“Gregor Mendel: Genetics Pioneer,” by Della Yannuzzi.
Franklin Watts, New York, 2004, 111 pages, Grades 4-6.
The Catholic Church has sometimes been attacked in recent centuries for being opposed to science. These critics would have us believe that the Church is all about faith and has little to do with reason. St. John Paul II dispelled these attacks with his outstanding encyclical, Fides et Ratio (Faith and Reason) The Holy Father brilliantly demonstrated that both faith and reason lead people to the truth, which is God.
By Father Christopher Kubat, pastor
On Easter Sunday, when St. Mary Magdalene discovered the empty tomb, she thought someone had taken the dead body of her Lord Jesus Christ away. When she saw Jesus, but did not recognize Him, Jesus said,
“Woman, why are you weeping?” She replied, “Sir, if you have carried him away, tell me where you have laid him, and I will take him away” (Jn 20:15). We know that Jesus ultimately revealed His presence to her and she left consoled.
I love walking through the lobbies of our offices where people off the street come in seeking help.
By Tom Venzor
As usual, this legislative session saw the introduction of legislation that would require some form of sexual orientation and gender identity (“SOGI”) non-discrimination. This year’s version prohibits psychologists from discriminating on the basis of SOGI. While this legislation appeals to the agreeable intention of ensuring that nobody is unjustly discriminated against, it contains fatal flaws that trample on the professional judgment and conscience rights of psychologists.
“How To Be An Elephant: Growing Up in the African Wild,” by Katherine Roy, author and illustrator.
Roaring Brook Press, New York, 2017, 48 pages, Grades 2-4.
Families are the basic structure of any society. Within families, the younger members are protected, educated and given the necessities of life. Since they are young and vulnerable, the older family members guide their lives through helpful learning experiences.
By Fr. Christoper Kubat
Catholic Social Services held its annual volunteer appreciation luncheon in Hastings Feb. 12. I estimate that 75 volunteers in Hastings made it to the event.
By Bob Sullivan
If we compare the average youth today to the average youth in 1960, we would notice that today’s youth are spending much more time in daycare, school, school sports and extracurricular activities, club sports, tournaments, dance, piano and other types of lessons, camps, clinics, recitals, etc... Matthew Kelly asks us if we are parents or chauffeurs.
When we add technology into the life of our youth, it can cause an almost total replacement of both parents and friendships because the other interests and activities of the youth typically do not shrink to allow screen time. Interaction with family and friends inevitably shrinks.
But in this particular column, I’m not going to focus on technology and media, I’m going to focus on the people who surround our children when they are at all these events and activities. Thankfully, the vast majority of people who are coaching, instructing and chaperoning our kids are looking out for our child’s best interests. In fact, most of them are concerned parents themselves. As with educators, priests and others who work with kids, the predators are rare, but the pool of potential victims is enormous.
By Tom Venzor
The legislature’s Appropriations Committee held a public hearing on pro-life language in Governor Pete Ricketts’ proposed budget Feb. 5. The public hearing was a study in contrast between Planned Parenthood supporters and taxpayers who refuse to have their tax dollars given to entities that engage in abortion.
The public hearing also demonstrated the power of a single state senator to control the destiny of certain legislative efforts. The pro-life language in the proposed budget is no exception, and your action is needed.
“Firebird: Ballerina Misty Copeland Shows a Young Girl How to Dance Like the Firebird,”
by Misty Copeland, illustrated by Christopher Myers.
G. P. Putnam’s Sons, New York, 2014, 32 pages, K-3.
“You Should Meet: Misty Copeland,” by Laurie Calkhoven, illustrated by Monique Dong.
Simon Spotlight, New York, New York, 2016, 48 pages, Grades 2-4.
By Father Christopher Kubat
The Universal Church celebrated the memorial of St. Agatha, virgin and martyr Feb. 5.
St. Agatha was born in Sicily around the year 231, at a time in the Church when it was illegal to practice the Catholic faith. It is said that her beauty attracted many suitors. Cooperating with the promptings of Jesus by the inspirations of the Holy Spirit, she accepted the divine invitation to live a celibate life as a consecrated virgin. One suitor would have nothing of it. His name was Quintianus.
By Bob Sullivan
In December, I wrote a column titled “Sexual abuse in America.” The column was about the clergy abuse scandal that occurred in the Catholic Church in the 1960s and 1970s.
My column pointed out that the scandal was misconstrued by those hostile to Catholicism, and that since that time, the Church has vastly improved regarding the protection of children. The improvement is unmatched by other large institutions in the U.S., but rarely mentioned in the media. The scandal was so shocking that it still comes up frequently today, and often involves significant inaccuracies.
To bring harm to the innocent is 100% contrary to the Gospel and, therefore, 100% contrary to the teachings of the Church. But this prohibition against harm is not limited to Catholics. It applies to everyone.
Could the media and our federal government be ignoring much larger sex abuse scandals in the United States? Do we blithely accept scandals that impact millions of children in our country every day? For instance, is it possible that sexual misconduct in our schools, known as educator sexual misconduct (ESM), is overlooked due to the attention given to the clergy abuse scandal?
By Tom Venzor
As Catholics, we have the duty to be informed, stay engaged, and make our voices heard in politics. While this is a formidable task, our Lord provides the grace-filled opportunities we need to be salt and light for our political society as we seek to build the common good. As I have frequently quoted Pope Francis: “If indeed ‘the just ordering of society and of the state is a central responsibility of politics,’ the Church “cannot and must not remain on the sidelines in the fight for justice’” (Evangelii Gaudium, no. 183).
One such opportunity is Catholics at the Capitol which takes place Thursday, Feb. 15, at the Cornhusker Marriott Hotel in Lincoln. The event begins with free registration at 8 a.m.—coffee and rolls will be served. Prayer begins at 8:30 a.m. led by Bishop James Conley.
“Mr. Lemoncello’s Library Olympics,” by Chris Grabenstein.
Random House, New York, 2016, 278 pages, Grades 4-6.
By Father Christopher Kubat
On Wednesday, Jan. 17, I had the privilege of celebrating the 8:15 a.m. school Mass at St. Teresa in Lincoln. I was invited to celebrate the Mass and preach about St. Gianna’s Women’s Homes, in anticipation of Catholic School’s Week.
Prior to offering this Mass, I learned that the student council voted to conduct a fund drive for St. Gianna’s. Each year, the school does a few projects for needy causes to raise awareness in the minds of the students of those of us who are less fortunate.
By Tom Venzor
Two legislative bills on education choice each had important moments in the legislature last week. LB295 now has a senator committed to prioritizing the legislation, thereby ensuring that tax credit scholarship bill will be debated by the whole legislature.
LB804, a bill that allows families to more responsibly save for K-12 tuition expenses, received a public hearing. Both bills give families more robust freedom in choosing an education best suited for their child.
By Father Christopher Kubat
A few days ago, a woman called me to thank us. She said if it was not for Catholic Social Services, she would not have been able to escape a man who abused her for more than 30 years.
I, in turn, must thank all of our supporters, for without your help, we would not have been able to help her.
By Bob Sullivan
The “orans posture” is the posture of the priest during certain parts of the Mass, including the Our Father. He stands with his hands out, palms up and elbows bent. Until recently, the priest was the only person using the orans position during the Mass. Slowly, that has begun to change and well-meaning people disagree as to whether this change is good or bad.
By Tom Venzor
This legislative session, our state legislature will consider a vitally important pro-life policy proposal: keeping taxpayer dollars away from organizations that support abortion. This common-sense, pro-life proposal will undoubtedly be a highlight of this year’s legislative session. The following provides some basics about the policy—and, as always, invites you to advocate on behalf of the unborn.
“Nanette’s Baguette,” by Mo Willems, author and illustrator.
Hyperion Books for Children, New York, 2016, 32 pages, Grades K-3.
By Father Christopher Kubat
I am happy to announce that Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska is holding its 15th annual Trumpet Fest Sunday, Feb. 11 at Pius X High School in Lincoln, at 3 p.m.
As in past years, it is being held in memory of Mac McCune and Dennis Schneider. A hat will be passed during the intermission for a free-will offering. All proceeds will be used to help the many needy individuals and families that come to us in crisis.
By Bob Sullivan
Travel has been one of my hobbies for the past 25 years. At first, I was interested in seeing mountains, beaches, oceans, and famous cities. I saw amazing things and experienced a lot of different cultures, but each time, I always felt like something was missing. About seven years ago, something happened that changed the way I look at travel today.
In July 2011, we set out for a family trip. Our children were all pretty young, and we had never driven further than Kansas City with the entire family (seven of us in all) in one vehicle. Therefore, I did not set any concrete plans about where we would go and how far we would try to drive each day. Maybe we would make it to Glacier National Park and maybe we would turn around at North Platte and return home. We had planned to be gone for two weeks, which meant that we had to find a Catholic Church on at least two occasions during our trip.
It was the second Mass where I realized that my family had an amazing ability to evangelize people. We walked into a Catholic church in Eureka, Calif. (yes, we made it to Glacier National Park, then kept going). The people in the church were excited to see a family at Mass and after Mass, several people, including the priest, came up to talk to us. We were sharing the joy of Christ by simply going to Mass.
By Tom Venzor
Last week’s Southern Nebraska Register featured a Q&A on LB295. LB295 is a legislative bill that provides more scholarship opportunities for low-income and working-class families to choose a parochial or private education for their children. If you have not yet read the Q&A, please do at this link.
To build on the Q&A, I want to call each and every one of you to action. I challenge you to contact your state senator. Low-income and working-class families are relying on us to help them experience educational freedom. To assist, this column will provide a roadmap for contacting your state senator. Notably, you can use this roadmap for any legislative issue!
“This Land Is Our Land: A History of American Immigration,”
by Linda Barrett Osborne.
Abrams Books for Young Readers, New York, 124 pages, Grades 5-7.
By Fr. Christopher Kubat
I am sure many of us know of the calling of the great prophet Samuel. His mother Hannah was suffering from infertility and promised the priest Eli if she conceived a son, she would give him to the Lord.
God answered her prayer and she gave birth to Samuel, whom she gave to Eli in the service of the Lord. It was Samuel who anointed David King of Israel.
By Tom Venzor
Before jumping into this week’s column, a few upcoming events demand attention.
“Grand Canyon,” by Jason Chin.
Roaring Book Press, New York, 56 pages, Grades 2-4.
By Fr. Christopher Kubat
“He who reaps receives wages, and gathers fruit for eternal life, so that sower and reaper may rejoice together. For here the saying holds true, ‘One sows and another reaps.’ I sent you to reap that for which you did not labor; others have labored, and you have entered into their labor” (Jn 4:36-38).
Early last year, I received a call from John Hansen about a woman who was interested in entering the Catholic Church. After taking the call, he informed me she was elderly and in fragile health.
By Tom Venzor
Throughout Nebraska there are low-income and working-class families who desire to send their child to parochial or private school, but lack the financial means to exercise this educational choice. For example, in 2017, the Children’s Scholarship Fund of Omaha provided 1,803 scholarship opportunities for low-income families to access private or parochial education. Regrettably, they also turned away hundreds of families for lack of scholarship funds. And while our three dioceses and parochial school systems do tremendous work to give every kid a chance at a faith-based education, it is not always financially possible to provide for every student.
“The Three Kings: The Journey of the Magi,”
by Geraldine Elschner. Pictures by various artists from the Renaissance.
Minedition, Hong Kong, 2016, 32 pages, Grades 1-4.
By Fr. Christopher Kubat
In the fourth chapter of his first letter, St. John the Evangelist tells us that God is love and that the evidence of our love of God is our love of neighbor, and the evidence of our love of neighbor is our acts of charity for them. Jesus Himself said, “Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brethren, you did it to me” (Mt 25:40).
By Tom Venzor
This column originally appeared in the Southern Nebraska Register Dec. 22, 2017.
George Frideric Handel’s famed oratorio, Messiah, recounts—in a musically dramatic way—the life of Jesus Christ. In Part I, Handel relies on the prophecies of Isaiah, reminding us of God the Father’s promise to Israel—and all the nations—that a Lord will be given to them to rule in justice and peace. Particularly, Handel draws from Isaiah 9:6 which foretells the birth of the Messiah: “For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given, and the government shall be upon His shoulder.”
As we celebrate the birth of Jesus, we would do well to consider the implications of this decisive fact of human history for our political life. Do we place government on the shoulders of the Christ Child, who has fulfilled the prophecies of Isaiah? Does Christ shoulder the burdens and evils of our politics? Do we allow Christ to be the foundation for our government? Or do we put our hopes in false messiahs, the political demagogues of our day?
“The Nativity,” by Geraldine Elschner
Pictures by Giotto. English translation by Kathryn Bishop
Minedition, Hong Kong, 2015, 32 pages, Grades K-3.
By Father Christopher Kubat
“Joseph also went up from Galilee, from the city of Nazareth, to Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and the lineage of David, to be enrolled with Mary his betrothed, who was with child. And while they were there, the time came for her to be delivered. And she gave birth to her first-born son and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn” (Lk 2:4-7).
I am sure we are all familiar with this story of Joseph and Mary frantically looking for a place to stay. It was an urgent need because Mary was ready to give birth to the Christ Child, the Savior of the world.
Just days ago, while walking through our lobby, I greeted an elderly couple who had lost everything except the clothes on their backs in a house fire. Luckily, they have a place to stay temporarily. However, they were there looking for assistance as they start over from scratch.
By Tom Venzor
Last week, the U.S. Supreme Court heard oral arguments in the case of Masterpiece Cakeshop, Ltd. v. Colorado Civil Rights Comm’n. Masterpiece represents a watershed moment for free speech and religious liberty rights and the legal protections that some states have offered for sexual orientation and gender identity. The case illustrates the ideological clash between differing views on marriage and human sexuality. In addition to the background facts, there are a couple points worth consideration.
By Dr. Terrence Nollen
Dear Readers: I hope that you have enjoyed the “Children’s Literature Bookshelf” during the past year. Buying books for your children, grandchildren, or nephews and nieces can be one of the most pleasant Christmas activities of the season.
By Fr. Christopher Kubat
“On this mountain the Lord of hosts will make for all peoples a feast … He will swallow up death for ever, and the Lord God will wipe away tears from all faces” (Is 25:6-8).
These beautiful words in the book of the prophet Isaiah attempt to describe what those who have saved their souls with the grace of God will experience in heaven.
Notice God did not promise we will not have tears in this life, but that He would eventually wipe them away. In other words, God never said He would take our crosses away in this life, but that He would help us carry them.
By Bob Sullivan
This is a story about a guy named Ed. Ed is a fictional character, but his story illuminates a serious problem in Christianity today.
By Tom Venzor
The liturgical season of Advent invites us into the dramatic moment of salvation history: the Incarnation of the God-Man, Jesus Christ. During Advent, we consider how Israel anxiously awaited the Messiah and how we can better prepare for the Second Coming of Christ in Glory. At the Nebraska Catholic Conference, we are also preparing for another advent—the advent of the 2018 legislative session.
“Saint Francis and the Christmas Donkey,” by Robert Byrd.
Dutton Children’s Books, New York, 2000, 32 pages, K-3.
By Father Christopher Kubat
When Jesus looked up, he saw some wealthy people putting their offerings into the treasury. Then, he noticed a poor widow putting in two small coins. He said, “I tell you truly, this poor widow put in more than all the rest; for those others have all made offerings from their surplus wealth, but she, from her poverty, has offered her whole livelihood” (Lk 21:1-4).
Recently, while reading this gospel passage, I thought of an encounter I had with a homeless man in search of food on a chilly evening. While walking through our lobby after office hours, I spied a homeless man peering through the window. I soon learned what he was looking for. He was hungry and was looking for something to eat.
Apologetics by Bob Sullivan
What do you say when you are talking about faith and someone uses the clergy sex abuse crisis to criticize the Catholic Church? They might say, “Why would I listen to a bunch of pedophile priests?”
By Tom Venzor
“Oh, what happiness would be ours if all men, individuals, families, and nations, would but let themselves be governed by Christ!”
These words were written by Pope Pius XI on December 11, 1925, in his encyclical Quas Primas, which instituted the solemn liturgical feast we recently celebrated: Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe. Though nearly a century old, the truth of these words; in fact the whole of Quas Primas resonates across time and space, providing sound guidance for our own cultural and political situation. Following some introductory context, three points, in particular, demand attention.
“Dive! World War II Stories of Sailors & Submarines in the Pacific,”
by Harry Allard, illustrated by Deborah Hopkinson.
Scholastic Press, New York, 2016, 367 pages, Grades 7-9.
By Fr. Christopher Kubat
Yesterday, before I typed these words, two men walked through our doors asking to speak to “the father.”
At Catholic Social Services, we have case workers that meet with clients who come in requesting help of some kind, whether it be emergency services, food, clothing, furniture or vehicles. Sometimes, people want to talk to me in order to ‘bypass’ the system.
By Tom Venzor
This time of year prompts an opportunity to consider the meaning of ‘thanksgiving’ and how it can fundamentally impact our life and our view of the world. In particular, thanksgiving and gratitude, stemming from an intimate relationship with the Eucharist, can impact our view of politics.
“The Three Billy Goats Gruff” by Jerry Pinkney.
Little, Brown and Company, New York, 2017, 32 pages, Grades K-3.
Classic fables and fairy tales hold the fascination of readers because they reveal important lessons about the need to be truthful and charitable towards others.
In these morality stories, readers are exposed to some characters acting selfishly. These creatures are easily seen for their lack of virtue and young children instinctively know not to trust them. Other actors in the drama are trying to achieve something good. The bad characters try to stop good individuals from achieving these beneficial goals.
By Fr. Christopher Kubat
Just days ago, St. Gianna’s held their annual Thanksgiving dinner. For those who may not know, St. Gianna’s is a 24-apartment home for women escaping abortion and domestic violence. It is run by the Marian Sisters of the Diocese of Lincoln.
By Bob Sullivan
Did you ever have a newcomer move into your town or neighborhood?
A decade or so before I was born, my parents met a new guy in town. He could not move around well or take care of himself, but he was a gifted storyteller. My family was so enamored with him they actually invited him to live with us so we could take care of him.
From the start, he was accepted as a member of the family. Everyone in town talked about him fondly and asked us about his latest stories. As I grew up I never questioned whether he belonged in our family, because he was a part of our family before I was even born.
By Tom Venzor
Recently, I attended the Catholic Medical Association’s (CMA) annual educational conference, Medicine at the Service of Marriage and Family: Transforming the Culture with Truth and Love. The conference provided insight into the innumerable ways that our Catholic healthcare professionals are creating an authentically Christian culture in the medical profession. The conference contained some lessons for us all as we seek to influence culture and politics.
“Revolution is Not a Dinner Party” by Ying Chang Compestine.
Henry Holt and Company, New York, 2007, 249 pages, grades 5-7.
By Fr. Christopher Kubat
Pope St. Leo the Great became the Supreme Pontiff in the year 440. In his 21 years as Holy Father, he battled heretics inside and outside the Church and confronted barbarians (including Attila the Hun) who wanted to destroy Rome.
In one of his famous sermons, he reminds us that from our baptisms, we all have royal and priestly characters in our souls which, although different from the ordained priesthood, share some common characteristics.
By Bob Sullivan
If you are Catholic, you have heard of the “New Evangelization.” Pope Leo XIII came up with the concept that St. John Paul II re-introduced a little more than 100 years later.
But neither pope had to contend with something with which the Church has had to contend for most of its existence: The illiteracy of the people.
For the first 1,400 years of Christianity, illiteracy was a reality for a large portion of the population of the world. In the late 1400s, that began to change due to the invention of the printing press (1440s), as well as advancements in education. There are numerous estimates as to the literacy of Europeans in 1500, but the best way to describe it is that ‘most’ Europeans were still illiterate in 1500.
Today, most Europeans and most Americans are literate. To be literate means one has the ability to read and write. As we look back in time, the literacy rate increases. Illiteracy, as it is traditionally defined, still exists in the world, especially in very poor developing countries, but worldwide, the population of the planet is much more able to read and write than the population in the past.
Unfortunately, the ability to read and write has not necessarily resulted in a willingness to read and write. Even though our schools are creating, year after year, graduates who are able to read books, including the classics that have helped develop civilization, fewer and fewer people are taking advantage of this skill. The sad fact is, technology has created a generation who has lost interest in reading books, booklets and even blogs and long articles.
By Tom Venzor
Judges typically fly below the political radar screen. While judges sometimes steal the political spotlight (e.g., [anticipated] vacancies on the U.S. Supreme Court during a presidential election), political commentary usually takes little interest in judges. This seems to hold true with the appointment of lower federal court judges. Unlike vacancies on the U.S. Supreme Court, vacancies on lower federal courts garner little to no attention in political news cycles—but not always.
Recently, President Donald Trump nominated, among others, two individuals to federal judgeships: Amy Barrett and Steve Grasz. The confirmation hearing processes reveal the sustaining presence of anti-Catholic prejudice and animus toward pro-life values, respectively.
“When Daddy Prays,” by Nikki Grimes, illustrated by Tim Ladwig.
Eerdmans Books for Young Readers, Grand Rapids, Mich., 2002, 32 pages, K-3.
By Fr. Christopher Kubat
If a million people tried walking through our doors asking for help, we could not help them all. I often think about the words my predecessor Father Joseph Walsh said to me as he passed the baton of CSS to me: “Remember, you cannot spend money you do not have!”
Recently, I met a single mother with three small children. They were happy to have received winter coats from the KC coat giveaway held at our main office, our beautiful St. Joseph Center. After talking with her she related that she had lost her job and was in need of rent assistance. Knowing we were at our budgetary limit for the month, a man I know wrote a check to CSS to cover the amount.
By Tom Venzor
On Tuesday, Oct. 3, the United States House of Representatives passed the “Pain-Capable Unborn Child Protection Act” by a vote of 237-189. Afterward, the legislation was introduced in the United States Senate. While the legislation has no chance of passing through the Senate, the bill’s passage in the House marks a significant pro-life victory and sheds further light on the brutality of abortion.
“Miss Nelson is Missing,” by Harry Allard, illustrated by James Marshall.
Houghton Mifflin, New York, 1977, 32 pages, Grades K-2.
By Fr. Christopher Kubat
I am sure many of you are familiar with the story of St. Martin of Tours. He was born in present-day Hungary, shortly after Christianity was de-criminalized with the Edict of Milan in 313 by Emperor Constantine.
By Tom Venzor
This year’s Respect Life Program theme, “Be Not Afraid,” was recently announced. The Respect Life Program’s purpose is to “help Catholics understand, value, and become engaged with supporting the God-given dignity of every person—which naturally leads to protecting the gift of every person’s life.” As previously stated, my October columns are dedicated to the theme “Be Not Afraid.” This column focuses on protecting all those that we find on the peripheries and margins of life, especially the immigrant and imprisoned.
“The Tragic Tale of the Great Auk,” by Jan Thornhill.
Groundwood Books, Toronto, 2016, 44 pages, Grades 2-4.
By Father Christopher Kubat
Long ago, an uncle said to me at a funeral, “It’s a shame we only see each other at weddings and funerals!” I’ve often recalled those words.
Apologetics by Bob Sullivan
The culture around us is moving further and further away from God. Well-funded groups publicly denounce God, while promoting hedonism, consumerism and immorality. Some groups even lobby for laws and file lawsuits to force Christian images, monuments and expressions out of the public realm. They also force doctors and emergency pregnancy centers to provide contraception and abortion referrals. Some states now require florists, photographers and bakers to help celebrate lifestyle choices that fly in the face of their personal faith in God.
Yet the vast majority of Americans believe in God, profess Christianity and recognize the First Amendment’s protection of our freedom to express our religious beliefs. The problem is, fewer and fewer of us are comfortable expressing our faith outside the four walls of our home or our church. Too many Christians misinterpret the meaning of a “personal” relationship with Christ to mean a “private” relationship. Jesus did not suffer humiliation, torture and an agonizingly painful death so I can safely have a secret friendship with Him.
By Tom Venzor
This year’s Respect Life Program theme is “Be Not Afraid.” The Respect Life Program’s purpose is to “help Catholics understand, value, and become engaged with supporting the God-given dignity of every person—which naturally leads to protecting the gift of every person’s life.” As previously stated, my October columns are dedicated to the theme “Be Not Afraid.” This column focuses on protecting all those that we find on the peripheries and margins of life, especially the poor and disabled.
Before reflecting on those living on the peripheries, it is important to consider the scope of the Respect Life Program. The Respect Life Program draws our attention to the issue of human dignity, in its broadest sense. It can sometimes seem like our attention and work focuses on abortion, physician-assisted suicide, and euthanasia, to the detriment of other social justice issues. While there is certainly good cause to give primary attention to issues like abortion, physician-assisted suicide, and euthanasia, it is critical that we address other threats to human life.
“Gaston” by Kelly Dipucchio, illustrated by Christian Robinson.
Atheneum Books for Young Readers, New York, 2014, 32 pages, grades K-2.
By Christopher Kubat
Last January, I was fortunate and privileged to lead a pilgrimage to the Holy Land, often referred to as the “fifth gospel.” We were blessed to have as our guide Father Peter Vasko, OFM. He has led many pilgrimages to the Holy Land and his theological, geographical, cultural and archeological knowledge of the area is hard to match.
By Bob Sullivan
A few weeks ago, a Catholic bishop was invited to give a talk at the corporate headquarters of Facebook in Menlo Park, Calif. This is amazing because Facebook’s corporate identity is blatantly adverse to Catholicism, and the corporate ideology of Facebook is one of secularism and moral relativism.
The bishop they invited was none other than Bishop Robert Barron, who is known for his eloquent explanation of the Gospel, and for his highly intellectual approach in doing so.
Therefore, this was not some invitation to a media darling who turns Christianity into a lukewarm system of options so secularists can feel like they are on the right track with or without God. This was an authentic meeting between the world and the word of God, through a bishop who provides an authentic and faithful explanation of the Catholic faith.
By Tom Venzor
This year’s Respect Life Program theme, “Be Not Afraid,” was recently announced. The Respect Life Program’s purpose is to “help Catholics understand, value, and become engaged with supporting the God-given dignity of every person—which naturally leads to protecting the gift of every person’s life.” As previously stated, my October columns are dedicated to the theme “Be Not Afraid.” This column focuses on protecting the human dignity of those nearing death.
In Robert Bolt’s famous play about St. Thomas More, A Man for All Seasons, More attempts to console his daughter, Margaret, before his death, stating: “Death comes for us all; even at our birth—even at our birth, death does but stand aside a little. And every day he looks toward us and muses somewhat to himself whether that day or the next he will draw nigh. It is the law of nature, and the will of God.”
“The Magic Tree House #1: Dinosaurs Before Dark,” by Mary Pope Osborne.
Random House, New York, 1992, 66 pages, Grades 3-4.
Finding chapter books for beginning readers is always a difficult issue. Beginners do not have highly developed reading skills, but have a high desire to start reading. One way authors attend to this need is to create books based on a formula. Well-known formula series include the Hardy Boys and the Nancy Drew books, or The Babysitter’s Club. Formula books are written to create high interest rather than high literature. As a result, they are the perfect choice for children in the middle grades.
By Fr. Christopher Kubat
I am happy to announce that Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska will hold our 11th annual Bishop Glennon Flavin Memorial Sporting Clays Tournament Nov. 11 at Oak Creek Sporting Club (near Brainard).
As in previous years, all the proceeds will be used to serve poor and needy individuals and families who come to us in need across the 24,000 square miles of the Diocese of Lincoln.
By Tom Venzor
Last week, I announced this year’s Respect Life Program theme: “Be Not Afraid.” The Respect Life Program’s purpose is to “help Catholics understand, value, and become engaged with supporting the God-given dignity of every person—which naturally leads to protecting the gift of every person’s life.” Because of the Respect Life Program’s importance, all my October columns are dedicated to the “Be Not Afraid” theme. This column will discuss the theme in relationship to our duty to protect unborn human life.
While there are numerous ways to fearlessly defend unborn human life, I want to focus on three specific ways: attentiveness to language; attentiveness to the mother; and attentiveness to the healing process.
“A Night Divided,” by Jennifer A. Nielsen.
Scholastic Press, New York, 2015, 317 pages, Grades 5-7.
By Fr. Christopher Kubat
As many of you know, we have two sack lunch programs in the Diocese of Lincoln. Our first started in Hastings with the cooperation of other organizations and denominations. At our annual Bountiful Harvest Banquet in Hastings, which celebrates what CSS does in the greater Hastings area and beyond (including the western part of the diocese), I reported that last year around 40,000 sack lunches were distributed out of our Hastings office to poor and needy individuals and families. For those who are living paycheck to paycheck, imagine the savings if one meal a day is provided! Our second sack lunch program is up and running in Lincoln to the tune of 10,000 lunches last year.
Many of those who receive these meals are regular customers. Recently, in Hastings, a little 4-year-old girl, after receiving a lunch and holding it tightly with both hands, looked with her big innocent eyes at our receptionist Susan and said, “I love you!” Needless to say, Susan’s heart melted, like mine did when she told me about it.
By Tom Venzor
Every October, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Secretariat for Pro-Life Activities issues a new theme for the Respect Life Program. The purpose of the Respect Life Program is to “help Catholics understand, value, and become engaged with supporting the God-given dignity of every person—which naturally leads to protecting the gift of every person’s life.” The 2017-2018 Respect Life Program theme is “Be Not Afraid.”
My October (Respect Life Month) columns will be dedicated to various “Respect Life” topics. This column will discuss the indispensable fact of our God-given human dignity, the importance of getting human dignity right, and the critical need to fearlessly proclaim the truth of our human dignity.
“Terror at Bottle Creek,” by Watt Key.
Macmillan Publishing Company, New York, 2016, 213 pages, Grades 5-7.
Adventure stories are exciting to read. They grip the readers from beginning to end. We identify with the main characters and enter into the world created by the author.
Adventure novels are usually set around a series of dramatic events. Many times these are acts of war or frightening natural events. Watt Key has written such a novel in “Terror at Bottle Creek.” Here we will experience a savage hurricane ravaging the Gulf Coast of Alabama and, people trying to escape the fury of the storm. As well, readers will come to see great acts of love and courage in an unforgiving environment.
By Fr. Christopher Kubat
As you know, the flooding from Hurricane Harvey destroyed many businesses and homes in Houston, and the winds and flooding from Hurricane Irma did the same in many cities and rural areas of Florida. At the time of writing this column, the death toll from Hurricanes Harvey and Irma is 60 and 73 respectively. The exact number of injured and homeless people of course is much larger.
In addition to this, the damage and devastation in Puerto Rico, Cuba and the islands in the Caribbean cannot be adequately described. Those who have lost a home to a tornado, fire or some other natural or man-made disaster understand what it is like to literally lose everything.
By Bob Sullivan
Sooner or later, you are going to find yourself discussing the existence or non-existence of God with an atheist or an agnostic.
Atheists deny the existence of God. Agnostics are doubtful or uncertain whether God exists. Anti-deists actually believe that God exists, but they dislike God. Many Satanists are actually anti-deists.
Hopefully the conversation is not with one of your own children or your spouse. But even if it is, there is one fundamental rule of engagement that can help you keep the conversation from deteriorating into nonsense (though this is difficult on many occasions).
By Bob Sullivan
There are numerous scientific and logical approaches which provide significant evidence for God’s existence. As I mentioned in an earlier column, the arguments are not conclusive on the issue. A skeptic can remain a skeptic all the way to Judgment Day. All we can do is offer evidence that a reasonable skeptic (yes, they do exist) may someday accept as the basis for belief.
By Tom Venzor
United States Department of Education Secretary Betsy DeVos visited Nebraska Sept. 13-14. Secretary DeVos’ visit was part of her “Rethink Schools” tour. The tour’s purpose was “to highlight the innovative and groundbreaking work happening in schools across America” and “showcase creative ways in which education leaders are meeting the needs of students in K-12 and higher education.”
Secretary DeVos visited several select schools in Nebraska, one of which was St. Mary Catholic School in Lincoln. In addition to its diverse and gifted student population, one of the main reasons Secretary DeVos visited St. Mary’s was its participation in the “EC3 Academy” which is a program created by Dan Alberts.
“Sachiko: A Nagasaki Bomb Survivor Story” by Caren Stelson
Carolrhoda Books, Minneapolis, 2016, 144 pages, Grades 5-7.
In the past year, North Korea has repeatedly advanced its atomic program through missile launches and nuclear explosions. These are reckless tests that will not bode well for North Korea, or for the rest of the world.
By Fr. Christopher Kubat
Last week, I traveled to St. Louis for the annual meeting of the Equestrian Order of the Knights and Ladies of the Holy Sepulchre. Early the first day, I decided to go for a jog on the trail in front of the hotel next to the St. Louis Arch.
After rising, I prayed for some mental enlightenment because I knew I needed to write my Seedlings column! I prayed with confidence because the Lord always answers this weekly prayer. The added bonus was that this trail is near the Basilica of St. Louis, King of France. Since it was open for early morning Mass, I was able to make a visit.
Running around the track (albeit slowly), I spied a young man sitting on one of the concrete benches. I noticed that his head was bowed down low. Since it was a beautiful morning there were others walking and running, many right past this young man.
By Tom Venzor
Before I jump into my article, I encourage everybody to attend the annual Bishops’ Pro-Life Banquet and Conference (Sept. 29-30) in Lincoln. You can find more info and register at www.necatholic.org.
Back in the day, I served as a youth minister in Schuyler for nearly a decade. Not only was it transformative in my love of Jesus Christ, I received crucial formation and mentoring from my parish priests and fellow youth ministers. I was also deeply formed and touched by my experience with the teenagers in our Life Teen youth ministry program.
Many of the teens were Latino and came from documented immigrant families. Some of these teens were undocumented immigrants and brought to the United States as infants and children.
“The Farewell Address” by George Washington.
Widely available in books and on the Internet. 1793, 12 pages, Grades 9 and higher.
After the Revolutionary War, General George Washington resigned his commission as the head of the Continental Army and retired to his estate in Mt. Vernon, Virginia. He happily managed his estate and wrote voluminous correspondence with important people of the day.
But his peace was constantly interrupted by friends, political leaders and events in the United States. Time and time again, he was called upon to solve national events. This eventually led to him being elected president of the United States. After two terms in office, Washington decided to completely retire from public life. But before leaving, he penned a farewell address to the citizens of the United States that he had served so faithfully throughout his life. “The Farewell Address” is one of the most famous documents in American history. While it is very short, the address requires sustained attention, as it is filled with insights.
Not long ago, while walking through the lobby of one of our offices, I spied a young man who, after entering the front door, made a beeline to the receptionist. He looked like someone who was about to ask for assistance of some sort.
By Father Christopher Kubat
Instead of asking for help, he had another mission. Since I was in earshot, I overheard their conversation.
“Where can I go or who can I visit with in order to make a donation?” he asked. Seeing me nearby, the receptionist pointed at me and said, “You can talk to Father.”
The young man then took a few steps toward me and, after pulling his wallet out, slipped me a 20-dollar bill while saying, “I just want to give back!”
He then related how we had helped him out of homelessness.
“A Poem for Peter,” by Andrea Davis Pinkney, illustrations by Lou Rancher and Steve Johnson
Viking Press, New York, 2016, 52 pages, Grades 3-5.
Literature is able to break through barriers and help people understand others. Today, the world of children’s literature is very multicultural and nurturing. But in the early 1960s this was not the case. Minority characters were simply not in most children’s books. I don’t believe that this occurred because of some type of conspiracy against minorities, but because of a cultural blindness about who should be portrayed in children’s literature.
By Fr. Christopher Kubat
A number of years ago, we fielded a call from someone we knew in the western part of the Diocese of Lincoln regarding a lady who was threatened with a gun in her face while being attacked by her husband. Law enforcement became involved and while he was in jail, we re-located the woman and her children temporarily in the greater Hastings area to get her out of harm’s way. We could only do this because of the generosity of our supporters.
Because of the increasing need to support women who are escaping, along with their children, the pressures to abort their unborn babies and domestic violence, we have and are planning on expanding our services to women in need in the central and western part of the diocese, under the patronage of St. Gianna.
By Tom Venzor
I met Jonathan Alexandre last legislative session on a frigid February afternoon. My first impressions of Jonathan: sharply dressed, thoughtful, intelligent. Jonathan, who serves as the Director of Public Policy for Liberty Counsel, had been invited to Nebraska to provide expert testimony on LB173, a legislative bill which would create additional protected classes for sexual orientation and gender identity in Nebraska’s antidiscrimination laws.
That day, Jonathan offered incisive testimony in opposition to LB173. Appealing to his African-American heritage, Jonathan countered the claim that the plight of those who identify with a same-sex attraction or as the opposite gender is similar to the plight of the African-American community and their experience of slavery and the Jim Crow South. Jonathan dismantled this false analogy as “intellectually dishonest” and an affront to the experience of the African-American people.
“Rescuing the Children: The Story of the Kindertransport,” by Deborah Hodge.
Tundra Books, Plattsburgh, N.Y., 2012, 60 pages, Grades 4-6.
Last week in Virginia, a violent fight broke out involving white supremacists. A number of groups including the KKK and the Aryan Nation support white supremacy. The beliefs behind white supremacy are grounded in thoughts of racial superiority and the need to enforce racial separation. Historically, this has always led to attacks on groups deemed to be a threat to the white supremacists.
By Fr. Christopher Kubat
Those who receive and read our quarterly newsletter from St. Gianna’s Women’s Homes might remember learning something you already know: Most children, if not all, love to have books read to them. This is a great way for parents, older siblings, aunts, uncles, cousins and others to bond with little children while the children learn and acquire reading and comprehension skills.
St. Gianna’s, if you do not know, is a 24 apartment home for women who are escaping abortion and domestic violence, run by the Marian Sisters of the Diocese of Lincoln. They themselves have had little children knock on their doors, wanting them to play and read books to them.
By Tom Venzor
I am thrilled to announce this year’s Bishops’ Pro-Life Banquet and Conference is now open for registration. The banquet and conference will take place in Lincoln at the Cornhusker Marriott Hotel Sept. 29 and 30. Before discussing our exciting agenda, know that you can register for the banquet and/or conference through our website (www.necatholic.org), e-mail (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.), or phone (402.477.7517).
Pro-Life Banquet & Keynote Speaker. Our kick-off event is the banquet on Friday evening (Sept. 29)—social hour (5 p.m.) and dinner (6 p.m.). The banquet always proves to be joy-filled evening as pro-lifers gather in solidarity to celebrate the tremendous gift of life. As is custom, all three Nebraska Bishops—Archbishop George J. Lucas, Bishop James D. Conley, and Bishop Joseph G. Hanefeldt—will be in attendance.
“Dogs on Duty” by Dorothy Patent.
Walker and Company, New York, 2012, 48 pages, Grades 3-5.
Dog books have a fascination for readers of all ages. Many people can still remember being introduced to dog stories through classic works of fiction such as “Where the Red Fern Grows” or “Old Yeller.”
In recent years, numerous books have been published on dog breeds and work done by dogs. Dorothy Patent is a premier writer of nonfiction in many different fields. This starred review by Booklist, the outstanding children’s literature magazine is one of her recent works. “Dogs on Duty” tells the story of the history of dogs in military service and how dogs are being used today to assist soldiers in the battlefield and police officers in the line of duty.
By Father Christopher Kubat
Recently, Clarice Sabata from Ss. Mary and Joseph Parish in Valparaiso stopped by our main office (located in the beautiful St. Joseph Campus on 23rd and O streets). This is also the site of Gianna’s Java & Gelato, home of the most delicious coffee and gelato (Italian ice cream) in the city of Lincoln.
As you know, the proceeds from Gianna’s go to assist the many women who have escaped domestic violence and abortion, as well as their children, at St. Gianna Women’s Homes. My favorite flavor is chocolate hazelnut, but since some days I am not sure, I have to experiment. In the quest of ensuring it is fit for our customers, I taste test sometimes twice a day… but I can quit anytime, I can walk away anytime....
By Bob Sullivan
As the Mother of God, Mary plays a very important and unique role in salvation history, the mystery of our redemption. The role was not an easy one. Mary endured a vast amount of anguish from the moment she accepted God’s invitation to serve as the Mother of Jesus. The Seven Sorrows of Mary remind us of some of the suffering she endured with heroic obedience, dignity and grace.
Because of this, Christians have honored Mary for 20 centuries, and the honor (hyperdulia) given to Mary is higher than the honor for any other created being. Since the earliest centuries of Christianity Mary has been called The New Eve, The Ark of the New Covenant, Theotokos, the “Woman” in Revelation 12. The Church has always regarded Mary to possess purity, sinlessness, an immaculate nature and other qualities that are consistent with her role as the Mother of God, and which are not present in the lives of the rest of huanity. Mary has always been considered the greatest of the saints because other than her Son, Mary is the greatest example of holiness the world has ever known. All other saints in the great cloud of witnesses, even the martyrs, are given a slightly lower level of honor (dulia).
There are Christians who claim we worship Mary. They say it is idolatry to have statues and images of Mary and other saints in our churches, shrines and homes. The fact that the official teachings of the Church say just the opposite is irrelevant to such critics. Some even go so far as to claim that a crucifix is a graven image, prohibited by Scripture.
By Tom Venzor
On the heels of this summer’s Fortnight for Freedom, an Illinois federal court handed down a major victory for religious freedom in America. This is a story worth knowing about. It is a testament to the power of prayer, and a declaration of the rights of health care professionals against immoral mandates by the state. And it gives hope to ongoing efforts to protect the conscience rights of psychologists, therapists, and counselors in Nebraska.
“Frederick Douglass: The Lion Who Wrote History,”
by Walter Dean Myers, illustrated by Floyd Cooper.
Harper Collins Publishing, 2017, 32 pages, Grades 2-4.
American history is filled with people of great courage and daring. Some people fled to this country to escape religious intolerance. Many wanted a better life than their home countries would allow.
Others were forced to these shores through the evils of the slave trade. This awful practice continued in the United States until the end of the Civil War. For African Americans caught in this evil system, the choices were daunting. No one wants to be oppressed and American slaves tried their utmost to cope with and change their desperate situation.
By Father Christopher Kubat
Recently, a homeless man who is living in his car (a car that someone donated to us and we gave to him) showed me his lower lip. He had a three- to four-centimeter squamous cell carcinoma (cancer). He recently had it surgically removed.
I would like to thank his surgeon and St. Elizabeth Hospital for their help, as well as a donor who helped us place him in a long-term motel for two weeks so that he might heal properly. Can you imagine sitting in a hot car, post-operatively? After this, he will be able to return to his new job and work toward renting a small, one-bedroom apartment before the snow flies.
By Tom Venzor
Baby Charlie Gard has been in the international media spotlight for several weeks. His medical situation is tragic. The tragedy is compounded by ongoing legal battles over Baby Charlie’s medical care. While Baby Charlie’s situation is unique, it is representative of other healthcare decisionmaking experiences, including those occurring in the context of physician-assisted suicide.
Underlying these medical-legal realities is the question: what constitutes ethical healthcare decisionmaking? This question invites and demands knowing and acting on fundamental principles accessible to us both as a matter of human reason and Christian faith.
“Henry and Mudge and the Great Grandpas”
by Cynthia Rylant, illustrated by Sucie Stevenson.
Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers, New York, 40 pages, Grades 2-3.
By Father Christopher Kubat
On Friday, July 7, Congressman Jeff Fortenberry visited our main office (located in our beautiful St. Joseph campus in Lincoln) to share his vision of America and hear from our staff regarding issues important to us. We were just one of his planned stops that day.
While waiting for his arrival, a man who appeared to be in his mid-30s, after entering our main entrance, made a beeline to our receptionist next to whom I was standing. He had the appearance of someone who needed assistance. If I was a betting man, I would have guessed he would have asked for help of some kind. Instead, he asked the receptionist where he could go, or who he needed to see, in order to make a donation. She then pointed to me. Based on how he was dressed, I must admit, I was quite surprised.
I said I would be happy to help him. While opening his wallet, he proceeded to explain that he was most grateful to CSS because of the help he received as he transitioned out of homelessness and off the streets.
By Tom Venzor
With the feast day of Saints Thomas More and John Fischer and the Fortnight for Freedom come and gone, a renewed sense of religious freedom has settled into the hearts of Catholics across the country. These occasions provide an opportunity to reflect on the fundamental basis for religious liberty. They also provide an opportunity to further pray and work for a culture that values religious liberty as the Supreme Court of the United States (“SCOTUS”) recently did.
“The Two Towers: Part Two of the Lord of the Rings,” by J.R.R. Tolkien
Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, New York, 1954, 322 pages, Grades 8 and higher.
By Fr. Christopher Kubat
On Friday, June 23, Dr. Gianna Emanuela Molla, the daughter of St. Gianna, visited Lincoln. She was in the United States visiting Atlanta and the Grand Canyon.
