LECTURAS DE HOY TODAY S READINGS T E THIS WEEK S READINGS CATHEDRAL OF SAINT MATTHEW THE APOSTLE, WASHINGTON, D.C.

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1 CATHEDRAL OF SAINT MATTHEW THE APOSTLE, WASHINGTON, D.C. OCTOBER 14, 2012 TODAY S READINGS T E he word of God is sharper than any two edged sword. (Hebrews 4:12) What a vivid image! God s word is razor sharp, able to cut through our innermost thoughts. It can expose the inner motives and desires of our hearts. Most of us would cringe at the thought of such a weapon. So it s good to know that this isn t the whole picture. If we want a fuller picture, we need to look at today s Gospel reading. A wealthy man asks Jesus how he can gain eternal life. Jesus recounts the commandments, and the man is sure he has kept them. What is he still missing? This is when Mark gives us a vital detail: Jesus looked at him, loved him, and told him to give his money to the poor and then come follow him (Mark 10:21). It s this look of love that cut through the man s confusion and exposed his real self. Jesus saw his sincerity, but also saw the one thing that stood in his way: he was too attached to his wealth (Mark 10:21). Jesus look wasn t one of harsh scrutiny. It was an inviting look. It was a warm and compassionate look that saw the man s strengths and weaknesses and offered him the grace to become the disciple he wanted to be. It s unfortunate that the rich man went away sad (Mark 10:22). But you don t have to follow his footsteps! Every day, Jesus, the living Word of God, looks on you with the same penetrating gaze. He sees everything in you the good, the bad, and the ugly and he loves you intensely. So take a moment now to let Jesus search you. As you do, you ll discover that he sees so much goodness in your heart goodness that you take for granted or didn t even know was there. Of course he sees areas that need to change. But he is so happy with everything else that he is more than eager to help you make those changes. Lord Jesus, nothing in me is hidden from you. Thank you for looking on me with such love! Taken from The Word Among Us, September 2012, Vol. 31, Number 9: Used with permission. THIS WEEK S READINGS Sunday 14th Wis 7:7 11 / Heb 4:12 13 / Mk 10:17 30 Monday 15th Gal 4:22 24,26 27,31 5:1 / Lk 11:29 32 St. Teresa of Jesus Tuesday 16th Gal 5:1 6 / Lk 11:37 41 St. Hedwig & St. Margaret Mary Alacoque Wednesday 17th Gal 5:18 25 / Lk 11:42 46 St. Ignatius of Antioch Thursday 18th 2 Tim 4:10 17 / Lk 10:1 9 St. Luke Friday 19th Eph 1:11 14 / Lk 12:1 7 St. John de Brébeuf, St. Isaac Jogues & their companions Saturday 20th Eph 1:15 23 / Lk 12:8 12 St. Paul of the Cross Sunday 21st Is 53:10 11 / Heb 4:14 16 / Mk 10:35 45 LECTURAS DE HOY l joven de este pasaje era obviamente devoto. Toda su vida había tratado de observar los mandamientos y básicamente lo había logrado, aunque sentía que todavía le faltaba algo para alcanzar la vida eterna. Pero la respuesta de Jesús lo dejó desconcertado. El joven, que había sido educado según las Escrituras, sabía que las riquezas eran una señal del favor de Dios. Entonces, cómo podía Jesús pedirle renunciar a sus bienes? El Señor lo hizo porque lo amaba, porque el amor no elude las decisiones difíciles de la vida y sabía que si el joven decidía bien, la gracia de Dios le daría todo lo necesario para vivir y alcanzar la santidad. Pero el joven no lo pudo comprender. La situación tampoco fue comprensible para los discípulos, porque ellos se quedaron perplejos, ya que también consideraban que la abundancia era una bendición de Dios. Somos nosotros diferentes? Se dice que las riquezas obstaculizan el crecimiento espiritual y que Dios ama a los pobres, pero acaso nuestras vidas y acciones no reflejan lo opuesto? El desafío de Jesús es difícil, pero no imposible, si estamos convencidos de que Él nos ama tanto como amaba a este joven. Hay muchos santos cuyos ejemplos podemos seguir, como San Antonio del Desierto y San Francisco de Asís, que renunciaron a todo lo que tenían. Otros se dieron personalmente para acoger a los pobres y ayudarles en su necesidad, como la beata Juana Jugan y la Madre Teresa de Calcuta. Pero no es preciso ser santo para librarse de las ataduras del materialismo y del amor a las riquezas. Todos podemos empezar compartiendo algo de lo que tenemos (dinero, bienes, habilidades, etc.) para ayudar al necesitado, especialmente si es pobre, indefenso o minusválido. Te invitamos, amigo, a desprenderte de algo que no uses tanto, para ayudar al que realmente lo necesita. Amado Señor, permite que tu palabra llegue a mi corazón como una semilla fecunda y produzca en mí frutos de generosidad y desprendimiento, para seguir tus enseñanzas y ayudar a mis semejantes necesitados. Escogida con el permiso de La Palabra Entre Nosotros, Vol. 31, Número 9: septiembre 2012

2 TWENTY EIGHTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME COME LET US ADORE HIM! All are invited to the Cathedral for our monthly Eucharistic Holy Hour on Monday, October 15 from 6 to 7pm, with Deacon Clayton Nickel presiding. The Sacrament of Reconciliation will be available during the hour. CATHEDRAL CALENDAR OCTOBER 14 OCTOBER 21 SUNDAY 14 Spanish Heritage Month receptions are held in the North Conference Room after the 8:30am, 10am, 11:30am & 1pm Masses. Las clases de Catequesis, Catecumenado y Catequesis Familiar continúan a las 11:00 de la mañana. The Cathedral Club meets at 1pm in the West Conference Room. MONDAY 15 A Eucharistic Holy Hour is held in the Cathedral from 6 to 7pm. The Development & Stewardship Committee meets at 6:45pm in the West Conference Room. Wine and Wisdom meets at 7pm in the East Conference Room. TUESDAY 16 The Faith Formation Committee meets at 7pm in the East Conference Room. El Grupo de Oración en Español se reunirá a las 7 de la tarde en el salón de conferencias del Oeste. WEDNESDAY 17 A Fall Lecture is given at 12:45pm in the North Conference Room. Breaking Open the Word meets at 7pm in the West Conference Room. THURSDAY 18 Legión de María se reunirá a las 6:30 de la tarde en el salón de conferencias del Este. Wednesday s lecture is repeated at 7pm in the North Conference Room. The Knights of Columbus meet at 7:30pm in the West Conference Room. SUNDAY 21 A second collection to Benefit the Propagation of the Faith is taken at all Masses. Las clases de Catequesis, Catecumenado y Catequesis Familiar continúan a las 11:00 de la mañana. Bishop Knestout celebrates the White Mass at 11:30am. NEWS AND NOTES WINE AND WISDOM Please join the young women of Wine and Wisdom on Monday, October 15 at 7pm in the East Conference Room. This is sure to be a fruitful discussion! If you have any questions, please wineandwisdom.stmatthews@gmail.com. WHITE MASS The Third Annual White Mass, honoring the gifts of persons with special needs, will be held at the Cathedral on Sunday, October 21 at 11:30am. Bishop Barry C. Knestout will be the principal celebrant, and Fr. William Byrne will be the homilist. The archdiocesan Department of Special Needs Ministries will host this annual liturgy, which honors the gifts of all persons who are deaf, persons with disabilities, or those with mental health challenges. This Mass has the color designation of white because in baptism, all Catholics become equal members of the body of Christ. Guests are encouraged to wear white as a sign of their baptismal introduction into the Church. The liturgy will be sign language interpreted and low gluten hosts will be available if requested. For more information, specialneeds@adw.org or call NOVEMBER REMEMBRANCES On Thursday, November 1, we celebrate the Solemnity of All Saints, a Holy Day of Obligation honoring all the saints, known and unknown. Cardinal Donald Wuerl joins us as celebrant of the 12:10pm Mass. All Saints Day Masses will be at 5:30pm on Wednesday, October 31, and at 7am, 8am, 11am, 12:10pm, 5:30pm and 7pm (Spanish) on Thursday, November 1. On All Souls Day, celebrated on Friday, November 2, we commemorate deceased family members and loved ones who await their purification in Purgatory. The Church teaches that some sins can be forgiven even after death (CCC 1031). While these departed souls can pray for us, they can no longer pray for themselves. That spiritual work of mercy is up to us. Cardinal Donald Wuerl will celebrate the 12:10pm Mass on All Souls Day, which is also First Friday, with Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament following the Mass until 5pm, as usual. We remember our deceased loved ones in a special way throughout the month of November. Each day a special Mass is offered at the Cathedral for this intention. Special envelopes are provided in the pews so that you can list the names of the deceased to be remembered at these daily Masses. The envelopes, which can be dropped in the collection basket or at the rectory, will be placed on the altar in the Wedding Chapel. NEW WORSHIP HYMNALS It is still possible to honor a loved one by dedicating a pew edition in his/her name. Envelopes for donations (white) may be found in the front pew racks of each section of pews or at the rectory during office hours. Donations are $20 per hymnal, and you may donate as many as you like. A unique bookplate will be placed in each donated hymnal.

3 CATHEDRAL OF SAINT MATTHEW THE APOSTLE, WASHINGTON, D.C. OCTOBER 14, 2012 FAITH IN ACTION FALL FEAST OF TREATS DINNER FOR THE HOMELESS The Social Justice & Community Services Committee will host a dinner for our homeless friends on Sunday, October 21 at 3:30pm. Contact Paulin Leonida at or lmapaulina@gmail.com to help with any of the following: Set up, serve, and provide hospitality to our guests Make or purchase food for the dinner Give a monetary donation towards food & supplies These biannual dinners are a huge success because of YOU! We look forward to hearing from you. MASS AND ROSARY FOR LIFE In collaboration with the Archdiocese Department of Life Issues, the Cathedral s Respect Life Ministry will host a Mass and rosary procession on Saturday, October 27, beginning at 8am. Join us for Mass and a prayerful procession to Planned Parenthood to pray for an end to abortion. Mark your calendars and invite friends to join you as we witness to the dignity of all human life! If you are interested in attending or have any questions, contact the Cathedral s Respect Life Ministry Co coordinators, Justin Silvers and Sarah Roque, at stmatthewsrespectlife@yahoo.com. ILLUMINATE YOUR CONSCIENCE Conscience is a judgment of reason whereby the human person recognizes the moral quality of a concrete act.... Every person] is obliged to follow faithfully what he [or she] knows to be just and right (Catechism of the Catholic Church, no ). As Election Day draws near, we as Catholic Americans are faced with a very important decision, one that requires us to exercise our free will in partnership with one of our greatest tools our conscience! Join us for what is sure to be a fruitful and enlightening discussion on the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) document, Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship, presented by Thom Shellabarger, on Saturday, October 27 at 10am in the West Conference Room. Formerly a Policy Advisor at the USCCB, Thom was a key contributor to the development of Faithful Citizenship. He has spent more than 40 years advocating on issues from housing and community development, to minimum wage, employment, and civil rights with the Congress and the Administration. Smiles from last month s successful Health Fair (Photos by Pedro Carroll) FAITH FORMATION Fr. John W. O Malley, SJ kicked off our Fall Lecture series, speaking on Vatican II: Then and Now. (Photo by Pedro Carroll) BOOK CLUB: WOLF HALL All are welcome when the St. Matthew's Book Club meets on Monday, October 22 to discuss Hilary Mantel's Wolf Hall. This work of historical fiction set in early 16th century England chronicles Thomas Cromwell's rise to power. We will meet in the West Conference Room at 6:45pm. Contact Paul Zummo at pzummo@gmail.com with any questions. BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND: YOUR TALENT FOR A GREATER PURPOSE St. Matthew s offered a pilot course this summer on finding meaningful work and carrying out a successful job search. The course grew into a delightful and engaging 35 plus person community, so pursuant to great feedback from the summer participants, the course will return later this month, revamped and with a slightly broader focus than just jobs and work. Eightytwo percent said they would recommend a similar course to others, so join us! See the flier in this bulletin, and find the group on BECOMING CATHOLIC Throughout the year, adults come forward seeking to learn about the Catholic faith. For those interested in learning about the Catholic faith or thinking about becoming Catholic, St. Matthew s offers Inquiry, a casual, ongoing conversation about the Catholic faith, once a month. Inquiry is the first step in the process of discerning one s commitment to full initiation in the Catholic Church. Inquiry meets on the second Wednesday of the month from 6:30 to 7:30pm in the East Conference Room. A brief overview of the entire adult initiation process (RCIA), which begins formally in June each year, can be presented after Inquiry for those interested. The next Inquiry will be held Wednesday, November 14. For more information, contact Heather Kinney at hkinney@stmatthewscathedral.org.

4 TWENTY EIGHTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME NOTICIAS DE LA PARROQUIA LECTURAS DE LA SEMANA Domingo 14 Sab 7:7 11 / Heb 4:12 13 / Mc 10:17 30 Lunes 15 Gál 4:22 24,26 27,31 5:1 / Lc 11:29 32 Santa Teresa de Jesús Martes 16 Gál 5:1 6 / Lc 11:37 41 Santa Eduvigis y santa Margarita María de Alacoque Miércoles 17 Gál 5:18 25 / Lc 11:42 46 San Ignacio de Antioquía Jueves 18 2 Tim 4:10 17 / Lc 10:1 9 San Lucas Viernes 19 Efe 1:11 14 / Lc 12:1 17 San Juan Brébeuf y san Isaac Jogues y Compañeros Sábado 20 Efe 1:15 23 / Lc 12:8 12 San Pablo de la Cruz Domingo 21 Is 53:10 11 / Heb 4:14 16 / Mc 10:35 45 ADORACIÓN AL SANTÍSIMO SACRAMENTO Les invitamos el lunes 15 de octubre después de la misa de 5:30 de la tarde, a que se unan en adoración al Santísimo, de 6 a 7 de la tarde. El Sacramento de Reconciliación estará disponible durante la hora de la Adoración. CENA PARA LAS PERSONAS SIN HOGAR EN OTOÑO Los comités de Justicia Social y Servicios Comunitarios, están auspiciando una cena para las personas sin hogar de nuestra vecindad, el domingo 21 de octubre a las 3:30 de la tarde. Si desea ayudar en diferentes aspectos de la cena, puede llamar a Paulin Leonida al o lmapaulina@gmail.com o a la rectoría Formas de ayudar: Preparar las mesas, servir y proveer hospitalidad a nuestros invitados Comprar alimentos para la cena o cocinar para la cena Dar una donación monetaria para la cena o suplementos Estas dos cenas anuales, son de gran éxito gracias a USTEDES! Espero oír de ustedes. TODOS LOS SANTOS Y TODOS LOS DIFUNTOS El jueves, 1 de noviembre la Iglesia celebra la solemnidad de Todos los Santos, un día de precepto en honor a todos los santos, conocidos y desconocidos. Las misas serán (vigilia) el miércoles 31 de octubre a las 5:30 de la tarde, a las 7:00, 8:00 y 11:00 de la mañana; 12:10 del mediodía (celebrada por el Cardenal Donald Wuerl, 5:30 de la tarde y 7:00 de la noche (español). El Cardenal Wuerl también se une a nosotros para la fiesta de todos los difuntos, el viernes, 2 de noviembre, como celebrante de la misa 12:10 del mediodía. Este día tenemos horario regular de misas. SANTA MISA Y ROSARIO POR LA VIDA En colaboración con el Departamento de Asuntos de la Vida de la Arquidiócesis, el Ministerio de Respeto a la Vida de la Catedral tendrá una Misa y procesión del rosario el sábado, 27 de octubre, empezando a las 8 de la mañana. Únase con nosotros en la Misa y la procesión de oración a Planned Parenthood para rezar por el fin al aborto. Marquen sus calendarios e inviten a sus amigos que les acompañen a ser testigos a la dignidad de toda vida humana. Si está interesado en asistir o tiene cualquier pregunta, por favor póngase en contacto con los coordinadores del Ministerio de Respeto a la Vida de la Catedral, Justin Silvers y Sarah Roque, al stmatthewsrespectlife@yahoo.com. O llame a la rectoría. GRUPO DE ORACIÓN El grupo de oración se reúne los martes a las 7:00 de la tarde, en el salón de conferencias del Oeste. El objetivo del grupo es profundizar en nuestra fe por medio de las Sagradas Escrituras. Para más información llame a Fátima al X543. SOBRES PARA LOS DIFUNTOS Durante el mes de noviembre, o mes de los difuntos, los católicos acostumbramos a ofrecer misas por nuestros difuntos, y para ello encontrarán unos sobres en los bancos de la Catedral. En estos sobres pueden poner los nombres de sus difuntos, familiares y amigos, con una donación. Los puede poner en la cesta de la colecta o también en la rectoría. Estos sobres se pondrán en el altar de la Capilla Nupcial, cuyas intenciones serán recordadas en las misas durante el mes de noviembre. DÍA DE ORACIÓN Y SANACIÓN Ha tenido usted sentimientos de culpabilidad, vergüenza, remordimiento y tristeza después de un aborto? Usted no está sola. Las mujeres que han tenido un aborto en sus vidas están invitadas a un Día de Oración y Sanación, que será el sábado 10 de noviembre. Se va a sentir en un ambiente de paz y confianza para poder sanar de la vergüenza y otras emociones negativas que llegan después de un aborto. El lugar es confidencial, se le dirá el día de su inscripción. Para mas información puede llamar al Ministerio del Proyecto Raquel: Pregunte por Luz Menjivar. Recuerde que todos nuestros contactos son confidenciales. ProjectoRaquel@adw.org.

5 CATHEDRAL OF SAINT MATTHEW THE APOSTLE, WASHINGTON, D.C. OCTOBER 14, 2012 Visit our Eucharistic Lord in the tabernacle of St. Matthew s Blessed Sacrament Chapel. MASS INTENTIONS Sunday, October 14 5:30pm (vigil) Tyler J. Sanchez 10am Raymond J. Martino 11:30am All Parishioners 1pm Modesta Castro 5:30pm Margie Pound Monday, October 15 7am Thanksgiving 8am Julie Tocchio (living) 12:10pm Albert Mogzec (living) 5:30pm Eugene T. Duszak Tuesday, October 16 7am Pureza de Jesus 8am John Kekeh 12:10pm Clarrissia Harrington 5:30pm Francisco Salome de León Wednesday, October 17 7am Josephine Klug Kuhn 8am Alexander Klieforth 12:10pm Ethan Alperstein Thursday, October 18 12:10pm Emmanuel Stewart Friday, October 19 8am Carolina Urribarri 12:10pm Clema Isaacs 5:30pm Raymond W. Carpenter Saturday, October 20 7am Graziella Salgado 5:30pm All Parishioners Sunday, October 21 8:30 Julie Tocchio (living) 10am John P. O Neill 11:30am Irene Osten 1pm Wilfredo Custodio 5:30pm Frantiska Lyskova & family (living) To arrange a Mass intention, speak to our receptionist in the Rectory. There is no fee but an offering is customary. Intentions are reserved in advance so particular dates may be unavailable. Se les recuerda a todas las personas que deseen ofrecer misas por sus difuntos, que tienen que reservarlas por lo menos con tres meses de antelación debido a que solo tenemos una misa en español. CELEBRATING MARRIAGE Couples who are interested in celebrating the Sacrament of Marriage at the Cathedral are encouraged to visit the parish website to review our guidelines for weddings. The next step is to call the Rectory at and ask for the priest of your choice or the priest on duty, who can speak to you about marriage preparation and the possibility of scheduling your wedding ceremony at the Cathedral. Couples are expected to contact us at least nine (9) months in advance of the date on which they hope to celebrate their wedding. CELEBRATING BAPTISM Parents who wish to have their child baptized at the Cathedral should contact the Baptismal Coordinator at the Rectory at baptism@ stmatthewscathedral.org or x555. Parents are encouraged to make contact with us at least six (6) months in advance of a desired baptismal date, at which time they may ask for the priest of their choice to perform the Baptism. This early contact enables parents to be scheduled for the necessary sacramental formation session before the child s baptism and allows time for sponsors to obtain letters from their parish pastor. VISITS & TOURS People from around the country and around the world are drawn to the Cathedral by its history, art and architecture and its invitation to prayer and worship. We invite you to plan a visit or pilgrimage all are welcome. Schedule a guided tour or to take a self guided tour using the color brochures available at the Cathedral entrance. Contact us at or mhurley@ stmatthewscathedral.org. WELCOMING ALL For wheelchair access to the Cathedral, enter the driveway to the parking garage next to the Cathedral. Ring the buzzer at the Conference Center door at the bottom of the driveway to enter. Take the elevator to the Cathedral level. A sign language interpreter is present at the Sunday 11:30am Mass and special liturgies throughout the year. An induction loop is provided for the benefit of hearing aid users. Those desiring to take advantage of the induction loop should sit in pews B1, B3, A1 or A3 and switch their hearing aids to "T." YOUNG ADULTS Cathedral Young Adult (C YA) Ministry Meetand Greet Sunday, October 14 after 5:30pm Mass Cathedral East Conference Room Meet other young adults at St. Matt's, learn more about the C YA ministry, share ideas, and find out how to get involved. Contact: Jillian at jillian.mcmahon@gmail.com. C YA for Supper Thursday, October 25 7pm Bistrot du Coin (1738 Connecticut Avenue NW / Dupont Metro) C YA for Supper is a fun way to meet fellow young adults while trying new DC restaurants. C YA invites friends and fellow foodies to get to know one another over steak frites and crème brûlée at this bustling, casual French bistro. RSVP to Carolyn at cewait.10@gmail.com by Monday, October 22.

6 What is man that you are mindful of him, and a son of man that you care for him? Yet you have made him little less than a god, crowned him with glory and honor. You have given him rule over the works of your hands, put all things at his feet. O LORD, our Lord, how awesome is your Name through all the earth! Psalm 8:5 7,10 Focus on Freedom and Human Dignity Our Dignity Most religions teach that, of all the creatures on earth, human beings have a special dignity one that is linked to our relationship with the Origin and Destiny of all things, God. Turning to the Sacred Scriptures, our Church has always understood that human dignity consists in our having been created in the image and likeness of God (cf. Genesis 1:26). But what specifically does this mean? God is spirit therefore, human dignity consists in our having been created with a share in God's spiritual qualities: The image of God in our ability to know the truth, and The likeness of God in our free will choosing the good. As the Psalm verse quoted above implies, this unique capacity to know and ability to choose makes human beings "little less than a god" (in other words, like God himself). When you think about it, each and every human being, regardless of sex, race, ethnicity, nationality, class, age, or state of health, bears within him or herself this stamp of God's image, and therefore, he or she must be treated with the utmost reverence and respect. Yet while humanity has been given "rule over the works of [God's] hands" (that is, over all creation), to quote a popular saying, "With great power comes great responsibility." Our Christian Dignity As Catholic Christians, we are not only created in the image and likeness of God, but we are also baptized into the Image of God, Jesus Christ, crucified for us and Risen from the dead (cf. Colossians 1:15 20), and confirmed in God's likeness through the Holy Spirit. Thus our intellects and wills, and yes, even our bodies, wounded and damaged by sin, are even now being healed, conformed anew to In Catholic teaching, human beings are not given such powers as understanding and freedom so as to exploit our world, but rather so as to serve our world as its guardians and stewards: through our families, through our communities, in our jobs and careers, in our creative and artistic expression, in our scientific and technological research, in our political endeavors, and in our worship, along with our works of charity and justice. God's truth, goodness, beauty, and love. Consequently, praying and acting always by the grace of God's Spirit, it is our dignity, privilege, and responsibility to transform the entire world (beginning with our own hearts and homes) with the joy of the Gospel. And what is the cause of this confident joy? Nothing other than the "love the Father has bestowed on us that we may be called children of God" (1 John 3:1). Isn't this amazing?! In Christ and through the Spirit, we are God's very own children! Having been "transformed by the renewal of [our] mind" through faith in the Good News, and through the deepening of our experience of the dignity that this faith bestows, we are now free to "discern what is the will of God, what is good and pleasing and perfect" (Romans 12:2). To download this and other resources, visit

7 Our Freedom in Christ As persons bearing the dignity of God's children in Christ through the Spirit, we are called to a life of freedom. That said, let us be clear: for Catholic Christians, freedom does not mean license to act without restraint. On the contrary, freedom is the power to choose the good for to be free in this way is to be free as only God is free. Indeed, the life of true freedom, as Jesus tells us (cf. John 8:31 36), is a life of freedom from sin, and freedom for love. And as St. Paul teaches in his Letter to the Romans (see above), all "creation awaits with eager expectation the revelation" of this freedom as manifested in the lives of God's children. Why? Because when we who, were made "little less than a god" so as to serve as stewards of creation begin to live out the full implications of our calling in freedom, the world and everyone in it will be transformed. What, then, is Christian freedom? The Catholic Church has given us a body of what has become known as her "social teaching" to help us activate our call to freedom our call to live freely in the world. What often strikes those who first encounter Catholic Social Teaching is how "holistic" it is, covering everything from the rights of the unborn to the dignity of the poor to our responsibilities to the environment. Truly, it is for good reason that this teaching has been called "the Church's best kept secret" it would seem the world "awaits with eager expectation the revelation" of this marvelous vision of charity and justice for our age. How, then, to live freely in this world? How to realize our dignity as children of God? Let us begin by applying the principles of Catholic Social Teaching in our personal and public lives. Life and Dignity of the Human Person. Human life is sacred and must be protected. Every person has God given dignity. Call to Family, Community and Participation. Strong families are the cornerstone of our communities and need to be nurtured. We are called to participate in community life and work for the common good. Rights and Responsibilities. Our rights as human persons call us to be responsible members of society. We are called to care for others. Option for the Poor and Vulnerable. The test of a just society is how the poor and vulnerable are treated. We are called to put the needs of the poor and vulnerable first. The Dignity and Rights of Workers. Workers should be treated fairly and justly compensated for their labors. Solidarity. We are one human family and called to love and respect our neighbor, despite racial, ethnic, national, or economic differences. Care for God's Creation. We show our respect for our Creator by our stewardship of creation and care for the environment where we live. Stay Connected sacredproperty@adw.org l blog.adw.org Share your reflections on Twitter at #SacredProperty Did you know? From the Catechism of the Catholic Church Freedom is exercised in relationships between human beings. Every human person, created in the image of God, has the natural right to be recognized as a free and responsible being. All owe to each other this duty of respect. The right to the exercise of freedom, especially in moral and religious matters, is an inalienable requirement of the dignity of the human person. This right must be recognized and protected by civil authority within the limits of the common good and public order (1738). From the Compendium of the Social Doctrine of the Church A just society can become a reality only when it is based on the respect of the transcendent dignity of the human person. The person represents the ultimate end of society, by which it is ordered to the person: "Hence, the social order and its development must invariably work to the benefit of the human person, since the order of things is to be subordinate to the order of persons, and not the other way around." Every political, economic, social, scientific and cultural program must be inspired by the awareness of the primacy of each human being over society (132). Christian, recognize your dignity now that you share in God's own nature. Remember who is your head and of whose body you are a member. Never forget that you have been rescued from the power of darkness and brought into the light of the Kingdom of God. Pope St. Leo the Great

8 Qué es el hombre para que pienses en él, el ser humano para que lo cuides? Lo hiciste poco inferior a los ángeles, lo coronaste de gloria y esplendor; le diste dominio sobre la obra de tus manos, todo lo pusiste bajo sus pies Señor, nuestro Dios, qué admirable es tu Nombre en toda la tierra! Salmo 8, 5 7, 10 Enfoque en la libertad y la dignidad Nuestra dignidad La mayoría de las religiones enseñan que, de todas las criaturas de la tierra, los seres humanos tienen una dignidad especial una dignidad que se vincula a nuestra relación con el Origen y el Destino de todas las cosas, Dios. En cuanto a la Sagrada Escritura, nuestra Iglesia siempre ha entendido que la dignidad humana consiste en haber sido creados a imagen y semejanza de Dios (cf. Génesis 1, 26). Pero, específicamente, qué significa esto? Dios es espíritu por lo tanto, la dignidad humana consiste en haber sido creados con una parte de las cualidades espirituales de Dios: Como dan a entender los versículos del Salmo citado arriba, esta capacidad singular para conocer y la habilidad de elegir hace a los seres humanos poco inferiores a los ángeles (en otras palabras, casi como Dios mismo). Cuando reflexiona sobre esto, todos y cada uno de los seres humanos, independientemente de sexo, raza, etnia, nacionalidad, clase social, edad o estado de salud, lleva en sí esta estampa de la imagen de Dios y, por lo tanto, deben ser tratados con extrema veneración y respeto. Si bien a la humanidad se le otorgó el dominio sobre la obra de tus manos [de Dios] (eso es, sobre la creación en general), para citar un dicho popular, Todo gran poder conlleva una gran responsabilidad. Nuestra dignidad cristiana La imagen de Dios en nuestra capacidad para conocer la verdad y la semejanza de Dios en nuestro libre albedrío para elegir el bien. Como cristianos católicos, no solo somos creados a imagen y semejanza de Dios sino que también somos bautizados en la imagen de Dios, Jesucristo, crucificado por nosotros y que resucitó de entre los muertos (cf. Colosenses 1, 15 20), y confirmados a semejanza de Dios a través del Espíritu Santo. Por ello es que nuestro intelecto y voluntad, y sí, incluso nuestros cuerpos, heridos y dañados por el pecado, todavía ahora son sanados, conformados otra vez según la verdad, bondad, belleza y amor de Dios. Por lo tanto, rezando y actuando siempre por la gracia del Espíritu de Dios, nuestra dignidad, privilegio y responsabilidad es transformar todo el mundo (comenzando en nuestros propios corazones y hogares) con el gozo del Evangelio. Y, qué causa este gozo seguro? Nada más que el [amor del] Padre! Quiso que nos llamáramos hijos de Dios (1 Juan 3, 1). No es asombroso? En Cristo y por el Espíritu Santo, somos los propios hijos de Dios! Después de haber sido [transformados] interiormente renovando [nuestra] mentalidad por la fe en la Buena Nueva y a través de la profundización de nuestra experiencia de la dignidad que confiere esta fe, ahora somos libres para discernir cuál es la voluntad de Dios: lo que es bueno, lo que le agrada, lo perfecto (Romanos 12, 2). Para descargar éste y otros materiales, visítenos en

9 Nuestra libertad en Cristo Como personas que tienen la dignidad conferida a los hijos de Dios en Cristo por el Espíritu Santo, estamos llamados a una vida de libertad. Dicho esto, debemos ser claros: para los cristianos católicos, la libertad no es una licencia para actuar sin restricciones. Por el contrario, libertad es el poder de elegir el bien ya que ser libres de este modo es ser libres como solo Dios es libre. De hecho, la vida de verdadera libertad, como nos dice Jesús (cf. Juan 8, 31 36), es una vida libre de pecado, con libertad para amar. Además, San Pablo nos enseña en su Carta a los Romanos (vea más arriba), que toda la creación espera ansiosamente [la] revelación de esta libertad como se manifiesta en las vidas de los hijos de Dios. Por qué? Porque cuando nosotros que fuimos creados poco inferiores a los ángeles a fin de servir como administradores en la creación comenzamos a vivir las consecuencias plenas de nuestro llamado en libertad, el mundo y todos en él serán transformados. Qué, entonces, es la libertad cristiana? La Iglesia Católica nos ha dado un cuerpo de lo que ha pasado a conocerse como su doctrina social para ayudarnos a activar nuestro llamado a la libertad nuestro llamado a vivir en libertad en el mundo. Lo que a menudo causa asombro a las personas que se encuentran por primera vez con la Doctrina social católica es que sea tan holística, que abarque todo desde los derechos de los no nacidos a la dignidad de los pobres y nuestros deberes con el medio ambiente. Verdaderamente, es por un motivo justificado que esta enseñanza se denominó el secreto mejor guardado de la Iglesia parecería que el mundo espera ansiosamente [la] revelación de esta maravillosa visión de caridad y justicia para nuestros tiempos. Cómo, entonces, vivir libremente en este mundo? Cómo realizamos nuestra dignidad como hijos de Dios? Comencemos por aplicar los principios de la Doctrina social católica en nuestras vidas personales y públicas. Vida y dignidad de la persona humana. La vida humana es sagrada y debe ser protegida. Todas las personas tienen la dignidad que les da Dios. Llamado a la familia, a la comunidad y a la participación. Las familias sólidas son la piedra angular de nuestras comunidades y necesitan ser protegidas. Estamos llamados a participar en la vida comunitaria y a esforzarnos por el bien común. Derechos y deberes. Nuestros derechos como personas humanas nos llaman a ser integrantes responsables de la sociedad. Estamos llamados a cuidar de otros. Opción por los pobres e indefensos. Una manera de evaluar una sociedad justa es el modo en que trata a los pobres e indefensos. Estamos llamados a poner las necesidades de los pobres e indefensos en el primer lugar. Dignidad del trabajo y derecho de los trabajadores. Los trabajadores deben recibir trato equitativo y retribución justa por sus labores. Solidaridad. Somos una sola familia humana y estamos llamados a amar y a respetar a nuestro prójimo, independientemente de nuestras diferencias raciales, étnicas, nacionales o económicas. Cuidando la creación de Dios. Demostramos nuestro respeto por nuestro Creador administrando la creación y cuidando el medio ambiente donde vivimos. Manténgase en contacto l sacredproperty@adw.org l blog.adw.org Lo sabía? Del Catecismo de la Iglesia Católica La libertad se ejercita en las relaciones entre los seres humanos. Toda persona humana, creada a imagen de Dios, tiene el derecho natural de ser reconocida como un ser libre y responsable. Todo hombre debe prestar a cada cual el respeto al que éste tiene derecho. El derecho al ejercicio de la libertad es una exigencia inseparable de la dignidad de la persona humana, especialmente en materia moral y religiosa. Este derecho debe ser reconocido y protegido civilmente dentro de los límites del bien común y del orden público (1738). Del Compendio de la Doctrina Social de la Iglesia Una sociedad justa puede ser realizada solamente en el respeto de la dignidad trascendente de la persona humana. Ésta representa el fin último de la sociedad, que está a ella ordenada: El orden social, pues, y su progresivo desarrollo deben en todo momento subordinarse al bien de la persona, ya que el orden real debe someterse al orden personal, y no al contrario. Es preciso que todos los programas [políticos, económicos] sociales, científicos y culturales, estén presididos por la conciencia del primado de cada ser humano [sobre la sociedad] (132).

10 Fall Lecture Series Cathedral of St. Matthew the Apostle VATICAN II: CELEBRATING 50 YEARS Pope Benedict XVI has declared that a Year of Faith will begin October 11, 2012 and conclude November 24, 2013, the Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, Universal King. The first day of the Year of Faith is the fiftieth anniversary of the opening of the Second Vatican Council. This year s Fall Lecture Series will focus on the important documents and themes of this important council in the life of our Church. Our Fall Lecture Series continues this week: ON CHURCH: 50 YEARS OF LUMEN GENTIUM (Dogmatic Constitution on the Church) Join us Wednesday, October 17 or Thursday, October 18 Our speaker on Wednesday is Mr. Marc J. DelMonico, MDiv, MA (PhD candidate, The Catholic University of America) Mr. Marc DelMonico is a PhD candidate working on his dissertation in historic and systematic theology at the Catholic University of America. His academic background is in the areas of theology of church, ecumenical theology, and liturgical theology. Marc also has an extensive ministry background, having been involved in urban parish work, liturgy, RCIA, pastoral care, and ecumenical work in his hometown of Utica, New York and in the Washington DC area. In 2011, Marc helped to cofound Perisphere Media, a local website design company that works with a number of faith-based nonprofit organizations. Our speaker on Thursday is Rev. Msgr. Paul McPartlan, STL DPhil (The Catholic University of America; author, Sacrament of Salvation: An Introduction to Eucharistic Ecclesiology) Msgr. Paul McPartlan is a priest of the diocese of Westminster (UK) and Carl J Peter Professor of Systematic Theology and Ecumenism at the Catholic University of America. He is a member of the International Theological Commission and a member of the international commission for theological dialogue between the Catholic Church and the Orthodox Church. He specializes in ecclesiology, Eucharist, ecumenism, and Vatican II and has published several books and many articles in these areas. Wednesday lectures: 12:45pm to 1:45pm Thursday lectures: 7pm to 8pm All lectures will be held in the North Conference Room. Follow the directional signs to the lectures. Lectures are free and open to the public. Join us for any or all. No RSVP necessary. Questions? hkinney@stmatthewscathedral.org or call , x530. Cathedral of St. Matthew the Apostle 1725 Rhode Island Avenue NW Washington DC Metro: Red Line to Farragut North (L Street exit) Parking: limited metered street parking or public garage next to Cathedral ($10 per hour before 4pm-$16 daily max or $5 flat fee after 4pm)

11 FIVE WEEKS ON THE HISTORICAL BOOKS OF THE OLD TESTAMENT Time: 10:30 to 11:45am (Consider staying for our 12:10pm Mass afterward.) Dates: Saturdays, October 27; November 3, 10, 17 & 24 Place: North Conference Room on 10/27 & 11/10 East Conference Room on 11/3, 11/17 & 11/24 Facilitator: Father Jack Hurley Program: October 27 Introduction, Joshua, Judges November 3 Samuel 1, 2; Kings, 1, 2 November 10 Chronicles 1, 2 November 17 Maccabees 1, 2 November 24 Midrash: Ruth, Esther, Judith, Tobit Please bring a Bible and your own morning beverage. Homemade coffee cake will be provided. NO RSVP NECESSARY & NO COST TO ATTEND! ALL ARE WELCOME! Contact: Heather Kinney, Director of Faith Formation, hkinney@stmatthewscathedral.org

12 Fall Series: Your Talent for a Greater Purpose Incorporating your faith into work.. and life St. Matthew s Cathedral, North Conference Room Mondays pm (each session is self-contained) Session 1 29 October Session 2 5 November Session 3 12 November Session 4 19 November Session 5 26 November Session 6 3 December Matching your unique gifts to God s intent What is worth living for? Discovering your purpose Who are You? Uncovering your natural talents Seeking God s will through purposeful prayer Setting work + life goals based on good counsel Managing uncertainty, moving forward In all things God works for those who have been called according to his purpose. (Rom 8:28) He knit [you] together in [your] mother s womb. (Psalm 139:13) Don t confuse what the world has taught you (education, society etc) with what God has naturally gifted you. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take. (Proverbs 3:5-6 ) Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed. (Proverbs 15:22) "For I know the plans I have for you.. plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." (Jeremiah 29:11) Where your deepest gladness meets the world s deepest hunger, that is the place where God calls you. No fee. No prior registration required. For questions please contact: Hiranya Fernando (series facilitator): hiranyaf22@gmail.com,

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14 Parish Pastoral Council Elections Coming in November! Are you interested in getting more involved with the work of the parish? Do you know someone who is? Consider serving on the St Matthew s Parish Pastoral Council! You, the members of the Cathedral Parish of St. Matthew the Apostle comprise a diverse, talented group of people. We all know we should give of our first fruits to God. Serving on the Parish Pastoral Council is an excellent way for you to use your talents and give from your first fruits. During your service, some of you may discover talents you don t even know you have! So, you don t know what the Parish Pastoral Council does? The Council advises and assists Msgr Jameson on ministries, programs and other important activities of the parish. The Council is composed of 18 voting members whose recommendations are given strong consideration by the rector in his decision-making. On the reverse side, you can read more about the work of the Council. About this year s election This November, parishioners will be electing six new members to the Parish Pastoral Council. We must identify candidates by October 19, Please consider becoming a candidate or encourage any parishioner you consider a good potential candidate to come forward. Who is eligible to run? Candidates should be at least 18 years old, registered parishioners in good standing, and persons of good judgment, dedication, prayer, and in accord with the laws of the Catholic Church. How do you become a candidate? If you would like to be considered, please submit no later than October19, 2012 a letter indicating your interest a 100 word (maximum!) blurb and a picture of yourself for the ballot. The photo should be a good, clear headshot. In your letter, explain why you would like to be a member of the Parish Council, your understanding of the work of the Council, how you would contribute to that work, and information about yourself (e.g., years of being a Catholic/spiritual journey, what you do for a living, current or past ministry involvement for St. Matthew's or another parish, etc.). You may submit the letter, blurb and photo electronically to stmatthewsppc@gmail.com or leave a copy for Dan Evans, Parish Pastoral Council Election Co-Chairman, at the parish offices.

15 The Parish Cathedral of St. Matthews the Apostle Parish Pastoral Council The Parish Pastoral Council advises and assists the Rector on ministries, programs and other activities of the parish. The council is composed of 18 voting members, 12 of whom are elected and six of whom are appointed by the Rector. An election to choose new council members is held each November. New council members begin their term, normally three years, in December. The council meets at 6:45 p.m. on the first Monday of the month in the East conference room. All parishioners are welcome and invited to assist the council in studying issues affecting the parish, and coordinating and assisting with parish activities. The council maintains six permanent committees: Communications Faith Formation Hospitality Liturgy Social Justice and Community Services Stewardship and Development Each committee is chaired by a member of the pastoral council. Those council members not chairing a committee are assigned to a committee. The Communications Committee assists the Cathedral Rector, clergy and staff in disseminating information about Cathedral activities and programs. It also helps communicate information to the public about the Cathedral's special events, programs and history. This serves to enhance public understanding of the importance of the Cathedral in the life of the Archdiocese and of Washington, D.C. Activities include the preparation and distribution of brochures and pamphlets to hotels and tour organizations, establishing relationships with local media and updating the parish website. The Faith Formation Committee seeks to provide Christian education and spiritual formation of the parish. Overall goals include fostering workplace spirituality, helping us to live the Gospel message in our daily lives, and suggesting useful ways to put our faith into practice. Among its programs are multi-week lecture series, a four-year Bible study program and occasional special lectures by noted speakers. The committee also sponsors weekly Scripture study groups and parish days of recollection in Advent and Lent. Additional courses in Scripture and Catholic tradition are offered periodically. The Hospitality Committee helps bring the parish closer to God by creating Christian fellowship. Activities include assisting parish staff and organizations in coordinating social functions, including the monthly hospitality weekend, and welcoming new parishioners into full participation in Cathedral activities. The Liturgy Committee strives to bring the Cathedral parish community closer to God in the celebration of God s presence through liturgy, including the sacraments. Activities include supporting all parish liturgies and coordinating the liturgical ministers; participating in the planning of special liturgies for holidays, special groups or occasions; working with the music director to enhance the integration of music into liturgy; and planning programs to promote the understanding of liturgy. The Social Justice and Community Services Committee mobilizes the people and resources of the parish in a mission of service to one another. Activities include identifying the needs of parishioners and the local community, along with establishing projects which will provide opportunities to meet their material and spiritual needs. One of its flagship services is the parish Monday morning homeless ministry which offers breakfast, scripture study, clothing and toiletries in a welcoming environment. The Stewardship and Development Committee identifies, analyzes and recommends strategies to develop long-term, quality pastoral ministries and programs. Activities include advising the rector on development projects, serving as a conduit to the rector for recommendations from members of the parish community and engaging in fund-raising activities when warranted.

16 Elecciones del Consejo Pastoral Parroquial Próximo Noviembre! A Usted, Le interesaría estar más comprometido en las actividades de la Parroquia? Conoce a alguien a quien le pueda interesar? Considere servir en el Consejo Pastoral Parroquial de San Mateo! La comunidad de la Catedral de San Mateo Apóstol se distingue por su diversidad y multiplicidad de talentos. Sabemos que las primicias de nuestros frutos corresponden a Dios. Servir en el Consejo Pastoral Parrouial es un excelente modo de usar nuestros talentos y ofrecer a Dios las primicias de sus frutos. Durante el tiempo de servicio alguien puede también descubrir en sí mismo capacidades y talentos que estuvieron ocultos hasta el momento. Que usted no conoce las funciones del Consejo Pastoral Parroquial? El Consejo efectúa recomendaciones y asiste al Rector, Monseñor Jameson, sobre los ministerios, programas y otras importantes actividades de la parroquia. El Consejo se compone de 18 miembros con capacidad de voto, cuyas recomendaciones reciben especial atención en la toma de decisiones por parte del Rector. En el reverso de esta página puede interiorizarse más sobre las responsabilidades del Consejo. Sobre la elección de este año En el mes de Noviembre de 2012 los miembros de la parroquia elegirán 6 nuevos miembros del Consejo Pastoral Parroquial. Los candidatos deben ser identificados hasta el 19 de Octubre de Por favor considere ser un/a candidato/a y aliente a otras personas que usted considere adecuadas para que presenten su candidatura. Quién es elegible para postularse como candidato? Los candidatos deben tener por lo menos 18 años, estar registrados como miembros de la Parroquia, ser personas de buen juicio, dedicación y oración, y encontrarse en situación acorde con las leyes de la Iglesia Católica. Cómo postularse como candidato al Consejo? Si quiere ser candidato, por favor envíe no más tarde del 19 de Octubre de 2012 lo siguiente: Una nota manifestando su intención de ser candidato. Anexos a la nota una hoja de vida de aproximadamente 10 renglones, y una foto tamaño carnet, elementos que serán utilizados para organizar la votación. En su hoja de vida explique por favor por qué le gustaría ser miembro del Consejo Parroquial, qué entiende sobre la labor del Consejo, cómo le parece que puede contribir a esa labor e información sobre usted ( por ejemplo, años de ser católico/trayectoria espiritual, su actividad cotidiana, actuales y anteriores participaciomes en ministerios parroquiales, ya sea en San Mateo o en otras parroquias, etc.). Puede enviar la nota y sus anexos electrónicamente a stmatthewsppc@gmail.com o dejar una copia dirigida a Felix Fernandez Pizzi, Co-Presidente de las Elecciones del Consejo Pastoral Parroquial, en las oficinas de la parroquia.