Please send your comments and inquiries to leaderpub@votf.org
Donations to VOTF can be made on line or mailed to
VOTF, P.O. Box 423, Newton Upper Falls, MA 02464-0002
In the Vineyard DEADLINE FOR DECEMBER COPY IS 12/1

Have you received your VOTF quarterly? If not, please call the VOTF office at 617-558-5252 and request the fall issue. Submissions for the quarterly are gratefully considered. Please contact Peggie Thorp at leaderpub@votf.org.

REMINDER: To contact an affiliate in your area, just go to the VOTF Web site at http://www.votf.org/Parish_Voice/groups.html, identify your state by region, click appropriately and you're there.

In the Vineyard
November 2003

"Prayer makes the heart large enough until it can contain God's gift of Himself. Ask and seek, and your heart will grow big enough to receive Him and keep Him as your own." Blessed Mother Teresa

The record-breaking response from readers last month to the "What Do You Think" section of this publication underscored again the readiness among us. Coupled with the remarkable success of tri-state conferences (NY/NJ/CT and OH/KY/IND), and galvanized by the work of 190 affiliates around the world, several observations seem inarguable: Catholics want to be asked and are ready to answer the challenging questions of our time; VOTF is here to stay; bishop accountability matters; and prayer heals. As Mother Teresa hoped in the above quote, Catholics are asking and seeking.

Several attendees at the NY conference asked what might be done about what often appears to be rampant passivity among our fellow Catholics. The answer has always been the same in VOTF's work - engage with as many people as possible, encourage listening to survivors and, as one correspondent told VOTF last month, "Keep on keeping on!"

For all the acquiescence so easily evidenced among American Catholics, for all the declining attendance at Mass around the world, for all the frustrations inherent in change, it has always been clear to VOTF that as a People of God we are profoundly touched by ongoing events. As of the current crisis, Catholics are committed to our faith in ways yet unfolding and not as quantifiable as meeting attendance and affiliate growth. Affiliates from coast to coast as well as Catholics in many other reform movements are nourishing themselves and our shared faith by way of the spate of new and thought-provoking books that face squarely the crisis that is far from over. Theologians and universities, many parishes and small faith and contemplative communities are seeing a new day in their audiences, congregations and gatherings. VOTF conferences continue to draw Catholics who are first-time visitors to a VOTF gathering - they come for community and for shared liturgy with others who feel as they do. Even where VOTF is banned from the use of Church property, Catholics show up. http://www.capecodonline.com/cctimes/laityto20.htm

Responses to the VOTF experience vary but each experience is grounded in community. Paul Kendrick of Maine may be the best example to date of growing into this moment in his own way. His letter (http://www.votf.org/vineyard/nov03/think.html) reminds us that Christ was banned, too, but it didn't stop Him or those who heard Him from being in each other's company, from "going out." This leave-taking of our places is our common calling - we invite you to tell us about your own journey as we continue to "keep the faith and change the Church." Together, we will continue to honor Mother Teresa's wise vision - "Seek and ask." Please continue to write to VOTF at leaderpub@votf.org.

Peggie L. Thorp, ed. "

National News and Notes

VOTF vice-president Ann Carroll reports on the
The VOTF National Policy Forum

Which potential VOTF programs would be of most interest to Catholics in Seattle, WA, Nashville, TN, Brooklyn, NY, and Peoria, IL? What should be VOTF's role at the US Catholic Conference of Bishops meeting in St. Louis? Should voting in VOTF officer elections be expanded to all registered members? What are the hot topics in your diocese? These are a sampling of the questions discussed in the National Policy Forum conference calls. These monthly calls were instituted based on feedback from affiliate representatives (from outside Boston) following adoption of the "3 VPs" motion at the January 2003 Representative Council meeting. The intent of the motion was to ensure greater representation in VOTF policy-making for Regional Coordinators and affiliate representatives from outside Boston.

The initial participants were selected to ensure representation from all four VOTF regions (West, Central, East and South), focusing on areas with large concentrations of VOTF affiliates/members. Over time, additional participants have been added, often to provide local commentary on an issue with national ramifications. Recent participants include: Shannon Whalen (Louisville, KY), Elizabeth Warren and Jim Zralek (Nashville, TN), Eileen Knoff and Catherine Smith (Seattle, WA), Ed and Peg Gleason and Hugh O'Regan (San Francisco, CA), Peter Davey (Oakland, CA), Sandy Simonson and Suellen Riley (Phoenix, AZ), Nan Fischer (Cincinnati, OH), Kris Ward (Dayton, OH), Maria Cleary (Northern NJ), Maria Coffey and David Pais (NY City), Melissa Gradel (Brooklyn, NY), Terry O'Connor (Chicago, IL), John Ryan (Peoria, IL), and Jim Post, Ann Carroll, Cathy Fallon, Steve Krueger, Mary Ann Keyes and Suzy Nauman (Boston/national office).

Each call centers on one or two pre-determined issues of common concern. The calls provide a systematic mechanism for voices of representatives from across the country to be heard. Too, this communication effort will go a long way toward communication efforts not only between our 198 affiliates and the national office but among those affiliates as well.

National Chair of Parish Voices Mary Ann Keyes submits
PROCEDURES FOR AFFILIATION/Forming a Parish Voice Affiliate

Through our "Parish Voice" working group we are promoting and supporting the development of VOTF affiliate organizations in dioceses across the US. We currently have membership in over 40 US States and 21 countries with the highest concentration of affiliates in the New England and Northeast Corridor states. See our Website for a listing of Parish Voice affiliates and other information at http://www.votf.org/Parish_Voice/pvwelcome.html.

Parish Voice is the means by which lay Catholics across the country and the world experience the mission and goals of Voice of the Faithful in their own unique community setting. Each Parish Voice affiliate is an independent group of lay Catholics, generally associated with a specific parish and living the mission statement and goals of VOTF in a manner they develop. In this way each PV feels connected to a greater cause while maintaining its own autonomy and independence.

The relationship between Voice of the Faithful, Inc. and the Parish Voice groups in local parishes is that of an independent affiliate. VOTF, Inc., has adopted a policy for the formation of PV affiliates as well as their right to use the VOTF and trademarks. A group of Catholics can form a PV affiliate if a two-thirds majority votes to form a PV affiliate. There is no restriction as to the type of organization, i.e., informal association, corporation, etc., that an affiliate can be. Subsequently, the group must contact VOTF and notify them they have taken such action. To date VOTF has accepted all affiliates requesting this status. VOTF grants its affiliates the right to use its name and trademarks as long as the affiliate agrees to abide by the mission statement, goals and policies of VOTF.

VOTF, Inc. supports the formation of affiliates in several ways. Through our Regional Coordinators we facilitate the organization of interested persons within specific geographic areas. As part of this process we convey the model by which the organization was originally formed, which serves to provide a process for creating organizational identity and cultural integrity throughout VOTF.

Every PV affiliate is entitled to provide a representative to VOTF's Representative Council. This council has been established by the Board of Trustees to provide VOTF with the means for a collective vision of the future of the Catholic Church. The Representative Council meets on a monthly basis.

 

Late News - Fran O'Leary has agreed to serve as interim moderator of the National Lay Representative Council as Maura O'Brien ends her nearly two years in the position. See more on Maura's outstanding service to VOTF in the December issue.

National Chair of Prayerful Voice Susan Troy, M.Div., Report on the Prayerful Voice National Steering Committee

There is a proposal for a conference on lay spirituality to be included as one of VOTF's national events in 2004-2005. The proposed conference, for VOTF members, by VOTF members, would be held in Spring 2004.

We need your input! Prayerful Voice is made up of the Prayerful Voice representatives from affiliates across the country. We have been working to establish communication with all of you. If you have not informed us of your existence and/or interest in being part of the Prayerful Voice national working group, please contact us! (PrayerfulVoice@voiceofthefaithful.org)

We need to keep the VOTF mission statement before us… "To provide a prayerful voice, attentive to the Spirit…." How have we as individuals and as a community recognized the Spirit's work in our midst? How have we encouraged it?

We want to begin to articulate what so many of us have experienced, that being a member of VOTF has been an incredible, Spirit-filled journey. What was our "spirituality"? How did we live out our faith in the world and how did our faith sustain us in that world? How has our faith and spirituality been changed, perhaps even transformed, by our reaction to this crisis in the Church, and our association with this movement called Voice of the Faithful? Those are some of the questions with which we will begin our thinking.

Prayerful Voice hopes to facilitate a means to ponder these questions at the affiliate level, to foster discussion and feedback that would culminate in a Lay Spirituality Conference where we could meet, pray and discuss the spiritual fruits we are receiving.

National Prayerful Voice Steering Committee - Susan Troy, M.Div., Chair, National Prayerful Voice, Sr. Betsy Conway CSJ, Barbara Jordan, Kaye Pfeiffer, Dr. Ana-Maria Rizzuto, Robert Szpila, M.Div., Mary Jo Tecce

 

Reminder - National Representative Council elections for officers - Nominations are due from registered members by November 21. Submit your nominations here: http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.asp?u=42591305701 .Members, be sure to check your email for Executive Director Steve Krueger's email of 10/30. The subject line reads, "VOTF Nominations for Elected Officers." Any additional questions, please call the office at 617-558-5252.

 

VOTF again bears witness at the semiannual bishops' conference in Washington, DC. Nov. 10-13. VOTF-National and VOTF-Northern Virginia will hold a press conference on Monday evening in Washington, D.C. to present a VOTF Report on the State of the Clergy Sexual Abuse Crisis in Light of the Bishops' Conference. VOTF will focus on issues of bishops' accountability, transparency and disclosure from lay review boards, and signs of hope. Visit the VOTF Web site at http://www.votf.org/bishopsconference/DC/index.html and this space in December for an update.

 

In keeping with their mission, the Structural Change Working Group is conducting a survey on Parish Pastoral Councils - their existence and efficacy. Click here for my details: http://www.votf.org/Structural_Change/surveybackground.html

 

Survivor Community Report
Steve Sheehan

At the moment The Lighthouse is alive and well. It appears that, unless someone comes up with a better course of action, the physical plant in East Boston will shut its doors on December 31. Financially, this makes sense. Founders Phil and Lauren intended to fund the first two years of operation out of the proceeds of the sale of their real estate in Providence. Unfortunately, the sale did not produce the amount anticipated. Phil and Lauren have invested heavily in covering all costs (minus whatever donations have been received to date) amounting to some $700 per month for rent plus phone, Internet, Web design, and other operating expenses. It is neither just nor moral to hold them to any further commitment. They have already done far more than they were really able to do.

To continue to pay this amount of rent for a property that has not realized the anticipated attendance from survivors would be fiscally irresponsible. Donations that have been raised will continue to fund the cost of maintaining a telephone, Web site maintenance and associated expenses so that the Lighthouse can continue to be a resource and referral service for the survivor community.

Phil has been working with his accountant to provide a detailed accounting of the income and expenses of the operation. These will be posted to the Web site as soon as it is complete.

The future of the Lighthouse as an institution and its method of operation properly are the business of the survivor community for which it was organized. We advocates who are now serving on the board of directors are only trying to keep the light burning and to determine what the survivors would want to see as the future of the program.

I will do whatever I can, in accordance with the wishes of the survivors and the other directors, to ensure that accounting for the funds is accurate and that the closure of the East Boston office is handled properly. Since there are no paid functionaries in the operation, it is not to be expected that anyone can provide full-time coverage to these activities. All who are willing to help are invited and appreciated by the board.

For the remainder of this month, it is incumbent to report on the finances of the corporation and prepare for a graceful transition to a new modus operandi, whatever form that may take.

I, and I am sure that the other directors feel similarly, would appreciate any input, any ideas, any recommendations, any alternative solutions that may exist anywhere out there in the survivor/advocate communities.

For a must-read in the Christian Science Monitor, go to www.csmonitor.com, click on "Archive" and type in to the Search box "Sexual Abuse." Go to the 10/23/03 article by Mary Wiltenburg, "Sensitive task of putting a price tag on sexual abuse."

Letters to the Editor

The response from readers on the subject of limiting the service of altar girls and eliminating applause and dancing during Mass was overwhelmingly critical of what many saw as a significant leap backward for our Church. Recently, VOTF has learned in NCR that the Vatican supporters of such changes have reconsidered and will not, at this time, be advocating several of the proposals, which generated considerable controversy and shock among Catholics. Nonetheless, your response tells us a little more about who we are and what we're thinking even beyond specific liturgical changes Be sure to give some thought to this month's "What Do You Think?" and many, many thanks for your spontaneous and articulate response to this first foray! Respond to leaderpub@votf.org.

"Ridiculous! Where are the lessons learned from Vatican II? One day the Church will be needing women for ministry of all sorts. This would represent another retrenchment. As far as officiating with other clergy - where is our ecumenical movement? We should be emphasizing our similarities, not our differences. Have we learned nothing?"
M. Welch

"Rearranging the deck chairs on the Titanic is another analogy that comes to mind. It makes me sick that this is where our authority figures place their efforts."

"I was furious after reading the article in the Charlotte, NC Diocesan paper regarding restriction of altar girls, applause, and liturgical dance, Many forms of worship, whether cultural or simply expressive of love of our Creator, using our talents such as dance or applause in moderation, express encouragement or acknowledgement for another. Dear God, help me keep the Faith."
Margaret Lozier-Arps

"Regarding the latest proposed changes, I could just cry when I realize that this is what has been on the minds of our leaders with the world in such a sorry and needy condition today."
Pauline Reynolds, Providence, RI

"Having been involved in Ecumenical dialogue for some fifteen years, and also in Muslim/Christian and Jewish/Christian dialogue for as many years, in Montreal, I have but one comment: I think it's absolutely ludicrous!"
Rita Leblanc

"We have been blessed to have been able to travel quite extensively. My wife quips that there is no church we have ever seen that we have not visited. This is especially true of non-American churches. Worldwide, churches are the repository of the history and art of an area. Each one is a museum of culture and beauty. One can learn, and enjoy, much by making these visits.

Historically, the American church has been healthier than others around the world. People attended US churches and participated. In recent times, however, a malaise, similar to that of other countries, is starting to take hold. We are becoming cynical. The sins of the hierarchy, the ugliness of the pedophile tragedy, the disgusting focus on donations, the denigration of females in general, the refusal to follow through on the wonders of Vatican II, the mismanagement and so much more. And now a small thing, but emblematic of so much that is wrong with the church - the proposal from Vatican sources that altar girls might be welcome no longer. It took so long to allow them to participate and now this stupidity. Sometimes it is just a small straw that breaks the proverbial camel's back."
Bob Dahlen

"I really don't think much of the ideas presented. It has taken centuries to try to break down barriers that artificially separate and someone wants to put all of that behind us? As to the idea of banning poetry, etc., I have always thought that the majority of priests (I'm an ex-seminarian) didn't really understand what was going on in the lives of the people in the pews. If something can be uplifting, then there is certainly nothing wrong with using it. We all recognize why we're at a Mass - to receive the Body and Blood of Christ. If we can be uplifted and feel good while we're there, then hooray!
Peter Halle

"Let's hope there are new guidelines demanding more reverent and worshipful behavior at Mass - the sooner the better. Maybe it will remind Catholics what the Mass is, or should be, all about."
Rose Kehoe

"Here are two thoughts regarding 'What Do You Think?' First, the very act of asking us what we think is novel and deeply necessary for a modernization of the Catholic Church in America. We hold democratic and representative rule very near to our hearts, yet the Church always dictates and never asks. Please keep asking opinions on different topics and present aggregate findings to the Church. This is a model that can be used to better involve the laity. We believe that we are the Church, we are God's Hands, and yet we are treated like stupid sheep.

Secondly, keep the girls involved!!! As a Catholic woman raising a Catholic daughter, I think we need more opportunities, not fewer. Except for women religious, we don't have any role models for involvement. DON"T let the Church undo what tiny progress has been made. Finally, bless you for starting and maintaining a Web site to be a focal point."
Rosellen Kraus, Orlando , Florida

"We shall refuse to eliminate altar girls in our parish, and my daughter, a former professional dancer with an MFA in Dance, has a teen liturgical dance ensemble that will continue to participate in liturgies.

I must admit that applause does nothing for me. As a matter of fact, I think it takes away from the divine moment and cuts it off. We do have applause in our parish and I do not participate. As one involved in theatre, I'm fearful that we could confuse liturgy and theatre."
Gwen Johnston

"People often applaud without any thought and dance is a big part of many cultures. Would it be helpful if all the women in our churches stayed home for two full weekends and see what we would have?"
Sr. Mary

"I believe the Church needs to continually strive to eradicate the sexism that has existed for too long. I do notice that there seems to be an abundance of altar girls these days, which would point to the need for men to model their involvement in the Church so that being an altar boy remains appealing to boys.

Liturgical dance should continue. It is a valid expression of worship. In the US we have not used our bodies enough as an expression of worship. Too many Masses are so dry that it is increasingly difficult to sit through them. We need more exuberance and energy in the Mass.

Applause at Mass has always blessed me. Continue when it is appropriate. I have never been to a Mass when applause has been used inappropriately."
Amy Prudhomme

"This is ridiculous! This is the kind of thing that is driving me away from the Church. I can't believe our Church turned a blind eye to rampant pedophilia by priests - tacit institutional approval of such practices for decades. Now they are worried about dancing, poetry, and applause? No. The attempt to further exclude girls and women from meaningful participation in the Church is even more distasteful. I urge VOTF to continue to present the view of the laity so that the Church will wake up."
Jamie Cutler

"Just another example of how OUT OF TOUCH the Church leadership is. The "male" clergy in general have made a mess of things. We need more not less 'female' influence to clean it up."
Patrice Baer

"I believe that the idea of limiting girls' roles in the Church (or the roles of women in general) emphasizes Jesus' gender at the expense of His humanity. I believe that limiting expressions of human creativity and joy in our central mode of worship, the Mass, similarly denies much of the humanity that Christ experienced. For example, He attended weddings where the host ran out of wine. Even a small stretch of the imagination suggests that dancing or poetry readings (or singing) were responsible for that thirsty group (either that or we are left with an image of the historical Jesus hanging out with a purely drinking crowd).

We Catholics believe that Christ is among us humans based on our fundamental religious document, the New Testament, and the various Acts and Letters of the early Christians. Everyday observation of the behavior of other humans and honest self-reflection upon our own behavior reveals to any rational being that Jesus is among all of us, but not entirely in any one of us. Therefore, our life-long search for Christ requires us to look for him in all whom we encounter. Logically (and even statistically), this search is most complete when as many humans as possible can present themselves to others in their entirety. That entirety may take expression in someone's femininity, masculinity, ability to write poetry (or express appreciation for this talent in others), ability to dance (or express appreciation for this talent in others), or the kindness to recognize that other faiths may also give people access to God.

Therefore, whenever we deny opportunity of expression to any human, we are denying ourselves an opportunity to find Christ."
Jerry J. Cura, PhD

"We seek the more open, flexible services that are few and far-between in Charleston, South Carolina. One Monsignor evidently knows theology and rather than speak down to his congregation expects them to walk beside him as he explores unique interpretations of the day's readings. However, Bishop Baker has given his blessing to the Latinate Mass. It seems this is more significant than the dramatic changes Vatican II attempted to effect at the behest of Pope John XXIII."

"Several years ago we attended Mass in Wisconsin. To our surprise there were no kneelers in the pews. The congregation stood during consecration! Novel? Yes. Involving? Yes. Uplifting? Yes.

May the Holy Spirit descend upon you and grant you hope and fortitude to continue your vital work."
James N. Letendre

"The problem with having well-meaning applause during Mass for, say, installation of Parish Council officers or following a baptism is that you have to be consistent and fair and allow other vocal demonstrations, e. g., booing if some are inclined. We would be horrified at booing, but at ball games booing and applause are two sides of public expression. Don't think you can allow one and prohibit the other.

Yes, get rid of poetry. We had a priest who loved to read Helen Steiner Rice calling-card selections. The problem was he was aware that it was not well-received but continued to read anyway. There should be ample food for thought from the Scripture readings; that's why other Christians refer to them as lessons.

However, I don't think the Church has to be concerned about altar girls in the future. I don't think there will be that many people attending Mass. The emphasis for young people is away from the Catholic Church. Does it make me sad? Yes, it does. I am now 60 years old and still a practicing Catholic. But if I were raising my children today, I would have to think twice about raising them Catholic."
Kathleen

"As a Canadian in the Diocese of Victoria/B.C. we not only have taken Vatican II to heart but had a Synod, which supports the increasing involvement of ALL the laity. We certainly are dead against any changes that would inhibit our female altar servers from being a part of Church.

As to the non-Catholic participation, our thrust in the Cowichan Valley and in the diocese is towards more, not less ecumenical outreach. Dancing is an integral part of Judaic/Christian worship and, where appropriate, will, we state, continue - applause, likewise.

We watch with interest the movement of VOTF in the States and look forward to contacting others who might help form a 'cell' of action here."
Peter Elliott

(Ed. note - we have put Peter in touch with others in his area)

"What kind of men spend time and energy on such questions?"
Mary Lou LoVecchio

"The holy sacrifice of the Mass is not a theatre production and does not require applause or dancing. As for altar girls, this should be reserved for boys as the priesthood is. On the subject of conduct at Mass, the trading of non-Catholic ministers at each others churches for homilies is not in accord with Catholic teaching."
John R. Lang

"These proposals would take the Church ONE GIANT STEP BACKWARDS! Whatever happened to the Ecumenical movement? With the advent of altar girls (my daughter is one), the Church took one small step forward for women. The next, long overdue step is the full participation of women in the Church as priests, bishops, and even, Pope someday. As for dancing, they might as well eliminate music, too. Dancing can also be a way of worship, as is singing. What's wrong with prayerful poems and readings that aren't from the Bible? Thank you for soliciting my opinion. Will anyone in the Vatican hear me?"
Eileen M. Craffey

"I am a convert to Catholicism. I have practiced my faith for over 30 years. The trend I have seen is to become more like the Protestant religion by relaxing the rules and allowing liturgical dancing, applause, etc. I see people chatting during the Mass, children getting up and leaving to go outdoors for a little while and return when they feel like it. Half of the people no longer genuflect when they go into church. Mothers of teenagers coming into church in SHORT shorts and allowing their daughters to come in with shorts and spaghetti strap blouses with their midriffs exposed. There is an overall lack of respect for the Church and what it represents. There is no longer any sacredness attached to the Mass. One of the reasons why, I believe, is that the Church has stopped teaching proper behavior during the Mass. And having the Blessed Sacrament stuck over in some obscure corner does not help at all. In our church the Crucifix is also off to the side and the bishop's chair is front and center. The priest tells jokes and, quite frankly, it is more like a day for fun than a day for prayer and reflection. I believe the Church must put respect back into church, by teaching the rules to be observed during the Mass. In addition they should observe the rules themselves."
Jackie Slater

"To banish girls from altar service, or texts that do not come directly from Scripture, or applause or dancing, would be a serious misdirection of our call to love and serve God and our neighbor. The leadership of the Church should be looking for ways to help us live more genuinely Christian lives, which would include being open to ministers of other Christian faiths or to lay persons assisting at liturgies of various kinds. Social justice, humility, poverty in spirit, purity in hearts should be our concern, not narrowing our certification of Roman Catholic identity. Priests and bishops and faithful followers have better things to do."
Virginia Wilkinson

"Most of our servers in our small southern Church are female. As for applause, that was what I heard first when I completed the conversion process many years ago. It made me feel welcome. Thanks for your work in helping to change the Church and God Bless."

"Altar girls are fine with me, also good liturgical dancing, but poetry? Why don't we stick to the loveliest poetry of all - the Psalms? I should add that I love to go to a Gregorian Mass once in a while, too. I can do this at the 9:15 Sunday mass at Our Lady of Sorrows in Kansas City, Missouri. The church is host to a Gregorian community in addition to the "regular" pastors - a great combination."
Kay Miles, Missouri

"I barely hang onto my faith. Sometimes I think the best thing is to share your thoughts and prayers with Jesus and eliminate the middleman (formal Church) completely. That is what most of the younger generation does."
Martha

"I can do without liturgical dancing and non-Biblical readings. I don't need wine for everybody and think the 'sign of peace' is silly. I hate applause in church, except at a concert. But I think not allowing women and girls to participate as altar servers, readers, cantors or Eucharistic ministers would be totally wrong. If they do their jobs with reverence and efficiency they belong there. Keeping non-Catholics from participating is also a stupid idea. Haven't we gotten past the idea that God loves only Catholics?"

"When I read the article about the suggested changes in the Church in my local newspaper, I almost fell out of my chair. If these 'suggested' changes are approved it will only show how out of touch Rome is with the American Catholic Church.

I feel most American Catholics like the Church just the way it is. Sure, it took some time for us to accept English, Communion in the hand, and, yes, even altar-girls; but these are some of the best things that have happened in our lifetimes in our Church. Let's hope cooler and clearer heads prevail in Rome before they add more fuel to the recent scandals."

"I really see this as a feeble attempt to retain a power that has gotten out of the box. Thanks to organizations like VOTF, I do not ever see our Roman Catholic Church being put back in the box. But if the laity becomes apathetic or if we do not understand our responsibilities, little snips at our freedom will occur.

A deeper concern that I see in the article is the last item, 'There is also a proposal to inhibit pan-religious participation in the Mass, a practice that had taken root during decades of ecumenical enthusiasm in the Catholic Church. Representatives of Protestant or other non-Catholic sects should not take part in the service beside the priests, according to the proposal.'

As a baptized Christian I am baptized into the Body of Christ, not the Roman Catholic Church and not any other Christian denomination. In ecumenical weddings, it is preposterous and offensive to ask a non-Roman Catholic minister to participate in the wedding but not to allow any participation in the service beside the priest. In the Nicene Creed, a truly ecumenical creed because it was developed by the early Christian Church before any division occurred, we proclaim, 'We believe in one holy catholic and apostolic church.' In grammatically correct printing of this creed, the word 'catholic' is not capitalized. That is because the word 'catholic' does not equal Roman Catholic.

We the baptized need to claim the spirituality of our baptism. 'There is...one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.' (Ephesians 4:4-6)
Don E Siegal, Lemoore, CA, Diocese of Fresno

"One half of the Catholics throughout the world are female. How is it conceivable to consider excluding females from the same roles allowed for males during Mass? This mentality has the Church in a position now where we do not have enough priests to carry on the role of serving the parishes. Think of where the Church would be if lay people were not serving in the various ministries! A large percentage of these volunteers are in the Autumn of there years. We need to start thinking 'out of the box' to save the future of our beloved Church."
Jack

"Personally, I think that these "possible changes" are a step backwards and insult the laity once again. Not only are these changes divisive, they come at a time when our Church needs to concentrate on building community, not focusing on trivial matters. Thank you for providing this opportunity to express my views. Blessings and PEACE!"
Toni Bastoni, VOTF member in Santa Rosa, California

"I think the restriction of freedoms within the Catholic church recently show fear on the part of the governing [male] hierarchy within the Church. Dialog diminishes with fear, and dogmatic ultimatums (with the threat of being 'unfaithful' for the noncompliant) increase.

The proposed changes appear to be reactionary and based upon insecurity. The theological strengthening of the 'God-priest' coupled with the reduced participation of the 'non-priest' laity (are we now the "god-less," I wonder?) won't negate the current crisis within the Church. Resurrecting the "we vs. them" mentality is not only regressive, it is downright alienating.

We love our faith, which is why this is so disturbing. I will pray that our church management has the courage to face their fear and begin to realize that true communion is only a dialog away."
Mrs. Virginia Pierson

Regarding the buzz about eliminating girl altar servers, liturgical dance, and applause, it seems that this is an attempt to eliminate the female energy and service in our liturgy celebrations of the Eucharist. What would Jesus do? He would, without any doubt, welcome everyone and their gifts to His table. How can we survive and deal with all the serious issues of our day when our Church leaders are focusing on such demoralizing actions? God help them to wake up and fill up with the Holy Spirit! Sincerely your sister in Christ."
Mary Ann Barry, Prayerful Voice Rep., St. Theresa's VOTF, Harvard, MA

"How are they going to stop applause? Call the police? Take tapes of who is clapping and threaten them with excommunication?"
Pat Goddard

"Are burkas next? I really don't think these proposed changes will happen. I think the People of God are not going to be pushed back behind the altar rail to a passive role in THEIR Church."
Ellen Healey, Indianapolis

"The role of women and girls in ministry should not be limited. I believe that gender apartheid is just as wrong when practiced in the Catholic Church in the United States as it is when practiced by the Taliban."
Shirley Stokes, Archdiocese of Milwaukee

"Our diocesan news here in North Carolina covered the proposed changes in liturgical practice very briefly, reporting that the instruction '... recognizes a bishops authority to permit girls and women to serve at the altar BUT NEVER WITHOUT A JUST PASTORAL REASON' (caps mine). Could not the needed "reason" be that we as female are Gods own loved daughters?

At 67 years of age, I would have hoped for so much more from our bishops. But I rejoice that VOTF is, after having been birthed in enormous pain, alive and growing, and giving hope to us all. Blessings to you, VOTF."

"Bishop Thomas J. Gumbleton of Detroit has written a letter to the editor of Commonweal (Oct. 10, 2003) that is very supportive of VOTF. The bishop ends his letter by saying, 'We can only hope that Voice of the Faithful and other lay groups will have the stamina to persist in their efforts to hold the bishops accountable and to bring structural reform to the Church.' Progress comes slowly, but it will come.
John Gallagher, Westminster, CA

"Limiting the already pathetically small role of females at mass (for instance, by eliminating girl altar servers) might just succeed in finally driving me out of the Church. I say this as a woman who's been a lector almost since the admission of lay women to that function was introduced. It's one thing for us to progress slowly, quite another to destroy advances already made. What on earth (or in heaven) harm has been done by letting girls feel their Church values their assistance?

I don't have strong feelings about most of the other issues, though I've always disliked the practice of applauding during Mass. We're not an audience, and the liturgical dancers are not performing for our benefit. I once attended a demonstration of Tibetan monks chanting. Though they were on a stage in an auditorium, we were asked in the program not to applaud because the monks did not wish to shift the emphasis to themselves from That to which their chants were addressed. The tension in the silences between chants was palpable; people wanted to applaud. Not being allowed to do so made us focus on the purpose of the extraordinary sounds we were hearing. I'd like to see a similar focus maintained during mass.

The use of non-biblical readings is acceptable if their choice is carefully monitored by a trained liturgical committee. I'm strongly in favor of cooperative liturgies involving other clergy alongside priests. I favor a pluralistic approach in such situations: let different perspectives exist side-by-side rather than 'blanding down' to a single mutually acceptable prayer or ceremony. That's a matter for the pastor to decide on a case-by-case basis, though, in my opinion.

Thanks for opening this discussion. I hope our words get passed on... or upward."
Mary Rosenbaum

"I learned of these possible limitations on Monday, September 29. It felt like a slap in the face, especially because on Sunday, September 28 I served on the altar for the first time in my life as a Minister of Ceremonies, being the principal assistant to the priest at Mass.

As a child I went to daily Mass during the school year and also on Saturday in Lent. I knew all the Latin, and because my missal was English/ Latin I KNEW what the Latin meant. I knew what the altar boys did and when to do it, and I knew every movement the priest made. I was always on time, awake and alert - while the boys often were not. But I could never go and help the priest, I could not assist at Mass. I was a girl and that was that.

It took 45 years for me to assist at Mass. And the very next day I read that this tiniest of accommodations may be taken away. Discrimination is a terrible thing and that is what this amounts to. I am hurt and angry.

I also understand that another recommendation is to re-install a communion rail, keeping the priest away from the congregation. Are these really the things that senior Church leadership is concerned about???? 'Out of touch' does not begin to describe the chasm between hierarchy and laity if this is the case."
Meg Mazzeo

"Just a short note, as a Roman Catholic still in shock over the recent incidents in our Church, I just wanted to give you encouragement to continue your good work. And if and when a chapter comes to the Boca Raton, Florida area I will be in attendance.

Your group presence for this extremely good cause to save the Catholic church and the real roots of the Catholic religion is an inspiration. I have not attended Mass since the exposure of Cardinal Law and his group of merry men. I must get over it and seek a Catholic Church that has our true meaning of what religion is all about. There has to be more humility and spirituality for all. May God bless each and every one of you."

(Ed. note: We have put the writer in touch with our Florida coordinator.)

"Thanks for all you do and have done. Many active Catholics see the crying need for change. We love the message of Jesus and want to follow Him to His Father."
Nan Smith

"This level of control is counterproductive to the gospel and the movement of the Holy Spirit! VOTF is a critical movement for hope in the Catholic Church."
Janet Wortman

"My opinion is that women have an important role in the future of our Church. I honestly think we have drifted away from the beauty and solemnity of our religion. Dancing is one of my loves but I don't see its place in a church.

Attendance at Mass is somewhat of a three-ring circus at times. Children go back and forth to the bathroom to pass the time. (We didn't even know there was a bathroom in the church and if we did we would have been embarrassed to distract everyone by strolling back and forth.) People don't show reverence for the Blessed Sacrament - they talk throughout the Mass. Teenagers are bored because they don't have the opportunity to feel the sacredness of the same Mass that thousands of us felt 30 or 40 years ago. People are never admonished to dress appropriately. That would be another assault on their free will.

We Catholics used to see the need for rules, standards and good manners. Now we go with the tide of complacency. Wake up and restore the Church as it was meant to be. Priests and bishops should stand up and be counted. Today many are a disgrace to the Church and its mission. Instead of dancing in the church, look at the more important issues before it's too late. Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's and to God the beautiful things that are His. How about the beauty of the Church before Vatican II?"
Pat Hooks

More letters:

"Thank you VOTF for strengthening my belief. I waited 35 years for understanding. Keep the Voice strong."
Bob Schwiderski, a victim/survivor of Catholic Clergy sexual abuse

"A Suggestion: We have listed as a goal 'to change the Church'. At the same time we have had difficulty being accepted and recognized by our bishop. During the months of September thru December the Rockville Center Diocese, NY is holding Synod Parish Listening Sessions. The Bishop is offering to hear what the people have to say. Are we (VOTF) as an organization using this opportunity to "voice" our concerns, hopes, and dreams? Is the organization encouraging its members to attend and participate in their parishes? This is an opportunity to 'put our money where our mouth is.' Is the organization truly interested in this opportunity to be heard or is VOTF only interested in being recognized as an organization? Something to think about from a VOTF member!"

 

Prayer of the Month

(We are grateful to John Hynes, a MA VOTFer for introducing this prayer to VOTF Council members in October. The prayer is from the "Pray Every Day" chapter of Mother Teresa's book A Simple Path. It was published in 1995 by Ballantine Books, Inc., and was compiled by Lucinda Vardey.)

"Let us all become a true and fruitful branch on the vine Jesus, by accepting Him in
our lives at it pleases Him to come:
As the Truth - to be told;
As the Life - to be lived;
As the Light - to be lighted;
As the Love - to be loved;
As the Way - to be walked;
As the Joy - to be given;
As the Peace - to be spread;
As the Sacrifice - to be offered,
In our families and within our neighborhood."

 

EVENTS, ETC.

VOTF EAST

****Order your VOTF Christmas cards, sponsored by the Winchester, MA Area VOTF! The four card designs were prepared by artists in our group. Proceeds will benefit the survivor community. The back of each card invites people to learn more about VOTF by visiting the national site. A PDF version of our order form, with color pictures of each card, is available on the first page of our local web-site (www.votfwinchster.org). For additional copies of the order form for yourself or your affiliate, or if you have any questions, please e-mail Bob Morris at rmorrisvotf@aol.com. Place your order today!

**** The Diocese of Rockville Centre - Long Island, New York has begun Synod 2007 (2007 is the 50th anniversary of the Diocese). In this first phase (Parish phase) each parish will hold Listening Sessions - several sessions have been scheduled from 9/15-12/15. These offer parishioners a chance to share their hopes, dreams and concerns with the bishop and the rest of the diocese (all responses are posted on the diocesan website www.drvc.org). Phases 2 and 3 will focus, respectively, on the Deanery and Vicariate levels. Laity are involved at all levels. Parishioners in the Rockville Centre diocese should check their parish bulletins for information. Additional information can be found on the diocesan Web site, in the diocesan newspaper and may be obtained by mail from Office of the Chancellor, Diocese of Rockville Centre 50 North Park Ave., Rockville Centre, NY 11570.

**** National Pastoral Life Center's annual parish convention in NY City 11/13-15. Bps. Untener and Ramirez, Fr. Bryan Hehir, Sr. Helen Prejean and others will be speaking. Check the Web site at www.nplc.org. for additional information. This organization is considered "…the most listened to and respected organization on lay involvement in the Church within the Church," according to Susan Troy, National Chair Prayerful Voice.

****VOTF president Jim Post and Executive Director Steve Krueger will join Boston, MA affiliate representatives in a first meeting with Archbishop Sean O'Malley on November 19. Readers are asked for prayers that this meeting will be a mutual step forward in Boston's Church-laity relations. Watch the Web site at www.votf.org and this space in December for an update.

****Boston College, MA, "The Church in the 21st Century" at www.bc.edu/church21 Check out Occasional Paper #4 "Is the Church Open to Change in its Governance? Some Historical Evidence" by Fr. Michael Sheeran, S. J.

Synopsis : Father Michael Sheeran, S.J., President of Regis University (CO), highlights changes related to the selection of bishops and the election of popes that have occurred throughout the Church's history. He also discusses the contemporary American experience of a laity increasingly well-educated and competent in professional expertise but often not well-educated "in the Faith." He calls for a "new evangelization" and for greater access to significant decision-making.

****Boston College, Chestnut Hill Campus, MA on Tuesday, November 18, 2003 - Panel Discussion: "Protecting Children: Models and Best Practices," moderated by Richard Rowland, Graduate School of Social Work, 7 p.m.-9 p.m., Merkert 127 Information: 617-552-4021, Sponsor: Graduate School of Social Work

****Conference Vignettes/Reports
NH Conference, Rivier College
Submitted by Anne Southwood

A conference geared to lay Catholics was held at Rivier College in Nashua, New Hampshire on October 25 and developed a focus on hope for the future of the Church. It was clear from the beginning of this day together that it would be "roll up your sleeves and work" despite the temptation of a perfect New England Fall day outside.

Psalm 92 set the tone as the opening prayer: "It is good to give thanks to the Lord, to make music in your name. Your deeds have made me glad. For the work of your hands I shout with joy."

Keynote speaker Paul Lakeland, chair of the Religious Studies Department, Fairfield (CT) University, and author of The Liberation Of The Laity, was so connected to his audience he stayed to be part of the final panel discussion.

The Lakeland keynote stressed the apostolic responsibility of all Catholics, in the lay theology developed by the documents of Vatican II. Lakeland's remark "An ordained priest does not displace the priesthood of the laity," brought applause from the audience, which included religious. He noted that a priest is defined in relation to the laity for the first time by Vatican II. "The burgeoning sense of co-responsibility for the Church should pressure the bishops," said Lakeland. "VOTF has positioned itself well," he said, in reference to changing the Church at the "front end." He supported lay activity, saying we could be effective at the grassroots level, despite being shut out of consultation. "The community is the complete church in the local unit," said the keynoter.

Lakeland, an Englishman, related traditional American qualities like vigor to the lay movement in the Church. "Vigor is connected to vitality in the public sphere," he said. Having spent a career in teaching theology, Lakeland stressed the need to anchor the spirituality of young Catholics to the Church. "If not accessed, they will walk," said Lakeland. This idea was incorporated into two of the workshops. Theologian Maureen Sullivan, O.P., from the St. Anselm's College Theology faculty, author of 101 Questions and Answers on Vatican II, said her book was written to offset the woeful lack of students' theological knowledge. Following the example of Pope John XXIII, Dr. Sullivan stresses the importance of living as a Christian in dialogue with the world. Participants were slow to close the workshop, so contagious was her passion for the call to seek out legitimate lay roles.

In a neighboring workshop, Melissa Kelley of the Weston Jesuit School of Theology, focused on young Catholics. Dr. Kelley, whose 14 years as a campus minister complement her academic work in pastoral psychology, explored the experience of young adults as Church in our culture. Kelley was happy with the total workshop participation by those experienced with young Catholics at the parish and diocesan levels. "They are laborers in the vineyard; it is important to hear their experience - mine is never the full one," said Kelley. "They have so much wisdom, so much hope."

NY/NJ/CT Tri-State VOTF Conference, Fordham University, NY - October 25
Submitted by vignette holders

"Journalist Jimmy Breslin lumbered down the side aisle of Fordham's gym, tossing aside offers of a chair to perch on some folded bleacher seats as he listened to Eugene Kennedy's keynote speech. The 1500 attendees gave Kennedy a standing ovation and as he was leaving the stage he caught sight of his old friend Breslin. The two aging lions embraced, knowing they could both still roar when they wanted and needed to."
Ellen Vosbury, VOTF Manhattan

"It was about 6:30 am, still dark, a little chilly and very quiet when our car full of intrepid conference planners pulled up in front of McGinley Center at Fordham University on October 25th. We tossed our large, empty coffee containers in the trash and sleepily hefted boxes and shopping bags toward the conference site doorway. WAITING for us in front of the door with a huge smile and a wide-awake welcome was our first VOTF Conference participant - Ed Hill from Florida!! I knew right then, this was going to be an amazing event!"
Maria Coffey, Conference Co-Chair, New York

"Each person who attended renewed my energy and faith that Voice of the Faithful is making a difference and that we will move forward with confidence as united and devoted Catholics in the 21st Century! My deepest personal appreciation goes to all who participated in this very special gathering!"
Marie Ford Reilly, Conference Co-Chair

"I had a fine chat with Fr. Jim Sullivan at the Tri-State VOTF Conference in New York. Some of you will remember that Fr. Jim, now in his 80s, was a memorable participant at the VOTF 2002 convention in Boston. He has been active in Voice of the Ordained and in suggesting ways to make structural change effective (e.g., follow the example of the religious orders and elect leadership for fixed terms). It's always encouraging to re-connect with good friends.

Some people have wondered whether the passage of time and resistance from members of the hierarchy has sapped the strength of the VOTF movement. Based on what we saw yesterday, I don't think so!

The presence of so many people and so many new faces among those people, was a powerful testament to the yearning of the laity to "be together," share together, think together, and pray together. The personal welcome of Fr. McShane, newly installed president of Fordham University, was of great substantive and symbolic value. The quality of the presentations and the sheer presence of so many wonderful and talented speakers provided great "food for thought." And the closing Mass, drawing on so many musicians, lay ministers, and active participants provided a closing exclamation mark to a day that celebrated our presence as one VOTF community.

As VOTF approaches the end of two years of effort, we must recognize that there is no crystal-clear blueprint or plan that will chart our course. Days like this in New York, and in Cincinnati, OH recently, are vital. They provide an opportunity for the Holy Spirit to touch us and to provide energy and guidance for this movement.

That survivors, clergy, and laity were together to exchange ideas, discuss problems, and share creative ideas about how to respond to this crisis of our times underscores how clear it is that bishops continue to miss the opportunity to be among the people of the Church when they boycott such events."
Jim Post

"The VOICE OF COURAGE Award, moved my conscience deeply. Mrs. Busam is a 'Courageous Catholic Woman' and truly an authentic Christian. Afterwards I told her that our Cleveland/Akron VOTF will keep Joey in our prayers."

"I think our willingness and desire to be the adult people of God that we know we should and could be was a driving force in this day and I feel that God truly blessed that and worked through us to make that happen for a lot of people."

"I couldn't agree with you more. It is a new day in the Catholic Church and it is clear to me that the goals and mission of VOTF will play an important role in what that will eventually look like. I had an interesting exchange with our pastor as I told him about the day. He believes that change will only happen slowly, but I think it has begun to move in people's hearts and souls and that is an important step. Nativity VOTF was energized and affirmed by the day--it was truly a success in every sense of that word!"

"What a crew, what a mission we have, and isn't it wonderful to know we're not alone!" "Thanks to all the VOTF people for an insightful conference. You are doing a great job of presenting VOTF's objectives. Your speakers were outstanding. Your approach is balanced. Thanks."

"The Church was in crisis, on the verge of spiritual and meaningful decline, or a transformation, a rejuvenation of our Faith. We believe VOTF is an instrument to that rejuvenation."

VOTF CENTRAL

****TONIGHT!!! Holy Family Church, Fr. Richard Mc Brien's "The Crisis Continues: Reflections on the State of the Church," Thursday, November 13th at 7:30 PM at Holy Family Church, 2515 Palatine Road in Inverness, IL. Parish Phone: 847-359-0042

Voices, Voices Everywhere!

VOTF South

VOTF Louisville, KY Affiliate
Submitted by Paula Radmacher

Recently, we sent out 200 letters to priests of the Archdiocese (active, retired, religious order) inviting them to join us for a "listening" session on one of two different evenings. Our goal is to establish a dialogue with them and to educate them about VOTF, in general, and our group in particular. We don't know what to expect in terms of response but we are hopeful.

At our meeting, Sue Archibald from LinkUp spoke about breaking ground for their ambitious project: a small farm dedicated to becoming a place of healing and recovery for victims/survivors of abuse. There will be opportunities for us to participate in the building (in the concept of a Habitat for Humanity) as their plans go forward. We discussed planning a "survivors' supper" as a later event.

VOTF EAST

VOTF Fall River, MA
Submitted by Chris Boyd

After several unsuccessful attempts to engage Bishop Coleman in dialogue as a result of his diocesan ban of VOTF meetings in parishes, bulletin announcements, and direct contact with our organization, which he initiated in May, approximately 100 Fall River diocesan Voice of the Faithful members banded together in a coordinated effort to seek the bishop's attention and published an open letter. Without as much as the courtesy of a response to our several letters, it was time to speak out and inform our fellow Catholics of the state of affairs. As the bishop attempted to censor us by rejecting our advertising dollars for the diocesan newspaper, we published out letter in three major regional newspapers within the diocese. The text was respectful but firmly expressed our resolve along with our immediate goals.

One week later, on October 19th, we were fortunate to host a diocesan-wide event at which approximately 200 attendees heard Voice of the Faithful national President and co-founder, Jim Post. Held at the Sandwich High School, since our parishes are not available to our members, Jim's talk was excellent! Calling Bishop Coleman to account for his unfounded banning, Post challenged the bishop to live up to the vows of his office. The Cape Cod Times reported some of the lecture entitled, "The Emerging Voice of the Catholic Laity," as follows:

"Quoting from a statement in a September 2002 report issued by the U.S. Conference of Bishops, Post suggested that Coleman pay more careful attention to the views of his fellow clergy who wrote that there was a need for bishops to 'recognize and promote the dignity, as well as the responsibilities, of the laity in the church.'"

Post read from the report, "We need to confidently assign duties to them in the service of the church, allow them freedom and room for action ... so they may undertake tasks on their own initiative." He told those gathered that he was "going to put this into a letter and send it along to Bishop Coleman because he may not have heard this before."

"He needs to know that it is unacceptable to refuse to talk with the people in the diocese. The bishop has an obligation to provide a spiritual and pastoral presence in the diocese ... I would say it is immoral to tell people that they cannot meet in their own churches to talk about issues," Post said to the resounding applause of the audience.

Following the lecture, Chris Boyd, outgoing Regional Coordinator challenged the audience not to look to national leadership to ask "What are you doing about this or that?" but rather answer the question, "What are you doing about it?" He urged members to embrace the notion, "If it is to be, it's up to me!"

The new Regional Coordinator Marie Collamore also spoke and outlined her priorities. Marie will bring a renewed energy and enthusiasm to the position as she sets out to deal with our reluctant bishop and pastors, move parish voices into action toward implementing the goals, build more wide spread involvement from around the diocese in our movement, and continue to develop the intra-diocesan coordination of the laity through parish voices.

The day also included the celebration of the Mass. After great difficulty in finding a priest willing to accept the risks of joining us for Mass, one brave Jesuit welcomed the opportunity to join us in prayer around the Lord's table. Rev. Ed Vacek, S.J., of the Weston Jesuit School of Theology also had strong challenges for Bishop Coleman in his homily when he referenced the Pope's recent remark that bishops not be afraid to engage and empower their laity.

In the weeks that have followed, much press coverage has bolstered the enthusiasm of our membership in the diocese. That said, the leadership continues to plan for the opportunity to meet with the bishop. What will be their response if the bishop continues to ignore his faithful? This will be among the top priorities for discussion at the VOTF Fall River Diocesan Leadership Council meeting on Wednesday, November 12th at 7:15 p.m. at the Cape Cod Community College in the 2nd Floor Library Conference Room.

In the meantime, more revelations of apparent failings of the implementation of the highly touted procedures for the protection of our youth focus on questions surrounding the connection of a Woods Hole pastor, an inactive priest counselor, and a murder suspect and convicted child rapist who lived with the priests and may have worked for the parish.

Moreover, it has come to be known from a local pastor that nearly 60% of parishes within the diocese do not have Parish Pastoral Councils. These are the very same "existing consultative bodies" which Bishop Coleman has noted in press accounts as justification for opposition to VOTF parishioners meeting in their parishes for Parish Voice meetings. The question remains, "Will Bishop Coleman welcome the involvement of his parishioners in the healing of the Church, and in so doing, help to create a greater spirit of openness, transparency, and accountability procedures?" The months ahead promise to be interesting, challenging, and full. Stay tuned.

VOTF Holy Trinity Affiliate, Washington, DC
Submitted by Frank Lane

October was a very busy and productive month for the HT VOTF affiliate. On October 6, HT VOTF members joined with over 100 VOTF supporters from DC, Baltimore, MD and Northern Virginia to hear VOTF President Jim Post speak at T.C. Williams High School, Alexandria, VA and Our Lady Queen of Peace Church, Arlington, VA.

Post stated that it is essential for laypeople to overcome traditional apathy and become involved if the Church is to be passed on to future generations. For example, lay people must take a prominent role at all level of church finances, to promote openness and accountability and to eliminate the secrecy surrounding Church dealings with the victims of sexual abuse. Many of the victims, Post noted, have yet to come forward and he expects they will be with us for many years to come, long after many of the abusers have gone.

On October 18, the HT VOTF affiliate met to discuss current activities including the selection of Charlie Zito and Jane Johnson as Co-Chairs. For the first time, a large VOTF poster, provided by the VOTF National office in September, was prominently displayed at the speakers' podium. It was enthusiastically received by affiliate participants as a sign of emerging unity, energy and identity of VOTF at Holy Trinity.

Ruth A. Wallace was the featured speaker and discussed her recent research on lay parish leaders at parishes in the United States having no clergy as pastors. The results of her efforts are contained in her recent book, They Call Him Pastor, which focuses on twenty parishes nationwide administered by married men serving as parish leaders. She studied women lay leaders in a previous effort entitled They Call Her Pastor.

Typically, at lay-leader parishes, Sunday liturgies are celebrated by a visiting priest whose involvement in the parish does not extend beyond these worship activities. Wallace's research was conducted by means of interviews with the lay leaders, their wives and children (all of whom reside in the rectory), bishops and parishioners. She found that these leaders tended to practice collaborative leadership and that parishioners were empowered by a new sense of ownership, devoted more time to parish committees, and contributed more financial support to the parish. A key source of support for these married leaders was their formal installation in the parish church with the bishop as presider.

The next meeting of VOTF at Holy Trinity will be on November 5.

VOTF Westford Chelmsford and VOTF Central MA

A little eavesdropping on VOTF Dialogue between two affiliates - (Ed. note: Lauren Franceschi of the Westford Chelmsford, MA area VOTF sent this message to the affiliate mail list. Bob Ott, regional coordinator for Central MA, wrote the response that follows - another terrific outreach from affiliates whose commitment cannot help but encourage others.)

Here are some ideas we wanted to share with other PV Affiliates. If anyone else has Action Items and Ideas for carrying out our 3 goals that they'd like to share, we would be very interested in hearing them! - Lauren Franceschi (Westford Chelmsford Area VOTF)

MORNING VOTF MEETINGS: The Westford Chelmsford Area PV has started morning meetings in addition to our evening meetings. This allows people unable to attend evening meetings to join us. The meetings take place on Monday mornings and follow the same agenda that is used in the Monday evening meetings. Attendees are given the same VOTF news and updates and, of course, there is time allowed for a listening session and open discussion.

PUBLIC AWARENESS & SURVIVOR SUPPORT: Our PV has registered for tables at local Holiday Craft Fairs. We did this successfully last Christmas and on the Fourth of July. All proceeds of the items sold are donated to "The Survivors Appeal."

For the month of November, our Monday Morning Meeting group is using meeting times to work together making items that will be sold, while still conducting the regular meeting format of VOTF news and discussion. The group will also be selling home-baked goods, donated gift items, and of course, "Gus's famous Honey" at the Holiday Fairs.

We find that participating in these local fairs is beneficial for many reasons. First, it allows us to raise public awareness of Survivor Advocacy issues and earn money to donate to their causes. We find the general public, of all denominations, to be very generous and concerned.

We also find that being at the Fairs is great PR for VOTF. We hang our banner that we made for the 2002 Convention, wear VOTF buttons and hand out VOTF pamphlets to those who are interested. Many townspeople stop and engage us in interesting conversation and ask lots of questions about what we do, and how we are managing to help the Church through the crisis. Our presence as a fixture at the Town Fairs also allows us to be visible and accepted members of our communities by participating alongside other longstanding town organizations (such as Lions, Kiwanis, Scouts, and others.

Another advantage is that the public gets to see who belongs to our PV as we work shifts at the tables. People are not as skeptical of VOTF when they recognize us as active, honest and involved members of our parishes and communities. They see proof that VOTF is doing good, charitable work and this is needed in order to build a solid, trusted reputation in our towns.

Now is the time to register for tables at local Holiday Fairs as they usually take place in early December and they sell out their limited spaces quickly. This can be done by calling your Town Hall or Churches and Schools that host the fairs. The fees for the tables are usually nominal and the benefits are great!

Bob Ott's response:

You folks are terrific. Your enthusiasm, perseverance, and awareness of the importance of being a visible presence in the community is impressive.

I think that the hard work for Parish Voices is figuring out how to continue what we started, in what way we want to continue our presence/activity, and what kinds of action will bring people together and give Parish Voices a sense of purpose and direction. You seem to have found what works for your group. Each Parish Voice has to come up with a plan which makes sense for their members and will excite them to keep working together.

In the Central Region, we have about 8-9 parishes. As regional coordinator, I have been holding a monthly regional meeting since the Spring. The number of people coming from each parish has been impressive to me, ranging from 20 to approximately 70 and this interest has continued even throughout the summer. Our focus has included: updates about VOTF national, events on the archdiocese level, and communication among the affiliates ; support and suggestions for parishes who are unsure of what/how to maintain and "grow" their affiliates; addressing as a regional VOTF in a formal letter to Archbishop O'Malley our concerns about the closing of parochial schools with little or no involvement of the Catholic community in the planning for alternatives to the closing and offering to participate in such an effort (our inner-city parish is very concerned about this issue); holding a meeting with our parish priests; a planning group working on preparing a symposium on the role of the layperson in the Church per Vatican II; potential sharing of prayer and worship; and discussion of the VOTF Strategic Plan and what parts of that seem to be priorities for Central.

We have focused on maintaining and building connections to one another within our region, maintaining open communication with one another and about national VOTF, and preparing the ground for what we want to do as Central Region affiliates in the coming months, e.g., the symposium and shared worship. Keeping people coming together and talking/planning about what they want to do is what you folks are doing so well. We are trying to do that as a region. Thanks for sharing your activities and ideas, Lauren.

VOTF Winchester, MA
Submitted by Bob Morris

In the past month two eminent theologians inaugurated a series on, "Where Should Our Church Go From Here?" On September 29, Fr. John Baldovin, S.J., Professor of Liturgical and Historical Theology at the Weston Jesuit School of Theology, discussed, "Being a Sacramental Church." Fr. Baldovin's engaging manner, and wide-ranging interests, made for a highly enjoyable evening for the 100 persons present.

On October 20, Professor Stephen Pope of Boston College gave an extraordinary talk to 150 persons on, "The Church in Boston: Where Should We Go From Here?" Professor Pope urged us to motivate ourselves to act as agents for the transformation of the local Church. The answer to the question, Professor Pope concluded, ultimately depends on all of us.

On October 27, four leaders of the Boston Priests' Forum - Frs. Robert Bullock, Austin Fleming, Thomas Mahoney, and John McGinty - continued our series before a crowd of over 200. The evening was largely devoted to questions and answers, covering a wide range of topics. Two important points were made during the evening. First, while the Priests' Forum and VOTF are in "separate boats," we are most definitely on the "same sea." In addition, the presence of the priests at our meeting was, in Fr. Fleming's words, a "dividing line" that has been crossed.

In addition, our group met on October 6, and prayed a scriptural rosary in honor of the Feast of the Holy Rosary on October 7, and for successful implementation of the settlement with abuse survivors. This meeting served to remind us once again of the importance of prayer in our own lives and for our group.

VOTF New Jersey
Submitted by Maria Cleary

You may have noticed the change in our name. That's because we're growing! We have a new website at www.votfnj.org, with links to our Northern NJ and Southern NJ affiliates, and a link-in-waiting for our Newark Affiliate. We had our first planning meeting with the team that will spearhead the effort in the Archdiocese where we are banned. Everyone was enthusiastic, eager and full of the Spirit. We'll keep you posted on these efforts.

Our Structural Change Action Group is also moving forward with big plans. We're preparing a campaign to open a dynamic dialogue about the clergy shortage in NJ. Right now, the committee is working on a strategy and writing a "white paper" on the subject. We're banking on heavy interest in this subject, because it affects all of us, laity and clerics, young and not-so-young.

Our next meeting on November 20 should be a real treat for our members. Renowned theologian Anthony Padovano will speak on the subject "Restructuring Catholicism: An American View." Anthony is the author of 27 Books, including three award-winning plays and 150 articles. His publications have been translated into Chinese, Dutch, French, German, Italian, Portuguese, Russian and Spanish. We feel fortunate and very grateful to have so many wonderful speakers willing to share their time and expertise with us.

It was terrific to re-connect with many in our VOTF family at the Fordham University conference. What an uplifting experience, and a reminder that there are so many who still care deeply about renewing our Church.

Blessings from NJ to all our sisters and brothers throughout the world. May we all continue to grow in wisdom and grace.

VOTF CENTRAL

VOTF Chicago, IL
Submitted by Terry O'Connor

One week in the life of Chicago VOTF: On Tuesday, October 28, at St. Alphonsus Parish, Chicago, JUDGE ANNE M. BURKE, Chairperson of the Catholic National Lay Review Board presented information regarding the work of the Catholic National Lay Review Board since its appointment by the United States Catholic Bishops as the result of the clerical sexual abuse scandal at their June, 2002 conference.

On October 29, DR. EUGENE KENNEDY, Professor emeritus of psychology at Loyola University, Chicago., returned one year later to Holy Family Parish to offer a follow-up presentation on "Healing the Wound: The Sacraments and Human Sexuality." Last fall, Dr. Kennedy spoke on the topic "Pastors and People: Seizing the Moment for Reform."

VOTF WEST

VOTF San Diego, CA
Submitted by Richard Dell'Orfano

VOTF San Diego hopes to incorporate as soon as it is feasible. Meanwhile, we would like to introduce our elected officers: Interim President/Secretary, Richard M.Dell'Orfano at Weeorphan@Joimail.com,;Interim Legal Officer/CPA: Mike Magee at mmagee@utm.net; Interim Public Relations: Hal Walker at Hal_Walker@Hotmail.com; Interim Treasurer: Joe Gorsuyn at Joe@Armsd.com; Interim Membership Officer, Laura Healy at Laurasunfun@TNS.net; Interim Social Director, Kathleen Spreen at Kspreen@AOL.com. Our meetings will be held the third Saturday of each month. Our next meeting will be December 6 (due to holiday).

BEST PRACTICE - OCTOBER 2003

Submitted by Anne Southwood, Mayflower VOTF/Duxbury, MA

As a member of VOTF's Voice of Renewal, I'm advertising a recent "spiritual development" best practice on the Boston Southshore. Ben D'Aprile, Norwood VOTF leader, talked a member of his parish, Dr. Jane Regan, into opening a parish seminar to VOTF Southshore leaders.

Using her recent book as support in the Thursday summer series, (Toward an Adult Church; a Vision of Faith Formation - Loyola University Press, 2002), several of our affiliate leaders joined in and were gifted by her vision.

Dr. Regan teaches at BC's Institute for Religious Education and Pastoral Ministry and brings a fresh approach to catechists around the U.S. at the diocesan level.

To give you an idea, her seminar and book are laced with phrases like: "Transforming catechesis makes us aware of the power of the gospel in our lives." "Evangelization has to do with how we see who we are and who we belong to. At it's head, evangelization has to do with how a parish connects, lives, and makes decisions."

Regan's thesis is that catechesis is in service to the formation of an evangelizing faith community. She draws listeners to that goal by stressing the importance of adult rather than child catechesis. The steps include investigation of learning dynamics and understanding different stages of faith.

Group discussion is an integral part of her seminar, aided by focus questions. Regan stresses the need to set up vehicles for continuing high-level conversation by adults about things that matter.

It would be wonderful if those involved in Adult Faith Formation (AFF) efforts advertised and expanded those efforts within VOTF, as did the MA Southshore group. Those seriously interested, but lacking access to AFF seminars could contact me for a synopsis of the MA Southshore summer series. The MA Northshore combined parish effort in offering lay education/AFF speakers in conjunction with Boston College, is another good example of best practice communication in a region. Their flyer can be accessed on the VOTF homepage. Contact: Southwood2@aol.com

Books - For Your Review

Because of the spate of books generated by the ongoing crisis in our Church, a few VOTFers have compiled a short list of books many have read and recommend. As Jim Post says, these are the worst and best of times in at least one respect. "The crisis has created an interest among publishers in the ideas of Catholic scholars, journalists, and learned persons. The result has been a score of new and soon to be published books that illuminate the causes and consequences of the crisis. The analyses by theologians, church historians, sociologists, psychologists, and experts in religion are shedding light on some of the great questions raised by this scandal."

We invite readers to submit reviews of these books and/or others you find helpful and relevant to the achievement of VOTF goals. Send your comments to Peggie Thorp at leaderpub@votf.org.

  • Tom Beaudoin (visiting assistant professor of theology at Boston College), Consuming Faith: Integrating Who We Are With What We Buy. While you're at it, read Tom's 10/31 NCR essay "What young theologians owe their elders."

  • Peter Steinfels, A People Adrift. Steinfels finds much that called for attention even before the current crisis. The New York Times Religion correspondent considers a broad spectrum of concerns including parish worship, religious education, doctrinal development, Catholic identity and higher education.

  • Donald Cozzens, Sacred Silence - see July 2203 issue In the Vineyard

  • David Gibson, The Coming Catholic Church: How the Faithful Are Shaping a New American Catholicism. Gibson brings his award-winning religion writing to the task of examining a Church at a crossroad. His CNN documentaries on the Church as well as his years with Vatican Radio in Rome offer readers a unique and thought-provoking perspective.

  • John McGreevy, Catholicism and American Freedom - A History. McGreevy is the John A. O'Brien Associate Professor of History at the University of Notre Dame, Indiana. His examination of the role of Catholicism in America's political and intellectual development will be news to many, invaluable to most and worthwhile to all.

  • Eugene Kennedy, The Unhealed Wound. A psychologist and former priest and an award-winning author of several books and a column for the Religious News Service, distributed by the New York Times syndicate, Kennedy addresses one of the oldest and greatest stresses of Roman Catholicism: human sexuality. He studies the awkward reconciliation Catholics are supposed to effect between their sexuality and their spirituality. Kennedy suggests that both are to be celebrated. He lives with his wife in Chicago, Illinois, and Naples, Florida.

  • Paul Lakeland, The Liberation of the Laity - see July 2003 issue In the Vineyard

  • Alan Wolfe, The Transformation of American Religion: How We Actually Live Our Faith. Wolfe is professor of political science and Director of the Boisi Center for Religion and American Public Life at Boston College. His book takes a broad and illuminating look at the larger question of American culture and religion.

What Do You Think?


This month we ask readers to consider the thoughts of Thomas P.Rausch, S.J., excerpted from America magazine by Paul Kendrick co-founder of VOTF Maine. Paul's letter to VOTF president Jim Post and others precedes the America excerpt. Please send your comments to leaderpub@votf.org.

Excerpt from Paul Kendrick: As you know, Bishop Joseph Gerry will not allow certain VOTF affiliates in Maine to hold meetings on Church property. I am beginning to think, "So what?"

Many of the people who attended VOTF meetings in the past just aren't coming anymore. It's not that they don't want to be a part of the VOTF mission - they just don't want to go to meetings. I'm one of them. Weekly e-mail updates would better serve our purpose.

We need to stop demanding "permission" to gather in church basements under the VOTF banner. Instead, we need to get busy. If we truly want to participate in the "Church of the 21st Century," there is much to be done now. Using the principles of Catholic social teaching as our "conscience," we have a unique opportunity to awaken our fellow Catholics to the true mission of our church. If we are calling for more "lay participation," then let it begin with us.

Justice and accountability for victims and survivors must not only be our first priority, but must color everything we do and stand for. We must engage ourselves in personal contact with victims and their families. Being in the presence of innocent suffering will change our hearts and minds. We must speak on their behalf whenever and wherever we are called to do so. We must not be afraid. We must not care what others say and think.

It is time for us to issue a public statement telling Bishop Gerry that his banning policy has no effect on us. VOTF members are already meeting on Church property as concerned Catholics actively engaged in social justice missions.

The poor are the Church. What can we do today to help fulfill this mission? Let our fellow parishioners come to know us as the most active people in our parish. Let's set a policy among ourselves of "Attraction not Promotion," aimed not at the bishop and his lieutenants, but rather towards our fellow Catholics and parish priests.

I have come to the conclusion that whether or not Joseph Gerry "allows" us to meet on Church property no longer matters. In fact, I am more convinced than ever that by continuing to object to Gerry's actions, we are only fueling the same power and arrogance that we speak so loudly against. Each time Gerry reiterates his banning policy, he drives his thumb into us just a little bit harder. This is reminiscent of our childhoods, as when a parent or a teacher abruptly dismissed our good intentions. By caring about the bannings, we remain children. We remain the ones who are told what to do. Instead, we must rise up, become adults, rejoice in our Baptism and most importantly, fully participate in our individual parishes. Then, we are no longer banned. We are engaged in helping our Church return to it's true mission. We become a "Voice" in our parishes. Jim, your help in speaking as a strong national VOTF presence assures that our message remains clear and forceful.

America excerpt:
"Particularly lacking is a realistic vision of how VOTF might work with bishops and local churches, given the nervousness of hierarchy and pastors. There are at least three models of how V.O.T.F. might contribute in the practical order to the renewal of church structures. One sees V.O.T.F. as a structure parallel to that of the diocese, a second understands it as an advocacy or pressure group, and a third seeks to incorporate V.O.T.F. members at all levels of the life of the local church." (Thomas P. Rausch, S.J., is the T. Marie Chilton Professor of Catholic Theology at Loyola Marymount University, Los Angeles, Calif. His latest book is Who Is Jesus? An Introduction to Christology (Liturgical Press).)

November's "What Do You Think?" question: What model for VOTF will best suit our Church? Respond to leaderpub@votf.org.