WARM WINTER GREETINGS,

Transcription

1 Vol. 58 No. 1 Dubuque, Iowa WINTER Issue 2015 National Archdiocesan Deanery Parish Dubuque Archdiocesan Council of Catholic Women OFFICERS EPISCOPAL CHAIR Most Rev Michael Jackels, STD Archbishop of Dubuque PO Box 479 Dubuque, IA SPIRITUAL ADVISOR Rev. Msgr. Dean Walz PO Box 182 Delhi, Iowa dbqwalz@arach.pvt.k12.ia.us PRESIDENT Alma Meyer PO Box W. Hancock Calmar, IA ampmeyer@gmail.com VICE PRESIDENT Annette Simonson Eleventh Street Charles City, IA Nannygranny55@hotmail.com PRESIDENT-ELECT Sheila Rassman County Road B 16 Calmar, IA sheilarass4life7@yahoo.com PAST PRESIDENT Mary Rausch PO Box Main Street Fort Atkinson, IA rauschm@acegroup.cc SECRETARY Sue Kuennen Massman Harding Rd Elgin, IA Susan.kuennan@yahoo.com TREASURER Nancy Steffen Hawthorne Ave. Waterloo, IA nsteffen@mchsi.com PARLIAMENTARIAN Lillian McGivern th Street Keystone, IA ejmfarms@netins.net WARM WINTER GREETINGS, As we began the new liturgical year in the church during advent season so is the Dubuque ACCW preparing for the year The Dubuque ACCW Board, Commissions and Committees met at AMRH, Cedar Falls, in November to reorganize. One of the focuses for the next two years will be our role in parishes promoting NCCW s Catholic Women: We Are Called to Witness. This New Evangelization resource, a new, free 91 page document program can be downloaded from www. nccw.org, and is available to any parish for study, meetings and activities; (see the ALMA MEYER Dubuque ACCW President PO Box 377 Calmar, IA topics in the enclosed brochure insert). Be the Voice. Be the Witness. Be the Messenger. Be Blessed in In the edition of the Annual Directory of the Archdiocese of Dubuque, Archbishop Jackels cover letter invites us to join Pope Francis challenge in Evangeli Gaudium, 33, to Abandon the complacent attitude that says: We have always done it this way. I invite everyone to be bold and creative in this task of rethinking goals, structures, style and methods of evangelization in their respective communities I echo these sentiments in ACCW s mission for the next two years. With the flurry of reorganization activities happening since the last issue, new names have been added to those who have been faithfully serving our archdiocese the past two years. Welcome to those joining me on the ACCW Board for the next two years, Vice President (Leadership Commission co-chair) Annette Simonson, Charles City parish, President-elect (Spirituality Commission Chair/ Nominating Committee) Sheila Rassman, Protivin parish, Secretary Sue Kuennen Massman of the Clermont parish, continuing as Treasurer & new Waterloo Deanery president is Nancy Steffen of Barclay parish, new Deanery presidents who are also members of the Leadership Commission: Decorah Deanery President Connie Kepros of Cresco parish, New Hampton Deanery President Yvonne Kisch of Charles City parish, continuing as Dubuque Deanery President Mary Tritz of St. Donatus parish, Marshalltown Deanery Co- Presidents Elaine Upah and Shirley Delfs from Garwin, Waterloo Deanery Marlene Mangrich the new President-elect from Jesup; and also serving on the ACCW Board: Immediate Past President (Leadership Commission Chair/ Nominating Committee) Mary Rausch of the Fort Atkinson parish. All the other deanery contact personnel previously named remain the same until the ACCW is notified of changes. Joanne Pohland of Peosta parish is the co-chair of the Spirituality Commission. Helen Pinter of Spillville parish is the new Service Commission Chair assisted by co-chair Althea Murphy of the Calmar parish. With Archbishop Most Rev. Michael O. Jackels as the Episcopal Chair, Rev. Msgr. Dean Walz as the Dubuque ACCW Spiritual Advisor, assisted by Decorah Deanery Rev. Msgr. Cletus Hawes, Dubuque Deanery Rev. Eugene C. Kutsch, Marshalltown Deanery Rev. Rick Dagit, New Hampton Deanery Rev. Msgr. Carl Schmitt, and Waterloo Deanery Rev. Kenneth Stecher as the Dubuque ACCW Spiritual Advisors. We thank God for blessing us with the counsel of these priests, and the input from the archdiocesan priests convocation survey that will help guide the ACCW Commissions activities. LEADERSHIP COMMISSION chairs with the assistance of the Deanery presidents, president-elects as they are elected, will be responsible for promoting membership, seminarians, outstanding women, nominating, auditing, The New Evangelization program, reviewing governing documents, leadership calls, affiliates, past presidents, and reactivating deaneries. Lillian McGivern will serve as parliamentarian. Publicity, The Link publication, brochures and archdiocesan submissions will be handles by publicist Rose Ann Jero and myself. Priest appreciation will be chaired by Sandy Wilgenbusch, Epworth, and the officers. Photographer will be Rose Mary Knox. Added to the auditing committee are the following accountants Cathy Dietzenbach, Waucoma, Joan Egeland, Ossian, assisted by Christi Meyer of Calmar. SPIRITUALITY COMMISSION chairs will follow the NCCW activities and promote Defense of our Religious Liberty, spirituality adoption of the unborn, education, church liturgy, continued on next page

2 P R A Y E R F O R T H E Y E A R O F C O N S E C R A T E D L I F E O G O D, T H R O U G H O U T T H E A G E S Y O U H A V E C A L L E D W O M E N A N D M E N T O P U R S U E L I V E S O F P E R F E C T C H A R I T Y T H R O U G H T H E E V A N G E L I C A L C O U N S E L S O F P O V E R T Y, C H A S T I T Y, A N D O B E D I E N C E. D U R I N G T H I S Y E A R O F C O N S E C R A T E D L I F E, W E G I V E Y O U T H A N K S F O R T H E S E C O U R A G E O U S W I T N E S S E S O F F A I T H A N D M O D E L S O F I N S P I R A T I O N. T H E I R P U R S U I T O F H O L Y L I V E S T E A C H E S U S T O M A K E A M O R E P E R F E C T O F F E R I N G O F O U R S E L V E S T O Y O U. C O N T I N U E T O E N R I C H Y O U R C H U R C H B Y C A L L I N G F O R T H S O N S A N D D A U G H T E R S W H O, H A V I N G F O U N D T H E P E A R L O F G R E A T P R I C E, T R E A S U R E T H E K I N G D O M O F H E A V E N A B O V E A L L T H I N G S. T H R O U G H O U R L O R D J E S U S C H R I S T, Y O U R S O N, W H O L I V E S A N D R E I G N S W I T H Y O U I N T H E U N I T Y O F T H E H O L Y S P I R I T, O N E G O D, F O R E V E R A N D E V E R. A M E N 2 PRESIDENT S MESSAGE, continued from front page retreats, conferences, parish sacraments, NCCW Mary s Bridal Mantle, vocations & religious community contacts (DAVA) with the assistance of Phyllis Einwalter, Connie Kepros, and Yvonne Kisch, Legislative advocacy and respect/ prolife subcommittee; Edna Brunkhorst, Ellen Markham, Maxine Balk, ACCW Youth Religious Awards & stoles by Ann Dietrich, and Mary Kauffman, (author & deacon s wife) and Lorrie Erusha heading the new ACCW affiliate, Mary s Mantle Women at Prayer group that meets the third Saturday morning of the month in Cedar Rapids. Service Commission chairs assisted by on media concerns, marriage & family topics from NCCW and USCCB, Living the Corporal Works of Mercy, Catholic Relief Services, Cross International, with assistance of service subcommissions, Charlotte Mihm, volunteerism, Sue Martinek, mission work, layettes, trips, NCCW s Caps of Love, human trafficking & domestic abuse prevention, Mary Tritz s help with military families/veterans. Silent auction headed by Lois Ruff, Anita Adams, Elaine Hoffman, Helen Finn. Other committees to be announced as needed. The Dubuque ACCW Archangels will be required to add fun times to meeting agendas as well. One of the NCCW convention s motivational speakers was author Teresa Tomeo, host Angels are mentioned 300 times in the Bible; 15 of those times by Jesus. FROM THE SECRETARY Currently I am an active member of St. Peter Parish in Clermont. I lector, am co-chair of one of our Rosary society circles and serve as Eucharistic Minister including bringing the Eucharist to the nursing homes and shut-ins for more than 30 years. In 2000 I obtained certification as a Parish Nurse assisting with social concerns in our parish community I am honored to be elected as ACCW secretary and look forward to serving you for the next two years. I was the second born child in a family of eight children, and grew up on a farm near Festina. I moved to New Hampton a year after graduation, worked at the Kitchens of Sara Lee for a year, married, then stayed home to care for our two children. From I worked professionally as a secretary/ of the Catholic Connection, produced by AveMariaRadio.net, and she frequently appears on EWTN TV, The Catholic View for Women. I m not an avid book reader, but I purchased one of her books, and read it over the weekend, God s Bucket List ~ Heaven s Surefire Way to Happiness in This Life and Beyond. I would recommend this easy to read contemporary book and suggest this new twist on bucket lists as a gift for anyone to enjoy this winter. Another gift idea for a friend or yourself to be spiritually pampered, is paying the early bird registration special, $48, for the 12th Annual Martha and Mary Womens Conference, Dubuque, scheduled for Saturday, February 21. The full day agenda includes 7:45 rosary, conference begins at 8 AM with four presenters for adults and teens, Eucharistic Adoration, various vendors, CD s of talks, and the day concludes at 5 pm with Mass. No need to get a babysitter for the baby, there is a section in the convention hall reserved for you. Join your sisters from the tri-state area who attend this year after year, for this midwinter boost in faith. For more information regarding the speakers and to register, or The ACCW Board decided to change our quarterly meeting dates to January 27 and 28, 2015, at the AMRH, Cedar Falls. If you wish to contact me in the interim, I m just a phone call away, Thank you for your support and prayers. May Our Lady of Good Counsel intercede for us and continue to warm us with blessings for you and your loved ones this special time of the year. SUE KUENNEN MASSMAN 6905 Harding Rd Elgin, IA susan.kuennen@yahoo.com receptionist with a substance abuse agency. I obtained my masters in nursing with specialization in education. I teach part time at NICC, Calmar and work full time at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN Daughter Jennifer lives in Milwaukee, WI and son B.J lives in Cedar Rapids. I have three grandsons Christian, Devan, and Jedrek. In 2010, Jim Massman and I purchased a 160 acre farm near Clermont. Jim had worked more than 50 years at the John Deere Implement as a salesman and manager. We dated back in high school and reconnected in Jim was diagnosed with cancer in July We were able to marry in August and he ended his earthly journey in November 2011.

3 NCCW SPIRITUALITY COMMISSION You have created us in Your image even though we are all different. We need to open our eyes to see that each person is an intricate part of our lives. Although we are each unique human persons, our faith calls us to love one another. We ask you to watch over and bless the Caps of Love program, which we are undertaking, because it is a way to help our environment, and it provides wheelchairs for our brothers and sisters who are in need. Open the hearts of all to help in this effort. Instill within us the desire to help those who have this need. We ask this through our Lord, Jesus Christ. Amen Denise Haaland 2016 NOMINATING COMMITTEE FOR DUBUQUE ACCW Mary Rausch Cindy Mary Marlene Mangrich Bernice Hackman Sheila Rassman Ann Dietrich MESSAGE FROM THE VICE-PRESIDENT/ LEADERSHIP COMM CO-CHAIR My name is Annette Simonson. I was married to Earl Simonson for a month short of 35 years as he died in March We were parents to nine ANNETTE SIMONSON th Street Charles City, IA 5061 nannygranny55@ hotmail.com children (his, mine and ours) a real life Brady bunch. I am proud to say I am Grandmother to 23 grandchildren (36 years down to 18 months). I was asked to be vice-president of the Dubuque Archdiocesan Council of Catholic Women. My past experience with ACCW included being the Dubuque ACCW Spirituality Commission Chair for two years and president of the New Hampton Deanery for two years. I welcome the chance to be more involved again in ACCW and look forward to the challenges of the next two years. IMPORTANT INFO. BIRTHRIGHT CATHOLIC CHARITIES Plan to attend! September 22-27, WMF North 17th Street Philadelphia, PA PARLIAMENTARIAN - How do you define the duties of your officers and committee members? Your Bylaws should make provisions for the frequency of meetings, dues, the number that constitutes a quorum, how vacancies should be filled and the method of amending the Constitution and Bylaws. Your president appoints a chairman and co-chairman where needed. It is their duty to become familiar with that program and advise others with good leadership in their area. Have a written procedure that keeps all officers and committee personnel doing their jobs effectively without stepping on toes or being too lax in their duties. All of us are members of the ACCW and each member in good standing has all the rights and privileges concomitant with her membership, not the least of which is the right to aspire to and hold office. As our Mission Statement says, we commit ourselves to a lifelong faith formation and to the service of humanity because we believe in the Risen Christ, in the wisdom and kindness of God, the Author of Life, and in the love the Holy Spirit bestows. We are Called to Witness and we do so having fun in life and a lot of pleasant times together. Enjoy the Reason for the Season with your families. 3 LILLIAN McGIVERN th St. Keystone, IA ejmfarms@netins.net

4 PRESIDENT-ELECT/SPIRITUALITY Greetings to all, May the season of Advent fill your hearts with joyful anticipation as we await the coming of the Christ Child. We are renewed each day with gift of faith, hope and love so that all of our actions, and all that we say and can be for the greater glory of God. Join us as we enter the season of Joy and continue the mission to serve, support and defend the precious gift of life. Prayer, advocacy, education, service and YOU are the foundation of this great organization. I am delighted to serve the ACCW as your president-elect during the next two years. In answering this call I encourage and support all women to recognize how the Holy Spirit calls us to be ambassadors & servant-leaders in our lives. On a personal note, I m married to my husband Dale for 33 years; we have five children, Jason, Tami, Jeffrey, Adam and Carrie Jo, one son-in-law Edward, and Penelope Hope our precious two year old granddaughter. I m an active member of Holy Trinity Parish, Christ Our Hope Cluster, and have been blessed to serve in many ministries, both on the Parish and deanery/ diocesan levels, Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion, Lector, musician, cantor, sacristan, Funeral liturgist, Youth Liturgist, church art and environment, lay leader of prayer, Respect Life, speaker for DCRTL speaker bureau and numerous other SHEILA RASSMAN 3298 County Rd B 16 Calmar, IA sheillarass4life7@yahoo.com ministries. I am a volunteer for Birthright, Cresco Care Center, assisting with music and prayer services, and the garden club. One of my true passions is serving on Rachel s Vineyard post-abortion healing ministry team. RV ministry shows us the importance of healing and understanding our wounds. I hope that I can bring fresh ideas and enthusiasm to the ACCW. Feel free to contact me at any time! sheilarass4life7@yahoo.com. In His Service through Her Heart, SPIRITUALITY COMMISSION LIFE ISSUES As the Chair of the Spirituality Commission part of my duty is to encourage legislative advocacy at the local, state, and national levels, guided by Catholic social teaching. Religious Freedom remains a top priority for Catholics. Pope Francis said, Authentic religion is a source of peace, not violence. In a recent meeting with Cardinal Seán P. O Malley, of Boston and Archbishop William E. Lori of Baltimore who chair the USCCB Committee on Pro-Life Activities and Ad Hoc Committee for Religious Liberty, urges congress to incorporate the protections of the Abortion Non- Discrimination Act (ANDA) into must-pass funding legislation. They cited the California Department of Managed Health Care s recent move to mandate elective abortions in all health plans under its jurisdiction, with no religious or moral exemption, as one urgent reason for Congress to improve federal laws protecting conscience rights on abortion. Cardinal O Malley and Archbishop Lori wrote, Government should not force hospitals, doctors, nurses and other providers to stop offering or covering much-needed legitimate health care because they cannot in conscience participate in destroying a developing human life. Pope Francis reminds us, that as we defend religious freedom we must resist the temptation to come down off the Cross to please the people. Every January, for over 4 decades, there has been the March for Life in Washington D.C. The March commemorates the dreadful Roe v. Wade decision, which paved the way for abortion on demand. I will be joining thousands of pro-lifers from across the country for the 42 annual March for Life Event which will take place on Thursday, January 22, 2015 at 12th St., National Mall, Washington, D.C. 12:00 noon Rally, 1:00 p.m. March. The March for Life began as a small demonstration and rapidly grew to be the largest pro-life event in the world. The peaceful demonstration that has followed on this somber anniversary every year since 1973 is a witness to the truth concerning the greatest human rights violation of our time, abortion. A little closer to home, there will be a Midwest March for Life taking place on January 17, 2015 at the State Capital in Des Moines. The event begins with a March on the steps of the 4 Capital from 11:00 am to noon. Many other activities are planned throughout the day. For more information and event schedule please go to: schedule-of-events/ Yet TBD is the annual Rally for Life Day scheduled to take place in April, in at the capital Des Moines. More information to come. Holy Days What is a Holy Day of Obligation, or opportunity as I prefer to call it? These are special days set aside in our Catholic Church which we are called to celebrate by attending Mass according to Canon Law. In the US there are 6 Holy Days of Obligation each year. How privileged we are to belong to the Catholic Church with such special feast days. We have just celebrated three Holy Days of Obligation. Dec 8 is the Feast of the Immaculate Conception, the patron feast of the USA. December 25, Christmas, is always a holy day for obvious reasons. Jan.1st is the Feast of Mary, Mother of God. These days celebrate special events in the life of our Church, the liturgies are always beautiful and it is a true privilege to be in Church on these Feast Days. It is following the law of LOVE that obliges us to attend these Holy Days, as our Lord himself, through the Church He founded, invites us to spend time with our God on these very special events in the life of all Christians, See you at Mass! In closing, I d like to ask for your prayers for the ACCW in this New Year. Prayer is the key to the future success of the ACCW. Your prayers will help move this organization to be the wonderful ministry it was intended to be for the women of our Archdiocese. Through prayer, God will guide us in the direction HE wants us to go so that we can reach the women of our Diocese and help us all strengthen our faith in Him, while doing His work. May God bless you all! Be on guard so that your hearts are not weighed down with... the worries of this life. - Luke 21:34

5 2014 Outstanding Women Award Recipients With Archbishop Jackels and Msgr. Walz Honorees listed alphabetically: Anita Adams, Bonnie Arneson, Grace Arens, Bert Barthel, Jeanette Blong, Edna Brunkhorst, Nancy Cuvelier, Shirley Delfs, Ann Dietrich, Myrna Dostal, Bev Drew, Linda Dvorak, Phyllis Einwalter, Margaret Elsbernd, Helen Finn, Connie Frana, Bernice Hackman, Carolyn Havel, Ellie Hilbert, Helen Hoelscher, Elaine Hoffman, Margaret Hruska, Rose Ann Jero, Kay Shindelar, Connie Kepros, Yvonne Kisch, Ruth Knapp, Rose Mary Knox, Laura Lukes, Pat Lynch, Marlene Mangrich, Ellen Markham, Sue Martinek, Lillian McGivern, Connie Mettille, Alma Meyer, Charlotte Mihm, Patty Mitchell, Althea Murphy, Helen Pinter, Joanne Pohland, Sheila Rassman, Mary Rausch, Kristen Reicks, Shirley Riha, Lois Ruff, Betty Schatz, Joan Schissel, Deb Schmelter, Sister Carol Hoverman, Angie Smith, Margaret Sobolik, Monica Staudt, Nancy Steffen, Florine Swanson, Florence Tilkes, Sandy Timp, Mary Tritz, Elaine Upah, Cathy Wagner, Vera Wiest. Congratulations from the ACCW. To Subscribe to the LINK newsletter of the Dubuque Archdiocesan Council of Catholic Women Please enter my subscription to the LINK $5.00 per year 4 issues per year Amount Paid Date Paid Check No. New Renewal Expiration Date NAME PHONE ADDRESS CITY STATE ZIP ADDRESS National Archdiocesan Deanery Parish Please make checks payable to: Dubuque ACCW Send completed form and payment to: Rose Ann Jero, Editor 1909 Edgebrook Drive Marshalltown, IA ARCHDIOCESAN MISSION STATEMENT: We, the Church of the Archdiocese of Dubuque, are God s people, gathering together as a Eucharistic community to worship, sharing the Word of God, affirming traditional and emerging leadership roles and supporting families to model Catholic faith and morality for the next generation. We commit ourselves to a lifelong faith formation and to the service of humanity because we believe in the Risen Christ, in the wisdom and kindness of God, the Author of life, and in the love the Holy Spirit bestows. 5

6 LEADERSHIP COMMISSION As Catholic women we are called to witness. We are called to be servant leaders. Our faith is to be lived. We are all called to work for the dignity of all life. As co-leadership commission chair, the new role for me will be different. Our new goal for this term will be promoting a New Evangelization provided by NCCW to help parishes and individual members live out our call to evangelize. ACCW now has resources for study, meetings, activities, articles, and websites. Mary Rausch PO Box 37 Fort Atkinson, IA Leadership Commission Co-Chair ***** Evangelization is included in our Council of Catholic Women. We are all journeying with the people of God in our parishes, deaneries, the Archdiocese and in our world, working out our salvation! I hope, as one of the goals in the next two years that I can be instrumental to make our efforts not only worthwhile, but make a difference through doing Christ s work. This in mind, I see Pope Francis secrets to happiness as a springboard. To quote his words, we should move forward and let others do the same. Education in current issues in church and society along with supporting our Church and its teachings will hopefully be a priority for me and concerned women who share the values of our ministry as disciples of Christ now and in the years ahead. Heeding the advice of Pope Francis, we will find greater joy in our life by taking time to study our life s purpose, slowing down, and using our God given gifts of time, talents, and treasure. Connie Kepros 617 5th St. E Cresco, IA Decorah Deanery President and member of leadership commission LEADERSHIP Pro-life: we have heard many reasons to be pro-life. Here is one, with a twist. Recently, I read an article in the National Catholic Register entitled, The Life of a Future Priest. You see, Ryan Allan Kaup, should not be here right now, referencing his mother s almost-abortion, 26 years ago. His mother was about to have an abortion but something inside the frightened, young girl just wouldn t let her to through with it. The child was given up for adoption, hoping that he d be given every chance in life that she could not give him. He was raised in Lincoln, NE., by Catholic parents and went to Catholic schools. Eventually attending college and becoming involved in the Newman center on campus. The example of the priests and friends that he had was instrumental in his vocation. Next spring, he will be ordained a priest. Thank God for his mother s choice to choose life! Please pray every day the prayer of Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen, for spiritual adoption. Jesus, Mary Joseph, I love you very much. I beg you to spare the life of the unborn baby that I have spiritually adopted, who is in danger of abortion. It will only take a few minutes to say this prayer. Maybe someone, 26 years ago, knelt and said this prayer and saved the life of soonto-be Fr. Ryan Allan Kaup. Maybe it was you! Yvonne Kisch 1180 Underwood Ave Charles City, IA New Hampton Deanery President and member of leadership commission SERVICE COMMISSION Keep always before your eyes the example of the Good Shepherd who came not to be served but to serve. - Pope Francis Layettes This winter as you work on the layettes (some work on layettes constantly) keep in mind to check with local places: hospitals, birthright, Gabriel project, food pantries, and Storks Nest. Some of these have certain wishes. You can give me a call ( ) with the number you have made and where they are stored and I will try to match you with a need. I am making a spread sheet by deanery and then by parish and a list of needs and contact people. Keep me busy! I am hoping to have the best landslide ever by October. A source to purchase diaper pins wwwalpinebabyhub. They have 144 pins for $ Recipe to brighten garage sale, thrift store baby clothes First mix 1 qt. liquid bleach with 3 qt warm water. Mix Add 1/3 c powered laundry detergent. I ve had great success with Tide boost pads. Let soak about 2 hours and wash as usual. If you know it is a protein stain (milk etc.) soak in Biz over night. Usually layettes consist of 1 large blanket 6 diapers 2 diaper pins 2 shirts 2 sleepers 1 sox 1 plastic pant 1 soap (I have found a source for plastic pants. I will get a quantity and bring to Cedar Falls in January) Mission Needs I am willing to be a clearing house for pillow cases and fabric for Haiti dresses. There is a need for suitcases you not longer use to take clothing and supplies on the mission trips. Unless these things are physically carried they seem to disappear. The Haitian people then use them to keep their supplies. Military Pray for Our Military Support your local families. Check with local veteran s organization and learn who they are. Put a petition in the prayer of the faithful at Mass. Refer to the article in the Summer 2014 issue of The Link. Mary Tritz, a veteran from Dubuque shared with me a copy of Salute, the magazine of the Archdiocese of the Military Service. Send a financial donation to PO Box 4469 Washington D. C and you will be placed on their mailing list. It s a great quarterly. Helen Pinter th Street Fort Atkinson, IA dhpinter@acegroup.com Service Commission Co-Chair 6

7 RESPECT LIFE The November elections brought many pro-life political victories. Such victories alone will not stop the cultural decay caused by abortion, contraception, euthanasia, and the attack on marriage. While a handful of people with political power can decide on the legality of various elements of the Culture of Death, the real problem is that millions think it is morally acceptable to murder the innocent preborn, discard the disabled and elderly, and destroy marriage as God defined it. We must change hearts and minds to build a Culture of Life! The fight for life, family, faith and freedom continues. Our job now is to hold their (newly elected) feet to the fire. The prolife bills that Harry Ried held hostage should all be brought forward and passed come January. It will not be easy but with persistence, it can be done. In Iowa, the fight will be more difficult since the majority continues to lean pro-abortion. Hopefully, the pro-life members will be energized by the national results. In addition to the political process, pro-lifers can continue to educate and promote the culture of life through local witness. In the last issue of the LINK (August 2014) I mentioned that the 40 Days for Life Campaign would be starting in September. This most recent campaign which ended on November 2 reported 726 babies saved. Since 2007, a total of 9,699 babies were saved, 107 abortion workers quit their jobs, and 59 centers closed. There were 625,000 volunteers on the front lines (probably more), 3,336 local campaigns in 559 cities and 27 nations. These statistics show the success of prayer, fasting and witnessing in front of the mills. I believe that most of you have been able to contribute by prayer & fasting but wonder if all have been on the front lines. You don t have to wait for the next campaign to try it. Many pro-life groups witness year round either on abortion days or whenever the center is open. Check with your local group. Some people feel a bit intimidated to go out there. My thought is that it is best to go with someone you know who has been there before, just because you will be more comfortable. Then, once you ve done it, you will realize there was nothing to be afraid of and you will experience how rewarding it is for you as well as the moms & especially the babies. If you are pro-life, you need to be on the front lines at least occasionally. That is where you experience the gut wrenching reality of what abortion is. That is where the most important pro-life work is done. That is where babies are saved. That is where babies are saved just in the nick of time! Last summer I had an experience quite unlike other times I ve been to the mills. Three of us attended the National Right to Life convention in Louisville, Kentucky. I wrote the following reflection which I now share with you: We almost didn t go. We were trying to get to mass but got lost and we were too late. So we decided we would join the local pro-life group in their protest at the EMW Women s Surgical Center. They do abortions every Tuesday through Saturday. We had been invited and given directions the day before. It was only a couple blocks from the hotel. The local CPC is right next door to the mill. Their situation is unique, in that they can go right up to the girls because the public sidewalk is right in front of the building like we had it while Planned Parenthood was down on Central Avenue. We arrived a few minutes late and things were already bustling with activity. People were milling about in pairs, wearing vests or not. They were on each of the 4 corners; we weren t sure if they were pro-life or pro-abort. We just kept walking; when we arrived, we 7 simply stood in line with the other protesters, prayed and visited a little to learn the ropes. We noticed a no parking sign directly in front of the abortion facility. But not your usual sign. It said, No parking 6 AM 10 AM Saturday Passenger Pick-up & Drop-off. It made me think this must be a busy place. It made me sick to my stomach. There must be a lot of babies killed here. ELLEN MARKHAM 1724 Geraldine Dr. Dubuque, IA elmarkham@mchsi.com The sidewalks were lined with pro-life witnesses, some wearing yellow/green fluorescent vests. Some were praying, some were preaching, others stood quietly holding signs. The front entrance had orange vested deathscorts on the right and protesters to the left. Anyone coming to the clinic that morning had to walk through the lined sidewalk and between the two groups to enter. Upon arrival, they were met at whichever corner by 2 deathscorts & 2 sidewalk counselors. Surrounded, they were encouraged to change their minds, to rethink their decision and were offered help. Meanwhile, the orange vests were hurrying them inside and telling them to ignore what was said. We were told that the young counselors were from the youth group at a local Baptist Church. They were impressive. Always loving the women, offering their help and never cowering to the orange vests. It was awful. One after another came around the corner in every direction on her way to have her baby killed. My stomach was upset and my heart heavy. I had never seen anything like it. Now, I have protested a several abortion sites and it is never pleasant but this was almost surreal. The women just kept coming and coming and the counselors kept working and the deathscorts kept scurrying around to get them inside as fast as possible. As soon as one was inside, another was coming from a different direction. I was thinking, we have to stay here. There is no way we can go back to the conference and not be a presence here for the women and the babies. Someone must be a witness for them. They just keep coming. Suddenly it was over. Apparently all those with appointments had arrived. No more counseling could be done. No more needed escorting past us. One deathscort started collecting orange vests. People started dispersing. The sidewalks were clearing. Seventeen girls were escorted in that morning. It took less than an hour. No, it wasn t really over. The abortionist hadn t yet arrived. They come around 11. But there wasn t any more that we could do. They were all inside. There were two adult women there, inviting the women to come out, letting them know it s not too late and help is available; reminding them of God s love for them. But no one came out. Maybe someone would still change her mind. Maybe our presence made a difference. But we will never know. No one came out; not while we were there. We almost didn t go. In the end, we wondered where the others from the conference were. They should have been there. They should have seen what was going on there. They should have had our experience. You should too. If you are pro-life, you need to be on the front lines at least occasionally. That is where you experience the gut wrenching reality of what abortion is. That is where the most important pro-life work is done. That is where babies are saved. That is where babies are saved just in the nick of time! Utilize weekly reminders for church bulletins from

8 CONVENTION NOW HISTORY After months of planning and apprehension, ACCW Convention came and went. We give glory to our God Almighty who gave us the grace to make it work. We did it and many thanks to all who contributed to the success of the convention. Some of the highlights will be in print and/or pictures. The ACCW convention was held at the beautiful St. Mary Church and hall at Waverly. On Friday afternoon ladies came to help decorate and set up tables for the silent auction and the commission/committee table displays. As women we do multiple tasks as we also prayed the Rosary. Thanks to Edna Brunkhorst, Fr. Schatz and the St. Mary parish and staff that helped in various ways. The ACCW Convention brought together nearly a 100 ladies from the 11 deaneries of the Dubuque Archdiocese. The theme was Be the Voice of United Catholic Women. The convention booklets were reviewed. The booklet contained the written messages from Archbishop Jackels, NCCW President Rebecca Woodhull, Province Director Jean Gubbels as well as reports from officers, commissions and committees. The booklet provided a glimpse of the highlights of many women working together. The minutes from the October 19, 2013 meeting in Ossian and the 2014 treasurer s report were accepted as printed. The proposed by-law changes were tabled. Joan Gubbels (Council Bluff) from the Des Moines Diocese gave a report on her position as the current Iowa Province Director. We elected by written ballot the new officers. Thanks to the nominating committee and all who assisted with credentials and as election tellers. Before the 11:00 a.m. Mass, the Signs of Christ (Turkey Valley High School students) gave their signing program showing us another way to pray. The Mass celebrants were Archbishop Jackels, ACCW Spiritual Advisor, Msgr. Dean Walz, guest priest Rev. Jim Tigges of Humbolt and Deacon Phil Paladino (see photo below). Following the Mass, the Dubuque ACCW Leadership Certificates were presented by Archbishop Jackels to the Outstanding Women nominated by parish priests and organizations. Group pictures were taken. The ladies from the Waterloo Deanery Council of Catholic Women beautifully decorated the hall and tables and served a delicious roast beef dinner with all the trimmings. President Mary Rausch presented Archbishop Jackels with $1000 check from the Dubuque ACCW. He said he will use it towards purchasing gospel tracts for the confirmation classes. The Signs of Christ presented more of their excellent program. At 1:00 p.m. NCCW President Dr. Rebecca Woodhull of Springfield, Illinois gave a power point presentation on NCCW activities during the past two years and some highlights of the 2014 ACCW convention. The Madonna and Rosary centerpieces were given as door prizes and names were drawn at MARY RAUSCH P. O. Box 37 Fort Atkinson, IA rauschm@acegroup.cc the booths for prizes. The silent auction netted over $800. Thanks to all who donated and purchased items. The memorial service and readings were done by the past ACCW archdiocesan presidents. Tea lights were placed on the top of the wooden cross for those officers who passed away during the past two years. Red lights were placed on the arms of the wood cross for all the departed ACCW presidents and white tea light were presented by the members for ACCW departed members, unborn, priest, mothers, sisters and friends. Fr. David Schatz s mother Betty Schatz, (representing the mothers of our priests) led The Prayer for Vocations. Alma Meyer, the newly elected ACCW president, who had been with her husband flew to Minneapolis, that morning and then drove to Waverly to be at the convention after dinner. She was with her husband who is receiving cancer treatment in Nashville, TN. ACCW President Mary Rausch presented the gavel to Alma. Mary thanked everyone who attended and all those who helped in any way to make the convention a success. It was indeed a privilege and honor for me to have served and represented the Dubuque ACCW for the past two years. Thank you too for the donation for St. Kateri statue. Past president Rose Ann Jero thanked Mary for her time, talent, vision and leadership skills; uniting women in prayer and trusting in the Lord and for serving as president for the past two years. Mary was presented with a gift of a large statue of St. Francis from all of the ACCW ladies. Newly elected President Alma Meyer read the new appointments for commissions and committees for May Our Lady of Good Council continue to enlighten us to be wise, courageous and loving leaders of the Church. May ACCW prosper through the work of our hands. With God, all things are possible. Mary Rausch Past President/Leadership Comm. Co-Chair ACCW President Alma Meyer and Past President Mary Rausch were among the 600 folks who attended the sold out program of Mathew Kelly Living Every Day With Passion and Purpose was led by Mathew Kelly on Saturday November 22 at St. Edwards in Waterloo. He invited us all to identify God s voice in our lives and the specific purpose for which we ve been created. New York Times best-selling author Matthew Kelly inspired attendees to apply the genius of Catholicism to every aspect of our lives including prayer and spirituality, work, dating and marriage, personal finances, health, and well-being, parenting and community involvement. Matthew Kelly and musician Elliot Morris presented a unique message inspired by God and the teachings of the Church. 8

9 Below: Past ACCW Presidents Rose Ann Jero thanks Mary Rausch for her service Betty Schatz leading vocation prayer Dr. Rebecca Woodhull, Mary Rausch Joan Gubbels Signs of Christ (Turkey Valley High School Students) Mary present ACCW check to Archbishop Jackels 9

10 National Archdiocesan Deanery Parish Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Permit No. 184 Dubuque, Iowa Published four times a year by Dubuque Archdiocesan Council of Catholic Women since 1958 $5.00 per year To subscribe or renew your subscription, contact the editor. Please submit all items for the next issue by February 20th to: Rose Ann Jero, Editor 1909 Edgebrook Drive Marshalltown, IA home phone lljero@centurylink.net The ACCW would like to thank Scott Printing & Design for their assistance in putting this newsletter together Year of Consecrated Life BE INFORMED The editor wishes to thank all of the women who have supported The Link financially by becoming subscribers. God Bless You A subscription form is available on page 5 of this issue. Please share the information in The Link or your copy with parish women leaders. EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETINGS: Mass at 3:00 pm; Meeting begins 4:00 pm BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETINGS: Registration begins at 9:00 am; Meeting begins 9:30 am Please contact to make meal reservations AMRH Phone: DBQAMRHsec@arch.pvt.k12.ia.us ~ ACCW-OFFICE~ Dubuque ACCW 1229 Mt. Loretta Dubuque, IA , ext. 209, Answering machine avai lable. For immediate business call CALENDAR OF EVENTS PLEASE NOTE THE CHANGE IN THE JANUARY MEETING DATES (Please make the date change in your Convention Booklet) also correct Althea January 27...Executive Committee held at AMRH January 28...Board of Directors held at AMRH April 7...Executive Committee held at AMRH April 8...Board of Directors held at AMRH July 21...Executive Committee held at AMRH July 22...Board of Directors held at AMRH IMPORTANT DATES 2015 Year of the Consecrated January 17, Midwest March for Life... (11:00 a.m. -12:00 p.m.)... Des Moines Capital February 21, Martha and Mary Conference Dubuque April 20, Rally for Life in Des Moines June Priest Appreciation Convocation September 9-12, NCCW Convention...Walt Disney Resort Orlando Florida September Pope Francis visit to Philadelphia, USA October Dubuque ACCW Convention (accepting bids)