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Feast Day: June 19 By Emily Woodham Staff Writer St. Juliana Falconieri was born in 1270 in Florence, Italy. The city was known for its wealth and beauty, but it was marred by vendettas (oaths of revenge by murder), ruthless dishonesty, and little regard for human life. She was only five years younger than Dante Alighieri, whose Divine Comedy fa­mously exposed the evils and corruption that plagued both the Church and the secular world of Florence. Dante condemned many of the citizens and clergy for their heartless treatment of the poor and vulnerable. It was in this atmo­sphere of vanity, greed and lust that Juliana Falconieri rolled up her sleeves and put her fiery faith into action. Juliana’s parents were wealthy and devout. St. Alexis Falco­nieri, one of the Seven Founders of the Servites, was Juliana’s uncle. Because her parents were unable to conceive children for many years, they used their wealth to support charitable causes, including the Servite Order, to whom they provided funds for the construction of the first Servite church, the Basilica of the Most Holy Annunciation. When Juliana was conceived late in her parents’ marriage, it was considered a miracle. Her father died a few years later. Juliana adored her uncle, St. Alexis, who helped raise her after her father’s death. Around the age of 5, she decided that she wanted to be wholly consecrated to Jesus as a Religious and to be a part of the Servite Order. Her mother hoped she would out­grow this desire, but Juliana had no interest in wealthy society or married life. She loved Jesus so much that she wanted her life to be utterly devoted to loving Him in consecrated service. When she was 14, Juliana refused an arranged marriage. Over time, her uncle convinced her mother to let Juliana follow her calling to Religious life. St. Philip Benizi, another member of the Seven Founders and Superior General at that time, gave Juliana the habit and became her spiritual director. He wrote a Rule for her as a Third Order of the Servants of Mary. She lived at home with her mother, following a strict routine of prayer, penance and service. Juliana’s mother, who was nearing death, bought a house near the Servite church to serve as a convent for Juliana and any other women who wanted to join her in Religious life. In 1305, Juliana’s mother died, and the next phase of her Servite life began. At the time, it was unusual for Religious women to be uncloistered, but many were drawn to the life of prayer, fasting and work within the Third Order of Servites. It quickly grew under Juliana’s loving leadership. The Servite Sisters wore white veils and black mantles over long black hab­its. They kept their sleeves shorter than usual so that they would be unhindered in their hard work in hospitals and homes caring for the sick, poor and other vulnerable. The people began calling them the “Mantellates” because of their pinafore-like mantles. The Mantellates held strict, full fasts on Wednesdays and Fridays. They ded­icated Fridays to meditations on the Passion of Christ. On Saturdays, dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary, they allowed themselves bread and water. They offered their sacrifices to bring an end to the violence, vendettas and other divisions that were pervasive in Florence. Juliana often intervened in vendettas herself. Sworn enemies became peaceful friends through her influence. Juliana had an intense devotion to Our Lady of Sorrows and the Eucharist. She received Holy Communion three times a week, despite the prevalent scru­pulous belief that receiving Holy Communion frequently was disrespectful. Juliana’s love for Jesus in the Eucharist was so pure and genuine that she was given special permission. Her prayer life became full of ecstasies that would sometimes last for days. Her prayers are credited with saving the Servite Order during a difficult period. Juliana’s extreme fasts eventually created ulcers in her digestive system. She became chronically ill and had difficulty eating and drinking. In 1341, she be­came so violently sick that she could not receive the Holy Eucharist. Witnesses of her death said she remained joyful in her suffering, except for lamenting that she couldn’t receive Holy Communion. Nonetheless, accounts of her death include a Eucharistic miracle: when the priest came to visit her on her deathbed, she asked him to lay the consecrated Host over her heart. He laid a corporal on her chest, upon which he placed the host as she requested. Miraculously, the Host disappeared. Her body immedi­ately became serene, and she died. When her body was prepared for burial, the cross that was imprinted on the Eucharistic Host was found like a tattoo on her chest, precisely where the Host had been placed. The Sisters decided to incorporate an embroidered image of a radiating Host into their habits, sewn onto the area over the heart. Her death was on June 19. Servite biographers noted that in some years, the movable Solemnities of Corpus Christi and the Sacred Heart of Jesus some­times fall on her feast day, which she would have considered an honor. St. Juliana Falconieri was buried at the Basilica of the Most Holy Annunci­ation in Florence, where her tomb can still be visited. She is the patron saint of those who are sick, especially with chronic illness. Many also turn to her in prayer for reconciliation in relationships.

Left: Christopher and Wendy West, Center: Dr. Scott and Kimberly Hahn, Right: Johnny and Lorissa Horn Day of renewal, teaching, and celebration will feature local and international keynote speakers, including Scott and Kimberly Hahn. Bishop Peter F. Christensen believes that marriage is the crucial vocation that needs to be strengthened and has made it a top priority in his pastoral outreach as the Catholic bishop of Idaho. With the great success of the annual Catholic men’s and women’s conferences hosted by Salt and Light Catholic Radio , it is time for the Diocese’s Marriage and Family Life Office to offer a one-day conference for married couples living out their marriage vocation in the post-modern and secular world that is often confused about the definitions of marriage and family life. The theme for this year’s conference is “Anchored in Hope.” As we celebrate this year of Jubilee as Pilgrims of Hope, we are asked to make a fresh start through forgiveness and mercy. The late Pope Francis emphasized this in his letter inaugurating the Holy Year: In a special way, I would like to mention families. In the face of so many difficulties, they are often the first to suffer. Yet families are also the first place where hope is passed on, day by day, through love, mutual support, and forgiveness. May the Jubilee be a time when families rediscover the joy of their vocation to be a sanctuary of life and a sign of God’s faithful love in the world. (Spes non confundit, 21). Pope Leo XIV recently reiterated the Church’s perennial teaching on marriage and the family when he said, “ Peace is not merely the absence of conflict but a gift that demands our commitment. It is up to governments to build peaceful societies, above all by investing in the family, founded upon the stable union between a man and a woman” (Address to Diplomatic Corp, May 16, 2025). More than ever, we need to redouble our efforts to bring people together to see that they are not alone in the hard work they are doing to sustain loving and life-giving marriages. The Church must support the family founded on the stable union between a man and a woman. The Church needs to strengthen those who are walking this path because it is not easy, and hosting a day-long conference to discuss, share, and network is crucial for the ongoing life of this local Church. The Diocese is pleased to welcome this year’s international keynote speakers: Dr. Scott and Kimberly Hahn of the St. Paul Center for Biblical Theology and Christopher and Wendy West of Theology of the Body Institute. These well-known international speakers will share insights from their own Catholic marriage journeys and offer key insights for marital happiness and renewal, drawn from the Sacred Scriptures and the teachings of Pope St. John Paul II’s Theology of the Body. At 11:15 a.m., Bishop Peter F. Christensen will celebrate Mass and preach at the conference and honor those celebrating milestone anniversaries. The emcees of the conference are Johnny and Lorissa Horn, who bring great energy and passion for marriage and family life ministry. While we are launching this conference during the Jubilee year, we hope to make it an annual event, drawing couples from around the Diocese to participate and strengthen their marriages together. Our after-lunch speaker will be the Diocese’s very own, Fr. John Mosier. Before becoming a priest, he was married for 14 years. Tragically, his wife died of cancer. Father John brings his experience of life, love and loss to his pastoral ministry as he serves married couples and families as the pastor of St. Mark’s Catholic Church in Boise. This year, we are combining the first Catholic marriage conference with our annual Milestone Anniversary Mass, which celebrates couples in our Diocese who are marking 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50 and 55 years (or more) of marriage. “Anchored in Hope: The Idaho Catholic Marriage Conference” will be held on Saturday, October 18, 2025, at the Boise Centre in downtown Boise from 9 a.m. until 4:45 p.m. The day includes keynote talks, Milestone Anniversary Mass, confession, lunch and book sales. Space is limited. Early bird rates will apply from mid-June to the end of August. Following the conference, a post-event reception will be held (registration required). The cost is $150 a couple for the whole conference day and includes lunch. Please see the registration page for more information about registration options. You can also contact the Marriage and Family Life Office of the Diocese of Boise, the event's sponsor, by calling 208-350-7555 or emailing tcampana@rcdb.org . Special registration rates are available for couples celebrating one of these milestones. There is an option for couples who wish to attend Mass and have lunch, but do not want to stay for the entire conference. Childcare will be available at a reduced rate for families who do not have family or friends to help with childcare. Childcare spots are limited. For more information or to register, visit: https://dioceseofboise.regfox.com/idahocatholic-marriage-conference

Redesigned website ushers in New Chapter Above is the home page for Catholic Charities of Idaho's redesigned website, ccidaho.org . (Photo/Courtesy of CCI) By CCI staff   BOISE –Catholic Charities of Idaho (CCI) has unveiled its redesigned website, marking a significant step forward in service and compassion as the organization commemorates its 25th anniversary.   Far more than a visual refresh, the launch of  ccidaho.org  signals the beginning of a new chapter defined by greater accessibility and a deepened commitment to Gospel-rooted outreach across the state.   “The modern platform serves the CCI’s timeless mission,” said CCI Executive Director Eddie Trask. “The new website reflects a clear intention to meet clients, partners and supporters where they are. With its clean design and bilingual content, the site makes it easier than ever for individuals and families to access services ranging from immigration legal assistance and mental health counseling to financial wellness education and family support programs.”   Visitors to the site can also find an option for submitting prayer requests, a new donor page featuring a “hot-off-the-press” Impact Report and details about CCI’s highly anticipated 25th Anniversary Gala.   Real Lives, Real Impact The “Mission Moments” section stands out as one of the most potent and inspiring of the website’s features. It offers a glimpse into the human stories behind CCI’s work, the brief but powerful testimonials reflecting the transformative nature of the organization’s outreach.   “My sadness just turned into joy! This is amazing beyond words,” one client stated.    Another expressed gratitude for CCI’s spiritual and emotional support.   “Each of you have encouraged me to have the will to not give up and to go back to Church,” they wrote.   For others, the support has meant stability and healing, with yet another client stating, “I’m now in a better place. I could not have done it without you.”   “These reflections testify not only to the quality of care provided, but also to the enduring mission of the Church—to serve, to heal and to walk with the most vulnerable,” Trask said.   A Digital Expression In addition to service offerings, the site provides a stronger platform for CCI’s advocacy and educational efforts rooted in Catholic social teaching.   “By inviting individuals and parishes to explore themes such as human dignity, solidarity and the common good, the website becomes both a tool for direct aid and a resource for deeper formation,” said Trask. “As our organization moves into this next phase, it does so with a renewed articulation of purpose; rooted in the Gospel, Catholic Charities of Idaho shares God’s love with all in need by providing services and programs that support human well-being.’ Our vision is to love and strengthen Idaho one person at a time.”   Community of Love Trask added that a theological foundation grounded in the Church’s social doctrine is integral to the organization's mission.   “Pope Benedict XVI’s 2005 encyclical 'Deus Caritas Est' (God is Love) serves as the cornerstone of CCI’s identity, affirming that the Church’s charitable activity is not just a social service, but an expression of Trinitarian love,” he said. “In this light, every encounter becomes an opportunity to reveal God’s presence and foster a true community of love.”   Pope Benedict XVI states in the encyclical’s introduction that “God is love, and he who abides in love abides in God, and God abides in him” ( 1 Jn  4:16 ). These words from the   First Letter of John  express with remarkable clarity the heart of the Christian faith: the Christian image of God and the resulting image of mankind and its destiny.”   Looking Ahead Trask said that with the launch of its new website, CCI invites the faithful and the wider community to engage with its mission in fresh and meaningful ways.   “Whether through receiving direct services, offering financial support or simply learning more about CCI programs, the site offers a gateway to participation,” he said. “For Idaho Catholics, and all those seeking hope,  ccidaho.org  now serves as both a digital front door and a visible sign of a Church actively living out its call to love and serve.”

Wives, family, clergy, and community support men in vows of lifelong service Five new deacons were ordained on Friday, June 6, at St. John’s Cathedral in Boise. From left, Pamila and Jason Jaszkowiak, Lorna and Allen Darrow, Curtis and Jenny Chatterton, Keri and Tim Perrigot and Heather and Eric Meyer. (ICR photo/Vero Gutiérrez) By Philip A. Janquart ICR Editor BOISE – Surrounded by family, friends, clergy and the faithful, five men were ordained to the permanent diaconate on Friday, June 6, at St. John the Evangelist Cathedral in Boise. Bishop Peter F. Christensen presided at the Mass that included the Rite of Ordination of Eric Meyer (St. Augustine’s, Moscow), Allen Darrow (Our Lady of Good Counsel, Mountain Home), Curtis Chatterton (Holy Apostles, Meridian), Timothy Raus Perrigot (St. Nicholas, Rupert) and Jason Jaszkowiak (St. Mary’s, Boise). The occasion marked the culmination of a four-year formation process, which included study, prayer and discernment. Each new deacon commented on the journey. “My pastor said there should be a feeling of reaching another level (of holiness),” said Deacon Meyer, sharing his thoughts with the Idaho Catholic Register (ICR) immediately following the June 6 Mass. “The feeling was very profound. It was a very divine moment, for sure.” Meyer, like the other four deacons, assisted at his first Mass on June 8, Pentecost Sunday. A baptism and wedding will follow later this month. “I’m busy right out of the gate,” he said, smiling. For Deacon Darrow, the experience was something he could not have imagined. “It’s almost like it’s not even real,” he said, describing the beginning of his calling and the journey he took with four other men. “We spent four years of study, four years of prayer and four years of discernment together, and now . . . I just can’t believe that we are here, at this cathedral, and it is real.” Bishop Peter F. Christensen, as part of the Rite of Ordination, lays his hands on the head of then-candidate Allen Darrow.  (ICR photo/Vero Gutiérrez) Following Mass, a multitude of well-wishers descended on the deacons, all five admitting that being addressed by their new title would take some getting used to hearing. “People are coming out (of the Cathedral) and calling me ‘deacon,’ and I don’t even realize they are talking to me. It’s like, is this real? It’s just awesome,” Darrow said. Deacon Chatterton described the experience as “surreal” and felt abundantly “blessed.” “It’s amazing; it was one of the best days of my life,” Deacon Perrigot said. “I’m going to work hard and be a humble servant.” When asked how it felt to finally complete the journey of preparation, Deacon Jaszowiak described it as the end of one stage of his life and the beginning of another. “So, the way I describe it . . . you know how the Boston Marathon works? When you first get in, you have to run a couple miles before you get to the start line. Well, I just got to the start line,” he said, smiling. “All the formation was just getting to the race. So, now I’m at the start line and it’s time to get going.” He added that his schedule, like his fellow newly ordained deacons, is filling up fast. “Really, it’s been filling up for years,” he chuckled. “I’m doing all kinds of cool stuff. I’m helping out providing Communion services at a home for seniors, bringing Communion to them. I’m not assigned for any baptisms yet, but there’s one coming up in a couple weeks that I will be assigned to, and I’m already assigned to weekend Masses, so I’m really going with it.” Bishop Peter F. Christensen presents then-candidate Erik Meyer with the Book of the Gospels. (ICR photo/Vero Gutiérrez) Deacon Scott Pearhill (Sacred Heart Parish, Boise), editor of the ICR, commented on how he felt witnessing the five ordinations. “Friday’s diaconal ordinations touched me deeply. From only two rows back, I was able to witness their vows and their interactions with their wives. I needed to dry my eyes several times,” he said. “I remember only moments from my ordination 14 years ago, so it was a joy to immerse myself again in the prayers and gestures of the liturgy, repeated five times over by this august cohort! I found myself renewing my own vows as they were making theirs, and I deeply appreciated being able to greet and hug each new deacon following their ordinations. I thanked each one for bravely saying ‘yes.'" Rite of Ordination The Rite of Ordination to the Diaconate includes the candidates prostrating before the altar, the Bishop laying his hands upon the head of each man, the prayer of Ordination, invoking the Holy Spirit, and vesting (dressing) the new deacons with the signs of their office: the stole and dalmatic (the dalmatic is the outer garment worn over the alb and stole.) After the deacon is vested, each kneels before the bishop and is presented with the Book of the Gospels. The bishop exhorts each newly ordained deacon to “Believe what you read, teach what you believe, and practice what you teach.” Following the Rite of Ordination, the Mass proceeds to the Liturgy of the Eucharist. One of the new deacons assisted at the altar (Jason Jaszkowiak). Father German Osorio, Rector of St. John’s Cathedral, concelebrated the Mass with 20 other priests from around the Diocese of Boise, including Vicar General Father Caleb Vogel. Five deacon candidates lie prostrate during the June 6 Right of Ordination Mass. (ICR photo/Vero Gutiérrez) Bishop Christensen’s homily In his homily, Bishop Peter paralleled the readings with the service the deacons vowed to provide the faithful. “In the first reading (Acts 6:1-7b), we open with the Acts of the Apostles,” he said. “The Church has been established and it’s growing in numbers, but they are going through a trial, and the trial is that they don’t have enough helpers, so the formation of the diaconate began almost instantly as the Church was first established. He added, “There was a need for more practical care of the community, especially the widows and orphans, making sure that their physical needs were being met.” He mentioned that they undoubtedly attended to their spiritual needs, as well, assisting the Apostles. Bishop Peter held out a booklet produced by then-deacon candidate Eric Meyer, in which each of Meyer’s cohort provided short comments about their journies. “Eric, you wrote: ‘Conversion is not a single moment, but a lifelong process. My journey continues as I seek to know, love and serve God with all my heart, answering His call in whatever ways He asks.’ That ties beautifully into the Acts of the Apostles, where the constantly changing needs of the early Christian community have to be met. Eric, what you are saying is ‘I’m going to step up to whatever the need is of the Church, I want to say yes, take good care of my brothers and sisters’ – beautiful.” From left, Deacons Erik Meyer, Jason Jaszkowiak, Bishop Peter, Deacons Curtis Chatterton, Tim Perrigot and Allen Darrow.   (ICR photo/Vero Gutiérrez) Bishop Christensen praised the deacons’ wives, noting that they played a critical role in their husbands’ formation. “Wives have a wonderful role, though not an easy one,” he said. “I want to say thank you to each of you. Your husbands are here largely because of you, so thank you for your prayers, encouragement and support. They are first and foremost husbands and fathers to their children, but they will also be serving the Church. Thank you for sharing.” In closing, the Bishop expressed joy in serving the Church in Idaho. “I say to you deacons: It is an honor to be able to serve our Lord in the Diocese of Boise. So, thank you for your service to the people of God. Thank you for saying ‘yes’ to the call.” Holding out the booklet Deacon Meyer had made, Bishop Peter quoted a line that he said he would make his own: “God loves you . . . let Him.”

Integrantes de la organización Las Señoras Inc, acudieron a las oficinas de la Diócesis para agradecer el recurso que recibieron . (ICR Foto/Vero Gutiérrez) Vero Gutiérrez Asistente Editor Este año, la Campaña Católica para el Desarrollo Humano ha elegido a un grupo especial de nuestra diócesis en Boise para otorgarle una beca de 25, 000 dólares. Esta será una de las pocas entradas de dinero que ha recibido este pequeño grupo dedicado a apoyar a las familias Hispano-Latinas con personas con discapacidad. La misión del grupo de Las Señoras, Inc., es ayudar a las familias a fortalecer sus habilidades para obtener los servicios necesarios que brindan los programas de asistencia a niños y adultos con discapacidad. El objetivo es, por supuesto, que tanto niños como adultos alcancen una mejor calidad de vida y se conviertan en miembros activos de nuestra sociedad. Este grupo de mujeres que tienen en común el cuidado de un familiar con discapacidad se integró en el año 2013. El grupo se creó porque se   dieron cuenta de que tenían las mismas necesidades de asistencia y comenzaron a ayudarse mutuamente para compartir información útil sobre los servicios que podrían recibir sus hijos o familiares con discapacidad. Aracelí López, Daniela Gómez, Griselda Camacho, Victoria Martínez y Francisca Gómez, en las oficinas del Centro Pastoral Diocesano. (ICR Foto/Vero Gutiérrez) Griselda Camacho es una de las personas que comenzó a apoyar al grupo de mujeres, asesorándolas y orientándolas sobre los servicios a los que podían acceder. La mayoría de las integrantes de este grupo son mujeres que trabajan para poder sufragar los gastos fami- liares y las facturas de los servicios médicos especializados que requieren hijos e hijas con discapacidad. Las madres no solo necesitaban asistencia para sus hijos e hijas, sino también para ellas mismas, porque, como afirmó Griselda Camacho, “muchas veces se sienten agobiadas sin saber qué camino deben seguir”. La organización de Las Señoras, Inc.  tiene como visión trabajar de manera conjunta en la promoción y el fortalecimiento de la inclusión justa y solidaria para que los niños y adultos con discapacidad puedan ser autosuficientes y protagonistas de sus propias historias personales, familiares y comunitarias. Actualmente, está reconocida como una organización no lucrativa dedicada, además, a la organización de actividades educativas relacionadas con las personas con discapacidad. Griselda Camacho ha precisado que ahora que han recibido estos recursos, se van a utilizar para impartir capacitación y talleres informativos a las familias y para trabajar con ellas y ayudarlas a crecer en su liderazgo. Las señoras no solo se mantienen en permanente formación para ayudarse a ellas mismas, sino también para ayudar a otras madres y marcar así la diferencia en la vida de alguien más. Este grupo se reúne en espacios como escuelas, parques y otras áreas donde se puede dialogar, revisar, analizar y discutir proyectos para la organización. Muchas de estas familias atienden las necesidades no solo de un familiar con discapacidad, sino también de varios familiares. En este caso, se requiere apoyo económico y también personal sanitario, como cuidadores. Para recibir más información acerca de los servicios que ofrece esta organización puede comunicarse al teléfono 208-703-5470 o enviar un correo electrónico a lassenorasidaho@gmail.com . También cuentan con representantes del consejo en nueve ciudades del estado de Idaho.

El Obispo Peter Christensen, Padre Caleb Vogel, sacerdotes MSP, Benedictinos, diáconos, seminaristas, hermanos, misioneros laicos y monaguillos, que participaron en la Misa de la Solemnidad de la Ascensión y la celebración de tres logros importantes para la comunidad benedictina de Idaho. (Foto ICR/ Vero Gutiérrez ) Por Vero Gutiérrez Editora Asistente   JEROME .- En la fiesta de la Ascensión del Señor, el Monasterio celebró una jornada llena de fe y gratitud. Cientos de personas de todo el estado de Idaho se reunieron para conmemorar tres hitos importantes: el 60 aniversario de la llegada de los monjes Benedictinos a Idaho, el 45 aniversario de la fundación del Monasterio de la Ascensión, y los 65 años de sacerdocio del Padre Bonifacio Lautz, O.S.B., actual Superior de la orden Benedictina. El centro de la celebración fue el agradecimiento a Dios por la gran bendición de la llegada de los Benedictinos a esta Diócesis. El Obispo de la Diócesis de Boise Peter Christensen, celebró la Santa Misa al aire libre en la explanada del Monasterio de la Ascensión y en la homilía, comparó a la comunidad Benedictina como un oasis capaz de dar vida a todo lo que le rodea, incluso que en medio del desierto. “Son como una especie de oasis que ofrece manantiales de agua que da vida a los que se cruzan en su camino y por los que se desviven por servir en la comunidad en general”, dijo el Obispo Peter, y añadió “Como Obispo, estoy muy agradecido por su fe vivida, de la que son testigo como comunidad y que comparten con la comunidad más amplia de Idaho”. El Obispo Christensen expresó su sincero agradecimiento a los benedictinos por el profundo impacto que han tenido en la vida de innumerables personas. También destacó la hermosa colaboración que se ha formado entre los benedictinos y los Misioneros Servidores de la Palabra (MSP), que ahora comparten las instalaciones del monasterio. Su complementariedad y convivencia fraterna, dijo, han enriquecido a ambas comunidades en su camino hacia la santidad. El Padre Caleb Vogel, Obispo Peter Christensen y los diáconos Salvador Carranza, Miguel Serna y Luis Ruiz. A un lado del altar, el Padre Jesús Cruz, MSP, durante la Celebración Eucarística en el Monasterio de la Ascención. También, con motivo de la fiesta de la Ascensión, el Obispo hizo referencia a los cuarenta días, en los que después de celebrar la Pascua Jesús se apareció a los discípulos, en diferentes ocasiones y les habló del Reino de Dios. El Obispo señaló, es un eco, de los cuarenta días de Cuaresma que siguieron al bautismo de Jesús-. Estos días son una llamada a profundizar en nuestra dependencia del Padre Celestial, a resistir la tentación y a construir una vida centrada no en nosotros mismos, sino en la relación con nuestro Creador.    Recordó a los fieles que la vida espiritual se forja a través de las responsabilidades cotidianas y las exigencias de nuestras circunstancias. Citando a San Francisco de Sales, Mons. Peter dijo: “No debemos preocuparnos demasiado por las dificultades futuras. Dios, que nos ha conducido con seguridad hasta aquí, nos conducirá hasta el fin. Debemos estar totalmente tranquilos en la confianza amorosa y santa que debemos tener en Su Providencia Celestial”. Concluyó su mensaje destacando que el gran regalo que Jesús nos ha dado es el Espíritu Santo como Consolador, Abogado y Consejero. Él nos da la experiencia del fortalecimiento interior; donde el Espíritu es el compañero del corazón.  El diácono Miguel Serna prepara las ofrendas del pan y el vino durante la liturgia eucarística celebrada el 1 de junio, en la Solemnidad de la Ascensión del Señor. La Misa estuvo concelebrada además por el Padre Caleb Vogel, Vicario General de la Diócesis, el Padre Boniface Lautz, O.S.B., Prior de la comunidad de los Benedictinos; el Padre Abraham Ávila, Superior de la comunidad de los Misioneros Servidores de la Palabra (MSP) en Idaho; el Padre Hugh Feiss, O.S,B., el Padre Emmanuel Chinedu, SMMM; Padre Jesús Hernández Cruz, MSP. Los diáconos Salvador Carranza, Luis Ruiz y Miguel Serna, asistieron en la celebración. Aunque la Misa se celebró al medio día la fiesta había dado inicio desde temprano con el rezo de las laudes y una serie de reflexiones en honor a la fiesta de la Ascensión. Los Misioneros Servidores de la Palabra con quienes los monjes Benedictinos compartes el mismo edificio desde hace 3 años, fueron los encargados de preparar este triple festejo para los monjes en el que participaron miembros de las comunidades Anglosajona e Hispana- Latina. La fiesta se realizó durante todo el día, con celebraciones litúrgicas actividades artísticas y culturales, una amplia muestra gastronómica y la presentación estelar de un grupo musical con el que concluyó la fiesta. Mujeres que participaron en las danzas durante la celebración del triple aniversario, preparada por los Misioneros Servidores de la Palabra para la comunidad Benedictina.  Hablando en nombre de la comunidad Benedictina, el P. Boniface expresó su gratitud a todos los que se unieron a la celebración: “Estamos especialmente agradecidos en este aniversario en el que venimos a dar la bienvenida a nuestros hermanos misioneros porque es una continuación del trabajo que vinimos a hacer y lo estamos haciendo de una manera maravillosa”.  Fue el año de 1965 cuando gracias a la llegada de la comunidad de Benedictinos, el apoyo de la diócesis, la comunidad, múltiples bienhechores, (unos de ellos, la familia Marshall, quienes les donaron el terreno donde ahora se encuentra el Monasterio), como se logró edificar esta obra que a la fecha gracias a su perseverancia y esfuerzo se sigue consolidando como un Centro de Evangelización, ahora enriquecido por la presencia de los Misioneros Servidores de la Palabra.  El Padre Boniface, terminó su mensaje con una bendición especial para la fiesta de la Ascensión, y agradeciendo que puedan ser testigos de cómo la obra que iniciaron ellos continua con los Misioneros Servidores de la Palabra. En una entrevista publicada en el Desert Chronicle el pasado mes de marzo con motivo de su 90 cumpleaños, el Padre Boniface abordó con franqueza el futuro de su comunidad: “Podría especular sobre cómo sucedió. Volver atrás y cambiar las cosas es un ejercicio inútil. Me tranquiliza pensar que, de algún modo, todo encaja en el plan providencial de Dios. Hemos sido una contribución a la Iglesia de Idaho. Nuestros planes con los Misioneros Servidores de la Palabra son una continuación de eso”. Por su parte, el Padre Abraham Ávila, superior de los MSP, también agradeció a los asistentes en nombre de las comunidades Benedictina y Misionera. “Como misioneros nos unimos a la alegría y a la gratitud a Dios por estos 60 años de fundación Benedictina y los 45 años del establecimiento de este Monasterio. En los pocos años, que llevo trabajando en esta gran Diócesis, me he dado cuenta de la gran labor que la comunidad Benedictina, sacerdotes, y hermanos religiosos ha realizado durante mucho tiempo. Los fieles que han tenido la oportunidad de conocerlos hablan muy bien de su trabajo. Durante muchos años han dedicado su vida a Dios y a la evangelización. Reconocemos su gran labor apostólica; no hay manera de expresar el gran bien que han hecho en la Diócesis. También damos gracias a Dios por el sacerdocio del Padre Superior Boniface, que este año cumple 65 años de fecundo sacerdocio. Y gracias a todos ustedes por su fidelidad a Dios y por toda la ayuda que han prestado a nuestras comunidades y a la Iglesia en general”.

More than 300 Catholics from six North Idaho parishes join the youths in joyful expression of faith and worship “Praying the Rosary with the Blessed Sacrament, with the beauty of the lake and setting sun, was heart-movingly inspirational,” said Father Len MacMillan, pastor of St. Pius X Parish in Coeur d'Alene.  (Courtesy photo/Genavive Edman) By Lisa Ormond, ICR Correspondent   On the evening of May 20, over 300 Catholics from six different northern Idaho parishes took part in a Eucharistic Procession through the streets of downtown Coeur d’Alene. They were led by area youth. “I feel the youth shared their faith today. It was really good for the youth to lead a procession in front of other people who were not Catholic,” said 15-year-old Blaze Howard, who attends St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church, where the procession started. Gathering for Jesus The 60 youth at the front of the procession were led by 16-year-old Owen Keith of Coeur d’Alene, who was the catalyst. “This was a youth-led gathering with Owen Keith providing a focal point for the passion and courage of those youth,” said Deacon Chris Stewart of St. Pius X Catholic Church. Deacon Stewart took turns carrying the monstrance with Deacon Andy Finney from St. Thomas Parish in Coeur d’Alene, Deacon Erik Schirmer, who is assigned to St. George's Parish, serving at St. Stanislaus Chapel in Rathdrum and St. Joseph's Chapel in Spirit Lake, and Deacon Vince Perry, who serves at St. George's in Post Falls. Deacon Stewart noted, “This Eucharistic procession speaks to Owen’s leadership specifically, but more broadly of the wonderful things happening across Kootenai County in terms of our Catholic faith and youth.” How it came to be The procession was Owen Keith’s idea. During the Lenten season, he participated in the Exodus 90 program, which proved very fruitful for him. “The Exodus program inspired me to think about a public proclamation of faith,” said Keith. “I realized it is hard to be religious in a public manner in your coat pocket.” “What came to fruition here started with a young man on fire for the Lord after encountering Christ through prayer, worship, and the power of the Holy Spirit,” said Jason Chavez, founder of Communio CDA , which co-hosted the Eucharistic Procession. “Many of us are still riding that spiritual high from the Eucharistic Procession.” 16-year-old Owen Keith of Coeur d’Alene led the assembly in praying the Rosary at McEuen Park . ( Courtesy photo/Lisa Ormond) Serving the greater good Owen Keith approached local Catholic youth leaders to help him plan and carry out the youth-led Eucharistic Procession. Chavez, who is also the Campus Minister at Holy Family Catholic School and Wes Miller, Director of Faith Formation and Coordinator of Youth Ministry at St. Pius X, immediately joined forces to support Keith, tapping the surrounding Catholic parish communities to assist with details and logistics. Miller, who has served as a youth leader for seven years, said, “Our youth are really motivated by mission. They are driven by social justice and making a difference, an impact, in their communities and the world.” For Miller, the May 20 Eucharistic procession was a welcome fruit from the Lord. “Once young people encounter Christ, they catch fire and are no longer afraid to bear the torch of faith and bring hope to their generation,” he said. Relics provided by The Relic Project, located in Spokane, were carried in the May 20 procession, including those of St. Francis of Assisi, St. Vincent de Paul and St. Bernadette Soubirous. Video by Elias Lowman of Communio CDA. communiocda.org Spiritual strength Keith led his Catholic community through the streets of his hometown, carrying the processional cross with pride and deep devotion. This was his first Eucharistic Procession. Keith confessed the processional cross was heavy and, at times, he found it difficult to bear. But, a thought kept coming to his mind during the procession: “My cross is light compared to the Cross Jesus carried on Calvary,” Keith said. Joseph Girard, a Coeur d’Alene High School sophomore and friend of Keith’s, was directly behind him as a candle bearer for the three-mile walk with Jesus. "Tension entered me as the procession began,” Girard said. “But we knew why we were there and the importance of it. We knew the Lord was physically before us and out for the world to see." Keith had hoped 150 Catholics would accompany him on his public faith journey, but more than double that number turned up. “I was astonished and inspired by the number of people who volunteered their time and talents to help our procession,” said Keith, “like the Knights of Columbus, leading and guiding us through traffic, as well as some of the courageous young people who stepped up and carried the relics with the procession.” Relics provided by The Relic Project, located in Spokane, were carried in the May 20 procession, including those of St. Francis of Assisi, St. Vincent de Paul and St. Bernadette Soubirous. Owen Keith of Coeur d’Alene inspired the first-ever youth-led Eucharistic Procession in North Idaho . (Courtesy photo/Genavive Edman) Participants sang hymns and prayed in unison as the Eucharist was carried from St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church to McEuen Park, where the monstrance containing the Eucharist was set upon a temporary altar. The relics, too, were placed on the altar, surrounding the monstrance. Four altar servers held a baldacchino (canopy) over the altar. While at the park, Keith led the assembly in the recitation of the Rosary. “It was so beautiful, watching and witnessing this. Just kneeling before Christ in the park on the grass with the Catholic community—it was really powerful and touching,” said St. Pius X parishioner Donna Miller. “For me personally, the procession was magnificent. It filled me with great pride that our Catholic community came together in such a strong and meaningful way,” said Keith. Deacon Erik Schirmer processes with the Blessed Sacrament through downtown Coeur d’Alene on May 20. Deacons Chris Stewart and Vince Perry and Father Majewski follow behind the canopy. ( Courtesy photo/Lisa Ormond) Reactions Attendees complimented and praised the youth for their dedication and faith. “It’s so exciting seeing so many youths and to have a youth-led procession with their love for Jesus visibly present,” said Cindy Young, a 73-year-old parishioner of St. Pius X. “This is so beautiful that so many churches of our community, the body of Christ of Kootenai County, are here.” St. Thomas parishioner Tami Lasher mentioned this was not her first Eucharistic procession as a Catholic, but it would be a memorable one. “It was very moving for me to see the amount of youth here tonight. This was amazing,” Lasher said. Father Len MacMillan, pastor of St. Pius X Parish, and Father Mariusz Majewski of St. Thomas the Apostle Parish, were also part of the youth-led procession. Father Majewski said, “It was a beautiful spiritual event, especially for our youth--a powerful testament to our faith to go and bless our city with the real presence of Jesus Christ in the Eucharist--body, soul and divinity. The participation was awesome.” Father MacMillan also noted the turnout, saying it was “surprisingly huge.” He added, “Praying the Rosary with the Blessed Sacrament with the beauty of the lake and setting sun was heart-movingly inspirational.” Deacon Stewart commented, “This sort of universality or unity is the heart of what it means to be Catholic; what it means to give your ‘Amen’ when receiving the Eucharistic Body and Blood of our Lord.” He added, “As Pope Leo's motto states, ‘In the one, we are all one,’ and it was nice to experience the incarnation of that motto at the Eucharistic Procession.” Jason Chavez called attention to the missionary spirit of the area youth: “God is moving. The Holy Spirit is stirring. And this is just the beginning,” he said. “The need for revival is now,” Keith said. “Not only in our world, not only in our nation or state or town, but in every fiber of every human being.”    Bishop Peter F. Christensen prays over 16-year-old Owen Keith at St. Pius X Catholic Church in Coeur d’Alene on May 8th. Keith approached Bishop Peter seeking a blessing for his younger brother William (left) and himself (right) in preparation for the Eucharistic procession later in the month . (Courtesy photo/Jason Chavez)

Bishop Peter Christensen, along with the community of Benedictine monks, Missionary Servants of the Word, deacons, sisters and altar servers, gathered May 9 at Ascension Monastery in Jerome to celebrate the Solemnity of the Ascension and commemorate 60 years of Benedictine ministry in Idaho, 45 years since the founding of the monastery and the 65th anniversary of the ordination to the priesthood of Father Boniface Lautz, O. S.B . ( ICR photo /Vero Gutiérrez) By Vero Gutiérrez Assistant Editor   JEROME  – On the Solemnity of the Ascension of the Lord, the Monastery of the Ascension hosted a day filled with faith and gratitude, drawing hundreds of people from across Idaho to commemorate three significant milestones: the 60th anniversary of the Benedictine monks' arrival in Idaho, the 45th anniversary of the founding of the Monastery, and the 65th anniversary of priestly ordination of Fr. Boniface Lautz, O.S.B., current superior of the Benedictine community. At the heart of the celebration was thanksgiving to God for the blessing of the Benedictines’ presence in the Diocese of Boise. Bishop Peter F. Christensen celebrated an outdoor Mass on the monastery grounds, comparing the Benedictine community to an oasis offering life-giving water in the midst of the desert. “They are like an oasis that provides springs of living water to those they encounter, going out of their way to serve the wider community,” Bishop Peter said. “As Bishop, I am deeply grateful for their living witness of faith, which they share not only among themselves but with the broader Church in Idaho.” Bishop Christensen expressed heartfelt thanks to the Benedictines for the profound impact they have made in the lives of countless people. He also emphasized the beautiful partnership formed between the Benedictines and the Missionary Servants of the Word (MSP), who now share the monastery facilities. Their complementarity and fraternal coexistence, he said, have enriched both communities on their path to holiness. In his homily, Bishop Christensen reflected on the forty days following Easter, when the Risen Christ appeared to the disciples and spoke to them about the Kingdom of God—an echo, he noted, of the forty days of Lent following Jesus’ baptism. These days are a call to deepen our dependence on the Heavenly Father, to resist temptation, and to build a life centered not on ourselves, but in relationship with our Creator. Bishop Peter Christensen celebrates the Solemnity of the Ascension at Ascension Monastery, marking three important milestones for the Idaho Benedictine community. ( ICR Photo/ Vero Gutiérrez ) He reminded the faithful that the spiritual life is shaped through daily responsibilities and the demands of our circumstances. Quoting St. Francis de Sales, Bishop Peter said: “We must not worry too much about future difficulties. The God who has brought us safely this far will carry us to the end. We must rest in loving and holy trust in His Heavenly Providence.” He concluded by highlighting the gift of the Holy Spirit—the Comforter, Advocate, and Counselor—whom Christ has given to strengthen us within and to journey with us as the companion of our hearts. The Mass was concelebrated by several priests, including Fr. Caleb Vogel, Vicar General of the Diocese of Boise; Fr. Boniface Lautz, O.S.B.; Fr. Abraham Ávila, MSP, superior of the Missionary Servants of the Word in Idaho; Fr. Hugh Feiss, O.S.B.; Fr. Emmanuel Chinedu, SMMM; and Fr. Jesús Hernández Cruz, MSP. Deacons Salvador Carranza, Luis Ruiz, and Miguel Serna assisted. Bishop Peter in the Eucharistic liturgy of the celebration assisted by Deacon Miguel Serna. The celebration began early in the day with Morning Prayer (Lauds) and reflections on the Ascension. The Missionary Servants of the Word, who have shared the monastery building with the Benedictines for three years, coordinated the day’s events, which brought together members of both the Anglo and Hispanic-Latino communities. The daylong festivities included liturgies, cultural performances, a food fair, and concluded with a musical performance. Speaking on behalf of the Benedictine community, Fr. Boniface expressed his gratitude to all who joined the celebration: “We are especially thankful on this anniversary as we welcome our missionary brothers. This is a continuation of the work we began, and it’s being carried forward in a wonderful way.” Fr. Boniface recalled how, in 1965, the Benedictines came to Idaho. The Monastery of the Ascension was established with support from the Diocese of Boise, the local Jerome community, and generous benefactors, including the Marshall family, who donated the land. Through their perseverance, the monastery has remained a center of evangelization, now enriched by the presence of the Missionary Servants of the Word. He concluded his message with a special Ascension Day blessing, noting that the mission they had begun continues today through their MSP collaborators. In an interview published in the Desert Chronicle this March to mark his 90th birthday, Fr. Boniface candidly addressed the future of his community: “I could speculate about how that happened. To go back and change things is an exercise in futility. I find peace in thinking that somehow it all fits into God’s providential plan. We have been a contribution to the Church in Idaho. Our plans with the Missionary Servants of the Word are a continuation of that.” Fr. Abraham Ávila, superior of MSP, also spoke on behalf of both communities: “As missionaries, we join in the joy and gratitude to God for the 60 years of the Benedictine foundation and the 45 years of this monastery’s establishment. In my time serving in this great diocese, I’ve witnessed the deep impact of the Benedictine community. The faithful speak highly of their work. For many years, they have devoted their lives to God and evangelization. We give thanks for their apostolic work and especially for the 65 fruitful years of priesthood of Fr. Boniface. We are also grateful to all of you who have supported our communities and the Church.”

·        New strategy garners 750 candidate recommendations ·        Special collection to support program June 7-8 Memo Gutiérrez Carbajal began his vocational discernment at age 18 in the Archdiocese of Morelia, Michoacán, Mexico. He is currently a seminarian in the Diocese of Boise.  (Photo/ Gisselle Montalván) By Philip A. Janquart ICR Assistant Editor BOISE – A new initiative to foster priestly vocations in the Diocese of Boise has resulted in more than 750 recommendations for potential candidates, marking a significant step forward in cultivating Idaho’s next generation of priests.   Dubbed “Vocation Pathway,” the strategic plan was developed by Vianney Vocations, a national organization dedicated to building a culture of vocations within dioceses. (Find out more at vianneyvocations.com .)   The initiative, which includes a special collection at parish Masses June 7-8, began with the formation and training of a dedicated vocation team. Their task: to identify faithful young men and accompany them in their discernment process.   “We’ve united forces with them,” said Father Nathan Dail, who is pastor and director of campus ministry at St. Paul’s Parish and Student Center on the Boise State University campus, and vocations director for the Diocese of Boise.   “Rarely do you see one person in both of those positions,” he told the Idaho Catholic Register ( ICR ). “I work at the center; it’s my full-time job, and vocations work is on the side. Their (Vianney Vocations) only job is to help facilitate a culture of vocations in our diocese, and they are very effective at it.”   Vianney Vocations, headquartered in Tallahassee, Fla., was founded by former Catholic seminarian Sam Alzheimer in 2009. The organization’s mission is to renew the Church by inspiring a new generation of priestly and religious vocations. It comprises a team of communication experts who assist over 100 diocesan vocation offices nationwide in reaching young Catholics and inspiring them to open their hearts to God’s call.   Some of the dioceses utilizing the Vocation Pathway strategy include Denver, Colo., New York, N.Y., Bridgeport, Conn., Fall River, Mass., Savannah, Ga., Jackson, Miss., Gaylord, Mich. and Altoona-Johnstown, Penn.  Bishop Peter Christensen shares his vocation story with a group of young men from Saint Paul’s Parish in Nampa, who responded to the "Called by Name" discernment program.  (Photo courtesy/Father Robert Méndez)   How it works The program launched in the Diocese of Boise in February 2025 with its “Called by Name” component.   Priests across Idaho began by sharing personal stories about their call to the priesthood in Sunday homilies. Parishioners were then invited to submit names of young men they believed might be good candidates.   After accounting for about 200 duplicates, more than 500 unique names were collected, representing youth to young adults in their 20s.   “Called by Name is something we are going to do every year from now on,” Father Dail said. “This is the first time we have done this, and we had incredible results. It shows that people are looking for potential priests in their diocese and their parishes.”   It’s a striking number, according to Vianney Vocations Pathway Manager Chris Kreslins, who works from his office in Spokane, Wash. He is the former director of Youth and Young Adult Evangelization for the Diocese of Boise. He joined Vianney last June and has proved a crucial link for Father Dail in his quest to ramp up vocations in Idaho.   “I would say that Boise performed well above average,” he told the ICR , adding that even some larger dioceses across the country failed to match Idaho’s success.   “I mean, just a word of congratulations and thanks to the people in the pews,” Kreslins said. “That says something about the Church in Idaho; it says something about the young men, as well, but also about parishioners and their willingness to take part in this.”   Margaret Hampton, development coordinator for the Diocese of Boise, echoed the sentiment, stating that the Idaho results outpaced dioceses where the Vocations Pathway plan has been implemented.   “We are second only to the Diocese of Austin, Texas,” she told the ICR , noting that 1,200 men were recommended as potential candidates for the priesthood in that diocese.   The Diocese of Austin comprises 25 counties in Central Texas and over 625,000 Catholics, including 216 priests, 240 permanent deacons, approximately 30 brothers and 84 sisters, according to its website.   In comparison, the Diocese of Idaho has 47 active priests statewide and 11 men in formation for the priesthood. Fathers Justin Brady, Goodluck Ajaero, and Robert Méndez welcomed young men discerning a call to priesthood to St. Paul’s Parish in Nampa. The priests answered questions about priestly life. (Photo courtesy/Father Robert Méndez) What now? Once the cards were collected, the candidate information was entered into a database organized by parish. Each candidate aged 15 and older received a letter of congratulations from Bishop Peter F. Christensen, recognizing them and encouraging them to remain open to God’s call.   Father Dail then sent a follow-up letter by mail, which included a pamphlet about the priesthood.   “The letter lets them know who I am and what’s going on in our diocese as far as vocation retreats and other events they might want to attend,” he said. “It’s really to make them aware that we are doing this every year now, that there will be more opportunities for them and that they can come to me when they need to. We are planting a seed; often that’s all it takes.”   The letter also informed the candidates that they would receive one email message per week over the next year, Father Dail encouraging them not to unsubscribe but to receive the messages with an open heart.   However, the first order of business after the diocese hired Vianney Vocations was to form a team of 11 Idaho priests to run discernment groups, an effort dubbed the “Melchizedek Project.”   “All the priests on the team are trained to run those discernment groups in a specific way,” Kreslins said. “The guys nominated through the Called by Name campaign are invited to participate in the Melchizedek Project and are presented the opportunity to participate in a seminary visit or discernment retreat. The likelihood of a guy who's done all three of those things – checks all three boxes – applying for the seminary is pretty high.”   Hampton said that four discernment groups have already begun under the Melchizedek Project, with approximately 40 men having started the process as of May 12. In addition, 10 visited seminaries in April.   Discerning the call Father Dail’s journey began with a phone call in high school, the ensuing discussion triggering a typical reaction.   “It was a priest, and he told me I was named as a possible candidate for the priesthood,” he said. “I didn’t want to hear anything about it,” he recalled.   But the seed had been planted, germinated for a time and eventually blossomed, leading him to seminary and, ultimately, to the priesthood.   Father Dail was born in Colfax, Calif. in 1987, but calls Moscow, Idaho home since moving there with his parents when he was only two. He attended the University of Idaho and Mount Angel Seminary in Oregon, and was ordained by Bishop Christensen in 2018. Before his ministry at St. Paul’s Student Center at BSU, he served as parochial vicar at All Saints Parish in Lewiston, Idaho. Father Nathan Dail (ICR photo) “We are all on a journey, and how many men, even in their 20s, know what they want to do with the rest of their lives?” said Hampton. “It’s beautiful that they are even considering the priesthood. We are creating a culture where it’s Ok, and giving them a pathway to do that; where it’s Okay to talk about it. Especially now, when the world is so noisy, with our phones and computers, and with the media constantly in our face; it's difficult for a lot of us to hear the Lord’s calling.”   She added that the distractions are one reason that dioceses across the country are seeing men answer the call to priesthood later in life.   Hampton explained that studies have shown that men who eventually became priests were encouraged or inspired by others who asked them. “It’s planting that seed,” she said.   And that’s the way it often happens, according to Father Dail, who said that many young men don’t hear, or perhaps dismiss, a call to the priesthood until someone says, “Hey, you’d make a good priest.” He said it has been challenging to plant those seeds in his dual roles.   “When you have such a big diocese, there’s no way I’m getting around as much as I should or could to help put out the questions to young men: ‘Are you discerning priesthood, do you feel called?’” he said. “As St. Paul says, ‘faith comes from what is heard,’ and so does the priesthood.”   He added: “Vocations come from what is heard from God in prayer, the priests in the Mass, and people saying to them, ‘You look like you have the qualities of a priest. You look like you could be a good priest. I see your devotion to God, I see that you take the Mass seriously, I see that you are a capable young man,” Father Dail explained.   And, as Margaret Hampton noted, you don’t have to be perfect to answer the call.   “I imagine there are a lot of young people out there, saying, ‘Me?’” she said. Hampton noted it was the same for St. Augustine, who initially doubted his call. “If you look at his life and many of our saints, they probably did not feel worthy of God’s love," she said. "In fact, a lot of them grappled with it; we all grapple with God’s love, much less being called to be a nun or a priest. But God loves us anyway.” (Photo/CNA/ Gregory Dean/Shutterstock) Funding? The Diocese of Boise funds seminarian education primarily through its annual budget, which is supported, along with many other ministries, by the Idaho Catholic Appeal.   Considering the continued growth of Idaho’s Catholic community, Bishop Christensen has set a goal of supporting 20 seminarians annually to meet the needs of a growing Catholic population.   “We are considered a mission diocese due to the extremely under-resourced areas that we serve across the state, which includes 94 parishes and missions, 15 Catholic elementary schools and two high schools, and three campus ministry student centers,” Hampton noted. “Nearly 50% of the Catholic population is in the Treasure Valley area alone, including nine parishes, seven schools and one campus ministry. Priests are needed in the Idaho Church to provide the Mass, sacraments and guide us in our spiritual journey.”   Hampton added that, due to the shortage of priests in Idaho, the diocese must rely on numerous religious orders and international priests to serve the faithful.   A special collection, the Diocesan Vocations Special Collection, will be held at Masses statewide June 7-8 to help sustain the Vocation Pathway campaign. You can also contribute online at idahovocations.com .   “The Diocesan Vocations Special Collection will help support the Vocations Office, including this new initiative, and fund the formation and education of a new class of seminarians we are anticipating to meet the needs of our growing Catholic community in Idaho,” Hampton said. “Funding sources are the Idaho Catholic Appeal, earned interest income from endowment, this Special Collection, and grants and donations.”   The Roman Catholic Church in Idaho now serves more than 280,000 Catholics, according to the Diocese’s Development Office, spread across 83,557 square miles. The seeds planted through Vocation Pathway may be key to ensuring priests are there to serve them for generations to come.

ICCW officers applaud outgoing President Mary Glenn (at podium). Seated, from left, Vice President Lou Brown, Secretary Tracy Janis and Treasurer Kathryn Venable. (ICR photos/Emily Woodham) By Emily Woodham Staff Writer Imagine temporal things, like food, arriving anew each day, without ever running out. Just as never needing to go grocery shopping because fresh food arrives each morning would cause excitement and jubilation, said Bobbi Dominick, we have something far better that never runs out: God’s mercy. “Each day we have a fresh start in His mercy,” Dominck said in her keynote talk at the Idaho Council of Catholic Women’s (ICCW) 79th Biennial Convention at St. Mark’s Parish in Boise. “Every morning, God demonstrates new grace, a new begin­ning in which gloom must flee.” Dominick is an attorney who spe­cializes in human resources, especial­ly in creating spaces of respect and safety. She developed the first safe environment program for the Diocese of Boise in the early 2000s. Her work for the Church also includes 10 years as pastoral associate at the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist in Boise. She and her husband, Deacon Tom Dominick, transferred to St. Mary’s in Boise shortly after Deacon Dominick retired a few years ago. The theme for the convention was “Follow the Son! His mercies are new every morning (Lam 3:22-23).”   Bobbi Dominick, ICCW keynote speaker. More than 50 women attended from across southern Idaho. Dominick encouraged them to think of the verse from Lamentations each morning, especially “if you ever get up on the wrong side of the bed.” It’s not enough to consider the mes­sage of God’s mercy as something we receive, she continued. “We need to determine what this verse means for our lives and our journey. How does He want us to bring mercy and com­passion to others? The answer may be different at many times in our lives, but every morning we have a chance to try and figure it out.” In discerning where she should vol­unteer in this next phase of her life, she found herself meditating on the triptych behind the altar of St. Mary’s. The work of art features the Blessed Virgin Mary and other women of faith from the Old and New Testaments, as well as those in the centuries follow­ing. Each woman of faith, Dominick said, courageously sought to bring the mercy of God to others. “God doesn’t expect all of us to be like Mary or Mother Teresa, but He grants us mercy each and every day so that we, in turn, can shower that mercy and compassion upon others with whom we interact. God’s abun­dant mercy allows us to love people just as He asks us to, and love them just as they are,” she said. Through contemplating these exam­ples of mercy, she decided to become a Vincentian, working directly with people in need. She reiterated that where and how God calls someone to bring His mercy to others will be different in each stage of life. “Take inspiration from the saints and role models, and with the mercies that God grants you new every morn­ing, go and do likewise.” Deacon Scott Pearhill spoke twice at the convention about the life of Pope Francis, who had passed away less than a week prior. Deacon Pear­hill is the communications director for the Diocese of Boise and the editor of the Idaho Catholic Register. In mid-June, he is leaving to teach pastoral studies and homiletics at Mt. Angel Seminary in Oregon.   Deacon Scott Pearhill, keynote speaker. “Pastoral Theology is taking the theology of the library and applying it to the daily life of the Church,” Pearhill said. “Pope Francis is a great mentor for that. He taught that Chris­tianity needed to be out in the streets, ministering to the people. Pope Fran­cis wanted us to live out that mercy of God every day. He wanted the joy of the Gospel to be apparent.” Pearhill shared stories about Pope Francis and his compassion for oth­ers. “He didn’t change any doctrines of the Church. What did he change? I’d say attitude,” Pearhill explained. “He changed the style in which we present those doctrines; he asked us to lead with love, not with law.” It’s important to help people under­stand why they should be attached to Christ, he said. “First, I have to know why I want to follow the Messiah. And then when I’m following the Messiah, I’ll probably want to live in the way that the Messiah would want.” Discipleship through mercy exemplified Pope Francis’s teaching.   ICCW 2025 Convention participants enjoy a fun dance exercise. The ICCW convention included time for socializing, prayer, meals and also an auction dinner. New officers were elected for the following two years. Mary Glen, parishioner at St. Mark’s, ended her term as president. Kelli Hall, parishioner at Holy Spirit Catholic Community in Pocatello, took the office of president until the next convention in 2027. “My favorite thing about my two-year presidency is interacting with some of the nicest, most loving and supportive people,” Glen said. “I’ve always liked to volunteer, but until I joined St Mark’s CCW, I didn’t really make any lasting friendships.” Her hope for the next two years is that ICCW will expand its efforts to help the people of Idaho, as well as through the National Council, to ben­efit our nation and the world. “One CCW unit can do a lot, but working together, we can do greater things,” she said. In June of next year, ICCW will host a statewide women’s retreat. The date and venue will be announced later this year. For more information about ICCW, visit idahoccw.org . 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, Ste. 400, Boise, ID 83705, or call 208-350-7554 to leave a credit card payment. Thank you, and God bless you.

A Chaplet of Divine Mercy prayer card, right, pamphlet on how to say the Rosary, middle, and a Queen of Heaven Rosary Makers card and a simple string Rosary are included in the small zip bags found at parishes around the state. They are free and all are welcome to have them. (Photo/Philip A. Janquart) By Philip A. Janquart ICR Assistant Editor   Many of them are simple, nothing fancy.   The rosaries, made of various colored beads on standard white string, are packaged in plastic zip bags that include a Divine Mercy Chaplet card and instructions on how to recite Mary’s special prayer.   You’ve likely seen the small packets at your parish church, school or adoration chapel.   But where do they come from? Who assembles the packets?   They are made available through the painstaking love and dedication of Queen of Heaven Rosary Makers at Holy Apostles Church in Meridian, a group of women committed to ensuring everyone has a rosary or can obtain one if, for example, they discover they have left theirs at home.   In such cases, they can sometimes be seen dangling between the clasped fingers of those praying as they patiently wait in line to receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation.   “These are our regular rosaries, and you’ve probably seen them all around,” Leanne Collenborne told the Idaho Catholic Register ( ICR ), referring to what the group also refers to as its “standard rosary.”   “We make rosaries for just about everybody we can think of,” Collenborne, the group’s coordinator, said. “We make and send out about 10,000 a year. People think we must have 50 people making them, but we have about 25 women and men.”   The group meets in Room 105 of Holy Apostles’ administrative building every Thursday from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. It was founded over 20 years ago by Cora Fischer, who handed leadership responsibilities over to Collenborne about three years ago. Anyone is welcome to join, and materials are provided. Rosary Makers coordinator Leanne Collenborne, left, mingles with fellow rosary makers at Holy Apostles in Meridian, including Marta Wilson, right.  (Photo/Philip A. Janquart)   “We have a very dedicated group of people,” said the veteran nurse of 40 years. “But it’s not strict; if you can come, wonderful. Sometimes, people are busy and just come to pick up supplies. Most of the rosaries, I believe, are made in our homes. We don’t charge anything for them; they are freely given.”   Donations provide money for materials, much of which is obtained at a discounted rate from Our Lady’s Rosary Makers, a supplier in Tennessee. However, the group pools its resources when funds fall short.   “We also go to craft stores and wherever we can find them (the beads),” Collenborne noted. “Parishioners will have a lot of the beads we use, and they just donate them.”   More elaborate rosaries are crafted for special events and occasions, such as graduations, conferences, and retreats.   People also turn in rosaries for repair. They are fixed and returned, but if they are not fixable, they are returned to their owners.   “We make chain rosaries for Bishop Kelly High School’s graduation, in the school colors; each graduate gets a rosary,” Collenborne said. “This year, our goal was to make 200 rosaries for every parochial school in the Diocese. We make them in their respective school colors. There are 17 schools, and we met our goal, so we are very proud of that.”   Rosaries are supplied to any parish that requests them, as well as to the Council of Catholic Women and the Knights of Columbus. Many are distributed during Confirmation and First Holy Communion, and to hospitals, nursing homes, and foreign missions overseas, specifically in Nigeria.   All of the rosaries are blessed, according to Collenborne, except those shipped overseas, as there is no guarantee they will arrive at their final destination.   St. Paul Street Evangelization Holy Apostles’ rosary makers also supply hundreds per year to St. Paul Street Evangelization, a group dedicated to introducing the rosary publicly and, perhaps, drawing back Catholics who may have fallen away from the faith.   “We set up a table at the Grove downtown on Sunday afternoons, and we lay out rosaries,” volunteer Chuck Roberts told the [ITAL/]  ICR . “We have some pamphlets and other information. We are just trying to get people to pray the rosary … that’s our hook. I mean, that is very Catholic. Everybody knows that ‘this is Catholic.’ Some people say, ‘Well, I’m not Catholic.’ We tell them, ‘This is about Jesus, so come on over.’ We are encouraging people to pray and get to know Jesus through the rosary.”   Roberts lauded Holy Apostles’ rosary makers.   “Those ladies who make them … they deserve recognition, because they have given us thousands of rosaries over the years,” he said. “I’m not sure how they crank them out like that; it’s a little miracle going on there.”   United in Ministry Collenborne said making rosaries is time well spent, sharing cookies, coffee and life.   “It’s the camaraderie and just coming together,” she said, adding that newcomers are taught how to make the rosaries.   “Marta (Wilson) has only been here a month and is already making beautiful rosaries,” Collenborne notes. “You start with the string rosaries and then graduate to the chain rosaries.”   A convert to the faith, Marta, originally from Poland, said her desire to join the group came after receiving a rosary from them.   “When I was converted, I got this little packet with the prayer of how to pray the rosary, and it changed me,” she said. “I’ve learned how to pray, and I like knowing someone is going to touch these rosaries and pray with them.”   “It’s so fun; it’s addicting,” Collenborne said. “I think all of us in the group can tell you that we can’t sit down in our homes without beads in front of us. When we are in front of the television or as soon as dinner comes off the table, the beads come out. We are all absolutely dedicated to it.”   For more information, call Leanne Collenborne at (208) 938-4893.

Feast Day: May 26 By Emily Woodham Staff Writer In the first few decades of the 16th century, Rome was far from glorious. Wars in Italy, fueled by the upheaval of the Protestant Reformation, culmi­nated in the Sack of Rome in 1527. For 10 months, the Imperial Army of the King of Spain and Holy Roman Emperor Charles V (r. 1519-1558) pillaged, tortured, raped and killed the Romans with merciless vio­lence. More than half of Rome’s population died at the hands of the Imperial Army, which was a strange combination of Spanish Catholics and German Lutheran mercenaries. A plague also scourged the city during the siege, which only increased the despair and loss of faith among the people. When the Imperial Army finally left in February of 1528, Rome was devastated. The people had barely begun to re­cover when the Tiber River flooded in 1530, bringing more disease and death to Rome. The laity and clergy were in a constant state of mourning when St. Philip Neri arrived in 1533, filled with hope in God’s love. Philip Neri was born into a middle-class family in Florence on July 21, 1515. He was known to have a cheerful dispo­sition, even while studying hard at a Dominican school. He enjoyed praying and attending Mass, but claimed not to have experienced true conversion until he was 18. At that time, he decided to forgo the privileges of a wealthy life (as the sole heir to a distant cousin) and embrace a life of poverty and humility in Rome. For two years, Philip worked as a tutor in Rome. Then, for three years, he studied Philosophy and Theology with the Order of St. Au­gustine. Not satisfied with that, he decided to live as a hermit, with Rome as his desert. He became a kind of mild-mannered street preacher who engaged people in conversations, listened to their problems and then encouraged them in the Faith. In 1544, on the eve of Pentecost, while praying at the catacombs, he was suddenly seized with an overwhelming sense of God’s enormous love. He then had a vision of a ball of flame that entered his mouth and traveled to his chest and created a fist-sized lump, which did not hurt. When the ecstasy stopped, the lump remained, and it stayed for the rest of his life. From then on, Philip would have violent tremors when he meditated, prayed or was seized with God’s love. He found that the only way he could continue his duties was through humor. Through his work in the streets, he became friends with St. Francis Xavier and later St. Ignatius Loyola. His closest friend was a Capuchin, St. Felix of Cantalice. With the guidance of a spiritual director, Philip established a group for laity in 1548, known as the Confraternity of the Holy Trinity. In 1551, Philip finally consented to be ordained a priest. Throughout his priesthood, he heard confessions for hours, well into the night. He was con­vinced that Confession was good not only for its absolution but also for the grace it conferred, enabling penitents to make good choices. Father Philip, with St. Ignatius Loyola, encouraged the “40 Hours Devo­tion” in Rome. This practice of Eucharistic Adoration for 40 hours began in Milan with the Capuchins in 1527 as a prayerful response to the Sack of Rome. Churches in the city exposed the Blessed Sacrament as pilgrims trav­eled from church to church for prayer, hymns, and to listen to preaching. At the age of 60, Father Philip received approval from the pope to form his Congregation of the Oratory (place of prayer). The Congregation of the Ora­tory consisted of secular (diocesan) priests who promised obedience but made no other vows. Members of the Oratory used humor just as Father Philip did to continue in humility and to disarm those who were wary of holiness. The musician and composer Palestrina was one of the lay members of the Oratory. Through Father Philip’s encouragement, Palestrina developed the musical genre of the oratorio, setting scripture passages or saints’ lives to music for performance in a concert style. Father Philip insisted that people were best brought to conversion through love and gentleness rather than argument and stern words. He trusted that the Holy Spirit would lead people away from sinful behavior as they experi­enced the goodness and love of God. However, Philip was not a pushover; he confronted Pope Pius V, St. Charles Borromeo, and others on various matters without apology. Philip died on the Feast of Corpus Christi on May 26, 1595. When perform­ing an autopsy, doctors found the lump in his chest was due to an enlarged heart and two broken ribs. Rome was utterly transformed by the time Father Philip died. Churches and Religious Orders were thriving; art, music and academia were flourishing. Because of his work to bring each person to an encounter with Christ, he was called the “Apostle of Rome.” He was canonized less than three decades after his death. St. Philip Neri is the patron saint of Rome, U.S. Special Forces and joy. The U.S. Special Forces Association said they chose St. Philip Neri as their patron because he embodies the traits of the ideal Special Forces soldier: selflessness, superb teaching, and inspirational leadership.