Blog Archives - Christ the King Church

‘Angel of Dachau’ Declared Martyr by Pope Francis

1/29/2016

‘Angel of Dachau’ Declared Martyr by Pope Francis VATICAN CITY — Father Engelmar Unzeitig, a young priest with Czech roots serving in Germany and Austria, was arrested by the Nazis on April 21, 1941.

His crime? Preaching against the Third Reich from his pulpit, particularly against their treatment of the Jewish people. He encouraged his congregation to be faithful to God and to resist the lies of the Nazi regime.

As punishment, Father Unzeitig was sent to what has been called the “largest monastery in the world”: Dachau concentration camp, which became renowned for the number of ministers and priests within its walls...Read more

Pope Francis: ‘We Can Be Mediators of Mercy VATICAN CITY — On Wednesday, Pope Francis renewed his appeal for the faithful to put the works of mercy into practice during the jubilee, urging them to open their hearts to others and to show God’s tenderness to those who suffer.

In his Jan. 27 general audience, the Pope recounted how “Divine Mercy had saved” the biblical figure of Moses from death in the waters of the Nile as a newborn infant...Read more

World Youth Day Meeting, Jan. 29 @ 7pm

1/28/2016

Pilgrimage with the Pope and a Saint: World Youth Day 2016 July 2016 be part of a 17-day pilgrimage to Poland for a gathering with Pope Francis and youth from around the world to celebrate World Youth Day 2016 in Krakow. As part of the pilgrimage, we will also visit Wadowice, the birthplace of St Pope John Paul II as well as Czestochowa, Auschwitz & Birkenau, where St. Maximillian Kolbe gave his life and much more. There will be an information meeting 7pm., Jan 29 in Schuh Hall at St. John’s. For more details, contact Mr. Dan Kitzhaber.

CATHOLIC Adventure Camp June 19-24. This is for teens currently in grades 6-12. Crosswoods Christian Adventure Camp, located south of Ashland, has been reserved for the Diocese of LaCrosse! This high adventure week will offer you the chance for rock climbing, repelling, canoeing, mountain bike riding, low ropes and high ropes, adventure trails, hiking, and time for prayer, the sacraments and reflection on God’s marvelous creation. The total cost will be about $385 for youth and $200 for adults. Signup soon. INFORMATION MEETING: Mon., Feb., 16, 7pm in Columbia Room of St. John’s school. Financial help is available. If you have any other questions, please contact Mr. Dan Kitzhaber.

SHS High School Luncheon Bible Study: Every Tuesday meet in room 310 during your lunch period. Bring a hunger to grow in your faith. We take turns providing the food. We read, discuss & share God’s Word and the food. This year, we’ll be reading the Gospel of Mark. This is a GREAT opportunity! Bring your friends!!

Teen & Young Adult Retreat Team Looking for teens and young adults to help lead youth retreats. Living Stones is the name of the group and it rocks! Meet lots of great people, grow in your faith, and have tons of fun. If interested, contact Mr. Dan Kitzhaber.Pilgrimage with the Pope and a Saint: World Youth Day 2016 July 2016 be part of a 17-day pilgrimage to Poland for a gathering with Pope Francis and youth from around the world to celebrate World Youth Day 2016 in Krakow. As part of the pilgrimage, we will also visit Wadowice, the birthplace of St Pope John Paul II as well as Czestochowa, Auschwitz & Birkenau, where St. Maximillian Kolbe gave his life and much more. There will be an information meeting 7pm., Jan 29 in Schuh Hall at St. John’s. For more details, contact Mr. Dan Kitzhaber.

How to Forgive Offenses Willingly

1/27/2016

The fifth spiritual work of mercy (to forgive offenses willingly) is one of the hardest to perform. Jesus did not go easy on His disciples when they asked about this attribute of discipleship:

“Then Peter came up and said to him, ‘Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? As many as seven times?’ Jesus said to him, “I do not say to you seven times, but seventy times seven.” (Matthew 18:21-22)

Jesus instructs His apostles to forgive “seventy times seven,” which is believed by scholars to mean “without limit.” This forgiveness Jesus speaks of stands in contrast to the “limitless” vengeance Lamech proclaimed in the book of Genesis:

“If Cain is avenged sevenfold, truly Lamech seventy-sevenfold.” (Genesis :24)

If we are to be a true follower of Jesus, we must become missionaries of forgiveness instead of warriors of vengeance.

Above all, we must not limit our own forgiveness of others lest we become hypocrites. How can we be forgiven of all our sins in the sacrament of Confession if we continue to hold a grudge against our neighbor and refuse to forgive them?

Jesus reminds us, “For with the judgment you pronounce you will be judged, and the measure you give will be the measure you get” (Matthew 7:2).

If we want Jesus’ mercy to be limitless for us, should we not have boundless mercy towards others?

When Pope John Paul II was shot in St. Peter’s Square, he quickly forgave his attacker at the first moment he could. In fact, he forgave his assassin during the ambulance ride to the hospital!

The greatest way we can cultivate a forgiving heart is devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. He is Mercy itself and teaches us the perfect and boundless way of forgiveness. When we find ourselves unwilling to forgive, we must recite these words:

O Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, Make My Heart Like Unto Thine!

Think about this work of mercy for a few minutes and while you do that, think over the past year. Do you hold any grudges towards friends or family members? Are you willing to forgive them? They may not be open to your forgiveness, but that is up to them. All you need to worry about is having a right relationship with God and holding onto the past, seeking retribution, can injure that relationship.

If you can not forgive, ask Jesus for the strength. One of the regrets many people have on their death-beds is that they didn't forgive someone.

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February Activities: PCCW Meeting, Baptism-Prep Class, & More!

1/26/2016

Ladies of the parish an invitation is extended to you to attend the next Parish Council of Catholic Women’s meeting on Tuesday February 2, 2016 @ 7 p.m. in the dining hall of church. Our guest speaker for this evening will be Alora Rueth and her topic will be “Bringing Country Women Together.” Please plan to attend and see what “Your” PCCW is all about. We look forward to seeing you. '

The next “Baptismal” preparation class will be on Tuesday - February 9, 2016 @ 5:30 pm - 8 pm. @ St. John’s in Mfld. / Columbia room of the school. Pre-registration is required; please do so by calling 715-659-4480. For those not registered as members at Christ the King parish, information will be given on how to do so. This class is mandatory for all parents expecting their first child and/or those who have not taken Father Martin’s baptismal class.

Would you like to go to Italy during Jubilee Year of Mercy on a “Pilgrimage to Italy” for the Diaconate Ordination of Aaron Becker from September 21 thru October 1, 2016 Sponsored by St. Bronislava Catholic Church . George’s International Tours has informed us that there are limited openings available but you must take and fill out a reservation application soon. Brochures on this trip along with applications can be found on back table in church.

* Evenings of Recollection * Eucharistic Adoration and Reflection * Meditations in honor of the “Year of Mercy” led by Father Samuel Martin * Evenings will alternate between the parishes of St.. John’s / Mfld and Christ the King / Spencer . Time: 6:30 pm-8 pm . on February 11, 2016 @ Christ the King Theme: Our Lady of Lourdes and St. Bernadette

Christ the King “Holy Name Society Annual Pancake Breakfast” will be held on Sunday-February 21, 2016. Your attendance would be greatly appreciated. Remember this is the only Holy Name Society event held at your parish each year and your support is needed to purchase raffle tickets and attend the

Homily for the Third Sunday in Ordinary Time

1/25/2016

Here is the latest homily from St. John the Baptist Catholic Church for the Third Sunday in Ordinary Time:

Click here to listen to the homily

The Number of Christian Martyrs Has Tripled in Two Years

1/22/2016

The Number of Christian Martyrs Has Tripled in Two Years by CNA/EWTN NEWS — In 2013, there were some 2,100 Christians killed for faith-related reasons across the globe. But within two years, by 2015, that number rose to at least 7,100, according to a recent report from an advocacy group. “The persecution of Christians is getting worse, in every region in which we work, and it’s getting worse fast,” Lisa Pearce, CEO of Open Doors UK and Ireland, said in the group’s 2016 report. “Many countries have dropped down the list, not because persecution there is decreasing, but simply because others are getting worse faster. And it wasn’t good three years ago.”...Read more

Pope Francis: Baptism Unifies Christians by CNA/EWTN VATICAN CITY — In his general audience, Pope Francis focused on the common baptism Christians share, saying the strength of this bond is stronger than existing divisions. “We are truly the holy people of God, even if, due to our sins, we are not yet a people fully united,” the Pope said in his Jan. 20 general audience, adding that “the mercy of God, which works in baptism, is stronger than our divisions.”...Read more

Scholarship Available to High School Seniors

1/21/2016

High School Seniors of Christ the King Parish: Is your faith important to you? Do you plan to continue practicing it in your career and as you attend college, technical or another institute of learning. If so, two scholarships sponsored by the parish P.C.C.W. and Holy Name Society are available. If you are interested, please see your guidance counselor at the high school or stop by the parish rectory office for an application during weekday office hours. Other students, who have already graduated from high school, who are members of the parish may also apply, but first priority will go to the high school seniors, of our parish. Return your completed application to the parish office by deadline of Thursday—March 31, 2016 @ noon.

CATHOLIC Adventure Camp June 19-24. This is for teens currently in grades 6-12. Crosswoods Christian Adventure Camp, located south of Ashland, has been reserved for the Diocese of LaCrosse! This high adventure week will offer you the chance for rock climbing, repelling, canoeing, mountain bike riding, low ropes and high ropes, adventure trails, hiking, and time for prayer, the sacraments and reflection on God’s marvelous creation. The total cost will be about $385 for youth and $200 for adults. Signup soon. INFORMATION MEETING: Mon., Feb., 16, 7pm in Columbia Room of St. John’s school. Financial help is available. If you have any other questions, please contact Mr. Dan Kitzhaber.

Pilgrimage with the Pope and a Saint: World Youth Day 2016 July 2016 be part of a 17-day pilgrimage to Poland for a gathering with Pope Francis and youth from around the world to celebrate World Youth Day 2016 in Krakow. As part of the pilgrimage, we will also visit Wadowice, the birthplace of St Pope John Paul II as well as Czestochowa, Auschwitz & Birkenau, where St. Maximillian Kolbe gave his life and much more. There will be an information meeting 7pm., Jan 29 in Schuh Hall at St. John’s. For more details, contact Mr. Dan Kitzhaber.

SHS High School Luncheon Bible Study: Every Tuesday meet in room 310 during your lunch period. Bring a hunger to grow in your faith. We take turns providing the food. We read, discuss & share God’s Word and the food. This year, we’ll be reading the Gospel of Mark. This is a GREAT opportunity! Bring your friends!!

Teen & Young Adult Retreat Team Looking for teens and young adults to help lead youth retreats. Living Stones is the name of the group and it rocks! Meet lots of great people, grow in your faith, and have tons of fun. If interested, contact Mr. Dan Kitzhaber.

How to Admonish & Bear Wrongs Patiently

1/20/2016

The next spiritual work of mercy is one that few of us like to engage in: “admonish the sinner.” This work of mercy is highly misunderstood and many of us do not know how to “admonish” in a Christian context.

Admonish the Sinner

Let us first look at the biblical roots of this work of mercy. Jesus provides His own explanation:

"Jesus said, 'If your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault, between you and him alone. If he listens to you, you have gained your brother. But if he does not listen, take one or two others along with you, that every word may be confirmed by the evidence of two or three witnesses. If he refuses to listen to them, tell it to the church; and if he refuses to listen even to the church, let him be to you as a Gentile and a tax collector. Truly, I say to you, whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven'" (Mathew 18:15-18).

Jesus says we should first seek out our brother in private. First of all, this means that admonition is a private affair, rather than a public exposition. Additionally, Jesus calls the other person "your brother." This highlights the fact that admonition is best done in the context of an established relationship. A person is much more likely to listen to a trusted friend or relative, than a street preacher. While the message might be the same and true, it does not mean it will be effective.

Saint Paul echoes these words when he writes,

"If any one refuses to obey what we say in this letter, note that man, and have nothing to do with him, that he may be ashamed. Do not look on him as an enemy, but warn him as a brother" (2 Thessalonians 3:14).

So the next time you feel called to admonish someone for the sake of their own salvation, remember to do so in private and in the context of an established relationship. Otherwise, it is very likely it will fall on deaf ears.

To Bear Wrongs Patiently

The fourth spiritual work of mercy is simple, but difficult in practice. We all know how to be charitable and patient to those who are pleasant, and kind to us. However, our initial reaction is not "patience" when a rude person cuts in line in front of us after waiting for an hour at the DMV.

Jesus had this to say in response,

"'You have heard that it was said, "An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth." But I say to you, Do not resist one who is evil. But if any one strikes you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also; and if any one would sue you and take your coat, let him have your cloak as well; and if any one forces you to go one mile, go with him two miles.'" (Matthew 5:38-41)

Jesus’ instruction to "turn the other cheek" is radically different than what the world (and our own sinful hearts) want to do. We feel that when someone hurts us in some way we must "return the favor."

One of the many saints who gave us examples on how to perform this work of mercy is Saint Thérèse of Lisieux. While in the convent her first "victory" consisted in "bearing wrongs patiently." She narrates in her Story of a Soul,

"A small jar, left behind a window, was found broken. No one knew who had put it there, but our Mistress was displeased, and, thinking I was to blame in leaving it about, told me I was very untidy and must be more careful in future. Without answering, I kissed the ground and promised to be more observant. I was so little advanced in virtue that these small sacrifices cost me dear, and I had to console myself with the thought that at the day of Judgment all would be known."

Similarly, Saint Thérèse was tested when a fellow nun annoyed her,

"For a long time my place at meditation was near a Sister who fidgeted continually, either with her Rosary, or something else; possibly, as I am very quick of hearing, I alone heard her, but I cannot tell you how much it tried me. I should have liked to turn round, and by looking at the offender, make her stop the noise; but in my heart I knew that I ought to bear it tranquilly, both for the love of God and to avoid giving pain. So I kept quiet, but the effort cost me so much that sometimes I was bathed in perspiration, and my meditation consisted merely in suffering with patience."

Going forward, let us learn from the example of Saint Thérèse and combat the sinful desires in our heart. We might want to strike back at someone, even for such a small thing as being annoying in the adoration chapel, but we must not let our fallen nature overtake us. We must allow God to penetrate our heart and transform it into something new.

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Be a Light to the World

1/19/2016

Living Lights Christ the King Social Justice Committee In this “year of Mercy” we would like to challenge each of you to embrace the richness of our Catholic social teaching and answer the call to justice and charity. The center of this teaching is honoring the life, dignity and rights of all humans. What can we do? During January, we encourage you to support, volunteer and/or pray for sanctity of life from conception to natural death. You could take time to contact your political representatives and ask them to support life in the way they vote, send a card to parent(s) of a newborn, thanking them for choosing life, visit / help the elderly or those in a nursing home or shelter. Please pray for those who will be taking part in the March for Life Pilgrimage from January 20 thru January 24, 2016, in Washington, D.C. Let the “Light of the Lord” shine through you.

* Evenings of Recollection * Eucharistic Adoration and Reflection * Meditations in honor of the “Year of Mercy” led by Father Samuel Martin * Evenings will alternate between the parishes of St.. John’s / Mfld and Christ the King / Spencer . Time: 6:30 pm-8 pm . on January 21, 2016 @ St. John the Baptist Parish in Mfld. Theme: Pro-Life Vigil

Would you like to go to Italy during Jubilee Year of Mercy on a “Pilgrimage to Italy” for the Diaconate Ordination of Aaron Becker from September 21 thru October 1, 2016 Sponsored by St. Bronislava Catholic Church . George’s International Tours has informed us that there are limited openings available but you must take and fill out a reservation application soon. Brochures on this trip along with applications can be found on back table in church.

The next “Baptismal” preparation class will be on Tuesday - February 9, 2016 @ 5:30 pm - 8 pm. @ St. John’s in Mfld. / Columbia room of the school. Pre-registration is required; please do so by calling 715-659-4480. For those not registered as members at Christ the King parish, information will be given on how to do so. This class is mandatory for all parents expecting their first child and/or those who have not taken Father Martin’s baptismal class.

Homily for the Second Sunday in Ordinary Time

1/18/2016

Here is the latest homily from St. John the Baptist Catholic Church for the Second Sunday in Ordinary Time:

Click here to listen to the homily

MASS SCHEDULE
Tuesday - Friday: 8:00 AM
Saturday: 4:00 PM
Sunday: 8:00 AM & 10:00 AM

RECONCILIATION
Saturday: 3:15 - 3:45 PM

OFFICE HOURS
Monday - Thursday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Friday: 8:30 AM – 12:30 PM

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Welcome from Our Pastor

Welcome to Christ the King Catholic Church! Ever since 1938 this parish has been assisting souls in their quest for deeper union with God. Our mission statement is essentially found in the stained glass window above the main altar: “For Christ our King.” Insofar as God made us and we belong to Him, we have come to... Read More

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