Des Moines Diocese Adult Faith Formation

Webinar Series from Ave Maria Press

2012-01-25T10:55:00.006-06:00

This is a free offering that might appeal to you as we move closer to Lent.
I have participated in the webinars offered by Ave Maria Press in the past and I have found them to be beneficial. They generally last an hour and are true to the timing.

Hete is the basic information: to register click the button below!

In partnership with the National Association for Lay Ministry,

Ave Maria Press is pleased to present this FREE Webinar:

Bringing Lent Home with Mother Teresa
Blessed Teresa of Calcutta, Nobel Peace Prize recipient and hero of the "poorest of the poor" has much to teach modern-day families, especially during the season of Lent. Join bestselling author, award-winning journalist, and EWTN television host, Donna-Marie Cooper O'Boyle, for a look at how her new booklet Bringing Lent Home with Mother Teresa equips families with the holy tools to together progress on their spiritual journeys while forging a blessed bond in the heart of the home.

This is a must-attend webinar for parish ministers who are looking for new ways to reach families during the busy season of Lent.

Donna Marie Cooper O'Boyle

For a full

schedule of presentations in the Ave Maria Press Professional Development Webinar series

click here

Father Ron Rolheiser to return to Iowa!

2011-03-11T15:51:00.001-06:00

Save the Date!

Father Ronald Rolheiser, OMI

Living the Ups and Downs

of our Faith:

Dark Nights and Doubt,

A Failure of Faith or

A Failure of Imagination?

Saturday, April 14, 2012
9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Location: TBA

More information will be coming from your diocesan office soon!

Co-sponsored by the Archdiocese of Dubuque and the
Dioceses of Davenport and Des Moines

Coming Home: Writing From the Soul

2011-01-24T10:22:00.000-06:00

AN EARLY SPRING RETREAT FOR WOMEN

March 3-6, 2011

West Des Moines, Iowa - Hamilton's on Westown Parkway

Imagine gathering in a safe, quiet space with a group of vibrant women who have come to tend their souls with creative ritual, songs, dialogue and words. You will share your weekend with others who experience writing as an entrance to the deeper self. Take time to relax, reflect, and rejuvenate through greater discovery and celebration of your direction and purpose in life.

Joyce Rupp offers her extensive experience of spiritual growth through creative ritual and reflective conferences. Mary Kay Shanley brings her respected skills of teaching at the University of Iowa Summer Writing Festival and other national writing workshops to lead the group through inventive processes that develop and hone writing abilities.

Total Fee: $300 (includes snacks, beverages, 2 lunches, Saturday Evening dinner)
$50 payable with reservation assures your place at the retreat
$250 balance due by February 11, 2011

For more imformation email Mary Kay at mks@marykayshanley.com or call (515) 225-8425

Institute of Compassionate Presence Series to Begin!

2011-01-24T09:58:00.001-06:00

The Institute of Compassionate Presence sponsored by the Servites (Sisters of Mary) will begin its 2011 series in April. The purpose of the series is to "deepen the living of compassion in one's personal and professional life."

The ICP meets on the second Friday of the months from April through November; starting on April 8th. Each day begins at 9:30 am and concludes at 3:30 pm. The sessions are held at the Servite Center of Compassion in Omaha, NE.

Cost for the entire program in $500; a non-refundable deposit of $150 is due by March 1, 2011. An early bird discount of $50 is available for those who register by February 1, 2011.

The program coordinators are Joyce Rupp, OSM and Mararet Stratman, OSM.

For more information, contact Sr. Margaret Stratman, OSM at (402) 951-3026 or by email at scc@osms.org. More details about the ICP can be found at http://www.osms.org/

Digital Catechesis?!

2010-12-17T16:20:00.000-06:00

As the season of Advent winds down and we move more directly toward Christmas, I simply wanted to share a link to the The Digital Story of the Nativity . This is a creative representation of the Christmas story. I hope you who are "digitally initiated" will find this intriguing and perhaps spur your reflection on the meaning of the Nativity anew!

Blessings!

ADVENT RESOURCES

2010-11-15T09:53:00.001-06:00

Advent, the beginning of the new Church year will be here before we know it. The Evangelization and Adult Faith Formation page of the Diocesan Website lists two very good resources for celebrating Advent and preparing for Christmas. ( http://www.dmdiocese.org/evangelization-and-adult-faith-formation.cfm )

I would like to also draw your attention to the Center for Ministry Development website which is providing free resources linked to the Scriptures for each Sunday of Advent. Here is the link. http://www.fashioningfaith.org/index.php?option=com_ambrasubs&view=categories&categoryid=976&Itemid=131

I do believe you will find these resources easy to use.

Roman Missal Coming in Advent, 2011

2010-10-13T15:45:00.000-05:00

The Third Edition of the Roman Missal will replace the current Missal on November 27, 2011. For more information about the Missal, please consult the Worship Office pages of the Diocese of Des Moines website (http://www.dmdiocese.org/) as well as the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops website (http://www.usccb.org/)

Fr. Robert Baron....WORD ON FIRE....now on WGN AMERICA!

2010-10-01T17:17:00.000-05:00

Season Three to Begin!

2010-09-03T10:02:00.017-05:00

On a Journey Together

Living in Christ is the title for the third season of our process of evangelization and renewal in the diocese of Des Moines. Parishes will be beginning this season within the next month or so. If you have not yet participated and are interested in doing so, please contact your local parish. If you have been an active participant, contact your Core Team for information about the first large group and the schedule for the small faith sharing groups.

If you need to order materials, please contact Sherri Simmer, the administrative secretary for the Department of Evangelization and Catechesis at ssimmer@dmdiocese.org or (515)237-5058.

For more information, please feel free to contact Dr. Cheryl Fournier, director of Evangelization and Adult Faith Formation at cfournier@dmdiocese.org or (515)237-5006.

Dr. Ed Hahnenberg to Speak in Ames in March

2010-02-01T16:22:00.002-06:00

Dr. Ed Hahnenberg, Ph.D

You may not know the name, but the person is well worth hearing!

Dr. Edward Hahnenberg, associate professor of theology at Xavier University in Cincinnati, Ohio will be the presenter at the All-Iowa Faith Formation Conference to be held at the Gateway Center in Ames, March 14-15.

Dr. Hahnenberg has published many articles in various magazines and journals and also to his credit are two fine books, A Concise Guide to the Documents of Vatican Council II and Ministries: A Relational Approach.

Dr. Hahnenberg’s topic for the March conference is Ministries at the Margins: The Call to Serve Christ’s Mission. He will be addressing the cultural reality in which we minister and serve the Church today. In commenting on the presentations for his time with us in March, Dr. Hahnenberg has stated, “This time demands a new look at strategies that will adequately equip the minister for service to the people of God and also a renewed sense of spirituality that will sustain the minister and the ministry as we move forward.”

Plan now to join us in March!
Registration information is available at http://www.iowafaithformation.org/

Paulist National Catholic Evangelization E-Learning Opportunities

2010-01-04T13:25:00.001-06:00

The Paulist National Catholic Evangelization AssociationWashington, DC
You don't have to travel to hear from the experts! You don't need to set aside large blocks of time to join in discussions and meetings with students from all over the U.S.!
With PNCEA's Paulist Evangelization Training Institute, online courses on parish-based evangelization bring presentations from experts on reaching out to seekers & inactive Catholics and on sharing your faith with others. Presentations and discussions are open 24/7 and the time for joining in is at your convenience, day or night.
Click to register now for coursesthat begin on January 25, 2010!

30th Anniversary of Pope John Paul II Visit to Des Moines

2009-09-24T16:08:00.005-05:00

What God Has Given and Human Hands Have Made

On Friday, October 2 and Saturday, October 3rd we will celebrate the 30th anniverary of Pope John Paul's historic visit to Des Moines.

Three organizations- the Diocese of Des Moines, Living History Farms and the National Catholic Rural Life Conference-are sponsoring a commemoration of the Holy Father's visit, to express our gratitude and to explore agriculture, feeding the world, environmental ethics, and spirituality.

For more information about the symposium, please consult the diocesan website at http://www.dmdiocese.org/

On a Journey Together Blog Launched

2009-08-27T14:57:00.010-05:00

On a Journey Together:

A Process of Evangelization

and Renewal in the

Diocese of Des Moines

http://onajourneytogether.blogspot.com/

The Blog for the Evangelization and Renewal process in the Diocese of Des Moines is up and running. You can find it at the address listed above. Please feel free to share the blog address with your communities and the groups who might be interested in pursuing on-line conversation about the process.

Fall Creighton Course Announced...Introduction to Christian Ethics

2009-04-08T15:05:00.011-05:00

The Diocese of Des Moines in partnership with Creighton University are co-sponsoring

Introduction to Christian Ethics

Dates: Friday, August 28, 2009 Registration 5:00– 6:00 pm
First session follows, 6:00—9:00 pm

Six Saturdays, 9:00 am to 3:30 pm:
August 29, September 19, October 10
October 24, November 21, December 12
Location: All Saints Parish Center, Stuart, Iowa

Instructor

Todd Salzman, Ph.D., is professor of Christian ethics and Chair of the Theology Department at Creighton University. He completed his doctorate at the Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Belgium, in 1994 and has been teaching at Creighton University since 1997. He has published five books on fundamental moral theology, marriage, and sexual ethics, including his most recent book, The Sexual
Person: Towards a Renewed Catholic Anthropology (Georgetown University Press, 2008, co-authored with Michael Lawler) and over 35 scholarly articles.

Learning from a distance in your own home!

2009-04-01T15:17:00.002-05:00

The Virtual Learning Community for Faith Formation through the University of Dayton offers adults the opportunity to learn more about their Catholic faith in the comfort of their own homes by way of the internet. Each course is limited to fourteen participants so that there is a sense of community among the learners as they embark on a five-week experience of learning, reflecting, sharing and responding to questions designed to reinforce the readings, discussion boards and exercises that are required for successful completion of the course.

The Diocese of Des Moines is a “partner diocese” which means that the per course cost is reduced from $90.00 to $40.00 for people within the diocese. Additional costs may be required for texts for each course (usually no more than $20.00).

For a list of courses being offered from May 24 through June 27, please visit the Virtual Learning Community for Faith Formation website at http://vlc.udayton.edu/ , or contact Cheryl Fournier in the Office of Adult Faith Formation at 515-237-5006 or by email at cfournier@dmdiocese.org.

On a Journey Together!

2009-03-31T14:21:00.004-05:00

On a Journey Together is the name of the process of evangelization and renewal that is now underway in three pilot parishes in the Diocese of Des Moines. In the fall of this year, 2009, all of the parishes in the Diocese will be participating in this process as one means of preparing for the Diocesan Centennial in 2011. More information will be coming soon.

Advent Calendar on University of Dayton web

2008-11-24T09:48:00.000-06:00

Here is the description they provide. “During the first fourteen days of Advent, we will explore what the Scriptures say about fourteen women of the First Testament and their parallels to Mary. Then we will look more closely at Mary as chosen daughter of Israel, at the Annunciation, and at the Visitation. Finally, we will concentrate on Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior, as the Catholic Church anticipates his birthday in the so-called O'Antiphons.”

http://campus.udayton.edu/mary/meditations/adventca.html

ADVENT IS COMING!

2008-11-07T12:24:00.002-06:00

As Advent draws near I find myself wondering how I will "wait" for the Lord this year and then it occurred to me that many of you were probably asking the same question.. There are a few resources I would like to share with you that perhaps might be helpful.

Creighton University's On Line Ministries has an excellent Advent page...here is the link...check it out...perhaps link it to your parish website or publish the link in the bulletin....
http://www.creighton.edu/CollaborativeMinistry/Advent/

Fr. John Ludwig, pastor of St. John the Apostle in Norwalk prepares a discussion starter/study guide for Advent each year and then he makes it available for all who might be interested. I am posting it here on the blog, but if you would like it in your IN BOX, simply email me at cfournier@dmdiocese.org.
First Sunday of Advent Year B: Isaiah 63:16b-17; 64:1-9 · 1 Corinthians 1:3-9 · Mark 13:33-37

1. “Be watchful! Be alert!” Think about some times when you were waiting for someone or something: a package to arrive, a phone call to come in, news from a relative, the results of some medical test. What methods do you use to stay watchful and alert? Have you ever fallen asleep and missed an appointment? Can you think of times when the waiting was for something joyful? How about times when you were waiting for something frightening?

2. “Why do you let us wander, O Lord, from your ways?” Have you ever felt as though you had wandered far from God’s ways? Do you have friends or relatives who you feel have wandered from God’s ways? What were the circumstances that slowly led you (or them) away from God’s ways? How did you find your way back? How did they find their way back? Were there important people involved in the process?

3. “No ear has ever heard, no eye ever seen any God but you doing such deeds for those who wait for him.” Have you ever felt God was answering your prayer in a most concrete way? What were you praying for? Have you spoken with anyone who felt as though God had almost directly answered a prayer for them? How about the reverse – have you ever felt as though God couldn’t be bothered with your needs or intentions? How do you reconcile those two different experiences?

4. “We are the clay and you are the potter; we are all the work of your hands.” What did you want to be when you grew up? Can you name several different things? Did any of them turn out to be what you have become? Do you feel that God was “molding” you as you made your choices? How do we figure out what God wants us to do? Have you found that easy or difficult to discover?

5. “He leaves home and places his servants in charge….” Can you remember when your parents left you “in charge?” What did they leave you in charge of? Did that make you feel important and grown up? Or did it make you feel burdened? Have you ever left someone else in charge of a situation? What led you to trust that they were the right ones to be in charge? Are there some people or some things that God has left you “in charge” of?

6. “I give thanks to God always on your account.” At Thanksgiving time we come up with all kinds of things that we are thankful for. What are some of those for you? Do you notice that some of them have changed since last year at this time? Can you name some people for whom you give God great thanks? Has anyone ever told you that they give God thanks for you or for something that you have done? Can you share that with the group?

7. “…You are not lacking in any spiritual gift as you wait for the revelation of our Lord Jesus Christ.” Gifted and Talented programs caught a lot of attention when they were first introduced. Do you feel as though you are gifted and talented in some respects? What are you good at? There seem to be times in our lives when we feel that we are lacking in all kinds of spiritual gifts! What do you think St. Paul might have been thinking of when he told the Corinthians this? Can you name some “spiritual gifts?”

8. “May he not come suddenly and find you sleeping.” If today was you last day on earth, what are some of the things that you have left undone? Is there something that you would like to do but just haven’t gotten around to doing yet? What’s keeping you from working on that project? How many days, months, years do you think God will give you?
- Nov. 30, 2008
Second Sunday of Advent Year B: Isaiah 40:1-5; 9-11 · 2 Peter 3:8-14 · Mark 1:1-8

1. “The beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God.” Who do you remember being the first to tell you about your faith? Was it a parent? A relative? A teacher? Can you recall any of the feelings of those earliest memories? New Testament scholars believe that Mark’s gospel was the first of the four gospels to be written. It is clearly the shortest of the four. Do you have a favorite gospel? How about a favorite gospel passage or story? Try reading Mark all the way through during the next week or two – you’ll be surprised how quickly you can do it.

2. “John was clothed in camel’s hair, with a leather belt around his waist. He fed on locusts and wild honey.” John the Baptist must have been a strange character. Do you know some strange characters in your neighborhood or where you work? What about them is strange? Do you ever wonder if you are acting strange? Do you have some practices or tastes that are not in the mainstream? Do they sometimes “put off” other people? Has God ever used someone strange to make you look at things differently? Can you think of two or three very strange or eccentric people in your life?

3. “One mightier than I is coming after me.” John the Baptist realized that Jesus was going to do even greater things. We usually want our children and our grandchildren to “have things better than we did.” What are some of the wishes that you have for younger members of your family? Are they mostly material improvements or are there some less tangible things that we’d like them to have? What things are better for you and your generation than for your parents or grandparents?

4. “I have baptized you with water; he will baptize you with the Holy Spirit.” Baptism is literally a “dunking” in water. John dunked his followers in water, but Jesus “dunks” us in the Holy Spirit. What do you think that means – to be dunked in the Holy Spirit? Sometimes today we feel as though we have been dunked in consumerism, in materialism, in calories, etc. How would our lives be different if we were dunked in God’s Holy Spirit? Share some ideas with your group.

5. “Behold I am sending my messenger ahead of you; he will prepare your way.” Have you ever sent someone on ahead to get things ready for something (a wedding, a picnic, a birthday party, a surprise gathering)? What were the circumstances? Did you pick the right person? Did they get things ready? Sometimes older members of a family feel that they have to “pave the way” for the younger members? Was that true in your family? Has anyone ever suggested that YOU go ahead to get things ready? How has that worked out?

6. “Do not ignore this one fact, beloved, that with the Lord one day is like a thousand years….” Have you ever had a day that never seemed to end? Was this because of some terrible occurrence? What happened? Who were the people that were part of that day? Can you remember some of the details? Have you ever had a day that was over before you noticed? Was this because of some wonderful occurrence? Do the “good times” seem to pass more quickly than the “bad times?” St. Ignatius of Loyola (the founder of the Jesuits) asked his followers to conclude each day with a review or “examen” of how God had been present in the many moments of the day. He suggested that we try to name the best part of the day and the worst part of the day, the moment of God’s greatest grace and the moment when we felt God’s absence most. Have you ever tried to end each day with this review or “examen?”

7. “Like a shepherd he feeds his flock; in his arms he gathers the lambs.” Spend a few quiet moments with this image of God’s care for you. Can you picture God looking for you, feeding you, and leading you where you need to go? - Dec. 7, 2008
Third Sunday of Advent Year B: Isaiah 61:1-2a; 10-11 · 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24 · John 1:6-8, 19-28

1. “I rejoice heartily in the Lord, in my God is the joy of my soul.” What are some reasons that you rejoice—friends, relatives, new skills you’ve acquired, some big worry over and done with? Have others shown you how to rejoice? Have you ever shown anyone else how to rejoice in some wonderful event? Do you find it easier to find reasons NOT to rejoice? Talk this over with your group.

2. “There is one among you whom you do not recognize, whose sandal strap I am not worthy to untie.” How many times have we failed to recognize a friend or acquaintance if it’s been a long time since we’ve seen them? When someone is seriously ill or has been in an accident, have you barely been able to tell who it is? Have you discovered that sometimes people don’t always recognize you? Sometimes we tell others that they’ve done something that “is not like them” – usually something bad! Can you recall being told that you aren’t “acting like yourself?” What did they mean? Have you ever felt that you were in the presence of someone truly great (whose sandal strap you weren’t worthy to untie)? If you feel comfortable, tell the group about this occasion.

3. “I am the voice of one crying out in the desert.” Every now and then we feel like no one is listening to us. This is how John the Baptist is portrayed. What are some of the issues or concerns that you think people don’t pay enough attention to?

4. “Rejoice always. Pray without ceasing.” What do you think Paul meant when he said “pray without ceasing?” How would that be possible? Have you been at some religious service that seemed as though it would never end? Is this what Paul had in mind? When are the times that you find you pray the most? Do you pray in the morning? In the evening? At mealtime? On special anniversaries? When do you find it the most difficult to pray? Have you ever tried to teach someone how to pray? What is your favorite form of prayer? Are you familiar with the Jesus Prayer? Centering Prayer? The Rosary?

5. “Test everything; retain what is good.” Blessed Pope John XXIII was famous for a similar saying: “See everything. Overlook a great deal. Improve a little.” John meant that we should not be blind to the tough realities, but we are limited creatures capable of limited influence. What are some of the things that you see that you WISH you could do something about, that you have to “overlook?” Can you think back to one or two great improvements that you have made in your life?

6. “The spirit of the Lord God is upon me, because the Lord has anointed me.” This reading is often used at ordination ceremonies. It can be just as fitting, however, for the average person. How do you feel God has chosen you? What task or role does God have set for you in particular? Do you feel that the spirit of the Lord is upon you?

7. “I am not the Christ.” “The Christ” means “the anointed (or chosen) one.” Have people ever made you feel as though they considered you like the messiah, even figuratively? How did you feel when you discovered that this was how they viewed you or the role you were playing?

8. “In all circumstances give thanks.” Does Paul really mean ALL circumstances? Are there times when you simply haven’t been able to give thanks? Share some of these difficult situations if you feel comfortable. What are the times when you feel that it is easiest to give thanks? Each time we pray the Eucharistic Prayer, the invitation is given: “All powerful God, it is our duty and our salvation always and everywhere to give you thanks.” It’s a lifelong project, isn’t it?
- Dec. 14, 2008
Fourth Sunday of Advent Year B: 2 Samuel 7:1-5, 8b-12, 14a, 16 · Romans 16:25-27 · Luke 1:26-38

1. “The angel Gabriel was sent from God….” The angel’s name is Gabriel, or Gabri-el. There are many names that end in “El” (Elohim), one of the Old Testament names for God. For example: Micha-el, Rapha-el, Dani-el, Samu-el. “Gabriel” means “man of God.” Do you know what your name means? Theodore and Dorothy are two versions of the same name: “gift of God.” John, Joan, etc., mean “God has been gracious.” Many Native American names mean something very concrete, viz., “Crazy Horse,” “Sitting Bull,” “Dances with Wolves.” The word “angel” comes from the Greek which means a “messenger.” Have you ever felt like God had sent an “angel” into your life to help you with something or to open your eyes to something? What were the circumstances? Did anyone ever tell you that you were like an “angel” from God?

2. “Behold, Elizabeth, your relative, has also conceived a son in her old age, and this is the sixth month for her who was called barren; for nothing will be impossible for God.” Sometimes people who adopt a child become pregnant after they have their adopted child. Do you know anyone who has had trouble conceiving a child? Have they considered adoption? During the time of Jesus, having children was considered a blessing from God, and being “barren” was thought a sign of God’s disfavor. Do you think people still think that way about this subject? How might it be different?

3. “Let it be done to me according to your word.” The Beatles had a song based on this passage from St. Luke’s Gospel. Maybe you recall it: “Let It Be.” This prayer of openness to the will of God is still an example to us. It comes from the prayer we call the “Magnificat.” Have you ever prayed that you would be open to whatever God had in mind for you? What “reservations” might you have about praying a prayer that is like a “blank check?”

4. “Here I am living in a house of cedar, while the ark of God dwells in a tent.” A new church or a new home can tell us how we think about our faith or about our family. How do we design it? What do we think is important? What do we cut costs on? When you look at your home, are there things that you wish were different? If you were building a home from scratch, what would you definitely include? What churches have you visited that have caught your attention? Have you visited them when they are full of worshipers or when they are empty? What difference might that make?

5. “She was greatly troubled at what was said and pondered what sort of greeting this might be.” The angel announces to Mary that she is to be the mother of the Messiah (the Christ). But this is to happen in a very extraordinary way? Do you think that Mary’s misgivings remained after the angel left? Have you ever met someone who made you uneasy? Was it the message they brought to you or the person him/herself? If Mary is a model of discipleship for us, is it any wonder that we sometimes worry and are troubled at what God may be telling us?

6. “I will give you rest from all your enemies.” Sometimes we discover that our worst enemies are ourselves. Do you find that sometimes this is true for you? Explain. Do you think you have any big enemies? Do we have enemies within our companies, schools, organizations, etc.? Does our country have any real enemies? How do you come to your conclusion?

7. Christmas is only a few days away. Do you find yourself exhausted? If so, why? What difference does the birth of Christ make to your life this year? What would you say is the central meaning of the “Incarnation” means for our world? Our custom is to exchange gifts to celebrate our joy at the Lord’s birth. What other customs could we use to celebrate that joy?
- Dec. 21, 2008

Free On-Line Presentation

2008-11-03T11:48:00.002-06:00

Googling God – A FREE Online Speaker presentation

With a grant from Our Sunday Visitor Institute, the Paulist National Catholic Evangelization Association has been sponsoring the Catholic Speakers Online (CSO) series. The latest offering will feature Mike Hayes of bustedhalo.com speaking on Googling GOD: The Religious Landscape of People in their 20s and 30s. Mike, who was a presenter for both NACMP and NCCL at last year’s conference in Houston will discuss how world events and personal experiences coupled with a technologically fast-paced world are influencing religious culture amongst younger people today. He will address the latest religious trends and the changing religious desires of today. He will also share ideas about helping those outside the church to find the richness of our tradition and those already involved to stay connected to their faith. There will be some time for discussion.

The session will take place Wednesday, November 12, 2008, 2:00-3:00 PM EST. All you need to participate is a connection to the internet and a computer headset or speakers for the audio. The session is free, but registration is required. To register, go to this site.

University of Dayton 2009 Calendar

2008-10-27T12:47:00.002-05:00

The calendar for the University of Dayton's on-line learning process, the Virtual Learning Community for Faith Formation (VLCFF) is now available. You can learn more about the VLCFF by visiting the UD website at http://vlc.udayton.edu You may also contact Cheryl Fournier at the Pastoral Center at 1-515-237-5006 or by email at cfournier@dmdiocese.org for additional information as well. The calendar will soon be available on the Adult Faith Formation page of the diocesan web site.

Catholic News Service Bible Resources and BLOG!

2008-10-13T10:35:00.002-05:00

Last week Catholic News Service launched its Bible Blog, a series of stories on books of the Bible or aspects of biblical study by some excellent scholars in Rome, the U.S. and Canada. Each scholar will post a 300-500 word piece almost daily throughout and after the world Synod of Bishops on the Bible, which runs Oct. 5-26 at the Vatican.

The Catholic News Service link is http://www.catholicnews.com/biblesynod/ I think you will find this a fascinating place to visit. Let me suggest that you subscribe to the RSS feed, which will let you know when the site has been updated!

World Synod of Bishops

2008-10-08T15:27:00.002-05:00

SYNOD OF BISHOPS 2008 The Word of God in the Life and Mission of the Church

Bishops from around the world are gathered in Rome for a synod concerning the Word of God. You can find information pertaining to the Synod on the US Bishops website at www.usccb.org/synod/

There are many features on the website, including a daily blog being authored by
Bishop Gerald F. Kicanas of the Diocese of Tucson.

Catholic Bible Study on St. Paul from Our Sunday Visitor!

2008-09-04T09:41:00.001-05:00

A special Year of St. Paul Bible study

Written especially for Catholics!

Immerse yourself in the person of the Apostle Paul--heroic in his martyr's death--but so recognizably human in his conversion story and subsequent letters to the faithful. Gain fresh insights into your own personal growth potential through the Scripture of St. Paul. Great for individual or group Bible studies!
Just $8.95» Order today»

Read an excerpt here from Mitch Pacwa's St. Paul: A Bible Study for Catholics»

Faithful Citizenship

2008-08-22T11:55:00.002-05:00

Each election year the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops publishes a very useful resource entitled Faithful Citizenship which explores political responsibility and conscience formation. The link below will take you to EXCELLENT resources from the USCCB for every group in your local community from children to adults! Why not give it a look see.

http://www.faithfulcitizenship.org/

Publisher Offers St. Paul Resources

2008-08-20T10:32:00.001-05:00

RCL-BENZIGER has an excellent website that will assist with basic information concerning St. Paul that would be beneficial for any member of your local faith community. You can find the site by clicking on the link below and then click on the St. Paul logo....

http://www.rclbenziger.com/

What is Evangelization?

2008-08-18T11:00:00.004-05:00

What is Evangelization?

Saturday, October 18• 9:00 AM– 2:30 PM
Registration & hospitality from 8:30 AM

All Saints Parish Center, Stuart

The mission of the Church is Evangelization.

This day long workshop with Bishop Pates will break open the
meaning of evangelization for us as the Catholic Community in Southwest Iowa.

Priests, Deacons, members of parish staffs, pastoral councils, councils for catechesis, boards of education, adult faith formation committees, RCIA teams, principals of Catholic schools, Catholic school faculty members, and the faithful of every parish community are encouraged to attend.

Come prepared to share in the dialogue; to be evangelized as we
evangelize others!

Registration fee is $15.00 per person...lunch is included.
Deadline for registration is October 10, 2008

For more information contact Cheryl Fournier at 515/237-5006
cfournier@dmdiocese.org

Catholic Update for the Year of Paul

2008-08-13T12:55:00.003-05:00

Catholic Updates are affordable resources made available by St. Anthony Messenger Press located in Cincinnati, Ohio. In July they released an excellent update about St. Paul. This short, 4-page essay would work well in any setting as as introduction to Paul and his role in forming and framing our Church. The Update is: Introducing St. Paul the Apostle
His Life and His Mission
By Ronald D. Witherup, S.S.

You can find it on-line at www.americancatholic.org and then clicking on "Catholic Updates" or by following this link directly: http://www.americancatholic.org/Newsletters/CU/ac0708.asp

Looking for Something DYNAMIC for Young Adults?

2008-08-13T12:17:00.003-05:00

Not too long ago I stumbled upon a website that I think is quite good. It is produced by a priest of the Archdiocese of Chicago with the blessings of Cardinal Francis George. The website is entitled Word On Fire. Fr. Robert Barron offers on this website weekly homilies based on the Sunday readings, which are available as mp3 files and podcasts. Additionally there is a link to faith clips featuring Fr. Barron on YouTube. I have found this site inviting, attractive, and stimulating. Perhaps this is something you would like to check out for your communities...

http://www.wordonfire.org/

Bishop Pates to Speak October 18 in Stuart!

2008-07-16T10:52:00.007-05:00

The fall workshop is fast approaching and we are pleased to announce that Bishop Pates will be the presenter. The workshop will be held in Stuart on Saturday, October 18, beginning at 9:00 and concluding by 2:30. The day will touch on the importance of evangelization in our local communities. More information will be coming soon. You will not want to miss this opportunity!

MARK YOUR CALENDAR NOW!

More Web Resources for the Year of Paul

2008-07-11T14:06:00.002-05:00

From RCL:
http://faithfirst.com/html/paulineyear/prayer.html

From Sadlier:
http://www.webelieveweb.com/catechist_development.cfm

From St. Mary’s Press:
http://www.smp.org/ResourcePage.cfm?Article=541

From Our Sunday Visitor:
http://www.osv.com/YearofStPaulNav/YearofStPaul/tabid/6133/Default.aspx

From Loyola Press:
http://yearofsaintpaul.com/

A Blog:
http://jubileeyearofsaintpaul.blogspot.com/

Jubilee Website: St. Paul Outside the Walls:
http://www.annopaolino.org/index.asp?lang=eng

From American Catholic (St. Anthony Press):
http://www.americancatholic.org/News/YearofStPaul/default.asp

From the Catholic News Agency:
http://www.catholicnewsagency.com/paulineyear/

Catholic Network for Adult Faith Formation

2008-07-10T10:02:00.004-05:00

The link to the Catholic Network for Adult Faith Formation below has a host of resources available to support your ministry efforts in this year of Paul. I encourage you all to look at the list and take advantage of the materials being made available. The list is a combined project of the National Conference for Catechetical Leadership (NCCL, Adult Faith Formation Committee) and the National Advisory Committee on Adult Religious Education (NACARE).

http://www.cnaff.org/index.htm

Pauline Year Resources Available!

2008-07-09T11:40:00.003-05:00

As you know, Pope Benedict XVI has declared this year (June 28, 2008-June 29, 2009) a year of Jubilee in honor of St. Paul. I am happy to be able to forward to you some resources that may assist you in planning for this special time in the life of our Church. From time to time throughout the year I will be forwarding to you resources and web links that may assist you in developing events and programs that highlight the life and ministry of Paul.

Below you will find an excellent resource available from LOYOLA PRESS….their site provides background information on St. Paul and offers a list of resources for the Pauline Year. The web address is:
http://www.yearofsaintpaul.com/

Additionally you will find some information including the declaration of the Pauline year on the Bishops Conference Website…the link is included here:

http://www.usccb.org/liturgy/stpaul/index.shtml

CNS STORY: Pope announces special year dedicated to St. Paul

2008-06-12T14:00:00.000-05:00

CNS STORY: Pope announces special year dedicated to St. Paul

Its Not Too Late!

2008-06-09T12:07:00.002-05:00

RCIA Workshop Concerning the Period of the Catechumenate to be held this JULY!
The DM diocese is hosting the 2-day institute with North American Forum on the Catechumenate.“Focus on Initiation—Catechumenate” begins Friday morning, July 18 and concludes 4:00 PM Saturday, July 19.All institute sessions will be held at the Catholic Pastoral Center, 6th and Grand, DM.Focus of the institute is the period of the Catechumenate itself—its intent and activities, the formation the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults calls for,the skills which coordinators and team members need.It is an excellent opportunity to discover the full meaning of “the baptismal catechumenate as the model for all faith formation.”Presenters will be
Mary Birmingham, author of Year Round Catechumenate and Word and Worship Workbook, Year A, B, C; and
Rev. Steve Lanza, pastor in the Chicago archdiocese, author for Catechumen’s Lectionary and the Foundations in Faith series.
Registration fee until May 16: $200/person ($190/person if 2 or more from the parish register together).FULL AND PARTIAL SCHOLARSHIPS ARE AVAILABLE TO PARISHES AND RCIA TEAMS. THE APPLICATION MATERIALS ARE ATTACHED TO THIS EMAIL. SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATIONS ARE DUE BY MAY 16.A 1-page flyer about the institute is attached.The flyer and a 4-page brochure about the “Catechumenate” institute are posted on our diocesan web page: www.dmdiocese.org

Bishop Pates Installed

2008-06-05T14:53:00.001-05:00

On May 29th over 2000 faithful gathered in Hyvee Hall in downtown Des Moines to celebrate the installation of the diocese's ninth bishop, Richard Edmond Pates. At the side you will find some of the photos from this historic event in the life of the church in Southwest Iowa!

On-Line Formation in Faith through the University of Dayton

2008-05-12T12:06:00.003-05:00

Many of you are aware that the Diocese of Des Moines partners with the University of Dayton to provide quality on-going formation in faith. Below you will find the schedule for cycles 5, 6 and 7. If you would like more information, please contact Cheryl Fournier at 515-237-5006 or by e-mail at cfournier@dmdiocese.org.

Feel free to look at the University of Dayton's Virtual Learning Community for Faith Formation web site at http://vlc.udayton.edu.

Cycle 5: Jul 13 - Aug 16

(Registration: May 20 - Jul 9)

· Basic Ecclesiology

· Catholic Beliefs

· Catholic Social Teaching 2

· Church History 2

· Evangelization and Discipleship

· General Introduction to Syro-Malabar Qurbana

· History of Catholic Social Action

· Introduction to Catechesis

· Jesus

· Marianist Studies: Prayer

· Marianist Studies: Social Justice

· Media, Faith, and Values

· National Directory for Catechesis

· Our Hearts Were Burning (Seminar)

· Overview of the GDC & NDC (Seminar)

· Sacraments

· Scripture: Introduction

· Scripture: New Testament

· Scripture: Old Testament

Cycle 6: Aug 31 - Oct 4

(Registration: Jul 15 - Aug 27)

· Advanced Ecclesiology 1

· Catholic Beliefs

· Church and Communication

· Church History 1

· Conscience

· Designing a Parish Catechetical Plan

· Digital Catechesis

· Introduction to Catechesis

· Introduction to Prayer

· Islam

· Marianist Studies: Community

· Marianist Studies: Leadership

· National Directory for Catechesis

· On Bended Knee (Seminar)

· Overview of the GDC & NDC (Seminar)

· Parish and Social Action

· Pastoral and Evangelizing Communication

· Sacraments

· Scripture: Introduction

· Scripture: New Testament

· Scripture: Old Testament

· Survey of Catholic Doctrine

Cycle 7: Oct 19 - Nov 22

(Registration: Sep 2 - Oct 15)

· Advanced Ecclesiology 2

· Basic Ecclesiology

· Catholic Beliefs

· Church History 2

· Ecumenism

· Introduction to Catechesis

· Introduction to Christian Morality

· Jesus

· Marianist Studies: Charism

· Marianist Studies: Founders

· Marianist Studies: Prayer

· Mary in Scripture and Tradition

· Media, Faith, and Values

· National Directory for Catechesis

· Our Hearts Were Burning (Seminar)

· Overview of the GDC & NDC (Seminar)

· Poverty in the U.S. and Around the World

· Praying With Children

· Sacraments

· Scripture: Introduction

· Scripture: New Testament

· Scripture: Old Testament

RCIA Workshop Concerning the Period of the Catechumenate to be held this JULY!

2008-04-23T11:07:00.003-05:00

The DM diocese is hosting the 2-day institute with North American Forum on the Catechumenate.
“Focus on Initiation—Catechumenate” begins Friday morning, July 18 and concludes 4:00 PM Saturday, July 19.All institute sessions will be held at the Catholic Pastoral Center, 6th and Grand, DM.

Focus of the institute is the period of the Catechumenate itself—
its intent and activities, the formation the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults calls for,
the skills which coordinators and team members need.
It is an excellent opportunity to discover the full meaning of “the baptismal catechumenate as the model for all faith formation.”
Presenters will be

Mary Birmingham, author of Year Round Catechumenate and Word and Worship Workbook, Year A, B, C; and
Rev. Steve Lanza, pastor in the Chicago archdiocese, author for Catechumen’s Lectionary and the Foundations in Faith series.

Registration fee until May 16: $200/person ($190/person if 2 or more from the parish register together).
FULL AND PARTIAL SCHOLARSHIPS ARE AVAILABLE TO PARISHES AND RCIA TEAMS.
THE APPLICATION MATERIALS ARE ATTACHED TO THIS EMAIL. SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATIONS ARE DUE BY MAY 16.

A 1-page flyer about the institute is attached.
The flyer and a 4-page brochure about the “Catechumenate” institute are posted on our diocesan web page: www.dmdiocese.org

BISHOP RICHARD PATES APPOINTED 9th BISHOP OF DES MOINES

2008-04-23T10:58:00.003-05:00

Installation is scheduled for Thursday, May 29th at 2:00 p.m. All are invited to attend!

Lenten Resources

2008-02-18T14:41:00.002-06:00

If you are looking for some great Lenten resources, consider looking at the US Bishops website. They have some great resources for all ages including examinations of conscience .... The resources will focus on justice and stewardship...I think you will find them helpful...additionally there is a link for an on-line radio retreat that is downloadable...check the archives for pieces you may have missed....

www.usccb.org/lent/morality.shtml#practices

INTERACTIVE ADVENT CALENDAR

2007-12-03T10:22:00.000-06:00

I cam upon this link and thought this might be something you would appreciate knowing about...it would be a great resource for you to introduce families and catehists to...I find it full of information and cleverly designed....

This interactive Advent Calendar can open some doors for all ages to grow into the mystery that is coming to birth!

http://www.beliefnet.com/advent/

Faithful Citizenship

2007-11-19T16:10:00.000-06:00

In Iowa we surely know that the Presidential Election is right around the corner. The candidates have been among us for months already and we keep bumping into them as the Caucuses draw nearer.

As faithful citizens in this country of ours, we owe it to ourselves and those around us to be informed as the election season continues. Last week at the annual November meeting of the Catholic Bishops, the Bishops approved this election year's version of Faithful Citizenship. The document can be found on line at www.usccb.org; follow the link for the November Bishop's Meeting on the home page. You can also order bulletin insert cards that offer a thumb-nail sketch of the document from the USCCB.

Other websites of interest to you may include the Iowa Catholic Conference at iowacatholicconference.org; the state legislature site at www.legis.state.ia.us; and Iowa Social Action at www.iowasocialaction.org

Did You Know that the Paulist's Have an ON-LINE EVANGELIZATION TRAINING PROCESS?

2007-08-22T15:11:00.001-05:00

The Paulist's, known for their work in Evangelization ministry for a great many years has a training process available on line. Below you will find the information concerning the coursese they have available at this time.

For more information, please visit their website, www.pncea.org

Instructor: Rev. Anthony F. Krisak, STD, PNCEA director of training and online services

• Text (required): From Maintenance to Mission: Evangelization and the Revitalization of the Parish by Rev. Robert S. Rivers, CSP. (Item 0310, It will take about one week for the book to be delivered.)

• Dates: September 10-December 2, 2007 (Sessions will open on the Monday of each week and remain open 24/7 until the end of the course.)

• Registration: $240.00 plus text.

Each week participants read a chapter of the text (must be purchased separately), view instructor input, post responses to online questions, read and respond to the input of the other participants. Plan to devote two to three hours per week (all at once or broken up into smaller time segments) to complete the reading and participate in session activities. Participants who contribute to each week’s discussion will receive a certificate at the end of the course.

Item 8151 The Paulist Evangelization Training Institute (PETI) will offer its online course Go and Make Disciples from September 10-October 21, 2007. The six-week Go and Make Disciples (GMD)Study/Discussion course is recommended for pastoral staff members and volunteer leaders (pastoral councils, evangelization committees) who are looking for a way to get started in advancing the mission of evangelization in their parish. In the first part of the course, participants will gain a basic understanding of the foundational documents of Catholic evangelization (see required texts below). In the second part, participants will examine evangelization in their own parish in light of the three goals of GMD and draft a plan of action for their own parish. Participants are encouraged to do the planning activities in the second half of the course with representative staff and interested parishioners. Each of these will also need a copy of the Planning Worksheets (see below). In the future, you will also be able to use the content and process of this course in your parish with those who will be implementing the goals of GMD with you. Registrations accepted until 5:00 pm EDT, September 6, 2007.

• Instructor: Sr. Susan Wolf, SND, PNCEA Executive Director and creator of Planning Worksheets for Goals I, II and III of Go and Make Disciples.

o Item 0452 Go and Make Disciples: A National Plan and Strategy for Catholic Evangelization in the Tenth Anniversary Edition;

o Item 0400 On Evangelization in the Modern World; and

o Item 0205 Planning Worksheets for Goals I, II and III of Go and Make Disciples: A National Plan and Strategy for Catholic Evangelization in the U.S

• Dates: September 10-October 21, 2007. Weekly lessons will open on the Monday of each week and remain open 24/7 until the end of the course.

• Registration: $150 plus texts.

Would you like a Daily Meditation from Henri Nouwen in your E-mail box?

2007-08-16T09:52:00.001-05:00

The Henri Nouwen Society provides a free daily meditation for anyone who would like to receive it. The meditations are short but thought provoking. The meditations are based on the works of noted author and spiritual guide Henri Nouwen.

Follow the link below if you are interested!

http://www.henrinouwen.org/

The Baptismal Catechumenate: What is it?

2007-08-14T10:30:00.000-05:00

In recent months there has been more conversation about the Baptismal Catechumenate as the Inspiration for all Catechesis. Many people have been asking what that means for what we are already doing in our faith formation sessions.

On Saturday, November 10th, Jerry Galipeau from World Library Publicaitons in Chicago will be with us in Stuart of a full day workshop that will help all involved in faith formation to better understand what the Baptismal Catechumenate has to offer all of us in our ministry and in our parish life. Plan now to attend!

For more information, please visit the diocesan web site at www.dmdiocese.org then follow the link for FAITH FORMATION!

Spanish Classes set to Begin!

2007-08-14T10:29:00.000-05:00

Here is a great opportunity for learning Spanish—to begin or to continue!
The sessions include both speaking and reading Spanish.

Three special series—each series will meet for five weeks—
begins on Monday, September 10.

Each series will meet on Mondays, 7:00-8:30 PM, at the Pastoral Center, 601 Grand Ave.
Cost for each 5-week series is $25 (plus books if needed).
You may register for one or more of these series.

Series #1: food, cultures and customs of five Latin American countries.
Series #2: praying in Spanish—learning the liturgy, songs and the scriptures in Spanish
Series #3: Christmas in Mexico—the festivals and customs of Mexico marking Advent and Christmas

A special invitation is extended to parish staffs, school faculties and catechists. The series are also open to all interested persons.

For more information, contact the faith formation department (237-5058; formation@dmdiocese.org).

A Quote from Timothy Radcliffe!

2007-06-06T13:38:00.000-05:00

Clearly a big challenge for Christianity is how to remain in contact with the millions of people who look for God but do not come to Church. Timothy Radcliffe

Father Timothy Radcliffe, O.P. will be speaking in Iowa City in March, 2008. His presentation in Iowa is being cosponsored by the Diocese of Des Moines along with the Archdiocese of Dubuque and the Diocese of Davenport. For more information, visit the diocesan website at www.dmdiocese.org then click FAITH FORMATION!

Hope to see you there!

Father Timothy Radcliffe Coming to Iowa!

2007-05-31T09:54:00.000-05:00

Father Timothy Radclilffe, O.P.

Father Timothy Radcliffe, O.P. will be engaging us in conversation and reflection in March of 2008 in Iowa City. This opportunity is open for all and is cosponsored by the Archdiocese of Dubuque and the dioceses of Davenport and Des Moines.

Father Timothy is the former major superior of his religious community. He is an internationally known speaker and retreat leader. One of his most recent books, What is the Point of Being a Christian, has been well received and will form the basis of a good portion of his conversation in March.

For more information regarding this formative opportunity, please visit the website of the Diocese of Des Moines at www.dmdiocese.org and click "faith formation."

Lenter Offerings at Emmaus House!

2007-02-20T11:08:00.000-06:00

t Home Retreat for Seniors
Dates: (Tuesdays) March 6, 13, 20, 27 and April 3 2007
Theme: Praying with the Passion of Jesus
Time: 10:00 a.m.-11:30 a.m.
Fee: $10.00 per session or $50.00 for the series
(Pray at home daily and share faith with others on the journey.)

Catholic Singles’ Retreat
Date: March 10, 2007
Theme: Prayer: Neither informed nor convinced
Time: 9-Noon, Fee: $15.00
(Continental breakfast included)

Lenten Reflections
Theme: “Pray that you may not undergo the test” (Lk.22:40)
Date: March 17, 2007
Time: 9-1 p.m.; Fee: $25.00
(Continental breakfast included)
*Nonrefundable deposit of $15.00 requested with registration

An Introduction to Centering Prayer
Date: April 28, 2007
Time: 9-3:00 p.m.; Fee: $35.00
(Continental breakfast & lunch are included)
*Nonrefundable deposit of $15.00 requested with registration

***To register for these retreats please call: 515-282-4839

Lenten Resource for Small Group Faith Sharing Available!

2007-02-16T10:13:00.000-06:00

Each year, Fr. John Ludwig, pastor of St. John the Apostle in Norwalk, Iowa provides a terrific little Lenten resource to assist small groups in focusing on the Sunday Lectionary. If you would like a copy of the material Fr. John has prepared for this year, simply email Cheryl Fournier at cfournier@dmdiocese.org. It will be forwarded to you as a WORD DOCUMENT.

LITURGY, THE 'FONT and SUMMIT' of Faith Formation

2007-02-16T09:32:00.000-06:00

Liturgy, The ‘Font and Summit’ of Faith Formation

Liturgy Resource Day Workshop

With Father Michael Joncas, author, teacher, and composer of liturgical music (On Eagles Wings; As Morning Breaks;Holy Is God, Holy and Strong; Praise His Name; O Healing River, just to name a few)

Saturday March 10, 2007
All Saints Parish Center, Stuart, IA
9:00 AM-2:30PM
Registration & Hospitality 8:30 AM
Lunch Included

Registration $25.00 per person
After March 2nd, add $5

For brochure or to register

Office of Faith Formation • Diocese of Des Moines
601 Grand Avenue • Des Moines, IA 50309-2501
515/237-5058 • formation@dmdiocese.org
www.dmdiocese.org

REGIONAL MEETINGS SCHEDULED

2007-02-12T14:29:00.000-06:00

There will be 8 regional gatherings around the Diocese to discuss and break open the recently promulgated Pastoral Plan for Catechesis. Bishop Charron has called for these gatherings so that those who serve in leadership capacities throughout the Diocese will have an opportunity to interact with the staff and members of the Diocesan Council for Catechesis as they together live into the plan. Dates and locations are listed below. RSVPs are necessary so that materials and refreshments may be prepared accordingly.

March 13 Council Bluffs Queen of Apostles
March 15 W. Des Moines St. Francis
March 15 Anita St. Mary
March 19 Creston Holy Spirit
March 20 Harlan St. Michael
March 26 Osceola St. Bernard
March 27 Des Moines All Saints
April 12 Red Oak St. Mary

God, Can You Hear Me Now>

2007-01-03T13:18:00.000-06:00

God, Can You Hear Me Now?
Prayer is an essential element of our relationship with God, yet many people struggle with their prayer life. During this day, we will experience different ways of praying that will include the use of scripture, contemplative forms of prayer, journaling and praying with others. We will also explore different aspects of the spiritual journey from writers like Teresa of Avila, John of the Cross, and Thomas Merton. Bring a bible and come prepared to take a journey into prayer!
Presented by David Butel, Pastoral Associate and Spiritual Director at St. Thomas More Parish in Kansas City, MO. Many will recognize David as a former spiritual director and instructor at St. Joseph’s Education Center in Des Moines.

Saturday, February 10
9 AM to 1 PM
Continental breakfast & snacks provided.

St. Francis of Assisi Parish
7075 Ashworth Road
West Des Moines

Large Meeting Room

Please call 223-4577 to sign up. There is no charge for this workshop.

Iowa Institute for Social Action

2006-12-05T09:30:00.000-06:00

The annual Iowa Institute for Social Action is to be held on Sunday and Monday, Jan. 14th and 15th, at Our Lady’s Immaculate Heart Church in Ankeny. John Carr, head of the U.S. bishops’ conference’s department on social development and world peace, will be the keynote speaker both days. This is a great way to learn about social justice in the Catholic Church! Breakout sessions include “how to’s” for forming a parish social action ministry, Rachel’s Ministries, the Iraq war, the ethics of stem cell research, food and farm policy, energy and climate change and more. The cost is $40 (including a dinner and awards banquet). Visit www.iowasocialaction.org or call (515) 237-5041 for more information. The workshop is sponsored by the Iowa Catholic Conference, the four dioceses of Iowa and the Catholic Campaign for Human Development.

Free Podcasts for Advent from Fr. Ron Rolheiser!

2006-12-04T11:22:00.001-06:00

FREE DAILY ADVENT REFLECTIONS FROM RON ROLHEISER!Beginning Sunday December 3, 2006 through the end of Advent Oblate Media is
“Pod Casting”
"Daybreaks: Daily Reflections for Advent and Christmas,"
Written by Oblate Father Ron Rolheiser. Go to our homepage at
http://www.videoswithvalues.org/

Just click on the words, "Click here.” You’ll be taken directly to the pod-cast. Click on today's date and you'll hear today's reflection. You may also listen to any previously posted reflection by clicking on those dates. If you click on "Subscribe"and fill out the short form, you will receive a daily email reminder that a new Advent reflection is up and ready to download.

JANUARY THAW SCHEDULE SET!

2006-12-04T09:36:00.000-06:00

January Thaw is coming. Come join our interfaith educational opportunities on January 16 and 23rd at Dowling High School. The Des Moines Area Religious Council, the Jewish Federation and St. Joseph Educational Center are pleased to offer the following courses for your midwinter fellowship and educational enjoyment.

TUESDAY COURSES – JAN. 16 - 7:00 – 9:00 P.M.

EXPLORING THE CREATION STORY FROM A JEWISH PERSPECTIVE
Rabbi David Kaufman, Temple B’nai Jeshurun

AN INTRODUCTION TO THE MUSLIM WORLD
Imam Ibrahim Dremali, The Islamic Center of DM

SYMBOLS IN CLAY Teri Breck, Art Instructor at Dowling Catholic High School (this class will be limited to 15 participants)

IMMIGRATION: A QUESTION OF FAITH
James Benzoni, Attorney

FINISHING WELL – A MEDICAL AND LEGAL PERSPECTIVE Dr. Norma Hirsch, Associate Medical Director of Hospice of Central Iowa; Ms.Deanna Clingan-Fischer, Attorney Iowa Dept. of Elder Affairs

TUESDAY COURSES – JAN. 23 - 7:00 – 9:00 P.M.

THE THIRD GOSPEL WITH THE THIRD WORLD Father Jim Laurenzo, St. Catherine of Sienna

COMMANDMENTS OF THE LORD: HOW THE MITZVOT ARE ORGANIZED Mark Finkelstein, Executive Director, Jewish Community Relations Commission

AN EXAMINATION OF THE RELIGION CLAUSES IN THE FIRST AMENDMENT
Dr. Dennis Goldford, Political Science Professor, Drake University

FINISHING WELL – RELIGIOUS PERSPECTIVES
A panel of religious leader

COMBINED TUESDAY COURSES - JAN. 16 & 23 – 7:00 – 9:00 P.M.

MUSIC DIVERSITY WORKSHOP (Jan. 16) Elsie Naylor, Director of the Diversity Chorus and Music Director of the Urbandale United Church of Christ
MUSIC WITHIN THE JEWISH TRADITION (Jan. 23) Laura Berkson, Cantorial Soloist, Temple B’nai
Jeshurun

YOUTH AND MEDIA: CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITY FOR PARENTS AND FAMILY
(Jan 16) Daniel K. Miller, Executive Director and General Manager of IPTV
(Jan. 23) Craig Anderson, PhD Psychology ISU
SPANISH CONVERSATION FOR FUN AND FRIENDSHIP
Stephanie Ayres, Adult Education and substitute teacher, DM Public Schools

CONTEMPORARY PERSPECTIVES ON SPIRITUALITY AND HEALTH
Kathy Adams, ARNP,HNC; Jim Bell, MD; Kathry Reardon, RN, CHTP

ENNEAGRAM Marcie Sheaffe

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
REGISTRATION: JANUARY THAW 2007

NAME _________________________________________ _____
I wish to be a Volunteer _____ Tuesday (1/16) ____ Tuesday (1/23)

Address_________________________________________

City/State/Zip____________________________

Telephone ______________________

E-mail address _______________________________________________________

Place of Worship (if applicable)

Send me future brochures by __ E-mail __Postal

COURSE – January 16: COURSE - January 23

______________________________________

______________________________________

COMBINED Sessions Fee enclosed $_______ ($20 Registration Fee)

Make check payable to January Thaw Mail To:

Des Moines Area Religious Council
3816 36th St.

For more Information telephone: 277-6969 Des Moines, IA 50310

Refreshments provided by Zanzibar’s Coffee, 2723 Ingersoll Ave.

JANUARY THAW--January 16 & 23, 2007

2006-10-06T12:26:00.000-05:00

gdmsiListed below you will find the slate of presentations to be offered at this year's modified January Thaw. The event will be held at Dowling Catholic High School in West Des Moines. Registration information will be available soon!

Introduction to Language
Contemporary Perspectives on Spirituality and Health
Finishing Well - A Medical & Legal Perspective
Finishing Well - Religious Perspective
Creation and its interpretations in Judaism
Christian Scriptures
Sharia Laws
Mitzvot
Workshop on Diversity Chorus
Music
Symbols in Clay
An Examination of the Religion Clauses in the First Amendment
Immigration Issues
Enneagram
Media and Youth: Issues and Challenges
Appropriate Viewing Habits for Children

DAYTON SCHEDULE UPDATED

2006-10-04T10:52:00.000-05:00

The schedule for online courses available through the University of Dayton’s Virtual Learning Community for Faith Formation is available on their website at http://vlc.udayton.edu/. Simple access the site and click courses and then calendar!

AFF Coordinator's Meeting Schedule and Notes!

2006-10-04T10:44:00.000-05:00

Good Morning,
It was good to be able to spend time with some of you yesterday at St. Theresa’s. For those unable to join us, know that you were missed.

Below please find the dates, times and locations for the future gatherings of the Adult Faith Formation Coordinators group.

JANUARY 11, 2007 Waukee, St. Boniface 10:00 am-12 noon

MARCH 8, 2007 Altoona, SS. John and Paul 10:00 am- 12 noon

MAY 10, 2007 Ankeny, Amy Hoover’s home….labyrinth Time tba

There was discussion at the meeting about the draft of the 5 year Master Plan for Catechesis in the diocese. This draft and the consultation report form were sent to you via email prior to the meeting. Please forward any comments regarding the plan, using the report form, to me by the end of next week (Friday, October 13)

Additionally, we had a good discussion about our joining in with the Catechetical Leaders Association of the Diocese of Des Moines (CLADD) group and participating in their regularly scheduled meetings. The group seemed to be in consensus that joining in those gatherings would be beneficial for us as AFF coordinators and for the folks whose primary ministry is the catechesis of children. The next scheduled meeting for the CLADD group is in November. More information will follow.

Please consider participating in the ZENI FOX workshop on October 19th at All Saints parish in Stuart. Registration information is available on the web. http://www.dmdiocese.org/files/documents/1072_1%20zeni%20fox%20flyer.pdf As lay ecclesial ministers in the church today, I am sure you will find her presentation inspiring and renewing. I would love to see you all there!

RCIA ICN SESSION

2006-09-26T09:27:00.000-05:00

To: Parishes in the Des Moines area

This is a reminder about the ICN session this Thursday evening, for RCIA coordinators and team members in the diocese---

All RCIA coordinators and directors of the diocese are invited to an evening of conversation about adult initiation:

Thursday, September 28
7:00 to 9:00 PM
via the Iowa Communications Network (ICN)

The focus for the conversation:

What are the resources RCIA coordinators and teams need, to improve skills and procedures?
How can we network with one another, for the benefit of all?

Please forward this reminder to the RCIA coordinator and team members of your parish.

{In the Des Moines area, the ICN site will be at the Diocesan Pastoral Center, 6th and Grand, DM.
Participants may park on the streets or in the diocesan parking lot (across 6th Ave. from the pastoral center).}

University of Dayton on-line courses for 2007

2006-09-06T12:56:00.000-05:00

The calendar is set! Course options are listed!
A cyber-world of faith formation opportunities exists from the comfort of your own home...sit with your slippers on your feet and a hot cup of coffee in the wee hours of the morning or relax at the end of the day and feed your soul from the comfort of your deck...the technology is user-friendly and the atmosphere created is truly of a community gathered...check it out today!

RCIA Sponsor Workshop

2006-09-06T12:54:00.000-05:00

Here’s advance word of an upcoming RCIA workshop in the diocese:

“RCIA Sponsors and Godparents: Inviting them, Supporting them, Forming them”
Saturday, November 4, 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM
Sr. Gael Gensler will be the presenter.
Registration fee: $20/person, or $50 for three or more from the same parish

Creighton Ministry Program

2006-08-07T15:13:00.000-05:00

Office of Lay Ecclesial Ministry, Diocese of Des Moines • formation@dmdiocese.org • 515/237-5026

Diocese of Des Moines and Creighton University
now co-sponsor the Certificate Program in Ministry

“Reading the Old Testament”—
the Fall 2006 course for the Certificate Program—
begins August 25!

The Creighton Certificate Program in Ministry, supported by the St. Joseph Educational Center since 1986, is now
co-sponsored by Creighton University and the Diocese of Des Moines. In this way, the Certificate Program will be
a valuable resource to even more parishes and pastoral ministers throughout the diocese.

This mailing provides up-to-date information about the certificate program and its Fall 2006 course.
Enclosed is a brochure about this fall’s course, “Reading the Old Testament.” The course will be taught by Fr. Jim Laurenzo, a former director of St. Joseph Educational Center and currently pastor of St. Catherine of Siena Catholic Student Center at Drake University.

Dates for the course, “Reading the Old Testament”

Registration and the first class session will be Friday, August 25. You may register between 5:00 and 6:00 pm; the class session will be held 6:00 to 9:00 pm that same evening.

The class will continue on six Saturdays, including the next day—Saturday, August 26. The additional Saturdays are: September 16, September 30, October 28, November 11 and December 2.

The September 30 class session will be held through the ICN (Iowa Communications Network).

Location for the class sessions

The class sessions will be held at All Saints parish center, Stuart. The new parish center provides a comfortable setting for the sessions and enables people from various parts of the diocese to participate more easily. (The one exception is the September 30 session; it will be held through the ICN—Iowa Communications Network.
Various ICN sites that are conveniently located will be reserved for that day.)

Two books required for the course

There are two texts for this course: (a) Reading the Old Testament: An Introduction by Lawrence Boadt and
(b) The Catholic Study Bible, Second Edition, Donald Senior and John J. Collins, editors.

Students need to order these books in advance; they are available at discount through online services such as Amazon or Borders.

—Over—

Tuition and fees, scholarship, matching funds

Creighton’s tuition rate and registration fee for the course are:
Tuition, for credit: $298 per credit hour (for a 3-credit course, $894)
Tuition for audit: $149 per credit hour (for a 3-credit course, $447)
In addition, the registration fee is $78.

Scholarship for students registering for credit.To each person registering for credit, Creighton provides a Wes Wolfe Scholarship, in the amount of $125.
Matching funds for parish support.We encourage registrants to approach their parish communities about sharing the cost of the cost, since your participation in the Certificate Program will benefit the parish and its ministries. When a parish shares in the costs for this course, the diocese will match that amount to a maximum of $100.

Summary of the costs for the Fall 2006 course:
If for credit, tuition and fees— $972 (tuition plus registration fee)
- $125 (Creighton’s Wes Wolfe scholarship)
- $100 (parish contribution, approx.)
- $100 (maximum diocesan matching funds)
= $647 actual tuition and fees
If for audit, tuition and fees— $525 (tuition plus registration fee)
- $100 (parish contribution, approx.)
- $100 (maximum diocesan matching funds)
= $325 actual tuition and fees

Please indicate if you intend to register for the course—

PLEASE INDICATE BY AUGUST 15 if you intend to register for the course “Reading the Old Testament.”

To do so, you may

Send an email message to formation@dmdiocese.org about each of two items:
“Yes, I plan to register for this Certificate Program in Ministry course, Reading the Old Testament”
and
“Yes, I will utilize the matching funds available to match my parish’s share in the cost.”

Please share word of the Certificate Program and this Fall 2006 course with others!

Is there someone else in your parish who would want to participate in this course and others? Share news about the Certificate Program and “Reading the Old Testament” with them! It’s easy to do. Here’s how:

Go to the diocesan web page— www.dmdiocese.org —and click the “Faith Formation” button. The Certificate Program brochure is posted there for viewing or printing.

Creighton University’s “Certificate Program in Ministry”

2006-07-13T15:46:00.000-05:00

For twenty years, Creighton University, Omaha, and St. Joseph Educational Center, West Des Moines, have co-sponsored a “Certificate in Ministry” program. This partnership has provided a valuable resource to the Des Moines area parishes and other parishes of the diocese, providing a cycle of theology and ministry courses. Through the twenty years, many teachers, catechists, DREs, youth ministers and pastoral ministers have utilized the Certificate program and its offerings.

For information and details about this opportunity to continue your growth in faith and leadership formation, please visit the diocesan website at www.dmdiocese.org/index.aspx?menuitemid=519

IRMS Educational Consultant Sought

2006-07-07T10:55:00.000-05:00

Iowa Religious Media Services is seeking qualified applicants for the position of Educational Consultant. IRMS is an Iowa-based ecumenical resource center providing access for its members to a collection with over 7500 titles in an assortment of media. The Educational Consultant performs a variety of duties including public relations and promotions, consultation with a multi-denominational client base regarding their resource needs, oversight of the screening and purchasing of new additions to the collection, and the maintenance of the IRMS web site as well as other IT functions.
A more detailed position description may be downloaded from this link. Salary is commensurate with experience.To learn more about this position and to apply, go to www.irms.org and click on the link under Employment Opportunity.
Iowa Religious Media Services is an important ministry of the Des Moines Diocese.

2006-06-14T13:24:00.000-05:00

Zeni Fox

Professor, Pastoral Theology,
Immaculate Conception Seminary, Seton Hall University

Varieties of Gifts, But the Same Spirit, Varieties of Ministries,
But the Same Lord (I Corinthians)

In the Church today, we have a renewed unfolding of this vision of ministry. Why is this so? What are the gifts of this moment? The challenges? We will explore answers to these questions, drawing on Scripture, Church documents (including Co-Workers in the Vineyard of the Lord) and the experience of lay and ordained leaders in the Diocese of Des Moines, and the church in the United States.

Thursday, October 19, 2006
9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
All Saint’s Parish Hall
216 All Saints Drive, Stuart, Iowa 50250

$25.00 per person, morning hospitality and lunch included

For more information: 515-237-5058
Email: formation@dmdiocese.org
Web: http://www.dmdiocese.org/
Then click “Faith Formation”

Zeni Fox workshop • registration form

Name:
First Last

Address: Street City State ZIP

Telephone: (______) (day) (______) (evening)

E-mail:

Parish:

¨ Register me for the October 19 workshop with author Zeni Fox @ $25.00 each

Send completed form and payment to:
Diocese of Des Moines, Faith Formation - Sherri
601 Grand Avenue, Des Moines, IA 50309

Ø Total Enclosed $__________

North American Forum on the Catechumenate Institute in Ankeny in July!

2006-05-18T09:11:00.000-05:00

Focus on Initiation: "Concerning the Baptized" RCIA resource days Co-sponsored with North American Forum on the Catechumenate and The Diocese of Des Moines, IA. Thursday-Saturday, July 20-22, 2006. Meeting Facility...Our Lady's Immaculate Heart Parish, 510 East First Street, Ankeny, IA 50021, 515/964-3038
Concerning all the baptized adults we welcome-
the Catholics preparing for confirmation,
the fellow Christians to be received into the Catholic communion,
the adults baptized but never formed as Christians-
Are they similar to the Catechumens, or different? Are their journeys to the Eucharist all the same?
Information and brochures...Department of Faith Formation, Diocese of Des Moines, 601 Grand Ave., Des Moines, IA 50309, www.dmdiocese.org then "Faith Formation" or formation@dmdiocese.org or 515/237-5058.

EDUCATIONAL CONSULTANT NEEDED FOR IRMS

2006-05-18T09:06:00.000-05:00

Iowa Religious Media Services is seeking qualified applicants for the position of Educational Consultant. IRMS is an Iowa-based ecumenical resource center providing access for its members to a collection with over 7500 titles in an assortment of media. The Educational Consultant performs a variety of duties including public relations and promotions, consultation with a multi-denominational client base regarding their resource needs, oversight of the screening and purchasing of new additions to the collection, and the maintenance of the IRMS web site as well as other I-T functions. A more detailed position description may be downloaded from this link. Salary is commensurate with experience.To learn more about this position and to apply, go to www.irms.org and click on the link under Employment Opportunity.

Sr. Diana Ortiz at Drake; St. Catherine's!

2006-04-20T10:38:00.000-05:00

Speaking Truth to Power: Confronting the Role of the
U.S. in Supporting Acts of Torture Around the Globe - Sr. Dianna Ortiz, OSU
Saturday, May 6, 2006
10am- 12 noon
St. Catherine of Siena Catholic Student Center
Drake Newman Community
1150 28th St.
Des Moines, Iowa
515-271-4747
After making her final vows as an Ursuline nun, Sister Dianna Ortiz became a missionary in Guatemala in 1987 and dedicated herself to teaching the Mayan children of San Miguel Acatan. This simple decision would place Dianna in the heart of unforeseen and incredible danger and alter the course of her life.
In Guatemala, while working with people who had been victimized by one of the most oppressive regimes of Latin America, she received warning to stop her work and to leave the country. She did not heed the warning. As a result, on November 2, 1989, she was abducted and forced to endure unspeakable horrors of torture. While under torture Sr. Dianna made a promise to those whose screams of pain she heard: "If I survive, I will never forget you. I will tell the world what I have seen and heard."
Despite grave personal suffering, Sr. Dianna did not succumb to her daily nightmares and flashbacks. Neither did she forsake the vow she had made in solidarity with the thousands of innocent Mayans and other Guatemalans who had suffered torture and murder. She has confronted her ordeal by speaking out against torture and seeking the truth about the extent of torture and murder, its perpetrators and the role of governments, both of Guatemala and the United States, by filing lawsuits, giving interviews, and testifying at length before investigators of multiple United States government agencies. In 2002, her courage and determination resulted in the publication of her memoir, _The Blindfold's Eyes: My Journey from Torture to Truth_. This enormously difficult task required reliving her nightmares to detail the shattering effects of torture on her life, and the lives of other victims, her long slow journey towards healing, and her efforts to bring her perpetrators to justice, while the governments of Guatemala and the United States sought to protect them.

Workshop at St. Joseph Educational Center Next Weekend!

2006-04-20T09:00:00.001-05:00

Program on Sacramental Healing
Saturday, April 29th
The St Joseph's Educational Center is pleased to present Fr. Bruce Morrill, S.J., of Boston College, on Saturday, April 29th, in the media center (library) of Dowling Catholic High School, 1400 Buffalo Road, West Des Moines. Fr. Morrill will be giving five, one-hour lectures on "Divine Worship and Human Healing.' The lectures begin at 9:00 a.m. There is a break for lunch (noon to 1:30), and the lectures resume from 1:30-3:30 p.m. The public is welcome to attend any or all of the lectures. Lunch is not provided. It is not necessary to pre-register; simply show up the day of the lectures. There is a suggested donation of $20, but no one will be turned away.

The gospels portray Jesus as a teacher and healer, two crucial activities entwined in his prophetic mission. Empowered by the Spirit of the Risen Christ, the Church continues the mission of glorifying God by witnessing to the paschal mystery revealed in the life-stories of human brokenness and healing-the very heart of the Christian liturgy. Divine Worship and Human Healing theologically unfolds how the people's pastoral-liturgical work of healing and reconciliation discloses God's love and mercy amidst the community of faith. Engaging such concerns as forgiveness, illness, grieving, and death, the class explores the type of knowledge about God and the human condition that emerges in practicing the Rite of Penance, Pastoral Care of the Sick, and Order of Christian Funerals.

Triduum and Easter Blessings

2006-04-11T11:56:00.000-05:00

Praying that you, your families and your faith communities know the blessings of God in real and profound ways this season. As a friend and colleague of mine in Madison, Wisconsin said in an email today, "Let us claim the resurrection!"

Blessings
Cheryl

You're Invited!

2006-04-11T11:55:00.000-05:00

You are invited to participate in an Easter retreat day, "Many gifts, but the same Spirit." Sponsored by the Diocese, this retreat day is especially for people engaged in pastoral ministries and leadership with their parish communities.

The retreat day will be held Saturday, April 29, at Creighton Retreat Center, near Griswold. There will be hospitality from 8:30 a.m., opening prayer at 9:30 a.m., and the day will conclude by 3:00 p.m.

The retreat day will be led by Marie Hilton, director of liturgical ministry and formation at Creighton University, Originally from Shenandoah, Marie was pastoral minister at Queen of Apostles parish, Council Bluffs, before joining the campus ministry staff at Creighton.

Pre register by April 21, by email (formation@dmdiocese.org) or by telephone (515/237-5058). There is no fee for the retreat day; a donation for lunch will be accepted.

A flyer about the retreat day is available on the diocesan web site: Go to www.dmdiocese.org, then click "Faith Formation." For more information, contact the Office of Lay Ministry Formation (515/237-5058).

St. John's Bible Presentation in Ankeny!

2006-02-21T12:12:00.000-06:00

Sunday, March 5, 6:00pm in the Banquet Room at Our Lady’s Immaculate Heart Church in Ankeny we will be exploring the Illuminated Bible, the first handwritten Bible in 500 years. Brian Woods from Liturgical Press will be here to give a presentation and we will have on hand a full size reproduction of Gospels and Acts and some of the Illuminations from the Pentateuch. The Bible is written in beautiful calligraphy and wonderfully illustrated. Contact Amy Hoover at 964-3038, amy@olih.org for more information.

ILLUMINATING THE WORD

2006-02-06T14:33:00.000-06:00

An exhibition of the illuminated Bible
now through Easter Sunday, April 16
at the Joslyn Art Museum, Omaha

Since March 2000, scribes and artists in Wales have been meticulously handcrafting The Saint John’s Bible, the first illuminated Bible commissioned since the advent of the printing press more than 500 years ago. Commissioned by Saint John’s University and Abbey, Collegeville, Minnesota, and under the artistic direction of Donald Jackson, one of the world’s foremost calligraphers, the Saint John’s Bible and this exhibition offer a glimpse at the process of incorporating ancient art forms with modern techniques in a celebration of the traditional arts
of bookmaking and modern science and sensibility.

While the manuscript is still in progress, this exhibition gives a revealing glimpse of the tremendous undertaking and celebrates book, art, and scripture. Illuminating the Word features nearly 100 pages from the first three finished volumes (Gospels and Acts, Pentateuch, and Psalms) of The Saint John’s Bible. The pages selected for the exhibition display the exquisite contemporary renderings and medieval craftsmanship of this project, scheduled for completion in 2007. Additional items in the exhibition are Jackson’s process sketches, tools from his scriptorium in Wales, as well as other manuscripts, Bibles, and art from special collections at Saint John’s University.

Admission to Illuminating the Word: The Saint John’s Bible is included in general Joslyn Museum admission. Groups of 10 or more with reservations receive a discount of more than 20%. All school groups with reservations are free. Call (402) 342-3300 ext. 206 or e-mail groupsales@joslyn.org.

General Museum admission: $7 Adults, $5 Senior citizens (62+) and college students (with ID),
$4 Youth (5-17), Free children four and younger and Joslyn members.
Free admission on Saturdays from 10 am to noon

Hours: Tuesday through Saturday, 10 am-4 pm; Sunday, noon- 4 pm;

closed Mondays.

Guided tours: Docent-led public tours of the exhibition, free with admission, are offered on the following dates:
Wednesdays (Jan. 25; Feb. 1, 15; Mar. 1, 15, 29; Apr. 12) and Saturdays (Jan. 28; Feb. 11, 25; Mar. 11, 25; Apr. 8).
Tours meet in the atrium just prior to 1:00 PM.

Extensive resource materials are available for congregations, catechists, schools, groups:

Teacher packets: Contact the Joslyn Museum: 402/342-3300, extension 250
DVDs and videotapes: available through IRMS, 515/277-2920 or www.irms.org
Materials online: www.saintjohnsbible.org or www.joslyn.org/index.html

Stations of the Cross Resource from Joann Kimmel

2006-02-06T10:59:00.000-06:00

At the last CLADD East gathering, Joann Kimmel mentioned a resource that she wanted to share. The link for the Stations of the Cross and Gifts of the Spirit she was speaking about is www.cornerstonemedia.org. (This is the same group that Anna Scally works with...see the previous posting about Anna)

IRMS Celebrations in April and August

2006-02-03T12:04:00.000-06:00

This year marks the 20th anniversary of Iowa Religious Media Services, the ecumenical media resource that serves many of the main line Protestant denominations in the state of Iowa as well as the Catholic Diocese of Des Moines. April 30, 2006 there will be a re-covenanting service, whereby the congregations and denominations who partner to create IRMS will commit again to this ecumenical project.

On August 26th there will be another opportunity to celebrate as IRMS presents a formational opportunity with appeal to everyone who serves the ministry of faith formation. More information will be available on the IRMS website soon. Please visit www.irms.org for additional information.

Lenten Resources

2006-02-03T11:13:00.000-06:00

Here are two resources for individuals, parishes and groups in the season of Lent. Both provide a good process for faith sharing and prayer by groups large or small; both are simple to use and inexpensive. An added advantage: both are built around the Sunday lectionary's readings for Lent, cycle B.

1. Annual Lenten issue of Today's Parish magazine. This year's Lenten issue is called “Renewing Our Covenant with God.” The sections include one focused on Ash Wednesday, one for each of the six Sundays of Lent, and an introduction to Triduum. (In addition, reflections based upon the lectionary cycle A readings for Sundays 3, 4, and 5-used when the scrutiny rites for the Elect are celebrated-are also provided.)
This annual Lenten issue by Today's Parish is widely used and 'user friendly.' It can be utilized by an individual or a small group. It can even be the framework for one or more large group session/ soup supper during Lent.
Cost: less than 100 copies, $2.49 each; 100-250 copies, $2.29 each.
For a free sample or to order, contact Twenty-third Publications-
email ttpuvs@aol.com
web www.twentythirdpublications.com
FAX 800/572-0788
phone 800/321-0411

2. Weekly group resource written by Fr. John Ludwig (St. John Parish, Norwalk). This process is intended for small-group use during the season of Lent. The materials include a weekly direction for the group convener or leader; a sign up form for distribution; the weekly Sunday lectionary's readings for cycle B; reflection questions and prayer materials for the group session. It can be utilized by a small group and can even be the framework for one or more large group session/soup supper during Lent.

Cost: available free of charge to parishes and staffs.
Sent electronically (31-page WORD document) as E-mail attachment.
To receive the file, send an E-mail request to: cfournier@dmdiocese.org or
Father Ludwig

North American Forum on the Catechumenate Opportunity

2006-01-31T15:39:00.000-06:00

Thursday-Saturday, July 20-22, 2006

“Concerning the Baptized”

A Christian initiation institute
with North American Forum on the Catechumenate

Concerning all the baptized adults we welcome—
§ the Catholics preparing for confirmation,
§ the fellow Christians to be received into the Catholic communion,
§ the adults baptized but never formed as Christians—

Are they similar to the Catechumens, or different?

Are their journeys to the Eucharist all the same?

— Information and brochures —
Department of Faith Formation • Diocese of Des Moines • 601 Grand Ave., Des Moines, IA 50309
http://www.dmdiocese.org/, then “Faith Formation” • formation@dmdiocese.org • 515/237-5058

Sr. Donna Steffen here in March!

2006-01-31T15:34:00.000-06:00

For RCIA Coordinators, Catechists, Sponsors & Teams —
“Discerning Disciples”

An afternoon workshop with Sr. Donna Steffen, S.C.
Author of Discerning Disciples: Listening for God’s Voice in Christian Initiation

Sunday, March 19, 2006 • 1:00 – 5:00 PM
St. Mary of Nazareth Parish Center, DM
Registration fee $15

Sr. Donna Steffen, S.C. is an educator and spiritual director in Cincinnati and a member of the North American Forum on the Catechumenate. She has been a director and consultant for Christian initiation on a parish, diocesan, and national level.

Christian Initiation presentation with Gerard Ausitn, O.P

2006-01-30T13:21:00.001-06:00

Christian Initiation - Fr. Gerard Austin, O.P.
Saturday, February 4, 2006
9am-12 noon
Dowling Catholic
High School Media Center

($20 suggested donation but no one will be turned away)

The sacraments of Christian initiation whereby one becomes a Christian - baptism, confirmation, and first communion - have undergone significant changes throughout the Church's history.We will begin by examining the roots of Christian initiatory practice in the Hebrew Scriptures and the New Testament and the unified rite of the early Church, including the catechumenate and the question of infant baptism.
The unified rite of the early Church, however, suffered disintegration: communion was separated from initiation, the interval between birth and baptism was significantly shortened, and the interval between baptism and confirmation dramatically increased.
The liturgical reforms of the twentieth century renewed the catechumenate as the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA), but questions remain concerning the sacrament of confirmation, the present attempt at "Restored Order," and what role the eucharist will play in future developments in Christian initiation.

Fr. Gerard Austin, a priest of the Order of Preachers (Dominicans), holds a doctorate in liturgical studies from l'Institut Catholique de Paris. He teaches at The Rice School for Pastoral Ministry in the Diocese of Venice in Florida. Previously he taught for thirty years at The Catholic University of America. Fr. Austin is a past president of the North American Academy of Liturgy and the 2002 recipient of the University of Notre Dame's Michael Mathis Award. He is the author of Anointed with the Spirit: The Rite of Confirmation (Liturgical Press/Pueblo Books, 1986), and editor of Fountain of Life: NPM Studies in Liturgy and Church Music (Pastoral Press, 1991), as well as numerous book chapters and articles concerning the sacraments of initiation and ministry.

Information regarding Anna Scally

2006-01-29T14:42:00.000-06:00

At the most recent CLADD meeting in Urbandale, folks were asking about good Catholic media for youth. I mentioned dj and speaker, Anna Scally. Here is the information you were asking about that day!

Anna Scally is the President of Cornerstone Media, Inc., in Santa Rosa, California. Anna is an inspiring workshop and youth rally speaker, youth ministry training consultant, and a disc jockey.
She is a columnist for Cornerstone Media’s Top Music Countdown quarterly poster, and also the host for the audio show Burning Issues, dealing with relevant youth topics. She was M.C. of the catechetical sessions for 77,000 young people at Mile High Stadium in Denver for World Youth Day.

Cornerstone Media, Inc. P.O. Box 6236Santa Rosa, CA 95406, USA

Phone: (707) 542-8273Fax: (707) 542-8278Email: cormedia@aol.com

Fr. Ron Rolheiser here in April!

2006-01-12T16:14:00.000-06:00

We are pleased to be able to welcome author, spiritual director and internationally known speaker Fr. Ron Rolheiser to the Gateway Center in Ames, Iowa April 2-3, 2006. This event is being cosponsored by the 4 Iowa Dioceses. The conference title is The Community of Disciples in a Complex Time. More information is available by following the link http://www.dmdiocese.org/files/documents/468_brochure%20dm.pdf .

We on the diocesan faith formation staff believe Fr. Rolheiser's presentation will challenge and encourage each of us on our personal journey and all of us on our collective journey. Please consider adding this event to your THINGS TO DO THIS LENT list!

Retreat Opportunity with author, Kathy Coffey

2006-01-09T11:28:00.000-06:00

Kathy Coffey, mother of four, author, presenter, retreat leader will join us for the annual retreat for Catechetical Leaders (and others) looking for God in the midst of winter’s sometimes barren days. Kathy will share with us her wit and wisdom, humor and humanity, sensitivities to the spirit and sense of the sacred in all of life’s moments.

Her many printed works include:
Immersed in the Sacred: Discovering the “Small S” Sacraments; Hidden Women of the Gospels; God in the Moment: Making Everyday a Prayer; Women of Mercy; and Experiencing God With Your Children

Proposed Schedule

Thursday, February 9

9:30 am Gather
10:00 am Session One
Noon Lunch
1:00 pm Session Two
6:00 pm Dinner
7:30 pm CLADD Meeting and Social

Friday, February 10

8:00 am Breakfast
9:00 am Session Three
Noon Closing Prayer

The retreat will include time for input as well as time for personal reflection.

Room reservations are the responsibility of each participant. Please contact the Hotel Pattee and be sure to mention the Diocese of Des Moines.

Room charge is $119.00 + tax
Hotel Pattee
1112 Willis Avenue
Perry, Iowa 50220
www.hotelpattee.com
1.888.424.4286 or
1.515.465.6511

Cost for the retreat, including food, materials and social is $60.00 per person.

Registration fee increases $10.00
February 1, 2006

Contact Sherri Simmer, secretary for Faith Formation to obtain a registration form at ssimmer@dmdiocese.org or 515.237.5058.

The Chronicals of Narnia

2006-01-03T11:26:00.000-06:00

(A colleague of mine in another Diocese created this synopsis and the questions for discussion; I post them here for your reflection and use)

THE CHRONICLES OF NARNIA: THE LION, THE WITCH, AND THE WARDROBE

“Contemporary Communications media do not merely transmit information, they generate visual, audible, emotional, and in some cases, entirely virtual experiences for individuals and communities. Well-planned catechesis must employ these media so that the message of Jesus Christ can be effectively communicated in the real circumstances and culture of those who seek him.” National Directory for Catechesis, p. 287

On December 9, 2005, Disney will release The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe. For many this will provide an opportunity to revisit an enchanting story that they read as children or adults, but for many others it will be their first time visiting the world of Narnia. The Christian author of this eight book series is C.S. Lewis. Those who have read the series know that the books touched the depths of their lives, helped them to learn about good and evil, and develop new insights about the power and meaning of salvation.

Through imaginative stories, C.S. Lewis, with his knowledge of Jesus Christ and the biblical imagination, helps people to grow in their understanding of many truths found in the scriptures. The Chronicles of Narnia will help children and adults grow in their understanding of some of the great theological and spiritual truths of our Catholic faith.

The Chronicles of Narnia are about the adventures of Edmund and Lucy, and their coming to know Aslan the lion. In The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe, C.S. Lewis wrote: “In reality however he (Aslan) is an invention giving an imaginary answer to the question, ‘What might Christ become like, if there were a world like Narnia and He chose to be incarnate and die and rise again in that world as He has done in ours.” C.S. Lewis in A Letter to A Friend.

The story begins when Peter, Susan, Edmund and Lucy tumble into the land of Narnia through a mysterious wardrobe, into a world of talking beasts, dwarfs and other wonderful creatures. The children discover that Narnia is in bondage, held captive by the evil White Witch, who made it winter all the time. There were prophecies about the end of the Witch’s reign when Aslan the great Lion, Son of the Emperor-Beyond the Sea, would return to Narnia. Upon reading, a story in a story is discovered for the story is really about the Gospel and our salvation. It’s a story of a personal salvation, sacrifice, redemption, restoration, and reconciliation. The story also shows the power of sin and its consequences, and how important it is to have a reverence of God.

There are many spiritual treasures to be discovered in reading the book, viewing the movie, and having family or small group discussions. The movie is a great opportunity to help families and parishioner use the media in a positive way to discover spiritual truths and ways to grow in their Catholic faith.

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Discussion questions for: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe

What did you like best about the film or book?

How does the film or book relate to your own experiences of good and evil?
What stories of scripture does this story relate to?

Do some of the characters in the movie relate to Biblical characters? Who and why?

Have you had experiences that mean more than meet the eye, where the truth is discovered in the meaning and not the facts?

What are the consequences of sin, or how would you define sin and its effects in the Christian community?

Which aspect of the story relates to your experience of good and evil?

Which character in the story do you like best and why?

Why is it difficult for people to admit wrong? What would happen if people could be open about their mistakes and not hide them?

Sacrifice means doing something for another and not expecting something in return. We often sacrifice for others in our daily lives. What are some examples of how people sacrifice for others? What are some of the fruits of sacrifice?

Trust and obedience are key aspects of faith. How does God ask us to do things we don’t want to do, and what are the implications of such actions?

What religious truths have you discovered for your own life in this story, and how will it impact your actions and behavior?

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The following resources can help parents and parishes discover some of the spiritual truths of The Chronicles of Narnia:

▪ A Guide to Narnia: 100 Questions About the Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, Ascension Press, http://www.ascentionpress.com/.

▪ A Family Guide to Narnia: Biblical Truths in C.S. Lewis’s The Chronicle of Narnia. Christin Ditchfield, Crossway Books, 1300 Crescent Street, Wheaton, IL 60817.

2006-01-03T09:32:00.000-06:00

Just a reminder that the documentary concerning the St. John's Bible project will air tonight on IPTV at 8:00 p.m.

Merry Christmas!

2005-12-22T15:08:00.000-06:00

In the season where darkness is made bright and a small child reminds us again that peace, joy, happiness and love are realities, may you and those you love be blessed abundantly.

Merry Christmas!

St. Joseph Education Center

2005-12-22T09:09:00.000-06:00

The new course booklet for St. Joseph Education Center is available. You can find information concerning the courses offered on line at http://www.stjosepheducationalcenter.org/ Simply follow the link on the home page for the Spring Offerings.

On Line Options Exist!

2005-12-19T09:22:00.000-06:00

Remember that the University of Dayton offers a fine array of on-line adult formation opportunities. You can access their website by following the link below. I think you would find the courses engaging, thought provoking and very beneficial. They really have an easy user interface and the facilitators are great at building community in cyberspace. We are still considering partnership with the University. Let me know if you are interested in participating in a course.

http://www.udayton.edu/~vlc

If you have questions, please feel free to email me!

O Antiphons ...anticipate and celebrate!

2005-12-16T09:26:00.000-06:00

Just a simple and prayerful reminder that we begin the wonderful week of the O Antiphons beginning with December 17th....the link below will offer a brief prayer using the antiphon of the day while also offering a bit of catechesis around the antiphons as a whole...the O Antiphons use various titles for the coming Lord...and help us to focus and celebrate joyously the coming of God with us...Happy Advent!

http://www.rockies.net/~spirit/sermons/s-oantiphons.html

St. John's Bible

2005-12-09T15:14:00.000-06:00

The documentary highlighting the St. John's Illuminated Bible will air on iptv on January 3 at 8:00 pm. I am sure those of you who were able to attend the workshop last Tuesday will not want to miss this and those of you who were not able to be there will want to take advantage of this opportunity.

"THE ILLUMINATED BIBLE" ON IPTV January 3
On Tuesday, January 3 (8:00 PM), IPTV will air a documentary on creation of the first handwritten Bible in 500 years. The Saint John's Bible (commissioned by Saint John's Abbey and University, Collegeville, MN) is the work of master calligrapher Donald Jackson, as the Bible comes to life through handwritten text and intricate artwork. This Bible will be featured in an exhibition at the Joslyn Museum, Omaha, in January-April 2006. For more information: www.saintjohnsbible.org

Marian Feasts

2005-12-09T14:24:00.000-06:00

Remember in this season of Advent, we celebrate not one but two feasts of Mary...this past week we celebrated the Feast of the Immaculate Conception, patroness of our country. On Monday we celebrate the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe... Let us join together in prayer and ask the intercession of Mary under both titles, the Immaculate Conception and Our Lady of Guadalupe for all people everywhere, that our hearts may be opened in this season of waiting and preparing.

Next Des Moines Area Gathering

2005-12-02T11:18:00.000-06:00

Just a quick reminder that the next coordinators/directors gathering in the Des Moines area will be on Thursday, January 5, 2006 from 10-12:00 at Our Lady's Immaculate Heart in Ankeny. Amy Hoover will be our hostess and promises chili for lunch! An email reminder will be coming.

Also, Jeff Johnson from the Iowa State Alumni Association will be joining us that day. Jeff has been engaged in a visioning process at St. Joseph Education Center at Dowling Catholic High School throughout the fall and would very much like to meet with the Adult Faith Formation group.

I am looking forward to seeing those of you who are able to attend the St. John's Bible Workshop this next Tuesday in Stuart...stay warm and safe until then!

American Catholic Web Site (St. Anthony Messenger Press)

2005-12-01T15:41:00.000-06:00

You might find this an interesting site as it leads you to a page - a- day for the season as well as additional resources for the season that are appealing to parents, children, and adults of all ages!
ENJOY!
http://www.americancatholic.org/Features/Christmas/default.asp

Advent web sites to share

2005-11-30T14:42:00.000-06:00

Steve Dressel in Waukee asked that this list be shared. He recently sent this out to members of his faith community in email form...thanks for the list, Steve!

Advent is here, and here are some great websites to explore (or to visit
briefly) about this season of preparation. You should be able just to click
on them below, but if that doesn't work, copy & paste them (or type them)
into your address line on your browser.

http://www.cptryon.org/prayer/adx/index.html
Prayers and customs of Advent and Christmas by a Precious Blood priest.

http://www.creighton.edu/CollaborativeMinistry/Advent
Daily reflections, prayers, and explanations of dates and occasions during
Advent and Christmas

http://www.smile-a-day.com/advent-calendar.shtml
Follow a star for a new song/picture each day on the Advent Calendar.

http://www.americancatholic.org/features/advent/
Daily reflection, activity and peacemaking idea and other great links from
the Franciscans.

http://www.catholic.org/clife/advent/
Explores meanings of texts and traditions of Advent.

http://www.usccb.org/cchd/adventcalendar/
Advent Calendar of activities for Social Justice.

http://www.silk.net/RelEd/reviewsadvent.htm
Links to several other great Advent sites.

May you experience the peace and hope of our Emmanuel this blessed season!

Advent Happenings

2005-11-30T11:56:00.000-06:00

Advent is here and many of the parishes have wonderful opportunities for ongoing faith formation. Listed below is what Holy Trinity in Des Moines has to offer.

Holy Trinity Catholic Church will present ADVENT PRAYER IN WORD AND
MUSIC on Wednesday, December 14, at 7:00 p.m. in the church at 2926
Beaver Avenue in Des Moines. Come and join us for prayer, music, and
reflection during the season of Advent. For one evening put away the
hurry of getting ready for Christmas, and let the peace and joy of
Emmanuel, God-with-us, be part of your life. Everyone is welcome.

WELCOME!

2005-11-30T11:26:00.000-06:00

Welcome to the Blog for Adult Faith Formation in the Diocese of Des Moines! It is my hope that this web log will be an avenue for us to continue to share information and ideas with each other concerning formation initiatives for adults. I will periodically post articles or blurbs on the blog and you will always have the opportunity to add comments...the comments can take the form of conversation strands, information sharing or event updating.

Hopefully this blog will be an added means for us to engage each other in resource sharing while continuing our own formation without taking additional time for meetings and travel. Perhaps folks who are not able to join us when we gather will be able to enter the conversation with us on line as their time permits!