Letters to the Editor
The Catholic Anchor welcomes letters to the editor. Here are some letters which appeared in the latest issue of the Catholic Anchor.
EDITOR’S PICKS
Youth minister aims to ignite spiritual fire in Alaska teens
Ricky Shoop doesn’t approach youth ministry with the goal of creating a fun zone or circus-like atmosphere that competes with the limitless forms of entertainment available to youth. Instead he emphasizes the intellectual capacity of teens, and the importance of fielding their most difficult questions with a sincere response. That might mean dropping all his well-laid plans in a moment. “Any teacher who values their prescribed idea or materials for the day over the inquisitive minds of his students will be prideful and ineffective,” Shoop said. “The kids must first be heard, then answered.”
Deacon lays groundwork for expanded Hispanic outreach in Alaska
Catholic outreach to Hispanics in the Anchorage Archdiocese is about to undergo a dramatic shift. Three members of the Congregation of the Mission, popularly known as Vincentians, will soon be serving the growing number of Southcentral Hispanics. Two of them are priests, and their arrival from Columbia will be determined by how quickly they receive their religious workers visas. But Deacon Arnold Hernandez is already in Anchorage, laying the groundwork for the mission by studying the needs and immersing himself in the local Hispanic culture.
Visiting Jesuit inspired by remote Alaskan Catholics
In some of Alaska’s most remote villages are Catholics who long to experience a deeper connection to the universal Catholic Church. Isolated by violent waves, Pacific storms or frozen tundra these Catholics can go months without ever seeing a priest or celebrating Mass. This stark reality inspires Jesuit Father John Rose’s regular volunteer trips north to minister to these Catholics — communities that can only celebrate the sacraments when visiting priests come through.
Catholic radio station prepares to launch in Anchorage
After more than a decade of planning and prayer, Catholics in Anchorage are mere months away from having a radio station of their very own. “Our slogan is ‘Changing hearts and changing lives,’” explained Brian Metras, lead coordinator of Holy Rosary Academy Radio.
St. Elizabeth Ann Seton hires new principal for next year
St. Elizabeth Ann Seton School in Anchorage will be under new leadership next year when long-time principal Jim Bailey officially retires in May. The hiring of incoming Principal Kathleen Gustafson was announced Feb. 3. She will begin work at the conclusion of the current academic year. According to an announcement by the school, Gustafson, is a veteran of the Anchorage School District. Originally from Park Rapids, Minn., she has worked in public education in Alaska for the past 25 years.
Screening to explore erosion of religious freedom in U.S.
Alaska Family Action, a nonprofit group that advocates for freedom of religion, pro-life and pro-marriage issues in Alaska, will offer a free screening of the documentary “One Generation Away.” Exploring the erosion of religious liberty in America, the film will show on Wednesday, Feb. 4, at The Crossing (22208 N. Birchwood Loop, Chugiak), beginning at 6 p.m.
Presentation on C.S. Lewis & J.R.R. Tolkien: ‘Awkward Allies, Lifelong Friends’
Dr. Bruce Edwards, a scholar, author and professor who has specialized in the works of C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien, will explore the profound friendship of C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien in a Feb. 17 presentation at the Willow Community Center, starting at 7 p.m.
Anchorage archbishop recalls joy and pain of 25 years a bishop
Anchorage Archbishop Roger Schwietz expressed gratitude for his time leading the Duluth Diocese and his past 14 years heading the Archdiocese of Anchorage. He began the interview by recalling the events immediately preceding his appointment by now Saint John Paul II to become a bishop.
Scout Sunday Mass set for Feb. 8 in Palmer
Scouts from Boy Scouts, Trail Life, Girl Scouts and American Heritage Girls are expected to be on hand for the annual Scout Sunday Mass with Anchorage Archbishop Roger Schwietz on Feb. 8. This year’s gathering will take place with an 11 a.m. Mass at St. Michael Church in Palmer, where young scouts will receive religious awards for completing objectives related to spiritual development and growth in their faith.