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Apertura del Jubileo. Con una Misa especial el Obispo Peter Christensen celebró el inicio del Año Jubilar el 29 de diciembre del 2024. (Foto ICR/Vero Gutiérrez ) Vero Gutiérrez Editora Asistente La Catedral de Saint John the Evangelist se prepara para recibir a peregrinos de distintas ciudades que se congregarán en Boise el próximo 20 de septiembre, para vivir una jornada de oración, reconciliación y celebración del Jubileo 2025 Peregrinos de Esperanza, convocado por el Papa Francisco para toda la Iglesia Universal. Aunque aún no se ha determinado cuántas personas acudirán a esta celebración, se espera que lleguen grupos de las diferentes regiones del estado, sobre todo del Valle Mágico y el Valle del Tesoro. Durante el 2025, gracias a que el Papa Francisco nos convocó como Iglesia a celebrar un año especial de gracia dedicado al perdón y la reconciliación, en nuestra diócesis la Catedral de Saint John the Evangelist fue designada por el Obispo Peter Christensen como un lugar santo de peregrinación lo que ha permitido a cientos de peregrinos visitar la catedral para obtener la remisión de sus pecados a través de la indulgencia plenaria. Además de la Catedral otro lugar santo designado por el Obispo es Saint Joseph en Pocatello, donde los fieles pueden acudir durante este año jubilar y conseguir las gracias que se conceden mediante la indulgencia plenaria. Óscar Sánchez, encargado del Ministerio Hispano en la Catedral de Saint John the Evangelist, explicó que todos están invitados, sean o no parroquianos de la Catedral. Se ha hecho una invitación especial a las familias, que pueden acudir como comunidad y ministerios, por lo que se espera una cantidad importante de peregrinos. Hasta ahora, cientos de personas han acudido en grupos o de forma individual a la Catedral para obtener la indulgencia plenaria ofrecida por el Papa durante el Jubileo. Sin embargo, de manera especial la Catedral, a través del Padre Germán Osorio, Rector, y el Padre Tim Segert, Vicario, se ha propuesto ofrecer a los fieles una jornada especial de un día para obtener las gracias del Año Jubilar. Fachada de la Catedral Saint John the Evangelist en Boise, Idaho . (Foto ICR/Vero Gutiérrez ) Las actividades del sábado 20 de septiembre comenzarán a las 6:30 p.m. con las confesiones; a las 7:45 p.m. se celebrará la Santa Misa; a las 8:45 p.m. iniciará la Hora Santa; y a las 9:45 p.m. se ofrecerá café y pan para los asistentes. Esta jornada tiene como propósito ayudar a las personas a unirse en oración por las necesidades individuales, de sus familias y comunidades. Por ello, se ofrecerá una jornada penitencial con la participación de varios sacerdotes, para que más personas tengan la oportunidad de acercarse al sacramento de la Reconciliación. Actualmente, la Catedral de Saint John the Evangelist cuenta con la Cruz del Jubileo, donde se encuentra una reliquia de la Cruz Verdadera. Todos los peregrinos están invitados a pasar un tiempo de veneración de la Cruz, pudiendo tocarla o besarla. La indulgencia plenaria Es un acto de misericordia de parte de Dios, cuando Él concede, de su abundante amor, la reparación por nuestros actos de maldad que nosotros, por nosotros mismos, no podemos ofrecer, librándonos del castigo por algunos o todos nuestros pecados. Una persona que recibe una indulgencia plenaria obtiene la remisión completa del castigo por los pecados cometidos. Una persona que obtiene una indulgencia parcial obtiene una remisión parcial. De acuerdo con el Código de Derecho Canónico (c. 992) y el Catecismo de la Iglesia Católica (n. 1471): “La indulgencia es la remisión ante Dios de la pena temporal por los pecados, ya perdonados en cuanto a la culpa, que un fiel dispuesto y cumpliendo determinadas condiciones consigue por mediación de la Iglesia, la cual, como administradora de la redención, distribuye y aplica con autoridad el tesoro de las satisfa- cciones de Cristo y de los santos”. Importante tomar en cuenta • Se pide de forma especial que las personas lleguen después de las 6:00 p.m., no antes. • Favor de confirmar su asistencia y la cantidad de personas antes del 20 de septiembre. • Se recomienda acudir confesados de preferencia. • Si tiene artículos para bendecir, puede llevarlos. • Si asisten personas con alguna discapacidad, favor de avi- sarlo con anticipación para reservar un lugar especial. Requisitos para obtener la indulgencia plenaria: • Peregrinar a los sitios santos (Catedral de Saint John the Evangelist). • Tener la disposición interior de un desapego total del pecado, incluso venial. • Confesarse antes o durante la peregrinación. • Comulgar antes o durante la peregrinación. • Hacer la Profesión de Fe y orar por las intenciones del Papa. La indulgencia plenaria puede obtenerse diariamente, y en el caso de los fieles que no pueden asistir a las iglesias de- signadas —como los enfermos, los ancianos y los presos—, pueden obtenerla uniéndose espiritualmente y ofreciendo sus sufrimientos. Las indulgencias pueden obtenerse de manera personal o aplicarse por otros si son difuntos. Para confirmar la asistencia o resolver dudas, favor de comunicarse a la oficina de Ministerio Hispano de la Catedral con Óscar Sánchez al teléfono 208-342-3511 ext. 115 o al correo electrónico oscars@boisecathedral.org.

Author and business woman Jenny Hubbard was the guest speaker at the August 2025 Legatus meeting in Boise. (ICR Photo/Philip A. Janquart) By Philip A. Janquart ICR Editor   When Joe Burke moved to Boise from Orange, California, one of the things he missed was his participation in a peer group known as Legatus.   “We were members in Orange County, and when we moved here, there wasn’t a chapter in Boise,” the married father of three told the Idaho Catholic Register at a recent Legatus meeting held at SpurWing Country Club in Meridian. “We loved our chapter in California, so it was a blessing to see one established and chartered here about a year and a half ago.”   Legatus — Latin for “ambassador” — is an international Catholic organization for business leaders. What started with 11 members has grown to 5,000 across about 90 chapters in North America.   Founded in 1987 by Tom Monaghan — best known as the founder of Domino’s Pizza and former owner of the Detroit Tigers — the international network of Catholic executives is dedicated to living out the faith among other CEOs, presidents, managing partners and business owners.   “As corporate executives, most of us know what we have to do, and economic conditions may leave us no choice,” Monaghan said, describing in part why he launched Legatus. “The question then becomes how to do it in the best way, and the moral guidance Legatus offers helps make the tough calls.”   He also said that “success is getting to heaven and taking as many people with you as possible,” which fits with the organization’s overall goal to help business leaders “become better Catholics.”   Monaghan retired after selling Domino’s to Bain Capital in 1998 for about $1 billion. Following the sale, he redirected his time and energy toward philanthropic endeavors, founding Ave Maria College, a Catholic liberal arts school, in Ypsilanti, Michigan, the same year he sold Domino’s. The college ultimately relocated to Naples, Florida, and was renamed Ave Maria University in 2007. Participants of the August Legatus meeting gather for a quick group photo. (Courtesy photo)  Burke, who played a role in founding the Legatus Boise chapter, understands the premise of integrating faith into professional and personal life.   “It's about ... business leaders that have taken on significant responsibilities in business and how they can share and join in fellowship about their journey as Catholics in business,” said Burke, inventor of the Ollyball, a lightweight, colorable play ball that garnered 2019 Toy of the Year, awarded by the U.S.-based national nonprofit trade organization The Toy Association.   “Legatus is a great place of trust and safety,” he said. “We deal with things in our company that I’m not willing to seek advice from just anybody about, especially as a Catholic business owner. There are different challenges that can test your faith, so it’s a great opportunity to join these people and talk about a greater meaning.”   Legatus holds monthly meetings, which begin with a rosary and confession followed by Mass, a reception and then dinner. A guest speaker caps off the evening.   Author and businesswoman Jenny Hubbard was the speaker during the Boise chapter’s Aug. 21 meeting at SpurWing Country Club in Meridian. Her youngest child, 6-year-old Catherine Violet, was a victim in the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting in Newtown, Connecticut, on Dec. 14, 2012.   Hubbard has since become a public voice for healing and hope, speaking about grief, resilience and faith in the aftermath of tragedy.   Hubbard and her family also founded the Catherine Violet Hubbard Animal Sanctuary, based on Catherine’s love of animals. Jenny, a Legatus member, is the sanctuary’s chair and president.   She also spoke about her years in college and how she slowly began to veer away from her faith. She was recruited out of college by a Fortune 10 company in Manhattan, which became the main focal point in her life.   “I followed the flashing paycheck, which turned into a flashy career,” she said, adding that she eventually walked away from it all. “That flashy career took time and attention. I think that happens to a lot of us; sometimes we have a tendency to take our eyes off where we need to be.”   Hubbard said she listens to God now more than ever and uses her experiences to help others.   “God is saying, ‘I hear you; I see you,’ and ‘you are my beloved,’” she said during her talk. “And maybe this is a prayer right now, of me saying to God, ‘Let your words come through me and let your story be told to these people. You know, I think sometimes we should stop and ponder. I love Legatus because nights like this give you opportunities and moments to just ponder.” Father John Mosier, pastor at St. Mark's Parish in Boise, says a prayer at the August Legatus meeting. (ICR Photo/Philip A. Janquart)

A statement from Bishop Peter F. Christensen August 27, 2025 My Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ, Fr. Robert Mendez Esquivel (Fr. Toto) was arraigned in a Canyon County Court this afternoon at 1:30pm and charged with 3 felony counts related to one event transpiring on August 14, 2025. He was assigned a public defender and a preliminary hearing is scheduled for September 11, 2025. Please continue to pray for all of those involved and certainly for the faithful of our Diocese. In Christ’s mercy, Most Reverend Peter F. Christensen, M.A., D.D. Bishop of the Diocese of Boise

A statement from Bishop Peter F. Christensen August 27, 2025 My Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ, With a heavy and sorrowful heart, I share the troubling news, Father Robert (Toto) Mendez, was arrested this afternoon in Nampa, Idaho. It is our understanding that he faces charges of sexual battery of a minor. We are complying with all law enforcement and have removed his priestly faculties, meaning he is prohibited from any priestly ministry.  We don’t know any other details at this time and will respond once we learn more.   I humbly ask for your fervent prayers, for the alleged victim, for the faithful of St. Paul’s community in Nampa and for our entire Diocese as we navigate this painful situation.   In Christ’s mercy, Most Reverend Peter F. Christensen, M.A., D.D. Bishop of the Diocese of Boise

A statement from Bishop Peter F. Christensen August 27, 2025 My Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ, It is with a heart heavy with sorrow and profound grief that I address you today, following the horrific act of violence that has shattered the peace of Annunciation Elementary School in Minneapolis during morning Mass. Our entire diocese, and indeed the wider community, is reeling from the senseless loss of innocent lives and the wounding of many others. The news of this tragedy has pierced us deeply, and our thoughts and prayers are with the victims, their families, and all who have been affected by this unspeakable act. In moments such as these, when darkness seems to overwhelm, we are called to cling to the light of our faith. We recall the words of Saint Paul, “If one member suffers in the body of Christ which is the Church, all the members suffer with that member” (1 Corinthians 12:26). This truth resonates powerfully today, as we collectively bear the pain of those who mourn. Christian consolation is rooted in the hope that comes from faith in the saving death and resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ. While we face the reality of death and the anguish of grief, we trust confidently that the risen Lord has vanquished the power of sin and death.   As your Bishop, I call upon all members of our diocesan family—priests, deacons, religious, and laypersons—to participate in a ministry of consolation despite our distance: to care for the suffering, to pray for the dead and injured, and to comfort those who mourn. Let us offer reassuring words, compassionate embraces, and prayers that strengthen us all. Sometimes, our presence and silent prayers, itself can be a powerful expression of shared suffering and love. My dear brothers and sisters, we know that on our journey through life, we often encounter violence, death, and unspeakable evil, but this does not discourage us or leave us abandoned. Prayer and the collective witness of salvation history teach us to see God’s signs, his presence, and his action, despite the reality of evil and grave injustice. Let us continue to be beacons of light in the midst of darkness empowering us to never tire in spreading Gospel hope and showing that the ultimate victory is God’s. Let us unite ourselves as a family in prayer throughout the Diocese seeking the powerful intercession of St. Michael the Archangel: St. Michael the Archangel, defend us in battle. Be our defense against the wickedness and snares of the Devil. May God rebuke him, we humbly pray, and do thou, O Prince of the heavenly hosts, by the power of God, thrust into hell Satan, and all the evil spirits, who prowl about the world seeking the ruin of souls. Amen. May the tender mercy and compassion of our God guide our feet into the path of peace (cf. Lk 1:78-79). With heartfelt prayers and blessings, Most Reverend Peter F. Christensen, M.A., D.D. Bishop of the Diocese of Boise

Jason Chavez of King David’s Men boxing teaches Luke Maksen, 10, how to spar. Chavez created the program to build fraternity and virtue among boys. (Photo/Lisa Ormond) By Lisa Ormond For the ICR Jason Chavez decided it was time to take the gloves off — though bringing boys and men back to basics really meant putting them on. In a world where the current culture often confuses gender and, at times, shames masculinity, the St. Thomas the Apostle parishioner decided he would utilize his boxing skills and knowledge of the sport to restore a sense of Catholic male identity and camaraderie. Last May, he launched King David’s Men boxing, a unique 10-week program for boys ages 9 to 11. The free class, held at OPEX CDA gym in Coeur d’Alene, recently concluded with an afternoon of sweaty and intense, but fun-filled sparring. Each participant, cheered on by family and friends, stepped into the ring for three two-minute rounds. The program aims to form men, fathers and sons in masculinity, brotherhood and spiritual virtue, as well as strength in preparation for life’s challenges. A dozen Catholic boys attended and over 90% completed the program. Chavez, the founder of the Catholic non-profit Communio CDA, is the father of a young son. He decided “it was time” to take the gloves off and offer the Christ-centered boxing course to his community. “We need to teach boys to be constructive, or they will be destructive,” Chavez said. “Forming virtuous, masculine brotherhoods through boxing helps young men and fathers unite in faith and muscle.” St. Pius X Deputy Grand Knight and volunteer boxing coach Phil Hostak agreed. “Jason is teaching them to discipline the flesh,” he said. “If you learn that, you polish the soul.” A challenge for males According to Chavez, today’s culture gives young Aiden Kirschner, 9, demonstrates the correct boxing stance.  (Photo/Lisa Ormond) men a confusing message about their identity. Mark Griswold, a father of three young sons, couldn’t agree more. He and son James, 11, were participants in the one-of-a-kind boxing program. “Under the guise of a war on ‘toxic masculinity,’ which does exist but has been overblown and mischaracterized, the rites of passage that used to help create men out of boys have been stripped away,” he said. Brotherhood builder Forged from Chavez’s passion for God, heart for service and desire to build fraternity among males of all ages, he named the program King David’s Men boxing after David, the Old Testament biblical character renowned for his courage and faith. “Through boxing, the boys learn discipline, courage and self-mastery so they can rise up and become men who serve, sacrifice and lead with strength,” said Chavez, who also serves as the Campus Minister at Holy Family Catholic School in Coeur d’ Alene. Believing deeply in the importance of his boxing ministry, Chavez set out to build a program for young boys and their fathers with other Christian men, mentors who share a passion for boxing and God. “I wanted to offer a masculine space where boys could learn how to take a punch,” Chavez said. Generosity and support key He needed support, however, to fuel his mission, and the Catholic community came to his corner. A critical partner was OPEX CDA gym owned by Christians Brandon and Katie Burchfield who provided the facility at no cost. Hostak, 74, offered his time, mentorship Above, volunteer coaches and mentors, left to right, John Nolan, Phil Hostak and Jason Chavez of King David’s Men boxing. (Photo/Lisa Ormond) and the funds needed to buy the required boxing equipment. “I knew how to throw a left hook before I knew how to throw a baseball,” joked Hostak, a lifelong Catholic, who, after college, considered boxing professionally. His father Al was a world middleweight champion at 22 and a World Boxing Hall of Fame inductee in 1997. “I kind of look at this class as a movement, similar to the Crusades back in the day, to help instill discipline and to help these boys grow into young men with their Catholic principles intact,” he said. Hostak encouraged his Catholic friend John Nolan to join him in the gym. Nolan boxed competitively in college for four years and was “very glad” to share his knowledge with the group and the boys. “When I trained in boxing, I developed many close friendships and learned patience and self-discipline,” Nolan said. “I know positive changes will happen for the boys who take part in this sport.” Hostak agreed with Nolan about the value of the sport. “Boxing is a great foundation for life, especially for young boys, whom we can help grow up to be solid men and leaders,” he said. Jason Chavez steadies the heavy bag as he instructs Braxton Lange on how to throw a punch. Students not only learned how to box, but were also set on a path to being confident, disciplined and faithful Catholic men. (Courtesy photo) Program snapshot Chavez’s weekly class is 90 minutes and includes opening and closing prayer, a 10-minute talk about virtues and values, followed by a warm-up run, stretch and boxing training. “At the beginning he’d say, ‘Do I have to go?’” said Billy Maksen of Rathdrum, father of 10-year-old son Luke who has complete hearing loss caused by Usher Syndrome and wears Cochlear implants. “It was hard to get him here, but after he landed at the gym, he was happy.” Maksen said part of the joy upon arriving was that all his school friends were boxing too—a reason many others commonly shared for being there. “I wanted to see my friends over the summer and punch people,” said Aiden Kirschner, 9. “I thought it would be fun to learn more skills—new punches and new techniques.” It was Aiden’s first go-round at boxing, his dad Kyle calling him a ‘karate dude’ based on his choice of sports. “I enjoyed watching my son battle and respond to adversity with this tough physical challenge,” Kyle said. Layered levels of instruction Basic boxing fundamentals such as footwork, on-guard stance and throwing a punch were taught in the first lessons. Techniques like punch combinations, hooks, uppercuts and punch locations were covered next. The boys then applied those skills to shadow boxing before shifting to live sparring with trainers and fellow classmates toward the end of the course. “I learned to protect myself,” said Chavez’s son Kohanim, 9. “I had a good time with my dad, and he was one of the best trainers.” Thumbs up from moms “We wanted our son to have a chance to try this; to not only understand himself and stick up for himself, but also to know how, if he needed, to stand up for others and have the confidence to do so,” said Rachel Anderson of her son, Jude. “Being around other Catholic boys and men leaders is 100% a good environment to teach these types of skills. Jude does like it, even though he got a bloody nose from that last round of sparring,” she smiled. Above, volunteer coaches and mentors, left to right, John Nolan, Phil Hostak and Jason Chavez of King David’s Men boxing. Below, left to right, Jude Anderson, Luke Maksen, Rocket Darrow, Kohanim Chavez, Aiden Kirschner and Wyatt Michael break for a photo during the free 10-week program. (Photo/Lisa Ormond) For Coeur d’Alene mom Kara Michael, the fact that her son Wyatt, 10, had the chance to participate at all was a blessing from God. She shared that her husband, Jed, died unexpectedly of a heart attack in January. “Jed would have been doing this with Wyatt,” she said with tears in her eyes, adding that Chavez and Jed were friends and that Chavez made sure Wyatt always felt welcomed. “I wanted Wyatt to know how to be strong—a man and a leader who loves God,” Anderson said. “It’s been an incredible community.” Wyatt talked about his recent sparring round with Chavez in the ring. “I’m tired,” he said with a face flushed with exertion. “But it’s fun. You get to punch people.” Crosses not trophies After the 10-week program, the boys didn’t get trophies. Instead, they celebrated with a pool party and each received a cross—a spiritual piece of armor—to carry on their journey, courtesy of 68-year-old St. Thomas the Apostle parishioner and Knight Paul Grayhek. “All the kids took one and quite a few of the parents also,” he said. “There were about 35 different crosses and crucifixes.” And Grayhek’s message to the boys? “To wear them outwardly and proudly,” he said. “Christians, along with Jesus, have been shoved into the closet,” he lamented. “It’s time for Christians to proclaim their faith.” A ministry movement in need of a home Chavez hopes the boxing seed he has planted will take root and lead to more partners, donors and, ultimately, more classes for boys and men. “The need is great for Christ-centered, brotherhood boxing,” he said. He is currently seeking permanent space somewhere in the Coeur d’Alene area to grow his boxing ministry. “This isn’t just a sport. It’s a formation ground for the next generation of fathers, husbands and saints,” Chavez said. “In a world that says, ‘do what feels good,’ these boys learn to stand for what’s right. Please pray for our boys and their fathers.”

At left, Shea Dinning feeds a girl at the Bethlehem Home in Jamaica, where a group of young adults from North Idaho volunteered for the Missionaries of the Poor. (Photo/Debbie Chicane) Editor’s note: Debbie Chicane, a former recipient of the Diocese of Boise’s Guardian Award, recently traveled with young adults from St. Mary’s Parish in Cottonwood, Idaho, to volunteer with the Missionaries of the Poor. She chronicles the trip in her letter below. By Debbie Chicane For the ICR Two years ago, our group of young adults from St. Mary’s Parish in Cottonwood, Idaho, began planning our second trip to Jamaica to work with Missionaries of the Poor, a Roman Catholic monastic religious institute devoted to serving the elderly, mentally or physically challenged, homeless, orphaned, abandoned and dying. In these two years, we hosted several fundraisers to support our 2025 mission trip. These fundraisers consisted of a spaghetti dinner with a gun auction, Debbie Chicane (Courtesy photo) homemade cinnamon roll delivery, a Jamaican dinner, silent auction and T-shirt sales. Along with our fundraiser and some generous donations, we reached our $11,000 goal. Each team member donated time, effort and energy in making this opportunity happen. On May 11, two groups gathered — one at Spokane Airport and the other at Boise Airport. Our journey had begun! The Spokane group consisted of Caleb Frei, Kyle Frei, Alex McElroy, Shae Dinning, Hope Schwartz and me, Debbie Chicane. The Boise group was comprised of Leah Higgins, Laney Forsmann, Tara Schlader and Kristin Wemhoff. We came together at the Dallas airport to begin our mission adventure as a team. Upon arriving in Jamaica, our hearts were burning with excitement. Five of our team members knew the joys that awaited them due to their experience following the 2023 mission trip. The others were filled with great anticipation of what the next nine days would hold. Several brothers and our dear friend Father Max greeted us. We all felt welcome as suitcases were loaded and conversations began. I told all present, “Yes, I am finally home!” Young adults from North Idaho traveled to Jamaica to serve with the Missionaries of the Poor, a Roman Catholic monastic organization devoted to serving the elderly, mentally and physically challenged, the homeless and poor. Front, left to right, Debbie Chicane and Alex McElroy. Middle row: Kristin Wemhoff, Leah Higgins, Kyle Frei, Tara Schlader, Hope Schwartz, Laney Forsmann and Shae Dinning. Back row: Caleb Fei, James Parmatier. (Photo/Debbie Chicane) The first morning began at 6 a.m. with the chiming of a bell that reminded us that Mass would start in 15 minutes. We were all sleepy from the long journey and lack of sleep, but we made our way to the chapel. As we entered, the melodious sound of the brothers singing made us all take pause. The chapel rang with the glory of God as each note was sung and words were proclaimed with authority and boldness. We had the opportunity to experience this awakening of God through music each day, before lunch, dinner and at the end of the day. Each time we were able to engage with the community in prayer, our hearts became new, and a sense of God’s presence became tangible. It was like a refreshing rain being poured upon us every day. Every morning, after breakfast, we would receive our assignments for the day. We were split into two groups, each sent to a different home where various needs had to be addressed. The homes consisted of elderly and disabled women and men and kids of all ages with special needs. There was also a mountain home where older boys with disabilities and special needs lived. The names of the homes the brothers run are Bethlehem, Lord’s Place, Good Shepherd and Faith Center. The sisters run the girls’ homes, called Holy Innocence and Jacob’s Well, and finally, the mountain home is called the Beatitude Home. We were given the privilege to visit each of these homes during our stay. The jobs or opportunities to serve included bathing, diapering, showering, visiting, feeding, playing, singing, powdering, dressing, clipping nails, painting nails, preparing food, hanging laundry, folding laundry, cooking, dancing, sanding, painting, doing dishes and sweeping. We were there to be present to the needs in front of us, get ourselves out of the way and do whatever was required. Each day began early and went late. Leah Higgins stated that “The days are long and tiring, yet rewarding and fulfilling.” I couldn’t agree more. At the end of each day, your body is tired, but your heart is overflowing. The growth and perspective that comes with serving is felt at a deep level. You always think that you have so much to give to another in an opportunity like mission work until you realize how another’s presence has changed you. Laney (Forsmann) reinforced this concept when she said, “I think the people I was surrounded with gave me more than I gave them. Two specific residents touched my heart the most, Jesse and Sydney. They simply shared their stories and danced with me; that’s it!” Caleb added, “I learned that living a simple life is the key to happiness and not taking anything for granted. Watching the homeless and disabled still be so grateful and loving toward each other and toward life taught me how to be happy!” The brothers, priests and sisters at Missionaries of the Poor evoke a joy that can only be found through God. Leah stated, “The brothers and priest are so Christlike. This work we do is for a week or so, but the work they do is each and every day, with a smile on their faces and no complaints. This community gives their lives up to serve the needs of others, pure and simple! Matthew 25:35 states, ‘For I was hungry, and you gave me food, thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger, and you welcomed me!’” Hope Schwartz assists a boy with special needs at the Bethlehem Home.  (Photo/Tara Schlader) These men and women dedicate their very selves to change a hurting world through love, joy and kindness. Our time with the brothers was extraordinary. The balance between work, prayer and play is a key to create the solid ground from which these men walk. After dinner, we were given the opportunity to engage in card and board games. We even ventured to the roof after a long day to engage in fellowship and meaningful conversation. These men became our brothers as we grew to understand their stories and hear their witness of sacrificial love. On special nights, we even engaged in very competitive games of volleyball, in which, to their dismay, we held our own. A special trip to the ocean topped off our weekend as laughter and play filled the air. Whether at work or play, we received blessing after blessing from our time with our dear brothers. During our time in Jamaica, we were privileged to meet the founder of Missionaries of the Poor, Father Richard Ho Lung. He shared with us that he started the mission on July 19, 1981, and there are currently 11 other Missions of the Poor worldwide. His gentle heart and love for the poor was evident as each word of love and kindness was spoken. We all enjoyed this special time with Father Ho Lung and were able to purchase his books so we could learn more about his story. What an honor it was to spend time and learn from a man who said “yes” to all that God asked him to be and do. As our days came to a close, we shed many tears and said our goodbyes, but mostly shared what we learned. Tara Schlader commented, “My biggest takeaway from these trips is that here in America, we are too caught up in the materialistic life. We are always seeking ‘bigger, newer’ things, thinking these will bring us joy. However, the happiest I have ever been is in Jamaica, serving the poor, away from my phone and the fast-paced American life.” Laney Forsmann added, “I learned that it’s important to share the love the Lord has given you with everyone the Lord has graciously put in your life, even if they are complete strangers.”Caleb (Frei) said, “I will definitely be going back!” Finally, Leah summed it up by saying, “It’s hard to leave a place where you feel God’s presence in everyone you meet and everywhere you go.” This trip has been life-changing for us all, and we pray that what we have learned, we will successfully bring to our families and communities and answer the call to be a light to all those around us, no matter who they are or where they are from. If you have any questions about how to make donations to Missionaries of the Poor or about organizing your own mission trip, contact Debbie at 208-553-5837 or email me at debbie16.dc@gmail.com. May your heart be filled with the simple love that can change the world.

• Idaho loses three priests; 14 more could be lost due to 2023 ‘reinterpretation’ of federal immigration law • More political sponsorship, support needed for proposed legislation aimed at providing a ‘fix’ Many religious workers across the nation, including Catholic priests, are in danger of losing their legal status and being forced to leave the country. (Image created using AI) By Philip A. Janquart ICR Editor A “reinterpretation” of federal law governing visas for religious workers could force 14 more Catholic priests in Idaho to leave the country. The prior of the Verbum Spei community at the Monastery of Our Lady of Ephesus in Boise became the first Catholic priest in Idaho to be affected by the massive backlog of R-1 religious worker visa applicants seeking permanent residency. The R-1 visa allowed the prior to stay in the country while working toward obtaining his green card, or permanent residency card. Yet because of the backlog, he could not obtain one within the five-year limit and was forced to leave the U.S. in January 2025. Another priest of the same community was forced to leave Aug. 15. In November, the Diocese of Boise will lose its first parish priest, bringing the number of priests forced to leave Idaho to three, with 14 more at risk. All three priests requested that their names be witheld. “In the near future, a group of our priests will all be hit at once because they came here at about the same time,” Gayle Batt, a former Idaho House member (2011–2016) who is working with a state delegation on the issue, told the Idaho Catholic Register (ICR). “So far, we have lost three, and next year (2026) we stand to lose eight diocesan priests, in a period of 12 months.” There is, however, light at the end of the tunnel, giving hope to foreign-born priests and the communities they serve. Possible solution? Idaho U.S. Sens. James Risch and Mike Crapo have sponsored bipartisan legislation intended to remedy religious worker visa (R-1) issues that have already had devastating effects on foreign-born religious workers across the nation. Both chambers of Congress have introduced versions of a proposed measure that would allow foreign-born workers to request from the secretary of Homeland Security an extension of their R-1 visa status while waiting for completion of the green card process. The bills, H.R. 2672 in the House and S. 1298 in the Senate, were introduced in April 2025 during the 119th Congress and contain key provisions of the proposed Religious Workforce Protection Act (RWPA), which aims to address challenges facing the Religious Worker Sen. James Risch Visa Program (RWVP). The goal is to ensure that religious workers can continue serving their communities without interruption, in line with the RWVP as intended by Congress when it was created in 1990. Risch, a Catholic, is the originating sponsor of S. 1298. Sens. Susan Collins, R-Maine, and Tim Kaine, D-Va., are co-sponsors. Risch told the ICR in an Aug. 19 email that he is committed to finding a solution that would allow religious workers nationwide to continue serving in their current roles. “For years, I have heard from Idahoans concerned about the loss of their local priests, bishops and other foreign-born faith leaders caused by a visa processing backlog,” he wrote. “These individuals lawfully entered our country and have become vital members in our communities. These religious workers and their congregations should not be penalized for bureaucratic delays beyond their control. The Religious Workforce Protection Act offers a common-sense fix to address this issue, and I remain committed to working with my fellow senators to ensure our dedicated religious workers continue to serve in Idaho and across the U.S.” In an April 8, 2025 news release from Sen. Risch’s office, Idaho Bishop Peter F. Christensen commended Risch and his fellow co-sponsors for their efforts and gave a perspective on the potential effects on the Catholic Church in Idaho if the issue is not resolved. “Despite the vast territory and increasing membership, our diocese is served by only 79 priests,” he said. “If the current R-1 visa procedures remain in effect, our diocese will face severe hardship when foreign-born priests are required to leave the country for at least one year or more.” Call to action Foreign-born priests comprise 22% of the 79 active priests in Idaho.They come from Kenya, Nigeria, Tanzania, Costa Rica, Guatemala, Mexico, Colombia, India, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, France, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland and New Zealand. According to the 2022 National Study of Catholic Priests conducted by The Catholic University of American’s Catholic Project, 24% of Catholic priests in the U.S. are foreign-born. On April 10, 2025, Archbishop Timothy P. Broglio, president of the U.S. Conference Sen. Mike Crapo of Catholic Bishops and head of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, and Bishop Mark J. Seitz, chairman of the USCCB’s Committee on Migration, sent a joint letter to Congress urging support for the proposed measure. “We write on behalf of the USCCB to express our strong support for the Religious Workforce Protection Act …, which was recently introduced on a bipartisan basis,” the letter stated. “We urge you to join with your colleagues in co-sponsoring this vital measure and to work toward its immediate passage, thereby furthering the free exercise of religion in our country for the benefit of all Americans.” Batt, a Catholic who has been working on behalf of the Diocese of Boise, urges Catholics in Idaho to contact the offices of Congressmen Russ Fulcher and Mike Simpson, asking them to consider co-sponsoring the legislation. You can contact Fulcher by calling (202) 225-6611, emailing fulcher.house.gov/contact, or writing to 1514 Longworth House Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20515-1201. Contact Simpson by calling (202) 225-5531, emailing house.gov/contact, or writing to 2084 Rayburn HOB, Washington, D.C. 20515. Where it all went wrong The problem with R-1 visas began in March 2023, in the last year of the Biden administration, when the U.S. State Department merged religious worker (EB-4) applicants into the broader “all other” immigration queue while keeping in place the R-1 visa cap of five years. The department’s move has created massive backlogs of EB-4 applicants, meaning many R-1 visa holders nearing their five-year maximum, and who could not obtain permanent residency during that time, are in danger of losing their legal status and being forced to leave the country. Once required to leave the country, R-1 visa holders must remain abroad for 12 months before returning, when a new five-year limit begins. Some Catholics in the Diocese of Boise question the State Department’s 2023 merging of categories, specifically why it did not have the foresight to establish a separate visa category for religious workers to safeguard their status and prevent multi-year delays in obtaining green cards. The rule poses challenges for Catholic parishes nationwide that depend on international priests to fill gaps left by declining vocations and a persistent clergy shortage. For Batt, she first became aware of the problem while assisting the prior at Our Lady of Ephesus with what initially appeared to be a standard visa issue. “Two years ago, I reached out to Sen. Risch’s staff for assistance with what I thought was a routine visa issue for a priest,” she told the ICR. “After in-depth research by a capable and dedicated staffer, they discovered a recent ‘reinterpretation’ of a rule under the Biden administration that impacted the visa category that includes foreign-born religious.” Coordination began immediately with Risch’s D.C. office, the USCCB, Diocese of Boise immigration attorney Chris Christensen and Batt, on behalf of the Diocese of Boise, seeking relief from both the administrative and legislative branches of the federal government. Batt praised Risch for helping develop a potential solution before other Idaho priests, many in small communities, are affected. “We are so blessed to have Idaho Sen. Risch as an originating sponsor, as well as Idaho Sen. Mike Crapo as a sponsor of S. 1298 to get such relief,” she said. “Sen. Risch has been working diligently for two years on this issue.” She added: “I covet your prayers for the good senator and his staff who have demonstrated the virtue of perseverance these past two years, for the holy religious who are walking in faith and trusting the Lord with a very unknown future and, finally, for Bishop Peter who has the looming challenge of administering a diocese with 22% fewer priests over the next four years if this issue is not resolved.”

Por Philip A. Janquart Editor del ICR   Una «reinterpretación» de la ley federal que regula los visados para trabajadores religiosos podría obligar a otros 14 sacerdotes católicos de Idaho a abandonar el país. El superior de la comunidad Verbum Spei del Monasterio de Nuestra Señora de Éfeso en Boise se convirtió en el primer sacerdote católico de Idaho afectado por la enorme acumulación de solicitudes de visados R-1 para trabajadores religiosos que solicitan la residencia permanente. El visado R-1 permitía al prior permanecer en el país mientras tramitaba su tarjeta de residencia permanente. Sin embargo, debido al retraso, no pudo obtenerla en el plazo de cinco años y se vio obligado a abandonar los Estados Unidos en enero de 2025. Otro sacerdote de la misma comunidad se vio obligado a marcharse el 15 de agosto. En noviembre, la diócesis de Boise perderá a su primer párroco, lo que elevará a tres el número de sacerdotes obligados a abandonar Idaho, con otros 14 en riesgo. Los tres sacerdotes solicitaron que no se revelaran sus nombres. “En un futuro próximo, un grupo de nuestros sacerdotes se verá afectado al mismo tiempo porque llegaron aquí más o menos al mismo tiempo”, declaró Gayle Batt, exmiembro de la Cámara de Representantes de Idaho (2011-2016) que está trabajando con una delegación estatal sobre este tema, al Idaho Catholic Register (ICR). “Hasta ahora hemos perdido a tres y el año que viene (2026) perderemos a ocho sacerdotes diocesanos en un periodo de 12 meses”. Sin embargo, hay luz al final del túnel, lo que da esperanza a los sacerdotes nacidos en el extranjero y a las comunidades a las que sirven. Senador James Risch ¿Una posible solución? Los senadores estadounidenses por Idaho James Risch y Mike Crapo han patrocinado una legislación bipartidista destinada a remediar los problemas relacionados con los visados para trabajadores religiosos (R-1) que ya han tenido efectos devastadores en los trabajadores religiosos extranjeros en todo el país. Ambas cámaras del Congreso han presentado versiones de una medida propuesta que permitiría a los trabajadores nacidos en el extranjero solicitar al secretario de Seguridad Nacional una prórroga de su visado R-1 mientras esperan la finalización del proceso de obtención de la tarjeta de residencia. Senador Mike Crapo Los proyectos de ley, H.R. 2672 en la Cámara de Representantes y S. 1298 en el Senado, se presentaron en abril de 2025 durante el 119º Congreso y contienen disposiciones clave de la propuesta de Ley de Protección de la Fuerza Laboral Religiosa (RWPA), cuyo objetivo es abordar los retos a los que se enfrenta el Programa de Visados para Trabajadores Religiosos (RWVP). El objetivo es garantizar que los trabajadores religiosos puedan seguir prestando servicio a sus comunidades sin interrupción, en consonancia con el RWVP tal y como lo concibió el Congreso cuando lo creó en 1990. Risch, católico, es el patrocinador original del S. 1298. Los senadores Susan Collins, republicana por Maine, y Tim Kaine, demócrata por Virginia, son copatrocinadores. Risch declaró al ICR en un correo electrónico del 19 de agosto que se compromete a encontrar una solución que permita a los trabajadores religiosos de todo el país seguir desempeñando sus funciones actuales. “Durante años, he escuchado a los habitantes de Idaho preocupados por la pérdida de sus sacerdotes locales, obispos y otros líderes religiosos nacidos en el extranjero debido al retraso en la tramitación de visados”, escribió. “Estas personas entraron legalmente en nuestro país y se han convertido en miembros vitales de nuestras comunidades. Estos trabajadores religiosos y sus congregaciones no deberían ser penalizados por retrasos burocráticos que escapan a su control. La Ley de Protección de la Fuerza Laboral Religiosa ofrece una solución sensata para abordar esta cuestión, y sigo comprometido a trabajar con mis compañeros senadores para garantizar que nuestros dedicados trabajadores religiosos sigan prestando servicio en Idaho y en todo Estados Unidos”. En un comunicado de prensa del 8 de abril de 2025 de la oficina del senador Risch, el obispo de Idaho Peter F. Christensen elogió a Risch y a sus compañeros copatrocinadores por sus esfuerzos y ofreció una perspectiva sobre los posibles efectos en la Iglesia católica de Idaho si no se resuelve el problema. “A pesar del vasto territorio y del aumento del número de fieles, nuestra diócesis solo cuenta con 79 sacerdotes”, afirmó, “si se mantienen los actuales procedimientos para la obtención del visado R-1, nuestra diócesis se enfrentará a graves dificultades cuando los sacerdotes nacidos en el extranjero se vean obligados a abandonar el país durante al menos un año o más”.      Llamada a la acción Los sacerdotes nacidos en el extranjero representan el 22 % de los 79 sacerdotes en activo en Idaho. Proceden de Kenia, Nigeria, Tanzania, Costa Rica, Guatemala, México, Colombia, India, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Francia, Italia, Países Bajos, Polonia y Nueva Zelanda. Según el Estudio Nacional de Sacerdotes Católicos de 2022 realizado por el Proyecto Católico de la Universidad Católica de América, el 24 % de los sacerdotes católicos de Estados Unidos son extranjeros. El 10 de abril de 2025, el arzobispo Timothy P. Broglio, presidente de la Conferencia de Obispos Católicos de Estados Unidos y jefe de la Arquidiócesis para los Servicios Militares de Estados Unidos, y el obispo Mark J. Seitz, presidente del Comité de Migración de la USCCB, enviaron una carta conjunta al Congreso instando a apoyar la medida propuesta. “Escribimos en nombre de la USCCB para expresar nuestro firme apoyo a la Ley de Protección de la Fuerza Laboral Religiosa..., que se presentó recientemente con el apoyo de ambos partidos”, decía la carta. “Les exhortamos a que se unan a sus colegas para copatrocinar esta medida vital y a que trabajen para su aprobación inmediata, promoviendo así el libre ejercicio de la religión en nuestro país en beneficio de todos los estadounidenses”. Batt, es una católica que ha estado trabajando en nombre de la Diócesis de Boise, e insta a los católicos de Idaho a ponerse en contacto con las oficinas de los congresistas Russ Fulcher y Mike Simpson para pedirles que consideren copatrocinar la legislación. Puede ponerse en contacto con Fulcher llamando al (202) 225-6611, enviando un correo electrónico a fulcher.house.gov/contact o escribiendo a 1514 Longworth House Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20515-1201. Puede ponerse en contacto con Simpson llamando al (202) 225-5531, enviando un correo electrónico a house.gov/contact o escribiendo a 2084 Rayburn HOB, Washington, D.C. 20515.   Dónde se complicó todo El problema con los visados R-1 comenzó en marzo de 2023, en el último año de la administración Biden, cuando el Departamento de Estado de EE. UU. fusionó a los solicitantes de visados para trabajadores religiosos (EB-4) con la cola de inmigración más amplia «todos los demás», manteniendo al mismo tiempo el límite de cinco años para los visados R-1. La medida del departamento ha creado un enorme retraso en las solicitudes EB-4, lo que significa que muchos titulares de visados R-1 que se acercan a su máximo de cinco años y que no han podido obtener la residencia permanente durante ese tiempo corren el riesgo de perder su estatus legal y verse obligados a abandonar el país. Una vez que se les exige abandonar el país, los titulares de visados R-1 deben permanecer en el extranjero durante 12 meses antes de regresar, momento en el que comienza un nuevo plazo de cinco años. Algunos católicos de la diócesis de Boise cuestionan la fusión de categorías que el Departamento de Estado llevara a cabo en 2023, concretamente por qué no tuvo la previsión de establecer una categoría de visado separada para los trabajadores religiosos con el fin de salvaguardar su estatus y evitar retrasos de varios años en la obtención de la tarjeta de residencia. La norma plantea dificultades a las parroquias católicas de todo el país que dependen de sacerdotes internacionales para cubrir las vacantes dejadas por el descenso de las vocaciones y la persistente escasez de clérigos. Batt se dio cuenta del problema por primera vez cuando ayudaba al prior de Nuestra Señora de Éfeso con lo que en un principio parecía ser un problema habitual con el visado. “Hace dos años, me puse en contacto con el personal del senador Risch para que me ayudaran con lo que yo creía que era un problema rutinario de visado para un sacerdote”, explicó al ICR. “Tras una investigación en profundidad por parte de un miembro del personal competente y dedicado, descubrieron una reciente “reinterpretación” de una norma bajo la administración Biden que afectaba a la categoría de visado que incluye a los religiosos nacidos en el extranjero”. Se inició inmediatamente la coordinación con la oficina de Risch en Washington D. C., la USCCB, el abogado de inmigración de la diócesis de Boise, Chris Christensen, y Batt, en nombre de la diócesis de Boise, para solicitar ayuda tanto al poder ejecutivo como al legislativo del Gobierno federal. Batt elogió a Risch por ayudar a desarrollar una posible solución antes de que otros sacerdotes de Idaho, muchos de ellos en comunidades pequeñas, se vean afectados. “Somos muy afortunados de contar con el senador Risch de Idaho como patrocinador original, así como con el senador Mike Crapo de Idaho como patrocinador del proyecto de ley S. 1298 para obtener tal alivio”, dijo. “El senador Risch ha estado trabajando diligentemente durante dos años en este tema”. Añadió: “Les pido sus oraciones por el buen senador y su equipo, que han demostrado la virtud de la perseverancia durante estos dos últimos años; por los religiosos que caminan en la fe y confían en el Señor ante un futuro muy incierto; y, por último, por el obispo Peter, que se enfrenta al reto inminente de administrar una diócesis con un 22 % menos de sacerdotes durante los próximos cuatro años si este asunto no se resuelve”.

Geovany Emanuel González,Sergio Armando Rodríguez,César Álvarez, Luis Miguel Ferrusquilla, José Luis Sánchez, Carlos Elías, Rogelio Flores, son los siete jóvenes del Seminario de los MSP en el Monasterio de la Ascensión que renovaron sus votos . (Foto ICR/ Vero Gutiérrez) Por Vero Gutiérrez Editora Asistente Mountain Home.– En una celebración llena de alegría y fe, con la presencia de la comunidad parroquial de Our Lady of the Good Counsel, el pasado 9 de agosto siete jóvenes renovaron sus votos de pobreza, castidad y obediencia, continuando así su camino de formación hacia el sacerdocio en la congregación de los Misioneros Servidores de la Palabra, en el seminario del Monasterio de la Ascensión en Jerome, Idaho. Durante la celebración, cada uno firmó la carta de compromiso que los vincula por un año más a esta entrega total a Dios, en espera de la renovación definitiva que tendrá lugar al concluir los cuatro años de formación teológica. Los seminaristas Rogelio Flores y Sergio Armando Rodrígez, firmando sus cartas de renovación en el altar, durante la celebración . (Foto ICR/ Vero Gutiérrez) Cuatro de ellos, que ya completaron la etapa de Filosofía, inician ahora el periodo de cuatro años de estudios en Teología. La Misa fue presidida por el Padre Abraham Ávila, MSP, superior de la orden en Idaho, y concelebrada por el Padre Moisés Urzúa, MSP, párroco de Our Lady of the Good Counsel, y el Padre Jesús Cruz Hernández, MSP. También participó el recién ordenado diácono permanente Allen Darrow. Padre Abraham Ávila MSP , durante la celebración Eucarística con el Padre Moisés Urzúa MSP, asistidos por el diácono Allen Darrow. En su homilía, el Padre Abraham recordó la importancia de cada uno de los votos religiosos y explicó las diferencias entre el amor esponsal, propio del matrimonio, y el amor filial de la familia. En la vida religiosa –dijo– el amor no es exclusivo ni limitado, sino que se ofrece de manera abierta a toda la humanidad, sin fronteras de país, raza o cultura, porque todos somos hijos de Dios. “En la vida consagrada –expresó– no se puede tener un amor selectivo, como el de los esposos que se eligen mutuamente de manera exclusiva. El amor del consagrado está dispuesto a entregarse a cualquier persona que encuentre en su camino, con gratuidad, sin esperar nada a cambio y aun con el riesgo de ser incomprendido o traicionado.” El Padre Abraham subrayó que este amor, como en el matrimonio y la familia, se sos-tiene únicamente en Dios, quien es la fuente de todo amor. “La vida del misionero implica renunciar a afectos que puedan nublar su visión y poner en primer lugar el cumplimiento de la voluntad de Dios”, añadió. Momento de la renovación de votos Reconoció que, a los ojos del mundo, puede parecer extraño que un joven entre- gue su vida a Dios sin buscar las seguridades comunes de formar una familia, tener un empleo estable o asegurar un patrimonio. “Pero la vida consagrada –afirmó– es un llamado a vivir sin seguridades humanas, confiando plenamente en la Providencia, para acercar a las personas a Dios y trabajar por una sociedad renovada.” El Padre Ávila destacó también el papel fundamental de los laicos: “Su oración, su cercanía y su apoyo material son esenciales para que los consagrados podamos perseverar en nuestra misión, dijo. Todos, laicos y consagrados, estamos llamados a ser testimonio de la presencia de Dios en el mundo.” En la primera fila los seminaristas que renovaron votos de pobreza , castidad y obediencia . Tres de ellos estudian Filosofía y cuatro inician estudios en Teología, En la segunda fila, atrás, el diácono Allen Darrow, y los Misioneros Servidores de la Palabra, Padre Jesús Cruz Hernández, Padre Abraham Ávila y Padre Moisés Urzúa , (Foto ICR/ Vero Gutiérrez) La celebración se unió espiritualmente a otros seminaristas y religiosos de la congregación de los Misioneros Servidores de la Palabra que, en distintos lugares del mundo, en esa misma hora, renovaban sus votos, hacían votos perpetuos o se consagraban por primera vez. Carlos Elías Galdámez: “ Significa una renovación de las promesas que he hecho a Dios y de mi relación con Él. Es caminar siempre unido a Él en esta consagración que me ha permitido vivir, para alcanzar la meta que es la santidad.” Sergio Armando Rodríguez: “Dios es quien da plenitud a mi vida. Podemos poseer muchas cosas materiales, pero al final podemos sentirnos vacíos; a veces incluso renunciamos a estar cerca de nuestra familia. Sin embargo, la renovación, la consagración y este compromiso con Dios llenan mi corazón. Por eso puedo afirmar con certeza que la vida consagrada es, para mí, verdadera plenitud.”