives through your administrative expertise.

Finally, I offer a word of gratitude and encouragement to the parents of our students. Being a parent is no small undertaking and the challenges are real. May God continue to bless each of you as you live out your vocation as the first and primary educator of your child in the faith!

Have a Blessed Summer!

Academics, Knowledge, Wisdom, Truth, and Liberty

5/26/2015

Another academic year draws to a close, or has already been completed for some. What has been achieved during the last nine months in our classrooms all across America? Are we a nation growing in knowledge and understanding? What are the moral implications in regard to the direction our institutions of learning seem to be leaning? In 1765, John Adams surmised in his Dissertation on Canon and Feudal Law, “Liberty cannot be preserved without a general knowledge among the people.”

The shift in American culture in my lifetime has been rapid and a bit unsettling. The apparent decline in moral and ethical standards is truly disheartening. It seems that evil is celebrated and righteousness is mocked on a regular basis. People of faith are ridiculed and the moral guidance of the Church is shunned and ignored. Where is the general knowledge among the people going to be derived? Will it only be emanated from atheistic institutions?

The irrelevance of faith in modern society can simply be described as sad. This is not just an American problem. Even in Catholic Ireland there is great joy and jubilation today because the backward ways of the Church have been overridden by popular vote. The shackles of restraint imposed by the Church have been removed. Sexual morality is determined by each individual and there is a complete disregard for any absolute Truth. Who would have ever dreamed that a Catholic country would completely turn its back on the Faith of our Fathers?

In American society we have seen the deterioration of moral values imposed upon us by the government itself. God has been systematically removed from our classrooms. Health classes have embraced sexual exploration as a mainstay of the curriculum. Organizations such as Planned Parenthood are invited and welcomed onto campus, but any organization holding fast to traditional values and morals is typically not welcome. There is an agenda being pursued and the success rate of dismantling the family unit through this process has been dramatic.

In a speech to the Virginia Convention in 1788, James Madison said, “I believe there are more instances of the abridgment of the freedom of the people by gradual and silent encroachments of those in power than by violent and sudden usurpations.” Does anything come to mind when you read this? How about all of the federal regulations imposed upon the people through a multitude of agencies. These regulations are not passed by Congress. Moreover, they are frequently released quietly before a holiday weekend so there is little press coverage. It is a gradual and silent encroachment. James Madison knew what he was talking about back in 1788. It would behoove us to pay attention to his words of wisdom today.

As I reflect upon all of the Memorial Day celebrations that took place this past weekend, there is a significant question staying etched in my mind. Are we a virtuous nation? America has done a lot of good throughout the world. We have accomplished much both at home and abroad. Will we continue to be a nation of excellence? The moral decline has me gravely concerned about our future. John Adams said, “Liberty can no more exist without virtue and independence than the body can live and move without a soul.” Will virtue remain in our country?

I want to close by offering a word of gratitude to all of the teachers who strive to fulfill their calling well. There are a lot of good public school teachers striving to be a positive impact on society. Unfortunately, you have been handcuffed in many ways to teach the fullness of Truth. We have wandered far from God since the founding of our country. The educational system in America is now more concerned about providing transgender bathrooms than teaching eternal Truth. Is it a huge surprise to see society struggling as a result? Faith-filled individuals teaching in public schools under modern circumstances must surely face some difficulties and conflicts in conscience. I hope you are able to stay strong in your role. Even if you aren’t allowed to teach the faith, you can still be a witness to Jesus Christ. We need that witness.

Teachers in Catholic and other Christian schools need to be diligent. We need you to provide a solid academic education as well as exemplary faith formation. Please walk the talk. Be a model of Christian witness. Assist your students to grow in wisdom, grace, and holiness. Teach them the history of our great country. Let them know the role that faith played in the founding of this great nation. Equip them to stand against the gates of hell. Our religious liberty is essential and we can’t surrender it due to ignorance. Read the early documents of our country and be informed. Subsequently, pass that knowledge onto your students.

Woodrow Wilson gave a speech in New York on September 9, 1912 in which he stated, “Liberty has never come from the government. Liberty has always come from the subjects of it. The history of liberty is the history of resistance. The history of liberty is a history of limitations of governmental power, not the increase of it.” Take some time to learn about the many federal regulations quietly set forth just before the holiday weekend. Liberty will only be secure if we are an informed citizenry.

Educators, enjoy the summer break. Come back in the fall with a renewed vigor to equip your students for the journey of life. May we realize the ideal of being "one nation under God."

Transitions In Life Seem To Be Plentiful Lately

5/25/2015

Some of my family members traveled from Missouri and Colorado to be present for Maria and Tyler's wedding on Saturday. It isn't very often that a good portion of us are gathered together in one place at the same time. Thankfully, technology allows for an easier process of sharing some of the memories of the day for those that were unable to attend.

It has been a a whirlwind of activity during the last week. On Wednesday I served as a deacon for the funeral of Barbara Murray. Although I didn't know her well, I know several of her children and grandchildren. It is obvious through each of them that Barbara was a wonderful woman. I continue to keep the family in my prayers through this transition in life.

On Friday I served as a deacon for the ordination of two men to the priesthood. This was a beautiful celebration. The huge impact of such a life transition for these two families is monumental. It was wonderful that Fr. Hiep was able to have family members from Vietnam present for the ordination ceremony. I extend my congratulations as well as my prayers to both Fr. Hiep and Fr. Augustine. I look forward to working closely with Fr. Augustine in the months ahead since he has been assigned to the Cathedral Parish. I pray that God fills you with strength, wisdom and grace during this amazing transition in your lives.

Finally, Saturday was the wedding of Maria and Tyler. It was a nice celebration and the rain held off until later in the afternoon. Quite a number of people were able to enjoy carriage rides at the reception prior to the onset of the rain. The ceremony was beautiful and it was a privilege to have Bishop Paul Etienne as the celebrant of the wedding Mass. This will be a tremendous transition for Maria and Tyler. May God bless you abundantly all the days of your life together!

Margaret had all of her siblings present from Missouri and a few extended family members as well.

The Wedding Party is getting ready to do what?????

The Wedding Party Jump of course!

Congratulations Maria and Tyler!

Maria Dobelmann and Tyler Ward Are Married

5/23/2015

It is hard to believe after months and months of planning that the wedding day of my daughter arrived today and is now complete. Her mom and I are grateful for the truly marvelous celebration. I am going to skip posting a lengthy description of the day. Instead, I am simply going to give you the link to Bishop Etienne's blog where you can see the homily that was delivered today at the wedding ceremony. Enjoy!

http://bishopsblog.dioceseofcheyenne.org/2015/05/23/the-dignity-of-marriage-the-love-of-a-man-and-woman/

Diocese of Cheyenne Priesthood Ordinations

5/22/2015

I extend my sincere congratulations to Fr. Hiep and Fr. Augustine. The Mass of Ordination was a beautiful celebration today at the Cathedral of St. Mary. May God bless each of you abundantly today and always!

As The Scrapbook Fades And Crumbles

5/19/2015

Have you pulled out your scrapbook lately and spent some time reminiscing? Do people even have scrapbooks any longer or is everything kept digitally preserved? Well, I have a scrapbook and it is falling apart. The plastic pages have lost their grip, the pictures are turning yellow, and the newspaper clippings are looking a bit worn and tattered. It may be symbolic of the way I feel recently since spending a couple of days in the hospital in March. I just don't feel up to speed and probably resemble my scrapbook in many ways.

I had not looked at my scrapbook for many years, but I was prompted to do so this week because of something that caught my eye on the internet. I was looking for an on-line video of a homily I gave about seven or eight years ago before moving to Wyoming. I typed my name into the search engine to see if I could locate what I wanted to see. I became distracted when I saw my name associated with a website of which I was unfamiliar. So I clicked on the site. To my surprise there was an article published in the Heartland Connection on March 31, 2015 which mentioned me by name. http://www.heartlandconnection.com/sports/story.aspx?id=1185091#.VVurR_lViko
It said, "On the mound, redshirt freshman Kent Frantz is the first Bulldog hurler to start 5-0 on a season since Vernon Dobelmann did so in 1982."

I was unaware that going 5-0 as a pitcher was that dramatic of an accomplishment. It was a bit surprising to read in this article that another pitcher at the university had not succeeded in doing so in the last 33 years until Kent came along this year. A lot has changed in those 33 years, including the name of the school. It was Northeast Missouri State University when I attended. Now it is Truman State University.

Reading this article prompted me to pull out my scrapbook and spend some time looking back. It gave me a sense of perspective of how things change through the years. I played basketball and baseball at the university level and enjoyed a certain amount of success in each sport. I received Honorable Mention to the Academic All-American Baseball Team my senior year. This was my favorite accomplishment because I valued the education I received in addition to the privilege of playing sports.

Why does any of this matter today? It fills me with a sense of gratitude. I was blessed to play in two different sports at the collegiate level and attain my academic education via a basketball scholarship. That is truly a blessing. It also reminds me that everything I have is a gift from God. It was only three short years after graduation from college that I was diagnosed with cancer the first time. I am about to hit my 29th anniversary of being a survivor since the first diagnosis and 14 years since the second diagnosis. The health and vigor I enjoyed as a young man in college is not something I take for granted. Major surgery and chemotherapy treatments have a way of letting you know just how precious the gift of good health truly is.

I can no longer dunk a basketball. I can no longer throw an 85 mph fastball or a sharp curve ball. However, I have the memories of those days. I have the memories of the college campuses I was able to see because of sports. I played as far away as Anchorage and Kotzebue, Alaska to the north and west and Florence, Alabama to the south and east. Those were some fantastic experiences.

My scrapbook may be fading and crumbling. That is okay. I still enjoy the pictures and the memories. My health and vitality is not what it used to be. That is okay. I am a child of God and blessed with grace. A trip down memory lane reminded me that life has not always been easy. That is okay. The suffering has highlighted the many comforts, pleasures, and priviliges that have also been present on the journey.

What are some of your favorite memories from days gone by? Take some time today to give thanks to God for all of the blessings.

This is 1983 at the University of Missouri St. Louis

I was able to wear the number 30 for both sports my senior year

Christ's Unconquered Athlete--St. Andrew Bobola

5/15/2015

Athletics are a big deal in modern society. The amount of money involved is staggering. The power, prestige, and the fame that goes along with it are also mind-boggling. The weight-lifting, the conditioning, the practicing, and the self-discipline exercised by some athletes can bring a sense of awe to those who yearn for such accomplishments. There is definitely an aspect of sacrifice connected with the pursuit of athletic excellence. What would happen in our lives if that type of dedication was put forth in regard to our spiritual training?

Andrew Bobola was an individual who demonstrated such a commitment. He willingly undertook the difficult labors and hardships to safeguard the Catholic faith of his fellow citizens. Andrew understood the necessity of protecting their moral life. The same is desperately true for the people of the modern era. How desperately do we need spiritual leaders in our world today with the same type of tenacity and commitment as Andrew Bobola?

On May 16, 1957, Pope Pius XII issued the encyclical letter, Invicti Athletae. It was the 300th anniversary of the martyrdom of Andrew Bobola. On May 16, 1657, on the Feast of the Lord’s Ascension into heaven, this Jesuit priest was sieged, tortured and ultimately executed for his faith. Paragraphs 17—19 of the encyclical describe the horrible ordeal with enough detail to churn the stomach. Here was an athlete for Christ who ran the race to the finish.

While this encyclical was written well over a half century ago, the contents of paragraph 22 demonstrate a peculiar timelessness in the struggles of the Church. In part it states, “Today, to Our sorrow, there are places where the Christian faith either languishes in inert weakness, or is practically extinguished. The Gospel teaching is almost entirely ignored by many; by others - what is worse - it is totally repudiated.”

Those words of the encyclical sound a lot like what we are experiencing today in 2015. Pope Pius XII is reminding all of us, but in particular those of us in leadership positions within the Church, that we have work to do. It is evident that that the Christian faith is languishing in inert weakness here in the United States of America. Are we going to idly sit by and watch the flame of faith get completely extinguished? Where is the sense of urgency? Are we going to continue week after week in a mode of status quo?

It is no secret that the teachings of the Gospel are ignored on a widespread basis all across the country, and this includes some of the people who are actually sitting in the pews on a weekly basis. Unfortunately, the wolf at the door has been successful in scattering the flock. The example of St. Andrew Bobola will hopefully inspire a new generation of faithful leaders willing to lay down their lives for the faith. May the flame of faith received at Baptism be kept burning brightly throughout our entire lives!

I encourage you to read the encyclical in its entirety. It can be found on the Vatican website at:
http://w2.vatican.va/content/pius-xii/en/encyclicals/documents/hf_p-xii_enc_16051957_invicti-athletae.html

The Mystagogy Experience--Pentecost Power!

5/13/2015

Would you lead the final session of mystagogy? That is a question I love having placed before me. Getting invited to lead the neophytes through the mysteries of faith right before the celebration of Pentecost is exciting. Seeing their enthusiasm, their desire, and their hunger for more is truly uplifting. The Church can benefit immensely from what these new converts have to offer.

Why do people continue to enter the Church if an increasing number of those within the fold are choosing to walk away? As noted earlier this week from Pew research more and more people are entering the category of “None” in regard to their religious affiliation. Will the neophytes make it for the long haul, or will a significant percentage of them enter the “None” category within a year or two?

One of the participants in the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) labeled the experience as “fun.” I had never heard that word used as a descriptive when discussing anything about church. I usually hear dull, boring, and lifeless. So I asked for some specific examples of what this individual found to be fun. It came down to the relationships that had been developed. There was a new-found relationship with God and a bonding with the other participants of RCIA. It was fun. Wonderful!

I strive to make the last gathering an exciting and fun endeavor as well. There is a yearning inside me to conduct a full six-week Life In The Spirit Seminar and cram it into this one 90 minute session. However, I refrain from that attempt, but cover a lot of ground nonetheless. I pose a multitude of questions and explore a broad spectrum of topics. Although there is still some hesitation to engage vibrantly in the discussions, eventually the ball gets rolling and the impact of being initiated into the Church begins to be revealed. Here is a condensed list of some of the questions I toss out to the group:

1.      What has been your experience since the Easter Vigil?

2.      Have you spent any time reflecting on the gift of faith?

3.      Do you worship with full, conscious, and active participation at the Eucharistic liturgy?

4.      Do you take time for daily prayer? Are you disciplined in this practice?

5.      Do you read, reflect, and pray with the Sacred Scriptures?

6.      Have you spent any additional time reflecting on the Creed?

7.      Have you continued to learn and grow in your knowledge of the faith?

8.      Have you opened the door of faith for others?

9.      How are you serving the poor and marginalized members of society?

10. Are you sincerely seeking holiness in your life?

The promise of Pentecost isn’t just for the neophytes. It is for all of us. Do we truly believe the Scriptures? “You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you.” Are we walking in that power? Do we believe that we will do the works Jesus did, and greater still, because He has gone to the Father? (See John 14:12) Jesus came that we may have life and have it to the full. (John 10:10) Let's have the courage to start living like we believe it!

Come Holy Spirit!