Immediate openings for Agency Directors
In Farmington, NM and inChinle, AZ
Knowledge of Catholic Social Teaching,
BA degree with some experience in human services.
Strong administrative and supervisory skills,
Knowledge of Quick Books, or willing to learn.
Email resume to director@catholiccharitiesgallup.com
Wednesday, December 24, 2008
Thursday, December 18, 2008
Cancellations & Delays
Due to adverse travel conditions due to the winter weather, Bishop Olmsted is not able to travel as scheduled to Gallup December 18 and 19, 2008. The Bishop's Brunch scheduled for December 18, 2008 at Sacred Heart Cathedral Family Center has been postponed until
January 8, 2009.
The scheduled installation of Rev. Eduardo (Lalo) Espinoza, ofm as Pastor of St. Francis Church in Gallup tonight has been cancelled and will be rescheduled.
Any office appointments Bishop Olmsted had for 12/18 and 12/19 have also been postponed and will be rescheduled.
January 8, 2009.
The scheduled installation of Rev. Eduardo (Lalo) Espinoza, ofm as Pastor of St. Francis Church in Gallup tonight has been cancelled and will be rescheduled.
Any office appointments Bishop Olmsted had for 12/18 and 12/19 have also been postponed and will be rescheduled.
Sunday, December 7, 2008
The Question has come up frequently.....
Attention Pastors, Administrators, RCIA and RCIC Coordinators:
Rite of Election scheduled for Sunday, March 8, 2009
2:00 pm - Sacred Heart Cathedral - Gallup
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
Holy Hour for Vocations
A Holy Hour of Eucharistic Adoration for priestly vocations will be held each Tuesday from 3:30-4:30 pm in the Blessed Sacrament Chapel at the Pastoral Center in Gallup.
A Holy Hour for vocations will also be held each Thursday at 7:00 pm at Sacred Heart Cathedral except for the following upcoming dates: Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day and the Solemnity of Mary the Mother of God on January 1.
A Holy Hour for vocations will also be held each Thursday at 7:00 pm at Sacred Heart Cathedral except for the following upcoming dates: Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day and the Solemnity of Mary the Mother of God on January 1.
Thursday, October 30, 2008
Catholics in the Public Square - Bishop Thomas J. Olmsted
Why would a bishop write a booklet on the mission of Catholics in the public square? Because there is a public square, and because Christ wants us to be there, loving our neighbor, doing works of charity, promoting the common good and defending the dignity and right to life of all. This is all part of being called by God to holiness of life. Holiness requires personal prayer and frequent reception of the sacraments. It also requires putting that faith into practice in both personal and public dimensions of life.
We live in a time in history when Catholics and other people of faith are frequently pressured to separate our faith from our public life. We are told that faith in God is a purely private affair and, therefore, should be left out of public debate. But such false contentions make a mockery of faith. They also are a disservice to society. If our faith does not impact on every dimension of our life, then it is not true faith. It has become a mere pretense. As St. James writes in his New Testament Epistle (2:26), “Faith without works is dead.”
Imposing on others or living lives of integrity?
In a similar vein, some contend that we Catholics are trying to impose our beliefs on others. Nothing could be farther from the truth as the Church merely proposes but does not impose its will.
As people of faith, we engage issues on the basis of what we believe, just as atheists engage issues on the basis of what they hold dear. We fight for what we think is right. When we act on the basis of our faith convictions, we are just living lives of integrity, being faithful to the vocation and mission we have received from God. This is good for others, even those without faith. It is good for one’s country. People of authentic faith strengthen the spiritual and ethical fiber of their country. These are the kind of citizens the world needs.
This is why Christ tells His followers (Mk 16:15), “Go into the whole world and proclaim the Gospel to every creature.” He also tells us (Mt 5:14-16), “You are the light of the world. A city set on a mountain cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and then put it under a bushel basket; it is set on a lamp stand, where it gives light to all in the house. Just so, your light must shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your heavenly Father.”
The scandal of doing nothing
If we do not put our faith into practice in the public square, our profession of faith becomes hollow, and we become a source of scandal for others. Scandal is not only a word or action that draws another into evil. It is also the omission of words or actions that are called for by justice. Many crisis-points in history illustrate this scandal of inaction, for example, slavery in the United States, the Holocaust in Europe, and ethnic cleansing in Rwanda. In retrospect, we find ourselves wondering, “How could those who believed in Christ have stood by idly in the face of such evil and injustice?” Yet, what we are really challenged to do by such historical instances is to examine our own times and our own inactions. Where are the great injustices now? By failing to do good when we have the ability and the duty to do so, we commit sin ourselves and we lead others to do the same.
Not to act when our neighbor’s life or the foundation of the family is at stake, as in the case of not attempting to protect unborn children threatened by abortion or to protect the institution of marriage, is a particularly grave scandal of omission. Jesus had strong words to say about this kind of scandal (Mt 18:6): “Whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in me to sin, it would be better for him to have a great millstone hung around his neck and to be drowned in the depths of the sea.” Our Savior also said (Lk 17:1), “Things that cause sin will inevitably occur, but woe to the person through whom they occur.”
Non-negotiables?
For some years now it has become fashionable to speak about “a seamless garment” approach to the Church’s teaching on political and social issues. While there is merit to this approach, in that it rightly emphasizes the inner coherence and objective connectedness of these issues, there have been times when such an approach left the impression that these issues are of equal importance. Nothing could be farther from the truth.
Concern about this confusion led Pope John Paul II to write: “Above all, the common outcry, which is justly made on behalf of human rights — for example, the right to health, to home, to work, to family, to culture — is false and illusory if the right to life, the most basic and fundamental right and the condition for all other personal rights, is not defended with the maximum determination.” (Christifideles laici, #38)
Pope Benedict XVI shed further light on this matter in his address on March 30, 2006, to European politicians:
“As far as the Catholic Church is concerned, the principal focus of her interventions in the public arena is the protection and promotion of the dignity of the person, and she is thereby consciously drawing particular attention to principles which are not negotiable. Among these the following emerge clearly today:
Protection of life in all its stages, from the first moment of conception until natural death;
Recognition and promotion of the natural structure of the family — as a union between a man and a woman based on marriage — and its defense from attempts to make it juridically equivalent to radically different forms of union which in reality harm it and contribute to its destabilization, obscuring its particular character and its irreplaceable social role;
The protection of the rights of parents to educate their children.”
So why does a bishop write a little book titled “Catholics in the Public Square”? Because he wants to encourage the members of the Church, and indeed all people of good will, to be good citizens, to engage in public debate, to be well informed on key public issues, to vote, to put their faith into action.
This column originally appeared in the Oct. 19, 2006, edition of The Catholic Sun.
We live in a time in history when Catholics and other people of faith are frequently pressured to separate our faith from our public life. We are told that faith in God is a purely private affair and, therefore, should be left out of public debate. But such false contentions make a mockery of faith. They also are a disservice to society. If our faith does not impact on every dimension of our life, then it is not true faith. It has become a mere pretense. As St. James writes in his New Testament Epistle (2:26), “Faith without works is dead.”
Imposing on others or living lives of integrity?
In a similar vein, some contend that we Catholics are trying to impose our beliefs on others. Nothing could be farther from the truth as the Church merely proposes but does not impose its will.
As people of faith, we engage issues on the basis of what we believe, just as atheists engage issues on the basis of what they hold dear. We fight for what we think is right. When we act on the basis of our faith convictions, we are just living lives of integrity, being faithful to the vocation and mission we have received from God. This is good for others, even those without faith. It is good for one’s country. People of authentic faith strengthen the spiritual and ethical fiber of their country. These are the kind of citizens the world needs.
This is why Christ tells His followers (Mk 16:15), “Go into the whole world and proclaim the Gospel to every creature.” He also tells us (Mt 5:14-16), “You are the light of the world. A city set on a mountain cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and then put it under a bushel basket; it is set on a lamp stand, where it gives light to all in the house. Just so, your light must shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your heavenly Father.”
The scandal of doing nothing
If we do not put our faith into practice in the public square, our profession of faith becomes hollow, and we become a source of scandal for others. Scandal is not only a word or action that draws another into evil. It is also the omission of words or actions that are called for by justice. Many crisis-points in history illustrate this scandal of inaction, for example, slavery in the United States, the Holocaust in Europe, and ethnic cleansing in Rwanda. In retrospect, we find ourselves wondering, “How could those who believed in Christ have stood by idly in the face of such evil and injustice?” Yet, what we are really challenged to do by such historical instances is to examine our own times and our own inactions. Where are the great injustices now? By failing to do good when we have the ability and the duty to do so, we commit sin ourselves and we lead others to do the same.
Not to act when our neighbor’s life or the foundation of the family is at stake, as in the case of not attempting to protect unborn children threatened by abortion or to protect the institution of marriage, is a particularly grave scandal of omission. Jesus had strong words to say about this kind of scandal (Mt 18:6): “Whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in me to sin, it would be better for him to have a great millstone hung around his neck and to be drowned in the depths of the sea.” Our Savior also said (Lk 17:1), “Things that cause sin will inevitably occur, but woe to the person through whom they occur.”
Non-negotiables?
For some years now it has become fashionable to speak about “a seamless garment” approach to the Church’s teaching on political and social issues. While there is merit to this approach, in that it rightly emphasizes the inner coherence and objective connectedness of these issues, there have been times when such an approach left the impression that these issues are of equal importance. Nothing could be farther from the truth.
Concern about this confusion led Pope John Paul II to write: “Above all, the common outcry, which is justly made on behalf of human rights — for example, the right to health, to home, to work, to family, to culture — is false and illusory if the right to life, the most basic and fundamental right and the condition for all other personal rights, is not defended with the maximum determination.” (Christifideles laici, #38)
Pope Benedict XVI shed further light on this matter in his address on March 30, 2006, to European politicians:
“As far as the Catholic Church is concerned, the principal focus of her interventions in the public arena is the protection and promotion of the dignity of the person, and she is thereby consciously drawing particular attention to principles which are not negotiable. Among these the following emerge clearly today:
Protection of life in all its stages, from the first moment of conception until natural death;
Recognition and promotion of the natural structure of the family — as a union between a man and a woman based on marriage — and its defense from attempts to make it juridically equivalent to radically different forms of union which in reality harm it and contribute to its destabilization, obscuring its particular character and its irreplaceable social role;
The protection of the rights of parents to educate their children.”
So why does a bishop write a little book titled “Catholics in the Public Square”? Because he wants to encourage the members of the Church, and indeed all people of good will, to be good citizens, to engage in public debate, to be well informed on key public issues, to vote, to put their faith into action.
This column originally appeared in the Oct. 19, 2006, edition of The Catholic Sun.
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
Confirmation 2009 for San Juan Deanery
Friday, May 29, 2009 7:00 pm – St. Mary Church in Farmington for the following parishes:
· St. Mary - Farmington
· Sacred Heart - Farmington
· San Juan - Kirtland
· Sacred Heart - Waterflow
· Christ the King – Shiprock
Saturday, May 30, 2009 10:00 am – St. Mary Church Bloomfield for the following parishes:
· St. Mary – Bloomfield
· Immaculate Conception – Cuba
· St. Joseph – Aztec
· Holy Trinity – Flora Vista
· St. Rose – Blanco
· St. Francis/St. Anthony – Lumberton/Dulce
· St. Mary - Farmington
· Sacred Heart - Farmington
· San Juan - Kirtland
· Sacred Heart - Waterflow
· Christ the King – Shiprock
Saturday, May 30, 2009 10:00 am – St. Mary Church Bloomfield for the following parishes:
· St. Mary – Bloomfield
· Immaculate Conception – Cuba
· St. Joseph – Aztec
· Holy Trinity – Flora Vista
· St. Rose – Blanco
· St. Francis/St. Anthony – Lumberton/Dulce
Monday, September 22, 2008
Change to Confirmation Schedule.
The scheduled Confirmation on May 30, 2009 at 10:00 am at Sacred Heart Church in Farmington has to be changed to another day and time due to a conflict with other parish activities. When the new date(s) and time(s) are determined, the Pastors of the San Juan Deanery will be notifed.
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
letter from Bishop Pelotte to the faithful of the Diocese of Gallup
My Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
“In the end, there are three things that last: faith and hope and love, and the greatest of these is love.” These words from the Sacred Scriptures (I Cor 13:13) fill my mind and heart as I give thanks to God for the privilege of serving as your bishop for the past 22 years. Our health does not last; our “jobs” do not last; our earthly plans do not last, no matter how good and worthwhile these may be. But faith and hope and love last. What a blessing to have been given these by God.
It was love that led me to Gallup and love that still unites me with you today: the love of God that comes to us in Christ, the love that is especially present in the Blessed Sacrament. This love will not diminish as I adjust to retirement and as you prepare to receive a new bishop through the providence of God and the choice of Pope Benedict XVI. Love never fails; no matter what comes, love endures.
I also praise God for the gift of the Catholic faith that we share. Times of transition test our faith and challenge our hope. Like Abraham, we must leave behind what is familiar and dear to us and must allow the Lord to lead us in ways unknown. Let us pray for one another at this time of transition for both you and me, that our faith in God may be strong. May each of us “Strengthen One Another” (Rom.14:19) as we go through these challenging times.
I want to say a special word of thanks to those who have collaborated so generously with me over the past 22 years, in particular my brother priests and deacons and our consecrated men and women religious. I shall always carry you in my heart. I am deeply grateful to you, the lay faithful of this local Church, to all of you who serve or have served on diocesan councils and parish councils and in the many ministries and services of the Church. Above all, I thank the married couples and parents for building up the Church through your faithful love of one another.
Faith, hope and love last, because they are from God. Put all your trust in him; He will not fail us. And know that you are in my prayers always.
Fraternally in Christ,
Most Rev. Donald E. Pelotte, SSS
Bishop Emeritus of Gallup
“In the end, there are three things that last: faith and hope and love, and the greatest of these is love.” These words from the Sacred Scriptures (I Cor 13:13) fill my mind and heart as I give thanks to God for the privilege of serving as your bishop for the past 22 years. Our health does not last; our “jobs” do not last; our earthly plans do not last, no matter how good and worthwhile these may be. But faith and hope and love last. What a blessing to have been given these by God.
It was love that led me to Gallup and love that still unites me with you today: the love of God that comes to us in Christ, the love that is especially present in the Blessed Sacrament. This love will not diminish as I adjust to retirement and as you prepare to receive a new bishop through the providence of God and the choice of Pope Benedict XVI. Love never fails; no matter what comes, love endures.
I also praise God for the gift of the Catholic faith that we share. Times of transition test our faith and challenge our hope. Like Abraham, we must leave behind what is familiar and dear to us and must allow the Lord to lead us in ways unknown. Let us pray for one another at this time of transition for both you and me, that our faith in God may be strong. May each of us “Strengthen One Another” (Rom.14:19) as we go through these challenging times.
I want to say a special word of thanks to those who have collaborated so generously with me over the past 22 years, in particular my brother priests and deacons and our consecrated men and women religious. I shall always carry you in my heart. I am deeply grateful to you, the lay faithful of this local Church, to all of you who serve or have served on diocesan councils and parish councils and in the many ministries and services of the Church. Above all, I thank the married couples and parents for building up the Church through your faithful love of one another.
Faith, hope and love last, because they are from God. Put all your trust in him; He will not fail us. And know that you are in my prayers always.
Fraternally in Christ,
Most Rev. Donald E. Pelotte, SSS
Bishop Emeritus of Gallup
Thursday, September 4, 2008
Confirmation Schedule 2009
A Confirmation Schedule proposal was requested by Bishop Olmsted to be presented for discussion and approval by the Bishop and the Diocesan Consultors. The following schedule was presented and approved at the August 28, 2008 meeting of the Diocesan Consultors. This schedule is made according to the expectation that Bishop Olmsted will still be the Apostolic Administrator. Should a new Ordinary be named beforehand, he will be free to perhaps add to this schedule, however, it is unlikely that he would change it. Bishop Olmsted and the Diocesan Consultors decided that it was necessary to have the schedule in place.
There will only be one Confirmation with Bishop Olmsted scheduled in each deanery. All pastors/administrators are asked to see that all who are to be confirmed in any given deanery make every effort to participate in the scheduled liturgies rather than to be confirmed by a delegate at another time.
1). Thursday, April 16, 2009 6:30 pm. St. Michaels, St. Michaels
2). Thursday, April 30, 2009 6:30 pm. St. Teresa, Grants.
3). Thursday, May 7, 2009 6:30 pm. St. Mary of the Angels, Pinetop.
4). Thursday, May 28, 2009 6:30 pm. OLO Guadalupe, Holbrook
5). Saturday, May 30, 2009 10:00 am. Sacred Heart, Farmington.
6). Suturday, May 30, 2009 5:15 pm. Sacred Heart Cathedral, Gallup.
There will only be one Confirmation with Bishop Olmsted scheduled in each deanery. All pastors/administrators are asked to see that all who are to be confirmed in any given deanery make every effort to participate in the scheduled liturgies rather than to be confirmed by a delegate at another time.
1). Thursday, April 16, 2009 6:30 pm. St. Michaels, St. Michaels
2). Thursday, April 30, 2009 6:30 pm. St. Teresa, Grants.
3). Thursday, May 7, 2009 6:30 pm. St. Mary of the Angels, Pinetop.
4). Thursday, May 28, 2009 6:30 pm. OLO Guadalupe, Holbrook
5). Saturday, May 30, 2009 10:00 am. Sacred Heart, Farmington.
6). Suturday, May 30, 2009 5:15 pm. Sacred Heart Cathedral, Gallup.
Monday, August 25, 2008
The Challenge of Faithful Citizenship
All are invited!
“The Challenge of Faithful Citizenship” 9 am – 2:30 pm, Sept. 27 at Sacred Heart Family Center. Presenters: Kathy Bowman, Navajo Nation Public Defender; Fr. Eduardo Espinoza, OFM, S. Francis, Gallup; S. Rose Marie Cecchini, Diocesan Office of Peace, Justice and Creation. Catechists can also pick up ideas to use in teaching presented by Barbara Kozeliski, and Mary Ann and Don Frank The day is based on the U.S. Bishops letter-“Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship” No cost. Potluck lunch at noon. Diocesan certificate of attendance will be given.
“The Challenge of Faithful Citizenship” 9 am – 2:30 pm, Sept. 27 at Sacred Heart Family Center. Presenters: Kathy Bowman, Navajo Nation Public Defender; Fr. Eduardo Espinoza, OFM, S. Francis, Gallup; S. Rose Marie Cecchini, Diocesan Office of Peace, Justice and Creation. Catechists can also pick up ideas to use in teaching presented by Barbara Kozeliski, and Mary Ann and Don Frank The day is based on the U.S. Bishops letter-“Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship” No cost. Potluck lunch at noon. Diocesan certificate of attendance will be given.
Thursday, August 7, 2008
VIRTUS - PROTECTING GOD'S CHILDREN
VIRTUS – Protecting God’s Children Safe Environment Training will be offered on Saturday, August 9, 2008
From 9:00 am to 12:00 pm at the Sacred Heart Cathedral Family Center in Gallup. Corner of Woodrow and Green.
For Registration phone 505-722-6644
From 9:00 am to 12:00 pm at the Sacred Heart Cathedral Family Center in Gallup. Corner of Woodrow and Green.
For Registration phone 505-722-6644
VIRTUS - Protecting God's Children
VIRTUS – Protecting God’s Children Safe Environment Training will be offered on Tuesday, August 12, 2008
From 7:00 pm until 9:00 pm at the San Damiano Center in Gallup on the corner of Maloney and 3rd.
For Registration phone 505-863-3145
From 7:00 pm until 9:00 pm at the San Damiano Center in Gallup on the corner of Maloney and 3rd.
For Registration phone 505-863-3145
Thursday, July 31, 2008
Statement from the Diocese of Gallup
****** STATEMENT *****
Diocese of GallupPastoral Center Office
P.O. Box 1338Gallup, New Mexico 87305
Contact: Deacon Timoteo Lujan, Chancellor; Lee Lamb, Communications DirectorPhone: 505.863.4406 (office) 505.409.5697 (cell)
E-mail: voicesw@gmail.com
Gallup Diocese Comments on Release of Bishop Pelotte Photos.
The Catholic faithful of our diocese—who have known and loved Bishop Donald Pelotte throughout his 22 years of service to New Mexico and beyond—continue their prayers for him during his ongoing recovery. The publication of the bishop's photos, taken without his consent while he lay in the hospital as a private citizen and medical patient, add unnecessary stress not only to the bishop, but to the people who have intimately loved him as their spiritual father. On the day of July 23, 2007, when Bishop Pelotte was admitted to a Gallup hospital, the physicians attending to him were responsible for his healing; the police who came out of procedure to question and photograph the bishop were there to determine the cause of his injuries; and I was there, as chancellor and as the bishop's spiritual brother to care for him. Let me make it clear that the Catholic Church lives out the Gospel with truth and integrity, and this includes this situation. We are not covering up—as some have alluded to—any information pertaining to the cause or nature of Bishop Pelotte's injuries. It is the responsibility of the emergency services in Gallup to investigate or determine that. Our job as a faithful Catholic people is to continue our spiritual support of our brother, Bishop Donald Pelotte. The only consolation we have in this whole tragic affair is that, like our Lord, Bishop Pelotte is being ridiculed and mistreated. He must surely be identifying closely with the experience of Jesus, whose wounds and nakedness were put on display by the Romans at the Crucifixion.
Deacon Timoteo Lujan
Chancellor and Assistantto the Bishop
Diocese of GallupPastoral Center Office
P.O. Box 1338Gallup, New Mexico 87305
Contact: Deacon Timoteo Lujan, Chancellor; Lee Lamb, Communications DirectorPhone: 505.863.4406 (office) 505.409.5697 (cell)
E-mail: voicesw@gmail.com
Gallup Diocese Comments on Release of Bishop Pelotte Photos.
The Catholic faithful of our diocese—who have known and loved Bishop Donald Pelotte throughout his 22 years of service to New Mexico and beyond—continue their prayers for him during his ongoing recovery. The publication of the bishop's photos, taken without his consent while he lay in the hospital as a private citizen and medical patient, add unnecessary stress not only to the bishop, but to the people who have intimately loved him as their spiritual father. On the day of July 23, 2007, when Bishop Pelotte was admitted to a Gallup hospital, the physicians attending to him were responsible for his healing; the police who came out of procedure to question and photograph the bishop were there to determine the cause of his injuries; and I was there, as chancellor and as the bishop's spiritual brother to care for him. Let me make it clear that the Catholic Church lives out the Gospel with truth and integrity, and this includes this situation. We are not covering up—as some have alluded to—any information pertaining to the cause or nature of Bishop Pelotte's injuries. It is the responsibility of the emergency services in Gallup to investigate or determine that. Our job as a faithful Catholic people is to continue our spiritual support of our brother, Bishop Donald Pelotte. The only consolation we have in this whole tragic affair is that, like our Lord, Bishop Pelotte is being ridiculed and mistreated. He must surely be identifying closely with the experience of Jesus, whose wounds and nakedness were put on display by the Romans at the Crucifixion.
Deacon Timoteo Lujan
Chancellor and Assistantto the Bishop
Monday, July 28, 2008
Diocese Comments on the Release of Bishop Donald Pelotte Medical Photos
Gallup (July 28, 2008) – We would like to make clear that the impetus for this civil lawsuit between the city of Gallup and Larry Barker, investigative reporter for KRQE, was to answer the question, Are police photos public records or not? Unfortunately, photos taken without the consent of a private citizen—Bishop Donald Pelotte—as a medical patient were used as the example to determine this case. Barker's attorney, Martin Esquivel, made the assertion early on that the city of Gallup's legal action against Barker "undermines the policy behind the Public Records Act that is the duty of public officials to provide people with the greatest information possible regarding governmental affairs." While Bishop Pelotte might be considered a public figure, he is not a public official—and his fall in his private residence last summer was not a governmental affair. Sadly, now that this case has been settled to determine the release of these photos, the question regarding the now use of the photos is to be determined by the media. At this time, the diocese would simply restate the appeal Bishop Thomas Olmsted made to David Pederson, the city attorney for Gallup, on March 16, 2008:
"…Nonetheless, because as I understand it, the Police Department authorized the taking of the photographs without Bishop Pelotte's consent and still possesses them, and out of concern for the personal and human dignity of Bishop Pelotte and his rights as a private citizen, especially his right to privacy, I appeal to the City of Gallup to protect the rights and dignity of Bishop Pelotte.. Given the significant contribution to the welfare of many people in the City of Gallup and beyond over the course of the past 20 years, I am concerned that Bishop Pelotte's good name not be harmed in anyway."
We are aware of the upcoming broadcast interview with Bishop Pelotte conducted by Larry Barker, and the diocese anticipates wider distribution of these photos in the media. Again, we respectfully ask those who are decision-makers within their organization to recognize the decades of service Bishop Pelotte gave to our communities, his dignity as a human being and spiritual leader—and respect his right to privacy.
Deacon Timoteo Lujan, Chancellor
Administrative Assistant to the Bishop
"…Nonetheless, because as I understand it, the Police Department authorized the taking of the photographs without Bishop Pelotte's consent and still possesses them, and out of concern for the personal and human dignity of Bishop Pelotte and his rights as a private citizen, especially his right to privacy, I appeal to the City of Gallup to protect the rights and dignity of Bishop Pelotte.. Given the significant contribution to the welfare of many people in the City of Gallup and beyond over the course of the past 20 years, I am concerned that Bishop Pelotte's good name not be harmed in anyway."
We are aware of the upcoming broadcast interview with Bishop Pelotte conducted by Larry Barker, and the diocese anticipates wider distribution of these photos in the media. Again, we respectfully ask those who are decision-makers within their organization to recognize the decades of service Bishop Pelotte gave to our communities, his dignity as a human being and spiritual leader—and respect his right to privacy.
Deacon Timoteo Lujan, Chancellor
Administrative Assistant to the Bishop
Friday, July 18, 2008
We are writing to inform you about some new and exciting features on the Faithful Citizenship Youth web site (www.faithfulcitizenship.org/youth)!
1) A new Video Quiz[C1] [C2] [C1]with Steve Angrisano is now posted in the video section. In it, Steve Angrisano, the songwriter, storyteller, and singer of the popular song, “Go Make a Difference” engages teens with questions about faithful citizenship. Rich in both substance and humor, the quiz is a great tool to help young Catholics have a great time while interacting with the important messages of Faithful Citizenship. Promote this quiz with teachers and youth ministry leaders for use with their groups as well as to young people to watch on their own initiative.
2) The Submit Your Photos[C3] [C4] [C2]section of the youth web site is now accepting pictures from Catholic young people to be featured in the Photo Gallery! The Photo Gallery exists to highlight individuals and groups of young people who are putting their faith in action through advocacy, lobbying, letter-writing, education, and other activities to advocate for and with the poor and vulnerable. A pre-written ad/bulletin announcement is attached to this email to send to parishes, schools, and list serves in your diocese.
Thank you for your help in getting the word out about these new resources in your dioceses, schools and parishes!
Joan RosenhauerAssociate DirectorJustice, Peace, & Human Development
United States Conference of Catholic Bishops 3211 Fourth Street, NEWashington, DC 20017(Ph.) 202-541-3381(Fax) 202-541-3339
jrosenhauer@usccb.org
Faithful Citizenship Youth Website Seeks Photos of Young Catholicsin Action!
Are you planning to take action in support of human life and dignity in your community? Be sure to take your camera with you! USCCB’s Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship Youth Site (www.faithfulcitizenship.org/youth) is seeking photos of young Catholics taking action as faithful citizens. Desired photo themes include efforts to advocate for the vulnerable (visiting or contacting your legislators, letter-writing campaigns, rallies, etc.) and education activities to teach others about issues of human life, justice and peace.
Chosen photos will be featured in the Photo Gallery at http://www.faithfulcitizenship.org/youth/action/photos. The Youth web site is a new initiative by the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) to reach out to young people with the messages of Faithful Citizenship, especially advocacy for justice. Please send your photos today to: jrauh@usccb.org.
[C1]
[C2]http://www.faithfulcitizenship.org/youth/quiz/video
[C3]
[C4]http://www.faithfulcitizenship.org/youth/action/photos
1) A new Video Quiz[C1] [C2] [C1]with Steve Angrisano is now posted in the video section. In it, Steve Angrisano, the songwriter, storyteller, and singer of the popular song, “Go Make a Difference” engages teens with questions about faithful citizenship. Rich in both substance and humor, the quiz is a great tool to help young Catholics have a great time while interacting with the important messages of Faithful Citizenship. Promote this quiz with teachers and youth ministry leaders for use with their groups as well as to young people to watch on their own initiative.
2) The Submit Your Photos[C3] [C4] [C2]section of the youth web site is now accepting pictures from Catholic young people to be featured in the Photo Gallery! The Photo Gallery exists to highlight individuals and groups of young people who are putting their faith in action through advocacy, lobbying, letter-writing, education, and other activities to advocate for and with the poor and vulnerable. A pre-written ad/bulletin announcement is attached to this email to send to parishes, schools, and list serves in your diocese.
Thank you for your help in getting the word out about these new resources in your dioceses, schools and parishes!
Joan RosenhauerAssociate DirectorJustice, Peace, & Human Development
United States Conference of Catholic Bishops 3211 Fourth Street, NEWashington, DC 20017(Ph.) 202-541-3381(Fax) 202-541-3339
jrosenhauer@usccb.org
Faithful Citizenship Youth Website Seeks Photos of Young Catholicsin Action!
Are you planning to take action in support of human life and dignity in your community? Be sure to take your camera with you! USCCB’s Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship Youth Site (www.faithfulcitizenship.org/youth) is seeking photos of young Catholics taking action as faithful citizens. Desired photo themes include efforts to advocate for the vulnerable (visiting or contacting your legislators, letter-writing campaigns, rallies, etc.) and education activities to teach others about issues of human life, justice and peace.
Chosen photos will be featured in the Photo Gallery at http://www.faithfulcitizenship.org/youth/action/photos. The Youth web site is a new initiative by the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) to reach out to young people with the messages of Faithful Citizenship, especially advocacy for justice. Please send your photos today to: jrauh@usccb.org.
[C1]
[C2]http://www.faithfulcitizenship.org/youth/quiz/video
[C3]
[C4]http://www.faithfulcitizenship.org/youth/action/photos
Friday, July 11, 2008
Madonna House protests honor given to Canadian abortionist
Order of Canada to be Returned Publicly Tuesday
Peaceful Visit to Rideau Hall For Group Representing Madonna House Founder, Catherine Doherty
OTTAWA (July 7, 2008) – Representatives from Madonna House, a Catholic community based in Combermere, Ontario, will make the journey to Ottawa Tuesday morning to return the Order of Canada medal awarded to founder, Catherine Doherty. Madonna House has a community in the Diocese of Gallup in Winslow, Arizona.
The move is in response to the awarding of one of Canada’s highest honours to Dr. Henry Morgentauler, as announced by the Governor General’s Office on July 1, 2008.
Catherine Doherty (August 15, 1896 – December 14, 1985) was a pioneer of social justice and an internationally acclaimed speaker. In addition to founding the community of Madonna House, she was a prolific writer and best-selling author of dozens of books. She was awarded the Order of Canada in 1976 in recognition of “a lifetime of devoted services to the underprivileged of many nationalities, both in Canada and abroad.” Her cause for canonization as a saint was opened by Bishop Brendan O’Brien, then bishop of the diocese of Pembroke, Ontario, in 2000.
Fr. David May, one of the three directors of Madonna House, commented on the decision to return the medal to the Governor General:
“Catherine Doherty was honoured to receive this award in 1976. She exemplified what the Order of Canada should be about: an individual committed to strengthening the nation by her contribution to the vulnerable and the marginalized. It is only after much prayer and consultation with our community, as well as with heavy hearts, that we are undertaking this action. The Order has been devalued in recent days, and we are confident that Catherine is spiritually present with us, affirming this gesture of love for our country and for the values which alone can sustain it. Without absolute respect for the gift of life, no society can survive.”
Members of the Madonna House community will gather at the entrance to Rideau Hall to present in a symbolic gesture a letter to the Governor General, and will return the Order of Canada pin on Tuesday, July 8, 2008, at 11 a.m. Media are invited to attend, and representatives of the community will be available for interviews following the return of the medal.
Madonna House, founded in 1947 by Catherine Doherty and her husband, Eddie, is a community of more than 200 laymen, women, and priests dedicated to loving and serving Christ through promises of poverty, chastity and obedience. Each of the community’s missions has a distinct mandate, from offering soup kitchens to places of retreat. All operate in a spirit of prayer, openness, and fellowship. In addition to the original community in Combermere, Ontario, there are 18 field houses (missions) in seven countries around the world.
Additional resources on the life of Catherine Doherty and the Madonna House Apostolate can be found by visiting: www.madonnahouse.org or www.catherinedoherty.org
MEDIA CONTACT: Susanne Stubbs or Larry Klein—Madonna House (613) 756-3713
combermere@madonnahouse.org
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
Year of St. Paul --- June, 20, 2008 - June 29, 2009
Dear brothers and sisters in Christ,
Failure can’t do it. Cancer can’t do it. Addiction can’t do it. Depression can’t do it. Nothing can do it – do what? Nothing can separate us from the love of God (Cf. Rom 8:31-39). We celebrate the Year of Saint Paul to deepen our conviction about truths of faith like this that are recorded by this great Apostle to the Gentiles and that undergird our hope.
Pope Benedict XVI has called us to begin this yearlong celebration on the Vigil of Sts. Peter and Paul, June 28, 2008. During this year, our Holy Father invites us to strengthen our love for the word of God as a way to honor the Apostle who was unsurpassed in zeal for proclaiming the Gospel. He also invites us to pray and work for unity among all the baptized, recalling how St. Paul constantly pleaded for reconciliation among the early converts to the Christian faith.
This Year that marks twenty centuries since the birth of St. Paul will be celebrated throughout the world and especially in Rome where he was martyred, buried and honored with the magnificent Basilica of St. Paul Outside-the-Walls. Pope Benedict also encourages each local Diocese to enter fully into the graces of the Holy Year. Here in the Diocese of Gallup, we plan to do so in the following ways:
1. I have designated four Churches as places of pilgrimage in our Diocese:
· Sacred Heart Cathedral in Gallup
· St. Paul’s Parish in Crownpoint
· St. Peter’s Parish in Springerville
· Sacred Heart Parish in Farmington
2. I also am establishing the following as days when a Plenary Indulgence may be obtained by making a pilgrimage to these churches and fulfilling the conditions required by the Church:
· June 28 and 29, 2008 – Vigil and Solemnity of Sts. Peter and Paul
· January 25, 2009 – Conversion of St. Paul
· April 19, 2009 - Divine Mercy Sunday
· June 19, 2009 – Solemnity of the Sacred Heart of Jesus
· June 28-29, 2009 – Vigil and Solemnity of Sts. Peter and Paul
3. The conditions required for obtaining a plenary indulgence are the following: Sacramental Confession within a week of the pilgrimage, Reception of Holy Communion, Prayers for the intentions of the Pope (such as one Our Father and one Hail Mary), a spirit of total detachment from any inclination to sin, and a desire to join spiritually in a jubilee celebration in honor of St. Paul. In addition to the special intentions each person brings to this pilgrimage, I ask you to pray and offer sacrifices for the following intentions:
· for the unity of all Christians,
· for an increase of vocations to the priesthood and religious life in our diocese, and
· for our new bishop.
A Plenary Indulgence is a special gift offered by God through the Church to help us attain purity of heart and holiness of life. According to the Catechism of the Catholic Church (#1471), an indulgence is “the remission before God of the temporal punishment due to sin whose guilt has already been forgiven.” It is best understood in light of Jesus’ promise to be with His Church always and His readiness to provide all we need to have our sins forgiven and to be restored to full loving union with God. As Jesus said (Jn 15:5), “I am the vine, you are the branches. He who lives in me and I in him will produce abundantly, for apart from me you can do nothing.”
In the Year of St. Paul, let us gladly join with our Holy Father and with fellow Christians around the world in seeking deeper conversion and holiness of life, in imitating the evangelizing zeal of St. Paul, and in loving Christ with an undivided heart.
Sincerely yours in Christ,
+Thomas J. Olmsted
Apostolic Administrator of Gallup
Failure can’t do it. Cancer can’t do it. Addiction can’t do it. Depression can’t do it. Nothing can do it – do what? Nothing can separate us from the love of God (Cf. Rom 8:31-39). We celebrate the Year of Saint Paul to deepen our conviction about truths of faith like this that are recorded by this great Apostle to the Gentiles and that undergird our hope.
Pope Benedict XVI has called us to begin this yearlong celebration on the Vigil of Sts. Peter and Paul, June 28, 2008. During this year, our Holy Father invites us to strengthen our love for the word of God as a way to honor the Apostle who was unsurpassed in zeal for proclaiming the Gospel. He also invites us to pray and work for unity among all the baptized, recalling how St. Paul constantly pleaded for reconciliation among the early converts to the Christian faith.
This Year that marks twenty centuries since the birth of St. Paul will be celebrated throughout the world and especially in Rome where he was martyred, buried and honored with the magnificent Basilica of St. Paul Outside-the-Walls. Pope Benedict also encourages each local Diocese to enter fully into the graces of the Holy Year. Here in the Diocese of Gallup, we plan to do so in the following ways:
1. I have designated four Churches as places of pilgrimage in our Diocese:
· Sacred Heart Cathedral in Gallup
· St. Paul’s Parish in Crownpoint
· St. Peter’s Parish in Springerville
· Sacred Heart Parish in Farmington
2. I also am establishing the following as days when a Plenary Indulgence may be obtained by making a pilgrimage to these churches and fulfilling the conditions required by the Church:
· June 28 and 29, 2008 – Vigil and Solemnity of Sts. Peter and Paul
· January 25, 2009 – Conversion of St. Paul
· April 19, 2009 - Divine Mercy Sunday
· June 19, 2009 – Solemnity of the Sacred Heart of Jesus
· June 28-29, 2009 – Vigil and Solemnity of Sts. Peter and Paul
3. The conditions required for obtaining a plenary indulgence are the following: Sacramental Confession within a week of the pilgrimage, Reception of Holy Communion, Prayers for the intentions of the Pope (such as one Our Father and one Hail Mary), a spirit of total detachment from any inclination to sin, and a desire to join spiritually in a jubilee celebration in honor of St. Paul. In addition to the special intentions each person brings to this pilgrimage, I ask you to pray and offer sacrifices for the following intentions:
· for the unity of all Christians,
· for an increase of vocations to the priesthood and religious life in our diocese, and
· for our new bishop.
A Plenary Indulgence is a special gift offered by God through the Church to help us attain purity of heart and holiness of life. According to the Catechism of the Catholic Church (#1471), an indulgence is “the remission before God of the temporal punishment due to sin whose guilt has already been forgiven.” It is best understood in light of Jesus’ promise to be with His Church always and His readiness to provide all we need to have our sins forgiven and to be restored to full loving union with God. As Jesus said (Jn 15:5), “I am the vine, you are the branches. He who lives in me and I in him will produce abundantly, for apart from me you can do nothing.”
In the Year of St. Paul, let us gladly join with our Holy Father and with fellow Christians around the world in seeking deeper conversion and holiness of life, in imitating the evangelizing zeal of St. Paul, and in loving Christ with an undivided heart.
Sincerely yours in Christ,
+Thomas J. Olmsted
Apostolic Administrator of Gallup
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
New Diocesan Web-Site
"The diocese has launched a new Web site that we hope will better spread the good news and work that occurs within our diocese each day. Please visit the new site at www.dioceseofgallup.org, but also note that it will take us within a month's time to work out all the errors and possible missing links that come with launching a new site. If you have content suggestions or would like to submit text for our new site, contact Lee Lamb at 505-863-4406 or voicesw@gmail.com. We hope this work-in-progress will help you access information more readily and efficiently."
Wednesday, May 7, 2008
Prayer for a new bishop
Bishop Olmsted would like the following prayer used throughout the diocese regularly until the Holy Father appoints a successor to Bishop Pelotte. It should be prayed by the whole congregation at all Sunday Masses, perhaps after the Prayers of the Faithful –or- at the end of Mass. Schools and all other institutions and agencies of the diocese are asked to incorporate this into their regular prayer.
Prayer for a
new bishop for the Diocese of Gallup
Heavenly Father, Your Son Our Lord Jesus Christ sent Peter and the Apostles to proclaim the Good News of the Kingdom of God. In our Holy Father, Benedict XVI, St. Peter is among us still. Together with all the Bishops, the successors to the Apostles, the Church continues your work of sanctification and evangelization.
God Our Father, give us faith, confidence and trust as Pope Benedict discerns who best to come to the Diocese of Gallup to be our new bishop, our new shepherd and spiritual father.
We the faithful of the Diocese of Gallup come to you in the sure and certain hope that Christ the Good Shepherd will be made present to us in our new bishop.
Come Holy Spirit, hear and answer our prayer.
Prayer for a
new bishop for the Diocese of Gallup
Heavenly Father, Your Son Our Lord Jesus Christ sent Peter and the Apostles to proclaim the Good News of the Kingdom of God. In our Holy Father, Benedict XVI, St. Peter is among us still. Together with all the Bishops, the successors to the Apostles, the Church continues your work of sanctification and evangelization.
God Our Father, give us faith, confidence and trust as Pope Benedict discerns who best to come to the Diocese of Gallup to be our new bishop, our new shepherd and spiritual father.
We the faithful of the Diocese of Gallup come to you in the sure and certain hope that Christ the Good Shepherd will be made present to us in our new bishop.
Come Holy Spirit, hear and answer our prayer.
Monday, May 5, 2008
VIRTUS PROGRAMS IN THE DIOCESE OF GALLUP
Sister Mary Thurlough DC
Administrator/Coordinator 505-722-4407 (has facilitators manual)
Sister Kathleen Driscoll DC 505-722-4407---- - Facilitator (shares manual with S.M.)
Sister Maureen Farrar ASC 505-786-5376
Crown Point area of New Mexico--- Facilitator (has facilitator manual)
Lowell Jensen 505-722-6089
Gallup Catholic High School---Facilitator (has facilitator manual)
Don and Mary Ann Frank 505-733-2243 (cell-505-713-4051)
Tohatchi, NM------- Facilitators (share facilitator manual)
Jim and Debe Betts 928-367-0060 (Cell 928-242-2572)
St. Mary of Angels Pinetop, AZ Facilitators (share facilitator manual)
Beverly Cloud 928-733-2243, 928-367-2087
Pinetop, AZ------- Facilitator (has facilitator Manual)
Erick Begay 505-520-8758
Christ the King, Shiprock, NM-------Facilitator (has facilitator Manual)
Valerie Gomez St. Francis school Lumberton 505-759-3252, 505-759-3703
(Facilitators manual)
Orla Lybrook (principal Sacred Heart School, Farmington 505-325-7152
(Facilitator manual Orla is now an administrator of the program in the Farmington etc. area and can train facilitators, set up programs and contact Virtus as I do)
Sister Sara Gomez OSU
DRE Aztec
505-334-8869 (W. 505 334-6535)
(Facilitator manual)
Sister Mary Rogers 928-283-5391 (h 928-283-4705) and Harriet Brown (Navajo) Mon. Dec. 10
St. Jude’s Parish
Tuba City, AZ
(Shared Facilitator manual)
Administrator/Coordinator 505-722-4407 (has facilitators manual)
Sister Kathleen Driscoll DC 505-722-4407---- - Facilitator (shares manual with S.M.)
Sister Maureen Farrar ASC 505-786-5376
Crown Point area of New Mexico--- Facilitator (has facilitator manual)
Lowell Jensen 505-722-6089
Gallup Catholic High School---Facilitator (has facilitator manual)
Don and Mary Ann Frank 505-733-2243 (cell-505-713-4051)
Tohatchi, NM------- Facilitators (share facilitator manual)
Jim and Debe Betts 928-367-0060 (Cell 928-242-2572)
St. Mary of Angels Pinetop, AZ Facilitators (share facilitator manual)
Beverly Cloud 928-733-2243, 928-367-2087
Pinetop, AZ------- Facilitator (has facilitator Manual)
Erick Begay 505-520-8758
Christ the King, Shiprock, NM-------Facilitator (has facilitator Manual)
Valerie Gomez St. Francis school Lumberton 505-759-3252, 505-759-3703
(Facilitators manual)
Orla Lybrook (principal Sacred Heart School, Farmington 505-325-7152
(Facilitator manual Orla is now an administrator of the program in the Farmington etc. area and can train facilitators, set up programs and contact Virtus as I do)
Sister Sara Gomez OSU
DRE Aztec
505-334-8869 (W. 505 334-6535)
(Facilitator manual)
Sister Mary Rogers 928-283-5391 (h 928-283-4705) and Harriet Brown (Navajo) Mon. Dec. 10
St. Jude’s Parish
Tuba City, AZ
(Shared Facilitator manual)
Practical Things the Whole Parish Can Do to Promote Vocations
A Priest can:
P reach about how much he loves being a priest, and the need for every Catholic to help
foster vocations to the priesthood.
R each out to home-school families to provide materials (DVD’s, posters etc. from the
vocations office) that help develop an openness to vocations.
E ncourage the sick and homebound in the parish to pray for vocations, Extraordinary
ministers can provide them with prayer cards (available from the vocations office).
A ssign prayers for vocations as a penance in Confession, when it would be appropriate
(hand them a prayer card).
C ommit the parish to fostering vocations by incorporating it into the parish mission
statement.
H old a vocations day or mission in the parish. (The vocations office will help with
materials, outlines, and if we’re able, a priest to conduct the mission.)
Other suggested practices:
-Offer petition prayers for vocations as part of the Liturgy of the Hours.
-Offer an “adoration for vocations” holy hour in the parish during the week of Prayer for
vocations, or anytime.
-Offer the Mass for priestly vocations (various needs and occasions #8) when appropriate
on Weekdays of Ordinary time.
Secretaries can:
Formulate prayers for vocations for the Petitions used in the Sunday Mass.
I nclude announcements, prayers and ideas related to vocations in the bulletin.
Leave vocations materials, prayer cards, posters etc. in the office and entry to the
Church (available from the vocations office.)
Employ the use of the toll free number of the Vocations Office in the parish bulletin.
The D.R.E. can:
Develop a mailing list for college students from the parish. Find out where the high
school graduates will be going next year to maintain contact and send them a copy of
the vocations news letter.
Request visits from Priests and Religious to talk to students about vocations.
Encourage vocations by integrating awareness into all of the catechetical training in the
parish.
Teachers and Catechists can:
Conduct a brain storming session with other teachers, parishioners and students. Send
a list of the best ideas to the vocations office.
Consider asking the first Communion class write letters to the young men in the
Confirmation class asking them to consider the priesthood, and offering prayers for
them.
Develop a prayer for vocations to be used at the beginning of every class.
Parishioners can:
Participate in “Adoration for Vocations” holy hours.
Attend vocation days and missions in the parish.
Request a Mass for the intention of priestly vocations.
Invite young men to consider the priesthood.
Start a Serra Club or similar group that promotes priestly vocations.
Help the Knights of Columbus in their vocations efforts.
P reach about how much he loves being a priest, and the need for every Catholic to help
foster vocations to the priesthood.
R each out to home-school families to provide materials (DVD’s, posters etc. from the
vocations office) that help develop an openness to vocations.
E ncourage the sick and homebound in the parish to pray for vocations, Extraordinary
ministers can provide them with prayer cards (available from the vocations office).
A ssign prayers for vocations as a penance in Confession, when it would be appropriate
(hand them a prayer card).
C ommit the parish to fostering vocations by incorporating it into the parish mission
statement.
H old a vocations day or mission in the parish. (The vocations office will help with
materials, outlines, and if we’re able, a priest to conduct the mission.)
Other suggested practices:
-Offer petition prayers for vocations as part of the Liturgy of the Hours.
-Offer an “adoration for vocations” holy hour in the parish during the week of Prayer for
vocations, or anytime.
-Offer the Mass for priestly vocations (various needs and occasions #8) when appropriate
on Weekdays of Ordinary time.
Secretaries can:
Formulate prayers for vocations for the Petitions used in the Sunday Mass.
I nclude announcements, prayers and ideas related to vocations in the bulletin.
Leave vocations materials, prayer cards, posters etc. in the office and entry to the
Church (available from the vocations office.)
Employ the use of the toll free number of the Vocations Office in the parish bulletin.
The D.R.E. can:
Develop a mailing list for college students from the parish. Find out where the high
school graduates will be going next year to maintain contact and send them a copy of
the vocations news letter.
Request visits from Priests and Religious to talk to students about vocations.
Encourage vocations by integrating awareness into all of the catechetical training in the
parish.
Teachers and Catechists can:
Conduct a brain storming session with other teachers, parishioners and students. Send
a list of the best ideas to the vocations office.
Consider asking the first Communion class write letters to the young men in the
Confirmation class asking them to consider the priesthood, and offering prayers for
them.
Develop a prayer for vocations to be used at the beginning of every class.
Parishioners can:
Participate in “Adoration for Vocations” holy hours.
Attend vocation days and missions in the parish.
Request a Mass for the intention of priestly vocations.
Invite young men to consider the priesthood.
Start a Serra Club or similar group that promotes priestly vocations.
Help the Knights of Columbus in their vocations efforts.
Thursday, May 1, 2008
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
Message from the Metropolitan Archbishop
“The faithful of the Archdiocese of Santa Fe and I are grateful for Bishop Pelotte’s many years of service as Bishop of Gallup and pray for his continued healing and to pray for Pope Benedict XVI as he prepares to appoint Bishop Pelotte’s successor.” Archbishop Michael J. Sheehan
Bishop Pelotte Takes Medical Retirement
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
Today, April 30, 2008, the Holy See announced that His Holiness, Pope Benedict XVI has granted Bishop Donald Pelotte’s request to retire as Bishop of the Diocese of Gallup.
As you may remember, Bishop Pelotte suffered severe injuries in a fall at his home in Gallup on July 23, 2007. Despite receiving medical treatment in Phoenix, Houston and Fort Lauderdale, he was unable to gain a full recovery. After an effort to resume his ministry, it became clear that further medical care and rehabilitation was needed. Therefore, in mid-December 2007 Bishop Pelotte requested a medical leave of absence to focus all his energies on achieving a full recovery. After several months of continued care, Bishop Pelotte decided to request retirement for reasons of health.
Pope John Paul II named Bishop Pelotte Coadjutor of Gallup in 1986; and he succeeded Bishop Hastrich upon his retirement in March of 1990. Until a successor is named, I shall continue to serve as Apostolic Administrator sede plena of the Diocese, a pastoral responsibility that I have been happy to fulfill since January 3 of this year.
Let us all continue to pray for Bishop Pelotte as he begins his retirement, with gratitude to God for all the many graces the Lord has bestowed on our Diocese through his episcopal ministry. Let us also pray for the Holy Father as he begins the process of choosing our next Bishop.
With prayers and full confidence in the Holy Spirit, I remain,
Sincerely Yours in Christ,
+Thomas J. Olmsted
Apostolic Administrator sede plena
Diocese of Gallup
Today, April 30, 2008, the Holy See announced that His Holiness, Pope Benedict XVI has granted Bishop Donald Pelotte’s request to retire as Bishop of the Diocese of Gallup.
As you may remember, Bishop Pelotte suffered severe injuries in a fall at his home in Gallup on July 23, 2007. Despite receiving medical treatment in Phoenix, Houston and Fort Lauderdale, he was unable to gain a full recovery. After an effort to resume his ministry, it became clear that further medical care and rehabilitation was needed. Therefore, in mid-December 2007 Bishop Pelotte requested a medical leave of absence to focus all his energies on achieving a full recovery. After several months of continued care, Bishop Pelotte decided to request retirement for reasons of health.
Pope John Paul II named Bishop Pelotte Coadjutor of Gallup in 1986; and he succeeded Bishop Hastrich upon his retirement in March of 1990. Until a successor is named, I shall continue to serve as Apostolic Administrator sede plena of the Diocese, a pastoral responsibility that I have been happy to fulfill since January 3 of this year.
Let us all continue to pray for Bishop Pelotte as he begins his retirement, with gratitude to God for all the many graces the Lord has bestowed on our Diocese through his episcopal ministry. Let us also pray for the Holy Father as he begins the process of choosing our next Bishop.
With prayers and full confidence in the Holy Spirit, I remain,
Sincerely Yours in Christ,
+Thomas J. Olmsted
Apostolic Administrator sede plena
Diocese of Gallup
Wednesday, April 2, 2008
From Father Matthew Keller, New Vocations Director
When one of my best friends was named to be the vocations director in his diocese, I began to write down every idea that I had which I thought might help promote vocations to the priesthood. I came up with 100 of them. I don’t know if the ideas themselves turned out to be very helpful or not, but this exercise sure helped me to begin thinking, praying and participating in the vocations effort (and examining my conscience!). It seems to me that our task has at least two major aspects. The first is a response to Jesus’ command to “ask the master of the harvest to send out laborers for the harvest.” (Mt. 9:38). Simply put, we have to pray. Here’s one of the prayers that the Church gives us in the Mass for priestly vocations. “Lord, accept our prayers and gifts. Give the Church more priests and keep them faithful in their love and service. Grant this in the name of Jesus the Lord.” I believe that every Catholic can and should pray this prayer or something like it regularly out of a spirit of obedience to Christ and love for the Church. Perhaps you can ask your parish priest to offer a Mass for the intention of an increase in priestly vocations (idea #97).
The second aspect of the effort is to help the men who are being called to hear God’s voice, respond to it and persevere in it. This means helping to create an “atmosphere” where the priesthood is presented as a desirable possibility for young Catholic men by the parents at home, by teachers at CCD and in Catholic schools, and by priests at Mass.
I am hoping to hear from anyone who has ideas and suggestions that they think will help more men to hear the call to be worthy ministers for His altars, and gentle but ardent servants of the gospel. (cf. the Mass for priestly vocations).
Contact information: Fr. Matthew Keller P.O. box 1338 Gallup, NM 87305 (505) 863-4406 email- gallupvocationsoffice@gmail.com
The second aspect of the effort is to help the men who are being called to hear God’s voice, respond to it and persevere in it. This means helping to create an “atmosphere” where the priesthood is presented as a desirable possibility for young Catholic men by the parents at home, by teachers at CCD and in Catholic schools, and by priests at Mass.
I am hoping to hear from anyone who has ideas and suggestions that they think will help more men to hear the call to be worthy ministers for His altars, and gentle but ardent servants of the gospel. (cf. the Mass for priestly vocations).
Contact information: Fr. Matthew Keller P.O. box 1338 Gallup, NM 87305 (505) 863-4406 email- gallupvocationsoffice@gmail.com
Friday, February 22, 2008
"Life is Defended"
New Mexico Conference of Catholic Bishops
Vigorously Defend Dignity of Life Once Again
Embryonic Stem Cell Research Bill Killed in NM
ALBUQUERQUE - Friday, February 22, 2008-- IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Life at its utmost vulnerable state has once again been successfully defended. For the second year in a row, the bill to allow embryonic stem cell research in the State of New Mexico has been defeated. The New Mexico Conference of Catholic Bishops (NMCCB) vigorously defended the consistent ethic of life and opposed the proposed 2008 legislation by Governor Bill Richardson and Senator John Ryan to make embryonic stem cell research legal in New Mexico. The NMCCB (Most Rev. Michael J. Sheehan, Archbishop of Santa Fe; Most Rev. Ricardo Ramirez, Bishop of Las Cruces; Most Rev. Thomas J. Olmsted, Apostolic Administrator of Gallup; and Mr. Allen Sanchez, NMCCB Executive Director) tirelessly lobbied legislators to defeat Senate Bill 23 during the recent 2008 New Mexico Legislative Session.
Senate Bill 23 would have legalized the funding of embryonic stem cell research at the University of New Mexico. The proposed Bill would have specifically granted the State the authority to take into its possession live human embryos, and the authority to decide when and how to terminate life. On February 14 at 12:00 p.m., Senate Bill 23 died on the House Judiciary Committee’s desk. Embryonic stem cell research no longer looms on the horizon, at least until the next legislative session.
Archbishop Michael Sheehan and Bishop Ricardo RamÃrez testified before the Senate Consumers and Public Affairs Committee reiterating the Church stance – embryos are human life. The proponents of the legislation argued that the targeted embryos from in vitro fertilization clinics would never become human life; therefore, it was acceptable to use them for stem cell research.
Senate Bill 23 passed two Senate Committees and passed out of the Senate 20 to 18. In the House of Representatives, the bill passed the House Consumers and Public Affairs Committee. It was only during the final Committee meeting, the House Judiciary Committee, that enough legislators committed to table the motion. The Committee sat on the SB23 for a week allowing the clock to kill it.
At the close of the Session some reporters compared SB 23 to a run away train. The proposed legislation was derailed by the legislators’ strong commitment to the value of human life. This is the second year that the Governor has attempted to run embryonic stem cell research through the legislature. The 2007 bill also died in the House Judiciary Committee.
Through the NMCCB, the Bishops of New Mexico lobby legislators and teach on moral and ethical issues. The Bishops are committed to a consistent ethic of life. Contact: Allen Sanchez 505.319.3334—END
Vigorously Defend Dignity of Life Once Again
Embryonic Stem Cell Research Bill Killed in NM
ALBUQUERQUE - Friday, February 22, 2008-- IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Life at its utmost vulnerable state has once again been successfully defended. For the second year in a row, the bill to allow embryonic stem cell research in the State of New Mexico has been defeated. The New Mexico Conference of Catholic Bishops (NMCCB) vigorously defended the consistent ethic of life and opposed the proposed 2008 legislation by Governor Bill Richardson and Senator John Ryan to make embryonic stem cell research legal in New Mexico. The NMCCB (Most Rev. Michael J. Sheehan, Archbishop of Santa Fe; Most Rev. Ricardo Ramirez, Bishop of Las Cruces; Most Rev. Thomas J. Olmsted, Apostolic Administrator of Gallup; and Mr. Allen Sanchez, NMCCB Executive Director) tirelessly lobbied legislators to defeat Senate Bill 23 during the recent 2008 New Mexico Legislative Session.
Senate Bill 23 would have legalized the funding of embryonic stem cell research at the University of New Mexico. The proposed Bill would have specifically granted the State the authority to take into its possession live human embryos, and the authority to decide when and how to terminate life. On February 14 at 12:00 p.m., Senate Bill 23 died on the House Judiciary Committee’s desk. Embryonic stem cell research no longer looms on the horizon, at least until the next legislative session.
Archbishop Michael Sheehan and Bishop Ricardo RamÃrez testified before the Senate Consumers and Public Affairs Committee reiterating the Church stance – embryos are human life. The proponents of the legislation argued that the targeted embryos from in vitro fertilization clinics would never become human life; therefore, it was acceptable to use them for stem cell research.
Senate Bill 23 passed two Senate Committees and passed out of the Senate 20 to 18. In the House of Representatives, the bill passed the House Consumers and Public Affairs Committee. It was only during the final Committee meeting, the House Judiciary Committee, that enough legislators committed to table the motion. The Committee sat on the SB23 for a week allowing the clock to kill it.
At the close of the Session some reporters compared SB 23 to a run away train. The proposed legislation was derailed by the legislators’ strong commitment to the value of human life. This is the second year that the Governor has attempted to run embryonic stem cell research through the legislature. The 2007 bill also died in the House Judiciary Committee.
Through the NMCCB, the Bishops of New Mexico lobby legislators and teach on moral and ethical issues. The Bishops are committed to a consistent ethic of life. Contact: Allen Sanchez 505.319.3334—END
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
Faithful Citizenship - 2008
We are pleased to announce the launch of an exciting new 2008 Faithful Citizenship Web Site (www.faithfulcitizenship.org) with lots of resources for individuals, parishes, and other groups. We hope you will find it helpful as you share the message of Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship in your parishes, schools, dioceses and other organizations.
You will find a wide range of resources for prayer and worship, educational programs, family discussions, social concerns and pro-life committees, and many other groups and ministries.
The Faithful Citizenship web site will regularly be updated as new materials are added. In particular, the temporary Spanish page will soon be replaced by a complete Faithful Citizenship web site in Spanish. The temporary “young Catholics” page will be replaced by a lively section specifically for youth and young adults that will have interactive activities, podcasts, streaming videos, and other resources and activities. We will keep you informed as these changes are made.
Thank you for all you are doing to help spread the word about Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship.
You will find a wide range of resources for prayer and worship, educational programs, family discussions, social concerns and pro-life committees, and many other groups and ministries.
The Faithful Citizenship web site will regularly be updated as new materials are added. In particular, the temporary Spanish page will soon be replaced by a complete Faithful Citizenship web site in Spanish. The temporary “young Catholics” page will be replaced by a lively section specifically for youth and young adults that will have interactive activities, podcasts, streaming videos, and other resources and activities. We will keep you informed as these changes are made.
Thank you for all you are doing to help spread the word about Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship.
Thursday, January 3, 2008
Bishop Pelotte given medical leave; Bishop Olmsted named Apostolic Administrator
DIOCESE OF GALLUP
Pastoral Center Office
P.O. Box 1338
Gallup, NM 87305
January 3, 2008
Contact: Matt Doyle
505-593-3997
Bishop Pelotte given medical leave; Phoenix bishop named Apostolic Administrator
On behalf of the Holy Father Pope Benedict XVI, the Papal Nuncio to the United States, Archbishop Pietro Sambi, has notified Bishop Donald E. Pelotte, SSS of the Diocese of Gallup that he has been granted a one-year medical leave of absence. The leave is effective immediately. Archbishop Sambi has also notified Bishop Thomas J. Olmsted of the Diocese of Phoenix that he will serve as apostolic administrator of the Diocese of Gallup.
Bishop Pelotte, 62, suffered severe injures in a fall July 23 at his home in Gallup and has been unable to recover as quickly and completely as had been hoped. The ill-effects of the injuries were cited by Bishop Pelotte in his letter to the Holy See seeking the medical leave of absence.
After receiving treatment in Arizona, Texas and Florida, Bishop Pelotte returned to Gallup on Sept. 21. It was hoped at the time that a return to more familiar surroundings would enhance the bishop’s recovery, but that did not happen. Bishop Pelotte left Gallup again on Dec. 13 for further medical treatment.
Bishop Pelotte was coadjutor bishop of the Diocese of Gallup from 1986 until 1990. With the retirement of Bishop Jerome Hastrich, Bishop Pelotte became the third bishop of the diocese in 1990.
A native of Waterville, Maine, Bishop Pelotte is a member of the Congregation of the Blessed Sacrament and received a Ph.D. in Theology from Fordham University in 1975.
Bishop Pelotte’s father was a member of the Abenaki tribe. When he was ordained coadjutor and then bishop of Gallup, it marked the first time a Native American bishop had served a diocese in the United States.
Bishop Olmsted was ordained a priest of the Diocese of Lincoln, Neb. in 1973. He was installed as the Bishop of the Diocese of Phoenix, December 20, 2003. Prior to his arrival in Phoenix he served as Bishop of Wichita, Kan. after being ordained coadjutor bishop on April 20, 1999. Before serving in Wichita, he served as the rector / president of the Pontifical College Josephinum, a Catholic seminary in Columbus, Ohio.
Bishop Olmsted lived in Italy for more than 16 years. He received a Masters of Arts in Theology, a Doctorate in Canon Law and served for nine years in the Secretariat of State of the Holy See. While serving the Holy See he lived at the Pontifical North American College, assisting seminarians with spiritual direction.
An apostolic administrator is appointed by the Holy Father on either a permanent or temporary basis for many reasons, including severe illness of the bishop of a diocese. The duties assigned to Bishop Olmsted as apostolic administrator of the Diocese of Gallup are similar to those that Bishop Pelotte had, with the exception that they are temporary, i.e they will last only until Bishop Pelotte is able to return or his successor is appointed and installed.
Bishop Olmsted has asked that the faithful of the Diocese of Gallup continue to pray for Bishop Pelotte during his on-going recuperation. He also asks for prayers for himself as he assumes his pastoral duties as Apostolic Administrator of Gallup.
Pastoral Center Office
P.O. Box 1338
Gallup, NM 87305
January 3, 2008
Contact: Matt Doyle
505-593-3997
Bishop Pelotte given medical leave; Phoenix bishop named Apostolic Administrator
On behalf of the Holy Father Pope Benedict XVI, the Papal Nuncio to the United States, Archbishop Pietro Sambi, has notified Bishop Donald E. Pelotte, SSS of the Diocese of Gallup that he has been granted a one-year medical leave of absence. The leave is effective immediately. Archbishop Sambi has also notified Bishop Thomas J. Olmsted of the Diocese of Phoenix that he will serve as apostolic administrator of the Diocese of Gallup.
Bishop Pelotte, 62, suffered severe injures in a fall July 23 at his home in Gallup and has been unable to recover as quickly and completely as had been hoped. The ill-effects of the injuries were cited by Bishop Pelotte in his letter to the Holy See seeking the medical leave of absence.
After receiving treatment in Arizona, Texas and Florida, Bishop Pelotte returned to Gallup on Sept. 21. It was hoped at the time that a return to more familiar surroundings would enhance the bishop’s recovery, but that did not happen. Bishop Pelotte left Gallup again on Dec. 13 for further medical treatment.
Bishop Pelotte was coadjutor bishop of the Diocese of Gallup from 1986 until 1990. With the retirement of Bishop Jerome Hastrich, Bishop Pelotte became the third bishop of the diocese in 1990.
A native of Waterville, Maine, Bishop Pelotte is a member of the Congregation of the Blessed Sacrament and received a Ph.D. in Theology from Fordham University in 1975.
Bishop Pelotte’s father was a member of the Abenaki tribe. When he was ordained coadjutor and then bishop of Gallup, it marked the first time a Native American bishop had served a diocese in the United States.
Bishop Olmsted was ordained a priest of the Diocese of Lincoln, Neb. in 1973. He was installed as the Bishop of the Diocese of Phoenix, December 20, 2003. Prior to his arrival in Phoenix he served as Bishop of Wichita, Kan. after being ordained coadjutor bishop on April 20, 1999. Before serving in Wichita, he served as the rector / president of the Pontifical College Josephinum, a Catholic seminary in Columbus, Ohio.
Bishop Olmsted lived in Italy for more than 16 years. He received a Masters of Arts in Theology, a Doctorate in Canon Law and served for nine years in the Secretariat of State of the Holy See. While serving the Holy See he lived at the Pontifical North American College, assisting seminarians with spiritual direction.
An apostolic administrator is appointed by the Holy Father on either a permanent or temporary basis for many reasons, including severe illness of the bishop of a diocese. The duties assigned to Bishop Olmsted as apostolic administrator of the Diocese of Gallup are similar to those that Bishop Pelotte had, with the exception that they are temporary, i.e they will last only until Bishop Pelotte is able to return or his successor is appointed and installed.
Bishop Olmsted has asked that the faithful of the Diocese of Gallup continue to pray for Bishop Pelotte during his on-going recuperation. He also asks for prayers for himself as he assumes his pastoral duties as Apostolic Administrator of Gallup.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
