The
worldwide daily communication newsletter of The Reformed
Catholic Church
November 2007 Articles
FROM THE OFFICE OF THE PRESIDING
BISHOP
Most Reverend Phillip
Zimmerman DD ThD RSJ
Nov. 19, 2007
Thanksgiving Message
Make a joyful noise unto the
Lord, all the lands!
Serve the Lord with gladness!
Come into His presence with singing!
Know that the Lord is God!
It is He that made us, and we are His;
we are His people,
and the sheep of His pasture.
Enter His gates with thanksgiving
and His courts with praise!
Give thanks to Him, bless His name!
For the Lord is good;
His steadfast love endures for ever,
and His faithfulness to all generations.
Psalm 100
Dear Family in Christ,
As we busily prepare for our
Thanksgiving Day Meal, the arrival of friends and family, or for our own
travels, I pray that we each take a few moments to be truly thankful to
our God for the many blessings we have received over the year. It has been
my tradition, for longer than I can remember, to begin my Thanksgiving Day
with a reading of Psalm 100. This Psalm speaks to my soul and reminds me
of the love of our God for each of us and the importance of giving thanks
to God for the good times, the bad times; the smiles, the tears; the
births, the deaths; the hugs, the pains.... to give thanks for everything,
because everything we have experienced, received or lost has helped
us to grow in faith.
Most importantly, I ask that
you pray for those who do not have a home, family, employment, health,
food, faith or joy in this season. If you are able, share your blessings
with others in need. Visit the lonely and imprisoned, comfort the sick
and sorrowful, feed the hungry, cloth those in need, love those whom
others ignore... This is how we show the world that we are Christian -- by
our GENUINE love for God's people!
For those traveling, may Almighty
God be with you and protect you on your travels; for those expecting
guests, may you have a blessed visit with much laughter, joy and love; for
those serving meals to the homeless and sick, may God bless you
abundantly; and for those who spend this holiday alone, know that you are
NOT alone. Our Lord is with you! And that, my family, is the best
company we can keep!
The Reformed Catholic Church has
much for which to be thankful. We have experienced significant growth that
is far beyond our imagination and expectations. We have been blessed by
wonderful new clergy, members, ministries and vision. This is a gift
from above, and due to the leading of the Holy Spirit. It is a time of a
new Pentecost... We are truly blessed! May we, in turn, seek to be a
blessing to others.
As we wake each day, may this
humble prayer be on our lips and in our hearts:
Come, Lord Jesus,
Be our guest,
And let Thy gifts to us
Be blest. Amen.
A Blessed and Happy Thanksgiving to All!
And now, my Family in Christ, May Almighty God
Bless You!
In the Name of the +Father,
and the +Son and the +Holy
Spirit
Amen.
In Christ, our Light,
++Phillip
Nov. 16, 2007
Dear Family in Christ,
On Saturday, November 10, I met
with Bishop Kenneth Denski and the clergy who will be part of the newly
promulgated Diocese of St. Katherine Drexel in Philadelphia. We shared in
wonderful meals, meetings and a moving celebration the Holy Mass.
This new diocese includes the
states of Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York, Delaware and West
Virginia. Please keep Bishop Ken and the clergy of St. Katherine Drexel
Diocese in your prayers. I would like to personally thank Fr. Michael
Abair, of Pilgrim Sanctuary Camden, NJ for all his efforts to ensure we
had a suitable meeting place and snacks.
On Sunday, November 11, I was
informed that a friend of mine was in critical condition and that I was
needed back in Columbus. I returned immediately and went to the hospital
upon my arrival in Columbus. When I arrived at the ICU, it was clear that
very difficult decisions would have to be made. Friends and family stayed
overnight with him as they prayed together for strength and courage.
On Monday, November 12, the family
was given the chance to spend time with their loved one and then
to prepare themselves for what was to come. Mercifully, this young man's
suffering was brief, as all his systems had suffered irreversible damage
and had shut down. As the hymn, "I'll fly away" was sung by those in the
room, he peacefully joined the communion of saints.
I remained with the young man until
he was transported to the funeral home.
Sadly, the minister who was asked
to hold the funeral service refused. The family then asked me to
celebrate his life. They wanted a Christian end to his earthly life, not a
"hell and brimstone" sermon. It is my honor to send my friend home on
Saturday, November 17. I ask your prayers for this young man, Eddie, his
mother, brother and sister, and for the minister who does not
understand how to be Christian...May he have a true conversion of heart!
A poem in honor of our friend,
Eddie:
I'm There Inside
Your Heart
Right now, I'm in a different
place,
And though we seem apart,
I'm closer than I ever was...
I'm there inside your
heart.
I'm with you when you greet
each day
And while the sun shines
bright,
I'm there to share the
sunsets, too...
I'm with you every night.
I'm with you when the times
are good,
To share a laugh or two,
And if a tear should start to
fall...
I'll still be there for
you.
And when that day arrives
That we no longer are apart,
I'll smile and hold you close
to me...
Forever in my heart.
Eternal Rest grant unto Eddie, O
Lord,
And Let Your Perpetual Light
Shine Upon Him.
Amen
Nov. 9, 2007
On Wednesday evening, November 7,
Clergy of the Diocese of St. Patrick gathered at St. Sebastian RCC to
celebrate the life of our brother, Bishop G. Peter David Posthumus, OPJB,
who returned to the arms of our Lord on Friday, November 2, the Feast of
All Souls.
So many moving, tearful, and joyful
memories of +Peter were shared by those who attended the memorial
celebration. The liturgy ended with each person "dancing" before the
tabernacle of the Lord.... I am sure that Peter smiled!
Bishop Peter's ashes will be
presented to me over the Thanksgiving Weekend. They will be interred into
the memorial garden, as he requested.
Please keep Bishop Peter's family
in your thoughts and prayers.
In Christ,
++Phillip
The Most Reverend Phillip Zimmerman, ThD RSJ
The Reformed Catholic Church
Office of the Metropolitan Archbishop
November 3, 2007
Memorial of the Blessed Virgin Mary
VENI,
SANCTE SPIRITUS, ET EMITTE CAELITIS LUCIS TUAE RADIUM
Dearly Beloved
in Christ,
On this, the
day we mark the passing of our brother in Christ Jesus
Most
Reverend Gordon Peter David Posthumus, OPJB
As we are reminded in Ecclesiastes,
“there is a time for every purpose under heaven. A time to weep, a time
to laugh.” Now is a time of weeping for us. We cry because we feel the
pain caused by the loss of the earthly presence of our brother. We are in
a state of disbelief because we may have just recently have shared a
conversation or a meal with him. Yet, we are reminded today that it is
true… +Peter has left the community of Church Militant and is now among
the saints, martyrs and angels that make up the community of Church
Triumphant!
Death is difficult not for those
who pass through the veil that separates this world from our eternal
reward, but for of us who are left behind. If we have no faith, no trust,
no belief or understanding that there is something wonderful waiting for
us, then death does seem so final, so empty, so meaningless. Yet, our
faith reminds us, time and again, that there is a wonderful home waiting
for each of us when the number of our days is complete.
Through the grace and mercy of our
Lord, Our brother +Gordon Peter David Posthumus’ days of pain and
suffering and were mercifully numbered and he is now in the presence and
loving embrace of our Lord, never to feel pain, suffering, separation or
sorrow again. Our faith in God assures us that all is well for our
brother... I have a suspicion that he is keeping the saints rather engaged
in deeply philosophical discussion! For our brother, +Peter, it is a time
to laugh and rejoice! He is safely home!
As +Peter served as the founding
father of the Dominican Order of The Reformed Catholic Church, I want to
share with you a prayer that was very special to him.
May God the
Father who made us bless us.
May God the
Son send his healing among us.
May God the
Holy Spirit move within us and give us eyes to see with, ears to hear
with, and hands that your work may be done.
May we walk
and preach the word of God to all.
May the
angel of Peace watch over us and lead us at last by God’s grace to the
Kingdom. Amen
Prayer of St. Dominic
What a truly beautiful, moving and
though provoking prayer. It is a prayer that, if we allow, calls our very
soul into action through passion. I believe that +Peter tried to live
his life according to the passion that is shared in this prayer. A deeply
contemplative person, +Peter used his mind to learn, his eyes to see, his
ears to hear, and his hands to work… He was a preacher, a teacher, a
student, a worker, and a man on a journey.
During our many conversations,
+Peter shared with me that he was clear about the destination of the journey, but he knew that the journey was not written. For him
it was a journey that was exciting, frightening, sorrowful, joyful and
purposeful. It was a journey that was worth every emotion that he
experienced, every tear that he shed, every smile that beamed and lit up
his face, and every hand that he held. I wonder how many of us are truly
willing to take time out of our busy days to stop, admire, and contemplate
the beauty of the works of our God, even in the most unseemly places. What
a blessing it would be for each of us, if we would open our hearts, minds
and souls to this glorious gift of beauty.
Our brother, +Peter, was dedicated
to preaching the Gospel, making it both real and relevant in the lives of
those to whom he ministered. He wanted people who were hurting or alone to
know that God’s love was limitless and eternal – and theirs -- and that
hatred and indifference has no real, lasting power. Hatred is nothing more
than an illusion. It has no substance. It only gains those qualities if we
grant it. +Peter knew that love will always win out in the end. As St.
Paul reminds us, “in the end there are three things: Faith, Hope and
Love, and the greatest of these is love.”1 Cor 13:13 +Peter
knew this well.
I know that +Peter did
grieve bitterly for terrible losses in his life, some caused by his
actions, mistakes and misunderstandings; some by the actions, mistakes and
misunderstanding of others. At times, the gulf between him and those whom
he loved and care about seemed far too great to overcome. Perhaps, at
certain times, the man of words had no words to convey his feelings.
As his illness progressed, +Peter
became more of a living example of the Gospel, and asked for prayers for
reconciliation and healing so that words needing to be heard, wouldbe heard. I would like to share some of those words with you. “I
tried to be a good man, a good father and a good friend. I wanted to be a
good priest. I know I fell short… I know I seemed cold, I know I hurt
you, but I hope you know I always loved you.” These were the last
words he shared with me last Monday. I am sure that he wanted those words
to be heard… I hope that you who have ears now hear these words.
When we experience a loss, so many
of us say, “God, I wish I had five minutes more.” But what would we do if
we were granted those five minutes? Would we try to put to rest petty
differences, reconcile with each other to end the pain caused by fear,
misunderstanding, anger or indifference… Or would we let those five
minutes quietly pass into the void? How would those five minutes affect
the rest of our lives? It is my prayer that we would make those five
minutes seem to last an eternity! Perhaps they would prove to be the most
important five minutes of our lives.
We have each been blessed to know a
man like Gordon Peter David Posthumus. A scholar, a teacher, a husband, a
partner, a priest, a father, a friend, a man who was on a journey! Filled
with questions, he is now filled with answers.
He
is at peace.
Eternal Rest grant unto +Peter, O
Lord, and Let Your Perpetual Light Shine Upon Him!
VERITAS!
++Phillip
++Phillip Zimmerman, SJ/RSJ
Metropolitan Archbishop
Nov. 6, 2007
Dear Family in Christ
Over the weekend, Stephen and I had
the opportunity to spend time with Monsignor Marcis and the Holy Cross RCC
Community as they welcomed the Shower of Stoles Project with their
Host-Church, Monroe Street United Methodist Church.
For those who have never heard of
the Shower of Stoles Project, it is a collection of clergy stoles from
over 30 denominations. The stoles are donated by people who have been
denied the opportunity to serve as clergy because they are gay, lesbian,
bisexual or transgendered. When assembled for display, they are a powerful
witness to discrimination and the human will to overcome hatred and
bigotry. I strongly recommend that each of the RCC Communities
prayerfully consider having a Shower of Stoles Presentation at their
parish.
The weekend ended with an
ecumenical service on Sunday. Monsignor Heckman and Rev. Karen Shepler,
the co-hosts, welcomed the 16 denominations that participated in the
Shower of Stoles Weekend Event. Stephen Wilson joined three others to
present "Voices from the Silence", which was a litany of the Shower of
Stoles. Very Reverend Tracy Lind, Dean of Trinity Episcopal Cathedral in
Cleveland, Ohio shared a sermon with the gathered community that was
entitled: The Sacrament of Coming out -- This is our story -- Tell it
from the rooftops! I had the honor of sharing the celebration of the
Liturgy of the Eucharist with Rev. Sheplar. It was wonderful to see nearly
all the gathered community come forward to receive the gift of the Holy
Eucharist.
The Ecumenical Service was moving,
filled with passion, and proved that we -- divided by denominations --can
all work together, if we are all focused on Christ.
I would like to thank Monsignor Heckman for
inviting me to share in this important weekend.
In Christ,
++Phillip
A Guest Book has been created as a tribute to
Bishop G. Peter Posthumus,
OPJB.
to share your memories or express your condolences.
Click the above link or copy
the address below in your browser.
May +Peter's
Soul, and the souls of the Faithful Departed, Rest in Peace. +Amen
Please feel free to copy and post in your parish bulletins.
If you would like to made a donation you can send it to the following
address.
Please accept my donation for $__________________.
o Hogar
o Family Restoration
o Food Program
o Guatemala Mission Fund
Mail to: Guatemala Mission Fund, 28 Michael Court, Gaithersburg, MD 20877.
OFFICE OF THE BISHOP OF THE DIOCESE OF ST.
PATRICK
The Most Reverend William
Quinlan, DD OSI
Nov, 14, 2007
On Veterans Day weekend I made a pastoral
visit to Holy Cross Parish in Toledo, Ohio .
I was very impressed with the beautiful
chapel in the Monroe Street Methodist Church where Holy Cross
celebrates its liturgy. Msgr Heckman is very fortunate to have
found such a facility.
On Sunday evening we concelebrated the Mass,
which was dedicated to Bishop Peter Posthumus, who passed away two
weeks ago. Bishop John Lula, was also in attendance, did the
readings, and offered the Prayers of the faithful. I enjoyed
meeting the congregation of Holy Cross.
After the Mass we were invited to the home of
Charlotte and Lee for a delicious meal, followed by coffee and some
stimulating conversation.
I want to thank Msgr Heckman, and his family
for their gracious hospitality. It was a memorable weekend.
Most Rev. Bill Quinlan
Diocese of St. Patrick
Nov. 5, 2007
Greetings my friends,
This week
I will be making a pastoral visits
to Msgr. Marcis
Heckman RSJ and Holy Cross Parish in Toledo, Ohio.
Msgr. Heckman and the Parish of
Holy Cross continue to be a great inspiration to all of us, as
Holy Cross Parish continues with may outreach
ministries, with the Project Loving Hands Ministry, serving the
seniors of Northwest Ohio and Southeastern Michigan, and Holy Cross
Friendship Ministry working with the mentally challenge folks.
The folks in Toledo hosted the shower of stole event held last
weekend, which was a three day event with a concert on Friday evening
, with the display of over 700 stoles at the Toledo-Lucas County main
Library in downtown Toledo, Ohio all day Saturday, and ending Sunday
with a Ecumenical Worship Service with 18 other churches from around
the Toledo Metropolitan area. Msgr. Heckman works very hard for the
RCC global church as Vicar of Communications, and Chancellor for the
Diocese of St. Patrick, and even developing
Good Samaritan Parish of Detroit
a new mission parish. Let us all keep him
in our prayers and Masses, asking God to grant us the same strength
and courage to preach the love of God, and to build up the church, as
Msgr. Heckman and the Parish of Holy Cross does, in Toledo.
On the
weekend of October 26th and 27th, I traveled with Archbishop
Phillip to Ft. Wayne Indiana for the ordination of Fr. Michel Holland. On November 18th I will visit Sacred Heart parish
in Reynoldsburg, Ohio for confirmation.
I wish you all peace, love, Gods blessing and joy, as we strive to do
His Will
+Bill Quinlan
Diocesan Bishop of St. Patrick
NEWS FROM THE DIOCESE OF ST. PATRICK
From the
Office of the Chancellor Monsignor Marcis Heckman RSJ
Nov. 14, 2007
Dear Columbus Friends and
Family:
It is with sadness that I
inform you of the passing of Eddie Hamlin, Jr.
After a difficult illness,
Eddie passed to his eternal reward on Tuesday, November 13, 2007 at 1:45
pm at Riverside Hospital.
Funeral Arrangements have been
made by Haller Funeral Home in Chillicothe, Ohio
Haller Funeral Home
1661 Western Avenue
Chillicothe, Ohio 45601 Phone: 740-702-2149
Directions:
From The North (US 23)
US 23 South to Bridge St. South. After crossing the Scioto River Bridge,
go to the 2nd Light, turn Right (Water St.). Go to the 4th light and turn
Right (Western Ave.) We are located 2.8 miles on the right
To view the obituary and to post a note of
sympathy, please click on the following link
The Viewing is scheduled for Saturday, November
17 from 11:00am til 1:00pm, with a Celebration of the Mass at 1:00 pm,
followed by internment. The Hamlin family have asked that I celebrate
the mass.
Holy
Cross Reformed Catholic Church in Toledo, Ohio
The Shower of Stoles
November 2-4, 2007
Over the weekend, Holy Cross
RCC Community Welcomed the Shower of Stoles Project. With a concert on
Friday night at the University of Toledo with local artist. On Saturday
the Display of over 700 Stole where presented and on display at the Toledo
- Lucas County Main Library. The weekend ended with an ecumenical service
on Sunday, co-hosted by Holy Cross Reformed Catholic Church, and Monroe
Street United Methodist Church., along with the 16 other denominations
that participated in the Shower of Stoles Weekend Event.
Holy Cross RCC Community was
blessed to have Archbishop Zimmerman and Br. Stephen Wilson join us, and
participated in the Shower of Stoles Weekend Event. here in Toledo, Ohio.
Br. Stephen Wilson joined three others to present "Voices from the
Silence", which was a litany of the Shower of Stoles. This litany is a
very moving, telling of the personal stories of some of those the
stoles represent. Archbishop Zimmerman shared in the celebration of the
Liturgy of the Eucharist.
For those who have never heard
of the Shower of Stoles Project, it is a collection of clergy stoles
other sacred items representing the lives of
gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people of faith from
over 30 denominations. The stoles are donated by people who have been
denied the opportunity to serve as clergy because they are gay, lesbian,
bisexual or transgendered. When assembled for display, they are a powerful
witness to discrimination and the human will to overcome hatred and
bigotry.
This extraordinary collection, currently
housed by the Institute for Welcoming Resources in Minneapolis, celebrates
the gifts of GLBT persons who serve God in countless ways, while also
lifting up those who have been excluded from service because of their
sexual orientation or gender identity. You can visited and
learn more about the Shower of Stoles by visiting
The Institute for
Welcoming Resources - Shower of Stoles Project .
Priestly Ordination for
Reverend Michel-Paul Holland and the Celebration of
Holy Redeemer Reformed Catholic
Church in Ft. Wayne Indiana First Public Mass
On Saturday, October 27, was
the celebration of the
Mass of Priestly Ordination for Reverend Michel-Paul Holland.
Sharing in the
celebration of the Mass
was Archbishop Phillip
Zimmerman RSJ Presiding Bishop, Bishop William Quinlan, RCF
Diocesan Bishop of St. Patrick Diocese, Bishop David Frazee, RSJ , Brother
Danny Evans, RSJ and Monsignor Marcis Heckman RSJ.
On Sunday , October 28, Holy Redeemer Reformed
Catholic Church celebrated their first public Mass.
Monsignor Marcis
Heckman RSJ Chancellor of the Diocese of St. Patrick share
in the celebration of the Mass. Reverend Fr. Michel-Paul Holland, who is
the founding pastor of Holy Redeemer Reformed Catholic Church in
Ft. Wayne, Indiana delivered a wonderful and inspiring message to
the people of Ft. Wayne.
The evening was truly blessed and beautiful, what a
wonderful gift to those attending... Please join the
Diocese of St. Patrick in welcoming our new parish.
Fr. Michel-Paul
Holland RCC E-mail is
FrMichel@reformedcatholicchurch.org
Please keep
Fr. Michel-Paul
Holland, and the community of Holy Redeemer in
your thoughts and prayers.
Ad
Maiorem Dei Gloriam!
Msgr. Marcis Heckman RSJ
Nov. 1, 2007
Holy Cross Reformed Catholic Church in Toledo, Ohio
Bishop Peter Posthumus OPJB visited
the Parish of Holy Cross in Toledo, Ohio the Oct. 11-14, 2007. Bishop Peter
celebrated the Mass on Sunday Evening Oct. 14th. The Parish was very blessed
and honor to have Bishop Peter here to share in fellowship.
Most Rev. Peter Posthumus OPJB
Bishop of Ecumenical & Interfaith
A Week of Fellowship with Bishop G. Peter
Posthumus, OPJB by Fr. Michael Abair Pax Press
Editor
Our community in faith was marked over the
course of the week with a true blessing with the visitation of one of the
most innovative and dedicated men of the episcopate the Reformed Catholic
Church has been blessed to call her own. Bishop G. Peter Posthumus, OPJB,
assigned to the work of ecumenical outreach and inter-religious affairs was
able to be with us – making quite a number of visitations over the course of
his time in the Diocese of St. Patrick’s and in Ohio – and his spirit, as it
always has a way of doing, has left its mark with each of us able to have
been with him during his visitation.
A man consecrated Bishop and
yet ever a pilgrim; traversing the many paths of the Spirit manifest in
sister Churches of our own Christian Tradition and in those of paths which,
touched by the hand of God, take a radical spiritual sensitivity to explore;
Peter was paradoxically “right at home” moving about during the course of
his stay. From his place of primary ministry in Michigan, the Bishop began
the course of his stay with Monsignor Marcis Heckman RSJ, who, in the midst
of his many ministries was able to find rest in the presence of a dear
friend to us all, as +Peter celebrated the Sunday Eucharist – the Gift of
Thanksgiving – a Gift of thanks unto God and a gift for each of us in the
presence of such a dear friend at Holy Cross parish in Toledo. Monsignor
Heckman and the Diocese of Saint Patrick will remember this very special
visitation of one our beloved – speaking so appropriately to the name of the
Bishop’s own parish of Saint John the Beloved – in the tenderness and gentle
love Our Lord bestowed upon those beloved gathered round the table which we
recall as a people of the Eucharist.
Bishop Posthumus brings the
reality of the Holy Mass to Life in his ministry; of the God who so loves us
that He manifests the ALL of His very Self in the simple gifts of bread and
wine. The coming together of ALL as One is the core of an inter-religious
dialogue centered in Christ in the Eucharist and we would be so very remiss
not to draw attention to the uniqueness of this ministry of this Bishop
Posthumus. On this very note, given his very full schedule for the week of
visitation there was no question for the Bishop to set to work; and at none
other than the Cathedral of Saint Sebastian’s. Bishop Peter was greeted in
the loving arms of Archbishop Zimmerman the Presiding Bishop and Shepard of
the Reformed Catholic Church, Bishop Quinlan the Diocesan Bishop of St.
Patrick Diocese, and Bishop Frazee Rector of St. Sebastian and co-jour of
the Church. Bishop Peter spent time in Columbus; the heart of the Re-formed
Tradition of which his ministry is so very much a part: taking that which is
formed and surrendering to the Spirit in whom all things are continually
made new. A man of great courage, in the ministry of seeking Christ even
beyond both the grounds of the RCC and moreover in those faiths of the
explicitly non-Christian faith Tradition, the Bishop’s time at St.
Sebastian’s provided a space for both reflection and dialogue.
The
Rev. Fr. Michael
B. Tigner, OPE, Rector of Sacred Heart Parish Pickerington, Ohio
celebrated the Holy Eucharist Emergent Rite, for a part of the Bishop’s stay
in dialogue as to the ongoing work of the Dominican and Anglican presence in
the RCC; both of which Bishop Posthumus embodies and has particularly sought
as aspects of his efforts in ecumenism. The ongoing connection and
development between these two aspects of the Catholic faith as they relate
to the RCC will, no doubt, springing from the efforts of Bishop Posthumus,
continue to flower with Fr. Tigner on board. In addition international
developments of the Anglican contingent are well underway to the delight of
the Bishop; presently developing in Australia as the parish of
St. Flora Reformed Catholic Church,
ministered to by Sr. Maggie Leigh Britton. The
seeds planted by the Bishop he delights to witness flowering globally and
the wisdom of his vision continue to nurse those who live into it and
partake in its further growth.
The Bishop’s visitation to Columbus could not be complete
without gathering amongst all who have come to know and love him. The
Beloved Shepard’s visitation could not have been complete without a warm
welcome and time of fellowship with Bishop David Frazee, RSJ, and Reverend
Mothers Susan Orlos, RSJ, and Molly Wilcox, RSJ, in faith; and yet, the
spirit of Bishop Posthumus, while well familiar with the language of the
Church, has never been a man to draw lines of distinction in the sand. His
time with his fellow Bishop and Reverend Mothers were hardly formal; rather
were they all the more simply time with family. Bishop Peter celebrated the
Mass at St. Luke Jesuit Mission, with Reverend Mothers Susan Orlos, RSJ, and
Molly Wilcox, RSJ and the community of St. Luke.
Before the return trip to Michigan, Bishop Peter spared in
the Holy Mass of the Feast of St. Luke at the Cathedral of Saint Sebastian’s. Celebrated
by, Monsignor Marcis Heckman RSJ. This was the very special time shared
with Bishop G. Peter Posthumus during his visitation, a week spent with his
family. This is the spirit of a man who enlivens our sisters and brothers
with the spirit of our family – a family without lines of separation or
distinction. We celebrate this wonderful time with our beloved Bishop, a
Father of our Family in Faith, we celebrate in thankfulness the continued
fruits of his ministry and we look with joy to the harvest, borne of his
vision, which continues to enliven so many of us in the Church today. Until
the Bishop’s next visitation, we – who have come to understand what it
really means to be family through him – embrace him and look forward to the
day when we shall be together again.
NEWS
FROM THE DIOCESE OF THE DIVINE MERCY
From the Office
of the Chancellor Monsignor Michael Baremore RCF
Nov. 1,
2007
The birth of a
new RCC parish here in San Antonio, Texas.
St
Anthony Reconciliation A
Reformed Catholic CommunitySan
Antonio, Texas
The local community has deemed it important
to name this new emerging parish -- -- after the patron saint of San
Antonio. We seek your prayers and blessings in this journey. Our community
has started meeting together, learning, praying and will start gathering for
public mass towards the beginning of November. However, it is the First
Sunday of Advent we will officially (and publicly) begin regular
services to our community. Pray for us. Must admit a bit of trepidation, as
well as excitement of an impending birth, as we move forward. Mainly
my personal lack of skill adept enough for the task at hand. But trusting
the One we follow. Besides, the Creator loves using fools to confound the
wise. "Here am I, Lord!' This will be a journey of Faith for sure.
The journey will be a indeed be a real
adventure. I hope to visit all our parishes within Divine Mercy very
soon. We will talk very soon of course. Naturally, I will be in Mexico as
soon as possible too, but traveling more through out the greater country,
sharing more about the RCC there, while home based in San Antonio. We will
be planning several short term mission trips into Mexico later in the spring
too. I hope to be in Guadalajara and Mexico City soon. Better get your
passports ready! Much love to our global RCC family, surely we will be
in just about in every continent very soon. Let us utilize our excellent RCC
communication tools. Stay in touch! We lift each of you daily and looking
forward to hearing of your growing communities. Reconciliation, diplomacy, open and
prayerful patience are virtues necessary tools for our lives. What an
amazing Faith walk. Each of us walks here, let us pray for each other
rejoicing. Much peace until we all can gather together soon.
Each of you enjoy the day and week. Much
Grace!! Fr. Mike
OFFICE OF THE BISHOP OF THE
DIOCESE OF ST. MICHAEL
The Most
Reverend Patrick Batuyong, DD
Nov. 3, 2007
St.
Michael The Defender Reformed Catholic Church, Atlanta, Georgia
October 20, 2007, was marked with the Ordination of Reverend Deacon Warren
Taylor, RSJ, Online Corrdinator to the Vicariate of Communications, into the
Priesthood of the Reformed Catholic Church. Reverend Father Warren Taylor,
RSJ, was ordained by The Most Reverend Patrick Batuyong, at a Mass held at
St. John Lutheran Church, Atlanta, Georgia.
Reformed Catholic Church clergy in
attendance were, The Reverend Mother Molly Wilcox, RSJ, The Reverend Mother
Susan Orlos, RSJ, both of Columbus, Ohio, and The Reverend Father Joseph
Corrigan. Vicar of Armed Forces Chaplaincy. Also assisting in the Mass was
Brother John-Philip Daly, OSF, as Server and Ms. Sarah Ruth Taylor as
Acolyte. Ms. Sarah Ruth Taylor is the seven year old daughter of the new
Father Warren Taylor.
Other special guest of the Ordination
were The Reverend Paul Turner, Pastor of Gentle Spirit Christian Church, The
Reverend Guy Kent, Pastor Emeritus of Epworth United Methodist Church, and
Mr. Lance Helms, Georgia State Coordinator for P.F.L.A.G. Family, friends,
and colleagues were also in attendance.
Photography and Video were provided by
Ms. Alyce Keener of “A Keener Image” web services and and a reception was
provided by St. Michael The Defender Catholic Church Parish Life
Coordinator, Ms. Judy Rogers and parish members.
October 21, 2007, marked the first
public Mass of Father Warren Taylor and was held in the historic Candler
Park of Atlanta, Georgia. The open air Mass was joined by Gentle Spirit
Christian Church, who began a program of “Church Without Walls” in Candler
Park in September of 2006. The Mass, which was blessed with beautiful
weather, was highlighted by and followed with a potluck picnic luncheon
afterwards.
Reverend Father Warren Taylor has, for
the past three months, been providing for the daily production of the
Reformed Catholic Radio Podcast. Programs now include, “The Daily Word”,
heard Mondays through Fridays, “Reflections Of The Church”, hosted by
Archbishop Phillip Zimmerman on Saturdays, and “The Sunday Homily”. Father
Taylor will work as Pastoral Associate to St. Michael The Defender Reformed
Catholic Church parish assisting Bishop Patrick Batuyong. Also Father Taylor
will begin work on a new parish ministry, St. Maria Mission.
The Progressive Christian Movement,
which has it's beginnings and offices in Atlanta, Georgia, has asked Father
Taylor to chair a committee on Community Outreach Ministry. The ecumenical
involvement of local area churches will focus on humanity issues surrounding
poverty, social justice, and equality.
Bishop Patrick Batuyong
Diocesan Bishop
NEWS FROM THE DIOCESE OF ST. MICHAEL
On behalf of The
Cathedral Of St. Michael The Defender Reformed Catholic Church, and The Most
Reverend Patrick Batuyong;
Nov. 18, 2007
World Aids Day Observance
Atlanta, Georgia
December 1, 2007
7:00 PM
Saturday,
December 1, 2007, will mark the annual World Aids Day observance for the
Metro Atlanta area with 4 local churches joining together in ecumenical
fellowship in the remembrance of those affected by HIV and AIDS. This year's
theme is “We Remember, We Celebrate, We believe”.
The
congregations of First Christian Church of Decatur, Gentle Spirit Christian
Church, Oakhurst Baptist and St. Michael the Defender of the Reformed
Catholic Church invite the community to come together to remember, raise in
memorial those who have died and call for action that recognizes
HIV is not just a disease. It’s proof positive
of
injustice!
Remembering
the lives that have been lived, Celebrating the lives being lived, and
holding to the Belief that we can one day see a world without HIV and AIDS.
The annual observance day has been adopted to help share hope and
information with communities; to open minds and hearts to the plight of
those infected and affected by this terrible disease.
The service
will be held at The First Christian Church Of Decatur, Georgia, at 7:00PM.
All are welcome and invited to attend this most special time of remembrance,
celebration of life and a call for action.
Come and be a part of making a difference.
First
Christian Church Of Decatur Disciples Of Christ
601 West Ponce
De Leon
Decatur,
Georgia 30030
For more information contact:
Most Reverend Patrick W. Batuyong, DD
St. Michael The Defender Catholic Church
678-732-9722
Rev. Paul M. Turner
Gentle Spirit Christian Church
404-604-8124
Rev. James Brewer-Calvert
First Christian Church of Decatur
404-378-3621
Nov. 3, 2007
St. Maria Mission
A Ministry of St. Michael The Defender
Catholic Church
Atlanta, Georgia
A new ministry has formed out
of The Cathedral Of Saint Michael The Defender, Atlanta, Georgia. It is
within this community that St. Maria Mission is taking it's first
fledgling steps. With a focus on the computer savvy youth and young adults
that spend much of their time daily online, the new mission ministry will
predominately begin its work with the introduction of it's informative and
interactive website.
The numbers of kids and teens
already using websites such as “myspace” and countless other messaging
services like AIM, Yahoo, MSN, and ICQ, is growing daily and monthly. For
many of these kids and youth there is no positive roll model or guidance
while surfing the internet. St. Maria Mission will offer information to
these individuals to help them on their journey in life. They will be
given answers to the questions they have about God and the Church. They
will have ways to interact with the website in the form of forums and
blogging and even a monitored chat setting.
For those expressing further
interest there will be downloadable information on many of the Church's
teachings, on spiritual growth, and positive reinforcement. Many for the
first time will be given encouragement in their daily life. And above all
they will find acceptance for who they are as a human being. Another
positive outcome to this is that they will have the opportunity to
interact with others just like them and many on the same paths of life
that they are. They will have a chance to experience real peer to peer
positive interaction, free from judgment, harassment, and in a safe
environment.
St. Maria Mission will reach
out to more then just the younger generation. There will be positive and
nurturing information for families so that they may reconnect. Help will
be given to parents on how to talk and communicate with their kids,
helping families be families again. Communicating through understanding,
acceptance, and positive role modeling. Helping Parents be parents again
and even becoming better parents.
As St. Maria Mission grows
there are plans to begin after school programs that will provide activity
and social interaction. Participants can bring their homework and receive
guidance and help as they sit in a safe and nurturing atmosphere. They
will be encouraged to become involved in their families and neighborhoods
and communities. They can learn social involvement and become part of
issues that bring improvement.
Reaching out to the younger
people of our community and awakening inside them the desire to see
improvement come to their neighborhoods. Giving them a voice that will be
listened to. Teaching them in positive ways to express themselves. These
are but a few of the many ideas and plans that St. Maria Mission will
explore and create.
The real impact of what can
be accomplished just by involvement in the lives of many of these kids and
youth is unmeasurable. There are many kids that have no one to talk to or
to reach out to. Every measure will be taken to provide a safe, positive,
non threatening environment for all to feel welcome and accepted.
There are two frequently used
phrases within St. Maria Mission; one is, “All Are Welcome In This Place”,
and the other is, “I Am Somebody At St. Maria Mission”. These are more
then mantras for St. Maria Mission, these are the very tenants that make
up the ministry of St. Maria Mission.
Growth will take time and
change is sometimes slow to catch on. Sometimes an explosion can happen.
The need here is so great. Never has the need to reach the youth of our
community and world been greater. Now is the time to reach out to them,
now is the time to instill in them a real sense of worth and value. With
prayer, patients, and some hard work, St. Maria Mission will be there for
the community and those she serves. Who knows, God willing, there might be
a St. Maria Mission in every community one day.
From the Office
of the Chancellor Monsignor Shawn Smith, RSJ
Nov. 9. 2007
A Reflection on the Anniversary of
St. Joe's
In just another week, our Parish in
New Haven will be celebrating one year of ministry. It's really caused me to
think about just what ministry means to me. I can remember not long ago,
having just been ordained and being so nervous about what would happen with
St. Joseph's. I can remember the doubts and fears that I had as we began to
undertake this task. In the same way I remember the energy, and
excitement of being able to celebrate my faith in such a public way.
For so many years I had become
disheartened by watching what religion was becoming. It seemed like more and
more people where using religion as a weapon, which caused such deep
division. In beginning this church, I heard so many stories or hurt and pain
caused by those who should be bringing healing and compassion. I failed to
understand how those who were so inspired, could be so mislead. After all
the God that I know, called those who are outcasts, to come and be welcomed
into a family and community that would affirm and love, despite the views of
the world.
I believe so deeply in our
ministerial presence. We started as a small group of believers gathering and
sharing a common faith. Somehow down the path we became a church, and we
were called to minister even more. Before you knew it one milestone was
being passed to become another. We've had baptisms, weddings, and funerals.
We've ministered in hospitals and prisons. We have reached out into the
public eye and taken our faith to the streets, and proclaimed that Catholic
doesn't simply mean Roman. We have redefined our faith here in Connecticut,
and we offer an alternative, that offers the same Christ and sacraments, but
with a community, that truly cares for all.
Our Roman Catholic brothers, have said
that all are called to walk in the way of Christ, but their actions have not
shown that they believe all to be worthy. God's love knows NO limits. There
is no exception to the love that the Father has for His children. When we as
ministers and lay people of the church learn to love without seeing the
faults in our Brothers and Sisters, we truly learn what Christianity means.
Having the eyes of Christ, means to
see what needs to be done. They are eyes and ears of action, for when we see
and hear those hurting and in need, we act. The presence of this church is
so important because without it, so many of our Catholic brothers and
sisters, would lose their faith. It is time to re-explore what being
catholic means! It is time to rediscover our love for the church, and it's
essential place in our lives. It is time to open wide the doors of our
hearts for Christ, so that peace, love, acceptance, and happiness can be a
part of our lives. More importantly it is time to share that peace with one
another.
We continue to help people rebuild
their faith. Faith that has been lost from hurt, neglect, and distrust.
These things are able to be overcome with love. When we look at the
sacraments of the church, we find an outpouring of Christ's love. A love
that is meant just for us, and when we find truth we are called to share it.
This small parish has been a step of
courage, and through that we have found, I have found, an extraordinary
faith. May God continue His good work in this small parish of St. Joe's!
Nov. 5, 2007
Dear Friends in Christ:
It is with a warm wishes that I
great you today. St. Joseph of Arimathea Reformed Catholic Church in New
Haven, CT will celebrate its 1st Anniversary on November 18, 2007. This is
a milestone for our ministry here in CT along with our Diocese and the RCC
itself. We remain the only parish currently in CT.
It has been a long year, baptism by
fire if you will. And so I offer these reflections to you.
It wasn't long ago when we
celebrated our first mass in the basement of a UCC church on the green. We
gathered nearly 30 at our first liturgy. Over time, we as a parish fought
for the soul of a young man on death row in CT. He is now an important
member of our Parish, and joins us in prayer weekly although he remains
incarcerated. Msgr. Shawn is able to visit him regularly. We stand by our
moto, "A Church Without Outcasts!"
Recently we celebrated the marriage
of two active parishioners Robert and Erika. And just weeks before
celebrated the Baptism of baby Anthony. Sadly we have lost people along
the way also, Shirley Spigarolo went to be with the Lord and Bro. Terrence
and myself were called on to minister to her family in their time of
need. All of these are more than we had imagined would happen in our
first year.
Now St. Joe's meets in it's
permanent chapel at 311 Temple Street, in New Haven, hosted by the Center
Church on the Green.
On November 18th at 6:00 PM we will
be having a Mass in celebration of this Anniversary. It will be offered
for the deceased relatives of Parishioners, and also for Bishop Peter.
Realizing how hard it may be for
some to travel to Columbus for +Peter's Mass, this will offer the clergy
of our diocese to also participate in this event.
This invitation is warmly extended
to all. If you are unable to be with us in person, please unite with us in
prayer.
In Christ,
Msgr. Shawn M. Smith RSJ
Pastor / Chancellor
FROM THE OFFICE OF THE VICAR OF
COMMUNICATIONS
The
Very Reverend Marcis Heckman RSJ
Nov. 7, 2007
Greetings RCC Family
By now everyone should
have received their new RCC E-mail and passwords. Remember to update
your profile with your current information when you sign in to your
E-mail account, this will assure that your contact information in the
RCC Global Directory is up-to-date.
Beginning next week we
will start using your RCC E-mail address for sending out mailings. The
web site is in the process of switching over all e-mail addresses to
your RCC E-mail.
When you fill out your
profile this will automatic up date the new Global Directory. This new
system will allow us to keep a current up-to-date Directory available
to all RCC members. It is your responsibility to keep your Profile
and contact information current and up-to-date.
How to sign
into your RCC E-mail account.
You can
enter by going to Clergy Email
on the RCC web site. I recommend that you put the Clergy
Email
on your favorites for easy assess to the RCC E-mail. By doing so,
you avoid having to make multiple click to get to your RCC E-mail.
The password that was assigned will be use to gain assess to the
secure parts of the web site, and share files.
When you enter you new RCC Mail, you will need to up date your profile
with your current information this will be automatically update the
RCC Global Directory. This will assure that the Global Directory is
up-to-date, and all RCC members will have your current information.
This will allow the RCC E-mail Users to view the RCC Global Address
List, displaying all email addresses and users at the domain-level.
This adds increased functionality to the auto-complete features, speed
communication and reduce the number of misdirected emails due to mis-addressed
emails.
Email is a crucial productivity tool. It is supposed to take
communication, organization and resource-sharing to a higher level.
The New RCC E-mail System is designed to help achieve that.
The New RCC E-mail System is a full-feature email system. It comes
with advanced features such as account statistics, content filtering,
variable inboxes, calendar, RSS feeds and many more.
The new system allow us a trouble-free sharing of contacts, calendar
events, tasks and notes as a resource for communication and
collaboration. Allowing the RCC members to view and share email
folders. You can set “Read and Write” or “Read Only” permissions for
these folders. The password that was assigned will be use to gain
assess to the secure parts of the web site, and share files.
All
Committees, Departments and Clergy members are required to have a
RCC E-mail. This was discussed at the last Synod, and would be
implemented with the year.
After
you have sign-in to your New RCC Mail, you can forward your RCC mail
to any e-mail address that you what to use. Please remember to fill
in your you profile with your current information.
If you have any question please contract me.
Msgr. Marcis Heckman RSJ
Vicar of Communications
Msgr. Marcis
Heckman RSJ
Vicar of
Communications
P. O. Box 4907
Toledo, Ohio 43910
419-517-6762
Confidentiality
Memorandum The information contained in each issue of the Pax Press
Express is private and confidential to RCC members, and associates only.
Should anyone wish to re-print anything submitted, contact the Vicariate
of Communications at 419-517-6762, or E-mail PaxPressRCC@aol.com
.JPG)
