1 Our Lady of Mercy Parish The English-speaking Beseler Felicity Renshaw Janet Walls FHCS Students FHC Students Fellowship Michele Martorell 91 759 5402 Meredith Slevin 91 775 6962

1

| V o l u m e 1 5 , I s s u e 2

Our Lady of Mercy Parish

A p r i l – J u n e 2 0 1 3 | V o l u m e 1 5 , I s s u e 2

"And now let us begin this journey, together as bishop and

people. This journey of the Church of Rome, which is to preside over all the Churches in charity. It is a journey of fraternity, of love, of trust between us. Let us always pray for one another. Let us pray for the world, so that a great brotherhood may be

created. " - His Holiness, Pope Francis

In Loving Memory of Alexandra Lovrics Vitale December 25, 1992 – February 23, 2013

But the souls of the just are in the hand of God, and no torment shall touch them.

T h e E n g l i s h -s p e a k i n g C a t h ol i c C h u r ch o f th e M a d r i d P r o vi n c e

Parish Priest Fr. Ron Ochylski office • 91-350-3449 home • 91-718-5571

Calle Drácena, 23 28016 Madrid • Spain www.ourladyofmercy.info [email protected] Directions: Bus *52*, 150, 14, 16 or 29. Metro line #9 stop at Pío XII exit: centro comercial

Page 3 Jest for Kids Page 7 A Bishop Embraced by Rome Page 8 The Green Thing Page 9 The Seven Sacraments Page 10 Marching for Life Page 11 Have lunch with God Page 13 Patience with God Page 14 Meet the Confirmation Candidates & RCIA Members

And lots more…

Sunday & Holy Day Liturgy: 11:00 am Office hours Tuesdays 16:00 to 20:00 Wednesdays 10:00 to 13:30 Thursdays by appointment Confessions: Sundays 13:00 after Mass, weekdays, & during office hours CCD Classes: Sundays 12.10 - 13:00 Choir practice: Sundays 10:15 inside the parish building Bible Study: After Mass Support Group: After Mass Rosary: Sundays 10.30 in the small chapel Charismatic Prayer Group: Saturdays 18:00-20:00 Weekday Mass: Wednesdays 12:30 (during school year)

T h e E n gl i s h -s p eakin g Cath o l ic Ch urc h o f th e Mad r i d Pr o v in c e

Parish Priest Fr. Ron Ochylski office • 91-350-3449 home • 91-718-5571

Calle Drácena, 23 28016 Madrid • Spain www.ourladyofmercy.info [email protected] Directions: Bus *52*, 150, 14, 16 or 29. Metro line #9 stop at Pío XII exit: Centro Comercial

2


3


Jest for Kids! RIDDLES

What can rabbits have that no other animal can have?

Baby rabbits.

What would a barefoot man get if he steps on an electric wire?

A pair of shocks.

What game did the cat want to play with the mouse?

Catch.

Where do seahorses sleep at night? In barn-icles.

What do you get when you cross a dog with a daisy?

A collie-flower. ▪

4


M i n i s t r i e s C a l e n d a r

Apr i l 2013

7

2nd Sunday of Easter

14 3rd Sunday of

Easter

21 4th Sunday of

Easter

28 5th Sunday of

Easter

May 5 6th Sunday of

Easter

Extraordinary Ministers of

Holy Communion Mike Schneider

91 639 1564

Blanca Castro Michele Martorell

Sister Rosa Sister Mary

Felicity Renshaw Judy Mac Inness David Franklin Calistus Ezike

Michele Martorell Louise Aulbach

Julie Hoare Sister Florence

Iris García Calistus Ezike Jenny Belino Matt Peisen

Sister Rosa Michael Schneider

Sister Virginia María José García

Mercedes Fernandez Edna Mamayson Marcel Adolphus Nancy Deutman

Michael Schneider Louise Aulbach

Julie Hoare Nancy Deutman

Sister Rosa Matt Peisen Judy Belino

Marcel Adolphus

Nancy Deutman Marcel Adolphus

Mercedes Fernandez Sister Virginia David Franklin Calistus Ezike Blanca Castro

Michele Martorell

Altar Servers Louise Aulbach

91 402 9465

Lizzie Michaela

Lucy Collin Sofia Victor

Ainhoa Amaya

Matthew Lavinia Derrick

Oby Constanza

Alba Luis

Clinton

Isabel Paloma Philip Jack

Kayleigh Chuma

Lizzie Michaela

Lucy Collin Sofia

Readers Louise Aulbach

91 402 9465

Samuel Abel Janet Walls

Isabel Aston Elizabeth Aston

Irene Chidinma Brian Douglas

Evarest Iheka Felicity Renshaw

Children’s Mass Level 1 & 2

Fellowship Michele

Martorell 91 759 5402

Meredith Slevin 91 775 6962

Pastries Bermudez Bennett

Family

Coffee/Drinks Pauline Bath

YAG

Pastries Asón Family

Coffee/Drinks

Melissa de Miguel & YAG

Pastries Gonzalo Centeno

Family Coffee/Drinks

Maribel Cuenca & Rob Shaunghnessy Catherine Bycroft

Pastries Lopez Zabella

Family

Coffee/Drinks Prado Diez Family &

YAG

Pastries volunteer needed

Coffee/Drinks volunteer needed

Ushers Brian Douglas 669 440 156

Brian Douglas Blanca Castro

Justice Imaraiyi Nathaniel Ibuchi

Brian Douglas Peter Anene

Tina Chike Ezike

Nathaniel Ibuchi Blanca Castro

Greeters Deanna Mason

91 351 2334 Michelle Martorell Chike Ezike Melissa de Miguel

Barbara de la Huerta

Mercedes Montero

º

Schedule

Every Saturday Charismatic Prayer Group 6 – 8 pm in parish rooms.

Every Sunday

Spanish Language Classes 1 – 2:30 pm in parish rooms.

Support group with CJ (TBA

RCIA with Mike Schneider 12:15–13:00 at Kocina Dos.

Bible study with Fr. Jim/ Richard 12:15-13:15

April 4 Young Adult Group - YouCat April 7 CCD resumes Name tag Sunday (TBC) Fr. Ron visits Level 1 class at 12:30 Holocaust Memorial Day April 13 Confirmation candidates’ day of Recollection 11 am to 6 pm April 14 Blessing of Confirmation Candidates Fr. Ron visits level 2 at 12:30 April 18 Young Adult Group - Topic TBD April 20 Confirmation practice in church at 17:00

April 21 10:45 Confirmation celebration CCD as normal April 28 Madrid Rock & Roll Marathon and ½ Marathon some roads may be closed May 5 No CCD Children’s Mass Levels 1 & 2 Name tag Sunday CCD pre-registration Mother’s Day in Spain

5

| V o l u m e 1 5 , I s s u e 2


May 2013

5

6th Sunday of Easter

12 7th Sunday of

Easter

19 Pentecost Sunday

26 Trinity Sunday

June 2 Corpus Christi



91 639 1564

Nancy Deutman Marcel Adolphus

Mercedes Fernandez Sister Virginia David Franklin Calistus Ezike Blanca Castro

Michele Martorell

Edna Mamayson Louise Aulbach Sister Florence

Judy Mac Inness Marcel Adolphus

Jenny Belino Nancy Deutman Felicity Renshaw

Sister Virgina Sister Mary Matt Peisen

Calistus Ezike Blanca Castro

Nancy Deutman Jenny Belino

Adna Mamayson

David Franklin Calistus Ezike

David Franklin Mike Schneider

Marcel Adolphus Julie Hoare

Blanca Castro Sister Rosa

Matt Peisen Nancy Deutman Judy Mac Innes

Judy Belino Sister Florence Louise Aulbach

Michele Martorell Mike Schneider


91 402 9465

Lizzie Michaela

Lucy Collin Sofia

Ainhoa Amaya

Matthew Lavinia Victor

Oby Constanza

Alba Luis

Clinton Derrick

Isabel Paloma Philip Jack

Kayleigh Chuma

Lizzie Michaela

Lucy Collin

Lavinia


91 402 9465

Children’s Mass Level 1 & 2

Maria Jose Garcia Sarah Beseler

Felicity Renshaw Janet Walls

FHCS Students FHC Students

Fellowship Michele



Pastries

volunteer needed

Coffee/Drinks

volunteer needed

Pastries Del Rio Family

Coffee/Drinks Miller Family &

YAG

Pastries Summers Family

Coffee/Drinks

Melissa de Miguel & YAG

Pastries Elkington Family

Coffee/Drinks Rainier Tanig & Alex Henwood

Pastries YAG

Coffee/Drinks Sarah Beseler &

YAG



Brian Douglas Justice Imaraiyi

Tina Peter Anene

Nathaniel Ibuchi Chike Ezike



91 351 2334 Mercedes Montero Michelle Martorell


ChikeEzike Melissa de Miguel

Schedule


Every Sunday





May 5 No CCD Children’s Mass Levels 1 & 2 Name tag Sunday CCD pre-registration Mother’s Day in Spain May 9 Young Adult Group - YouCat May 11 First Confessions of all FHC children (both classes) May 12 Fr. Ron does a slow motion mass for FHC children (part one) Mother’s Day in many parts of the world

May 18 7 pm – Good Neighbor Fund Benefit Concert

May 19 Blessing of First Communion children and Charismatic Prayer Group leaders and slow motion Mass part 2. May 23 Young Adult Group - Topic TBD May 25 First Communion Rehearsal at 5:00 pm (group 1) May 26 10:45 am - First Communion June 1 First Communion rehearsal at 5:00 pm (group 2) June 2 First Communion

6



June2013

2

Corpus Christi

9 10th Sunday of Ordinary Time






91 639 1564

Matt Peisen Nancy Deutman Judy Mac Innes

Judy Belino Sister Florence Louise Aulbach

Michele Martorell Mike Schneider

Blanca Castro Michele Martorell

Sister Rosa Sister Mary

Felicity Renshaw Judy Mac Inness David Franklin Calistus Ezike

Michele Martorell Louise Aulbach

Julie Hoare Sister Florence

Iris García Calistus Ezike Jenny Belino Matt Peisen

Sister Rosa Michael Schneider

Sister Virginia María José García

Mercedes Fernandez Edna Mamayson Marcel Adolphus Nancy Deutman

Michael Schneider Louise Aulbach

Julie Hoare Nancy Deutman

Sister Rosa Matt Peisen Judy Belino

Marcel Adolphus


91 402 9465

Lizzie Michaela

Lucy Collin

Lavinia

Ainhoa Amaya

Alba Luis

Clinton Derrick

Oby Constanza

Sofia Michaela

Isabel Matthew

Philip Paloma Victor

Lavinia

Jack Kayleigh Derrick Chuma Lizzie


91 402 9465 FHC Ceremony

Isabel Aston Elizabeth Aston

Evarest Iheka Sarah Beseler

Maria Jose Garcia Janet Walls

Samuel Abel Brian Douglas

Fellowship Michele



Pastries

YAG

Coffee/Drinks

Sarah Beseler & YAG

Pastries

FHC Families

Coffee/Drinks

FHC Families

Pastries

YAG

Coffee/Drinks

Rainier Tanig & Alex Henwood

Pastries YAG

Coffee/Drinks

YAG

Pastries

volunteer needed

Coffee/Drinks

volunteer needed



Tina Justice Imaraiyi

Chike Ezike Peter Anene


Tina Peter Anene


91 351 2334 Melissa de Miguel Mercedes Montero


Alberto Santandreu

Chike Ezike

º

Schedule


Every Sunday





June 1 First Communion rehearsal at 5:00 pm (group 2) June 2 First Communion June 6 Young Adult Group - YouCat June 9 First Communion party – hosted by the FHC Parents Food collection June 16 CCD Graduation Mass CCD teachers Luncheon

June 20 Young Adult Group - Topic TBD July & August Happy Summer! September CCD Resumes Pot Luck Blessing of CCD Teachers

7

A p r i l t o J u n e 2 0 1 3 | V o l u m e 1 5 , I s s u e 2

Welcome to OLM!

Newly Registered Parishioners

* Mary Akweh Adomah

* Alejandro Daniel Buxonat Villafranca * Fidelis Ekar

* Kevin Chijioke Odobe

* Ruth McNamara

* Lindsay Ann Paoloni * Daniela Bosler

* Nancy Odiegwu

* Dylan Albuquerque

* Lucille Diana Sharon Galleli

* Gerardo Polanco Jiménez * Robert Shaughnessy

* Erola A. Toren

* Paul McKay Are you missing from this list? Please fill out a new parishioner registration form and give it to Fr. Ron ASAP.

A Bishop Embraced by Rome

By Matt Malone, S.J.

When the bells finally peeled and the white smoke wafted from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel, a tidal wave of a roar rushed across St. Peter’s Square, traveled down the main thoroughfare at the foot of the basilica, finally broke at the River Tiber, rushed its opposite shore and flowed into the city beyond. In the following 45 minutes, what seemed like half of Rome made a dash to St. Peter’s. They did something Romans are loath to do: they abandoned their dinners. Making a beeline for the piazza, most of them were running, oblivious to the danger posed by the soaking wet cobblestones. Some even abandoned their cars to the massive traffic jams, while others sat and blared their horns, some celebrating, some venting their frustration. While Catholics throughout the world were tuning in to learn the identity of the new pope, Romans were rushing to meet their new bishop. The pope is the pope, of course, precisely because he is bishop of Rome. In recent decades, however, as modern popes

have traveled more widely and taken on an ever more prominent role in global affairs, the pope’s role as shepherd of the Roman flock has been downplayed, even delegated. The blessing given urbi et orbi (to the city and the world) during the traditional appearance of the newly elected pope on the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica has been more orbi than urbi in recent times. It was significant, then, that Pope Francis chose to address the people of Rome directly in the opening moments of his pontificate. ―And now let us begin this journey, the bishop and people,‖ the pope said in his extemporaneous remarks. ―My hope is that this journey of the church that we begin today, together with the help of my cardinal vicar, will be fruitful for the evangelization of this beautiful city.‖ Romans took note of the new pope’s words. Though drenched and freezing cold, all were smiling, some were crying. Cheers of ―Francesco! Francesco! Francesco!‖ resounded throughout the square as the new pope greeted the exuberant crowd in Italian. ―The choice of the name was beautiful for us. St. Francis is the patron saint of Italy,‖ said Celsa Negrini of Rome, who was in the crowd. ―He seems very humble; his demeanor seems very positive. He will be a pope who evangelizes people’s consciences,‖ she added. Unbeknownst to most of the crowd, the new pope also gently waded into a theological controversy in his opening remarks. A perennial question in theology is the relationship between the universal church (the church spread throughout the world, whose central authority is in Rome) and the particular church (the church of each local place or diocese). Theologians debate which has priority. It is not merely an academic question. How one answers it, theologians say, determines how one views questions of power and governance, the proper relationship between Rome and each diocese. In his opening remarks, using an image of a united journey by the bishop and the people of Rome, Pope Francis added, ―this journey of the church of Rome, which presides in charity over all the churches, a journey of brotherhood in love, of mutual trust.‖ In speaking directly to the people of Rome, the new pope was stressing the particular; by mentioning Rome’s presidential function, the pope also appealed to the universal. All of that, however, was lost on most of the crowd. For one night, at least, the universal and the particular were visibly one, an ecclesial community united in faith hope and love. That feeling of community lingered after the pope said his words of greeting, ending with ―have a good night and have a good rest‖ in Italian. Some hugged each other; many took pictures; many were talking excitedly about what they had just seen. Then the square slowly emptied and the Romans returned to their homes. ▪

8


The Green Thing

In the line at the store, the cashier told the older woman that plastic bags weren't good for the environment. The woman apologized to her and explained, "We didn't have the green thing back in my day." That's right, they didn't have the green thing in her day. Back then, they returned their milk bottles, Coke bottles, and beer bottles to the store. The store sent them back to the plant to be washed and sterilized and refilled, using the same bottles over and over. So they really were recycled. But they didn't have the green thing back in her day. In her day, they walked up stairs, because they didn't have an escalator in every store and office building. They walked to the grocery store and didn't climb into a 300-horsepower machine every time they had to go two blocks. But she's right: they didn't have the green thing in her day. Back then, they washed the baby's diapers because they didn't have the throw-away kind. They dried clothes on a line, not in an energy-gobbling machine burning up 220 volts - wind and solar power really did dry the clothes. Kids got hand-me-down clothes from their brothers or sisters, not always brand-new clothing. But that old lady is right: they didn't have the green thing back in her day. Back then, they had one TV or radio in the house - not a TV in every room. And the TV had a small screen the size of a pizza dish, not a screen the size of an entire wall. When they packaged a fragile item to send in the mail, they used wadded-up newspaper to cushion it, not Styrofoam or plastic bubble wrap. Back then, they didn't fire up an engine and burn gasoline just to cut the lawn. They used a push mower that ran on human power. They exercised by working so they didn't need to go to a health club to run on treadmills that operate on electricity. But

she's right: they didn't have the green thing back then. They drank from a fountain when they were thirsty instead of using a cup or a plastic bottle every time they had a drink of water. They refilled pens with ink instead of buying a new pen, and they replaced the razor blades in a razor instead of throwing away the whole razor just because the blade got dull. But they didn't have the green thing back then. Back then, people took the bus and kids rode their bikes to school and to sporting events instead of turning their moms into a 24-hour taxi service. They had one electrical outlet in a room, not an entire bank of sockets to power a dozen appliances. And they didn't need a computerized gadget to receive a signal beamed from satellites 2,000 miles out in space just to find the nearest fast food restaurant. But that old lady was right: they didn't have the green thing back in her day. ▪

From our Protestant friends:

Two Pastors wives were visiting and sewing their husbands pants.

One wife said: My husband is just beside himself, he does not know

what to do anymore and he is so tired and depressed he said he is ready to just give up and resign.

The other wife said: I am sorry to hear that because my husband has never been happier. Our membership is growing and we are out of our financial burden, we have such a large and loving congregation. Life could not be any better than it is right now.

One woman was mending the seat of her husband's pants, the other was mending the knees. ▪

A women who is 3 months pregnant falls into a deep coma. 6 month later, she awakes and asks the doctor about her baby. Doctor: you had twins, a boy and a girl, they are both fine. Luckily, your brother named them for you. Woman: oh no, not my brother! He's an idiot! What did he name the girl? Doctor: Denise. Woman: well it isn't so bad, and what did he call the boy? Doctor: Denephew. ▪

9


The Seven Sacraments – A Review "The seven sacraments are efficacious signs of grace, instituted by Christ and entrusted to the Church, by which divine life is dispensed to us. The visible rites by which the sacraments are celebrated signify and make present the graces proper to each sacrament. They bear fruit in those who receive them with the required dispositions.

Baptism By which we are born into the new life in Christ The fruits of this sacrament are:

Remission of original sin. Birth into the new life by which man becomes

an adoptive son of the Father, a member of Christ, and a temple of the Holy Spirit.

Incorporation into the Church, the body of Christ, and participation in the priesthood of Christ.

The imprinting, on the soul, of an indelible spiritual sign, the character, which consecrates the baptized person for Christian worship. Because of this character, Baptism cannot be repeated.

Confirmation By which we are more perfectly bound to the Church and enriched with a special strength of the Holy Spirit The fruits of this sacrament are:

An increase and deepening of baptismal grace.

A deepening of one's roots in the divine filiation, which makes one cry, "Abba, Father!"

A firming of one's unity with Christ. An increase of the gifts of the Holy Spirit. A strengthening of one's bond with the

Church and closer association with her mission.

Special strength of the Holy Spirit to spread and defend the faith by word and action as a true witnesses of Christ, to confess the name of Christ boldly, and to never be ashamed of the cross.

The imprinting, as in Baptism, of a spiritual mark or indelible character on the Christian's soul. Because of this character, one can receive this sacrament only once in one's life.

The Holy Eucharist By which Christ associates his Church and all her members with the sacrifice of the cross The fruits of this sacrament are:

An increase in the communicant's union with Christ.

Forgiveness of venial sins. Preservation from grave sins. A strengthening of the bonds of charity

between the communicant and Christ. A strengthening of the unity of the Church as

the Mystical Body of Christ. Reconciliation or Penance By which sins after Baptism are forgiven The fruits of this sacrament are:

Reconciliation with God: the penitent recovers sanctifying grace.

Reconciliation with the Church. Remission of the eternal punishment

incurred by mortal sins. Remission, at least in part, of temporal

punishments resulting from sin. Peace and serenity of conscience, and

spiritual consolation. An increase of spiritual strength for the

Christian battle. Anointing of the Sick By which a special grace is conferred during grave illness or old age The fruits of this sacrament are:

Unity with the passion of Christ, for the sick person's own good and that of the whole Church.

Strength, peace, and courage to endure as a Christian the sufferings of illness or old age.

Forgiveness of sins, if the sick person was not able to obtain it through the sacrament of Penance.

Restoration of health, if it is conducive to the salvation of the soul.

Preparation for entering eternal life. Holy Orders By which the task of serving in the name and in the person of Christ is conferred The fruits of this sacrament are:

The mission and faculty ("the sacred power") to act in persona Christi.

Configuration to Christ as Priest, Teacher, and Pastor.

The imprinting, as in Baptism, of an indelible character that cannot be repeated or conferred temporarily.

Matrimony By which a man and a woman form with each other an intimate communion of life and love The fruits of this sacrament for the spouses are:

The grace to love each other with the love with which Christ has loved his Church.

A perfecting of their human love. A strengthening of their indissoluble unity. Sanctification on their way to heaven. The grace to "help one another to attain

holiness in their married life and in welcoming and educating their children."

An integration into God's covenant with man: Authentic married love is caught up into divine love. ▪

10


Marching for Life: A Call for Conversion

A Student's View By Michael Masteller

SAN FRANCISCO, January 29, 2013 (Zenit) - My own walk for life started before I had even left the campus of Thomas Aquinas College. For me, it was the sermon that one of our college chaplains gave Friday morning before we left that

began this journey. It was the feast of the Conversion of St. Paul that we were celebrating. In his sermon, Fr. Illo compared our drive to San Francisco with St. Paul’s trip to Damascus. He stressed that we should concentrate on our journey as a pilgrimage, and that just as St. Paul was converted, we too should be converted and strive to make this a prayerful event.

Although there was no doubt about our mission—we were going to march for life and stand up for the rights of the unborn—I was glad Fr. Illo clarified what this meant. It is easy to participate in an external way; it’s the internal participation that is a bit more difficult. We were not going merely to enjoy the city, nor to convert abortionists; we were embarking on a journey of prayer and penance to bear witness to the Truth and hopefully to be changed by this experience.

With this in mind, we set off for San Francisco after classes in two buses, with many more students taking their own cars. Our drive went very smoothly. We amused ourselves with sleeping and watching Star Wars movies; to keep a balance in the force, we also prayed a rosary and Divine Mercy Chaplet to keep ourselves focused on our mission.

We arrived in the city around midnight and all piled into the basement gymnasia of Saints Peter and Paul church, which was generously opened for us to use as a temporary dormitory for our weekend stay. One could not ask for a better location: not only were we within walking distance of downtown and other popular parts of the city, we also had access to Adoration all night. After we got situated in the basement, many students went upstairs to the church to pray and prepare ourselves for the Walk for Life the next day. It was very peaceful praying in the dead of night, and it was comforting to know that many people in various churches throughout the city were also praying through the night for the same cause.

The next morning we headed to St. Mary’s Cathedral for the pro-life Mass. As we approached the cathedral, we could see that the whole block was surrounded with buses dropping off people for Mass. I was lucky to get a seat, for the Cathedral was

literally packed to the walls, and many people had to stand in the back. As Mass started, the procession of priests and bishops stretched further than I could see. The sermon was given by Archbishop Salvatore Cordileone of San Francisco, who focused on the same theme that our chaplain had set out for us. The heart of the archbishop’s sermon was that the best way to convert and change people is through our own holiness, that it is only through changing our own hearts that we will be able to change the hearts of others. I felt this was not a coincidence, and I began to see this idea of self-conversion as a theme for this Walk.

After Mass, we headed to the City Hall at Justin Herman Plaza where the march would begin. When we arrived there were already many people assembled; during the rally I heard mentioned that we were about 50,000 strong. All of us were encouraged by our numbers, but the best encouragement of all was when Pope Benedict XVI’s representative, Apostolic Nuncio Archbishop Vigano, read a blessing that the Pope had given specifically for our march. As we got under way, Thomas Aquinas College students were honored by leading the Walk for Life with the responsibility of keeping a good pace and formation for the rest of the walk. While in past years we had to worry about pushing through protestors, this year we had a fleet of police cars and motorcycles to pave the way for us down Market Street and through downtown.

Once the walk got started, we began to sing religious hymns and patriotic songs, and with each one I felt that we were becoming more unified. After about ten minutes we began to hear loud shouts, and in the distance we could see people gathering to protest our march. I braced myself, for having been in the Walk before, I knew what to expect from these protestors. As we drew closer, I could not help but feel a certain heaviness come over me. Having so much anger and hate being directed at you is not an easy thing, especially when it is entirely unjust. But we raised our voices in song, and with smiles, pushed through. There was a stark contrast between the wild ferocity and anger of the protesters and our calm peacefulness and prayer.

There was one protestor’s banner that stuck out from all the rest. On it was written: ―This walk hates women!‖ Naturally, my first response was to think: ―That’s a lie! Clearly we treat women better than you do.‖ Just then, though, the words of Fr. Illo and Archbishop Cordileone appeared in my mind. I knew that even though we might not commit abortions, we are not totally innocent of dishonoring women—we too are guilty and stand in need of conversion. Even if we might not be guilty of committing this sin of abortion, how many of us have neglected to defend women from being dishonored? For myself, I knew that I could be doing a better job at this, for it is

11


usually through a lack of loving on my part that others are not brought to see the Truth.

I could not shake off this thought the rest of the day. I knew that what had been presented to me was more than a chance to participate in an annual Walk for Life—I was shown another way to be pro-life: to be pro-life with one’s whole life. To walk once a year is not enough to relieve us of our obligation to fight abortion. Our lives must be a witness to the truth, the goodness, and the beauty that can be found in Christ’s love. Yet for us to radiate all this, a greater conversion through prayer and penance is needed.

Later that night, I went with a group of friends to an Italian restaurant for dinner. As we were about to leave, a man there asked us what group we were and why we were here. We told him that we were students of Thomas Aquinas College and that we had come to San Francisco for the Walk for Life. He responded by saying he admired our courage for coming to such a rough city in order to stand up for the truth, and we could see that our actions had a deep impact on him. He told us that it is hard for him and others to stand up in such an aggressively backward city, and that he was strengthened by our example. He told us that he was filled with hope to see that there were still people who were willing to step up and defend life.

Looking back on the Walk, I cannot know what impact it made on the nation’s attitudes about abortion, nor what kind of success it will generate for the unborn. But I know that our witness gave hope to others, and that change will come only when we allow the Truth to transform us. With God’s grace we will prevail! ▪

Have lunch with God.......bring chips.

Take 60 seconds to read this wonderful story. It will give you time to settle your brain, gather your thoughts, calm down and start your week off on a positive note. A little boy wanted to meet God. He knew it was a long

trip to where God lived, so he packed his suitcase with a bag of potato chips and a six-pack of root beer and started his journey. When he had gone about three blocks, he met an old man. He was sitting in the park, just staring at some pigeons. The boy sat down next to him and opened his suitcase. He was about to take a drink from his root beer when he noticed that the old man looked hungry, so he offered him some chips. He gratefully accepted it and smiled at him.

His smile was so pretty that the boy wanted to see it again, so he offered him a root beer. Again, he smiled at him. The boy was delighted! They sat there all afternoon eating and smiling, but they never said a word. As twilight approached, the boy realized how tired he was and he got up to leave; but before he had gone more than a few steps, he turned around, ran back to the old man, and gave him a hug. He gave him his biggest smile ever... When the boy opened the door to his own house a short time later, his mother was surprised by the look of joy on his face. She asked him, "What did you do today that made you so happy?" He replied, "I had lunch with God." But before his mother could respond, he added, "You know what? He's got the most beautiful smile I've ever seen!" Meanwhile, the old man, also radiant with joy, returned to his home. His son was stunned by the look of peace on his face and he asked, "dad, what did you do today that made you so happy?" He replied "I ate potato chips in the park with God." However, before his son responded, he added, "You know, he's much younger than I expected." Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring, all of which have the potential to turn a life around. People come into our lives for a reason, a season, or a lifetime! Embrace all equally! Have lunch with God.......bring chips. ▪

What's Your Favorite Food?

My sister was telling me that a few weeks ago she was at Mass with her 4 year old, Nora. When they began to sing the Holy, Holy, Holy Nora said ―This is my favorite song!‖ My sister said, ―Why?‖ Nora replied, ―It about my favorite food! The one that I eat aaaaall up whenever you make it!‖ My sister was confused and asked her to clarify. ―Lasagna in the Highest!!‖ ▪

12


Fr. Ron’s favorite email:

Dear Father Ron, My son said something to me that I thought was so cute and had to share.

Isaiah said "Mommy the most important people in this world are: God, Jesus, the Holy Spirit, and Father Ron." Have a great Sunday. Bianca Smith ▪

Our New Pope

By Michael Schneider – OLM Parishioner

As concerned Catholics, we all had our favorite candidates, and why not? We try to be well informed, we want the best for the future of Our Church. Most Italians who favored a local boy accepted this emigrant´s offspring as a consolation prize. But the majority of us, and all the experts, in the media, the Vaticanoligists, were mistaken. The darkest of horses was chosen. The Holy Spirit continues to guide Our Church. A person so humble, so simple, so Christike. In his bishopric of Buenos Aires he has no official car or chauffeur, he takes public transport, the bus or the subway, to serve the poorest of his flock in soup kitchens in the barrios and favelas. He rejected the archbishop´s castle and lives in a simple abode, he prepares his own meals. When chosen a cardinal, he told his fellow bishops who wanted to accompany to Rome for the celebration ceremony "Thanks", but "No thanks", and instead, donate the money to the poor. He has a great sense of humor. At night after being elected he told all his brother cardinals, God bless us, may we all sleep well, and may God forgive this foolish mistake you all made. Let us all, in spite of our limitations, try to imitate Francis in his service to Our Church and to each other. ▪

The New Kid In The Pew

By: Richelle Zuniga - parishioner

The majority of us have had the experience of being ―the new kid on the block‖ or, in most of our cases, ―the new kid in the country‖. One of the fantastic things about OLM is the sense of community it shows. However,

becoming part of that community can be an intimidating task for some of us. We can all probably remember the first time we attended mass at OLM. Whether it was to find a parish to make our sacraments at, a place where our children could make theirs, or maybe it seemed like a good place to make new friends. Whatever the reason was, we all eventually found our way to the open doors of OLM, but what has kept us coming back? Besides the enlightening homilies and the soulful choir, why do we return Sunday after Sunday? Part of the reason we return is to be social and to see our friends. How did we make these friends to begin with? Simple, either we or they said ―hello‖. That is all it takes, a simple ―hello‖ starts everything. I remember my first mass at OLM with my husband, and I remember the first people who said ―hello‖ to us. Week after week, we would look forward to chatting with them after mass. They made us feel welcomed, introduced us to other people and we eventually found our way into the OLM community. If these wonderful people had not taken two minutes out of their day to talk with us, we may have been discouraged. Thankfully for us, we were welcomed as new members. Sometimes we all need to be reminded of that awkward feeling we had when we were ―the new kid‖, so that we can take a few moments to reach out to new OLM parishioners. Hopefully this will serve as that reminder. Please be kind and introduce yourself to new faces. Have a cup of coffee (or two!) on the patio and branch out. Smile and say ―hello‖ to the stranger sitting next to you. For all you know you could become the reason they feel comfortable at OLM. ▪

Man's way leads to a hopeless

end, while God's way leads to an endless hope

13


Patience with God

By Rev. Ronald Rolheiser There's an adage that says that an atheist is simply someone who cannot grasp metaphor. Thomas Halik, the Czech writer, would suggest rather that an atheist is

someone who cannot be patient enough with God.

There is a lot of truth in that. Patience with God is perhaps our greatest faith-struggle. God, it would seem, is never in a hurry and because of that we live with an impatience that can test the strongest faith and the stoutest heart.

Life, as we can all attest to, is not without its bitter frustrations and crushing heartaches. We all live with a lot of pain and unresolved tensions. Who among us doesn't experience regularly the pain of sickness, various kinds of personal and professional failure, some kind of humiliation, the inadequacy of self-expression, the soul-searing losses of loved ones, every kind of frustrated longing, and the nagging pain of life's inadequacy? In this life, there's no such a thing as a clear-cut, pure joy; rather everything comes with shadow. We do in fact live inside a certain valley of tears.

We are built for happiness, but pure happiness never quite finds us. Neither, it would seem, does justice. Jesus promised that the meek would inherit the earth, but mostly it doesn't

seem that way. The arrogant among us often believe that. There's an infamous Ziggy cartoon which shows him praying to God in these words: I just want to let you know that the meek are still getting clobbered down here! Often that appears to be the case. So where is God? Where is the truth in Jesus' promise about the meek inheriting the earth? In the face of long-standing global injustice we either live in a long-suffering patience with God or we come to believe that neither God's promises nor God's existence hold true.

When Jesus was dying on the cross, some onlookers where taunting him and challenging his message with the words: If you are the Son of God, let him rescue you! In essence: If God is real and your message is true, proof it right now! And God let Jesus die! The same held true for Jesus himself in the face of the death of Lazarus. In essence, he was being challenged: If you possess God's power in this world and you love this man, why don't you save him for dying? Jesus let Lazarus die! And the first community of disciples, immediately after the Ascension, painfully struggled with the same question: Jesus is God and he loves us - so why does he let us die?

Each of us asks that question in our own way because what we want is a God who rescues us, who intervenes actively for justice and goodness in this world, who acts visibly now in this life, and who doesn't let us get sick and die. None of us want a God who asks us to live in a life-long patience, predicated on the promise that in the end, whenever that will be, love and justice will prevail, all tears will be dried, and all will finally be well. We want life, love, justice, and consummation now, not in some distant future and only after a lifetime of heartache. God, as an old Jewish axiom puts it, is never in a hurry!

And so we live with a lot of expressed and unexpressed impatience with God. Atheists, it would seem, at a certain point just give up on playing the game and, in essence, say the words: I've seen enough; I've waited enough; and it's not enough! I will no longer wait for God! But if atheism is just another way of saying I will no longer wait for God than the opposite is also true: Faith is just another way of saying: I will wait for God. If atheism is impatience, faith is patience.

The Italian spiritual writer, Carlo Carretto, after spending more than 20 years in solitude as a monk in the Sahara desert, was asked what single thing he felt that he heard God most say to him inside of the long, deep silence. What, he was asked, do you hear God saying to the world? His answer: God is asking us to wait, to be patient!

Why the need for such great patience? Does God want to test us? Does God want to see if we indeed have a faith that is worthy of a great reward? No. God has no need to play such a game, and neither do we. It's not that God wants to test our patience. The need for patience arises out of the rhythms innate within life itself and within love itself. They need to unfold, as do flowers and pregnancies, according to their own innate rhythms and within their own good time. They cannot be rushed, no matter how great our impatience or how great our discomfort.

And neither can God be rushed because it is his timetable that protects us from perpetually stunting life and love by drawing them through the birth canal prematurely. ▪

Quiet Please !

Please do not linger around the church vestibule as there is a Spanish Mass at 12:30 and the Spanish parishioners need easier access to enter the church.

Some people come to church early to pray so please try to keep your voices down. Better yet, let us all to be in the patio by 12:15 and not linger in the vestibule. THANK YOU! ▪

14


Meet our Confirmation Candidates

& RCIA Members

Daniela Bosler

My name is Daniela Bosler. I am from Palm Springs, California and I moved to Madrid last September to study at the Universidad Complutense. I was raised

Catholic but never completed all the rites of initiation. I am a candidate for confirmation at Our Lady of Mercy. ▪

Tobias Brenninkmeijer

I am Tobias Brenninkmeijer and currently a confirmation candidate here at OLM. I attend the International

College of Spain and my hobbies revolve around music, sport and history. Confirmation had always been an objective of mine and before this year had been as much choice as fact. However this year I fully grasp the concept that being confirmed did not only mean a rite of passage to becoming a contributor to the Catholic community, but also full dedication to God. As Louise said becoming a Catholic makes you a representative of God and thus a soldier for good. It is for this that I would like to recognize Louise for her support in my spiritual growth and showing me the Way. ▪

Natasha Eloise Douglas

My name is Natasha Douglas. I am English though born in Madrid. I am currently studying at Hastings School. I am looking forward to doing my confirmation so that I can feel closer to God. Now, I feel like I'm out of reach for him.

After my confirmation I am looking forward to being able to connect more. Also it would make so so happy to know that I am a full member of OLM. The people here are so united and you can always see a smile on their faces, especially when a newcomer arrives, they are always greeted warmly and made to feel at home.▪

Carolyn Lewis

My name is Carolyn and I am currently working in Madrid from the United States. While in Madrid I was seeking a place to worship God and to continue spiritual growth for myself and my sons,

Matthew and Christopher. We immediately felt at home in the OLM Family and I knew this was the time to take these steps on our spiritual journeys. ▪

Bianca McKay

My name is Bianca McKay and I'm 13 years old. I'm in grade 8 at ICS (International College of Spain). I have been going to this parish for almost a year and I really love the atmosphere in the church when the choir sings and

everyone joins together. I want to get confirmed to become closer to God and develop a fuller relationship with him. ▪

Carmen-Rose McKay

I’m Carmen-Rose Mckay. I’m 15 years old. I attend International College of Spain; I’m in 10th Grade. My passions are acting and singing, I'd love to pursue a career in musical theatre, my dream is to play Glinda on the

West End. My favourite place in the world is the beach, just me the sea and my thoughts. I've been attending Our Lady of Mercy for a year and I want to be confirmed because I believe that it will strengthen my relationship with God and the church. Since I can remember the people who have been there for me unconditionally have been my family and God. Getting confirmed is my way of thanking God for everything he has done for me. I'm now choosing instead of being told to be part of the church.

This year I will be receiving the sacrament of Confirmation. Getting confirmed in OLM means a lot because we will officially become adult members of the church. My main motivation behind this huge commitment is my sister. She was confirmed two years ago and every since then, she has been very close to God. ▪

15


Lindsay Paoloni

My name is Lindsay Paoloni. I am from upstate New York. I have been in Spain for the last 5 (almost 6) years studying my undergrad and now I am currently on a scholarship studying a masters and doing an internship with Iberdrola. I started my long and wonderful

journey to Catholicism (or better said back to Catholicism since I was baptized as a baby but my family very informally practiced more along the lines of non-denominational Christians) slowly but surely by "stumbling" into a Jesuit university and later "stumbling" into catholic youth groups such as Bokatas which I got involved with in 2009 (a volunteer organization that works with homeless people). After participating in JMJ Madrid (World Youth day) the journey officially began and finally I will be receiving my first communion and confirmation and I am very excited about it! ▪

Julio Prado Díez

My name is Julio Prado Díez. I´m fourteen years old. I´ve been coming to Our Lady of Mercy parish for four consecutive years. This year I´m going to receive my confirmation. I want to be confirmed because Christianity

has help me through difficult moments. ▪

Nicholas Alejandro Robino

Hi, my name is Nico Robino. I am an American. I am 15 years old, and have been living in Madrid for 6 years. I have been attending Our Lady of Mercy since 2007 and I like coming to church with my family. I decided to be confirmed in my faith

because I want to confirm my faith as a Christian adult. I will receive the Holy Spirit and his gift will make me a better person than I was before. I want to thank my family, my confirmation teacher and sponsor Mrs. Louise Aulbach for supporting me and encouraging me to renew my faith as an adult. ▪

Alvaro Sebastian de Erice Martínez

My name is Alvaro Sebastián de Erice. I was born in Madrid in the year 1998. I first got to this parish ―our lady of mercy‖ approximately 6 years ago but started CCD lessons 3 years ago. I study in St. Anne's Madrid school in Torpedero de Tucuman.

During my week-ends, I play sports: tennis, paddle, football, sometimes squash… And at summer I do the same activities but including long boarding and surf. On Thursdays I play drums at the ―Ritmo y Compás‖ and previously I have played in many concerts.

The things I most like are sports (the ones previously mentioned, horror, car, war and simulation video games (slender man-the arrival, nascar sprint series video game, call of duty games, GTA IV/V) and spending time with my friends.

When I grow up, I would like to work for the fire department of Madrid (cuerpo de Bomberos Madrid). ▪

Robert Shaughnessy

I am proud to say that I am from the best part of England, the North(!), and have been in Madrid since September 2010.

Currently, I am Head of English at King's College in La Moraleja. OLM has really supported me and given me the opportunity to take Communion before my wedding day in March and also for my future wife and I to take the marriage preparation course. Thanks OLM!▪

Alicia Cristina Vergara Aragonez

My name is Ali Vergara and I am 14 years old. I have been coming to OLM for the past ten years. I attend now the American School of Madrid. I like to play instruments and dance. I would love to be a Musical director when I grow

up. I want to be confirm this year, because I want to take a closer step towards becoming a full Catholic and to be as close as I can to God. I also received my First Holy Communion at OLM and it is special to also be Confirmed here. ▪

16


Universal Laws

Law of Mechanical Repair - After your hands become coated with grease, your nose will begin to itch and you'll have to pee. Law of Gravity - Any tool, nut, bolt, screw, when dropped, will roll to the least accessible corner. Law of Probability -The probability of being watched is directly proportional to the stupidity of your act Law of Random Numbers - If you dial a wrong number, you never get a busy signal and someone always answers. Law of the Alibi - If you tell the boss you were late for work because you had a flat tire, the very next morning you will have a flat tire. Variation Law - If you change lines (or traffic lanes), the one you were in will always move faster than the one you are in now (works every time). Law of the Bath - When the body is fully immersed in water, the telephone rings. Law of Close Encounters -The probability of meeting someone you know increases dramatically when you are with someone you don't want to be seen with. Law of the Result - When you try to prove to someone that a machine won't work, it will. Law of Biomechanics - The severity of the itch is inversely proportional to the reach. The Coffee Law - As soon as you sit down to a cup of hot coffee, your boss will ask you to do something which will last until the coffee is cold. Murphy's Law of Lockers - If there are only two people in a locker room, they will have adjacent lockers. Law of Physical Surfaces - The chances of an open-faced jelly sandwich landing face down on a

floor, are directly correlated to the newness and cost of the carpet or rug. Law of Logical Argument - Anything is possible if you don't know what you are talking about. Brown's Law of Physical Appearance - If the clothes fit, they're ugly. Oliver's Law of Public Speaking - A closed mouth gathers no feet. Wilson's Law of Commercial Marketing Strategy - As soon as you find a product that you really like, they will stop making it.

Doctors' Law - If you don't feel well, make an appointment to go to the doctor, by the time you get there you'll feel better. But don't make an appointment, and you'll stay sick. ▪

Silence and Service: Pope Francis Captivates Catholics Worldwide

By Kevin Clarke

Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio, S.J., has become the first pope in 600 years to be elected in time to receive his predecessor’s blessing. But that is far from the only first that will be associated with the Argentine-born pontiff. The firsts begin with the name he selected; he is the first Francis in 266 papacies (no I required until there is a Francis II).

Meeting the world media for the first time on March 16, he explained his inspiration. Upon his election a fellow cardinal had congratulated him and said, ―Don’t forget the poor.‖ He took the words of his friend to heart, he said, and chose to be called after St. Francis of Assisi, ―the man of poverty, the man of peace, the man who loves and protects creation,‖ the same created world ―with which we don’t have such a good relationship.‖

He told the more than 5,000 media representatives who had come from around the world for the conclave and his election, ―How I would like a church that is poor and that is for the poor.‖

17


Francis is the first Jesuit pope; he is also the first pope from outside Europe in 1,200 years and the first pope from South America, where a greater percentage of the world’s Catholics now live than in Europe. ―The symbolism of choosing a pope from Latin America delights and touches us, most particularly in developing countries,‖ said Archbishop Stephen Brislin of Cape Town, South Africa, president of the Southern African Catholic Bishops’ Conference. ―Pope Francis is a person from humble beginnings,‖ the archbishop said. ―He has frequently and courageously spoken of the grave inequities afflicting the world, and his thirst for justice for all people will be a strong characteristic of his papacy.‖

His first gestures impressed millions of Catholics—and others—around the world, suggesting a sense of humility and solidarity that could prove a theme of this papacy. That humility is in keeping with the election itself—just about no one in the media considered the Argentine cardinal a contender. It is also true to the pope’s past demeanor as archbishop of Buenos Aires, where he eschewed the prerogatives of his position. Cardinal Bergoglio took the bus to work, cooked for himself and elected to live in a modest apartment instead of an episcopal palace.

Church bells tolled around the world with the announcement of the new pope, about 25 hours after 115 cardinal electors entered a conclave to consider who would succeed the retired Pope Benedict XVI. Catholic leaders worldwide expressed hope and joy, calling the faithful to come together as one body behind the papacy of Pope Francis. International political leaders also offered words of congratulations and pledged to work with the new pontiff on common goals and concerns in a complex world.

―His election may have taken many of us by surprise, including me,‖ said Archbishop Vincent Nichols of Westminster, England, president of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of England and Wales. ―But the more we learn about him, the more it becomes clear that the election of Pope Francis is an inspired one and that his papacy will be inspiring.‖

Argentines expressed shock and pride at their cardinal’s unexpected elevation. ―He came from the end of the world,‖ the daily La Nación announced in a headline, stealing a line the pope used himself the night of his election. Argentines recall Pope Francis as personable, with a common touch—someone who took time for ordinary people.

―He’s the same person now as he was then,‖ said a hardware store owner, Antonio Franco, who was taught catechism by the young Father Bergoglio.

Despite his reputation as an austere intellectual, Pope Francis showed a deft personal touch as a cardinal, visiting with the Argentine church’s most vulnerable people, the poor and people suffering from AIDS. He has called for more pastoral care of

divorced Catholics, and he memorably castigated Argentine priests who refused baptism to the child of an unwed mother as ―today’s hypocrites.‖

As archbishop of Buenos Aires, Pope Francis led protests against abortion laws and same-sex marriage but reportedly was willing to accept civil unions as a compromise. He also protested against corruption—a touchy topic in Argentina. Pope Francis has been at times scathing in his criticism of the International Monetary Fund and the global economic system, especially after the peso crisis in Argentina in 2001. ―This choice of pope puts service to the poor and tackling injustice at the forefront of the church’s mission in the world,‖ Tom O’Connor, a spokesperson for Britain’s Catholic Agency for Overseas Development, commented.

Born in Buenos Aires on Dec. 17, 1936, Jorge Mario Bergoglio studied chemical engineering, but then chose the priesthood. In 1957 he survived a severe case of pneumonia, and his right lung was partially removed as a result of the illness. The next year he entered the novitiate of the Society of Jesus. He was ordained in 1969. He eventually served as superior of the Jesuits in Argentina in the 1970s during a trying and dangerous time, as a military junta waged the so-called Dirty War against perceived leftists. Thousands perished, including priests, seminarians and religious.

That tenure has long proved controversial, with some criticizing him and other Argentine prelates for not doing more to stand up to the generals or, worse, acting in some degree of complicity with them. In a court deposition he denied acting in any way with the junta, and the Vatican spokesperson Federico Lombardi, S.J., said there has never been ―a concrete or credible accusation‖ against the pope. Lombardi charged that the accusations come from ―anticlerical elements to attack the church‖ and ―must be firmly rejected.‖

He became auxiliary bishop of Buenos Aires in 1992 and later its archbishop, and from November 2005 to November 2011 he was president of the Episcopal Conference of Argentina. He was made a cardinal by Pope John Paul II in 2001.

Hailing from the church’s ―growth regions‖ in the global south, Pope Francis can be expected to be attuned to the concerns of developing nations and problems of global inequity and human deprivation. His parents were Italian immigrants to Argentina, and he was raised in a thoroughly Europeanized culture. That background may put some of the Roman Curia’s cardinals at ease. If the ―only Nixon could go to China‖ analogy can be applied in this instance, it could be that only a Pope Francis could push through the Curia’s obstructed doors and truly effect its reform. ▪

"Love begins by taking care of the closest ones - the ones at home." Mother Teresa ▪

18


Young Adult Group

Janet Girardot | 671 717 102 | [email protected]

The OLM Young Adult Group (YAG) meets every other Thursday at 9pm the ABBA Hotel near Metro stations Av. America and Cartagena. They try and plan

at least one event per month, such as a trip to the ice-skating rink at Palacio de Hielo. Please visit the group’s facebook page at www.facebook.com/groups/161723790640949 or contact Janet by phone or e-mail. The OLM Young Adult Group (YAG) meets every other Thursday at 9pm the ABBA Hotel near Metro stations Av. America and Cartagena. They try and plan at least one event per month, such as a trivia night, karaoke, or potluck. Please visit the group’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/groups /161723790640949 or contact Janet by phone or email. Upcoming gatherings: April April 4th (Thursday)= YouCat April 18th (Thursday)= Topic TBD April 21st (Sunday)= RCIA Confirmation & Celebration / Potluck dinner Social Event: TBD May May 9th (Thursday) - YouCat May 18th (Saturday)- OLM Concert/Social Event May 23rd (Thursday) - Topic TBD Social Event: TBD June June 6th (Thursday)- YouCat June 20th (Thursday)- Topic TBD Social Event: TBD ▪

OLM Language Prog ram

David Franklin | 627 046 056

If you need to learn Spanish and don’t have time during the week. If you are looking for professional, experienced, practical and kind teachers. Don’t look any further!

OLM offers Spanish classes every Sunday after CCD at 13:00 in the parish rooms. The lessons are FUN, FREE, and FOR ANYONE, whatever your level, or nationality.

For further information talk to David Franklin, Sofia or Ana. ▪

Rosar y Group

Marcel Adolphus

Did you know that the Rosary Group meets every Sunday at 10:30 AM in the small chapel? If

you would like to honor God through Marian devotion, please

join the group any Sunday. For more information, please speak to Marcel at

10:15 AM on Sunday by the small chapel. ▪

Parishioner Owned & Operated Business

mailto:[email protected]

http://www.facebook.com/groups/161723790640949

19


OLM Suppor t Group

C.J. Muñoz | 91 316 1556 | chelui.munoz2hotmail.com

It is time to get the OLM support group going again and I have been tossing around some ideas as to just what might be the topic(s) most needed by those of you who may be interested. Women´s issues has been suggested along with grieving, job loss, marriage counseling, families, parenting, and so on. The list can be a long one, but it would be nice to get together a group of 6 to 8 people who share a common interest. If you are interested, please fill out the following information and leave it with me after mass or with Father Ron or email me. NAME CONTACT NUMBER TOPIC OF INTEREST I know there are people in our parish that could find a support group helpful so please contact me. Sharing your coping issues can sometimes seem intimidating or embarrassing. I´m sure you will find that this is not the case and will feel happy that you joined. CJ Muñoz ▪

Charismat ic Prayer Group

David Franklin | 627 046 056

The Charismatic Prayer Group is happy to announce the names of the new service leaders:

Richard Onyibo as the Coordinator

Ifeanyi Franklin Akujieze as the Assistant Cordinator

Ruth Izogie as the Secretary

Emeka Patrick Okafor and David Franklin Odiegwu will also be members of the Service Team.

If you would like to experience the power and the gift of the Holy Spirit we encourage you to come to fellowship with us every Saturday at 6:00 pm in the parish rooms. ▪

Bible Study Group

The Bible Study Group meets with Fr. Jim O’Leary or Richard Rzepczyk (from our parish) almost every Sunday after Mass.

This great activity is open to everyone. If you would like to try it out, just go to the Kocina Dos restaurant after Mass or see Blanca Castro for more information. ▪

Choir

Elke Wilson | 91 277 0454 | [email protected]

Can you sing a tune without your dog hiding under the sofa or the neighbours calling the police? Then join our international OLM choir.

All are welcome: the more voices we have the more powerful will be our

singing!!! Previous experience or ability to read music is NOT necessary.

We rehearse every Sunday before Mass in the parish building. Please arrive NO LATER THAN 10:15AM so we can start promptly. If you are interested, please contact our choir director or simply turn up! ▪

Good Neighbour Fund

Clara Guillen-Merino | 627 046 056 | [email protected]

OLM parishioners band together when the neediest of our parish need help. Especially during this time of economic crisis, we need to do all we can to help our neighbor. Our second collection in February rendered us 580,19 euros. One of

our parishioners, Camila Bennett, made rosaries in Argentina and sold them at OLM and all the money was donated to the Good Neighbor Fund, we have collected 140 euros thus far. Our popcorn sale in February brought in 65 euros. All in all, we, the parishioners, raised 785,19! This is a true testament of our commitment to the support of our mission. As we evaluate the transition of our committee members this summer, we are in desperate need of volunteers to join the Good Neighbor Committee. All it entails is an hour a month at our fund raisers and the desire to help your neighbor. If you are interested in joining the team, please email me at [email protected].

Thank you for your constant support!

If you would like to make a monthly bank transfer, here are the account details:

The Account details are:

Parroquia Habla Inglesa – Ntra. Sra. De La Merced Account Number: 2100 2434 48 0200241016 LaCaixa, Calle Drácena 15, 28016 Madrid. ▪

A lot of kneeling will keep you in good

standing


20


Mardi Gras Pot Luck Review

Michele Martorell | 91 759 5402 | [email protected]

It has become a tradition at OLM to celebrate Mardi Gras (originating from the French for ―Fat Tuesday‖) on the Sunday before Ash Wednesday. On February 10 we celebrated Mardi Gras with a Parish Pot Luck of breakfast and lunch foods as well as sweets/desserts. Not only did we share a meal but we also provided a meal for those in our parish who might need it.

After Mass, the children bought their pastries and went to their CCD classes. Then with the help of some wonderful volunteers, 2 large tables of food served as our buffet. There was a single table for sweets/desserts. After CCD classes, the teachers and children joined the rest of the parish. At that time the teachers brought their plates of food to share.

These events where over 125 people are served are not possible without the help of volunteers. There are those unnoticed helpers who are indispensible and thank you. A great big thank you to those who brought food. It was delicious! All leftovers were packed into plastic containers and distributed to those in our parish who needed it. It’s impossible to thank everyone who helped but here’s a try: The first thank you goes to those who came early to help set up! Special thanks to Meredith Slevin, Mimi Britt and Richelle Zuniga who prepared hot crock-pot meals. Thanks go to the Good Neighbor Fund committee Clara Guillen Merino and Bianca Smith who took care of the sweets/dessert table along with Camilla Bennett, Anne Molinari and Post Confirmation young people Alexis Merino and Monica Pinel. The 2 large buffet tables were watched over by Julie Hoare, Felicity Renshaw, Mimi Britt and her daughter Olivia, Richelle Zuniga and Luis Aguilar. Paul Bourgeois did an amazing job serving drinks as well as coming early to help set up. And last but not least, thanks to

our ―guys‖ who set up and put away the tables and then cleaned up the patio after the event. Anyone who helped but wasn’t personally thanked, the Lord above thanks you. Without volunteers, this lovely event would not have been possible. ▪

Did You Know?

Fr. Ron has only ONE DAY off a week. It is Monday. Please know that if you try and call Fr. Ron on Mondays, he will probably not be available. ▪

Parishioner Owned & Operated Business

Having problems

with your PC or IT equipment?

Call the

Free Consultations!

91 128 7355

21


Fellowship on Sundays

Michele Martorell | 91 759 5402 | [email protected] Fellowship after Mass is an integral part of life at Our Lady of Mercy. We get together after Mass every Sunday. We serve a great cup

of coffee for 50 cents and Starbucks for 1 Euro. In addition, we have hot/cold chocolate and a variety of teas. A Madrid bakery delivers fresh pastries every Sunday morning. And they are very good! Winter weather in Madrid can be cold. The new outdoor heaters and repaired awning/toldo are providing a warm patio environment. It is quite pleasant to enjoy a hot beverage and pastry and socialize on the patio while the children are in their CCD classes. During the past 3 months we have enjoyed a Mardi Gras Pot Luck (review in this issue) and a Popcorn sale sponsored by the Good Neighbor Fund. With the arrival of Spring, Fellowship will include Confirmation and First Holy Communion celebrations.

Part of participating in the CCD program involves volunteering at least once to serve coffee or pastries during the fellowship. Thank you to all volunteers! Even if you don't have children in the CCD program, volunteering is a great way to meet our parishioners! Fellowship at Our Lady of Mercy is an on-going ministry since we are active every Sunday. Therefore we need volunteers on a weekly basis throughout the year. Please call Michele or Meredith if you'd like to volunteer.

Any would-be volunteer who might be shy to come forward should not be concerned that this ministry is "difficult." Every Sunday at least one member of the Fellowship team is serving, David Franklin, Meredith Slevin, or Michele Martorell. Please approach us! There is nothing difficult in volunteering; only rewarding. PASTRIES VOLUNTEERS: There should be at least 2 of you serving/selling the pastries. Selling is hectic since the children have about 15 minutes to buy and eat their pastries before CCD classes begin. Remember to leave Mass before the congregation sings the exit hymn. Pick up the pastries in the kitchen area and bring them to the patio. The pastries sell for 1 euro each. Schedules altar servers get a free pastry! The collected money should be given to Meredith, David or Father Ron. COFFEE VOLUNTEER: The coffee volunteer will help with selling/serving coffee, tea and Nesquik. As with the pastries, leave Mass early, before the

congregation sings the exit hymn, so that you can help bring up the drinks from the kitchen area to the patio. David Franklin coordinates the preparation of the coffee and setting up the tables and chairs on the patio. Magnus Chukweumezueudeh will be returning to Nigeria for a few months. We will really miss him. He has been very reliable in overseeing the sale of juice and soda every week. Scheduled altar servers also get a free beverage. We are currently looking for a volunteer to take his place while he is away. ▪

Food Col lect ion and Distr ibut ion

Luis Muñoz | 91 316 1556 | [email protected]

The economic crisis continues and there are families in the parish that depend on our food collection for survival.

The official Sunday for food collection is the 2nd Sunday of every month. This is the

Sunday when parishioners can bring their donations of food to the altar during the Offertory. Remember though, that EVERY Sunday donations are welcomed in the kitchen area. We are especially grateful for fresh fruit and yogurt. During Lent, we are asking to bring food every Sunday, if you can.

The following suggestions are some of the types of foods that we have requested in the past: milk, oil, long grain rice, canned tuna, canned beans and stews, cookies, juices, canned meats, (low in salt if possible), fried tomato sauce, canned fruits, sugar, instant coffee. Easy open containers are most welcome.

More importantly, our OLM nurse, Deanna Mason, has made these suggestions for good heart health: Oatmeal (avena in Spanish), Couscous, Quinoa, Eggs, Spices (pepper, paprika, saffron, cinnamon, mustard without salt, dried basil, dried thyme, dried oregano), Potatoes, Whole wheat pasta, Natural fruit, Nuts without salt, Fresh vegetables.

Our younger parishioners need single serving boxed juices which they can take to school during the week for their merienda/snack. Fresh fruit can be dropped off in the kitchen area any Sunday.

In addition to the food donated by the parishioners, Marianna Zanchi has arranged with the Eroski/Caprabo grocery stores of her neighborhood to donate food items that they can’t sell because of damaged packaging, near expiration date or fresh items, which haven’t been sold before the weekend. We collect this food on Sunday morning and deliver to OLM. Marianna and Mike Schneider coordinate this Sunday food collection.

David Franklin and Luis Munoz oversee the distribution of food on Sundays with the invaluable help of Calistus, who, along with other people, stores and distribute the food at OLM. ▪

22


Have you registered? All OLM parishioners should be registered. This is an expectation for every Catholic parish throughout the world. If you have not yet registered, please pick up a New Parishioner Registration Form from the table in the vestibule or request it ―online‖ by sending an email to: [email protected]

Please complete the form and return it to Fr. Ron personally. Also, if you know of a parishioner who is in need or you think may enjoy a call from Fr. Ron, please let him know. ▪

Parish Counci l

Blanca de Castro, 91 570 8248 Spanish Liaison

Nancy Deutman, 91 731 9714 Director of Religious Education, Secretary

Brian Douglas, 91 320 3194 Sacristan and Ushers

Alex Esclamado, 607 095 777 IT and Liturgy

David Franklin, 627 046 056 Charismatic Prayer Group

Barbara Lahuerta, 91 715 2550 Book Sale Coordinator

Michele Martorell, 91 759 5402 Hospitality Coordinator

Deanna Mason, 91 351 2334 Parish Nurse

Fr. Ron Ochylski, 91 718 5571 President

Mike Schneider, 91 639 1564 Facilitator, Vocations, RCIA

Financia l Counci l

Norman Kurtis

Luis Muñoz

Mike Schneider

Elke Wilson

VARIOUS

Alcoholics Anonymous

Do you have a problem with alchol? We can help! AA Info line 91 309 1947

Alcoholics Anonymous is a fellowship of men and women who share their experience, strength and hope with each other that they may solve their common problem and help others to recover from alcoholism.

The only requirement for AA membership is a desire to stop drinking. There are no dues or fees; we are self supporting through our own contributions. Our primary purpose is to stay sober and help other alcoholics to achieve sobriety. To access our WEBSITE MEETING DIRECTORY please go to www.aaspain.org ▪

Cloth ing Col lect ion

Please do NOT leave food or clothes donations near the CARITAS office inside the church as it belongs to the Spanish church. OLM donations

should be taken to the CCD rooms and placed underneath the stairs as you walk in! Thank you! ▪

OLM Extet

6 voices, piano & guitar. Specialised in modern & traditional church music, gospels and spirituals. Good quality musical accompaniment for weddings, baptisms, or other social events. For further information, contact Alex, Carlos or Delories or call Elke on 91 277 0454 or Daniel on 660 912 554. ▪

Chi ld Care at OLM

After our best efforts, we could not find a suitable child care service to alleviate the challenge of a fussy child at Mass.

It has been noticed that when a child cries (as they do) some parents simply ignore the disturbance the child is causing. Please be considerate to others and take your crying child to the sacristy, vestibule or small chapel if they are causing too much disturbance. Thank you for your cooperation! ▪

Dressmaking, Alterations & Repairs

For all your sewing, alterations & repair needs, call OLM parishioner Lilian Osayuwa on 696 154 387. ▪


http://www.aaspain.org/

23


Sponsor a Hymn

Do you have a favorite hymn that you would like the choir to sing? If it is appropriate and something that we can learn, we now offer you the possibility of sponsoring that hymn. You can choose the singer as well!

What’s the catch? We ask you to make a special donation to the church. If you are interested, see Elke, the choir director. ▪

Loving Parents

As Gayle was getting to know Jim and his family, she was very impressed by how much his parents loved each other. "They're so thoughtful," Gayle said. "Why, your dad even brings your mom a cup

of hot coffee in bed every morning."

After a time, Gayle and Jim were engaged, and then they married. On the way from the wedding to the reception, Gayle again remarked on Jim's loving parents and even the coffee in bed. "Tell me," she said, "does it run in the family?"

"It sure does," replied Jim. "And I take after my mom." ▪

Fun with Puns

A Good Pun Is Its Own Reword

Energizer Bunny arrested - charged with battery.

A pessimist's blood type is always b-negative.

Shotgun wedding: A case of wife or death.

I used to work in a blanket factory, but it folded.

Marriage is the mourning after the knot before.

A hangover is the wrath of grapes.

Corduroy pillows are making headlines.

Sea captains don't like crew cuts.

Does the name Pavlov ring a bell?

A successful diet is the triumph of mind over platter.

Time flies like an arrow. Fruit flies like a banana.

A gossip is someone with a great sense of rumor.

Without geometry, life is pointless.

When you dream in color, it's a pigment of your imagination.

Reading whilst sunbathing makes you well-red.

When two egotists meet, it's an I for an I.

Give God what's right - Not what's

left!

http://www.google.es/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&frm=1&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&docid=VEwgvHLeqzasGM&tbnid=H-mIChIc4JpkZM:&ved=0CAUQjRw&url=http://nandinipoems.blogspot.com/2010/09/samajva-ni-saruaat.html&ei=4AFDUefaMIid0QWwl4GQBw&bvm=bv.43828540,d.ZG4&psig=AFQjCNGaL3kjqzCohz3OhD5L-d7vBuWE5g&ust=1363432260933770

24


CCD News April-June 2013

Nancy Deutman | 630 453 355 | [email protected]

This is the busiest time of year for CCD – many events are scheduled so please make a note on your calendars!

In April there will be CCD every Sunday except April 21st

(Confirmation).

April 13th (Saturday) – Confirmation retreat from 12 to 6 pm.

April 14th Blessing of Confirmation candidates.

April 20th (Saturday) at 5:00 pm. - Confirmation rehearsal.

April 21st Confirmation at 10:45 am, please remember to come early!

In May there will be CCD every Sunday except May 5th.

The May Children’s Mass is presented by Level 2 and their teacher, Florence Daniel. It is our annual Marian Homage and Level 1 students will also participate.

May 5th pre-registration for CCD 2013-2014 starts for new students of currently registered families.

We again offer the possibility of registration by e-mail ([email protected] - FOR REGISTRATION ONLY). Nancy, Louise and Barbara will be on the patio after Mass on the 5th, 12th, and 19th of May (and someone TBA after June 23rd until July 29th ) for pre-registration. We will ask you to verify your data, especially cell phone numbers and e-mail addresses. Then you will be given copies of the Religious Education agreement to be returned to Nancy with your payment.

REBATE: The registration fee per family will be 30 Euros if you pay before June 30th; after that date and until classes start in September, the fee will be 35 Euros. Books can be paid now or in September (NO price increase!), and will be distributed in September before classes start. We will have a limited selection of used books available for the needy members of the parish – see Nancy privately for more information.

New student registration will take place by appointment only in September – see our website for updated information in August. You may contact Fr. Ron or me by phone from August 30th to schedule your appointment.

Please note that all CCD families are expected to take a turn at helping during the hospitality hour (while students are in CCD class), either selling pastries or serving hot beverages. We ask that you select a date during registration time and we will give you a reminder to keep. The schedule for the following week is announced at the end of Mass each week to help remind you.

On Saturday, the 11th of May at 5:00 pm, our FHC and FHCS candidates will make their First Confessions in the main chapel with Fr. Ron.

This year, for the first time, we have two classes preparing for First Holy Communion and THERE WILL BE TWO CEREMONIES:

May 25th (Saturday) – rehearsal FHCS at 5pm in the main chapel.

May 26th First Holy Communion Special class ceremony begins at 10:45 am.

Thank you to Kate Dobson for preparing these older children for the last two years and to Julie Hoare for continuing with the class after Kate ―retired‖ in February to await the birth of her first child.

June 1st (Saturday) – rehearsal FHC at 5pm in the main chapel.

June 2nd First Holy Communion class ceremony begins at 10:45 am.

Thank you to co-teachers Joanne Plunkett and Mike Gillis and assistant, Sister Rosa, for preparing the class this year.

In June there will be NO CCD on the 2nd (FHC) and the 23rd & 30th.

June 9th Celebration party on the patio sponsored by FHCS and FHC class parents.

June 16th last day of CCD. ―Graduation‖ ceremony will take place during Mass and attendance certificates will be distributed during CCD afterwards.

Check the OLM website for information and pictures of all the above events.

For those of you who leave Madrid for the summer, enjoy your holidays. See you again in September!

Thank you all for your participation and your donations of time, talent, or treasure which makes the Our Lady of Mercy CCD program possible. ▪ Nancy Deutman Director, Religious Education, OLM 649 285 582 or office at 91 350 3449

Thought for the Day

25


How to Talk to an Atheist about Christianity

By Jason Anderson and Jennifer Fulwiler Once upon a time, not so long ago, atheism was the belief system that dared not speak its name. Even the most ardent skeptic paid lip service to faith, or at least to the blessings that mankind derived from it. But that's not the case anymore. Atheism is a strong and growing influence in our culture. You can see it everywhere from the bestseller table at your local bookstore to the Darwin-mutated Jesus fish on the car in traffic in front of you. Atheists are comfortable declaring themselves atheists, comfortable promoting atheism, and comfortable decrying religion, which, according to some of the more prominent atheists, resides on the list of mankind's blessings somewhere between diphtheria and Nazism. And now that we're encountering it more often, Christians sometimes find themselves ill-prepared to deal with this kind of muscular atheism. Especially for lifelong Christians, atheist arguments are so foreign that they don't know how to respond, and too often lapse into anger ("How dare you?!") or fear ("What if they're right?!"), neither of which does anyone any good, harming the Christian's witness and leaving the atheist firmly entrenched in his atheism. If we're going to be encountering more atheists (and we are, whether at work or the laundromat or around our own dinner tables), we should be prepared to explain our beliefs in a way that resonates with people outside the faith. As a starting point, what follows is a list of do's and don'ts to keep in mind when you find yourself discussing religion with an atheist: 1. Don't be afraid to admit that you have faith. Christians frequently report that they've been in situations where the topic of why they believe comes up, and all they can say is that they have faith even though they've never done any major investigation. They often seem embarrassed by this defense. If you get caught in a conversation about why you believe and that's all you've got, don't be afraid to go with that. Articulate it as best you can. For example, you might explain that your faith is not just a story you tell yourself to feel good, or talk about what leads you to believe that you have a real relationship with Something outside of the material world. 2. Don't assume that your atheist friends are secretly angry at God or feel like something is missing in their lives. Work from the assumption that this person is an atheist because he or she simply has not seen any evidence that God exists.

3. Don't quote the Bible, but do know the Bible. The Bible is a source of great wisdom, but if you quote it to an atheist as an authority, it will be like your doctor explaining his diagnosis by reading a passage from a Harry Potter book. Don't just cough up Bible verses and expect that to convince anybody. There are reasons why the Bible says the things it says. Know the reasons behind them and be prepared to explain them. 4. Don't feel like you have to have all the answers right then and there. It is far better to simply say, "Great question! I don't know the answer to that, but I'd love to research it and get back to you," than to wade into territory that you're not familiar with. 5. Explain the big picture. Familiarize yourself with the historical case for Christianity, and offer a high-level explanation of what makes this religion's claims compelling -- that Jesus' life and death fulfilled ancient scriptures that all historians agree existed before His time; that almost all the apostles were martyred for their faith; that Christianity spread like wildfire despite horrendous persecution. Study the writings of the earliest Christians, who were defending Christianity in a pagan world that was largely hostile to their beliefs (sound familiar?). 6. Be logical. Don't deny the validity of logical, scientific thought out of hand. It's true that science doesn't have all the answers, but it does have some of them, and if you try to deny that, you risk pushing yourself into crackpot territory. As Pope Benedict XVI is always reminding us, the God in whom we believe is a God of reason. There is a long, learned history of rational arguments for Christianity, and if you can use them, you'll be speaking in terms that your atheist friend can understand. Get to know some of the great Christian philosophers and apologists. If you haven't read C. S. Lewis's Mere Christianity, what are you waiting for? 7. Realize that your only goal is to plant a seed. In these discussions we can sometimes get so focused on the details that we lose sight of the big picture. It's extremely unlikely that the person you're talking to is going to be completely convinced of the truth of Christianity in one conversation. Just defend Christianity the best you can, and remember that conversion is ultimately God's job, not yours. 8. Put yourself in your atheist friends' position. What if, for example, Christianity was false and Greek mythology was actually true? What would it take to convince you of that? 9. Don't use a lot of Christian catchphrases. Christians "give their hearts to Jesus" and "the Holy Spirit indwells us" and we take a "daily walk with Christ" so that we're "in the world but not of the world." All these phrases are meaningful and profound and instantly understandable for almost

26


any Christian, but they don't mean anything to people who are outside the faith. It's hard to avoid them, because we're used to using them as shorthand for some very complex concepts. But you should be able to explain those concepts in plain terms anyway. 10. Pray. Don't make the mistake of relying solely on your own smarts when you have the Holy Spirit at your disposal. Pray for guidance for yourself and for a receptive heart within your atheist friend. You might be surprised at the effectiveness of this technique. It'll be good for you, too. We're not encouraging anyone to go out and pick a fight -- no one ever got harangued into the family of God. But with a little mental preparation, when the time comes, you'll be ready to present the case for faith in terms that are familiar to your non-believing friends and family members.

------------------

Jason Anderson is a web developer from Birmingham, Alabama, who posts thoughts on religion and culture at The Cynical Christian. Jennifer Fulwiler is a writer from Austin, Texas, who converted to Catholicism from lifelong atheism in 2007. She chronicles her ongoing conversion at ConversionDiary.com. ▪

27


Phys ica l Therap is t - Ja ime Cebr ián Fernández

( h i g h l y r e c om m e n d e d b y F r . R o n a n d M i c h e l e M a r t o r e l l )

J a i m e u n d e r s t a n d s E n g l i s h a n d c a n h e l p w i t h b a c k a n d n e c k p r o b l e m s , a r t h r o s i s , a n d e v e n m i g r a i n e s !

28


A Special Thanks to Jose Manuel OLM’s unofficial and talented photographer and to the YAG for sending in pictures to [email protected]

Documents

1 Our Lady of Mercy Parish The English-speaking Beseler Felicity Renshaw Janet Walls FHCS Students FHC Students Fellowship Michele Martorell 91 759 5402 Meredith Slevin 91 775 6962