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Cardinal Parolin to lead Rosary for Pope's health in St. Peters Square Vatican New file photo of rosary procession in St. Peter's Square. According to Vatican News , the Holy See Press Office released a statement announcing that "starting Monday February 24, the Cardinals residing in Rome, along with all collaborators of the Roman Curia and the Diocese of Rome, responding to the sentiments of the people of God, will gather in St. Peter's Square at 9:00 PM (1:00 MST) to recite the Holy Rosary for the health of the Holy Father." Catholic News Agency (CNA) reports "the prayer initiative comes as the 88-year-old pontiff continues his recovery at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, where he was admitted on Feb. 14 for what the Vatican then described as a mild flu condition." "During his Sunday Angelus message, which was read on his behalf, the pope expressed gratitude for the “closeness and prayers” he has received during his hospitalization," said CNA. For more information, visit EWTN VATICAN

Salt & Light Radio's 10th annual Idaho Men's Conference brings together grandfathers, fathers and sons. Father Joshua Waltz leads the assembly in prayer during Adoration at Salt & Light Radio's annual Idaho Catholic Men's Conference at Holy Apostles Parish in Meridian on Feb. 1. (ICR Photo/Joe Egbert) By Gene Fadness for the ICR MERIDIAN —About 970 men attended Salt & Light Radio's annual Idaho Catholic Men’s Conference at Holy Apostles Church in Meridian, with about another 200 at watch parties throughout the state, according to Johnny Horn and Travis Wingo, who have been the primary organizers of the event throughout its 10-year history. “It’s really good to see grandfathers and fathers bringing their sons. This conference is becoming a staple in the community that men look forward to every year,” said Wingo. Over the span of the decade, the event has become one of the “premier conferences” in the Northwest, if not the largest, Wingo noted. “We are in a groove, finally at a point where other places are seeking our advice, which has allowed us to help with other conferences around the nation.” The conference began with a morning Mass celebrated by Bishop Peter Christensen. Speakers included Father Joshua Waltz, a priest in the Diocese of Bismarck, N.D.; Joseph Vogel, an Idaho native and founder of InitiateMen.com ; and Jason Evert, a well-known Catholic author and chastity speaker. Wingo explained that because of the culture that exists today, the over- arching theme that Catholic men must seek a deeper spiritual life, strengthen their families and enliven the Church has been echoed at nearly all past Idaho conferences.   Each year, Salt & Light Radio brings the Idaho Catholic Men's Conference to the Diocese of Boise , as well as the Idaho Catholic Women's Conference, Conferencia Católica de Hombres de Idaho and Congreso Católico de Mujeres en Idaho. JOSEPH VOGEL , who worked in youth ministry for more than 20 years with NET Ministries, said we have become a “fatherless nation.” He quoted the American philosopher-poet Henry David Thoreau, who said, “I see the mass of men leading lives of quiet desperation.” Today’s culture is not much different, even to the point of killing its children, Vogel said. He encouraged the men at the conference not to forget that “God says you have only one King—worship Me or worship the world.” Vogel encouraged fathers to create initiation rituals for their sons to help them become the men God calls them to be and welcome them into the community of men. “We don’t do this well in our culture,” Vogel said. Vogel and his wife have eight children and a nephew they have recently taken in. When a son turns 13, Vogel takes him for a steak dinner. “I talk about manhood with him: rejecting passivity, loving sacrificially and living charitably.” Before dinner, they stop at a chapel where Vogel asks his son to pray for a word that helps him understand his emerging role as a man. At dinner, Vogel explained that he gifts his son a Bible, connecting the celebration with faith in Jesus, who is the ultimate example of what it means to be a man. He also gives his son a shaving kit “with a serious razor.” The son’s first shave becomes a well-photographed family event. The culture today says that masculinity is “toxic,” Vogel said. “Masculinity is not spoken about in a positive manner anymore.” Yet, Vogel added that a genuine masculinity that is self-sacrificing is exactly what the culture needs. Fathers who are truly present in the home are essential to restoring a culture that values masculinity and femininity. “When fathers are not present, boys have difficulty expressing emotion, have increased aggression, mental health struggles and higher rates of depression,” he said. It’s vital that sons be given responsibilities so they can develop self-respect and self-discipline and won’t look for validation outside the home, Vogel noted. “Boys can have distorted views of what it means to be a man and then adopt harmful stereotypes of masculinity like violence, emotional detachment and dominance,” Vogel said. “They struggle with roles in society, community and family; and are insecure in their identity as men.” Boys struggle in their relationships when fathers are not present, Vogel explained, resulting in a lack of a sense of belonging, which can lead them to join gangs and extremist groups. “They become manipulative,” he said, which poses a greater risk of physical, emotional and sexual abuse in their own families. “They carry unresolved issues throughout their lives, which leads to generational cycles of bad parenting and more cycles of absenteeism and instability.” Vogel encouraged fathers to plan initiations for their sons or traditions and ceremonies that include “inspiration, invitation and initiation.” Vogel spoke of his own father, who had moved 25 times before graduating from high school. After settling in Jerome, Vogel’s dad promised himself and his future wife that he would not do the same to his family. Joseph Vogel, the brother of Father Caleb Vogel, vicar general for the Diocese of Boise, said his parents are still in Jerome after 55 years of marriage. “We had stability from mom and dad; we saw mom and dad loving one another. And we were part of a community of believers, so there was also this opportunity to participate in community.” In his own family, Vogel said he makes sure his children know he has a relationship with Jesus and that the children see their parents pray. Listen to Father Tom Foley speak at the 10th annual Idaho Catholic Men's Conference sponsored by Salt & Light Radio.   FATHER JOSHUA WALTZ , a priest in the Diocese of Bismarck, N.D., spoke about the biblical theme of forgetting God and needing God’s mercy. Recalling God’s saving signs from the Old Testament, Father Waltz challenged the men at the conference, saying, “You forgot.” “You forgot who got you out of Egypt; you forgot who saved you and who worked incredible wonders to save you from tyranny.” To remember God, men need to do three things, Father Watlz said: pray, love the cross and “do the things that He asks us to do.” Father Waltz said the average Christian man spends only about six and a half minutes a day in prayer. “When I really started praying, my whole life changed. I began to see things differently; I was awake for the first time,” Father Waltz said. Prayer might seem boring at times, “but prayer isn’t about you,” he said. “The more we enter into it, the more we see Jesus working everywhere and at all times.” The theme of the conference was “Viva Cristo Rey!” which means “Long live Christ the King,” the battle cry of the Cristeros who fought against the Mexican government that was suppressing the Church and killing priests in the 1920s. A banner of one of those priests, Blessed Miguel Pro, reminded men that serving the Lord can often mean resisting the prevailing culture. In loving the cross, we begin to understand that we were made for relationship with a person, Father Waltz said. “We are made for communion.” The world says, “Come down from the cross, and then we’ll believe,” he said, recalling the words of the chief priests, scribes and elders as Jesus was hanging on the Cross (see Mt. 27:41-42). Those in the world don’t want the message of the Cross at the center of their lives. “There’s something that you need to do that you haven’t done; that’s the message of the Cross,” he said. “The world is trying to pull us off the Cross. Jesus is trying to pull us onto it. What’s getting in your way?” he said. BISHOP PETER CHRISTENSEN exhorted the men to grow deeper in their relationship with Jesus by being attentive to the call to discipleship. When the disciples agreed to follow Jesus, they were, most likely, already aware of him, but there was an attraction, an intrigue to follow Him, even if they did not fully understand what that would mean, the Bishop said. They likely progressed from mental knowledge to a more profound “heart knowledge” because Jesus was able to engage the disciples to grow closer to Him. “Just when you think you have the Lord figured out,” Jesus calls us to deeper growth in our relationship with Him, Bishop Peter said. Not long after Bishop Peter was ordained to the priesthood in 1985, he was asked to become the spiritual director of the St. John Vianney College Seminary in St. Paul, Minn., near the parish where he was a pastor. Eighteen months into that call, the seminary rector had a health issue, and, then-Father Peter, was asked to become the acting rector. Not long after, the rector returned and asked him to become the permanent rector. Archbishop John Roach of the Archdiocese of Minneapolis-St. Paul asked Father Peter to turn the seminary around, noting that it only filled 36 of the 120 available seats. Father Peter said he would, but asked for two years to do so. The Archbishop agreed. He said he spent much time in prayer, reflecting on the passage from Psalm 127, “Unless the Lord builds the house, the builders labor in vain.” A year in, the Archbishop told him he had decided to close the seminary. Father Peter reminded the Archbishop of his two-year commitment, and the Archbishop agreed. Father Peter invited people from throughout the Archdiocese to pray in Adoration for an increase in enrollment. Enrollment began to increase, and within six years, the seminary had 104 students, making it the largest college seminary in the United States. “It was not my doing, but the Lord’s,” Bishop Peter said. “All I did was say yes.” The Bishop asked the younger men at the Men's Conference to consider a vocation to the priesthood. “If we had known beforehand what we were getting into when called, we probably would not have done it, but when you look back on it, all you can say is, ‘Wow, what a delight,’” Bishop Peter said. “I was so glad I was called to be a priest and, even greater than that, I was so glad to be called a Bishop,” he said. Fadness, a deacon at St. Mary’s Parish in Boise, was the Idaho Catholic Register editor from 2017-23. He currently teaches theology part-time at Bishop Kelly High School. Participants enjoy a presentation by keynote speaker Jason Evert. (ICR Photo/Joe Egbert) Father Joshua Waltz offers Benediction. (ICR Photos/Joe Egbert) A relic of the True Cross was available for veneration. (ICR Photos/Joe Egbert) Bishop Peter F. Christensen celebrated morning Mass at the Men's Conference on Feb. 1. (ICR Photo/Joe Egbert)

Feast Day: January 16 By Emily Woodham Staff Writer St. Joseph Vaz was ordained to the priesthood in the Archdiocese of Goa, India in 1676, when he was 25. Portugal had ruled that swath of India since the early 1500s. Goa was a morass of politics and business enterprises that, unfortunately, often embroiled leaders of the Church. Father Joseph wanted nothing to do with power and money. His sole desire was to bring people to Jesus through the sacraments, which put him at odds with local authorities for most of his priesthood.  Joseph Vaz was born on April 21, 1651. His family were among the first to embrace Christianity when it came to India a century before. Joseph was the third of six children whose parents could afford the best education for all of them.  Joseph enjoyed studying and prayer from the time he was a child. As he grew older, his devotion to the Church and academics never left him. He went to the Jesuit university in Goa for his humanities degree and the Dominican university for ecclesiastical studies.  After he was ordained, the archbishop assigned him to his hometown of Sancoale. While there, Father Joseph established a school of Latin for boys who were interested in the priesthood. He also provided spiritual direction. In 1677, he consecrated himself to the Blessed Virgin, making himself a “slave of Mary.” Soon after, he felt called to help the Catholics on the island of Ceylon (now called Sri Lanka). Ceylon was mostly Buddhist, but Catholics were able to live there peacefully for nearly 100 years. However, in 1656, the Dutch East India Company, led by Reformed (Calvinist) Protestants, gained control of the island and began persecuting Catholics. Ultimately, they expelled all Catholic clergy. Despite the absence of priests for more than two decades, Catholics in Ceylon retained the faith through lay catechists. Father Joseph attempted to recruit his fellow Indian priests to go with him to the island, as they would be better able to hide among the people of Ceylon. But all of them feared the missionary efforts would fail and only lead to death. He tried to gain permission to go to Ceylon alone, but permission was denied. Instead, he was appointed vicar general to Kanara, which the Dutch controlled but was less dangerous than Ceylon. Under his guidance, the Catholic community in Kanara flourished. In 1684, he was recalled to Goa, but his wish to go to Ceylon was still denied. A year later, he joined a group of diocesan Indian priests in Goa who wanted to live in community as Religious, and Joseph was appointed superior. He decided to apply to the Constitution of the Oratory of St. Philip Neri in Portugal to make their congregation official. Although they lived according to the rule, their Oratory was not officially recognized until 1706. Joseph went back to Kanara with two Oratory priests. They worked there for nine months, and more priests joined them. When he announced that he was journeying to Ceylon, no other priests would accompany him. Only the Oratory’s servant, Joao, was fearless enough to assist Joseph on his mission to Ceylon. Just after Easter of 1687, dressed as poor laymen, Joseph and Joao boarded a boat for Jaffna, on the north coast of Ceylon. Although usually only a four-day journey, a storm kept them at sea for 20 days. When they arrived, they were starving and sick with dysentery. A kind woman sheltered them in her barn and fed them rice gruel to bring them back to health. Because of their dysentery, they were never bothered by the authorities.  When they recovered, Father Joseph and Joao began begging. Joseph wore a rosary around his neck, letting other Catholics know of his faith and priesthood. Catholics were overjoyed to have the sacraments again and took turns keeping Joseph and Joao in their homes for Mass, Confessions and catechesis.  For two years, Joseph ministered to Catholics undetected. Then, a new, more vehemently anti-Catholic Dutch governor came into power. He used bribery to find Father Joseph. Soldiers raided the suspected ministry site on Christmas, but Joseph and Joao escaped.  Father Joseph found a refuge (of sorts) under a king who ruled Kandy, a kingdom in central Ceylon outside Dutch rule. The king was Buddhist and imprisoned the Indian priest when he heard rumors that Joseph was a spy, but Joseph’s kindness and compassion won the king over.  Two miracles cemented Father Joseph’s safety in Ceylon. When Buddhists were unable to end a drought with their prayers, the king asked Joseph to pray. Father Joseph erected an altar in the city square, celebrated Mass and prayed for rain. Immediately, there was a downpour of rain everywhere except over Joseph and the altar. The second miracle was detected when Joseph tirelessly cared for victims of a smallpox epidemic without ever getting sick. Despite the king’s astonishment at the miracles, he never converted.  More priests joined Joseph at Kandy, and an oratory was established nearby. By 1706, Catholics were able to openly practice their faith in Ceylon, although they still suffered prejudices.   Joseph traveled extensively during the last ten years of his life. He frequently fasted from food and sleep and often became ill. However, because of his life of poverty, fasting and humility, Buddhists and pagans were more willing to listen to him preach, and some converted to Catholicism. Joseph died peacefully on January 16, 1711. Because of political upheaval, Joseph was not beatified until the 20th century and was canonized in 2015. He is the patron saint of Sri Lanka. At the canonization, Pope Francis said that St. Joseph Vaz was an exemplary priest who transcended religious divisions and worked with missionary zeal. Spanish SANTOS San José Vaz  Día de fiesta: 16 de enero Por Emily Woodham Colaboradora San José Vaz fue ordenado sacerdote en la archidiócesis de Goa (India) en 1676, cuando tenía 25 años. Portugal gobernaba esa franja de la India desde principios del siglo XVI. Goa era un marasmo de política y negocios que, por desgracia, a menudo implicaba a dirigentes de la Iglesia. El Padre José no quería saber nada del poder ni del dinero. Su único deseo era llevar a la gente a Jesús a través de los sacramentos, lo que le enfrentó a las autoridades locales durante la mayor parte de su sacerdocio. José Vaz nació el 21 de abril de 1651. Su familia estuvo entre las primeras en abrazar el cristianismo cuando llegó a la India un siglo antes. José era el tercero de seis hijos, cuyos padres podían permitirse la mejor educación para todos ellos. A José le gustaba estudiar y rezar desde que era niño. A medida que crecía, su devoción por la Iglesia y los estudios nunca le abandonó. Estudió humanidades en la universidad Jesuita de Goa y estudios eclesiásticos en la universidad Dominicana. Una vez ordenado sacerdote, el arzobispo le destinó a su pueblo natal, Sancoale. Allí fundó una escuela de latín para muchachos interesados en el sacerdocio. También se ocupaba de la dirección espiritual. En 1677, se consagró a la Santísima Virgen, Haciéndose «esclavo de María». Poco después, se sintió llamado a ayudar a los católicos de la isla de Ceylon (ahora llamada Sri Lanka). Ceylon era mayoritariamente budista, pero los católicos pudieron vivir allí en paz durante casi 100 años. Sin embargo, en 1656, la Compañía Holandesa de las Indias Orientales, dirigida por protestantes reformados (calvinistas), se hizo con el control de la isla y comenzó a perseguir a los católicos. Finalmente, expulsaron a todo el clero católico. A pesar de la ausencia de sacerdotes durante más de dos décadas, los católicos de Ceylon conservaron la fe a través de catequistas laicos. El Padre José intentó reclutar a sus compañeros sacerdotes indios para que le acompañaran, ya que podrían esconderse mejor entre la gente de Ceylon. Pero todos temían que los esfuerzos misioneros fracasaran y sólo condujeran a la muerte. Intentó obtener permiso para ir solo a Ceylon, pero se lo denegaron. En su lugar, fue nombrado vicario general de Kanara, controlada por los holandeses, pero menos peligrosa que Ceylon. Bajo su dirección, la comunidad católica de Kanara floreció. En 1684, fue llamado a Goa, pero su deseo de ir a Ceylon siguió siendo denegado. Un año más tarde, se unió a un grupo de sacerdotes indios diocesanos de Goa que querían vivir en comunidad como religiosos, y José fue nombrado superior. Decidió solicitar la constitución del Oratorio de San Felipe Neri en Portugal para oficializar su congregación. Aunque vivían según la regla, su Oratorio no fue reconocido oficialmente hasta 1706. José volvió a Kanara con dos sacerdotes del Oratorio. Trabajaron allí durante nueve meses, y se les unieron más sacerdotes. Cuando anunció que viajaba a Ceylon, ningún otro sacerdote quiso acompañarle. Sólo el sirviente del Oratorio, Joao, se atrevió a ayudar a José en su misión a Ceylon. Justo después de la Pascua de 1687, vestidos de pobres laicos, José y Joao embarcaron rumbo a Jaffna, en la costa norte de Ceylon. Aunque normalmente el viaje dura sólo cuatro días, una tormenta los mantuvo en el mar durante 20 días. Cuando llegaron, estaban enfermos de disentería y muertos de hambre. Una amable mujer les dio cobijo en su granero y les alimentó con gachas de arroz para que recuperaran la salud. A causa de la disentería, las autoridades nunca les molestaron. Cuando se recuperaron, el Padre José y Joao empezaron a mendigar. José llevaba un rosario colgado del cuello, para que los demás católicos supieran de su fe y su sacerdocio. Los católicos estaban encantados de volver a recibir los sacramentos y se turnaban para recibir a José y a Joao en sus casas para la misa, las confesiones y la catequesis. Durante dos años, José atendió a los católicos sin ser detectado. Entonces llegó al poder un nuevo gobernador holandés, más vehementemente anticatólico. Recurrió al soborno para encontrar al Padre José. Los soldados asaltaron el lugar donde se sospechaba que ejercía su ministerio en Navidad, pero José y Joao escaparon. El Padre José encontró una especie de refugio en un rey que gobernaba Kandy, un reino en el centro de Ceylon fuera del dominio holandés. El rey era budista y encarceló al sacerdote indio cuando oyó rumores de que José era un espía, pero la bondad y compasión de José se ganaron al rey. Dos milagros cimentaron la seguridad del Padre José en Ceylon. Cuando los budistas no pudieron acabar con una sequía con sus oraciones, el rey pidió a José que rezara. El Padre José erigió un altar en la plaza de la ciudad, celebró misa y rezó para que lloviera. Inmediatamente, cayó un aguacero por todas partes excepto sobre José y el altar. El segundo milagro se detectó cuando José atendió incansablemente a las víctimas de una epidemia de viruela sin enfermar nunca. A pesar del asombro del rey ante los milagros, nunca se convirtió. Más sacerdotes se unieron a José en Kandy, y se estableció un oratorio en las cercanías. En 1706, los católicos podían practicar abiertamente su fe en Ceylon, aunque seguían sufriendo prejuicios. José viajó mucho durante los últimos diez años de su vida. Frecuentemente ayunaba de comida y sueño y a menudo enfermaba. Sin embargo, debido a su vida de pobreza, ayuno y humildad, los budistas y paganos estaban más dispuestos a escucharle predicar, y algunos se convirtieron al catolicismo. José murió en paz el 16 de enero de 1711. Debido a la agitación política, José no fue beatificado hasta el siglo XX y fue canonizado en 2015. Es el patrón de Sri Lanka. En la canonización, el Papa Francisco dijo que San José Vaz fue un sacerdote ejemplar que trascendió las divisiones religiosas y trabajó con celo misionero.

Holy Trinity in Nezperce. By Bryan Taylor Chancellor of the Diocese of Boise Have you ever wondered what the difference is between a parish, mission, chapel and station? What distinguishes Our Lady of Tears Chapel in Silver City from Holy Rosary Station in Cambridge from St. Paul’s Mission in Malad? The Diocese of Boise has 51 parishes and 56 missions. Of the missions, 31 are stations and 25 are chapels. These are all holy places of worship, yet there are some distinct differences. In the Diocese of Boise, one can place the differences in a hierarchy as follows: Cathedral –  The cathedral is the bishop’s official church. It is the site of the bishop’s “cathedra,” Latin for “chair,” which symbolizes the bishop’s teaching authority and governance over the diocese per Canon 515 of the Code of Canon Law. The cathedra is what makes it different from all other churches in the diocese. Each diocese has only one cathedral. Parish –  A parish is a stable community of faithful entrusted to a pastor under the authority of a diocesan bishop. It has a defined territory and is led by a pastor, according to Canon 515. Parishes typically have their own church building, sacramental life, and administrative structures. A parish provides regular sacramental and pastoral care. Mission – A Catholic community or outreach established to serve the faithful in areas where the Church’s presence is not yet fully organized into a parish. Missions serve areas with fewer Catholics or insufficient resources to sustain a parish. They are usually under the care of a priest, religious congregation or missionary society. Missions are often focused on evangelization and the growth of the Catholic faith in the area. Chapel – A chapel is a sacred place designated for divine worship, but is not a parish. There are public chapels and private chapels. Public chapels are intended for the use of the faithful for public worship and are typically tied to a parish. Private chapels are intended for a specific group or institution, like a convent, hospital or university. There can be multiple chapels within a single church or parish, open to all faithful, that are not designated as the main sanctuary. Sacramental activities often occur at a chapel, but the administration of the sacraments requires proper authorization. Chapels are governed by Canons 1223-1235. Station – A station is often in remote areas where Mass or other sacraments can be celebrated. They serve as sites for occasional worship. They are typically cared for by clergy from a nearby parish or mission. They are common in missionary territories or rural areas, which characterizes a lot of Idaho, where a full parish structure is not feasible. So, who determines what is what and when? There is a multi-step canonical process in which stations, chapels and missions can be elevated to parishes and vice versa. Several factors can cause a change to the status of a place of worship: declining population and attendance, shortage of clergy, financial instability, structure or facility issues, diocesan reorganization, or lack of sacramental activity. During this process, the faithful, the clergy and the bishop work together to determine what is best for the diocese. Some examples:  St. Agnes in Wieser began as a station in the late 1800s and was served by the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist in Boise. The Catholic community’s growth in Weiser coincided with the increase in mining and farming activities, which brought workers from across the U.S. and the world, many of them Irish Catholics. Following significant growth, the station was elevated to full “parish” status in 1900 by Bishop Alphonse Glorieux, Idaho’s second bishop. Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Nezperce is another example. Holy Trinity is now a station, though many parishioners remember the days when it was a parish with an elementary school (St. Anthony’s). As a station, Holy Trinity is served by Saints Peter and Paul Parish, which also oversees Sacred Heart Chapel in nearby White Bird.

By Eddie Trask For the ICR Christian love enables us to understand the relationship between law and human rights. Pope St. John Paul II’s 1996 annual message for World Migration Day, "The Church & Illegal Immigration," declares, “The Church must not fail to speak up for brotherhood and to accompany it with acts testifying to the primacy of charity.” Within the current humanitarian confusion, where many migrants and refugees have been rendered commodities in a tiring game of partisan extremes, the operative phrase remains the “primacy of charity.” What we can do—here and now—is slow the pendulum of extremes by respecting the law and showing love to the people in front of us: those who find themselves in the middle of a national debate without consistent rules, desperately looking for a good samaritan to guide and care for them. Aware of this confusion and volatility, Catholic Charities of Idaho helps immigrants navigate their legal options while affirming that they are made in the image of God and have equal dignity with every other human being. This same approach helps foreign-born priests stay in Idaho, gives a voice and empowerment to victims of crime, and oftentimes paves a road to legal citizenship for those who desperately want to assimilate and live as unfettered, honest Americans. These services are vital for the state of Idaho and the universal mission of the Catholic Church. The Church and her teachings will always transcend politics and secular ideologies by consulting Scripture, Tradition, and Magisterial teaching, maintaining a robust, 2,000-year-old framework that considers every soul in the world, not just those in a single locale or culture. Does this mean we should permit crime under the guise of compassion? Of course not. Again, we are fundamentally talking about respect for the law and a nation’s right to protect itself while being a source of charity and mercy for our neighbors. Both are essential elements of Catholic dogma and doctrine. It is important to recognize that there are two popular responses to immigration that are both unhelpful. The first response is passivity and delay, where decisions are stalled for long periods, and crises are allowed to endure. When this happens, we lack necessary immigration policies that provide for our safety and the good of an immigrant’s future. The second response is reactivity, where decisions are hurried, and laws are unpredictably created and enforced so that human beings are shuttled around like cattle, stripped of their dignity. In both responses, Satan gains the upper hand. Using man’s pride and impulsivity, he covertly dehumanizes the most vulnerable. So, what can we do to combat the enemy’s playbook? Three things. First, ensure we are not labeling an entire people as violent criminals. Second, data from multiple sources should be inspected while contributing to civil discourse that inspires communion rather than divisive conflict. Finally, pray for an end to the crisis, for a solution that is lawful and supports our shared humanity, one that values the person and the law. By doing these three things, we can help keep the pendulum of extremes from forcefully swinging when political parties alternate. To echo the final point, Archbishop José Gómez of Los Angeles recently said: “…any enforcement actions should be prudent, and should be matched by immediate action in Congress to fix our immigration system, which has been broken for decades now.” Creating a just and humane immigration structure will take time and bipartisan effort. For this to happen, our nation needs to be more united, the width between political aisles must decrease, forgiveness must be extended in every direction, and immigrants must consistently be shown their identities as children of God, not game pieces. Some may think this will require a miracle. Well then, my fellow Catholics, let’s pray for such a miracle during this Jubilee Year. Our pilgrim brothers and sisters are hoping for one. Our Lady of Guadalupe, Mother of Jesus and Mother of all the peoples of the Americas, pray for us! More resources: Catholic Charities USA Justice and Mercy Pope Leo XIII’s Rerum Novarum  (1891) Pope Pius XII’s Exsul Familia  (1952) USCCB’s Strangers No Longer: Together on the Journey of Hope (2003) Pope Benedict XVI’s Deus Caritas Est  (2005) Pope Francis’ Migrants and Refugees: Towards a Better World  (2014) USCCB’s Responding to False Claims About Catholic Organizations Serving Newcomers  (2024) USCCB’s Catholic Elements of Immigration Reform (2025) Catechism of the Catholic Church,  2238-2246

Above, Michelle Koepl and her daughter Kerstin by the votive candle stand at Holy Trinity Church. (Courtesy Photos/Phillip A. Janquart) By Kerstin Koepl for the ICR On July 5, 1896, 13-year-old Fred Baldus was working in one of his family’s fields. His parents, Karl and Elizabeth Baldus, had just taken possession of a 160-acre homestead outside the newly established town of Nezperce City (later renamed simply Nezperce). Like many new homesteaders on the prairie, Fred’s family were Catholic immigrants from Germany, but there was no Catholic Church in Nezperce. That was about to change, beginning with a chance meeting on a warm summer day. Fred was probably not expecting to look up and see a priest making his way beside the field, riding a black pony. The priest noticed that Fred was having a hard time with his farm work, so he stopped to help, introducing himself as Father Aloysius Soer. He was one of the Jesuit priests who served the mission churches of St. Stanislaus in Lewiston and St. Joseph in Slickpoo. He was making the two-day trek to Kamiah to offer Mass at the mission for the Nez Perce tribe. Fred invited him to his family’s home, and after gathering a few of the Catholic neighbors, Father Soer offered the first Mass in Nezperce. There were twelve Catholic families in Nezperce at the time, and Father Soer returned eight times in the following year to say Mass for them in the home of the Kemper family with the permission of Bishop Glorieux of Boise. Father Soer suggested building a permanent church as more Catholics came to the area. In 1898, the community purchased four lots at the north end of the town for $80 and built a small wooden church that measured 30 by 60 feet. The construction cost was $400, with parishioners supplying all the labor. Despite its tiny size, the church had both a bell tower and a choir loft. It was named Holy Trinity, and Father Soer presided at the first Mass in 1899. Father Soer and several other Jesuits from the Slickpoo and Lewiston missions came to offer Mass once or twice a month, often making the long journey in inclement weather, in both the summer heat and the winter cold. The other early missionaries of this period were Father J.G. Nicholson and biological brothers Father John Post and Father Hubert Post. The parishioners of Holy Trinity were deeply affected by the devotion of these priests and thought highly of them. The Jesuits called Father Soer “The Saint of the Rockies.” In 1903, Father Van der Velden was assigned as a permanent pastor for Holy Trinity. Not least of those affected by the example of these priests was young Fred Baldus. Father Soer had taught him to serve at Mass, and Fred would also accompany him to Kamiah and nearby Russell to serve. Eventually, Fred left the family farm in Nezperce and became a Jesuit priest. The little church at the north end of town was only used for a few years. A bigger church was built on the hill on the western edge of town. Once again, much of the work was done by the parishioners. This new church—which kept the name Holy Trinity—was consecrated in 1904. The hill where it was built was the highest point in town, and the new church made an impressive landmark. The original church building was demolished, and the lots where it had stood became part of the campus for the public school. The church stood atop the hill for about 80 years but was not to stand alone for long. In 1900 or 1902, the newly formed Holy Trinity Parish parishioners recognized a need for catechism lessons for their children so that they could receive their First Holy Communion. They pooled together $35 to pay John B. Lauby to teach the children for a month. Mr. Lauby quickly saw that a month would not be sufficient for the task at hand, partly because many of the children needed to be taught to read in addition to their catechism. Within a few years, this led to the formation of a Catholic school built next door to the new church. In the fall of 1907, the first classes began in the new St. Anthony’s School. The 1902 church and 1907 school were eventually demolished. In 1980, the building across the street, which had been part of the school grounds, was converted into a church, becoming the third and current Holy Trinity Catholic Church, still overlooking the little town of Nezperce.

La comunidad católica participa con el Obispo Peter Christensen, y los sacerdotes de la Catedral Saint John the Evangelist durante la apertura del Año Jubilar. (ICR Photo/Vero Gutiérrez) Por Vero Gutiérrez Asistente Editora Como Iglesia celebramos un año especial de gracia dedicado al perdón y la reconciliación, conocido como Año Jubilar. Este año, 2025, el Papa Francisco lo ha llamado «Peregrinos de la esperanza» En nuestra Diócesis de Boise, el Obispo Peter Christensen celebró la Misa especial de apertura del Jubileo el 29 de diciembre de 2024 en Saint Johns the Evangelist, cuatro días después de que el Papa inaugurara formalmente el Jubileo desde la Basílica de San Pedro en Roma con la apertura de la Puerta Santa. De manera especial, el Papa Francisco pidió que estas Puertas Santas sólo se designaran en Roma, y aunque nuestra diócesis no cuenta con una Puerta Santa, los obispos de todas las diócesis han designado un lugar donde se venerará una cruz especial con la reliquia de la Verdadera Cruz en el centro, para que los peregrinos puedan acudir a este lugar y obtener las indulgencias plenarias cuando no puedan visitar Roma. En la diócesis de Boise, la catedral de Saint Johns fue elegida para celebrar la Misa de apertura del Jubileo, y en ella, el Obispo Peter Christensen dijo: “Seamos peregrinos de esperanza en este nuevo año, sabiendo que nuestro Señor está con nosotros y que nos pide a cada uno de nosotros que seamos testigos de esperanza para los demás”. A lo largo de 2025 y hasta el 6 de enero de 2026, fecha en que el Papa Francisco clausurará el Año Jubilar, las personas podrán recibir gracias especiales visitando la Catedral. Es importante mencionar que la celebración del Jubileo proviene de las costumbres de los israelitas, ya que Dios ordenó a Moisés realizar esta práctica, según consta en el Antiguo Testamento de acuerdo al Libro del Levítico capítulo 25. Posteriormente, el Papa Bonifacio VIII comenzó a celebrarlo en la Iglesia Católica cada 25 años a partir del año 1300. La confesión es el punto de partida para obtener indulgencias plenarias en este Jubileo 2025.  Según la bula «Spes Non Cunfundit» (La esperanza no defrauda) publicada por el Papa Francisco, se deben cumplir ciertas condiciones para recibir una de las indulgencias plenarias. En primer lugar, la persona debe hacer la confesión sacramental, y en este punto en particular, el Papa Francisco ha convocado a todos los sacerdotes a ser accesibles ofreciendo a sus fieles oportunidades para confesarse. Aunque no se recomienda que se confiesen mientras se está celebrando la Misa, en esta ocasión, se ha concedido un permiso especial para hacerlo, facilitando a los fieles el acercamiento a la reconciliación.  Una vez escuchada la confesión, los fieles deben acercarse a recibir la Sagrada Comunión y rezar por las intenciones del Santo Padre, rezando un Padrenuestro y un Avemaría. Otras opciones para obtener la Indulgencia Plenaria además de peregrinar hacia la Catedral, y participar en la celebración de la Misa. También pueden participar de la Celebración de la Palabra de Dios, la Liturgia de las Horas (Oficio de Lecturas, Laudes, Vísperas), el Vía Crucis, el Santo Rosario, el Himno Mariano del Akathistos y la celebración de la Penitencia. La visita al Santuario jubilar, puede ser individual o en grupo. Otra posibilidad es participando de misiones populares, retiros u otros encuentros de formación sobre los textos del Concilio Vaticano II y el Catecismo. También, haciendo obras de misericordia corporales y espirituales, como visitar a personas necesitadas (enfermos, encarcelados, ancianos, etc.). Para los viernes, se proponen iniciativas penitenciales especiales, como abstenerse de distracciones banales (reales o virtuales, como las redes sociales). Se recomienda ayunar, practicar la abstinencia, dar dinero a los pobres, apoyar obras de carácter religioso o social (especialmente en favor de la defensa de la vida en todas sus etapas y de la prote-  cción de los menores abandonados, de los jóvenes en dificultad, de los ancianos necesitados o solos, de los emigrantes), y dedicar tiempo al voluntariado. La Indulgencia Plenaria puede obtenerse diariamente, y en el caso de los fieles que no pueden asistir a las iglesias designadas, como los enfermos, los ancianos y los presos, pueden obtener la Indulgencia uniéndose espiritualmente y ofreciendo sus sufrimientos.

Please call the Governor's Office today to register your support Good morning, everyone. As you may have heard, our School Choice Bill (House Bill 93) passed the senate on Wednesday afternoon. The bill is now on the Governor's desk.  This is what we have been waiting for.  Please take the time to call the Governor's office today. The number is 208-334-2100.  They have a separate automated survey line set up so you won't even have to talk to anyone . The process takes about one minute to complete.  House Bill 93 will provide a $5,000 refundable tax credit per child. It will help those families that want choice in their child's education but can't afford it.  It will benefit our Catholic Schools  and will also assist those in micro schools, learning pods or those in homeschool.  Because House Bill 93 is a tax credit, no money will come out of the public school's budget .  This is a win win for all of Idaho's kids . Thank you so much for your help! God bless you, Christian Welp Director of Special Projects, Diocese of Boise

Pope Francis prays during a general audience on Feb. 5. (Credit/Vatican Media) By Deacon Scott Pearhill ICR Editor On Tuesday, Feb. 18, a Vatican statement reported that Pope Francis has been diagnosed with pneumonia in both lungs. The statement said the Holy Father’s latest test results reveal a "complex" medical condition. The 88-year-old Pontiff had the upper lobe of his right lung removed as a young man and is prone to bouts of bronchitis in the winter, the Associated Press  reported on Friday, Feb. 14. “He is in good spirits and is grateful for the prayers for his recovery," Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni said on Tuesday, Feb. 18. Bruni explained, “The follow-up chest CT scan which the Holy Father underwent this afternoon" demonstrated the "onset of bilateral pneumonia, which required additional drug therapy.” Pope Francis was admitted to Rome’s Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic Hospital on Friday, Feb. 14, to undergo testing and treatment for bronchitis, the Vatican Press Office said. Bronchitis can lead to pneumonia, which can develop in one or both lungs. When both lungs are affected, it is a more serious situation because there is less healthy lung tissue to compensate for the effects of respiratory illness. At the time of reporting, there has been no indication that the Pope is using supplemental oxygen, and the Vatican Press Office has reported that the Holy Father has eaten breakfast every day, is reading the newspapers and has done some work from his hospital room. The Feb. 18 online edition of the National Catholic Reporter  reported that “Despite his ongoing hospitalization, the pope has continued his almost daily calls with the Catholic parish in Gaza that he has spoken with each night since Israel's war against Hamas began in 2023. According to its pastor, Pope Francis called as recently as Feb. 17. ‘He was tired but with a clear voice,’ said Father Gabriel Romanelli. ‘He asked how we were and thanked us with prayers, and gave us his blessing.’” A rainbow appeared over Gemelli Hospital on Tuesday afternoon, Feb. 18, and Francis received get-well drawings and cards from children being treated in the hospital’s oncology ward, the Associated Press reported. Rome's Gemelli Hospital features a 10th-floor suite reserved for treating popes. On Monday, Feb. 17, a Vatican Press Office statement said, “Pope Francis is touched by the numerous messages of affection and closeness that he has been receiving in recent hours; he especially wants to extend his thanks to those who are hospitalized at this time, for the affection and love they have expressed through drawings and messages of good wishes; he prays for them and asks that they pray for him.” Please join Bishop Peter Christensen in praying that Pope Francis returns to full health. Lord Jesus, Good Shepherd, look kindly on Pope Francis, your vicar on earth, and grant him relief from his sufferings.   To this faithful guardian of your Church, send an angel to shield and protect him. To this Priest who comforted and anointed the sick, now bring peace in his own time of trial. To this herald who has bravely proclaimed your Gospel, give the consolation of your word.   Hear the prayers of those who trust in you, O Risen Lord and Savior, who are seated at the right hand of the Father, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God, for ever and ever.   Amen.

Maria and Rudy Ayala with their quadruplets. (Courtesy Photo/Rudy Ayala) By Gene Fadness for the ICR The Idaho Catholic Men’s Conference has drawn the best of nationally known Catholic speakers over its 10-year span. Nonetheless, the men are surprised when spiritual needs are met in more ways than just inspiring speakers. For some, it is Adoration or the opportunity to participate in Mass with the Bishop. For others, it may be Reconciliation or the camaraderie with many like-minded men. For Rudy Ayala of Immaculate Conception Parish in Buhl, it was an encounter with a relic. The relic of the True Cross was moved to the Men’s Conference at Holy Apostles in Meridian at the request of Bishop Peter Christensen. Bishop Peter asked Johnny Horn, Conference co-organizer, to transport the relic from the Cathedral where it has been on display, housed in the special Jubilee Cross near the Cathedral altar. It was a last-minute change for the Men’s Conference, but one that bore fruit in one man’s life and likely many others. The relic so impacted Ayala that he immediately told his family about it when he arrived home late Saturday night. “After I told them about the relic, I asked them if they would like to see it.” They said yes, so on Sunday morning, just hours after getting back from Boise, Ayala, his wife Maria and their four children made the 130-mile journey back to Meridian—only to find that the relic was no longer there. It had been moved back to the Cathedral. Having already attended Mass that morning at Holy Apostles, his kids wanted to go to Costco, but Ayala said he was still “determined to see the relic.” At Costco, they ran into Johnny Horn. When they told Horn that they had driven back to Boise to see the relic, Horn told them they could probably still see it if they left right then to get to the Cathedral in time for the close of the Spanish Mass. They grabbed a Costco hot dog and were out the door. Ayala, his wife and children were able to pray in front of the Jubilee Cross containing the relic. (Asked how old his children are, Ayala responded, “Eight, eight, eight and eight.” Quadruplets, two boys and two girls.) “It’s not every day you can see a tiny piece of the True Cross on which Jesus was crucified,” Ayala said. “You may get to see other relics, but, for me, this was the top of the relics.” After a short time in prayer in front of the Jubilee Cross containing a fragment of the True Cross, the family got into the car and headed back to Buhl in the pouring rain. “I’m so happy my entire family got to see it,” Ayala said.

Deacon Robert Barros-Bailey speaks about retirement and a lifelong passion for faith-filled travel Mary and Deacon Bob Barros-Bailey on São Jorge island in the Azores, Portugal. (Courtesy photo/Deacon Barros-Bailey) By Deacon Scott Pearhill ICR Editor The former director of the Office of the Diaconate for the Diocese of Boise has been on a lifelong journey of faith and service that has taken him all over the world. Military service, work with non-profit organizations and Church ministry are some hallmarks of his faith life. It is not surprising, then, that in retirement, Deacon “Bob,” as he is more commonly known, also leads pilgrimages, even while opening an Airbnb with his wife, Mary, starting to grow coffee, and working towards becoming a certified coffee roaster. Given his love of faith-filled travel, it should also come as no surprise that he and Mary are doing this in Portugal! Deacon Bob was born in Washington, D.C., the son of a career Naval officer. He told the Idaho Catholic Register  ( ICR ) he was “born and raised Catholic” to a “very strong traditional Catholic family.” His father’s Navy assignments meant young Robert attended school in France, Virginia, Italy and Puerto Rico. He followed his father into the military and became a Naval Intelligence officer with four years of active service and 11 years as a reserve officer. He is a Gulf War Veteran. When asked about his Intelligence career, Deacon Bob told the ICR , “That’s all you get!” After his active military service, he worked with non-profits, including the Boy Scouts of America, where he was an executive. While working for a non-profit in Monterey, Calif, he met his future wife, Mary, who also worked for a non-profit. Mary and Bob will be married 35 years in August. Deacon Bob and Mary moved to Idaho, and he became Deputy Clerk for the City of Boise. Eventually, the Catholic community hired him to be the director of the Treasure Valley Young Adult ministry, and later, he became the high school and young adult minister for Holy Apostles Parish in Meridian. Bishop Peter F. Christensen asked Deacon Barros-Bailey to be the director of the Office of Diaconate in 2016, Deacon Bob’s final assignment before retiring in 2022. He said his vocation to the diaconate was inspired by a growing involvement in the Church, and the joy of working as a catechist and volunteer youth minister. This active participation in the Faith made him understand “that the Holy Spirit was calling me to a deeper level of service.” Deacon Bob was ordained to the diaconate for the Diocese of Boise on October 27, 2012, by the late Bishop Michael Driscoll. He was first assigned to Saint John’s Cathedral in Boise, then to Holy Apostles in Meridian and later to Our Lady of the Snows in Sun Valley. He described his role as director of the Office of the Diaconate as “Part coach, occasional enforcer, and formation teacher.” He added, “My favorite part was watching men grow into their vocation and the strong role the Holy Spirit plays in that process. My least favorite part was being the enforcer for guys who should know better.” The ICR  jokingly asked him which deacon was most annoying, not expecting a response. Deacon Bob replied, “Most annoying . . . me!” In retirement, he and Mary live on a little island in the Azores (Portugal) called São Jorge (Saint George), where Mary’s family has had a house for generations. “Life on an island in the middle of the Atlantic is both wonderful and challenging. The island is lush and dramatic with some towns, very familial communities, and a strong Catholic culture,” Deacon Bob said. “We have two houses; the first is Mary’s family home, which has been in the family for over 200 years. We have modernized it and use it as an Airbnb. Our residence is a small one-bedroom cottage 80 feet above the ocean,” said Deacon Barros-Bailey. Europe's only tea plantation is located on São Jorge island where Deacon Bob and Mary live in their retirement. (Courtesy photo/Deacon Barros-Bailey) He added, “We are starting to grow a variety of fruits and veggies as well as coffee.” It is a work in progress. Deacon Bob and Mary lived in Idaho for 30 years and now find themselves on a Portuguese island. The former director of deacons explained, “Idaho is all about mountains and prairies; São Jorge is all about the ocean.” But he was quick to note there are similarities, too. “The culture of self-reliance with a desire for community involvement” that we found in Idaho “carried over to our community here in São Jorge.” He spoke about the sheer tranquility present on the island. “My decision to retire on São Jorge is deeply intertwined with my desire for physical tranquility and spiritual enrichment. The island’s isolation and its vibrant yet unhurried community life allow me to step away from the busyness of past responsibilities and embrace a slower, more reflective pace. This environment is conducive to personal peace and fostering a deeper connection with my faith.” He noted that the Catholic culture on the island is very strong, with many public festivals for the Saints and liturgical seasons. In addition to getting their Airbnb up and running and becoming a certified coffee grower and roaster, Deacon Bob also helps at their local parish by doing some administrative work. He is “trying his best to learn Portuguese as quickly as possible.” And, as you would expect, he and Mary also travel a lot. “We spent a good chunk of January in Sri Lanka and the Maldives. I love the access to Europe.” Having lived in Portugal for a few years, what could be more natural for this pilgrim at heart than to share his joy, enthusiasm and tranquility with his Idaho community and the world? Deacon Bob is offering a pilgrimage retreat in Fatima (See page 15). He intentionally combines pilgrimage with opportunities to rest and reflect. Deacon Bob explained that too many visits to holy sites are hurried and exhausting. “I have developed a pilgrimage and retreat format that I will begin hosting in the fall of 2025. This program is designed to offer participants an immersive experience that combines travel to spiritually significant sites with reflective retreat sessions.” A pilgrimage retreat to Fatima will be his first, but Deacon Barros-Bailey intends to offer future pilgrimages to other holy sites. The “pilgrimage retreat” format is simple: morning and early afternoon visits to significant shrines and holy sites, followed by late afternoon and early evening retreat sessions reflecting on the day’s experiences. These retreats are crafted to allow participants to enjoy the holiness of sacred locations and engage in spiritual exercises that reflect on their personal faith journeys. “Through these pilgrimage retreats, I aim to create spaces where individuals can explore their spirituality more deeply while experiencing the profound impact of being present at these revered sites. It is a continuation of my life’s work, now enriched by the tranquility and inspiration drawn from my new home on São Jorge Island.” If you would like to join Deacon Barros-Bailey on a pilgrimage retreat to Fatima this Fall, please contact him at rbarrosbailey@gmail.com or call 208.371.8289. Deacon Bob also invites our Idaho parishes to work with their priests and deacons to form groups that travel together. “I will be more than happy to assist you in planning in any way I can. I am excited by the opportunity to facilitate these experiences in such spiritual locations as Fatima and Rome.” Pilgrimage Retreat Overview Fatima, Santarém, Lisbon “A pilgrimage retreat is a ritual journey with a hallowed purpose. Every step along the way has meaning.” –Macrina Wiederkehr, Behold Your Life The Sanctuary of Fatima, Portugal (By Renato Alves da Costa, CC BY 2.0, commons.wikimedia.org )   All breakfasts, dinners, and overnights are in Fátima Lunch is on your own Friday, Day 1: Begin Your Pilgrimage As you travel to Portugal, prepare your heart and mind for the profound experiences that await. Let the anticipation of this sacred journey fill you with hope and openness. Saturday, Day 2: Arrival in Fatima - A Spiritual Awakening After settling into your hotel, gather for a soul-nourishing dinner and an inspiring retreat introduction. As night falls, experience the awe-inspiring Fátima Shrine, where countless pilgrims have found solace and renewal. Sunday, Day 3: Fatima (Mary’s Apparitions and Message) Morning–After breakfast, we begin with Mass in the Chapel of the Apparitions. Visit the Basilica where Francisco and Jacinta are buried and follow the young visionaries’ footsteps. Let the natural wonders of the Mira de Aire Caves remind you of God’s magnificent creation. Afternoon/Evening–Retreat Session 1: “The Fire and the Rose: The Immaculate Heart of Mary.” Monday, Day 4: Fatima (Healing and Forgiveness) Morning–After breakfast, visit the Shrine of Our Lady of Fátima for confession, Mass, and the rosary and then tour its museum. As you walk the Via Sacra, let each station deepen your connection to Christ’s sacrifice, arriving at the Hungarian Calvary on the Valinhos hill overlooking Fátima. Afternoon/Evening–Retreat Session 2: “From Sorrow to Joy.” After dinner, join pilgrims from all over the world in an evening candlelight procession to pray the Rosary for the sick and drink from the miraculous fountain. Tuesday, Day 5: Santarém (The Eucharist) Morning–After breakfast, venture to historic Santarém – one of the oldest cities in the world where faith has flourished for centuries. Walk through its narrow streets to the Sanctuary of the Eucharist Miracle, home to the oldest recorded miracle of the Eucharist that has been on continuous display since 1247. Afternoon/Evening–Retreat Session 3: “Food for the Journey.” Wednesday, Day 6: Lisbon (Pilgrimage and Community) Morning–After breakfast, travel to Lisbon Cathedral and the Church of Saint Anthony of Lisbon. We will visit the Belém Tower, Jerome’s Monastery and the Monumento of Discoveries, which remind us of the far-reaching impact of faith. Enjoy lunch at the Time Out Market. Afternoon/Evening–Retreat Session 4: “River of Wisdom, The Rosary.” Thursday, Day 7: Lisbon (Peace and Reconciliation) Morning–On the way to Lisbon, visit the majestic Christ the King Shrine and Monument, a symbol of divine love overlooking the city. Then, visit Estrela Park, one of the nicest parks in Lisbon. Discover the city’s past at the Lisboa Story Centre and view masterpieces at the National Museum of Ancient Art. A visit to Portugal would be incomplete without visiting the National Tile Museum and taking Tram 28 to St. George’s Castle. Afternoon/Evening–Retreat Session 5: “Fado” dinner. Friday, Day 8: Fátima Departure - Carrying the Light Forward As you prepare to leave Fátima, reflect on the profound experiences and insights gained. Carry the spirit of this pilgrimage in your heart as you return home.   If you would like to join Deacon Bob Barros-Bailey on the pilgrimage retreat to Fátima this Fall, please contact him at rbarrosbailey@gmail.com or call (208) 371-8289.

The power of the 2025 Idaho Catholic Appeal What does it take to become a saint? By Margaret Hampton for the ICR If you’re imagining halos and thinking, “That’s out of my league,” don’t worry—becoming a saint isn’t about being perfect. Saints struggled, stumbled and faced challenges, just like us. What made them extraordinary was their deep love for God and others, which inspired them to pray boldly and act generously. This year’s Idaho Catholic Appeal, themed “Called to be Saints,” reminds us that holiness isn’t an impossible goal—it’s a call for all of us. It’s about loving intensely, praying fervently and giving generously as we work together to build the Kingdom of God in the Diocese of Boise. With a goal of $3.6 million, the 2025 Idaho Catholic Appeal is ambitious but achievable when we unite in faith and generosity. The Appeal supports more than 20 life-giving diocesan ministries and programs. In a recent video (scan QR code below), Bishop Peter F. Christensen explained that the Appeal will: Strengthen families, Form missionary disciples, Support clergy and seminarians, Provide hope and healing for those in need Last year, the Appeal returned over $900,000 to 69 parishes, enabling them to reinvest in their local ministries and projects. This highlights how the Appeal strengthens both the diocesan Church and local communities, allowing us to collectively build a stronger, more vibrant Catholic presence throughout Idaho. Bishop Peter extends a heartfelt invitation to every parishioner to participate in this sacred mission. He reminds us that it’s not the amount we give, but the love behind our gift that truly matters. Whether your contribution is big or small, it’s a tangible way to share Christ’s love and be part of something extraordinary. The Bishop also encourages us to embrace the power of prayer, especially through the Rosary, which has brought grace and strength to countless saints. He invites us to pray the Rosary together for a renewal of the Catholic faith and the success of this year’s Appeal. Participating in the Appeal is easier than ever, with direct debit, credit card, or online giving options. We’ve kept it simple so you can focus on the important part: being a saint in the making. As we take up this challenge together, remember that we’re all called to be saints. By loving deeply, praying with purpose, and giving generously, we can make a lasting impact on our diocese, our parishes, and the lives of those in need. Let’s answer the call, reach the $3.6 million goal and build the Kingdom of God here in Idaho—one prayer, one act of love, and one gift at a time. For more information or to donate, please visit catholicIdaho.org/ICA or contact the Diocese of Boise at (208) 342-1311. Your faithfulness and generosity are deeply appreciated, and your participation in this sacred mission will help bring the love of Christ to countless people.