Finally, after about 10 days of frustration and difficulties for many people, it looks like New Jersey is finally getting back in motion. Power seems to be back in the schools and offices and the gas stations are pumping gas again, so the lines are not too long anymore. This past week was a good opportunity to count our blessings and to recognize how the little things in life are often taken for granted.
A couple of days without heat or power or the luxuries that we are used to is nothing in comparison to the suffering that many, especially at the Jersey Shore, are going through. The pictures show so many cars and homes literally washed away and the destruction the Hurricane caused is tough to view.
Thank God life is getting back to normal, at least a little bit and I pray that God will bless those who are still recovering and will continue to recover in the aftermath of the storm. And hopefully, today's Nor'Easter won't be too bad, either!
Wednesday, November 7, 2012
Thursday, May 24, 2012
15 years of Priesthood
The old cliche is "Where did all the time go?" I think nothing is truer than when a priest looks back on his years of service. I do not complain about how fast it goes; I am always simply bewildered at how quickly time passes and I don't always have a chance to reflect on what had happened.
Fr. Matthew Pawlikowski, one of my closest friends and a priest/soldier who has spent time in Gaza, Egypt, Afghanistan and Germany and I will often recount the pivotal moments in our priestly lives in amazement at how much has happened and we have been witnesses to these beautiful priestly moments. Moments like visiting the sick in the hospital and giving them the sacraments and blessings and seeing them get well.
Or hearing confessions for a person who never thought that, because of their sins, could never be forgiven. Or simply spending time with the youth group or altar servers or parish choir and let them know how much they are appreciated. These moments, so often, are the ones that we do not keep foremost in our memories, but we realize that they are important moments in the life of the parishioners. we also agreed that these were sometimes seemingly simple act of involvement that we later found out that they had great effects.
Bishop Arthur Serratelli, who was a professor of mine at the seminary used to say to the class about pastoral ministry, "Being a priest is easy. Just be nice to the people." I always reflect on that advice and try to live it out. It is probably the most sound pastoral advice I have had: be nice to people, in the name of Jesus and as a respesentative of his Church. For 15 years, that has been by goal.
Fifteen years ago, I was ordained with Frs. Jim Brown; Matthew Pawlikowski: Michael Ward; Patrick Flannery; Ray Rodrigue; Carlos Flor; Paulo Frade; Jim Teti: John Wassell; Steve D'Andrea; Robert Hoatson; Will Lusik and Don Gleason. Fourteen of us. Some of us are still parochial vicars; some have become pastors, while others have had other diocesan responsibilities Of course, some have taken other paths and have left the active ministy. I sincerely pray for all of my classmates all the time. God only knows their situation and what they need and only He can help them. I think that it is important for us to pray for all of us that God will work His goodness through us wherever we might me in our lives.
Fifteen years is both a short jaunt as well as an eternity. I prayerfully believe that through the intercession of the Blessed Mother, we can continue to be effective tools of redemption for those whom we serve. Please continue to pray for the class of 1997!
Father Marc A. Vicari
Fr. Matthew Pawlikowski, one of my closest friends and a priest/soldier who has spent time in Gaza, Egypt, Afghanistan and Germany and I will often recount the pivotal moments in our priestly lives in amazement at how much has happened and we have been witnesses to these beautiful priestly moments. Moments like visiting the sick in the hospital and giving them the sacraments and blessings and seeing them get well.
Or hearing confessions for a person who never thought that, because of their sins, could never be forgiven. Or simply spending time with the youth group or altar servers or parish choir and let them know how much they are appreciated. These moments, so often, are the ones that we do not keep foremost in our memories, but we realize that they are important moments in the life of the parishioners. we also agreed that these were sometimes seemingly simple act of involvement that we later found out that they had great effects.
Bishop Arthur Serratelli, who was a professor of mine at the seminary used to say to the class about pastoral ministry, "Being a priest is easy. Just be nice to the people." I always reflect on that advice and try to live it out. It is probably the most sound pastoral advice I have had: be nice to people, in the name of Jesus and as a respesentative of his Church. For 15 years, that has been by goal.
Fifteen years ago, I was ordained with Frs. Jim Brown; Matthew Pawlikowski: Michael Ward; Patrick Flannery; Ray Rodrigue; Carlos Flor; Paulo Frade; Jim Teti: John Wassell; Steve D'Andrea; Robert Hoatson; Will Lusik and Don Gleason. Fourteen of us. Some of us are still parochial vicars; some have become pastors, while others have had other diocesan responsibilities Of course, some have taken other paths and have left the active ministy. I sincerely pray for all of my classmates all the time. God only knows their situation and what they need and only He can help them. I think that it is important for us to pray for all of us that God will work His goodness through us wherever we might me in our lives.
Fifteen years is both a short jaunt as well as an eternity. I prayerfully believe that through the intercession of the Blessed Mother, we can continue to be effective tools of redemption for those whom we serve. Please continue to pray for the class of 1997!
Father Marc A. Vicari
Monday, May 7, 2012
What's Going on at Ohio State?
I must admit, that I am not a huge fan of watching the Ohio State style of football because they often put together teams that play the "grind-it-out" style of ball that I don't find entertaining. Nonetheless, there is no doubt that that it has been a storied college powerhouse for many years and unquestionably are one of the greatest programs in college football history.
This past weekend there was something curious that happened at Ohio State University, though.
The story is that a prized football recruit Alex Anzalone, has decided to "uncommit" to the University because there is a convicted sex offender, Charles Waugh, who has been attending spring games and has been in communication with both players and football recruits, some of which are still young high school students. There are photos of this offender with these young men and one photo in particular has Waugh and Anzalone in the same photo. For this reason, Anzalone opted to not play in Columbus. He does not want to associated with a program that has let this happen.
At the same time, one gets the impression by Sal Anzalone, Alex's father, that there might be more to the story. He said,
It sounds like Mr. Anzalone might be implying that there is not much restriction at the University when young and/or underage recruits visit Columbus and there might be a history of unsupervision over the recruits. Mr. Waugh is a registered sex offender who, a few years ago, was convicted of possessing illicit underage photos. Yet, Mr. Waugh had access to young men visiting the campus and the proof, among other things, is the photos he has with them. Waugh is in a photo with Alex Anzalone and at least that one photo is the reason why recruit Anzalone will not be attending OSU. Hopefully, the worst of it is over, OSU will keep tighter watch over who interacts with the young men and the only thing that remains are the creepy photos of Waugh with the recruits.
While the university immediately issued emails to its student body cautioning them of Waugh's attempts to be in contact with some of the players and recruits, it came just last week, a bit late. God only knows how much contact Waugh had with players and recruits and it makes one curious about how long they allowed anyone, including registered sex offenders, to be in contact with their young recruits while on campus unsupervised and what they are going to do to keep it from happening again.
Hopefully, both recently-former coach Jim Tressel and new coach Urban Meyer have been and will be very protective of their underage recruits so that this breach never happens again and, at the same time, I pray that this the end of the story.
Father Marc A. Vicari
This past weekend there was something curious that happened at Ohio State University, though.
The story is that a prized football recruit Alex Anzalone, has decided to "uncommit" to the University because there is a convicted sex offender, Charles Waugh, who has been attending spring games and has been in communication with both players and football recruits, some of which are still young high school students. There are photos of this offender with these young men and one photo in particular has Waugh and Anzalone in the same photo. For this reason, Anzalone opted to not play in Columbus. He does not want to associated with a program that has let this happen.
At the same time, one gets the impression by Sal Anzalone, Alex's father, that there might be more to the story. He said,
"You don't want your son to go to a place where there's a potential issue [like this]." "You expect the staff to have some sort of control on how things are handled with recruits when they visit. This is ridiculous."
It sounds like Mr. Anzalone might be implying that there is not much restriction at the University when young and/or underage recruits visit Columbus and there might be a history of unsupervision over the recruits. Mr. Waugh is a registered sex offender who, a few years ago, was convicted of possessing illicit underage photos. Yet, Mr. Waugh had access to young men visiting the campus and the proof, among other things, is the photos he has with them. Waugh is in a photo with Alex Anzalone and at least that one photo is the reason why recruit Anzalone will not be attending OSU. Hopefully, the worst of it is over, OSU will keep tighter watch over who interacts with the young men and the only thing that remains are the creepy photos of Waugh with the recruits.
While the university immediately issued emails to its student body cautioning them of Waugh's attempts to be in contact with some of the players and recruits, it came just last week, a bit late. God only knows how much contact Waugh had with players and recruits and it makes one curious about how long they allowed anyone, including registered sex offenders, to be in contact with their young recruits while on campus unsupervised and what they are going to do to keep it from happening again.
Hopefully, both recently-former coach Jim Tressel and new coach Urban Meyer have been and will be very protective of their underage recruits so that this breach never happens again and, at the same time, I pray that this the end of the story.
Father Marc A. Vicari
Thursday, May 3, 2012
Bruce Concert
Last night I attended the Bruce Springsteen concert at the Prudential Center in Newark. As always, Bruce put on a great show and while I have been labeled a "medium" fan, as opposed to a fanatic, I do enjoy his music and his shows greatly. It is the third time I have seen him and it is always fun.
In his latest album, "Wrecking Ball," there is a real sense of the spiritual in some of his songs; some sound like they have a clear gospel-music influence. While the sound might be a little different from the past, the theme of God, redemption, grace and forgiveness are fairly common themes for Bruce. Last night he performed one of his classics, "It's Hard to be a Saint in the City" and it got me thinking of how on target that song and its title are: "it IS hard to be a saint in the city". How true that is! As Catholics and Christians, we understand it: sainthood is difficult, but we keep striving for it. And that is where the other themes that Springsteen often mention come into the picture: it is with God and His grace and our prayerfulness and our willingness to keep fighting for goodness.
Yes, it is hard to be a saint, but we keep trying and trying and, hopefully will achieve it with God's grace. And thanks for reminding us again, Bruce!
In his latest album, "Wrecking Ball," there is a real sense of the spiritual in some of his songs; some sound like they have a clear gospel-music influence. While the sound might be a little different from the past, the theme of God, redemption, grace and forgiveness are fairly common themes for Bruce. Last night he performed one of his classics, "It's Hard to be a Saint in the City" and it got me thinking of how on target that song and its title are: "it IS hard to be a saint in the city". How true that is! As Catholics and Christians, we understand it: sainthood is difficult, but we keep striving for it. And that is where the other themes that Springsteen often mention come into the picture: it is with God and His grace and our prayerfulness and our willingness to keep fighting for goodness.
Yes, it is hard to be a saint, but we keep trying and trying and, hopefully will achieve it with God's grace. And thanks for reminding us again, Bruce!
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
Easter Sunday
Sunday, April 24 was Easter Sunday and as we witnessed, it could not have been a more beautiful day to celebrate Jesus' Resurrection.
In reflection, as incredible a miracle as Jesus' rising from the dead was, it is only half the story for us Christians: we, too, believe that we will rise from the dead as Our Lord did. Like Jesus, we will rise to have a fleshly existence and will be rejoined with our souls. Scripture tells us that we will either rise again to take part in the resurrection of the just or the resurrection of the damned. This, of course, is the difference between heaven and hell. Of course, I any exclude mention of purgatory, as when the general resurrection takes place, there will be no more purgatory. Of course, our salvation or damnation will be based on our faith and coupled with living out that faith in Jesus Christ.
This is a common belief that Christians hold and explains why Easter Sunday is such a widely celebrated holiday. May this holiday and the Easter season be a time of renewed belief in Jesus Christ
--Fr. Marc A. Vicari
In reflection, as incredible a miracle as Jesus' rising from the dead was, it is only half the story for us Christians: we, too, believe that we will rise from the dead as Our Lord did. Like Jesus, we will rise to have a fleshly existence and will be rejoined with our souls. Scripture tells us that we will either rise again to take part in the resurrection of the just or the resurrection of the damned. This, of course, is the difference between heaven and hell. Of course, I any exclude mention of purgatory, as when the general resurrection takes place, there will be no more purgatory. Of course, our salvation or damnation will be based on our faith and coupled with living out that faith in Jesus Christ.
This is a common belief that Christians hold and explains why Easter Sunday is such a widely celebrated holiday. May this holiday and the Easter season be a time of renewed belief in Jesus Christ
--Fr. Marc A. Vicari
Monday, January 24, 2011
Roe v Wade: the 38th Anniversary
One of the most monumental United States Supreme Court cases was the 1857 Dred Scott v. Sandford case. In summary, the case was of a Missouri slave named Dred Scott who was considered the property of John Sandford. A few years prior to this, Scott tried to sue his slave master for his freedom, taking his case to the Federal court, but the federal court judge determined that he did not have jurisdiction to rule because Scott was black, therefore, he could not be a citizen of the United States. Thus Scott brought his case to the US Supreme Court to determine whether, because of his skin color, he could be a citizen and be entitled to all the rights of being a citizen, like the right of suing.
The nation at the time was quite divided and sometimes people became violent over the issue. Some states even threatened to succeed from the Union because of this issue. Perhaps this is what St. Paul spoke of when he wrote to the Corinthians, that there should be “no divisions among you, but that you should be united in the same mind and the same purpose.” Yet, because the truth had been obscured, there was fighting over this basic human rights issue.
The Court first held that Scott was not a “citizen” within the meaning of the United States Constitution. According to the Court, the drafters of the Constitution had viewed all ancestors of Africa as “beings of an inferior order, and altogether unfit to associate with the white race, either in social or political relations, and so far inferior that they had no rights which the white man was bound to respect.” Therefore, according to Supreme Court Justice Roger Taney, Dred Scott and all blacks (and their descendents) were not only inferior, but they could not be citizens of the United States.
Certainly we are all outraged by this thinking and certainly embarrassed that our nation would ever espouse such beliefs at the highest level of the judicial system within the populace. In very much the same way, the infamous Roe v. Wade decision of 1973 outraged and embarrassed many because, again, the nation’s highest court determined that a certain portion of our population, namely, the unborn, are not only inferior, but that they are not entitled to rights. Yesterday was the 38th anniversary of this Supreme Court decision and for that long; this nation has had an embarrassing black eye for that long.
There are many parallels between the Dred Scott Case and the Roe v. Wade decision.
1) Some didn’t see blacks as persons with rights simply because they were black and now some don’t see the unborn as persons with rights because they are unborn.
2) Like the Dred Scott decision, Roe v. Wade was handed down in the name of an individual right: in Dred Scott’s case, he was the property that could not be taken away from someone without due process. Blacks were considered the property of their owners while unborn children are the property of their mothers and in both cases, stripped of their rights and at the mercy of their “owners.”
3) The reasoning in Dred Scott and R v. W is nearly identical. In both cases the Court stripped all rights from a class of human beings and reduced them to nothing more than the property of others. For the past 38 years, in the Court’s eyes, unborn children are now the same “beings of an inferior order” that the justices considered blacks to be over a century ago.
4) We are asked to maintain this logic: the anti-slavery movement was told that no one should give in to the imposition of their morality, while that same mentality is invoked when those who believe in the rights of the unborn are told not to impose their morality of those with a choice, as it a private matter and, in essence, their property. No doubt, there are many things that we as a nation should be proud of, and the list is innumerable, but no doubt, there are things that we should be ashamed of as well. These two court decisions, especially as we mark the anniversary of one, are events that tarnish our historical standing and at the same time, they prove that we was a nation sometimes, we sit in darkness and through God's grace, we will see the Great Light. Right now, we are in a land overshadowed by death, but hopefully, the Light will arise.
This will only happen when we do what Jesus’ words were when he first began to preach. He said, “Repent.” Hopefully, we will do this for our sins both as individuals and also as a nation.
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
Chi-Chi-Chi, Le-Le-Le!!!
Wow, what a wonderful and powerful victory it was last week for the Chilean miners, the Chilean people and all those who watched and cheered for their rescue! How can one not be happy for the country and their well-orchestrated effort to rescue these thirty-three men trapped for over two months. Much credit must be given to their government for the way that they aggressively tackled the situation, from having the men deal with psychologists, dividing up the responsibilities, keeping them from physical and mental ailments, right up to the drilling of the passages and raising of the miners. What a gripping story, and, finally, broadcast we watched unfold.
This seems like it was one of those stories where the good-guys won, and, hopefully, there will be no more situations such as these, although with mining, it really is inevitable.
At the same time, one of the great story lines all along was the issue of these men's faith. They recognized that it really was miraculous (and even CNN did, too) that they survived and were rescued. They stated that there were little miracles witnessed all along and it caused their belief in God to grow. It, is God, afterall, who preforms miracles! One miner stated that they, "Saw the devil and they saw God. And they chose God." Wouldn't it be wonderful if we could all say that, all the time!!
Kudos to the worldwide community for the help they provided and the support and prayers they offered. While the technology and support that was provided was imperative, perhaps the miners survived and were rescued by the prayers of the world.
At Chilean soccer matches, the crowd often chants, "Chi-Chi-Chi, Le, Le, Le" in an effort to support their nation or to celebrate a particular victory. As the miners were brought forth from the depths of the world, the nation chanted this as a sign of victory for their nation. How appropriate! Hopefully, their faith in God and His great miracles will grow and stand firm and continue to be a witness for all the world to see!
--Fr. Marc A. Vicari
This seems like it was one of those stories where the good-guys won, and, hopefully, there will be no more situations such as these, although with mining, it really is inevitable.
At the same time, one of the great story lines all along was the issue of these men's faith. They recognized that it really was miraculous (and even CNN did, too) that they survived and were rescued. They stated that there were little miracles witnessed all along and it caused their belief in God to grow. It, is God, afterall, who preforms miracles! One miner stated that they, "Saw the devil and they saw God. And they chose God." Wouldn't it be wonderful if we could all say that, all the time!!
Kudos to the worldwide community for the help they provided and the support and prayers they offered. While the technology and support that was provided was imperative, perhaps the miners survived and were rescued by the prayers of the world.
At Chilean soccer matches, the crowd often chants, "Chi-Chi-Chi, Le, Le, Le" in an effort to support their nation or to celebrate a particular victory. As the miners were brought forth from the depths of the world, the nation chanted this as a sign of victory for their nation. How appropriate! Hopefully, their faith in God and His great miracles will grow and stand firm and continue to be a witness for all the world to see!
--Fr. Marc A. Vicari
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Tyler Clementi
A few weeks ago we heard the terrible and tragic news about a young college freshman, Tyler Clementi, from Rutgers University who committed suicide after his roommate had revealed and made public an intimate relationship Tyler had had. Some positioned that this was a misuse of modern technology and social networking gone bad; some said that it was homophobia; most agreed that it was an invasion of privacy at the very least. I am not sure of the accused's intentions, and as of now, neither is the prosecutor's office. No doubt the invasion of privacy was caused young Tyler to fall into despair.
Certainly, there was more to Tyler Clementi's background that this caused him to react so drastically. He probably was struggling with many things and his sexuality was, no doubt, one of them. Perhaps he was never really able to discuss with someone what was going on in his life.
What I found as troubling as anything was that after his suicide, there were many Rutgers students interviewed who lived near him in the dorm, and only three had stated that they had had a conversation with the young student. Only three! Yet on the evening of the vigil that the students and faculty held in his memory and honor, 700 or 800 students attended. Many showed up to remember him, which was kind, but I wonder how many were there to support him or love him before the terrible tragedy.
One of the great examples of Christian living we can show is a willingness to be kind to others. Offering a word of encouragement, a gentle "hello" or a simple smile to those that we might not know so well. For some who receive this kindness, it could make all the difference in the world. Jesus spoke to people he didn't know; Jesus listened to people when they spoke; Jesus asked those in need what he could do for them. Perhaps, this kindness might have been the difference between life and death for Tyler Clementi. Rest in peace, Tyler.
Fr. Marc A. Vicari
Certainly, there was more to Tyler Clementi's background that this caused him to react so drastically. He probably was struggling with many things and his sexuality was, no doubt, one of them. Perhaps he was never really able to discuss with someone what was going on in his life.
What I found as troubling as anything was that after his suicide, there were many Rutgers students interviewed who lived near him in the dorm, and only three had stated that they had had a conversation with the young student. Only three! Yet on the evening of the vigil that the students and faculty held in his memory and honor, 700 or 800 students attended. Many showed up to remember him, which was kind, but I wonder how many were there to support him or love him before the terrible tragedy.
One of the great examples of Christian living we can show is a willingness to be kind to others. Offering a word of encouragement, a gentle "hello" or a simple smile to those that we might not know so well. For some who receive this kindness, it could make all the difference in the world. Jesus spoke to people he didn't know; Jesus listened to people when they spoke; Jesus asked those in need what he could do for them. Perhaps, this kindness might have been the difference between life and death for Tyler Clementi. Rest in peace, Tyler.
Fr. Marc A. Vicari
Friday, August 6, 2010
My friend Eli
Every once in a while I get a chance to meet up with a friend of mine, Eli, with whom I used to practice martial arts and we now just stay in touch. We usually go for Kosher vegetarian Indian food in the New york and that is what we were able to squeeze in yesterday.
While he is a very busy guy, involved in real estate and continuing his education, while being a husband and father of two, we always get back to the topic of religion. Eli is an "orthodox" Jew (although he has disdain for labels), so often we speak of the similarities and differences of our two faiths. Marriage, marriage preparation, birth control, prayer and spirituality, philosophy and history are just some of the topics we discussed last night and are usual areas of conversation.
What I truly appreciate about our friendship and conversations are that we truly listen and appreciate the differences in our beliefs and belief systems and the more we know and understand, the greater respect we both have for our respective faiths. There is never a debate but there is always a dialogue that leads to better understanding. This always leads to fun and enjoyable evenings and greater understanding.
Last night I felt like I had continued my class on World Religions and found our conversation to be enlightening and edifying at the same time. While we are world's apart in many ways, we are both in search of much of the same thing.
"A Catholic priest and a Jew walk into an Indian restaurant and the waiter is a Muslim..."
--Fr. Marc A. Vicari
While he is a very busy guy, involved in real estate and continuing his education, while being a husband and father of two, we always get back to the topic of religion. Eli is an "orthodox" Jew (although he has disdain for labels), so often we speak of the similarities and differences of our two faiths. Marriage, marriage preparation, birth control, prayer and spirituality, philosophy and history are just some of the topics we discussed last night and are usual areas of conversation.
What I truly appreciate about our friendship and conversations are that we truly listen and appreciate the differences in our beliefs and belief systems and the more we know and understand, the greater respect we both have for our respective faiths. There is never a debate but there is always a dialogue that leads to better understanding. This always leads to fun and enjoyable evenings and greater understanding.
Last night I felt like I had continued my class on World Religions and found our conversation to be enlightening and edifying at the same time. While we are world's apart in many ways, we are both in search of much of the same thing.
"A Catholic priest and a Jew walk into an Indian restaurant and the waiter is a Muslim..."
--Fr. Marc A. Vicari
Friday, March 5, 2010
Olympic Hockey
Wow, what an exciting hockey game last Sunday's gold medal game was as it pitted the United States against Canada! I admit I have not been much of a fan over the years after having grown up loving the game as a kid. Wayne Gretsky, Guy LaFleur, Phil Esposito, Ron Hextall were some of the names that I remember watching and cheering for and against. My hockey knowledge and recollection are from THAT era.
I do, however, very clearly recall the 1980 Olympics and how the US defeated the Soviets, then went on to win the gold medal. As a boy, that was one of the great sporting memories of my life. It was great to see the US make another run at the gold during these Olympics. It did bring back some memories, but I know it was not a parallel situation.
About eight years ago the movie "Miracle" came out that detailed those 1980 Olympics and the story of the US hockey team. It was a wonderful opportunity to reminisce and not only was exciting because of the story, but also because of the patriotic theme.
While our nation's hockey team fell short this time, they were still wonderful ambassadors both for the sport as well as for our nation!
--Fr. Marc A. Vicari
I do, however, very clearly recall the 1980 Olympics and how the US defeated the Soviets, then went on to win the gold medal. As a boy, that was one of the great sporting memories of my life. It was great to see the US make another run at the gold during these Olympics. It did bring back some memories, but I know it was not a parallel situation.
About eight years ago the movie "Miracle" came out that detailed those 1980 Olympics and the story of the US hockey team. It was a wonderful opportunity to reminisce and not only was exciting because of the story, but also because of the patriotic theme.
While our nation's hockey team fell short this time, they were still wonderful ambassadors both for the sport as well as for our nation!
--Fr. Marc A. Vicari
Friday, February 5, 2010
The Super Bowl and the Saints
It is that wonderful time of year again! The weekend of the Super Bowl is always an exciting time, although without a New York team- particularly the Giants- it is not as exciting as it could be, but fun nonetheless.
I have never been to Indianapolis, so I do not know what that football city is like. I am certain that they are excited and amped up and ready to go. No doubt, with the talent on that team, especially headed by Peyton Manning, they are expecting that the Super Bowl trophy will be brought to Indianapolis.
Conversely, I have been to New Orleans and was stunned by the devotion of the fans in the Big Easy. There is a surreal love affair that is going on between the fans of the Saints and the team itself. With all the Saints' paraphernalia on sale and all the fleur-de-lis earrings that women were and t-shirts and jerseys that the residents wear, it is hard to spot anything not marked with this Saints' symbol.
The residents of Louisiana, however, will remind you that the fleur-de-lis is not just a symbol of their football team, but also of their Louisiana culture and history, present since the time of the Louisiana Purchase. At the same time, in the last four years or so, it has become a symbol of the resurrected city of New Orleans in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. They are similarly proud of this fact and use this flowery symbol to remind all that not only is the football team great (at least for this year), but that their city is great as well.
I particularly like the symbol of the fleur-de-lis, not because it is a symbol of the team or of the city or even of the French ancestry of Louisiana, but most importantly and proudly, because it is a sign of the Blessed Virgin Mary- a representation that long outdates the team, the state and even the French!
While either the Colts or the Saints are worthy of the championship this year and also worthy of my support, as they are both classy organizations, a team that has risen from the destruction of that terrible Hurricane, has brought to life the region with hope of celebration and at the same time both calls itself the "Saints" and sport a beautiful symbol of Mary, our Blessed Mother, will garner my official support. Go Saints!
--Fr. Marc A. Vicari
I have never been to Indianapolis, so I do not know what that football city is like. I am certain that they are excited and amped up and ready to go. No doubt, with the talent on that team, especially headed by Peyton Manning, they are expecting that the Super Bowl trophy will be brought to Indianapolis.
Conversely, I have been to New Orleans and was stunned by the devotion of the fans in the Big Easy. There is a surreal love affair that is going on between the fans of the Saints and the team itself. With all the Saints' paraphernalia on sale and all the fleur-de-lis earrings that women were and t-shirts and jerseys that the residents wear, it is hard to spot anything not marked with this Saints' symbol.
The residents of Louisiana, however, will remind you that the fleur-de-lis is not just a symbol of their football team, but also of their Louisiana culture and history, present since the time of the Louisiana Purchase. At the same time, in the last four years or so, it has become a symbol of the resurrected city of New Orleans in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. They are similarly proud of this fact and use this flowery symbol to remind all that not only is the football team great (at least for this year), but that their city is great as well.
I particularly like the symbol of the fleur-de-lis, not because it is a symbol of the team or of the city or even of the French ancestry of Louisiana, but most importantly and proudly, because it is a sign of the Blessed Virgin Mary- a representation that long outdates the team, the state and even the French!
While either the Colts or the Saints are worthy of the championship this year and also worthy of my support, as they are both classy organizations, a team that has risen from the destruction of that terrible Hurricane, has brought to life the region with hope of celebration and at the same time both calls itself the "Saints" and sport a beautiful symbol of Mary, our Blessed Mother, will garner my official support. Go Saints!
--Fr. Marc A. Vicari
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
Prayers for Haiti
There is no doubt that there are many emotions we are feeling these days. Feelings like sadness, fear, suffering, anxiety, wonder, frustration, anger and many more. We are sad because, Haiti, which has for years been suffering because of poverty, poor infrastructure, greed and corruption and sorrow, is now, again, afflicted by more tragedy. It is not fair to them.
We are angry because we say, “How can an all-good and all-loving God allow this travesty to occur? How can God let good people, innocent people, innocent children die?”
We are suffering because we have loved ones who are missing or dead, or we are suffering because we have friends who are mourning and saddened. Perhaps we are frustrated because we feel powerless: what can we do but stay here and perhaps offer our prayers and our donations, but how frustrating it is when we want to go and help and comfort the sorrowing and wipe the tears of the crying and help unearth those who are buried, only to be rebuffed in our effort, as, sadly, there is nothing we can do but pray and donate.
And we become anxious about many things: are my family members and my friends ok, especially if we have not heard from them? And we think, “Will Haiti ever recover, as she has already suffered so at the hands of the corrupt and the greedy, forced to live in poverty for so long. We might also think, what is to prevent tragedy and suffering from happening again?
Situations like these often tempt us to think in ways we ordinarily would not. Thoughts like, “God does not really love His people,” or “It was God’s way of punishing us,” or worst of all, we might think, “There is no God at all.”
Psalm 46 of the Old Testament reminds us of God as our protector in difficult times. The psalm reads:
God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in distress.
Therefore we fear not, though the earth be shaken and mountains
Plunge into the sea;
Though its waters rage and foam and the mountains
Quake at its surging.
The Lord of Hosts is with us.
While we will never understand with our limited minds the infinite ways of God, we do know that God is not simply out there and away from us, but very much with us. He has a hand in our lives and now He inspires us to show love to our neighbors. Love through donations; love through efforts to physically help and love through our prayers for the mourning, saddened and the faithful departed.
And so we pray:
Blessed are you, Lord God of power and might. God who makes the earth quake and the wind blow and the seas rise, we bless and praise you for your presence in the world and in our lives, hear our prayers as we cry out to you in sadness and joy, in fear and in security, in sorrow and in hope.
We pray for our brothers and sisters who suffer, those who have died and those still who will die: raise them up to be with you forever in joy and happiness. For the missing, that they will still be found and rescued and returned to their families, even if it requires a miracle. For those who mourn, that because of the hope you give us, wipe every tear away and replace it with lasting memories of love and beauty.
Please help to never forget that you are with us always, and you are our hope, especially when all seems hopeless; that you are our rock when we are in need of strength; that you are our peace when there is turmoil; that you are our comfort when we are mourning and you are our joy, as all miracles and salvation come from you.
We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen
We are angry because we say, “How can an all-good and all-loving God allow this travesty to occur? How can God let good people, innocent people, innocent children die?”
We are suffering because we have loved ones who are missing or dead, or we are suffering because we have friends who are mourning and saddened. Perhaps we are frustrated because we feel powerless: what can we do but stay here and perhaps offer our prayers and our donations, but how frustrating it is when we want to go and help and comfort the sorrowing and wipe the tears of the crying and help unearth those who are buried, only to be rebuffed in our effort, as, sadly, there is nothing we can do but pray and donate.
And we become anxious about many things: are my family members and my friends ok, especially if we have not heard from them? And we think, “Will Haiti ever recover, as she has already suffered so at the hands of the corrupt and the greedy, forced to live in poverty for so long. We might also think, what is to prevent tragedy and suffering from happening again?
Situations like these often tempt us to think in ways we ordinarily would not. Thoughts like, “God does not really love His people,” or “It was God’s way of punishing us,” or worst of all, we might think, “There is no God at all.”
Psalm 46 of the Old Testament reminds us of God as our protector in difficult times. The psalm reads:
God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in distress.
Therefore we fear not, though the earth be shaken and mountains
Plunge into the sea;
Though its waters rage and foam and the mountains
Quake at its surging.
The Lord of Hosts is with us.
While we will never understand with our limited minds the infinite ways of God, we do know that God is not simply out there and away from us, but very much with us. He has a hand in our lives and now He inspires us to show love to our neighbors. Love through donations; love through efforts to physically help and love through our prayers for the mourning, saddened and the faithful departed.
And so we pray:
Blessed are you, Lord God of power and might. God who makes the earth quake and the wind blow and the seas rise, we bless and praise you for your presence in the world and in our lives, hear our prayers as we cry out to you in sadness and joy, in fear and in security, in sorrow and in hope.
We pray for our brothers and sisters who suffer, those who have died and those still who will die: raise them up to be with you forever in joy and happiness. For the missing, that they will still be found and rescued and returned to their families, even if it requires a miracle. For those who mourn, that because of the hope you give us, wipe every tear away and replace it with lasting memories of love and beauty.
Please help to never forget that you are with us always, and you are our hope, especially when all seems hopeless; that you are our rock when we are in need of strength; that you are our peace when there is turmoil; that you are our comfort when we are mourning and you are our joy, as all miracles and salvation come from you.
We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen
--Rev. Marc A. Vicari
Thursday, January 14, 2010
Disaster in Haiti
The news of the terrible earthquake in Haiti is unsettling to say the least. News report this morning are saying that the number of dead may be upwards of 100,000 persons. As we speak there are individuals who are still alive under rubble, struggling to live. The Army's 82nd Airborne and the Marines will be landing today in order to maintain peace and avoid chaos.
President Obama has asked former President George W. Bush to act as a special envoy for the relief efforts to help briong aid to the Haitian people. At the same time, former President Clinton, already the envoy for the UN to Haiti has been activiely raising funds to obtain the immediate necessities of water, food, temporary shelters and medicine to provide for the survivors and victims.
Others nations are sending helicopters and rescue workers to try to find survivors and provide aid to the suffering. Nations like Mexico, Brazil, China and Germany, to name a few are very active in giving help.
So many are doing so much so quickly that it really is both impressive on the world scale and edifying. At the same time, in the face of such tragedy, we need to remember to continue to pray for the dead, the suffering, the volunteers, the mourning and all those affected, escpecially so many Americans awaiting word about loved ones. It is a terrible tragedy and we know that God will hear our prayers, especially if that is all we can offer. And it should be the least we can offer at this time for our brothers and sisters who are suffering.
--Rev. Marc A. Vicari
President Obama has asked former President George W. Bush to act as a special envoy for the relief efforts to help briong aid to the Haitian people. At the same time, former President Clinton, already the envoy for the UN to Haiti has been activiely raising funds to obtain the immediate necessities of water, food, temporary shelters and medicine to provide for the survivors and victims.
Others nations are sending helicopters and rescue workers to try to find survivors and provide aid to the suffering. Nations like Mexico, Brazil, China and Germany, to name a few are very active in giving help.
So many are doing so much so quickly that it really is both impressive on the world scale and edifying. At the same time, in the face of such tragedy, we need to remember to continue to pray for the dead, the suffering, the volunteers, the mourning and all those affected, escpecially so many Americans awaiting word about loved ones. It is a terrible tragedy and we know that God will hear our prayers, especially if that is all we can offer. And it should be the least we can offer at this time for our brothers and sisters who are suffering.
--Rev. Marc A. Vicari
Monday, November 16, 2009
The Redemption of ARod
Finally the Yankee season is over. I say "finally" because now life can return to normal for Yankee fans. Thankfully it ended the way that all fans wish their favorite team's season would end. And what a fun season it had been!
There have been many great stories this season revolving around this Yankee team: the change in the clubhouse attitude, going from a stressed group of players who were anxious about losing to a loose, relaxed group that finally had some fun and personality. There were all the new players signed through free agency that were the missing pieces of the proverbial puzzle. There were the phenomenal individual seasons and highlights put together by Derek Jeter and Mark Teixiera.
One story that received much attention, but I believe was never really fully developed was the "conversion and redemption" of Alex Rodriguez.
Firstly, this is not an attempt to canonize ARod. We are all far too familiar with his private life and many of the issues that became public. May God bless him. At the same time, I believe there has been a remarkable change in the man. He went from a player who seemingly needed to be the lead story, the highest paid, the center attraction, the one who enjoyed the controversy, to the humble player who recognized that the team and the game are bigger than himself. Finally, it seemed that Alex simply enjoyed being part of the team and did not need to be the team. It was OK if others played better of got the big hit or had the attention, as long as the team was successful. What a wonderfully Christian attitude! And what a wonderful change (or one might say, "conversion").
I am not certain of ARod's religious affiliation, although I suspect he is Christian and probably a Catholic-Christian at that. His selfless, team-first mentality is certainly a refreshing change for him, but nice to see in the world of professional sports. While perhaps that change in the star player occurred because of maturity, it way have happened as he realized that we can achieve greatness by being sacrificial. This is a more Christian mentality: working as a team, filling in for what is lacking in the team, not being afraid to suffer for the good of others, recognizing that defeat is sometimes part of life and that when we grow from it, we become even more successful. It was great to see him taking delight in the success of others. These are the lessons that Jesus taught to the disciples and were followed by the early Church especially.
I am not quite willing to use Alex Rodriguez as an example of a Christ-figure playing for the Yankees. I am, however, glad to see how his humility and change in attitude and simplicity were wonderful lessons for those who watched the Yankees this year. At the very least, it was a refreshing change to see a selfless attitude in a major sports figure. And that change brought about great success. I hope that he continues to display these virtues as both a Yankee and, more importantly, as a Christian man.
--Fr. Marc A. Vicari
There have been many great stories this season revolving around this Yankee team: the change in the clubhouse attitude, going from a stressed group of players who were anxious about losing to a loose, relaxed group that finally had some fun and personality. There were all the new players signed through free agency that were the missing pieces of the proverbial puzzle. There were the phenomenal individual seasons and highlights put together by Derek Jeter and Mark Teixiera.
One story that received much attention, but I believe was never really fully developed was the "conversion and redemption" of Alex Rodriguez.
Firstly, this is not an attempt to canonize ARod. We are all far too familiar with his private life and many of the issues that became public. May God bless him. At the same time, I believe there has been a remarkable change in the man. He went from a player who seemingly needed to be the lead story, the highest paid, the center attraction, the one who enjoyed the controversy, to the humble player who recognized that the team and the game are bigger than himself. Finally, it seemed that Alex simply enjoyed being part of the team and did not need to be the team. It was OK if others played better of got the big hit or had the attention, as long as the team was successful. What a wonderfully Christian attitude! And what a wonderful change (or one might say, "conversion").
I am not certain of ARod's religious affiliation, although I suspect he is Christian and probably a Catholic-Christian at that. His selfless, team-first mentality is certainly a refreshing change for him, but nice to see in the world of professional sports. While perhaps that change in the star player occurred because of maturity, it way have happened as he realized that we can achieve greatness by being sacrificial. This is a more Christian mentality: working as a team, filling in for what is lacking in the team, not being afraid to suffer for the good of others, recognizing that defeat is sometimes part of life and that when we grow from it, we become even more successful. It was great to see him taking delight in the success of others. These are the lessons that Jesus taught to the disciples and were followed by the early Church especially.
I am not quite willing to use Alex Rodriguez as an example of a Christ-figure playing for the Yankees. I am, however, glad to see how his humility and change in attitude and simplicity were wonderful lessons for those who watched the Yankees this year. At the very least, it was a refreshing change to see a selfless attitude in a major sports figure. And that change brought about great success. I hope that he continues to display these virtues as both a Yankee and, more importantly, as a Christian man.
--Fr. Marc A. Vicari
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
The Engaged Couple
Part of marriage preparation in the Archdiocese of Newark means wither attending a Pre-Cana session (or sessions) which is always a good a practical experience. Important topics such as the need for the sacraments, communications, finances, responsible parenthood and prayer, to name a few are included. These sessions most often are lead by lay couples who are experiences in the ways of marriage and also present often is a priest to give a talk or two and perhaps to lead a prayer service or offer Mass.
An anternative in Newark is the Engaged Encounter weekend retreat. This EE retreat, as it have come to be known is a weekend long, prayerful, spiritual occasion for engaged couples to get away from the world to focus on their future spouses and forthcoming lives together. While Pre-Cana is very good, I think that EE is great! Important topics- many of the same as are included in Pre-Cana, but in EE, the talks are a bit more detailed and witnessed to by the leading couples.
The couples who work the team are either senior couples or junior couples, depending on their marriage experience. This past weekend (October 9-11) was truly a grace-filled weekend, clearly blessed by the presence of the Holy Spirit and Our Lord Jesus! The were many couples on this retreat who were so excited about their upcoming weddings and very much interested in preparing for their lives together. It is exciting to see young couples in love and excited about their futures together, seeing it as an adventure together with God! Quite edifying.
Also, hearing the stories of our senior couple: Judy and Al Kendziora and junior couple Paul and Sandy Gerbino gives one a great appreciation for the value of working through the highs and lows and struggles and blessings of married love. Their stories are awe-inspiring! They always do such a wonderful job as a team.
These couples on team are such great assets to the marriage preparation program for the Archdiocese of Newark. they are helping to produce a new breed of spiritual, prayerful, discerning young couples who are the Engaged Couple!
-Fr. Marc Vicari
An anternative in Newark is the Engaged Encounter weekend retreat. This EE retreat, as it have come to be known is a weekend long, prayerful, spiritual occasion for engaged couples to get away from the world to focus on their future spouses and forthcoming lives together. While Pre-Cana is very good, I think that EE is great! Important topics- many of the same as are included in Pre-Cana, but in EE, the talks are a bit more detailed and witnessed to by the leading couples.
The couples who work the team are either senior couples or junior couples, depending on their marriage experience. This past weekend (October 9-11) was truly a grace-filled weekend, clearly blessed by the presence of the Holy Spirit and Our Lord Jesus! The were many couples on this retreat who were so excited about their upcoming weddings and very much interested in preparing for their lives together. It is exciting to see young couples in love and excited about their futures together, seeing it as an adventure together with God! Quite edifying.
Also, hearing the stories of our senior couple: Judy and Al Kendziora and junior couple Paul and Sandy Gerbino gives one a great appreciation for the value of working through the highs and lows and struggles and blessings of married love. Their stories are awe-inspiring! They always do such a wonderful job as a team.
These couples on team are such great assets to the marriage preparation program for the Archdiocese of Newark. they are helping to produce a new breed of spiritual, prayerful, discerning young couples who are the Engaged Couple!
-Fr. Marc Vicari
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
The Petition
In New Jersey, the Bishops' Initiative to continue to remind and reeducate our faithful about marriage, its elements and its nature has been exceedingly successful thus far. For several weeks the pastors of the dioceses of the state have been asked to make the bishops' documents accessible for their parishioners. Its purpose is for parishioners to understand what makes marriage and how marriage as we know it far outdates governments and civil laws.
Marriage historically has been comprised of man and woman. A man compliments a woman perfectly: physically as well as emotionally, as do women for men. This is the natural aspect of marriage and coupling. While same-sex attraction is not new, the attempt to redefine marriage is. No where in history do we have men marrying men and women marrying women. The attempt to call same-sex unions "marriage" is relatively new.
Some of the purposes of educating the faithful of marriage and its covenental nature is to fortify the great institution; to remind couples of what they got into and engaged couples what they are getting into and to help the faithful understand that attempts to redefine what we historically call "marriage" cannot and should not be changed to mean something else.
As a follow-up to the reminder and reeducation of what constitutes marriage, the bishops have asked the faithful to sign petitions that will be presented to local legislators, namely, the state senators and assemblypersons of their districts. The petition simply reminds the legislators that the Civil Union Act of 2006 already gives same-sex couples who enter into a civil union, all the same rights as married couples. Therefore, instead of redefining marriage, legislators who seek to enforce the Act. It is a very simple petition; it is not anti-anyone or anything. it does not speak against homosexuality or the persons. Instead it speaks of upholding marriage as we already know it.
-Rev. Marc A. Vicari
Marriage historically has been comprised of man and woman. A man compliments a woman perfectly: physically as well as emotionally, as do women for men. This is the natural aspect of marriage and coupling. While same-sex attraction is not new, the attempt to redefine marriage is. No where in history do we have men marrying men and women marrying women. The attempt to call same-sex unions "marriage" is relatively new.
Some of the purposes of educating the faithful of marriage and its covenental nature is to fortify the great institution; to remind couples of what they got into and engaged couples what they are getting into and to help the faithful understand that attempts to redefine what we historically call "marriage" cannot and should not be changed to mean something else.
As a follow-up to the reminder and reeducation of what constitutes marriage, the bishops have asked the faithful to sign petitions that will be presented to local legislators, namely, the state senators and assemblypersons of their districts. The petition simply reminds the legislators that the Civil Union Act of 2006 already gives same-sex couples who enter into a civil union, all the same rights as married couples. Therefore, instead of redefining marriage, legislators who seek to enforce the Act. It is a very simple petition; it is not anti-anyone or anything. it does not speak against homosexuality or the persons. Instead it speaks of upholding marriage as we already know it.
Marriage between a man and a woman that is covenental and enduring is good for the children of that relationship for many reasons both psychologically as well as sociologically. Because marriage is good for the children through simple extension, it is then good for society. Pray that not only is marriage defended, but just as importantly, fortified for the good of society.
-Rev. Marc A. Vicari
Sunday, September 6, 2009
The Bishops' Marriage Initiative
Bishops have the fullness of the priesthood of Jesus Christ. We are reminded of this in the Vatican II documents. Part of the office of the bishop is to teach and this is a significant aspect of their office. If they do not teach, how are the faithful to be reminded of the beliefs of our Faith? Sometimes the faithful needed to be reminded often of the elements and often basic elements of our Faith. Cardinal Avery Dulles used to say that we don't need new teachings, we just need to be reminded of what the old teachings are (to paraphrase him).
These past few weekends, the Bishops of the state of New Jersey reminded the faithful of what marriage is. Two weeks ago, they issues a document called the Bishops' Message on Marriage, simply reminding the faithful of the teaching of the Church regarding marriage: how it is good for society; that it is always and only constituted by a male and female; how it is for the good of children in our society and that marriage clearly displays the complementarity of the sexes. Finally, this document reminds us that marriage comes, not from a specific religion or from a government or from laws, but from God. Because God "created them male and female," He is the author of marriage which predates religions, governments and laws.
At the same time, the Bishops of New Jersey are asking the faithful to sign a petition that will be presented to their local legislators, asking them to enforce the Civil Union Act of 2007 which gives all the legal rights to same-sex couples, but not to redefine marriage as something other than that which is between a man and a female.
I am proud of the Bishops. In the eyes of the public, this is a sticky situation, but for those crying out for a better understanding of Catholic church teaching, it is an important and much needed stance. We don't need a new teaching on marriage, we just need to be reminded of the old teaching often.
There will be more on this topic in the next few months.
These past few weekends, the Bishops of the state of New Jersey reminded the faithful of what marriage is. Two weeks ago, they issues a document called the Bishops' Message on Marriage, simply reminding the faithful of the teaching of the Church regarding marriage: how it is good for society; that it is always and only constituted by a male and female; how it is for the good of children in our society and that marriage clearly displays the complementarity of the sexes. Finally, this document reminds us that marriage comes, not from a specific religion or from a government or from laws, but from God. Because God "created them male and female," He is the author of marriage which predates religions, governments and laws.
At the same time, the Bishops of New Jersey are asking the faithful to sign a petition that will be presented to their local legislators, asking them to enforce the Civil Union Act of 2007 which gives all the legal rights to same-sex couples, but not to redefine marriage as something other than that which is between a man and a female.
I am proud of the Bishops. In the eyes of the public, this is a sticky situation, but for those crying out for a better understanding of Catholic church teaching, it is an important and much needed stance. We don't need a new teaching on marriage, we just need to be reminded of the old teaching often.
There will be more on this topic in the next few months.
Friday, September 4, 2009
Just a day at the beach
I think often we take the everyday things in life for granted too often. Flowers, the giggles of children, sunrises, the smell of freshly-cut grass and so many other "ordinary" things. I think that there is nothing as forceful a reminder of the existence of God as a day on the beach. We see God's incredible power in His pushing the waves in and out; the majesty of the birds gliding through the air; feel of the strong, covering sun upon our bodies, as surely this is what God's presence feels like.
I always believed that if and when we enjoy the Beatific Vision of sitting face-to-face with God in Heaven, it would feel something like the sunlight on our skin. The beauty of this is that even if one cannot hear or see or speak while on earth now, we can get a sense of God's presence with the feel of the sun.
So often- and rightly so- the Eternal Banquet has been likened to the celebration of the Eucharist. There will be feasting and joy and togetherness and perfection of souls and utter bliss simply because we are in God's presence. At the beach yesterday, I believe I got a smaller glimpse of the Eternal Banquet by seeing the sun and witnessing God's omnipotence and seeing life enjoying God's wonders and most of all, by feeling God's seemingly divine light shine upon me.
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