Frank Casabonne - Chair of Bishop Kelly’s Board of Governance By Emily Woodham Staff Writer Bishop Kelly High School is pleased to introduce members of our Board of Governance to the readers of the Idaho Catholic Register. BK’s Board of Governance collaborates with the Diocese of Boise to formulate policies and plans that enable Bishop Kelly to reach their agreed-upon goals. Frank Casabonne believes Catholic education is essential at all levels of learning. “I love our Catholic schools,” said Cassabone, the Chair of Bishop Kelly’s Board of Governance. “I enjoy being a part of the continuation and betterment of Bishop Kelly.” Cassabone attended Catholic schools for all his education, from elementary school to college. He and his wife Janet are parishioners of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Boise. All three of their children went to St. Mary’s School and are Bishop Kelly Alum-knights: Nicole, ‘02, Patrick, ‘05 and Robert, ‘13. They are also grandparents to six aspiring Knights, three of whom currently attend St. Mary’s Catholic School in Boise, two who are students at St. Ignatius in Meridian, and one who is not yet school-aged. The Board of Governance is responsible for the operation of Bishop Kelly and has 12 members. There is a representative from each of the seven parishes in Ada County and one from St. Paul’s Parish in Nampa. The superintendent of schools, Tammy Emerich, and the president of the Bishop Kelly Foundation, Jeff Lliteras, are also on the board. The two priests on the board for this year are Father Vitalis Onyeama, pastor at Holy Apostles Parish in Meridian, and Father Germán Osorio, rector at the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist in Boise. The board generally meets once a month and hears reports from four committees: Mission and Catholic Identity, Operations and Policy, Buildings and Grounds and the Finance Committee. The principal, Dr. Sarah Quilici, the president of the Foundation and the superintendent also provide information. The only employee of the Board of Governance is the president of Bishop Kelly, Bill Avey. “Working with finances is the most difficult part of being on the board,” Cassabone said. “You need the funds to run the school, but you don’t want to make the tuition prohibitive.” The financial aid from the Bishop Kelly Foundation has been wonderful for families who otherwise could not send their kids to Bishop Kelly.” Cassabone said he is passionate about young people learning about and practicing their faith. He is excited that Bishop Kelly students can encounter Jesus in their classrooms, through their activities and athletic endeavors, and alongside their friends and classmates. Cassabone, along with BK Chaplain Father Greg Vance and members of BK’s administration, have worked to create fun and meaningful opportunities for students to grow in their Catholic faith. During his four-year tenure on the board, Bishop Kelly has added a full-time Chaplain to the staff, increased retreat opportunities for students, launched an initiative to bring more faith formation into the Athletics program at BK, and began offering weekly adoration to students, staff, and parents. Cassabone wants Bishop Kelly students to feel engaged and connected to their home parishes. “We need more Bishop Kelly students to demonstrate Catholic leadership in their home parishes by participating in liturgies, serving as readers and Eucharistic Ministers, and engaging with the younger students in our Catholic grade schools. When this happens, it greatly benefits the Catholic community in Idaho,” he said. Cassabone has also been a part of strategic planning at BK. “I believe that Bishop Kelly’s new strategic plan will encourage and give opportunities for faith formation not just for BK students, but also for faculty, staff, parents, and the greater BK Family and community.” In addition to providing valuable input for BK’s new Strategic Plan, he led the board through a season of change with Bill Avey stepping into the role of President after the retirement of Rich Raimondi in 2022, and Dr. Sarah Quilici leading the school as Principal after Mike Caldwell’s retirement last spring. Cassabone’s care and commitment to BK help to ensure the school continues to fulfill its mission to “educate and develop students in the Catholic tradition - spirit, mind, and body.” 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.

This year’s Idaho Catholic Women’s Conference, held at St. Paul’s Catholic Church in Nampa, exceeded attendance expectations. (Photo ICR/ Vero Gutiérrez ) By Emily Woodham Staff Writer BOISE – “Everlasting Love” was the theme of this year’s Idaho Catholic Women’s Conference at St. Paul’s Parish in Nampa. Almost 480 attended in person, and more than 290 women participated in the conference online, with 13 watch parties averaging 20 women. It was by far the largest conference in the ten years since its inception. “All three speakers were very complimentary of our conference and the women in attendance,” said Carol Brown, director of Marketing and Community Relations at Salt & Light Radio. Bishop Peter Christensen of the Diocese of Boise celebrated Mass at the conference’s opening. “When a person knows they’re loved, they can bear almost anything,” Bishop Peter said in his homily. He further explained the foundation of each person’s knowledge of love comes from their first encounters with his or her mother. Just as an infant awakens to the relationship of love between herself and her mother, a similar awakening happens to a person at baptism. A participant at the 2023 Idaho Catholic Women’s Conference in a moment of personal prayer. (ICR photo /Vero Gutiérrez) “I think our priests would agree that when you baptize a child, there’s a different look in the child’s eyes. You can look in the eyes and see eternity. It’s a glorious moment, even if the child is crying. That life changes, and the gift of faith is given. It gives the ability to recognize there is a God who created us and cares for us, a God who loves us deeply and will do so for all eternity,” he said. Reflecting on Jeremiah 31:3, in which God says to Israel through the prophet, “With age-old love, I have loved you; so I have kept my mercy toward you,” Bishop Peter asked the assembly to consider God’s great love for each of them. “Can you hear, my sisters, these words spoken to you by God? You, my beloved daughter, in you, I am well pleased. I am so pleased with you.” Although we can give reasons why God shouldn’t be pleased with us, “God still cares for us and is pleased with us,” he said. Bishop Peter Christensen celebrates the opening Mass with Eternal World Television Chaplain Father Joseph Mary and Father Goodluck Ajaero, SMMM, Parochial Vicar of Saint Paul’s in Nampa. (ICR photo /Vero Gutiérrez) “Every act of true selfless love we receive and give bears fruit because love is of inestimable value. Love builds a solid foundation, giving us confidence to live the life we’re called to live. That confidence is set strong in the Lord through baptism.” “How we live our lives, especially a life of faith, can make a difference in the way we see the world. In faith, we can see with gratitude and that we are blessed,” he said. “You are loved. You are not alone. God is walking with you. He’ll be with you through thick and thin. He loves you with an age-old love, and his mercy is everlasting.” This year’s keynote speakers were Emily Wilson, Sister Faustina Maria of the Sisters of the Children of Mary, and Father Joseph Mary of the Franciscan Missionaries of the Eternal World (MFVA). Emily Wilson , speaker, author and worship leader, encouraged women to slow down in their busy schedules and become aware of God’s love for them and the “bouquets” of gifts He gives them daily. The key to this, she said, is vulnerability. Women often resist vulnerability because others have abused their openness and hurt them. “The Lord never uses our vulnerability against us,” Wilson said. “His heart is always a safe, sacred place for our vulnerable selves.” She said that being blessed by God, who loves us, is deeper than what we possess or do. God’s blessings complement our identity as God’s beloved. “He says, ‘You are my beloved. My everlasting love is for you personally.’ God is blessing you throughout your life, showering you with love, with beauty and speaking the truth of who you are every single day. The question for you is: Are you paying attention?” said Wilson, explaining that we often keep our lives too full for God. We become so busy we don’t take time to pray or to be present in the moment to hear Him speaking to our hearts. Everyday, we need to choose. We can choose to listen to God’s voice and how He loves us, or we can listen to the voices of negativity from our past or our misconceptions, explained Wilson. Through prayer, the Lord wants to take us back to the moments when our hearts were wounded so He can heal us. “The Lord wants to come into those hurt places and heal us so we can live our life in His everlasting love. It’s a desire of His that we should live most fully alive. In this healing, we can claim our blessedness, our ‘beloved-ness.’” Sister Faustina Maria emphasized how the Eucharist is a gift of Jesus’ love united to His Crucifixion. In Holy Communion, He is fully present with us as our Savior and Healer, she said, and we cannot love and live as Christians without Him. “We have Adoration, time in intimacy of love with the Beloved. And then we have Mass and Communion in which we live with the Beloved, letting the Beloved live through us. As members of His body, we are all called to be another Christ to the world,” Sister Faustina said. Father Joseph Mary , Eternal Word Television Network chaplain, described three types of miracles arising from the Blessed Sacrament: intellectual, moral and physical. In intellectual miracles, he explained, a person experiences a change of mind, in which they have a pro-found realization of God’s existence and His truth. Moral miracles are a miraculous strengthening of a person to live a genuine Christian life. Physical miracles are bodily healings. These miracles are seen throughout Church history, especially in the lives of the saints, and are tied to receiving or adoring the Eucharist. “Life can become overwhelming at times,” Father Joseph Mary said. “So just go before the Lord in the Blessed Sacrament. He’ll give us light, the lamp with light enough for the next step. Maybe we’re not going to see a whole solution in the future, but we’re going to see the next step, the next positive thing to do. We’ll have a new hope in our heart that comes alive.” Diana Tetreault, general manager for Salt & Light Radio, said the radio station makes no profit from the conference and hopes at least to break even. However, the conferences are worth presenting, she added, because they are a part of the apostolic mission of the radio station to evangelize and teach. Next year’s conference is Saturday, Sept. 21, at the Boise Centre and online. “We are celebrating Year Three of the Eucharistic Revival, of being missionary and going out,” Carol Brown said. “We will start with Mass at the Cathedral and process to the Boise Centre. For those with limited mobility, we will have shuttles.” Registration for the 2024 conference opens on the Feast Day of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, Tuesday, July 16. Because of the success of the Idaho men’s and women’s conferences, they are adding two more events for Sal y Luz Radio: a men’s Hispanic conference in October and a women’s Hispanic conference in January. 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.

The following story appeared in the September 8 Idaho Catholic Register. The Nichols family celebrating the graduation of Missy’s daughter, Faith. From left to right Adam, Faith, Missy and Elle Nichols. (Courtesy Photo/Missy Nichols) By Emily Woodham Staff Writer “I’ve always viewed my life’s work in education as ministry,” said Missy Nichols, who sees her role in education, whether as a teacher or administrator, as a vocation. “No matter what we do in education, it is an opportunity to speak life into our students.” Nichols is the new vice principal of Academic Affairs at Bishop Kelly High School in Boise. Nichols came to BK in 2016 after teaching in public high schools for 14 years. Her role as vice principal is her first in administration. “I think one of the awesome things that Missy brings to the table is that she’s just out of the classroom,” said Dr. Sarah Quilici, principal at Bishop Kelly. “She comes with her experience in teaching and knows what we need to do and think about as we make classroom decisions.” Nichols became a teacher because of the power of relationships and wanting to follow the example of her father, a Lutheran pastor. “I want to follow in my dad’s footsteps,” she said, “just as he follows Jesus’ footsteps by engaging with others, helping them grow and understand the value God intends them to know about themselves.” Wanting to engage with and help others, combined with her love for speaking, led her to choose a career in education. “Studying literature and participating in college discussions revealed to me the power of story in teaching, how both relationships and the study of human culture demonstrate virtue and teach lessons.” Nichols graduated in 1997 from Pacific Lutheran University in Calif., earning a bachelor’s in Secondary Education and Teaching. She received her master’s in Educational Leadership and Administration from the University of Idaho in 2002. Through her love of athletics, Nichols also learned the values of teamwork, personal goal fulfillment and understanding different roles. She coached and participated in sports throughout her career. Nichols coached softball in public high schools in the West Ada school district (and taught English) before coming to Bishop Kelly to teach and coach in 2016. Although she is not Catholic, Nichols is now participating in the Order of Christian Initiation for Adults (OCIA). Even before entering OCIA, she saw participating in a Catholic school as an opportunity to live out her faith. “How could someone not see education as a vocation, a calling?” she said. “To work with future generations and instill work habits, moral virtues, and a life-long love of learning, while revealing one’s love of a specific subject matter all nicely contribute to what the Catholic intellectual tradition requires.” Her interest in becoming Catholic came from her relationships with people who witnessed the faith. “These Catholics demonstrate by the way they live that their walk with Jesus is alive and real. If I didn’t see that, it wouldn’t have ever made me wonder if there was anything more or different than my experiences in evangelical denominations,” she said. Nichols has found that Catholic identity means different things to different people. Identity can mean displaying symbols of faith, such as the Cross or images of Mary and the saints. It can also mean integrating faith practices such as prayer in classrooms, daily Mass, or having opportunities for Adoration and Reconciliation. For Nichols, she has enjoyed the timelessness of Catholic teaching. “I have enjoyed the fidelity with which the Catholic Church has tried to preserve the teachings of Jesus through scripture, the evidence of His Holy Spirit working through people in the lives of the saints, and the commitment to traditions the Church maintains to provide unity.” 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.

The following story appeared in the September 8 Idaho Catholic Register. Back row, second from left, Isaac Alsop is now Brother Ignatius Jerome, a novice in the Order of Preachers (Dominicans). Brother Ignatius Jerome is studying at the Dominican House of Studies in San Francisco. (Courtesy photo/Dominican House of Studies) By Emily Woodham Staff Writer Isaac Alsop knew he was called to be a priest from the time he was 13. “Feeling called to the priesthood came simply from hearing my pastor, Father Ben Uhlenkott, give his vocation testimony 10 years ago at St. Mark’s,” Alsop said. (Father Uhlenkott is currently pastor at Risen Christ Parish in Boise.) Throughout high school and college, Alsop continued to discern that call, weighing many priesthood options. On Aug. 31 of this year, his discernment concluded when he entered the novitiate at the Dominican House of Studies in San Francisco where he will study to be a priest in the Order of Preachers. It wasn’t until Alsop was 21 that Religious life entered his plan for the priesthood. After meeting Religious priests at a Summer Projects program sponsored by Fellowship of Catholic University Students (FOCUS), and meeting some women who were discerning Religious life, Alsop began discerning becoming a part of a community. “The previous call to priesthood remained un-changed, but a new element was added,” he said. “The support I received from family and friends has been phenomenal. Everyone encouraged me and understood acceptingly that things would be different in the future.” He is a cradle Catholic whose parents converted to Catholicism when they were adults. Although his parents were of a Protestant background, they had a deep faith history; one of his grandfathers was a Lutheran pastor. Isaac Alsop, 6 years-old, “celebrating Mass.” (Courtesy photos/Tammy Alsop) “My parents raised me solidly in the Faith,” he said. “I cannot resent my upbringing even slightly, as it provided me with everything I needed for what God has put before me now. Both parents were passionate about and interested in the Faith, and it was easy to make it my own.” Alsop explained that his family never considered Catholicism to be just a cultural aspect of life. “The journey away from them in Religious life is a fulfillment of, not a break with, the core of that life of Faith in my family.” Alsop went to St. Mark’s Catholic School from kindergarten through eighth grade. As a child, Isaac would sometimes pretend to be a priest and “celebrate Mass.” His parents encouraged him to consider the priesthood. In eighth grade, they allowed him to go to Mount Angel Seminary for a vocations discernment retreat. Alsop continued his education at Bishop Kelly High School in Boise. While there, he was active in Knights for Life, a Respect Life club. He was also involved in “Apologhetti,” an inter-parish group of teens who met for talks on apologetics and a spaghetti dinner. Alsop graduated from BK in 2018. “By his late teenage years, he was pulled in many other directions,” said Alsop’s father, Abe. “He searched for truth in books from many other religions and ideologies, such as the Protestant “Left Behind” series, the Book of Mormon and the Koran.” Alsop’s search for truth ultimately led him to the philosophy program at Boise State University. “He was able to have deep conversations with people three times his age. This was a tough time for us as parents, but it only made his faith stronger as he discovered for himself the reasons for Catholic doctrines,” Abe Alsop said. Alsop, 23, parishioner of St. Mark’s, entered the Order of Preachers (Dominicans) this year. (Courtesy photos/Tammy Alsop) Alsop became involved with FOCUS at St. Paul’s Student Center at Boise State. In the summer of 2021, Isaac volunteered with FOCUS missionaries to serve at a youth camp in Wrightwood, Calif. During that trip, he met a Dominican priest whom he found to be a role model for how to be both socially charismatic and intellectually faithful. The experience from that summer prepared him to take on more leadership roles at St. Paul’s Student Center, where he served as an altar server and helped with maintenance. He also led discussions on faith and reason with other students. In his final year of college, he lived at the student center. He presented a series of talks for students called “Theology 101” and “Theology 102.” He also served as a sponsor for several students who joined the Church through participation in the Order of Christian Initiation for Adults. “Had it not been for St. Paul’s Student Center in Boise, I would be nowhere near the spiritual place I find myself today,” said Alsop. “The intensity and depth of the experiences at St. Paul’s that impacted me most were the fraternal, sacramental and intellectual life.” The friendships and sense of community at the student center were incredible, he explained. “The fraternal aspect alone would have made Religious life seem desirable,” he said. “Intellectually, a focus on the truths of the Faith and teaching them to others, after studying myself, has been a core mission of my time at St. Paul’s. That led me directly to an interest in the Dominican charism of preaching truth.” He described the sacramental life at St. Paul’s as “vibrant, reverent and constant.” He continued, “It wasn’t just a religious obligation for any of us. It was something worth giving one’s life for.” With his experience at St. Paul’s, Alsop also credits his family life and his dad for his interest in the intellectual side of Catholicism. Alsop graduated from Boise State University in the spring of this year with a bachelor’s degree in philosophy. “We are humbled and amazed but not surprised to see Isaac joining the Dominican friars,” Abe Alsop said. “Isaac is blazing a new trail for his family while still retaining the best of his heritage. His intellectual journey made the Dominican order a natural fit for him.” However, Alsop did not immediately choose the Dominicans. “In high school, I thought about the Fraternity of St. Peter, seeking solidly orthodox doc-trine,” Alsop said. “I also thought about the Carmelites, wanting a contemplative spiritual atmosphere. I thought about the Jesuits enough to make St. Ignatius my confirmation saint, inspired by the zeal exuded by their founders to evangelize the world.” Alsop also considered being a diocesan priest. The role of a diocesan priest to teach and help others, to be a confessor and homilist, was something he wanted to live out, but the pull to a religious community remained with him throughout his discernment process. “I’ve found the Dominicans to be focused on evangelizing, contemplative yet active, doctrinally solid and studious. I found that most Dominicans in our province help parishes and spiritually father the flocks in them. The coalescing of every diverse element that drew me further to this vocation signified, to me, a call to the Dominicans,” he said. But to answer this call, he had to overcome his tendency to over-intellectualize and to stay shut up within himself. “There was a time when I misunderstood the Dominican charism as being primarily about studying truth. With this misunderstanding, my personal growth seemed to be pulling me away from the Order, and towards something where I could truly help people heal.” However, in his studies, Alsop found that St. Dominic himself, when famine engulfed the poor of his city, said, “How can I study from dead scrolls while living men die of hunger?” St. Dominic then sold all his books and bought food for the hungry. In reading about this, Alsop had a similar sense, asking himself, “How can I sit around thinking about philosophical minutiae while actual hearts and minds thirst for healing?” While contemplating this, Alsop found clarity and conviction about St. Dominic’s spirit and task. “Dominican life is not about hiding among bookshelves; it is about feeding the spiritually starving. All study is for preaching; it’s for others. After this realization, the only thing left to do was apply to the Order.” Before entering the novitiate, Alsop said he felt confident, not in his powers of discernment, but in God’s guidance. “While I have to admit that I don’t know where I’ll be in ten years, there comes a point where the time for doubt has passed. This is that time for me.” 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.

The following story appeared in the September 8 Idaho Catholic Register. The Ulery family, from left to right, Hannah, Matt, Nolan, and Melea. Below, Matt and Melea (Photos by Heather M. Webster Photography, www.hmwebsterphoto.com) By Emily Woodham Staff Writer “The thing that makes catechetics different from other areas of education is that you’re teaching a relationship with a Person,” said Melea Ulery, the new director of the Office of Religious Education and Catechetical Leadership for the Diocese of Boise. Ulery began her role as director in August. “The way you teach people to love Jesus is different than how you teach people to do math. It’s intrinsically different.” That means making sure religious educators are equipped for success. Ulery wants to build relationships with catechists so she can serve them better. “I want to do everything I can to help them have the tools they need so they can minister to the people in their parishes in every capacity. I want to know their strengths and where they need help. I’m looking forward to working together.” Ulery said she wanted to be a teacher for as long as she can remember. A cradle Catholic, Ulery lived in Kansas, Missouri and Texas while growing up. “I’ve been to lots of churches and experienced lots of different people that make the Church so beautiful and vibrant,” she said. “I think it really just gave me a worldview and the resources to have a depth to my faith that has been helpful in my life.” Growing up in the Church, she can sympathize when kids feel like church is boring. But she can also tell kids with sincerity that going to Mass is important, that Jesus is truly present and wants to speak to their hearts. Her mother taught music at her parish school and inspired Ulery to pursue education. “I loved organizing things, helping with school supplies and helping people.” While in high school, her family lived in Houston, Texas. It was there, in a vibrant parish, that she owned her faith. “We had a great youth minister and a great pastor who were whole-heartedly invested in the youth,” she said. “As my own faith became more important to me, I thought, ‘Why would I ever want to teach anything else?’” From then on, she knew she was called to teach religion. Ulery graduated from Franciscan University at Steubenville, Ohio with bachelors degrees in Theology, Catechetics and Communications. She was involved in campus ministry and taught theology at a Catholic high school in Calif. for 10 years. When not teaching, she led retreats and gave presentations nationwide for Steubenville Youth Conferences. She moved to Idaho in 2014 with her husband and two children, and took a position with a Catholic curriculum company. She also assisted the Office of Religious Education and Catechetical Leadership by training catechists for Jackie Hopper, the former director. She and her family are members of Holy Apostles Catholic Church in Meridian, and her children have attended St. Ignatius Catholic School since it opened in 2017. Ulery served on the school board of St. Ignatius last year. Ulery noted parishioners and catechists need to live out a genuine faith for a parish to have a fruitful religious education program. “We are not just transmitting information. We need to model our faith. We need to be loving and giving. We need to let Christ be incarnate in us — seeing Christ in others, seeing Christ in ourselves, and then sharing Christ with others. It’s a beautiful synthesis.” Catechesis, explained Ulery, forms minds and hearts so that people can encounter Christ in the Sacraments and in the people around them. “As catechists, we get to share that living joy and accompany others as we seek heaven together. My goal is to go to heaven and to help as many people get there with me as I can. There is nothing better.” “Our faith is not easy, but even through difficulties or spiritual deserts, there can be life. In those times that can be like winter, we know that spring is coming. Every Good Friday has an Easter Sunday; it’s the beautiful paradox of the Cross,” she said. Ulery explained that making faith a priority is important for all members of a parish and is essential for evangelization. If Catholics live their faith in joy, it attracts others to want to be a part of the Church, even if someone is not in formal ministry, and this is crucial for bringing people into the Church through the Order of Christian Initiation for Adults (OCIA). She concluded, “When all of us live out our faith in our modern, busy lives, people see that. It’s intriguing for others. Whether it’s for kids in the classroom or adults in OCIA, it’s that authentic witness of a Christ-filled, sacrament-filled life that people want.” 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.

The following story appeared in the August 25 Idaho Catholic Register. From left to right, Ray Ineck, Mark Jaszkowski, Steve Green, Donna Gordon, Mark McCormack, Tim LaMott, Dan Maloney, Deacon Chris Privon, Greg Metsker. (ICR photos/Emily Woodham) By Emily Woodham Staff Writer The “Journey With Us” revitalization project for St. Mark’s Catholic School is complete. “The new chapel is the highlight of the many tasks undertaken this summer,” said Tim LaMott, a life-long parishioner, school alum, parent and grandparent, and supervisor of the renovations for St. Mark’s. When entering the newly renovated school, students and visitors look directly upon the chapel and see the tabernacle behind the altar. “Christ is truly at the center of our school,” said LaMott. From the chapel, a hall to the left leads to the middle school, while a hall to the right leads to the elementary school. “The chapel is amazing,” said Donna Gordon, principal of St. Mark’s. “Most of the woodwork in the chapel was made by St. Mark’s families.” Former school principal Dan Maloney helped produce the carved ornamentation on the chapel furniture using a digitally assisted process known as Computer Numerical Control. Mark Jaszkowski, a St. Mark’s parishioner and grandparent of students at the school, restored the presider’s and deacon’s chairs. The chairs were purchased by Father Paul O’Donnell, St. Mark’s pastor. Father O’Donnell also chose the new statues of the Blessed Virgin Mary and St. Joseph. St. Mark’s parishioners, Greg and Grace Metsker, whose children attend the school, made the new credence table and chair rails using wood from the original pews. The chair rails extend throughout the school to help protect the walls. The altar was made by Deacon Chris Privon who serves at St. Mark’s and whose grandchildren attend the school. Ray Ineck made the ambo, Mark McCormick made the tabernacle stand, Rob Green created the computeraided design and layout for the chapel, and Steve Green stained and sealed the chapel furniture. All of them are St. Mark’s parishioners and have children in the school. Two stained glass windows are from the original St. Mark’s church and are back lit with adjustable lighting. The chandeliers in the chapel are custom-made and have adjustable brightness. “Chairs are being used for seating to make the chapel space more flexible,” said Tim LaMott who oversaw the “Journey With Us” renovations. The space, he said, will be used for Mass, Adoration, sacramental preparation, theology classes and retreats. In addition to the chapel renovations, numerous updates were made to other parts of the school this summer. LaMott spent long hours ensuring goals were met on time, while an army of volunteers worked alongside contractors to finish the work before school started in August. The renovated school library features rolling book-shelves that make it easy to rearrange and clean the space. (ICR photos/Emily Woodham) The renovated school includes a new library with a circulation desk. “The stacks for the library are on wheels, making it simple to rearrange and clean the space,” LaMott said. The faculty lounge was enlarged and renovated with a dishwasher, cabinets and a bathroom. Old ceiling tiles were taken down, making the entrance to the elementary brighter. Updates were made to the gym, which also serves as the cafeteria, where new cooking surfaces make preparing and serving food easier. Even the school’s exterior was updated to unify the different construction phases, using a pattern of alternating brick and sandstone. As the school’s enrollment grew, new safety issues arose. Limited space to drop off and pick up students became a concern, so a concrete plaza with a railing was created to ensure student safety and prevent traffic blind spots. Although the construction phases are done, LaMott said the fundraising campaign still needs about $300,000 to cover final expenses. To donate to the “Journey With Us” campaign at St. Mark’s, contact Kathleen Brinegar at kbrinegar@ stmarksschoolboise.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 Camilo’s pilgrimage to World Youth Day *Spanish Abajo Fathers Camilo and Cintra prepare for Mass with Pope Francis at WYD. (Photos courtesy of Father Camilo García) Padre Camilo y Padre Nelson Cintra, a punto de comenzar la celebración Eucarística, con el Papa Francisco en la JMJ. (Fotos cortesía de Padre Camilo García) By Vero Gutiérrez Staff Writer Participating in World Youth Day (WYD) was like celebrating a new Pentecost, said Father Camilo García, parish priest of Saint Nicholas in Rupert. Father Camilo traveled with the youth from Idaho led by the Diocesan Office of Youth and Young Adult Evangelization. The August 1- 8 pilgrimage was Father Camilo’s first WYD experience and his first visit to Europe, so he had many expectations, especially learning the histories of the places he visited. “I found there are many similarities between Spain and my country (Mexico),” said Father Camilo, “above all, in the type of housing, the food and the construction of the churches.” Celebrating with Pope Francis, cardinals, bishops, priests, and one and a half million young people left a mark on Father Camilo. “The universal Church manifested itself under a festive atmosphere of faith, following Christ and confessing Him in different languages,” Father Camilo said excitedly. “It didn’t matter what language people spoke — joy was manifested in everyone, and they shared the same spirit of joy.” Though the event was for youth and young adults, Father Camilo saw many parents accompanying children. One could see pilgrims of every age. Father Camilo shared that an atmosphere of brotherhood predominated, and everyone helped each other. For example, a picture went viral on social networks in which a young man named Lourenço, who requires a wheelchair, was lifted by fellow pilgrims so that he could see the Pope. Father Camilo noted this trip was a real pilgrimage, though, with its share of suffering. He explained it took him six hours to walk from his hotel in Lisbon to the vigil Mass in Tejo Park on Saturday, August 5. “It was a long journey through narrow streets, with cobblestones and many hills.” He explained it was common as temperatures were very high to see people lining up in front of the water fountains to drink. Father Camilo García gets ready to hear confessions at WYD. Portable confessionals were erected at the “City of Joy and Reconciliation.” (Photos courtesy of Father Camilo García) Padre Camilo García, posando para la fotografía, antes de iniciar la jornada de confesiones en la Ciudad de la Alegría de la Reconciliación. Al fondo, se pueden observar los confesionarios portátiles, que se realizaron para las confesiones. For Father Camilo, another special moment on his journey was hearing confessions. The place prepared for this healing sacrament was called the City of the Joy of Reconciliation. There, on a soccer field, some very creative portable confessionals were set up, allowing each young person to confess in his or her own language. While hearing confessions, Father Camilo received a gift from a young man from Panama. He was given a vestment like those received by priests who participated in World Youth Day in Panama in 2019. It was stamped with the image of theVirgin Mary. Father Camilo, who has a special devotion to the Virgin Mary, wore the vestment with great joy during the closing Mass that he concelebrated with Pope Francis and 10,000 other priests. Finally, Father Camilo affirmed that one of the unforgettable experiences of this World Youth Day was the joy of the young people, manifested in cheers, songs, dances, and their faith expressed with an attitude of deep respect towards Jesus in the Eucharist. “In the presence of the Blessed Sacrament, everyone knelt in an attitude of deep adoration and contemplation, said Father Camilo.” In the midst of a secularized society, it is impressive to see hundreds of thousands of young people who manifest their faith without reservation. This was surprising, not only for those of us who were pilgrims, but even for people who were not part of World Youth Day.” Viviendo un nuevo Pentecostés Peregrinación de Padre Camilo a la Jornada Mundial de la Juventud Por Vero Gutiérrez Colaboradora Participar de la Jornada Mundial de la Juventud (JMJ), ha sido como celebrar un nuevo Pentecostés, afirmó el Padre Camilo García, párroco de Saint Nicholas en Rupert. Él viajó con los jóvenes de Idaho, dirigidos por la Oficina Diocesana para la Evangelización de Jóvenes y Jóvenes Adultos. La peregrinación del 1 al 8 de agosto, fue su primera experiencia en la JMJ y estar por primera vez en Europa, lo hicieron una visita con mucha expectativa para aprender la historia de estos lugares. “Encontré que hay muchas similitudes en España y mi país México”, compartió Padre Camilo “sobre todo, en el tipo de viviendas, la comida y la construcción de las iglesias.” Una de las experiencias que dejó una huella en la vida de Padre Camilo en este viaje, fue haber participado de esta celebración con el Papa Francisco, cardenales, obispos, sacerdotes y 1 millón y medio de jóvenes. “La Iglesia Universal se manifestó en un ambiente festivo de fe, siguiendo a Cristo y confesándolo en diferentes lenguas” aseguró emocionado el Padre Camilo “no importaba que lengua hablaran las personas, en todos se manifestaban la alegría, compartían un mismo espíritu de gozo como en Pentecostés.” Aunque el evento fue para jóvenes y adultos jóvenes, el Padre Camilo vio a muchos padres acompañando a sus hijos pequeños. Se podían ver peregrinos de todas las edades. El Padre Camilo comentó que predominaba un ambiente de hermandad, en el que todos se ayudaban. Por ejemplo, hay una fotografía que se hizo viral en las redes sociales, donde se ve a un joven de nombre Lourenço, quien está en una silla de ruedas y fue levantado por diversas personas junto a él para que pudiera saludar al Papa. Padre Camilo dijo que este viaje fue una verdadera peregrinación, aunque con su parte de sufrimiento. Explicó que le tomó seis horas caminar desde su hotel en Lisboa hasta la Misa de vigilia en el Parque Tejo el sábado 5 de agosto. “Fue un largo viaje por calles estrechas, con adoquines y muchas colinas”. Explicó que era común ver gente haciendo fila frente a las fuentes de agua para beber ya que las temperaturas eran muy altas. Otra de las experiencias memorables en esta jornada, fue el momento de escuchar las confesiones. El lugar donde se preparó todo para realizar las confesiones fue llamado la Ciudad de la Alegría de la Reconciliación. Ahí, en un campo de fútbol, se montaron unos muy creativos confesionarios portátiles, con la posibilidad de que cada joven pudiera confesarse en su propio idioma. Mientras escuchaba las confesiones, el Padre Camilo recibió un ornamento sacerdotal, de un joven de Panamá. Este era un ornamento igual a los que recibieron los sacerdotes que participaron en la Jornada Mundial de la Juventud, en Panamá, en 2019. Tenía estampada la Imagen de Nuestra Señora. Fue un regalo muy especial para él, porque es devoto de la Virgen María y con mucha alegría lo usó durante la Misa de clausura, que concelebró con el Papa Francisco y 10 millones de sacerdotes. Finalmente, el Padre Camilo, afirmó que uno de los detalles inolvidables en esta Jornada Mundial, será la alegría de los jóvenes manifestada en porras, cantos, bailes y su fe expresada con una actitud de profundo respeto hacia Jesús Eucaristía. “Ante la presencia del Santísimo Sacramento, todos se ponían de rodillas en una actitud de profunda adoración y contemplación, dijo el Padre Camilo “En medio de una sociedad secularizada, es impresionante ver a miles de jóvenes que manifiesten su fe sin reservas, esto era sorprendente, no solo para quienes participamos por primera vez de este encuentro mundial, sino incluso, para las personas que no eran parte de él.” 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.

Bishop Kelly’s football team hiked to Table Rock at sunrise to kick off their season. (Courtesy Photo/Katie Hayes) By Emily Woodham Staff Writer Dr. Sarah Quilici is the new principal of Bishop Kelly High School in Boise. “People keep asking me if I’m excited to come into this role, and I am. Over the past 15 years, I feel like God has prepared me for this role by forming me first at Bishop Kelly, then principal for St. Joes and eventually as Superintendent of Catholic Schools.” Quilici, who has been in education since 2002, started her career in administration 15 years ago at Bishop Kelly as assistant principal. In 2011, she served as assistant principal at Timberline High School, a public school in Boise. Three years later, she became principal at St. Joseph’s Catholic School in Boise. In 2017, she was appointed Superintendent of Catholic Schools, overseeing 15 Catholic K-8 schools and two Catholic high schools in Idaho. She returned to Bishop Kelly last year as Vice Principal of Academic Affairs. Quilici holds a Ph.D. from the University of Idaho, an Education Specialist in Administration from the University of Idaho, and a master’s in English and a bachelor’s in English Teaching from Boise State University. Quilici is also a wife and mother of four. All her children attend Catholic schools. Her oldest child is a sophomore at Bishop Kelly. “Bishop Kelly has grown and changed,” Quilici said. “And we need to look to the future and see how to continue to grow and change.” “I was blessed to be here last year as an assistant principal,” she said. During that time, Bishop Kelly undertook an intensive self-study as part of their accreditation process, to see where the school needed to grow. “Four goals arose from that process, which will guide us over the next five years. The goals are to impact mind, body and spirit. We’re still working on the strategic plan, but one of those goals is to make sure we’re integrating the Faith across all the curriculum in an intentional way.” This year the school will have an accreditation visit from the Western Catholic Education Association. “A visiting team will evaluate our self-study. They’ll go into all of our classrooms and attend our all-school Mass. They will examine all parts of our program,” she said. In their efforts to obtain continued accreditation, Bishop Kelly wants to make sure they are offering the best for their students, she noted. “Our enrollment is at 977. We have grown so much from the 600 students enrolled 15 years ago. We want to do a curriculum audit, to really look at our course offerings and make sure we are staying competitive from an academic standpoint,” she said. Students attending “Freshman Academy,” From left to right, Rowen Belew, Jamie Baker, Catherine Boot. (Courtesy Photos/Bishop Kelly High School) Students attending “Freshman Academy,”, from left to right, Aidan Branley, Jaxson Brady, Leyton Allen, Henry Anderson. (Courtesy Photos/Bishop Kelly High School) One of the main challenges in education, noted Quilici, is artificial intelligence (AI). “We’re going to have to talk a lot about AI this year. How do we teach students to use that for good? There can be benefits to AI, but we want to make sure that students are still thinking for themselves.” To help build community at the school, Bishop Kelly is starting a “house system.” Many other Catholic schools already take this approach. “Each student will belong to a family group, and each house will have eight family groups,” she said. The eight houses are named for virtues in Latin: Veritas (Truth), Caritas (Love), Integritas (Integrity), Servium (Service), Gaudium (Joy), Fortis (Strong/Courageous), Fidelis (Faith), and Nobilitas (Honor). The families are named for saints, including St. Teresa of Avila, St. Joan of Arc, St. John Chrysostom and St. Thomas Aquinas. The families and houses will have activities and friendly competitions with each other. “We think this will be really good for the students,” she said. In their efforts to obtain continued accreditation, Bishop Kelly wants to make sure they are offering the best for their students, she noted. “Our enrollment is at 977. We have grown so much from the 600 students enrolled 15 years ago. We want to do a curriculum audit, to really look at our course offerings and make sure we are staying competitive from an academic standpoint,” she said. One of the main challenges in education, noted Quilici, is artificial intelligence (AI). “We’re going to have to talk a lot about AI this year. How do we teach students to use that for good? There can be benefits to AI, but we want to make sure that students are still thinking for themselves.” To help build community at the school, Bishop Kelly is starting a “house system.” Many other Catholic schools already take this approach. “Each student will belong to a family group, and each house will have eight family groups,” she said. The eight houses are named for virtues in Latin: Veritas (Truth), Caritas (Love), Integritas (Integrity), Servium (Service), Gaudium (Joy), Fortis (Strong/Courageous), Fidelis (Faith), and Nobilitas (Honor). The families are named for saints, including St. Teresa of Avila, St. Joan of Arc, St. John Chrysostom and St. Thomas Aquinas. The families and houses will have activities and friendly competitions with each other. “We think this will be really good for the students,” she said. Quilici is looking forward to the school year. “Looking back on the path on which God has put me, that brings me to this spot, I can see what He’s done to prepare and equip me for it. But my prayer is still that of Solomon: I need wisdom and understanding to do this job. That’s my daily prayer, that I be given wisdom and understanding.” 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.

The following story appeared in the August 11 Idaho Catholic Register. Ralph May, executive director of the Southwest Idaho Conference of St. Vincent de Paul presented a certificate from the SVdP national conference to Cathy Hagadone for her 25 years of service. (Courtesy photos/Genesis Pittman) By Emily Woodham Staff Writer EAGLE – The Southwest Idaho Conference of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul celebrated 25 years of service at this year’s Summerfest Gala at the Château des Fleurs in Eagle. “Community is the tie that binds us here this evening,” said Ralph May, executive director for the conference. “As an organization, we rely on God’s providence, played out through an incredible community of volunteers who passionately contribute their time and talents and invest generously to build a better future for our struggling neighbors.” About 180 attended the event, according to Mareesa Rule, development director. Cathy Hagadone, president of the council, received a certificate from the national SVdP council for her 25 years of service to the organization. The evening concluded with live and silent auctions and a raffle for a 2023 Subaru Impreza and a Subaru Outback. The Impreza was won by a member of the Holy Apostles Conference of SVdP and the Subaru went to a member St. Maximilian Kolbe Re-Entry Conference, Rule said. The Diocese of Boise, City of Boise, the Idaho Department of Correction and Idaho Power Company are among the many partners who expand and enhance the work of SVdP, May said. The council serves those in need from Mountain Home to beyond the western borders of Canyon County. “We are joined by members of our local conferences and other volunteers who dedicate time, resources, and open hearts to directly serve our neighbors in need. We are fortunate to do this work.” About 1,600 volunteers helped SVdP’s many outreach programs during the past year. Some of those ministries include a re-entry program for those exiting incarceration, food pantries, thrift stores and home visits to help people avoid homelessness. “We are overwhelmingly a volunteer organization,” May said. Last year, SVdP distributed more than 750 tons of food. “The number of people seeking food assistance has grown alarmingly this year, with our five locations serving at record, or near record levels,” May said. Outside of the Idaho Food Bank, which is a primarily a wholesale-type entity distributing food to local food pantries, St. Vincent de Paul Southwest Idaho is the largest direct, free-food distribution network in Idaho. “This is possible only through the dedication of hundreds of volunteers, generous community partners and strong individual financial support and food donations,” May said. Because of the home visit program, SVdP has helped thousands of families and individuals avoid homelessness. Home-visit volunteers provide financial aid, primarily for rent and utilities. They also bring thrift store vouchers, referrals for further assistance programs and encouragement, May said. SVdP operates thrift stores throughout the valley and is well-known for its Thanksgiving Box and Christmas Toy Store drives. Re-entry services to help former inmates adjust to life outside prison walls are rapidly growing at SVdP, May said. “The men and women exiting incarceration struggle mightily to reintegrate successfully into the community outside the walls of prison.” The program is a key factor in reducing the likelihood that the men and women helped will return to prison. The re-entry help offered by SVdP begins with pre-release classes at two prisons in the South Boise prison complex, with 80 to 100 men and women in attendance monthly. “These classes cover St. Vincent de Paul and other community services that are available to them upon release, employment and career assistance available before and after release, general information for successful community reintegration, and a large dose of hope to diminish, at least a bit, the anxiety most feel in that moment,” he said. There are also follow-up meetings given to those who attend the classes with the support of Idaho Department of Correction staff, he said. Before an inmate’s release, IDOC case managers coordinate with SVdP to schedule a volunteer or employee who will meet with the person coming out of prison. Some of the services offered returning citizens include access to clothing through thrift stores, food from SVdP food pantries, assistance to acquire a cell phone, bus passes and employment consultation and referrals. They are also provided transportation that ) allows them to register for food stamps and attend meetings with their parole officer. In most instances, the released men and women are provided a temporary home during their transition back into society. About 180 attended the 25th anniversary of the Southwest Idaho council with a “Roaring ‘20’s” theme at the Summerfest Gala at Château des Fleurs in Eagle. (Courtesy photos/Genesis Pittman) St. Vincent de Paul of Southwest Idaho’s re-entry program is now a Federal Apprenticeship Group Sponsor, the only nonprofit in Idaho with this designation, May said. The apprenticeship program offers the chance for a returning citizen to complete an apprenticeship with a private employer. By registering through SVdP, the individual’s progress is tracked and documented through its completion. “This program will benefit not only returning citizens and their families, but also the greater community and our state,” May said. 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.

The following story appeared in the August 11 Idaho Catholic Register. Father John Worster is celebrating Mass at St. Mary’s in Boise, where he was pastor from 2015 until his retirement in June of this year. (Courtesy photos/Father John Worster) By Emily Woodham Staff Writer BOISE – Father John Worster vividly remembers his first day in a Catholic Church. “One afternoon when I was in first grade, Mrs. Alice Miller took me to St. Bonaventure’s Catholic Church. I remember the first time she put my hand in a Holy Water font, and I remember the first time the Sign of the Cross was ever made on me.” He also remembers his baptism. His father, Jack, had moved to Concord, Calif. to start a new life after divorcing Father Worster’s mother who, Father John said, was “a hopeless alcoholic.” Through his new job, Jack met a Catholic couple, Richard and Alice Miller. They asked Jack if he had a religion. When he answered no, they asked if his son had a religion. When he answered no to that, they asked if they could give his son the Catholic faith. “The Millers shared their faith with me. That’s how I became Catholic,” Father Worster said. Alice Miller became like a mother to Father Worster. It’s faithful lay Catholics, like the Millers, that became the favorite part of Father Worster’s 36 years as a priest. “Priests come and go; the faithful lay people are what make our parishes,” Father Worster said. “They have supported me and all our priests over the years, making sure that the doors of our chapels, schools, food banks and parish offices are open.” Father Worster retires this year from St. Mary’s Parish in Boise. Since his 1987 ordination, he has served more than 10 parishes in the Diocese of Boise. He was also a military chaplain for the Idaho National Guard for nearly 29 years, retiring at the rank of colonel in 2019. Although he has been given several honors, including a Bronze Star, he still finds his time with the people of Idaho to be the most rewarding aspect of his priesthood. Loving people is essential to serving as a priest, Father Worster said. “If you’re going to be a priest or Religious in Idaho, you have to know our lay people and be part of a parish family with all the ups and downs and challenges. You have to fall in love with the people.” First Photo, Father Worster, with his father Jack, enjoys one of his favorite pastimes, hunting. Second Photo, Father John is at the ceremony for his retirement from the Idaho National Guard in 2019. He retired at the rank of colonel. Third Photo, Father Worster is ready for anything with one of the students at St. Mary’s Catholic School in Boise. Fourth Photo, Father Worster displays a great catch — a Cutthroat Trout in the Blackfoot River near Soda Springs. (Courtesy photos/Father John Worster) God did not call him out of the difficult circumstances of his early life, he said, “He called me because of that.” When he was 14, his biological mother killed herself. “We leave suicide in the closet, in the dark. We should talk about it,” he said. “After living through tragedy, you either become compassionate and understanding with human beings, or it destroys you. You have that choice.” Father Worster’s dad remarried and then divorced again. His third marriage was to Joan, a Lutheran, and lasted for more than 40 years. Joan died in 2020, not long after she and Jack moved to Boise, where his dad still lives. “Although my dad hasn’t become Catholic, over the years, he’s become understanding and sympathetic to the Catholic faith,” Father Worster said. LOVING PEOPLE is essential to serving as a priest, Father Worster said. “If you’re going to be a priest or Religious in Idaho, you have to know our lay people and be part of a parish family with all the ups and downs and challenges. You have to fall in love with the people.” If a young man were to ask him about becoming a priest, he said he would tell him that he needs to love people before going to seminary. “Don’t propose to be a minister of Jesus Christ if you don’t fall in love with these beautiful people … Don’t go off to a seminary. Don’t go off to a convent. Don’t go off to the North American College in Rome. Don’t go to any place for formation unless you first fall in love with these people.” Father Worster came to this state he loves so much when he enrolled at the University of Idaho to study forest products engineering. The vibrancy at the St. Augustine’s Student Center on the U of I campus drew him deeper into his faith, especially the ministry of the chaplain there, Father Rich Wemhoff. “A bunch of us priests serving in the Diocese of Boise were recruited by Father Rich Wemhoff,” he said. Father Wemhoff eventually became laicized, married and moved to Washington to open a counseling center. However, his ministry at the student center influenced many to choose the priesthood, including Father Ron Wekerle, Father Paul Wander, Father Mike St. Marie and Father Len MacMillan. Participating in programs at St. Augustine’s Student Center, volunteering in ministry and going to daily Mass all contributed to strengthening Father Worster’s faith. But it was honest and direct conversations with leaders at the student center that were most helpful in his discernment, he said. “St. Augustine’s was, and continues to be, a wonderful place for evangelizing, sharing and supporting the faith of our Catholic undergraduates in Moscow.” Father Worster graduated from the University of Idaho in 1977 with a degree in forest products science engineering. He took a year of spiritual discernment, volunteering for three parishes in Lewiston. He also served as youth minister at Lewis-Clark State College. While in Lewiston, he spent time with Father Joseph Schmidt, Monsignor Andy Schumacher, Monsignor Nicholas Hughes and the Jesuits who were managing St. Stanislaus Parish. “They were very instrumental in encouraging my vocation,” he said. What appealed to Father John most about pursuing the priesthood was having the “ability to stand with the people of God and minister with them, to really make a difference in our communities.” After his year of discernment, he enrolled at Mount Angel Seminary in Oregon. He was ordained by Bishop Sylvester Treinen at St. Edward’s Parish in Twin Falls on June 26, 1987. His first assignment was parochial vicar at the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist, where Father Don Riffle was rector. IN JULY OF 1990 , Father Worster was commissioned as an Army chaplain with rank of first lieutenant and began service in the Idaho National Guard as a battalion chaplain in Pocatello. That same year, he was assigned as parochial vicar at Holy Rosary Parish in Idaho Falls. “Learning management, organization, technology and people skills through the Guard enhanced my ability to lead a parish,” he said. His role as a military chaplain, he explained, was analogous to his role as a diocesan priest. “In both cases, we nurture the living, and we honor the fallen. We make sure people have the opportunity for counseling, to worship and to heal.” In 1991, he was assigned as administrator, and a year later as pastor, at St. Mary’s Parish in Soda Springs, which includes missions in Montpellier, Lava Hot Springs, Malad City and Preston. In 1998, he was named pastor at Immaculate Conception Parish in Buhl and St. Catherine’s Parish in Hagerman. In 2001, he returned to St. Mary’s in Soda Springs. In 2004, he was deployed on active duty for Operation Iraqi Freedom. With the rank of major, he served as a brigade chaplain in Kirkuk, Iraq. “Being in a combat trauma center where the wounded are being treated is a little bit different, a little more intense, but it’s not that different from an emergency room or a surgical theater or any of the places that most Catholic priests visit almost daily in their hospital ministry,” he said. Although military chaplains are not armed, even in combat zones, he said, chaplains go out in teams with “people who have your back.” One such person was Master Sergeant James Lewis. “He was a very effective counselor and support to the ministry in Iraq, but he was also a fully trained combat soldier. Many times, he saved my life in Iraq. It’s a very unique and humbling relationship with a brother-in-arms.” Father Worster was awarded the Bronze Star Med-al and Combat Action Badge for his service. However, he does not like being called a hero. “The real heroes are the soldiers who are in harm’s way every day in defense of this nation,” he said. He returned to Idaho in 2005, assigned as administrator and then pastor at St. Bernard’s Parish in Blackfoot and St. Kateri Tekakwitha Parish in Fort Hall. In 2008, he began serving the Idaho National Guard as the Joint Forces Command Senior Supervisory Chaplain, with the rank of colonel. In 2009, he took a year sabbatical for advanced strategic studies and attended the Inter-American Defense College at Fort McNair in Washington, D.C., earning a certificate in hemispheric defense and security. WHEN FATHER WORSTER returned to Idaho, he was named pastor at Holy Spirit Catholic Com-munity in Pocatello, serving there until his 2015 assignment as pastor at St. Mary’s in Boise. At the same time, he continued his service as a chaplain at Mountain Home Air Force Base, retiring from the Army National Guard in 2019, after nearly 29 years of full or part-time military service contexts with people is the most challenging aspect of being a priest, he said. “The most difficult is to go from having coffee with a little old lady, holding her hand and being sensitive to the issues she’s going through, with genuine charity, and then be in a combat trauma center where there’s blood on the floor and people are dying of gunshot wounds. But this is no different from what any other priests go through,” he said. Father Worster continues to enjoy walking with people in whatever circumstances they face. As a retired priest, he wants to be available to continue to help his brother priests and the laity with what-ever needs they have. “I have some family responsibilities to assume now for my father. But, to the greatest extent possible, I want to be available to my brother priests. I want to be available to the great lay leaders in all of our parishes,” he said. He is also looking forward to having more time for his greatest passion other than ministry: hunting and fishing. “I don’t really want to go anywhere,” he said. “I just want to stay here and be close to the great people of Idaho.” 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.

Tuesday, August 1st: · 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM: WYD Preview (Replay: 8:00 PM MDT) · 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM: WYD Opening Mass (Replay: 9:00 PM MDT) Wednesday, August 2nd: · 2:00 AM - 3:00 AM: WYD Special Coverage Intro (Replay:9:00 PM MDT) · 3:00 AM - 4:00 AM: Arrival of the Pope in Lisbon · 4:00 AM - 5:00 AM: Visit of the Pope with the President of Portugal · 5:00 AM - 6:00 AM: Pope Francis’ Meeting with Civil Authorities · 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM: Vespers with Bishops and Priests Thursday, August 3rd: · 2:00 AM - 3:00 AM: Pope Francis’ Meeting with University Students (Replay: 2:30 PM MDT) · 3:30 AM - 4:30 AM: Pope Francis’ Meeting with Young People · 9:30 AM - 12:30 PM: WYD Welcoming Ceremony (Replay: 9:00 PM MDT) Friday, August 4th : · 2:00 AM - 2:30 AM: Sacrament of Confession with Children · 2:30 AM - 3:30 AM: Pope Francis’ Meeting with Charity Centres · 10:30 AM - 1:00 PM: Way of the Cross (Replay: 8:30 PM MDT) Saturday, August 5th: · 2:00 AM – 4:30 AM: Pope Francis in Fatima · 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM: Prayer Vigil (Replay: 8:00 PM MDT) Sunday, August 6th: · 1:00 AM - 5:00 AM: Pope Francis Celebrates Holy Mass from Lisbon (Replay: 3:00 PM MDT) · 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM: Papal Meeting with WYD Volunteers The WYD Lisbon 2023 Special Coverage can be viewed on EWTN via cable tv ; live online on our website (https:/ /w w w.ewtn.com/tv/watch-live) or via the free EWTN app on mobile devices (Android, Apple, Roku, KindleFire). To check our Programming Schedule for any changes: please click here .

The following story appeared in the June 23 Idaho Catholic Register. Recently ordained Deacon Antonio Perez, who is assigned at St. Paul’s Parish in Nampa, arranges chalices on the altar for the Mass of Ordination to the Diaconate. Deacons Eduardo Herrera, assigned at St. Mark’s in Boise; Michael Evaniuck, assigned at St. Paul’s in Nampa; and Vincent Perry, assigned at St. George’s in Post Falls were ordained on June 10 at the Cathedral in Boise with Deacon Perez. (ICR photo/Vero Gutiérrez) By Emily Woodham Staff Writer BOISE – Deacons Eduardo Herrera, Michael Evaniuck, Antonio Perez and Vincent Perry were ordained as deacons by Bishop Peter Christensen on June 10. Two of the four, Deacons Evaniuck and Perez, will serve at St. Paul’s Parish in Nampa. Deacon Herrera is assigned to St. Mark’s in Boise and Deacon Perry will serve at St. George’s in Post Falls. About 500 attended the Mass at the Cathedral in Boise. Bishop Peter used biographical information printed in a previous issue of the Idaho Catholic Register to highlight the commonalities among the four new deacons. All of them were raised Catholic, but three had left the faith while young adults and then returned later in life. The deacons also share connections to the OCIA (Order of Christian Initiation for Adults), as participants returning to the Church and/or as instructors. Bishop Peter also noted each were inspired by others, especially other deacons and their wives, who helped them with their discernment to the diaconate. “All four of you mention the powerful impact your wives have made on the deeper development of your faith and the necessary encouragement they offered to help you to consider the diaconate program,” he said. Bishop Peter quoted from the first Mass reading, Jeremiah1:4-9, and said that the Lord chooses the weak and makes them strong. “If you, my brothers, feel weak and unworthy of the call, know that you are in good hands. The Lord is with you to do marvelous deeds through you in His name,” he said. Just as Christ turned water into wine in His first miracle (John 2:1-11), He transforms the ordinary in our lives. “He will take the seemingly ordinary things of our lives and make them abundantly powerful by His grace working in and through you,” the Bishop said. “Remember it is the Lord who chose you to do this ministry for His Church. He now appoints you to go out and bear fruit in the world, doing so with deep love for others. God will be there to assist you every step of the way. Go forth in the knowledge of His love for you.” “It was a very intimate and strengthening experience that brought me so much grace from the Holy Spirit,” said Deacon Perry. Bishop Peter offered the Mass for Natalie Perry, Deacon Perry’s mother, who died on May 30. “I was amazed, honored and humbled that Bishop Peter offered the Mass for my recently deceased mother,” he said. “It was truly a healing gift for my whole family. I am so grateful for that.” Deacon Perry is a telecommunications switch technician. He has been married to his wife, Amy, since 2003. The couple has three sons and a daughter, ranging in ages 10 to 17. “Always pray and never give up,” he said, referring to Luke 18:1, the preface to the parable of the persistent widow who relentlessly went to the judge with her petitions for justice. “Trust Jesus and place your life in His hands.” Deacon Perry also recommends praying for vocations. “Keep your family involved in the faith as best as you can,” he said. Deacon Perry did not expect the massive outpouring of support from so many people whom he didn’t know. “I am looking forward to bringing the personal love, grace and healing of Jesus to people through service,” he said. Deacon Antonio Perez said he is grateful for everyone who kept him and his fellow deacons in their prayers. “I felt that without their prayers, I wouldn’t have gotten this far.” Deacon Perez is director of parish services at St. Paul’s. He and his wife, Alma, have been married for 17 years. They have five children. “It was a wonderful experience, how we encountered the Holy Spirit through this sacrament,” he said of his ordination. “I felt so blessed that God chose us for this mission in our lives.” Like Deacon Perry, he was surprised by the love and support from every-one at the ordination. He is looking forward to working with his brother deacons at his parish in assisting the community and bringing them closer to the Lord through the sacraments. “What a wonderful gift it is to be able to help with that,” he said. Deacon Mike Evaniuck said he was a little nervous, but has no doubts about the ordination, he said. Deacon Evaniuck works for a cyber security company. He and his wife, Ailen, have been at St. Paul’s since 2016. They have two adult children who live in southern California. “During Bishop Christenson’s laying on of hands, it struck me that I was being linked to all deacons – not only those who were at the Mass, but all deacons, back to St. Stephen himself,” he said. Deacon Evaniuck said he was humbled by the outpouring of love and support from parishioners after his first Mass at St. Paul’s. “Their support drives me to serve them even more. God is doing amazing things, and I am glad to be part of it,” he said. Receiving the Sacrament of Holy Orders was a true blessing, Deacon Herrera said. “The Mass and Cathedral were beautiful. To have experienced this with the support of the Diocese, clergy, family and friends is truly a gift from God. This occasion is life changing, and to able to share those graces with the greater community for God’s glory is special,” he said. Deacon Herrera is a regional sales manager for J.T.M. Foods for the Intermountain and Northwest Region. He and his wife, Stephany, have two young adult children. Two of the most powerful moments of the ordination, he said, were when the deacons-to-be were laying prostrate on the Cathedral floor during the Litany of Saints, and when the Bishop laid his hands on each of the deacons and prayed over them. Another moment was while blessing parishioners after Mass. “I did not expect the sense of authority to manifest itself so quickly,” he said. He is looking forward to serving the Catholic community and to continue to grow closer to Christ, he said. “I hope to serve by proclaiming the Gospel at Mass, working to support Catholic education and internal ministries, essentially allowing the Holy Spirit to work through us to help others enrich their relationship with our Lord.” “I have a profound sense of gratitude for the prayers and support from the faithful,” he said. “As a community we need to continue praying for vocations and supporting our youth to consider the priesthood, diaconate and religious life.” Michael Evaniuck promises to be obedient to Bishop Peter Christensen and to his successors. (ICR photo/Vero Gutiérrez) Bishop Peter says the Prayer of Ordination over the four men. From left are Antonio Perez, Michael Evaniuck, Eduardo Herrera and Vincent Perry. (ICR photo/Vero Gutiérrez) Bishop Peter Christensen celebrated the Mass for Ordination to the Diaconate just two days after ordaining two new priests. (ICR photo/Vero Gutiérrez) Deacons of the Diocese embrace the four newly ordained deacons during the exchange of peace. (ICR photo/Vero Gutiérrez) Deacons Eduardo Herrera, left, and Antonio Perez were overjoyed at their ordination. “I have a profound sense of gratitude for the prayers and support for the faithful,” Deacon Herrera said. “As a community, we need to continue praying for vocations and supporting our youth to consider the priesthood, diaconate and religious life.” (ICR photo/Vero Gutiérrez) From left, Ailen and Deacon Michael Evaniuck, Alma and Deacon Antonio Perez, Amy and Deacon Vincent Perry, Deacon Eduardo and Stephany Herrera with Bishop Peter Christensen are in the lower courtyard of the Cathedral with a statue of St. Teresa of Calcutta. (ICR photos/Vero Gutiérrez) 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.