Food Bank volunteers (left to right) Nancy Ruth Peterson, Susan Roberts, Jerri Parce, Pam Wimer, and Karen Herrenbruck help keep the aid agency running. (Courtesy Photos/Lisa Ormond) By Lisa Ormond for the ICR The Moscow Food Bank, located on the grounds of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Moscow, has served the greater Latah County community for 43 years. Last year, the food bank provided food to over 21,000 people, a 27% increase over 2022. In 2024, the trend looks likely to continue as the Moscow agency has already served more than 13,000 Latah County residents. Fr. Benjamin Onyemachi, SMMM, Pastor of St. Mary’s Church, highlighted the spiritual importance of the Moscow Food Bank. “I would like us to call to mind that charity is the hallmark of the Church’s mission. Jesus left us an example in Himself, as He was always addressing the basic and most pressing need of the people in His time. He fed the hungry, healed the sick, and spoke for the voiceless.” Humble Beginnings The St. Mary’s Catholic Women’s League (CWL) founded the food bank, housed in a small storage closet in the parish center. Initially, the agency was named after the Parish: St. Mary’s Food Bank. Later, it was changed to represent the greater Moscow area and to reduce confusion because there was another church in town named St. Mary’s. “We are grateful to the Catholic Women’s League through whose initiative the food bank was established,” Onyemachi said. “We are most grateful to all the donors to the food bank, living and dead. May God bless you all.” Quickly, the CWL outgrew its humble closet space and needed to expand to serve the growing numbers of people coming to the church for food. The Moscow Food Bank has moved three times during the last four decades and has operated from its multi-purpose building next to St. Mary’s Church since 2021, when Bishop Peter Christensen blessed the building. Parishioners of St. Mary’s provided most of the funds needed to acquire the space. Over the years, a longstanding partnership between St. Mary’s parish, private citizens, area churches, businesses, service organizations, schools and grocery stores has maintained an unwavering commitment to meeting the basic needs of their neighbors—to ensure that everyone in need has food to eat. Linda Nickels has overseen the daily management of the Moscow Food Bank for over 30 years. Linda Nickels Linda Nickels has served as the food bank director since 1993. “Really, the success of a food bank is relationships,” Nickels emphasized. “From your donors to your volunteers to your customers—all of them have to trust you and believe in your credibility.” For Nickels, what mattered most was that her customers received nourishment and acceptance at the food bank. “When people come to the food bank, they don’t know what to expect. It is a hard thing, and often there are tears,” Nickels said. “We give them a comfort area, a place to feel welcomed. We treat every person with dignity. I like that they are not judged, and they can come here just like going to the local grocery store.” Moscow Food Bank Volunteer Connie Esser calls Nickels a “wonder woman” and says people have “no idea what the back story” is to the food bank—just how much Nickels has given to this ministry as a volunteer over thirty years. She’d start her day at 5:30 a.m. in the morning and end at about 7 p.m. in the evening, five days a week, receiving no pay, but rewards of a different kind.” “Linda did all the food shopping and picking up food from the local grocery stores five times a week, including lifting 50-pound boxes on her own,” Esser said. “She also did the bookkeeping and accounting, wrote thank you notes, greeted customers, and the list goes on. Many times, I’ve seen her deliver food to people at their homes even—she is just remarkable.” Esser said Nickels was why she started helping at the food bank six years ago. “I got involved because I met her and she was amazing, and I wanted to help her.” A Generous Community Keeps Giving Nickels believes the Moscow Food Bank is truly blessed because there are more and more mouths to feed, but the food keeps coming in. “Thank God,” said Nickels. “I’ve never begged for money, and we’ve always had enough.” Commenting on the necessity of the community, Nickels said, “You must have something behind you to make a food bank work. We have always had the church’s support and sponsorship. A steady stream of money and food donations, along with a dependable flow of volunteers and general helpers, keep it open and serving those in need.” “We hear all the time from our customers that the combination of higher rent, increased food costs, and rising gas prices are reasons why they need the food bank more than ever,” said Nickels. “Generally, cost of living goes up, but wages do not.” Nickels says that since COVID, the number of people coming to their current 700-square-foot location has “gone through the roof.” She shared that plans are in the works to redesign the house next door to add freezer and storage space, among other improvements. Again, St. Mary’s Church is spearheading this expansion effort to help meet the ever-growing community’s need for food. The Customer and How It Works Nickels said it’s a myth that those who come to food banks are generally retirees and students. The Moscow Food Bank demographic data shows that 51% are Latah County residents between the ages of 18 and 59, followed by 36% in the age group between newborn and 18. “Most are working parents in service industry jobs,” said Nickels. “When you come, you don’t have to show financial need. We need an address and how many are in the family so we can tailor the food to give them.” When customers arrive, they can choose from a list of perishable and non-perishable food items—some items are given weekly and others once monthly. Gluten-free and vegetarian options are available, as well as meat, eggs, and sandwich meats. The food bank is open for two hours every afternoon, Tuesday through Friday. It closes on Thanksgiving and Christmas. Most of the food is donated by private citizens and local grocery stores or bought with monetary donations. Moscow area grocery stores, including Rosauers, WinCo, Safeway, and Walmart, donate “tons of food” every week, said Nickels. To fill gaps, food is purchased locally by volunteers and online from the Idaho Food Bank in Lewiston. “In 1993, we saw about five people weekly. Last year, we averaged about 422,” said Nickels. “And we’ve never closed our doors, not even during COVID.” Volunteers are critical in operating the food bank during business hours, and there is a total of about 40 who are mostly retirees. “Two of my volunteers have been with me over 20 years,” Nickels explained. “We couldn’t do it without them.” Looking Forward to the Future According to Nickels, she is now focusing her energies on the successful transition of the Moscow Food Bank from her hands to that of the five-member leadership team that will oversee the ministry going forward. “Last fall, I received a nudge from God, and He said, ‘Knock it off, girl. Enough is enough!” She took this message to heart for her health’s sake and began to imagine and shift to a life where the food bank wasn’t her daily focus. Nickels, now 83, admits it’s difficult to let go because she devoted the last third of her life to feeding others. She is confident in the transition that is happening and those who are taking over the ministry. “They are all way younger than I am,” she said with a laugh. The team of five who are taking the reins are longtime friends, volunteers, and supporters of Nickels and the food bank, and are St. Mary’s parish members. They include Pam and Ed Wimer, Marie Kleffner, Connie Esser, and Bill Kerr. Nickels noted this is a good time to make the change. “I’m a good resource person for them right now, and I’m basically in and out as needed.” When asked about her future plans Nickels said, “I will find me a new direction; I’m not worried.” She added, “I told myself you have an angel looking after you—and it takes good care of you. I have faith there is a plan. I just need to be patient to see what the Lord has in mind.” When asked to recall her fondest memory she replied without hesitation, “We never ran out of food.” Volunteers Nancy Ruth Peterson and Jerri Parce fill an order for food. Last year over 21,000 people received food items from the Moscow Food Bank.

Father Pat Dennis https://www.cloverdalefuneralhome.com/printnotice/FrJoseph-Dennis/1o/0c/0q/0d/0b The Reverend Joseph "Patrick" Dennis, age 79, of Boise, passed away peacefully Friday evening, July 12, 2024, at the VA Hospice House with his loving sister Kathe by his side. Many close friends and family members came to see him during his final days. Born into a fun-loving Irish Catholic family on January 10, 1945, in Idaho Falls, to parents John Adams Dennis and Mary G. (Jefferies) Dennis, Pat grew up surrounded with the love of grandparents, uncles, aunts, cousins, and other extended family. He lived a principled and dedicated life of service, always focusing on those who were struggling or just needed a helping hand. Pat's childhood education came from Catholic schools in Idaho Falls and Pocatello, before moving to Boise in 1957. He attended Saint Joseph's School, graduated from Saint Teresa's Academy in 1963, and briefly attended Boise Junior College. Enlisting in the Army in May 1966, Pat faithfully served his country for two years and throughout his life remained true to the freedoms our country provides, often referencing the obligation to help others to earn those freedoms. Following his time in the military he worked in Boise for Idaho First National Bank and volunteered at Hays House. It was during this time that he discerned a calling to continue serving others, now as a Catholic Priest. His education, in preparation for ministry included Carroll College in Helena, Montana, Saint Edward's Seminary in Seattle, Washington, and Berkeley Theological Union, in California for graduate school. Ordained a Roman Catholic Priest on December 28, 1978, he continued the life of a true servant leader. Serving his first assignment as Parochial Vicar at Saint John's Cathedral, Pat seemed to seek those who were the most troubled, struggling with addiction, recovering from tragic life events or poor decisions, and he walked their journey with them. As a living example of Christ's preferential love for the poorest of the poor, he listened, sought resources, never took no for an answer, and even took them into his own home. He was endowed with a special gift for young people, especially those discovering their beliefs or who had compromised them. He once observed that, "Most of us make our most important decisions for our lives from 13 to 23 years of age." So, he entered the breach and went into that decision space to help others. As a teacher, counselor, and Chaplain at Bishop Kelly High School in the 1980s, he was beloved and constantly sought out by students to explain the tenets of their faith in a way a young teenage mind could understand. In 1989, Pat once again felt called to help those most in need and joined the Federal Prison ministry. Sacrificing by leaving his beloved Idaho mountains, he served the convicted in prisons in Florida, Oregon, and Arizona. As a dedicated and loyal family member, and native Idahoan, this was hard for Pat. He always loved his family, his dogs, his mountains, his trucks (especially if it meant four-wheeling in the foothills) and all of God's creation. The spirituality of Native Americans and the wild instinct, appetite for freedom, and cunning of the wolf intrigued him. Although he was fiercely protective of those he loved, he never judged, and had a slightly wicked sense of humor that went along with the Irish twinkle in his eye. Pat returned to the Diocese of Boise in 1998, serving at Saint Luke's and Saint Alphonsus Hospitals, and as Pastor at Saint Mary's Parish. He actively served his flock as a Priest for 43 years and in retirement he continued to serve where he could and as his health allowed. He assisted the Idaho Parole Board and helped those re-entering society after serving their sentence. He was always there for the homeless. He also returned to ministering to Soldiers and often filled in as the weekend Chaplain with the Army Reserves at Gowen Field. He remained staunchly independent until shortly before his death. Pat is survived by his older brother, Dr. John Michael Dennis (Barb) of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; his younger sister Kathleen Ann (Dennis) McCurry (Mick) of Meridian, Idaho; and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews, and grand nieces and nephews who adored him. Pat was preceded in death by his parents John and Mary Dennis, and his older sister Rosemary Therese (Dennis) Wilson and her husband Dr. David Wilson, beloved grandparents J.H and Josephine Jefferies, and Samuel and Sarah Dennis. A Catholic Funeral Mass will be celebrated in honor of Pat's life at 2:00 pm on August 9th, 2024, at Saint John's Cathedral, 805 N.8th St. Boise. Celebration of Life Gathering following the Mass. Internment and Rite of Committal including military honors will be a private family affair at a separate time. Donations or remembrances should be made to Bishop Kelly High School, Saint Joseph's School, Corpus Christi House, St. Vincent DE Paul or the Diocesan Fund for Retired Priests. "Dare to do the good that must be done!"

Brother John Paul recites his final vows before Father Wandrille Sevin (right), superior for the worldwide fraternity of Verbum Spei and Father Dominique Fauré, Prior of Verbum Spei’s Boise monastery (center). By Emily Woodham Assistant Editor On Divine Mercy Sunday (the second Sunday of Easter), Brothers John Paul and Joseph Smith made their Final Vows at a Mass at St. Mark’s Parish in Boise. Father Dominique Fauré, prior of the community in Boise, and Father Wandrille Sevin, superior for the worldwide Verbum Spei community, concelebrated the Mass with Father Adrian Leszko, parochial vicar at St. Mark’s. “It is a great joy that today, on this Sunday of Easter, Divine Mercy Sunday, they profess their vows,” said Father Sevin in his homily at the Mass. “But what is mercy?” Mercy is not a poorer kind of love, adapted because of our sins and frailties, he explained. “Mercy in God is, rather, an overflowing, excessive love. It is the Father’s superabundant love for us. As St. Catherine of Siena says, ‘It is an impetuous torrent.’” Father Sevin also quoted St. Thomas Aquinas’ definition of mercy: “It is the omnipotence of God at the service of His love.” “Mercy is an ultimate, perfect love that cannot go any further,” Father Sevin continued. “We must always relate the word ‘mercy’ with the expression of the greatest love.” Another essential aspect of God’s mercy is that it is very personal. “It is when God surrounds me with His mercy that I discover that I am unique in the eyes of God. Therefore, we can ask ourselves: Which person has lived from the mercy of God the Father in the most personal way? What is the creature that has lived the most from this grace? It is the Virgin Mary in the mystery of Immaculate Conception.” From the moment of her conception within her mother’s womb, the Virgin Mary was protected from sin by the greatest love and most beautiful mercy. “The Virgin Mary has never committed a sin, yet more than anyone, she has loved us with the mercy of God the Father for her. She has always been clothed with His mercy, with this limitless love. Without this mercy from God, she would be nothing.” Father Sevin explained that Religious life is the life of the Virgin Mary in the Church. Choosing Religious life means being with Mary at the foot of the Cross. “When Religious life loses its fervor, it loses its love for Christ crucified and becomes lukewarm; it becomes a disaster.” Father Sevin continued that a Benedictine monk once told him that hell is not full of sinners; hell is full of Religious people who became accustomed to their Religious life and became lukewarm. “In Religious life, we are the poorest, the weakest. God, knowing our fragility, chooses us to follow Him, wherever He goes.” But obedience to this call is only possible with the help of the Virgin Mary and God’s mercy. “This Sunday of mercy is the best day of the year to pronounce your vows until death, because never like today have you needed His mercy so much,” he said. “You are committing yourselves to something impossible; you really are crazy. But as Jesus says in the Gospel, ‘Blessed are those who believe without having seen.’” He said their vows are acts of faith, hope and pure love. “Because of your courage, because you give yourselves unconditionally to God, you are surrounded by God’s mercy.” If you enjoyed this story and would like to read more like it, please consider buying a subscription to the Idaho Catholic Register. Your $20 yearly subscription also supports the work of the Diocese of Boise Communications Department, which includes not only the newspaper, but this website, social media posts and videos. You can subscribe here ,  or through your parish, or send a check to 1501 S. Federal Way, Boise, ID, 83705: or call 208-350-7554 to leave a credit card payment. Thank you, and God bless you.

Nearly 500 attend Chrism Mass at Boise Cathedral Click on the photo to see the photo gallery taken at the Chrism Mass by Joe Egbert for the ICR. By Emily Woodham Assistant Editor BOISE — “People are searching for freedom,” said Bishop Peter Christensen in his homily at the annual Diocesan Chrism Mass on March 14 at the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist in Boise. During Lent, Bishop Peter and a team of priests and prayer partners visited 12 parishes in six deaneries to celebrate the Rite of Election and healing Masses. Over 3,500 attended the healing Masses, and about 1,500 are entering the Church in Idaho this Easter Vigil. Nearly half of the 500 who participated in the Chrism Mass also attended a healing Mass. “At the healing Masses, so many people wanted freedom from their anxieties and fears, as well as physical ailments, that can so often keep people imprisoned emotionally and spiritually,” he said. Bishop Peter explained that Jesus wants us to take to heart the message of the Gospel reading proclaimed at the Chrism Mass: Luke 4:16-21. Jesus declares He is the fulfillment of a prophecy from Isaiah: “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to bring glad tidings to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim liberty to captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to let the oppressed go free, and to proclaim a year acceptable to the Lord.” (Lk 4:18-19). Bishop Peter said the proclamation of “a year acceptable to the Lord” is as true today as it was then. But just as people rejected Jesus’ message then, they continue to deny it today. After Jesus spoke in the synagogue, people tried to throw Him off a cliff, but He walked away through the crowd. “Why the rejection? Why the closed heart? Why is it the same today? We know that many people in our own day have turned their backs on truth and the freedom that Jesus freely offers to humanity.” “He suffered for us so that we may be free. Why do people cut themselves off from such a great gift? It goes back to original sin.” He explained that self-reliance is the cause of original sin. “For some reason, we want to do things ourselves, blocking out that which helps. The opposite of that is surrender, giving ourselves over to our Creator to understand the true meaning of life as intended.” “There is a purpose to Creation,” he said, and God wants us to be in sync with that purpose. He then referred to Psalm 36:10: “For with You, Lord, is the fountain of life and in your light we see light itself.” Bishop Peter used physics to illustrate how Jesus’ light gives us true freedom. He explained that the human eye can detect visible light, which is only a portion of the electromagnetic spectrum. “It’s very strange: radiation and x-rays (which are also in the electromagnetic spectrum), we can’t see. But our eyes are sensitive to the seven wavelengths of light that appear to us as color.” He explained that the color we see on any given object is a wavelength reflected back to our eyes. All light has the full spectrum of seven colors within it, but the color we see is made of the wavelengths of light not absorbed by the material. For example, an apple reflects the color red but absorbs the other colors in the spectrum. If all colors within the white light spectrum are absorbed by the object and not reflected, the color of that object is seen as black. If all colors reflect off the object, the color is seen as white. Bishop Peter then linked the physics of light to the spiritual life. “All humanity shares in the spectrum of gifts of creation put forth by our heavenly Father. Every blessing we receive is a blessing from God. Everything we enjoy is a blessing created by God,” he said. Those who receive God’s gift of light and share their gifts with others have true freedom, as designed by God. Freely sharing with others what they have received, they are like white light, which appears when all wavelengths are reflected. But the person who takes in all that has been given by God and chooses to keep it to himself, reflecting nothing back to others, appears as darkness. Such a person, preferring self-reliance and self-absorption, ultimately cannot see and lives in confusion. The Lord wants His people to be set free, he said. God offers liberty to anyone who is held captive and enslaved by fear and anxiety and who is thinking falsely that life is limited to this world alone. “We are called through our prayer to reflect God’s love and joy, to witness to the poor in spirit who seek the truth that there is meaning and purpose for their lives.” He explained that God wants each person to use the gift of faith he or she has received for God’s glory and the good of others. Bishop Peter concluded the homily with words engraved on the wall of St. Mother Teresa of Kolkata’s Home for Children: “Give the world the best you have, and it may not be enough. Give the best you’ve got anyway.” About 60 priests from parishes around the Diocese attended the Chrism Mass, during which they renewed their vows to the priesthood. At the Chrism Mass, the bishop blesses the Oil of Catechumens, which is used for pre-baptismal anointing to strengthen the person until the day of their baptism. He likewise blesses the Oil of the Sick, which brings healing and comfort to those who are ill. He also consecrates the Sacred Chrism oil, used in post-baptismal anointing for those being Confirmed and ordained as deacons, priests, or bishops. After the Mass, representatives from each parish deliver the Holy Oils to their home churches, where they are used throughout the year. If you enjoyed this story and would like to read more like it, please consider buying a subscription to the Idaho Catholic Register. Your $20 yearly subscription also supports the work of the Diocese of Boise Communications Department, which includes not only the newspaper, but this website, social media posts and videos. You can subscribe here ,  or through your parish, or send a check to 1501 S. Federal Way, Boise, ID, 83705: or call 208-350-7554 to leave a credit card payment. Thank you, and God bless you.

“Never for a moment think your struggle is pointless” (Rule 6). Pope Francis’ new book shares timeless spiritual wisdom to help readers of all ages overcome attachments to materialism, sloth and a passive life of being entertained. By Emily Woodham Assistant Editor A Good Life: 15 Essential Habits for Living with Hope and Joy by Pope Francis (Worthy Publish, 208 pp., $28.00) is a book that encourages all ages to live with hope and joy by following 15 rules or habits based on Christian virtues and principles. The book begins with the 15 rules for a good life as a prologue. They include “Never for a moment think your struggle is pointless” (Rule 6) and “Always have the courage of truth” (Rule 13). Pope Francis expands upon the rules in the chapters that follow. With a pastoral tone, the pope expresses his concerns for society. He encourages both young and old to leave behind attachments to materialism, sloth and a passive life of being entertained. With his admonishments for individuals to take personal responsibility for their choices, he emphasizes the need for gentleness and charity to take root in communities. Each chapter can stand alone as a means for meditation and prayer, inviting the reader to consider the aspects of their lives that need change, renewal and perseverance. The pope frequently asks readers to reflect on their choices and know where each decision leads. The book touches on social justice issues, but its primary purpose is to guide readers to a full Christian life. Some passages are directed at youth, but Pope Francis notes these timeless truths are for all ages. When addressing problems caused by a passive, selfish life, his serious tone is softened by his desire to console people in their suffering. Pope Francis references the COVID-19 pandemic throughout the book, originally written and published in Italy in 2021. At times, there is a clear intent to uplift people after the heartbreaking loss and setbacks due to the pandemic, but he also uses the pandemic to highlight the need for Christian compassion and courage. The English translation by Oonagh Stransky was released in the United States on Feb. 20. If you enjoyed this story and would like to read more like it, please consider buying a subscription to the Idaho Catholic Register. Your $20 yearly subscription also supports the work of the Diocese of Boise Communications Department, which includes not only the newspaper, but this website, social media posts and videos. You can subscribe here ,  or through your parish, or send a check to 1501 S. Federal Way, Boise, ID, 83705: or call 208-350-7554 to leave a credit card payment. Thank you, and God bless you.

Catholic seniors at MorningStar create vibrant worship community Deacon Jack Pelowitz, retired, distributes Holy Communion to a Catholic resident of MorningStar Senior Living. By Emily Woodham Assistant Editor When Deacon Jack and Sherrie Pelowitz moved into MorningStar Senior Living in Boise, they thought they were done with ministry. But soon after they arrived in September last year, their expectations were upended. “We came to MorningStar because we had heard it had a good Catholic group here,” Sherrie Pelowitz said. Pat Hunt, a lifelong Catholic who moved to MorningStar in 2015, started the “Catholics Being Catholic” group a year after she arrived. The group was based on a small faith community model at Holy Apostles Parish in Meridian. Then, in 2021, Father Raul Covarrubius moved into MorningStar. He offered Mass, Confession and Anointing of the Sick to Catholic residents. “Our group really took off after Father Raul joined us,” Hunt said. “It made such a difference to have Mass here in the facility.” Hunt needed to pass the baton of leadership because of medical concerns, just as Deacon Jack and Sherrie Pelowtiz moved in. “The timing was perfect,” Hunt said. “Pat had it so organized that it was reasonably easy for me to take over,” Sherrie Pelowitz said. Hunt, who had worked in public affairs before retiring, had divided the group’s activities among different leaders, like the division of ministries in a parish. “Catholics Being Catholic” includes a rosary group, an intercessory prayer group, lectors and Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion for Mass, and a group that visits bedbound people. “Bishop Peter was very impressed with how well organized we are,” Sherrie Pelowitz said. Before taking over the administration of “Catholics Being Catholic,” she had not taken any leadership roles. “Although I am a deacon’s wife, I was happy to stay more in the background. It’s been such a new experience for me to lead this, and Pat made it so easy. Everyone knows what to do and is happy to do his or her job.” Since coming to MorningStar, Deacon Jack Pelowitz has begun serving at the altar again, a ministry he had to stop doing about ten years ago because of his arthritis. “I can function again as a deacon,” Pelowitz said. “I feel so blessed by this community. I can be at the altar; I can give homilies again.” Monsignor Andy Schumacher joined MorningStar earlier this year and concelebrates the Mass with Father Covarrubius. “We have grown in number so much,” Sherrie Pelowitz said. “We have about 35 to 40 people who attend each Mass, but at the last Mass, we had about 43. I could barely get through the door, which is a good problem to have!” Because of health issues, Deacon Pelowitz and the priests sit during the celebration of Mass, and Communion ministers take the Eucharist to the assembly members in their seats, rather than have them form a line for Communion. Those who cannot attend Mass receive Eucharist in their rooms. The Diocese of Boise provides what is needed to celebrate the liturgy. Vessels and linens are stored at the center, but the community does not yet have a tabernacle for reserving consecrated hosts. “Maybe one day we’ll build a chapel with a tabernacle here,” Sherrie Pelowitz said. Living in a diverse religious community at MorningStar is something the Pelowitzes and Hunt enjoy. One of Deacon Jack’s favorite things is having conversations about faith and the Catholic Church with non-Catholic residents. In November last year, Deacon Rick and Bea Bonney moved to MorningStar. Deacon Rick died last month, and Bea Bonney has appreciated the outpouring of support from the Catholic group and non-Catholic residents. “The community here is just wonderful,” Bea Bonney said. As Holy Week approaches, “Catholics Being Catholic” looks forward to their first Stations of the Cross service on Good Friday. Because Deacon Pelowitz and Monsignor Schumacher are assisting Father Covarubbius, they will also celebrate the Triduum for the first time. For information about starting a Catholic community in a senior living facility, email Sherrie Pelowitz at seniorsonamission@hotmail.com . Deacon Jack Pelowitz serves at the altar during Mass with Father Raul Covarrubius and Monsignor Andy Schumacher. The retired clergy live and serve at MorningStar Senior Living in Boise. If you enjoyed this story and would like to read more like it, please consider buying a subscription to the Idaho Catholic Register. Your $20 yearly subscription also supports the work of the Diocese of Boise Communications Department, which includes not only the newspaper, but this website, social media posts and videos. You can subscribe here ,  or through your parish, or send a check to 1501 S. Federal Way, Boise, ID, 83705: or call 208-350-7554 to leave a credit card payment. Thank you, and God bless you.

Rob and Sharla Walsh with Bishop Peter Christensen at the 2024 Anniversary Mass celebrating their 54th year of marriage. By Emily Woodham Assistant Editor Rob and Sharla Walsh were married for 28 years when they joined Teams of Our Lady, an association for married couples. “Couples journey together on a prescribed plan to find, know and serve Christ,” Rob Walsh said. “The first and essential objective of Teams of Our Lady, from which everything else should flow, is to lead its members, couples united by the Sacrament of Marriage, to holiness.” Teams of Our Lady is not a program. It is an “Association of the Faithful,” recognized by the Pontifical Council for the Laity and Pope St. John Paul II in 1992 and confirmed in 2002. Father Henri Caffarel founded Teams of Our Lady in the Archdiocese of Paris in 1939 with four couples in his parish. The ministry quickly grew and spread from Europe to other parts of the world, according to teamsofourlady.org . In 1947, he drafted and implemented the Charter. Rob and Sharla Walsh married in 1969. They met when they were 16 and 18. They married and raised their six children in the Church. However, it wasn’t until their oldest daughter, Jill Marie, received First Communion that Sharla became Catholic. In 1983, only five years later, their oldest daughter, Jill Marie, died from leukemia when she was 12. Their faith helped them stay strong as a couple through the heartbreak of their daughter’s death and all the other difficulties of family life. Although they found strength in the Church, they wished they had discovered Teams of Our Lady sooner, Rob said, because its teachings and couples’ support would have bolstered their faith even more. “We were told early on that we got married to help each other get to Heaven,” Rob said. “We have come to know that to be true by many of the events that have happened in our lives. The Teams’ methods have strengthened our relationship with Christ and each other, especially through our increased prayer life.” A crucial part of Teams of Our Lady is forming small groups. Couples support one another and pray for each other. “We met many wonderful couples that have become lifetime friends. Many couples have told us the same thing after joining the Teams. I think it is because the spirituality of the Movement is holiness in and through our Sacrament of Matrimony,” he said. Rob and Sharla, who moved to Idaho from Oregon, began serving in leadership for Teams of Our Lady in 2003 in Portland. “Another thought that seems to be woven in, and through everything we do, is that God is the true Author of love.” They went from serving locally to being a “Provincial Couple,” overseeing groups in the western United States. From 2015 to 2020, they were first “Correspondent Couple” in the United States for the “Association of the Friends of Father Caffarel,” promoting Father Caffarel’s canonization. Since 2020, the Walshes have retired from leadership roles. However, they have mentored and piloted a Teams of Our Lady group at Holy Apostles Parish in Meridian. They hope to promote Teams of Our Lady in other parishes in the Diocese of Boise. “We believe that couples have lost sight of the fact that marriage is holy and Christ should be at the center of the married relationship,” Rob said. “Couples should realize that God wants to be in a covenant with them and that He will bestow graces on them which will sustain them, guide them and remain with them all the years of their married lives. God wants our marriages to succeed. It is not just about the individual or the couple, but for the benefit of the community and world. The fabric of our society is strengthened by good, solid marriages and family values.” “I can tell you that in nearly 55 years of marriage, a lot can go wrong, but even more can be better – a lot more. Our faith and our love grew together through struggles and joys. However, we did consult God, who is the Author of love.” For more information about Teams of Our Lady, contact the leaders for Idaho, Victor and Nicole Sanchez, at 208-949-1740 or Rob and Sharla Walsh at emmettwalsh@me.com . If you enjoyed this story and would like to read more like it, please consider buying a subscription to the Idaho Catholic Register. Your $20 yearly subscription also supports the work of the Diocese of Boise Communications Department, which includes not only the newspaper, but this website, social media posts and videos. You can subscribe here ,  or through your parish, or send a check to 1501 S. Federal Way, Boise, ID, 83705: or call 208-350-7554 to leave a credit card payment. Thank you, and God bless you.

Father Godinez is a new U.S. citizen By Vero Gutiérrez Assistant Editor Father Francisco Godínez, pastor of Corpus Christi in Fruitland, is a new U.S. Citizen. He took the oath of allegiance on Nov 21st at the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service in Boise. After successfully completing his U.S. history test (the final step in his preparation), Fr. Godinez immediately took the oath of citizenship, as recently updated protocols no longer allow for a separate oath-taking event. Father Dennis Day and the Molitor and Wonacott families were present at the ceremony. “Now that I have completed this process of becoming a citizen, I feel at ease. Although I was not born in this country, I feel I am part of this community where I spent half my life. I grew up again in this country, where I had the opportunity to improve myself, grow as a person, meet many people, and serve as a priest during these last 13 years. For this, I give thanks to God,” said Father Godínez. Father Godínez was born in La Piedad, Michoacán, Mexico, and came to the United States 21 years ago as a seminarian when he was 23 years old. He arrived in the United States on September 1, 2002, thanks to the permission of the Archbishop of Morelia, Alberto Suárez Inda, now Cardinal Emeritus, and the acceptance of the Bishop of the Diocese of Boise, Michael Driscoll. He participated in the formation program at Treinen House in the former rectory of the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist. Immediately after he arrived in Boise, Father Godínez began studying English. His companions were Father Camilo García, now pastor of St. Nicholas in Rupert, and Father Eladio Vieyra, now pastor of St. Therese Little Flower in Burley. Thanks to his dedication, Father Godinez was able to pass the TOEFL exam before the end of that year. Part of his experience as a seminarian was living with the Molitor family during the summer of 2003, during which he practiced English and learned more about U.S. and Idaho culture. He completed his studies in Philosophy at Conception Seminary College in Missouri, graduating Summa Cum Laude in 2005. He studied theology at the Mount Angel Seminary in Oregon from 2005 to 2010. In 2009, he was ordained a transitional deacon by Bishop Carlos Suárez Cázares in his hometown of La Piedad Michoacán. On June 10, 2010, he and four others were ordained priests by Bishop Michael Driscoll at the Cathedral of Saint John the Evangelist in Boise. In his first assignment as a priest from 2010 to 2012, he was a parochial vicar at St. Pius X Parish in Coeur d´Alene, where Fr. Roger LaChance was pastor. From 2012 to 2013, he was parish administrator of St. Mary Immaculate in Saint Maries, Idaho, and from 2013 to 2015, he was made parish administrator at St. Nicholas in Rupert. Bishop Peter Christensen appointed him pastor of St. Nicholas in Rupert where Fr. Godinez served from 2015 to 2021. While still in this position at Saint Nicholas, Father Godínez was asked to study Canon Law, and Father Gabriel Morales oversaw the parish in his absence. In 2018, Fr. Godinez completed his studies in Canon Law, having earned a master’s degree from Saint Paul University in Ottawa, Canada. Bishop Christensen appointed him as a Diocesan judge for matrimonial matters and a promoter of justice in individual cases for clergy. In 2021, Father Godinez was appointed pastor of Corpus Christi in Fruitland, in addition to his Tribunal duties. If you enjoyed this story and would like to read more like it, please consider buying a subscription to the Idaho Catholic Register. Your $20 yearly subscription also supports the work of the Diocese of Boise Communications Department, which includes not only the newspaper, but this website, social media posts and videos. You can subscribe here ,  or through your parish, or send a check to 1501 S. Federal Way, Boise, ID, 83705: or call 208-350-7554 to leave a credit card payment. Thank you, and God bless you.

By Emily Woodham Assistant Editor The faithful from across Idaho and neighboring states are encouraged to participate in any portion of the National Eucharistic Pilgrimage (NEP) as it passes through the Diocese of Boise. The pilgrimage has nine stops in the lower portion of Idaho, making participation more accessible for local pilgrims.  “Please be sure to identify when and where your deanery’s NEP event is,” said Tish Thornton, Director of Worship for the Diocese of Boise. “It will be import-ant at each of these stops within a deanery to have enthusiastic representation of the faithful to welcome the Lord and the pilgrims as they make their way through the state. Please plan to attend.” There are nine stops at parishes within Idaho. Each stop will include opportunities for the faithful in their area to meet the national pilgrims, pray with them, adore the Blessed Sacrament, socialize, listen to talks, and witness testimonies. Local pilgrims can also process with the national pilgrims.  Beginning on Pentecost Sunday, May 19, 2024, four teams of young people, together with priest chaplains, sisters, and seminarians, will embark on a pilgrimage, processing across the country with the Blessed Sacrament, each from a different starting point. Each route is named for a regional saint, and the routes converge in Indianapolis in time for the National Eucharistic Congress on July 17.  Idaho is on the “Serra” Route, which begins in California. The Serra route is named after the “Apostle of California,” St. Junipero Serra, a missionary priest who dedicated his life to administering the sacraments to indigenous people and Spanish settlers across the west coast of our continent. He traveled approximately 24,000 miles throughout his ministry, mostly on foot.  On May 27, Bishop Peter Christensen will meet Bishop Liam Cary of the Diocese of Baker on the border between Oregon and Idaho. There, the Blessed Sacrament will be solemnly transferred to our Diocese, and then be carried in procession across the southern portion of the state before crossing the Utah border.  The dates for the Idaho portion of the pilgrimage have been finalized. How-ever, details for each stop, including times are still in the planning stage. The Office of Worship and the Office of Religious Education for the Diocese of Boise will provide more information as it becomes available, and a commemorative edition of the Idaho Catholic Register published in late spring will provide more details about the NEP in Idaho. When the NEP arrives at its evening destination, area parishes will welcome pilgrims and be represented at a “gathering of altars” at a local city park.  The NEP will process from altar to altar and pass the Blessed Sacrament with-in the NEP monstrance to the pastor of each parish in the deanery. The pastor will then bless pilgrims from his parish, who can be laity, ministry leaders, or any group that wants to participate, with the Blessed Sacrament before handing the monstrance back to the NEP.  Following the blessing of parishes, the NEP and local pilgrims will process to a church for Adoration, praise and worship, prayer and to listen to testimonies from the national pilgrims. The faithful will then have time for fellowship and socializing. ​ The following stops have been confirmed: Monday, May 27: Afternoon - Blessed Sacrament in Ontario (transfer of Eucharist from Oregon to Idaho) Evening - Corpus Christi in Fruitland  Tuesday, May 28: Afternoon - Sacred Heart in Emmett Evening - St. John’s Cathedral in Boise Wednesday, May 29: Afternoon - Our Lady of Limerick in Glenns Ferry Evening - St. Jerome in Jerome Thursday, May 30: Afternoon - St. Nicholas in Rupert  Evening - Holy Spirit Community in Pocatello ​Friday, May 31 Afternoon - St. Peter’s in Preston (transfer of Eucharist from Idaho to Utah) If you enjoyed this story and would like to read more like it, please consider buying a subscription to the Idaho Catholic Register. Your $20 yearly subscription also supports the work of the Diocese of Boise Communications Department, which includes not only the newspaper, but this website, social media posts and videos. You can subscribe here ,  or through your parish, or send a check to 1501 S. Federal Way, Boise, ID, 83705: or call 208-350-7554 to leave a credit card payment. Thank you, and God bless you.

Funeral procession with two coffins – one white and one black. The Tlaxiaco, Oaxaca stamps on the reverse of these postcards suggest that this may be the funeral procession for Rafael and Vicente Acevedo, who were executed on Aug. 6, 1926. (“Cristero Rebellion Martyrs photo album and postcard collection.” 2023, November 13. https://sites.nd.edu/rbsc/cristero-rebellion-martyrs-photo-album-and-postcard-collection) By Vero Gutiérrez Staff Writer In 1926, many Catholics in Mexico took up arms against the Mexican army and began what became known as the “Cristero War.” Although most bishops and even Pope Pius XI agreed that violence was not the way to resolve the conflict, the brutal war was to continue for three bloody years. On November 18, 1926, Pope Pius XI issued the encyclical Iniquis afflictisque (“On the Persecution of the Church in Mexico”) to denounce the violent anticlerical persecution. In 1924, Plutarco Elias Calles, known for openly promoting an anticlerical government, was elected president. Two years later, in 1926, Calles used Article 130 of the 1917 Mexican Constitution to justify the promulgation of the “Calles Law.” This interpretation of Article 130 limited the number of priests, required a license and registration with the authorities to practice as a priest, prohibited foreign priests from exercising their ministry and forbade any public manifestation of the faith, such as processions and the celebration of Mass. Shortly thereafter, in an effort to protest the “Calles Law,” an economic boycott was organized through the newly formed National League for the Defense of Religious Liberty, founded in 1925 by several groups, including the Knights of Columbus. The League urged people not to pay taxes, buy products marketed by the government, or buy lottery tickets. In addition, numerous protests were carried out, and all legal means to repeal the “Calles Law” were tried. However, these protests provoked even more radical measures of restriction, including the persecution of Religious, priests and laity. The lower and western states of Guanajuato, Michoacán, Colima, Jalisco, Aguascalientes and part of Zacatecas felt the conflict intensely. The bishops of Mexico decided that public worship should be suspended for the safety of the faithful. However, they gave priests the freedom to continue their ministry at their own risk. Despite the non-violent efforts to restore justice, many priests were shot without trial, often testifying to their faith before their executions and offering forgiveness to their executioners. Twenty-five of these martyred priests were later declared Saints by the Catholic Church. Members of the Mexican Army also shot Blessed Father Miguel Agustin Pro. His cause for canonization is currently in process (see Saints, page 16). There were also lay martyrs who were declared Saints, such as Jose Sanchez del Rio, a 14-year-old boy who had the soles of his feet cut off and was forced to walk to a grave where he was shot. Hostilities intensified in 1927 and continued through 1929, resulting in the deaths of 90,000 Catholics. Those who resisted the army were mostly composed of peasants and veterans of the Mexican Revolution. The resistors became known as the “Cristeros” because their battle cry was “Viva Cristo Rey!” (“Long Live Christ the King!”). The rebellion ended by diplomatic means brokered by the American Ambassador Dwight W. Morrow, with financial relief and logistical assistance provided by the Knights of Columbus. After President Plutarco Elias Calles left the government, and the new president, Emilio Portes Gil was installed, a peace pact was signed on June 21, 1929, finally putting an end to the Cristero persecution. The new government agreed to return Church property if the Catholic Church in Mexico agreed to cease its participation in the nation’s political life. Testimonies of lay people who participated in the Cristero War Geronimo Solis (Great-Grandfather of Francisco Uribe, Parishioner of the Cathedral of Saint John the Evangelist in Boise) Francisco Uribe, a parishioner at the Cathedral of Saint John the Evangelist in Boise, said that his maternal great-grandfather, Gerónimo Solís, who was born in Teocuitatlán, Jalisco, was a member of the group of Guadalupanos. When the Cristero War broke out, he had already moved to the city of Concepción, Buenos Aires, Jalisco, where he was married and the father of nine children. Members of the army arrested Solis while he was working in the fields because he was a member of a religious group. Federal forces put a noose around his neck and began his execution. Providentially, a group of friends realized he had been captured and managed to sever the rope with their shotguns, saving him from certain death. Undaunted, Solis and his family later sheltered a priest who was being hunted by the army. The family hid the priest in a room where firewood was kept. According to Uribe, the Army officer said, “We know you have a priest hidden here.” Without hesitation, Uribe’s great-grandfather is remembered to have replied, “There is no priest here, and you can go in and look.” The Army searched the whole house but could not find the priest. The soldiers even thrust their swords into the woodpile, but the priest was safefly hidden deep within the huge mountain of wood. Later, the priest was moved to the forest and the family brought him food for a week until he was out of danger. They even supplied him with a horse so he could leave town. When the situation in the country was safer, Uribe’s great-grandfather and his family received a visit from the priest, who came to thank them for risking their lives to save him from his persecutors. Inés Villa (Great-Grandmother of Father Camilo García, Pastor of St. Nicholas in Rupert) “When I was a seminarian, I always liked to visit my great-grandmother during my vacations because she was a very good conversationalist, and I liked to listen to her stories, like this one about the times of the Cristero War in Mexico,” said Father Camilo Garcia. Inés Villa was baptized in the Cathedral of Tacámbaro, Michoacán, and lived most of her life in Tecario, a very small town 30 minutes from Tacámbaro. Tecario, a small village surrounded by mountains, was the ideal place to hide from the soldiers who hunted Catholics. The parents of Father Camilo’s grandmother had to be vigilant and hide their daughters in the bushes to protect them from the soldiers who came to loot the houses and abuse the women. During the persecution of the Church, the priests went into hiding, but they continued to visit families to encourage them to pray and they celebrated the sacraments in secret when they could. Father Camillo’s grandmother, Inés Villa, who was a teenager during the Cristero War, survived thanks to the care of her father and mother. She died in 2010 at the age of 104. Father Garcia related that the first rector of the Seminary of Tacámbaro, Father José Ramírez, was one of the priests who died as a martyr during the Cristero War. Like the boy St. José Sanchez del Río, Father Ramírez was martyred by having the soles of his feet cut off and then being dragged by horses to the cemetery where the soldiers shot him. Ramiro Terriquez (The father of Father Enrique Terriquez, retired priest) Ramiro Terriquez was born to a Catholic family. His father, a hard-working man who knew many trades, worked as a farmer as well as a barber. When Ramiro was only 15 years old, soldiers captured him because he was a messenger for the Cristeros. The army was taking him to be hanged when the villagers intervened to free him. They told the soldiers that this boy, Ramiro, was the son of Mr. Terriquez, who, days before, had been working as a barber for the soldiers. They released him in recognition of the service his father had given them. Ramiro Terriquez and Soledad Santana, father and mother of Father Enrique Terriquez. (Courtesy photo/Father Enrique Terriquez). Many years later, when Father Enrique decided to become a priest, he was sent from Mexico to study in a seminary in the United States. Church authorities in the United States had opened the seminary years before, during the Cristero War, to help the Mexican Church by housing its seminarians. This institution, originally for seminarians in exile, was in an old hotel in Montezuma, New Mexico. The 7,000-square-foot facility in the middle of the mountains was called the Pontifical National Seminary of Our Lady of Guadalupe. If you enjoyed this story and would like to read more like it, please consider buying a subscription to the Idaho Catholic Register. Your $20 yearly subscription also supports the work of the Diocese of Boise Communications Department, which includes not only the newspaper, but this website, social media posts and videos. You can subscribe here , or through your parish, or send a check to 1501 S. Federal Way, Boise, ID, 83705: or call 208-350-7554 to leave a credit card payment. Thank you, and God bless you.

Deacon Thomas Mannschreck, director of Prison Outreach, visits a Boise prison. (ICR photo) By Emily Woodham Staff Writer The Diocese of Boise Prison Outreach is once again serving all correctional facilities in the State of Idaho. The COVID pandemic halted the ministry for nearly two years, from 2020 to 2022. “Slowly but surely, we are adding volunteers,” said Deacon Mark Geraty, volunteer coordinator for Prison Outreach. “We are getting volunteers to independent status, which means they’ve had at least 24 hours of volunteer service inside the prison. Before that, they must be accompanied by an experienced volunteer.” Volunteers include laypeople, priests and deacons who minister in about 13 prisons that house more than 8,000 incarcerated men, women and young people. They lead scripture studies, catechetical programs, prayer, Mass and Reconciliation. When priests are not available, Communion services are offered by deacons. The ministry hopes to add Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA) classes soon, Deacon Geraty said. Volunteers serve as far north as Orofino and Cottonwood, south of Boise, west to Nampa and Caldwell and east to Pocatello and St. Anthony. “We also have responsibility for incarcerated men from Idaho being housed in the Arizona Department of Corrections,” Deacon Geraty said. More than 90 percent of persons serving time in prison will be released, according to the Idaho Statistical Analysis Center, said Geraty. About 40 percent of those released are likely to be charged with a new crime within three years. “What is a demonstrable, incontrovertible element in a meaningful reduction of recidivism is a genuine and sincere connection to a community of people with built-in accountability standards,” Geraty explained. To help build those connections, Deacon Geraty is requesting that subscriptions of the Idaho Catholic Register be donated to prison residents. “Getting the Idaho Catholic Register in front of people in prison is an important first step, right along with volunteers behind the walls who bring the light of the gospel right into a place that needs it most.” To help with this effort, Communications Director and Editor of the ICR, Deacon Scott Pearhill, has added a prison donation button to the ICR subscription page on the Diocese website. If writing a check, simply note in the memo portion: “Prison Subscription.” For more information about the Diocesan prison ministry, visit catholicidaho.org/prison-ministry. If you enjoyed this story and would like to read more like it, please consider buying a subscription to the Idaho Catholic Register. Your $20 yearly subscription also supports the work of the Diocese of Boise Communications Department, which includes not only the newspaper, but this website, social media posts and videos. You can subscribe here , or through your parish, or send a check to 1501 S. Federal Way, Boise, ID, 83705: or call 208-350-7554 to leave a credit card payment. Thank you, and God bless you.

Mothers Angélica Gutiérrez, back left, María de Lourdes Sedano, back left, and Oneida Martínez are at the Diocesan Pastoral Center in Boise. (ICR Photo/Vero Gutiérrez) By Veronica Gutiérrez Staff Writer TWIN FALLS - Three religious Sisters of the Congregation of the Sisters Servants of the Immaculate Conception have arrived in Twin Falls from Mexico to serve as missionaries at St. Edward the Confessor Parish for five years. They are Sisters Lourdes Sedano, Angelica Gutiérrez, and Oneida Martínez. The Congregation of the Servants of the Immaculate Conception was founded in Mexico City on May 12, 1945. Its main charism is evangelization through educational and parish ministries. The Congregation is composed of 87 Sisters. Their house of formation is located in Tacámbaro, Michoacán. They run 18 Catholic schools in Mexico, with grades from preschool to high school. The three Sisters came to Twin Falls through the exchange program involving the Diocese of Boise and Catholic Extension, in partnership with the Conrad N. Hilton Foundation. This program allows women religious from Latin American congregations to serve among Latino immigrant populations in the United States. These organizations are responsible for providing resources to support the Sisters as they assist in pastoral ministry at St. Edward the Confessor Parish, helping them learn the language and continue their graduate studies. Mother María de Lourdes Sedano (Madre Lulú) While it is common in the United States to refer to religious who have completed their formation as “Sisters,” in Mexico they are often called “Mothers” (“Madres” in Spanish). Mother Sedano is the local superior and was born in Ario de Rosales, Michoacán, Mexico. She is the third of nine children. She grew up in a very Catholic family, and from childhood, was involved in the sacramental formation of children in her parish. As a high school student in one of the schools of the Sisters Servants of the Immaculate Conception, she felt a definite attraction to religious life. This interest began when she was ten years old, but it was not until she was 15 that she entered the community. “Before I made this decision, I never imagined that I would become a religious, that I would be a teacher in a Catholic school or work in parish ministry, but God’s plans are great,” Mother Sedano said. “I remember being given many warnings about religious life before I entered, and when I was asked, ‘Are you willing to do all this?’ — my answer was always, ‘Yes.’” She entered the formation house in 1989 and spent a month and a half as an aspirant, two years as a postulant, and two years as a novice. She earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in elementary education. She made her first vows in 1993 and has been a teacher for 17 years in various Catholic schools. “I like my mission. I like what I do. I love my vocation. I enjoy it, and I try to do it the best I can,” Mother Sedano said. Prayer at the beginning of the day is a priority in her community life, strengthening her work. In this new community in Twin Falls, the Sisters already have plans to form an essential ministry. Although she is a little anxious about learning a new language, she is sure that she will put all her efforts into learning and being able to offer helpful ministry to the community. “I come here to Twin Falls with great joy to share my life with the community. I am open to listening to the people. I feel happy with this mission and ready to meet their needs and share the Word of God. Mother Sedano, who likes to be called Madre Lulú, enjoys watching educational films, walking and dancing. Mother Angélica Gutiérrez (Madre Angie) Mother Gutiérrez was born in Villa Madero, Michoacán. She comes from a culturally Catholic family, but not a practicing one. She is the oldest of 13 siblings and said she never imagined she would be a religious Sister, as she wanted to remain single. “I thought that was for people who are crazy and ugly,” she said, laughing heartily. She started going to church on her own when she was 16 years old. She was drawn to participate in the youth retreats. She became involved in catechesis for adults and children and began helping older adults who could not read and write to learn these skills. When she turned 20, the restlessness for consecrated life was born. “Within three months, I decided I wanted to be a nun and became interested in learning more about consecrated life. I thought all religious were the same; I didn’t know there were different congregations, and I thought they prayed all the time and never saw their family.” That same year, on February 9, 1997, she entered the formation house of the Servants of the Immaculate Conception. ‘Thank God I didn’t do a lot of research because if I had known they got up at 5 a.m., I certainly wouldn’t have gone with them!” Mother Gutiérrez said, laughing. “I have 21 years of religious life, and I have always been happy in the different communities where I have been. I think the vow of obedience does not take away my freedom because we live a better freedom according to what God wants. Fulfilling my vows has made me happy.” Mother Gutiérrez has a bachelor’s degree and has worked for ten years with young people in parish ministry, and she loves community life. “I don’t like to be alone, and knowing I’m always with someone makes me happy,” she added. “Here in Idaho, I want to do a lot of good for people, to make my life useful to them.” As for her favorite hobbies, she likes to take walks with company, talk, eat ice cream and enjoy her breaks. She prefers to be called Madre Angie. Mother Oneida Martínez (Madre One, pronouned “Oh-nay”) Mother Martínez was 17 when she entered the Congregation of the Servants of the Immaculate Conception. She was born in Nocupetaro, Michoacán and has four brothers and sisters. “I come from a Catholic family, but we were not very religious, so my call to consecrated life was a little strange,” said Mother Martínez. “I was very spoiled being the only daughter at home, and I did not participate in church activities. But one day, I decided to attend a vocational retreat organized by the Servants of the Immaculate Conception in my city. At the retreat, a question was asked that echoed in the ears of Mother Martínez, who was only 17 years old: “What do you want from yourself?” Mother Martínez explained, “When I returned home later that day, I spent the whole evening with that question going round and round in my head. I realized I needed to spend some time with the nuns in order to answer that question. When I told my parents, they didn’t believe me, until they saw me packing my suitcase.” My father was sure that on the third day, I would want to come home, and the truth is, I did; on the third day, I wanted to go back home. I decided to stay with the nuns just a few more days because I still had not finished answering the question. I knew that I would not get the answer if I returned home. I called my parents and told them I would stay for eight more days. Mother Martinez says that her father was right again when, after receiving the call from his daughter, he told his wife, “She is not from here anymore.” He knew she had already chosen a path: Consecrated life. When the eight days of her vocational experience were over, the young Oneida no longer wanted to return home and requested permission to enter the congregation. “I wanted to discover what God wanted from me, and I entered as an aspirant on May 13, 2012. I completed my postulancy and two years of novitiate, and on August 17, 2013, I made my temporary vows. On August 19, 2019, I made my perpetual vows.” Mother Martínez has a degree in preschool education. She has worked in missions with children and the sick as a religion teacher in primary and secondary schools and as an assistant in a boarding school for young university students with limited resources. She has also ministered in parishes and communities with high crime rates. “Listening to people enduring these problems prevents them from feeling alone, and it is good for them to know that someone is with them,” said Mother Martínez. When she was very young, Mother Martinez always wanted to have a sister, and God has blessed her with many sisters in her congregation. “Having someone close to me as a sister is the most gratifying thing I have ever experienced,” she said. “In my free time, I always look for something to do, like handicrafts, knitting, reading and getting to know new places.” Mother Oneida Martínez likes to be called Mother One, pronounced “Oh-nay.” Regarding their work with young people, the three Sisters agreed that sometimes it is difficult to understand them, but they also have lessons for adults. The most important thing is to give them confidence, to listen to them and get to know their reality without judging or isolating them. Mother Superior Antonia Saucedo, the head of the order, expressed her gratitude to all the people of Idaho for their welcome of the three Sisters who will serve in Idaho. The Sisters will support Father Julio Vicente, pastor of St. Edward the Confessor Catholic Church in Twin Falls, and other parishes in the deanery. If you enjoyed this story and would like to read more like it, please consider buying a subscription to the Idaho Catholic Register. Your $20 yearly subscription also supports the work of the Diocese of Boise Communications Department, which includes not only the newspaper, but this website, social media posts and videos. You can subscribe here , or through your parish, or send a check to 1501 S. Federal Way, Boise, ID, 83705: or call 208-350-7554 to leave a credit card payment. Thank you, and God bless you.