Monday, December 29, 2014

AL GREEN, TOM HANKS, PATRICIA RICHARDSON, STING, LILY TOMLIN, THE RECIPIENTS OF THE 2014 KENNEDY CENTER HONORS ON CBS BROADCAST..............

The 37th Annual Kennedy Center Honorees awarded on December 7th, will be broadcast tonight in a two hour Special on CBS Television.  This year's recipients are : Soul and Gospel Singer - AL GREEN.  New York City Ballet Ballerina - PATRICIA RICHARDSON.  Television and Two time Best Actor Academy Award Winner - TOM HANKS.  British Singer / Police Band Member and Solo Artist - STING.  Laugh-In, Movie and Broadway Comedienne - LILY TOMLIN.  Of these five talented entertainment icons a fantastic show of tributes is a certainty.  Stephen Colbert is the Master of Ceremonies.  The 2014 Kennedy Center Honors air Tuesday December 30th, at 9 pm Eastern and Pacific, 8 pm Central and Mountain Time..............tdp


DISABLED AND SPECIAL NEEDS PERSONS ARE BRAVE AND HAVE COURAGE NOT JUST @ CHRISTMAS BUT EVERYDAY,,,,,,,,,,,,,,

Spending a few hours with the Handicapables last Sunday was the latest reminder to me forged over more than 50 years of the abilities, interests, and aspirations, of Persons with Disabilities and Special Needs we are capable of attaining if given the opportunity to do so.  I have known  and experienced this from the age of five and a half years old, when as a physically disabled child from birth. I was fitted with a left leg orthopedic brace which became my daily companion for twelve years.  I did not let my youthful challenges with a physical disability conquer me anymore than I will let my adult physical challenges of being a diabetic, kidney transplant recipient, and right foot below the knee amputee, vanquish me or my priestly ministry.  Despite the ambivalence and skepticism of Sacramento Church leadership. I will continue to Push Forward in fulfilling my unconditional commitment to the Priesthood of Jesus Christ and to further educate and form myself  through the Doctor of Ministry  degree program at the Catholic University of America online and in Washington, D.C.  This is the same resolve and effort I encounter in the participants and providers of the Handicapables Ministry.  They are brave and courageous not just once a month, at Christmas, Easter, on their birthdays or anniversaries, but Everyday and they deserve to be afforded every opportunity to be included in the life of the Catholic-Christian Community of Believers.  I eagerly look forward to ministering to and with them each month in the various parishes in Sacramento the Handicapables are invited to visit for Sunday Mass and Lunch.  All our parishes need to reach out to, welcome, and incorporate, Persons with Disabilities and Special Needs.  Not to do, is discriminatory and alienating. Christmas and the dawning of the New Year is a fine time to help evaluate your parish community's commitment to Catholic Disability Ministry.  You might consider inviting the Handicapables to Mass and Lunch some month soon with your parishioners..............Father Troy David  

Saturday, December 27, 2014

THE 4TH DAY OF CHRISTMAS 2014-2015 IS THE FEAST OF THE HOLY FAMILY OF JESUS MARY + JOSEPH..............

Today's 4th Day of Christmas is the Feast of the Holy Family.  The Holy Family of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph, of Nazareth who are the central persons in the Nativity of the Lord that is Christmas.  They exemplify the values of Love and Fidelity to the core experiences of vital, close, interpersonal, relationships as mothers, fathers, and children, despite the challenges we face in living them out.  The unconditional commitment and constancy of the Holy Family stands in stark contrast to the dysfunction that besets so many human families in our time. Ab lack of commitment to marriage, to the concerted and properly balanced upbringing of children rightly formed and nurtured, rather than used as pawns of divisive and divorced parents, communicating openly and honestly not in self interest only, but on behalf of the mutual well being; these are some of the attributes all our families would do well to emulate.  Jesus, Mary,  and Joseph,  show us the way to become holy families of Faith, Hope, and Love.  Like them our families also require a truly moral dimension,  An experience of Belief in God and the practices of prayer, spirituality, worship. and ministry, that brings a higher power and greater purpose to our lives in maintaining and honoring our Family relationships.  How you and your loved build a solid, loving, committed, Family determines whether you are the holy family God invites you to be, or a dysfunctional family that betrays the meaning and example of Christmas and the Holy Family of Nazareth.  Jesus, Mary, and Joseph, Pray For Us, that All Families Become Holy Families..............Fr. Troy David

Friday, December 26, 2014

CHRISTMAS BREAK AWAY FROM SENIOR-ITIS FOR THE SAKE OF MY SPIRITUALITY AND SOCIALIZATION..............

A part of my Christmas Joy is the opportunity to break away from the senior-itis of my surroundings for the past 33.5 months and to be in the freedom of a more natural environment for a 58 year old priest who although physically disabled is neither retired or an incompetent invalid.  For the sake of my spirituality and socialization I will spend much of Christmas elsewhere heeding the advice of personal and professional friends to not give up or give in to the unfairness and injustice of my current circumstances.  To refresh and renew my spirit and socialize in settings that are not geriatrically driven.  I will spend much of the time praying, reading, writing, in the enjoyment of a location where I am not being marginalized because of my amputation.  Ab very Happy and Wholistic Christmas be yours also..............fr.tdp

CHRISTMAS DAY DINNER WITH THE GEACHES...FAMILY, FAITH, FELLOWSHIP, IN FIDELITY TO THE SAVIOR'S NATIVITY..............

I am blessed for the second consecutive year to be invited to join Karin and Roger Geach and their Family for Christmas Dinner in Elk Grove.  To their clan of 23 members - mother, father, two daughters, two sons, four spouses, thirteen grandchildren, they graciously add me to their wonderful Family Christmas feast of festive food and drink in their delightful home.  After more than thirty five years of friendship being and sharing with them is always a joyful experience.  I am grateful to them for including me now for the opportunity on Christmas Day to come out of the shadows and the sidelines of my current residence.  A Blessed Christmas to all your Families and Readers of my blog, "Insights Into Life And Faith"..............Father Troy David Powers

Wednesday, December 24, 2014

GLORY TO GOD IN THE HIGHEST...THE BIRTH OF JESUS THE CHRIST REDEEMS THE WORLD, HALLELUJAH !!!!!!!!!!!!,,,,,,,,,,,,,,

In the darkness of this Christmas Eve night as the Midnight hour fast approaches, Believers in the Holy Birth  more than 2,000 years of a child in a manger Who is the Son of God and the Savior of the World, rejoice in the Redemption He revealed for sinners in becoming The Word of God our Father Made Flesh. With the host of Angels who gloriously acclaimed the Nativity of the baby Jesus on that Bethlehem night, to the billions of Disciples who have followed Him as Lord and the God of our Salvation for more than two millenniums, the Christmas Event is the overture to Eternal Life in God's immemorial Kingdom.  With hearts and minds fortified by Faith in the Divine Plan for Creation, Hallelujah and Glory to God in the Highest is our song of praise and jubilation in the One Who is, was, and will be, Forever Son of God, Prince of Peace, and Savior of Humankind.  Take time anew tonight, tomorrow, and during the coming 18 days, to affirm your Faith and Fidelity in the Holy Birth of Jesus The Christ Whose Life, Death, and Resurrection, envelops us into the Eternal Father's Holy Family of Love and Christmas Joy..............fr.tdp

THE VIGIL OF CHRISTMAS AND OUR FAITH FILLED SPIRITUAL AND RELIGIOUS ENTRANCE INTO THE NATIVITY OF THE CHRIST WITH OUR FAMILIES AND FELLOW BELIEVERS..............

Surrounded by the front loaded frenzy of the holiday season, we come to the culmination of the Advent Season the vigil of the Nativity of the  Lord Jesus - Christmas Eve.  A day of immediate readiness for our personal, familial, and societal celebration of our Savior's Birth with meals, merriment, and exchange of gifts, Christmas Eve is like New Year;s Eve, in many ways the most sentimental day and night of the year.  We cherish loved ones near and faraway; remembering those who now share in the Christmas of Eternal Life; and partaking in the tastes, sounds, and activities, that denote the observance of the Christmas Season.  For Catholic-Christians the true observance of Christmas begins and ends with the inclusion of religious and spiritual practices that define the reason for the season of the Redeemer's Holy Birth.  Attendance at Christmas Mass and other Christian Worship Services; Prayers of Praise and Gratitude, in our homes or wherever we are, for the Blessings of Family, Faith, Friendship, and Fellowship; in acknowledgement and appreciation for all the Festival of Christmas represents for us as members of the Body of Jesus Christ and Family of Humankind.  I will spend today writing Christmas cards, organizing simple gifts, enjoying the small living evergreen tree very good friends provided me, listening to Christmas carols, and preparing a homily, before presiding and preaching at a Christmas Eve Vigil Mass with the Friedrich Family and concelebrating Midnight Mass in Sacred Heart Church with Msgr. Walton and Fr. Cletus.  I pray that you and your families will take time within the next day to include Interpersonal Prayer, Public Worship, and Shared Service and Remembrance of others in your celebration of Christmas 2014-2015..............Fr. Troy David

Tuesday, December 23, 2014

POPE FRANCIS STRONGLY ADMONISHES THE ROMAN CURIA FOR THE, "TERRORISM OF GOSSIP AND THE PATHOLOGY OF POWER"..............

In a pre-Christmas Address to members of the Roman Curia in the Vatican, Pope Francis went far beyond merely delivering a holiday feverino to end the Year of Our Lord 2014, reinforcing his papal leadership intention of eradicating the corruption and malfeasance entrenched in much of the central administration of the Catholic Church, in very strong language.  He told the assembled Cardinals, Bishops, Priests, and their co-workers to rectify their practices, seriously admonishing them for what the Supreme Pontiff referred to, as self serving, "Terrorism of Gossip", and the, "Pathology of Power".  The tenor of +Francis' message to Curial officials and the Universal leadership of the Church around the World is that they govern their lives, ministries, and administrative responsibilities according to Gospel values,Christian charity, and social Justice; rather than self serving agendas and personal agrandizement.  Seeking to reform and renew the authenticity of Catholic-Christianity and the Church's true purpose and in the 3rd Millennium, Pope Francis is to be commended for the efficacious effort he continues to exert to call the all of the members the Body of Christ to accountability, service, and leadership, that is unfettered by anything but the common good of God's People and the Salvation of Creation..............fr.tdp

Monday, December 22, 2014

DESPITE WHAT SOME MAY SAY, THINK, OR FEEL, AS A PRIEST OF JESUS CHRIST I AM NOT HALF A MAN OR A TARNISHED COMMODITY JUST BECAUSE I AM AN AMPUTEE..............

The 1978 United States Catholic Bishops Pastoral Statement on Ministry to Persons with Disabilities and Special Needs decreed, "There is No Separate Church for the Disabled".  Thirty six years later that declaration is not as true as it sounds.  Too many of our Catholic churches and other parish and ministry facilities remain inaccessible to those of us with special needs, who require the use of accommodations such as wheelchairs and walkers, to enter and exit church buildings.  The lack of external and internal ramps in any of our churches and subsequent structures, are far overdue and are a given to the, "full. active, and conscious", participation and presence of the  Disabled Catholics in our communities.  Bishops need to step up and show leadership in facilatating the full implementation of Catholic Disability Ministry and the issues of accessibility, inclusion, and empowerment; of those of us with Special Needs without exception or discrimination, and without further delay or indifference,  Pastors, Administrators, Pastoral Councils, Finance Councils, Prinicpals, DREs, School Boards, Liturgy Committees, and Building Commissions, must enlighten and educate themselves to guarantee Disability provisions are made with no excuses to see everything their parish communities do is open and available to the presence and participation of the Disabled.  All Catholic-Christians must grow in sensitivity to those with Needs.  Whether priests - as one of my international priest diocesan colleague has referred to me as, "Half a Man", in response to my physical disability challenges; or diocesan administrators - as for nearly three years I have been treated as if I am a tarnished commodity, "a burden, liability, and hardship", rather than the capable, competent, person and priest I am, retaining human dignity.  As we near 2015 may the mutual and unconditional commitment of all U.S. Catholics to Disability Ministry increase as we fulfill what Jesus and Pope Francis want us to do - Reach out and Include All God's People..............Rev. Fr. Troy David Powers

Sunday, December 21, 2014

REVEREND FATHER OSCAR GOMEZ MEDINA, PASTOR AND ST. CHARLES BORROMEO PARISHIONERS MAGNANIMOUS WELCOME FOR THE HANDICAPABLES MINISTRY DECEMBER MASS AND LUNCHEON YESTERDAY..............

The Handicapables Ministry in Sacramento and yours truly are very grateful to Reverend Father Oscar Gomez-Medina and his parishioners at St. Charles Borromeo Church in South Sacramento, for the warmth of their welcome and spirited hospitality yesterday at their parish.  Father Gomez-Medina was fraternally and pastorally present to me and embracing of  all of us in welcoming and affirming our presence and the parishioners were welcoming and hospitable.  The Mass was beautiful and I much appreciate the opportunity to preach for only the fourth time in the past year, given the opportunity it provided to evangelize the congregation about the greater need for Catholic Disability Ministry in our diocese and throughout the country.  As is customary at the monthly Handicapables Mass, the host parish served us a luncheon following the Sacred Liturgy which included service by the St. Charles School 8th Graders. My heartfelt thanks to Frank Nava, Director of the Handicapables; Permanent Deacon David Cabrera and his wife; Della and all the members of the group; as well as Father Oscar and his parishioners for a truly wonderful pre-Christmas liturgical and fellowship priestly public ministry experience..............fr.tdp

Saturday, December 20, 2014

THE FOURTH AND FINAL WEEK OF ADVENT - EMBRACING THE BLESSED VIRGIN'S EXAMPLE OF FAITHFUL DISCIPLESHIP IN THE LORD JESUS' FIRST COMING..............

Our waiting as God's Advent People for the Lord Jesus' Coming this Christmas is almost complete on this Fourth and final Sunday of this season of hopefulness, joy, and longing, for the Anointed One who comes into the fallen World to be the Savior of Humankind.  Just as John the Baptist was raised up by The Divine to herald the imminent arrival of The Christ into human history, so too was Mary ever Virgin chosen by our Heavenly Father to become the Mother of God and bring forth The Redeemer.  Her unequivocal and universal assent to God's Will and her unflinching devotion in discipleship to the Saving Son of God she bore, nurtured, and followed, is a perfect example for all of us as Catholic-Christian Disciples.  How has this Advent Season formed you to be better ready and willing to proclaim and witness to the Holy Birth of Jesus The Christ Our Lord and Savior during the Christmas Season - December 24th - January 11th ?  Spend these next three days making yourself personally, spiritually, and socially, ready for the Coming of the Christ Child and resolve to make the full and authentic observance of the Nativity your foremost priority in tandem with your families, friends, fellow believers, neighbors, and everyone you encounter during the festive season of Christmas..............Rev. Fr. Troy David Powers

Friday, December 19, 2014

CELEBRATING SUNDAY MASS AND PREACHING TOMORROW WITH AND FOR THE HANDICAPABLES MINISTRY @ ST. CHARLES BORROMEO CHURCH IN SOUTH SACRAMENTO..............

With the Season of Advent in Liturgical Year B 2015 coming to its crescendo as we prepare for the Festival of Christmas in coming days, I am pleased to share with you that thanks to the invitation of the Handicapables Ministry in Sacramento and the kind and considerate welcome of Reverend Father Oscar Gomez-Medina, Pastor; I will be concelebrating and preaching at 4th Sunday of Advent Mass tomorrow.  The members of the Handicapbles Ministry will join the parishioners of St. Charles Borromeo Church at the 10:30 am Mass in the parish church at 7584 Center Parkway in South Sacramento,.............fr.tdp

GLADLY DOING WHAT A PRIEST DOES - HELPING WITH ADVENT/CHRISTMAS CONFESSIONS @ DIVINE SAVIOR ORANGEVALE AND SACRED HEART EAST SACRAMENTO..............

Tuesday, July 8, 2014

IT IS TIME TO EVALUATE MY THREE DISABILITY MINISTRY NEW EVANGELIZATION PROJECT BLOG COLUMNS..............

My Faithful Blog Readers / Followers,

I must ask a favor of you.  As I proceed into the Final Exams for Year One Cohort of Classes for the Doctor of Ministry degree program at the Catholic University of America, I need your assistance.  In my New Evangelization class my final exam Project on Disability Ministry revolves around the three special blog columns I posted on Thursdays June 19th, June 26th, and July 3rd, I posted.  They need to be responded to with your comments, as a means of evaluating how effective I was in making the case for  the Greater Necessity for Ministry to Disabled Persons and those with Special Needs, in the U.S. Catholic Church.

Your comments should address the areas of :

Was I clear in communicating the need for unconditional Disability Ministry in Catholic parishes and dioceses in the United States ?

How convincingly did I make my points as a resource of Evangelization - welcoming and sharing the Good News of Jesus Christ and the Gospel Values the Catholic-Christian Church believes and teaches ?

What else do you feel I need to address in completing this project to strengthen the awareness of, and advocacy for, wholistic Disability Ministry in the Catholic Church ?

If you please, grade my effectiveness in communicating the Greater Necessity for Ministry to Persons with Disabilities and Special Needs. A- Excellent  B-  Very Good  C-  Average/Fair  D- Unsatisfactory  F- Poor

Thank you for taking the time to evaluate my work.  Please send your comments no later than Saturday July 12th, at 12 noon Pacific Time.  ..............Fr.  Troy David Powers

Monday, July 7, 2014

AN IRISH TENOR TRIBUTE CONCERT HONORING MONSIGNOR KAVANAGH..............

Sacramento's Joseph Patrick McNamara celebrates his Birthday today as does his mother, Sally.  A very, very, Happy Birthday to you both.  As always, Joe devoted as he and his family are to their Irish American heritage and the authentic actualizing of it, is presently promoting a fine musical concert on July 24th and 25th.  The renowned founding member of the "Irish Tenors", Anthony Kearns, will be presented by the LaSalle Club of Christian Brothers High School in the George Cunningham '40 Performing Arts Center on the campus.  The Thursday night July 24th show is a tribute to the iconic senior Honorary Prelate of the Sacramento Diocese, Monsignor Edward J. Kavanagh. Tickets are $35 for the Mezzanine and $50 for Orchestra seats.  The  Show will also feature the McKeever School of Irish Dance.   Tickets can be purchased online @ www.lasalleclub.com / Looking forward to seeing you there..............Fr.  Troy

Sunday, July 6, 2014

14th SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME AND OUR RELATIONSHIP IN CHRIST WITH GOD AS ABBA FATHER..............

The forecast in Sacramento is for a hot and sunny triple digits day on this 14th Sunday in Ordinary Time and 4th of July holiday weekend.  The Gospel Proclamation Matthew 11:25-30, speaks  to us of the attitude of gratitude Jesus has for His Heavenly Father for revealing to the meek and humble key insights into the mysteries of God's Kingdom to Come and for the relationship  of pure Love He shares with God the Father.  Jesus is also reassuring to those who believe in and follow Him as fervent Disciples, that we need  not fear in times of trial and tribulation but to turn to Him.  Our Faith and Fidelity in the Good News of Redemption for Humankind in the Risen and Ascended, Lord Jesus, and in the Second Coming Christ at the end of time, has the power to lighten our burdens and sustain us.  May the abundant  Blessings of God's Love transform you and me to become evermore Faithful Witnesses to others of the relationship we are graced  to Share with God the Father and the Son, through the Unity and Love of their consummate bond - the Holy Spirit..............Father Troy  David

Saturday, July 5, 2014

REMEMBERING "92" AND MEMORIES SO VIVIDLY TRUE..............

Ninety two years ago today, July 5, 1922, my mother Josephine Virginia was born at home in Sacramento California.  She went home to God and Eternal Life on December 2, 1982.  In her 60 years 4 months and 27 days of life on earth she was generously and religiously loving. faithful, and true, to her family, friends, neighbors, fellow believers, and to strangers, with an abundance of daily kindnesses and remembrances, that form a treasury of memories that flow deep even now, nearly thirty two years after her death.  Two of the most vivid treasures my mother shared and instilled in me were a profound love for God and our Catholic-Christian Faith; and the strength to stand up and be counted about what I strongly believe in, just as she did throughout her life.  In fairness and justice my mother spoke up when she or others she knew and cared about were victims of wrongdoing.  Were she alive now as my priestly ministry is being marginalized she would be true to her convictions and be unequivocally advocating for my return to full time parish ministry, as she was always wholeheartedly supportive of my discernment and decision to become a priest, even though she died in the first year I was a seminarian.  And so those who think I am too strong willed in my resolve to resume carrying out my vocation as an ordained  Catholic priest who is physically disabled but still very able to minister as a presider, preacher, and servant-leader, of God, know that my perseverance in doing that has been inculcated into me by the fidelity and fervency of my beloved Mother -  Josephine Virginia Corey Feusi Powers.  God Love You Forever.  I Do..............Troy David

Friday, July 4, 2014

THE RED, WHITE, & BLUE, USA OF INDEPENDENCE DAY "238"..............

Two hundred and thirty years ago today, July 4th, 1776, our founding forefathers, who were colonists of Great Britain in the New Land of America, signed a document  authored by Thomas Jefferson that became our Declaration of Independence.  Their spirit of patriotism was self evident in the liberty and freedom of becoming citizens of a sovereign nation nome of the national traditions associated with the 4th of Julyo longer governed by the British, but uniquely, independently, American.  As you share with your family, friends, and neighbors, some of the national traditions of the 4th of July : parades, barbecues, concerts, and fireworks, may you be blessed with the freedom  of, "life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness", this day represents and assures us as citizens of the USA.  Though my freedom to fully celebrate Independence Day is limited for the third consecutive year by being made to subsist in a sea of seniors decades older than me, I will at least have some corn on the cob and watermelon, to mark the day.  God Bless America, the "land of the free and the home of the brave".  May your personal liberties and our national freedoms, bring you the joy you seek and deserve and that our country's bold proclamation 238 years ago, gives each of us the opportunity to ascertain.  Happy 4th of July !!!!!!!!!!!!!!..............Fr.  Troy David

Thursday, July 3, 2014

EVANGELIZING ABOUT THE NECESSITY FOR UNCONDITIONAL DISABILITY MINISTRY IN THE U.S. CATHOLIC CHURCH PART THREE..............

Here is the is the third of three Thursday blog columns (June 19th, 26th, and today July 3rd,) on addressing the necessity for a greater implementation of Ministry to Persons with Disabilities and Special Needs in the Catholic Church throughout the United States.  Having in the first two blog columns spoken about the 1978 U.S. Bishops' Pastoral Statement and the National Catholic Partnership for Disability (NCPD) that emerged out of that Statement - Today I will focus on my personal experiences in and with the Disability Community and how the New Evangelization and U.S. Bishops National Plan and Strategy for Catholic Evangelization, "Go And Make Disciples", (1992 to the present) are reflected in my proposal that there is a much greater need for American Catholics and our Church to develop and embrace a wholistic commitment to carrying out Disability Ministry.  These three blog columns are part of my final examination project in the Doctor of Ministry program at the Catholic University of America and the class on the New Evangelization. with Dr. Richard DeLillio.  Please respond to them as an evaluative component of  my project.  Thank you.

Catholic Evangelization, the sharing of the Good News of Jesus as the Christ of Salvation is rooted in reaching out to all peoples.  Following the Second Vatican Council 1962-1965, and the Synod of Bishops gathering on Evangelization in 1974, Pope Paul VI issued an encylcial (papal teaching document, "Evangelization In The Modern World" (1975) , in which he enunciated that the Catholic Church must not be, "defensive or rigid", but "better equipped to carry out Christ's mission of bringing the Good News", a message that we are 'saved and healed' to everyone.  For over more than 40 years the Catholic Church has reiterated this message in placing a greater awareness and practice of a renewed love of reading, studying, and praying, with the Sacred Scriptures; that places a much greater focus on our relationship with Jesus as His disciples who are intentionally seeking to love and follow Him and invite others to do so also; with an attentiveness and heightened focus on the presence of the Holy Spirit in our lives; and through sacramental renewal and our mutual faith journeys in dynamically witnessing to our Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist, as disciples and evangelists who inspire and encourage others to join the Catholic-Christian Church.

The foremost attribute of Catholic Evangelization is that it must be Welcoming to those seeking to enter and be present and participating members of the Community of Believers.  Extending an openness and warmth to visitors, inquirers, and newcomers, as well as parishioners that  is selfless and sincere in reaching out and  inviting them into spiritual and social interaction.  The three central Goals  of the U.S. Bishops' "Go And  Make Disciples", (GMD) underscores the pivotal need for evangelizing and being re-evangelized, in an all inclusive way.  Their 1st Goal is to - "Bring about in all Catholics such  an enthusiasm for their faith that in living their faith in Jesus, they freely share it with others."   The 2nd Goal of GMD, IS - "To invite all people in the United States whatever their social or cultural background, to hear the message of salvation in Jesus Christ so that they may come to  join us in the fullness of the Catholic faith".  And the U.S. Bishops 3rd Goal is - "To foster gospel values within our society, promoting the dignity of the human person, the importance of the family, and the common good of our society, so that our nation may continue to be transformed by the saving power of Jesus Christ."  All 3 Goals  shape and define our call to action as American Catholics.  For purposes of applying their intent into the focus on greater Catholic Disability Ministry I will concentrate on Goal 3

"Promoting the dignity of the human person", as stated in Goal 3 of GMD, is a core teaching of the Respect For Life the Catholic Church believes in and teaches.  Therefore, in order to affirm the God given right to every person to, "live, dwell, and have our being", requires an openness and acceptance of all people regardless of their state or condition, as equal co-heirs to God's Kingdom and thus to "full, active, and conscious",  participation in the sacramental, liturgical, spiritual, catechetical, and social, life of the Catholic Church founded by Jesus Christ.  This pertains as much to Persons with Disabilities and Special Needs, as it does to everyone else.  Inaccessibility, the lack of Inclusion, and the failure to  Empower, the Disabled by the Church is a violation of their dignity and human rights along with discrimination and the disqualification of our baptismal right to the priestly, prophetic, and kingly, Mission and Ministry of our Lord and Savior Jesus The Christ.  How can we authenticate the, "importance of family", and the common good of our society", while we exclude or obstruct the presence and participation of the 14 million Catholics in the United States with Special Needs.  We will not be truly transformed or transformative in the, "saving power of Jesus Christ until the disabled have an equal place of membership and ministry in the Catholic Church.

I myself have experienced it both ways.  From childhood up to recent years as an inviting, welcoming, full opportunity, experience of Church as a lay minister for eighteen years and an ordained deacon and priest since 1987.  My physical disability did not preclude my ability or opportunity to minister to God's People.  That acceptance, affirmation, and support, have not continued the past few years, as now as a right leg below the knee amputee I have been sidelined in my mid 50's into a senior citizens residence and  left without assigned priestly ministry for the last two years and two months. My story of being treated as if I am disqualified instead of the truth being I am disabled but still able of fulfilling my priestly duties of presiding at Mass, preaching, administering Sacraments, catechizing, and evangelizing, is just one example of the inconsistent, incomplete, and inappropriate, response to Persons with Disabilities and Special Needs the Catholic Church in the United States must forthrightly eradicate parishes, dioceses, and ministries.  The Bishops 1978 Pastoral Statement, the ongoing efforts of the NCPD since 1982, the USCCB;S Strategic Plan and their 3 Goals for Evangelization, are a sure sign of hope in eradicating the indifference and insensitivity, that unfortunately still exists. The authentic practice throughout our national Church of compassion and mercy for all persons, particularly those of us in the disability community who are 20% of the Catholics in the United States is urgently overdue without exception now and presently pushing forward.  For how else will we be a caring, loving, interdependent, and wholistic,Body of Christ and Catholic Community now and ever more, as long  as  we fail to welcome and affirmatively include all our members and visitors in the prayer, worship, and ministry, of being Church ?..............

Thank you for reading and reflecting on today's and the previous two Thursday blog columns on Disability Ministry.  Now, please respond by posting your comments, reactions, or questions right here on the blog.  Peace + Prayers as we proceed to Push Forward in the Inclusion  and Empowerment of  those of with Special Needs in the U.S. Catholic Church..............Rev. Fr. Troy David Powers



Wednesday, July 2, 2014

THE 1964 CIVIL RIGHTS LAW WAS SIGNED INTO LAW 50 YEARS AGO TODAY..............

A half a century has past when on this date in 1964, President Lyndon Baines Johnson signed into law the enactment of the Civil Rights Act, the most comprehensive effort to address the equality of ll Americans and elimination of prejudice, discrimination, and segregation, due to racial differences.  It came 187 years after our Declaration of Independence and the founding of the United States of America.  A coalition of other than Southern Democrats and large numbers of Republicans in the House of Representatives and U.S. Senate passed the landmark legislation that a century after the Civil War began to accelerate our national commitment to fully casting off the ravages of slavery and permitting unconditional freedom and equal opportunity under the mandate of Federal Law to every American citizen. How far forward in making progress fifty years later do you think we have come as the, "land of the free...with liberty and justice for all ?" May our reflection on that reality being realized continue to bear fruit as we prepare to commemorate the 238th anniversary of the 4th of July that set the American experience of Freedom for all our peoples in motion..............fr.tdp

Tuesday, July 1, 2014

HAVE YOU COMMENTED ON MY JUNE 26TH DISABILITY MINISTRY BLOG COLUMN ? PLEASE DO SO..............

Blog column 2, of my Doctor of Ministry student at the Catholic University of America New Evangelization class project on the Greater Necessity for Ministry to Persons with Disabilities and Special Needs was posted on Thursday June 26th. Have you taken the time to read it yet ?  Will you kindly do so, and then respond by writing a comment on my blog.  The third and final of the three special blog columns will be posted this Thursday July 3rd.  Spread the word and say yes to sharing in my project as I begin to zero in on my focus for the degree I am seeking in order to further my priestly ministry to others in the Disability Community, 14 million who are members of the Catholic Church in the United States..............Fr. Troy David

Monday, June 30, 2014

A BUSY DAY AT THE SUPREME COURT AND THE WHITE HOUSE..............

The Supreme Court of the United States (SCOTUS) and the President of the United States (POTUS) had a momentous day on this 30th of June, as they announced significant decisions.  The nine Justices of the Supreme rendered their judgment on the final two cases they undertook for the 2013-2014 Session of the Nation's highest Court of Law.  In two contentious, politically philosophical, conservatives versus liberals 5-4 split Decisions, with the 5 Republican appointed Justices prevailing over the 4 Democratic appointed Justices determined that small family owned businesses with religious convictions opposed to Contraception may choose to opt out of paying for birth control for their employees, as mandated by the Affordable Care Act national health care program frequently referred to as Obamacare.  In the other Decision the Justices Roberts, Scalia, Kennedy, Thomas, AcDlito, again lined up in the majority; with Justices Bader-Ginsburg, Breyer, SotoMayor, and Kagen, dissenting, decided that some public employee union workers are not required to pay certain union dues involuntarily.  At the White House President Obama announced his choice as the new Secretary of Veterans Affairs to join his Cabinet.  Bob McDonald, the former CEO of Proctor & Gamble, a who served as a younger man as a U,S. Army Captain is the nominee.  When confirmed he will take charge of addressing and reforming the Veterans Affairs hospitals scandal.  As summer unfolds so will the reactions and redirection brought about by the decisions  made today by both the POTUS and the SCOTUS..............fr.tdp

Sunday, June 29, 2014

THE SUNDAY SOLEMNITY OF SAINTS PETER AND PAUL..............

Having presided and preached at the 9:30am Mass at Sacred Heart this morning, the focus of my Homily on this Solemnity of Sts. Peter and Paul, was to underscore their effectiveness as Apostles after they embraced Jesus The Christ fearlessly and faithfully.  Despite Peter's denials of knowing and following Jesus before the Paschal Mystery was fulfilled, Jesus proclaims him to be the Rock and primatial Leader of the Church accepting Peter's confession of Faith in Jesus as the Christ of Salvation.  Paul's assiduous scholarly and learned fidelity to Judaism made him a persecutor of the first Christians, until his extraordinary conversion made him one of the most extensive missionaries to the Gentiles in all of  Christian History.  We too, in the Third Millennium of Catholic-Christianity are baptized and believing Disciples of the Lord Jesus, are called and commissioned to be Fearless, Faith-filled, Evangelists and Missionaries of Jesus The Christ.  Embracing the spirit of Sts. Peter and Paul, who will you be a bearer of the Good News  to today and in the days ahead ?  How will you choose to share the Mission of Redemption with them ?  It is a responsibility you and me and every Christian has been chosen to bring to fulfillment..............Father Troy David

Saturday, June 28, 2014

PERMANENT DIACONATE ORDINATION DAY IN SACRAMENTO..............

Twenty new Permanent Deacons will be ordained for ministry in the Sacramento Diocese today in the Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament at 11am.  Three of the Deacons and their wives and families are former parishioners of mine in Yreka, Citrus Heights, and the Arden Arcade area of Sacramento.  They are Timothy Louie, Mark Hronicek, and Paul Friedrich.  I look forward to concelebrating their  Diaconate Ordination Mass as they are welcomed into the Order of Deacons..............fr.tdp










Friday, June 27, 2014

THE SOLEMNITY OF THE SACRED HEART OF JESUS..............

One of the universal devotions of Catholic-Christians is veneration of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, sign of the Love of Jesus The Christ for Humankind.  God is Love and the Heart of Jesus is the vessel of Divine Love that we as Christian Disciples can identify with and relate to as human beings who feel, share, and experience, the power of love in our lives.  As we commemorate today the Solemnity of the Sacred Heart, may the enthronement of God's Love take center place in our lives, not  only today but everyday in increasing ways.  My thoughts and prayers today are particularly with the People of God in Sacred Heart Parish here in East Sacramento.  I am truly blessed  with their solidarity and support for my priestly ministry, during the twenty seven months I have been involuntarily exiled without a ministry assignment or parish placement.  May the kindness and acceptance you have shown me be blessed by the Love of Jesus' Sacred Heart and serve as an enlightenment to others who make my right leg below the knee amputation a pre-emption of my priesthood rather than choosing to empower my continuing in assigned, full time, active ministry of God's People here in my native diocese.  "O Sacred Heart, my hope lies deep in You"..............fr.tdp

Thursday, June 26, 2014

EVANGELIZING THE CATHOLIC CHURCH IN THE UNITED STATES ABOUT THE GREATER NEED FOR DISABILITY MINISTRY - PART TWO..............

Today I continue my blogging about Evangelizing the Catholic Church in the United States regarding increasing the necessity of Ministry to Persons with Disabilities and Special Needs, in the second of three consecutive Thursday columns.  On  June 19th I blogged about the U.S. Bishops 1978 Pastoral Statement.  Next Thursday, July 3rd my focus will be some of ways dioceses and parishes in the USA are providing Disability Ministry.  Today I am blogging about the National Catholic Partnership for Disability - NCPD, the developing and coordinating ministry that emerged in 1982 from the U.S. Bishops Pastoral Statement on Ministry to Persons with Disabilities and Special Needs.

For the past thirty two years, building on the foundation of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (U.S.C.C.B.) 1978 Pastoral Statement on Ministry to Persons with Disabilities, the  organization that emerged from the vision shared in the Bishops' Statement, the National Catholic Partnership for Disability (NCPD) has coordinated and developed training and leadership in ministering to the 14 million American Catholics who are disabled - "physically, intellectually, sensory, mentally, or emotionally".  The NCPD provides training, resources, and networking, to dioceses and  parishes throughout the country working with diocesan disability ministry directors and an array of other ministry partners to, "promote and defend the culture of life, upholding the dignity of every human person." The NCPD  achieves this by sharing with dioceses and parishes in the USA, "the best practices and resources being developed and utilized," to bring necessary and vital Disability Ministry into more effective existence in the Catholic Church.

The NCPD is trailblazing in Disability Ministry in the U.S. Catholic Church by means of the, "Catechesis, Ministry Specific resources, various Ministry Models, Spirituality, and Building Awareness," the National  Catholic Partnership for Disability provides for the U.S. Catholic Church. As my three Disability Ministry blog column series is an Evangelization project, I will concentrate primarily on the 'Building Awareness' aspect of their efforts.  In building awareness and sensitivity in ministering to Persons with Disabilities and Special Needs, the NCPD proclaims that, "attitudes are one of the biggest challenges faced by people with disabilities."  These attitudes are manifested in the 'Power of Language', in the 'Stigma', in 'What's in a Word and Words', in Dignity', and in 'Love'.

The language we use  in speaking about and doing ministry to and with the disabled, the NCPD advises us has an affect on our listeners.  We must avoid stigmatizing disabled persons by our use of prejudicial, insensitive, or outdated, words about persons with special needs. Take care to use Person First Language in discussing persons with disabilities, referring to them for example first by name - Troy, and then if necessary, - my friend with a below the knee amputee; rather than saying, - my amputated friend, with or without referring to me by name.  Avoid victimizing disabled persons by the use of words such as being, "afflicted" or, "suffering from whatever physical, intellectual, sensory, emotional, or mental, condition they are contending with.  Speaking of the disabled as being afflicted or suffering makes it seem their entire lives are dominated and determined solely by their disability, when  in truth  their special need does not always adversely affect and interfere with their daily lives.  Making fun of, or the name calling of disabled persons  is inappropriate at all times and must never be used or tolerated; including jokes and stories that only stigmatize and mischaracterize the disability and denigrate the human dignity of special needs persons.  Telling persons with disabilities they are, "a burden" to others, or that they will have to prove they are not, 'disqualified' from ministry, presence, or participation, in the Catholic Church, is grossly unjust.  The NCPD has much to teach us about this, including in the Parish Resource Guide they published in 2003, "Opening Doors of Welcome and Justice to Parishioners".

The National Catholic Partnership for Disability continues to promote and expand the horizons of Disability Ministry in the U.S. Catholic Church and I am pleased as a life long physically disabled person and a twenty seven year Catholic priest of the Sacramento Diocese, to be teamed with them in bringing about greater enlightenment about, and empowerment for, the 14 million  of us who are Catholics and have Special Needs in the United States.  It was privilege to attend their Partnership '13 Convention October 31- November 2, 2013 in Houston Texas.  I am further blessed to have made my initial visit to the NCPD headquarters on June 13, 2014 in Washington, D.C.  I eagerly look forward to partnering with them over the next several years as I study, research, and then write a doctoral thesis on the Greater Need for Ministry to Persons with Disabilities and Special Needs in the Catholic Church in the USA.  "Faith, Giftedness, Partnership".  These are the themes, the mission, and the accessible, inclusive, and empowering, Catholic ministry the NCPD, which I have evangelized you about today, strives ever more fervently to assure the Catholic-Christian right and opportunity of Catholics requiring Disability Ministry in the United States.Please reflect on what I have written and respond with your comments right here on my blog, or on Facebook.  Thank you for your assistance with my D.Min Evangelization project. .............Father Troy David Powers






Wednesday, June 25, 2014

HAVE YOU COMMENTED ON MY JULY 19TH DISABILITY MINISTRY BLOG COLUMN ?..............

Tomorrow, Thursday June 26th, I will present the second of three Thursday blog columns on the greater need for wholistic Disability Ministry in the Catholic Church of the United States.  I invite you to read it and respond with your reflections as this is a part of my final exam project in the New Evangelization class at the Catholic University of America and  my studies for a Doctor of Ministry degree.  I also continue to welcome your comments on my July 19th blog column on the unconditional imperative for Catholic Ministry to Persons with Disabilities  and Special Needs. Thank you for taking part in this project with me as I strive to advocate for and advance the right of the 14 million Catholics in the United States who are disabled to be welcomed to being present and participating with the Catholic Church with full accessibility, inclusiveness and empowerment..............Fr.  Troy

Tuesday, June 24, 2014

FEARLESSLY BEING PROPHETIC ABOUT JESUS THE CHRIST..............

John the Baptist who testified to Jesus in the womb of the Blessed Virgin Mary in the Visitation she made to her also pregnant cousin Elizabeth, was himself a special child from the moment of his conception.  To be born in six months following the Visitation as the only son of a very elderly and barren couple, when John leapt in his mother's womb when Mary and Elizabeth greeted  each other, he was acknowledging the special, prophetic, mission of his cousin.  John as a  contemporary of Jesus grew in wisdom and holiness and when the appointed time came thirty years later, he was chosen by God the Father and imbued by the Holy Spirit with the privilege to become the last of the Prophets raised up to proclaim the Coming of the Messiah of God's Chosen People.  John heralded the imminent arrival of the Christ by boldly preaching Repentance and Baptizing sinners with water.  When Jesus presented Himself for baptism by John, he reluctantly consented because he believed Jesus to be the long awaited Messiah, and acclaimed Him to  be the perfect Lamb of God and forgiver of sins.  John the Baptist was God's Prophet in proclaiming the Christ. He did so without fear of the martyrdom he would suffer as a result.  We too, as Followers of Jesus The Christ as our Messiah and the Redeemer of Humankind are meant to be prophetic voices in furthering the Mission of  reconciling sinners and building up the coming of God's Kingdom.  How are you and I being prophets of the Lord Jesus in the present moment.  Pray and ponder that you will hear and answer the invitation to become an unconditional prophetic voice for Jesus as we follow Him daily..............fr.tdp

Monday, June 23, 2014

ORDINARY TIME, ORDINARY PEOPLE..............

Having returned to what is liturgically designated by Catholic-Christians as Ordinary Time for the next five months, with the high seasons of Advent, Christmas, Lent, and Easter, complete for the Year of Our Lord 2014 - we spend the majority of the Liturgical Year living out the everyday events of life having  been graced by the pinnacle experiences of the Lord Jesus and God's Chosen People in Salvation History, we put flesh on the bones of our own Faith  experiences by taking our beliefs and practices as  Followers of Jesus The Christ into all aspects of our individual and interpersonal relationships at home, work, school, social activities, as well as in and with the Community of Believers.  We fulfill the significance and meaning of Ordinary Time by fervently reflecting the Gospel Values we profess, throughout all 52 weeks of the year in fidelity to our Discipleship.  How are you witnessing as Ordinary People of God as we return to the rest of Ordinary Time for this year ?..............fr.tdp

Sunday, June 22, 2014

THE EUCHARIST MAKES US THE BREAD OF LIFE FOR OTHERS..............

Christians have celebrated the Holy Eucharist on Sunday from the occurrence of the Resurrection of Jesus more than two thousand years ago to this present moment. Many Catholics celebrate the Eucharist daily as an even more profound share in the Paschal Mystery of Jesus' Passion, Death, and Resurrection.  Our Catholic-Christian belief in the Real Presence of Jesus in the Eucharist Vatican Two proclaimed as the, "source and summit" of our Faith.  Today we celebrate the Solemnity of the Body and Blood of Christ - Corpus Christi.  It  is a Eucharistic liturgical feast that crowns and highlights the weekly and daily celebrations of the Mass.  It is one more  opportunity to affirm our Living Faith in the Body and Blood of our Lord and Savior as the Bread  of Life and Cup of Salvation that feeds us spiritually and sacramentally, and allows us to become the Bread of Life for others - especially the poor, the ill, infirm, disabled, elderly, marginalized, or alienated. Who will you be the Body and Blood of Christ for today and this week, as you feed others with the Real Presence you have received in the Eucharist ?..............Father Troy David

Saturday, June 21, 2014

LIVING FAITH IN THE SPIRIT, THE TRINITY, AND THE EUCHARIST..............

As we settle back into the long term of  Ordinary Time for 2014, the Gifts and Fruits of the Holy Spirit, the  central Mystery of the Holy Trinity of God, and the source and summit of our Catholic-Christian Faith - the Sacrament of the Eucharist, stand before us as driving forces of the Discipleship we profess and follow everyday, be they ordinary or solemn days of Living our Faith in Jesus The Christ.  How are you going to be a fervent reflector of Pentecost, the Triune God, and the Body and Blood of Christ , in your daily, ordinary, lives moving forward through the months of Ordinary Time liturgically just ahead ?  A commitment to praying, worshipping, and ministering in and with your local Community of Believers is the ideal way to Faithfully Witness to being wholehearted Catholic-Christians in season and out of season..............fr.tdp

Friday, June 20, 2014

HOW WELL DID I BEGIN EVANGELIZING ABOUT DISABILITY MINISTRY YESTERDAY ?..............

I will appreciate your taking the time to respond to the blog column I shared here yesterday entitled, "Evangelizing The Catholic Church in the United States About The Greater Need For Disability Ministry".   It was the first of a three blog column series on Thursday through July 3rd, that form a part of my final examination project for the New Evangelization class for the Doctor of Ministry degree program I am enrolled in with the Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C. Your responses to three these columns are an imperative component of my completion of the class project.  Thank you caring enough about the topic and the study I am doing to share your  comments about it.  In the spirit of  welcoming Accessibility, Inclusion, Empowerment, for Ministry to and with Persons with Disabilities and Special Needs in the Catholic Church of the United States..............Rev. Fr. Troy David Powers

Thursday, June 19, 2014

EVANGELIZING THE CATHOLIC CHURCH IN THE UNITED STATES ABOUT THE GREATER NEED FOR DISABILITY MINISTRY PART ONE..............

The following is the first of three columns on the next three consecutive Thursdays (June 19th, 26th July 3rd). I will be blogging in these columns on the need for a more comprehensive implementation of Ministry to Persons with Disabilities and Special Needs, by the Catholic Church in parishes and dioceses of the United States.  Please read, reflect, and respond to them, by posting your comments on my blog by Monday July 7th.  Thank you.  This is a project for my final exam in the New Evangelization class at the Catholic University of America, that is part of the Doctor of Ministry degree program I am studying for currently..............Father Troy David Powers

The Catholic Church believes in and teaches the sanctity of all human life from the moment of conception to natural death.  Respect for Life is at the heart of the morality we profess and practice as faithful Disciples of Jesus the Christ. The Catholic Moral Life calls us personally and communally to respect and reverence the inherent dignity of the human person.  Therefore, the Church Jesus founded as the Body of Christ in the World must be welcoming and inviting of every person who wants to be present and to participate in the Catholic Church.  That is true in regards to my particular focus for evangelizing you - the greater need for Disability Ministry in the Catholic Church of the United States.

The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (U.S.C.C.B.) were groundbreaking and  prophetic in publishing a 1978 Pastoral Statement on Ministry to Persons with Disabilities.  The U.S. Bishops Pastoral Statement on Disability Ministry predated by a dozen years the Americans with Disabilities Act, (A.D.A.) which became the federal law of the land in 1990.  The 1978 Bishops Statement is morally driven and based on the Gospel Values of Jesus' inclusive and healing Ministry.  Jesus embraced the sick, the diseased, and the disabled.  He reached out to them with welcoming and compassion.

Just as, "concern for people with disabilities was one of the prominent notes of Jesus' earthly ministry" (USCCB Pastoral Statement 1978 paragraph 4) so too must our response and ministry to persons with disabilities and special needs, be selflessly free of indifference, insensitivity, prejudice, and discrimination.  ..."Recognizing that individuals with disabilities have a claim to our respect because they are persons, because they have a share in the one  redemption of Christ, and because they contribute to our society by their activity within it", (Pastoral Statement 1978 paragraph 11) we must do more than, "affirm" their rights, we must "advocate" with and for the disabled, as the requirement of, "every individual and organization in the Church... for "justice"... in meeting their personal and social needs".

The wholeness of the Catholic Church in the United States and throughout the World is achieved individually and collectively only with he acceptance, welcome, presence and participation. of all persons, especially those among us who have disabilities or special needs. Their desire and Christian right to the Church  being  accessible, inclusive, and empowering, of their, "full, active, and conscious", presence and participation is a given priority of both Jesus' Ministry and the Pastoral Statement of the U.S. Bishops.  The summation of the 1978 Statement found in paragraph 33 evangelizes us about this call to action very aptly : "People with disabilities are not looking for pity.  They seek to serve the community and enjoy their full baptismal rights as members of the Church.  Our interactions with them can and should be an affirmation of our faith.  There can be no separate Church for people with disabilities.  We are one flock that serves a single shepherd".

Why then after three dozen years since the U.S. Bishops Pastoral Statement on Ministry to Persons with Disabilities, are we still struggling to get dioceses and parishes to  embrace and implement it ?  Next Thursday June 26th, I will blog about the first and most fervent fruit to be derived from the 1978 Pastoral Statement - The National Catholic Partnership for Disability (NCPD) and the yeoman, cutting edge, work they have been doing since 1982, in bringing Ministry to those with Disabilities and Special Needs ever more into existence in the Catholic Church of the United States..............fr.tdp

Please take time to share with me your response to this blog column by posting a comment.  Thank You.

Wednesday, June 18, 2014

POPE FRANCIS SPEAKS OF THE CHURCH AS OUR MOTHER AND FAMILY..............

Beginning a new catechetical series of talks at his Wednesday General Audience today, Pope Francis spoke of our relationship to the Church to that of a child to their mother and family members.  Our belief in the Church as the Body of Christ and People of God, gives us an intimate and  interpersonal relationship with the Family of Catholic-Christian Faith as followers of the Lord Jesus in intentional and active Discipleship..............fr.tdp

Tuesday, June 17, 2014

PLEASE READ REFLECT ON AND RESPOND TO THIS THURSDAY'S BLOG COLUMN ON DISABILITY MINISTRY..............

My final examination project for the Catholic University class in the New Evangelization is in my focused topic of Disability Ministry in the Catholic Church in the United States.  I will be evangelizing American Catholics about the greater need for accessible, inclusive, empowerment of Persons with Disabilities and Special Needs in our parishes and dioceses, with three introductory overview blog columns.  I will be posting them this Thursday June 19th, next Thursday June 26th, and the following Thursday July 3rd.  I am asking you to read them, reflect on them, and respond to them, by  posting a comment measuring my effectiveness in advocating for Disability Ministry in the Catholic Church.  Thank you for choosing to assist me in this project..............Fr.  Troy David

Monday, June 16, 2014

RETURNING TO FIVE WEEKS MORE WEEKS OF ONLINE D.MIN STUDIES FOR COHORT ONE..............

Back from the two week Summer Residency of the Doctor of Ministry degree program at the Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C., the first year cohort continues online for an additional five weeks.  Between now and July 20th, reading, reflecting, writing, and the completion of papers, projects, including final examinations will come to culmination.  So its back to study and work on the classes of the New Evangelization; Caring Conversations; and Spirituality in the Workplace; proceed and crescendo to completion..............fr.tdp

Sunday, June 15, 2014

AFFIRMING OUR BELIEF IN THE HOLY TRINITY PRESIDING @ THE 9:30 AM SACHEART PARISH MASS TODAY..............

Having returned from Washington D.C. after two weeks there last night, I will be presiding and preaching at the 9:30am Trinity Sunday Mass in the Sacred Heart Parish School Gymnasium this morning.  This will be only the fifth Mass and just the eighth time I have preached publicly. since being thrust into Mercy McMahon Terrace as an unenlightened response to my below the knee right leg amputation.  I am grateful to Msgr. Walton Sacred Heart's Pastor, for the opportunity to celebrate public Sunday Masses during the next few weeks.  With the announcement today that another priest has been appointed full time Parochial Vicar of Sacred Heart Parish effective July 10th, my informal, unofficial, priestly  ministry at SacHeart seems to be  drawing to a close.  I will miss it especially given the continuing ambivalence and indecisiveness of Diocesan Administration to provide me with a rectory placement and parish ministry assignment for the weekly celebration of Mass and Sacraments (as well as Adult Faith Formation) - the basic components of presbyteral ministry of a Catholic Priest.  I renew my invocation of God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, that the affirmation of Faith in the dignity of the human person will supplant the Fear and insensitivity of my being a Disabled Priest of Jesus Christ in my native Diocese of Sacramento..............Fr.  Troy David

Saturday, June 14, 2014

CUA SUMMER RESIDENCY YEAR ONE DONE SACRAMENTO HERE I COME..............

Last night several of the other D.Min students  invited me to go with them to Dupont Circle in Northwest Washington.  We took the Metro from the Brookland Station and then went to the James Hoban Irish Pub for dinner.  James Hoban was a native of Ireland, an architect by profession, and designed The White House.  This morning I take an accessible taxi to Reagan National Airport for the flight home to Sacramento.  Our summer residency is done, but five more weeks of classes remain for Cohort One, through July 20th..............fr.tdp

Friday, June 13, 2014

LAST CLASSES OF D.MIN SUMMER RESIDENCY COHORT ONE @ CUA..............

One last  round of classes were held this morning, then a closing luncheon of Summer Residency Cohort 2014.  The Evangelization and Caring Conversations classes were in McGivney Hall, a video lecture for Spirituality in the Workplace took the place of class, and I spent the hour before lunch in the office of the National Catholic Partnership for Disability (NCPD) meeting with staff member Bob Ullman.  The Closing Luncheon and the Blessing of the 3rd Year Students, who now embark on the final research and writing phase of their theses, was held in the Przbyla Student Center on campus..............fr.tdp

Thursday, June 12, 2014

TWO MORE SEMINARS ABOUT HOW TO PROCEED IN COMPLETING THE D. MIN DEGREE PROCESS..............

Two additional special seminars today on procedures to be followed and library resources available to us in completion of the D.Min degree, thesis, and presentation of our terminal process..............fr.tdp

Wednesday, June 11, 2014

EVANGELIZATION GUEST PRESENTER, CARING CONVERSATIONS CLIENT ROLEPLAY, IGNATIAN SPIRITUALITY DISCERNMENT OF SPIRITS..............

Today our New Evangelization  class had a guest presenter.  Reverend FranK Disiano, CSP, author of two of the books we have read in this course, spoke  to us on his insights and experiences of the New Evangelization and the Catholic Church in the United States need to effectualize it further.  In our Caring Conversations class we observed and responded to more roleplays and I had the role of a counselor for the first time.   Our Ignatian Spirituality class considered the Rules of Discernment from  Ignatius of Loyola,  as written about by Dean Brackley..............fr.tdp

Tuesday, June 10, 2014

THREE CLASSES AND A SOCIAL @ THE HOUSE OF OUR 'EVANGELIZATION' PROFESSOR..............

New Evangelization, Caring Conversations classes with Drs. DeLillio and Rossetti this morning, and Spirituality in the Workplace with Dr. McCormack this afternoon are on today's schedule.  Then at 5pm, those of us in the first year cohort have been invited over to the house of Fr. DeLillio and our classmate, Fr. Michael Newman, who is also an Oblate of St. Francis DeSales, for an evening of refreshments and pasta with  homemade sauce, zestfully prepared by the professor.  I eagerly look forward to what is sounding like a great night of sharing, socializing, and bonding..............fr.tdp

Monday, June 9, 2014

UKRANIAN RITE MORNING IN A BASILICA CHAPEL WITH THE UNIVERSITY DEAN..............

This morning as we begin the second week of our D.Min degree formation experience of Summer Cohort 2014, we will go into the lower level of the Basilica for a 9am for a Morning Prayer celebration of the Ukranian Rite.  It will be led by Reverend Father Mark Morozowich, S.E.O.D., the Dean of the School of Theology and Religious Studies at CUA, who is a Ukranian Rite Catholic Priest, of the Eparchy (similar to a diocese) of Parma, Ohio.  He will hold a one hour question  and answer discussion with us following Morning Prayer..............fr.tdp

Sunday, June 8, 2014

PENTECOST SUNDAY MASS IN THE BASILICA OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION @ CUA IN WASHINGTON D.C. ..............

The Sunday morning Masses at the  National Shrine of the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception at he entrance of CUA, are at 7:30am-9am-10:30am-12noon.  I plan on attending either the 9 o'clock or 10:30am Mass, once I probe a way out of the Theological College, given the  Administrative Offices internal door I have been using is locked over the weekend, in order to access the ramp for my powerchair outside the building.  "Come Holy Spirit, Come ! and fill this Pentecost Sunday "day of rest" and worship, with your Fire, Love, and  Grace.  A Glorious 50th and Final Day of Easter 2014, from Washington, D.C. ..............Father Troy David Powers

Saturday, June 7, 2014

WEEK ONE OF CUA D.MIN SUMMER RESIDENCY IN REVIEW..............

An eventful interpersonal. spiritual. social. academic, and liturgical, first week it has been of the summer residency in the Doctor of Ministry course at the Catholic University of America in the District of Columbia it has been.  It has rolled out gradually allowing us as students to really get to know each other, not just as first year cohort members, but with the second and third year cohort students as well.  The D.Min students as a whole group, are friendly, caring,  interactive, and sharing persons.  I admire and appreciate their natural desire to make this experience as accessible and inclusive for me given my disability as they can be.  I will blog more about the affirmative and welcome experience it is making our time together here these two  weeks, as it proceeds..............fr.tdp

Friday, June 6, 2014

SUMMER COHORT DAY 5 - HISPANIC MINISTRY PART 2 AND A NEW EVANGELIZATION PROJECT MEETING VWITH THE PROFESSOR..............

After 9am Mass at T.C., we will go across the street to CUA for part two of our Hispanic Ministry seminar with Sr. Dr. Guadalupe, focused on a Boston College study by a Dr. Ospina, on Hispanic Ministry in parishes of the United States.  It is the most recent survey completed in the past year plus of statistics and findings as to the presence and practice of Ministry to and with Hispanic peoples.  The seminar is scheduled from 9:45am-2pm in the Pryz Center.  Then at 3pm I will have a thirty minute meeting with Dr. DeLillio to discuss my proposal for my New Evangelization final exam project.  The outline is to be presented in class next week and researched, written. and submitted, online for the five weeks of Cohort 2014 remaining June 16th - July 20.  I will be discussing with him my ideas and his about a project on Evangelizing on Disability Ministry..............fr.tdp

Thursday, June 5, 2014

CUA DAY 4 - LECTOR @ MASS, "REBUILT", MORE ROLEPLAYS, AND IGNATIAN SPIRITUALITY..............

I volunteered to be the Lector this morning at our 8:15am Mass in the Theological College 1st Floor Chapel.  Then in our New Evangelization class with Fr. Dr. DeLillio, we discussed the book, "Rebuilt", by White and Corcoran, about a NE impacted model of parish a short distance from here in Maryland, and how this experience of implementing the New Evangelization might work in our own parishes and parochial settings. That was followed by our Caring Conversations class with Msgr. Dr. Rossetti, and  two more client/counselor roleplays. In about an hour it is back to McGivney Hall on campus, for our Spirituality in the Workplace class with Deacon Dr. McCormack, for a discussion on the Two Standards St. Ignatius Loyola teaches us in the experiencing and understanding of the Spiritual Exercises..............Fr.  Troy

Wednesday, June 4, 2014

MORNING PRAYER, HISPANIC MINISTRY, AFTERNOON MASS..............

Today we will begin our day at CUA with Morning Prayer followed by part one of a seminar on Hispanic Ministry presented by Sister Guadalupe Ramirez, who completed her D.Min degree here last year at age 66, and is now teaching at the Mexican American Catholic College in San Antonio, Texas.  This will be followed by a mid-afternoon Mass.  The entire session will take place in the Great Room on the 3rd Floor Pryzbyla Student Center on campus, from 8:30am -3pm..............fr.tdp

Tuesday, June 3, 2014

MORNING MASS DAY 2 IN THEOLOGICAL COLLEGE CHAPEL AND THREE CLASSES IN MCGIVNEY HALL @ CUA..............

We had Morning  Mass at 8:15am in the Main Chapel of the Theological College, across the  street  from CUA, followed by classes in McGivney Hall on the University campus, two in the morning, one after lunch, as reading and preparing to start researching in the campus libraries for projects and papers due between now and July 20th..............fr.tdp

Monday, June 2, 2014

THE SUMMER RESIDENCY FOR THE D.MIN PROGRAM'S OPENING ORIENTATION, MASS, AND MEETINGS WITH THE PROFESSORS..............

Day 1 of our Summer Residency CUA D.Min program started officially at 8:30 am with Hospitality as we met and introduced ourselves to fellow students, our professors, and other faculty and staff, then an Orientation led by the University Dean and others as a Welcome / Overview and walk through the Introductory Information folder.  This was followed by Mass in Caldwell Hall Chapel.  Following Mass, the Orientation continued, with Lunch and then thirty minute class meetings with each of our three professors, in the Pryzbyla Center. The formal day wrapped up at  2:15 pm.  This evening I will have to decide on a scenario to present tomorrow morning as a simulated client speaking to a simulated counselor in a Caring Conversations roleplay..............fr.tdp

Sunday, June 1, 2014

THE ASCENSION OF JESUS AND MY ARRIVAL FOR SUMMER COHORT ONE @ CUA IN DC..............

Between last Thursday and today Catholic-Christians around the World have celebrated the Ascension of the Glorified and Resurrected Lord Jesus to the Right Hand of the Heavenly Father.  This Solemnity of the Ascension has brought md via a redeye flight to our Nation's Capital, the District of Columbia, where I will be residing for the next two weeks. I am here doing the first year summer cohort for the Doctor of Ministry program at the Catholic University of America in Washington SouthEast.  During these two weeks of the Summer Residency course studies, I am living at the Theological College across the street from CUA.  From the Master Calendar Msgr. Michael Clay sent us it looks and sounds like a resourceful two weeks ahead.  I am thrilled to be here and  to meet the students and professors I have been studying online with since March 31st..............Father Troy

Saturday, May 31, 2014

WEDDING # 154 ON MY NUPTIALS HIT PARADE..............

Today I officiated at my 154th Wedding as I presided at the Nuptial Mass of Gabriela Vogelsang to Alejandro Rubio.  The Bride is the daughter of my CSU-Sacramento Lambda Chi Alpha Fraternity brother, Scott Vogelsang.  Alejandro and Gabriela had their Marriage witnessed in St. Rose's Church in South Sacramento with Victor Herrera serving as Lector and Acolyte.  The newlweds completed their Evenings for the Engaged Marriage Preparation with me and Permanent Deacon candidate couple Paul and Sharon Friedrich.  Congratulations on becoming a sacramental and covenant relationshio married couple, "Mr. and Mrs. Rubio..............fr.tdp

Wednesday, May 28, 2014

THE DIOCESE OF SACRAMENTO WAS ERECTED 128 YEARS AGO TODAY..............

It was on this date May 28th, one hundred and twenty eight years ago, in 1886, that Bishop Patrick Manogue, succeeded in moving the See City of the then Diocese of Grass  Valley to the Capital City of California, erecting with ecclesiastical approval the Diocese of Sacramento...

MAYA ANGELOU - FORMER POET LAUREATE, SINGER, ACTRESS, AND PROFESSOR, DEAD @ 86...............

Thursday, April 24, 2014

SOLEMNITY OF EASTER WEEK AND POURING INTO MY CUA D.MIN. STUDIES..............

Week 4 of my postgraduate studies with the Catholic University of America, in these weeks online, are streaming forward quickly now through May 31st, and then there will be  two weeks of residential study at CUA, in Washington, DC; followed by five more  weeks online, through August 20.  In this first year of the Doctor in Ministry (D.Min degree) course of study in Pastoral Care, the three classes my fellow students and I are enrolled in are in the Theology and Religious Studies Department are -  Caring Conversations; The  New Evangelization; and Spirituality in the Workplace.  I am very pleased for having this productive opportunity to further my education as a priest in such a meaningful way that will expand my capability to more effectively minister to those with Special Needs and the spread of Disability Ministry in the Church..............Father Troy David

Wednesday, April 23, 2014

EASTER WEDNESDAY AND THE PASCHAL LESSONS WE CAN LEARN FROM POPE FRANCIS AND BLESSEDS JOHN XXIII AND JOHN PAUL II..............

On this Solemnity of Easter Wednesday as we approach in about ninety hours from now, the Canonization as Saints of Blesseds Pope John XXIII; and Pope John Paul II; we as the Paschal People of God, Faith and Life Lessons to embracing the New and Risen Life of our Lord Jesus Christ.  The emerging Pontificate of our present Holy Father Pope Francis, who will preside at the Canonizations of his two predecessors, also illumines us and all peoples as to the power of the Resurrection in our lives.  +Angelo  Roncalli, who became Pope John XXIII, October 28, 1958-June 3, 1963; who  called and opened the Second Vatican Council, was a man, priest, bishop, of great Faith, enlightened Vision, and deep Humility. + Karol Wojtyla, known as Pope John Paul II, October 16, 1978-April 2, 2005; who proclaimed the work of the New Evangelization, was a man, actor, priest,  and bishop, whose extensive world travels as Pope made him a spiritual and pastoral leader for others in the Church.  His Holiness Pope Francis is teaching us daily what humble and faithful dedication to our Catholic-Christian Faith and Discipleship means for us and others, as we simply but profoundly witness to the Risen Christ. as he himself is powerfully exemplifying.  May these contributions of Living Faith by these three Supreme Pontiffs inspire us to do even more to fulfill God's Call this Easter and always going forward..............fr.tdp

Tuesday, April 22, 2014

THE EASTER SIGNIFANCE OF DANCING WITH THE STARS AND THE BOSTON MARATHON..............

What significance does Season 18 of the television show, 'Dancing With The Stars', and the 2014 Boston Marathon ran yesterday, share with Easter and the Paschal Mystery have in common ?  The answer  is : New Life.  The New Life of Christ's Resurrection is reflected in New Life exemplified by Bostonians and those participated in yesterday's annual Patriot's Day Run, after last year's wanton bombing of the  Marathon that killed three persons and wounded/maimed more than two hundred others...New Life. "Boston Strong".  That New Life is also being emulated the past six weeks by  Amy Purdy, Olympian / Paralympian of Team USA.  Despite the loss of her feet, wearing a prostehic on both feet, with intensive practice and skill, she is succeding weekly through the competition and will go into Week 7 of the 10 week competition, with a legitimate shot at the finals and  the championship.  Go Amy ! Keep Going Forward !!..............fr.tdp

Sunday, April 20, 2014

EASTER MONDAY AND THE EFFECTS OF THE RESURRECTION OF JESUS ON GOD'S PEOPLE................

Easter Monday  being the second day of the Glorious 50 Days of the Paschal Season shines the Light of the Risen Christ upon in splendor and joy.  As we  embrace the fullness of the Paschal Mystery given to all Believers in the Resurrection of Jesus The Christ, during the Easter Season may we wisely accept the  grace of the Holy Spirit and the Gifts and Fruits that define our Salvation.  The primary effect the Resurrection of Jesus provides us, is the ability to be Ambasssadors for Christ to others.  How have you begun to achieve this yesterday and today, and in what ways will you do so, between now and Pentecost Sunday ?  Do not merely put the Joyful Glory away, or hide it under a bushel basket of mortal clutter, but let it shine out brighter and brighter and grow in the Light of the Lord thats builds you and me a  place in God's Everlasting Kingdom.  Alleluia ! Alleluia !!..............fr.tdp

EASTER SUNDAY 2014 A.D. - THE GLORIOUS RESURRECTION OF JESUS THE CHRIST ALLELUIA !!!..............

Dying for the sins of Humankind Jesus The Christ is the perfect Lamb of Sacrifice.  Rising from the dead Jesus is supreme Victor conquering sin and mortality as the Redeemer of Humankind.  Easter Sunday the Day of the Resurrection of Jesus, Son of God and Savior of the World, has come and Christ Is Risen ! He Is Truly Risen  !!!  On this day the first of days in Salvation History, Jesus The Christ fulfilled the Paschal Mystery and opened God's Kingdom to all persons who Believe and Follow the way of Discipleship to Eternal Life.  As the Glorious Light of New Life in the Risen Christ shines forever brighter on this 1st Day of the Paschal Season may our hope in sharing in the Resurrection grow stronger during the 50 Days of the Easter Season 2014. Alleluia !!!..............Fr. Troy David

Saturday, April 19, 2014

FIVE YEARS AND 159,000 BLOG POSTS VISITS - APRIL 19TH 2009 - 2014..............

This Holy Saturday / Easter Vigil / Nightwatch of the Resurrection, April 19, 2014; has triple meaning in my Life, Faith, and Catholic-Christian Ministry.  First, as it is for all Disciples of Jesus the Lord of  Salvation, the beginning of the third day of the Sacred Easter Triduum.  Second, it is the 28th anniversary of the day my St. Patrick's Seminary classmates were ordained Transitional Deacons.  Third, it was 5 Years ago today, that I began this blog, "Insights Into Life  And  Faith By Father Troy David Powers".  I give  Praise and Glory to God for these blessings and opportunities to serve and to help lead the People of God in the Ministry of the Catholic Church and particularly in ordination to the Priesthood of our Risen Redeemer Jesus Christ.  Acclaiming Alleluia For the New and Risen Life Jesus shares with us..............Rev. Fr. Troy David Powers

HOLY SATURDAY A TIME OF SOLEMN ANTICIPATION IN JESUS' PROMISE...............

Holy Saturday, the day bridging the Passion and Death of Good Friday and the Glorification and Resurrection, of the Redeemer of Humankind, is a quiet day that results in a highly celebratory night.  Other than rehearsals for the Rites of Christian Initiation and sacramental Confessions, the only Liturgy celebrated today on Holy Saturday, is the Easter Vigil Service tonight after dark.  It is a day of preparation for the Great Feast of Easter.  Our Eucharistic celebrations of the pinnacle of the Paschal Mystery Easter Mass on the Solemnity of Easter, and preparations for whatever Easter Meal we will share tomorrow, are key focuses today.  May the quiet serenity of the Sacred Triduum's day between the days be abundantly, gracefully yours..............fr.tdp

Friday, April 18, 2014

GOOD FRIDAY - DAY OF SORROW...DAY OF JOY..............

On this second day of The Easter Triduum, as we continue the one, great, Liturgy of the Paschal Mystery of the Lord Jesus, we reverence the Wood of the Cross that Christ bore in enduring His Passion and Death for the Forgiveness of our sins.  The sorrow and separation caused by the divisiveness of Sin between the Divine and Humankind, could only be bridged and reconciled by a perfect sacrifice of atonement.  God's Saving Son Jesus, was Anointed by the Heavenly Father  to be offered up as the Suffering Servant Whose Sacrificial Death and Glorious Resurrection makes perfect Atonement and garners our Redemption.  Thus, what first seems  to be a day of Sorrow, Good Friday is actually a day of Joy.  A day of Joy for having our sins  forgiven; and a day of Joy for the selfless, accepting, willingness of Jesus as God's Son to be laden down, with a heavy Cross for us and all Believers who acknowledge and follow Him as our Lord, God, and Redeemer..............fr.tdp

Thursday, April 17, 2014

POPE FRANCIS' HOLY THURSDAY HOMILY ON THE INSTITUTION OF THE PRIESTHOOD..............

Celebrating his second Holy Thursday, the first day of the Easter Triduum 2014 A.D., His Holiness preached at the Chrism Mass, consecrating the Holy Oils as the Bishop of Rome today, of the sacrificial and at times unpleasant, responsibilities of the Priesthood of Jesus Christ, but also affirmed the joy and fulfillment it brings when the priests ordained by the Church are focused on caring for the People of God.  The Mass of the Lord's Supper he presided at this evening, was again not celebrated in a Roman basilica, but this year  in a Rehabilitation Center for Disabled Persons and the Elderly, at which he washed the feet of both women and men..............Father Troy David

Wednesday, April 16, 2014

WEDNESDAY OF HOLY WEEK IN SEARCH OF THE OF RISING ABOVE THE SELFISHNESS OF SIN..............

During the past year Espionage has been much in the news given the activities and disclosures emitting from Eric Snowden, et al.  This Catholic-Christian Wednesday of Holy Week is traditionally called. 'Spy Wednesday', as the Gospel proclaimed today, Matthew 26:14-25; shares how Judas Iscariot spied on and agreed to betray the Lord Jesus.  Spying, as such is not limited to the  scale it is shown to have occurred by Judas or Snowden.  How often do we or other persons spy on the lives of other people daily by the prying, gossip, or inordinate concern,  about who they are ?, what they do ?, where they go ?, who they spend their time with ?, ecetera.  To some degree we  all do.  Having spent the past twenty five months surrounded by a sea of citizens, I have become more aware how prevalent it is.  It has caused me to question why any of us chooses to spend our time letting our curiosity  grow so out of proportion, so as impose our untoward focus on others.  It doesn't help us, benefit them, or do other than betray God's Will for us and all Humankind.  By  spying on other persons this way we become more like Judas than we become  more like Jesus.  As we seek the goodness Catholic-Christianity can bring us and our adherence to Jesus provides us.  Building up relationships with others, not denigrating or prying into them, will prevent us  from becoming another Judas Iscariot and betraying the purpose and meaning of our Discipleship in Christ..............fr.tdp

Tuesday, April 15, 2014

ENCOUNTERING THE JUST ONE WITH GOD'S GRACE..............

The immemorial Son of God; the prophesied  Suffering Servant for all  Humans; the Just One of Creation; is Jesus The Christ the Lord of Salvation whom we honor and adore as our Redeemer for accepting and carrying out His Heavenly Father's Will in the Paschal Mystery by embracing Passion, Death, and Resurrection, for us and for all sinners.  As Catholic-Christians we have observed the Forty Days of Lent in order to be reconciled with God and returned to Holiness in the Discipleship of Jesus we need and seek.  Jesus, The truly Anointed One by God the Father, is the Just One of Salvation who imparts God's Grace upon us if we are willing to encounter Him sacrificially and sacramentally.  As we make the sacrifices necessary for our sins and celebrate and affirm the sacraments that strengthen  and sustain us with the goodness of a vibrant relationship with the totality of God in Christ, may the Blessings of the Just One be yours and mine this Holy Week and Easter Triduum..............fr.tdp

Monday, April 14, 2014

MONDAY OF HOLY WEEK AND THE CROSS THAT LEADS TO LIGHT AND SALVATION..............

Jesus, the  Co-Eternal Son of our Heavenly Father carried the wood of a heavy Cross as an integral component of the Mission of Redemption and Reconciliation He accomplished through the Paschal Mystery.  Our sins and the sins of all Humankind increase the heaviness of the Cross of Christ that led to His ignominious Crucifixion and Death.  As we accept accountability for our faults and failings and carry our share of the wood of the tree Jesus bore, let us do so with confidence and hope that the sacrifice and self-giving we share for God's Greater Glory and the Common Good of others in addition to ourselves will afford us the Light and Salvation that is the ultimate experience we will ever attain..............fr.tdp

Sunday, April 13, 2014

PALM SUNDAY 2014 AND MATTHEW'S PROCLAMATION OF THE PASSION..............

As the sacred and solemn days of Holy Week and the great events in Salvation History that occurred during these seminally significant days opens for the Year of Our Lord 2014 - on this Palm Sunday the  triumphal entrance and greeting of Jesus in Jerusalem with Hosannas, are a paradoxical opening act to what happened as these days unfolded, as Jesus was arrested, accused of blasphemy, tried, condemned, and crucified, as the sinless suffering servant for the Redemption of our sins and saving of our souls.  On this First Day of Holy Week we hear in the Liturgy of the Word, one of Isaiah's Suffering Servant Songs, just as we will hear the others in the days ahead; and the Passion Narrative of Matthew is also proclaimed today.  Isaiah's description of a Suffering Servant who will become  the sacrifice of atonement and forgiveness for all - manifested in Jesus Christ; and the Passion of Christ as given to us  by Matthew portrays Jesus and his actions as Messianic, underscoring His Anointing as God's Son to be the One chosen to be the Savior for  all Humankind.  May our mutual journeys through this Holy Week find us accepting our share in the sacrificial selflessness of Jesus The Christ, so as to be  truly worthy of the triumph and the glory Jesus attains for us through His Passion, Death, and Resurrection..............Father Troy David

Saturday, April 12, 2014

MANIFESTING THE PRESENCE OF THE GREAT ONE WHO IS SERVANT OF ALL..............

As we finish five  weeks of Lenten Repentance from our sins  and Conversion of our hearts to greater do the Lord's Will for our Good and the Good of the Church and all the World, how  does the way  we have changed during Lent show itself in our lives ?  Are we more loving, caring, and attentive, to the needs are Catholic-Christians.of the poor, the downtrodden, the sorrowful, the suffering, the marginalized, and the disabled ?  If not, why ?  As the authentic observance of self sacrifice during these 40 Days can only have made us more  sensitive and self-giving as Disciples of the Lord Jesus, Who came into the World to serve and not to be served, setting an example for all who are Catholic-Christians.  Pope Francis is also setting just such an example of Holiness and Service, cherishing and exhibiting most as Supreme Pontiff his role as the Servant of the Servants of God; The People of God - Catholics and non Catholics, Christians and UnBelievers, Persons of other Religions and  Spiritualities, Atheists, Homosexuals,...Everyone.  In these final days of Lent and with Holy Week, the  Easter Triduum, and the Pasch, upon us starting tomorrow, to which of these  persons have you reached out  to or served as Jesus The  Christ and the Holy  Father Francis want us to do ?  Now is the time to continue building those relationships and constructing the way of Jesus between ourselves and others, as we honor and carry out our share in the Mission and Ministry of Salvation  Jesus suffered, died, and rose, to attain for Humankind..............fr.tdp

Friday, April 11, 2014

POPE FRANCIS SPEAKS OUT ON CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE..............

His Holiness Pope Francis spoke out unequivocally today making a personal  apology for the sexual abuse committed by priests and acknowledging the Church must be, "even stronger" in dealing with the perpetrators.  Pope Francis' statement follows his appointment last month of a Commission to oversee and  respond to increasing the Catholic Church's addressing of the problem, with members that include international advocates for abused victims and Boston Archbishop Cardinal Sean O'Malley, who has honestly and effectively with the child sexual abuse crisis he inherited in the Archdiocese of Boston Massachusetts, ground zero in the American sexual abuse scandal in the United States..............fr.tdp

Thursday, April 10, 2014

CHRISM MASS OF THE OILS DAY IN THE SACRAMENTO DIOCESE..............

Today is the annual Chrism Mass in the Diocese of Sacramento, which includes a morning to afternoon priests conference led by newly ordained Auxiliary Bishop Myron Cotta at St.  Joseph's Church in Clarksburg; and a Social and Dinner followed by the Mass of the Oils; where Bishop Jaime Soto will preside joined by his Auxiliary  and Bishops Emeritus, along  with priest concelebrants, and in the presence  of the  college of deacons, consecrated religious, and the assembled laity.  In addition to the consecrating of the Sacred Chrism Oil, Oil of the Catechumens, and the Oil of the Sick, at this Eucharistic Liturgy, the diocesan and religious priests present will renew our Commitment to presbyteral ministry.  I will be in attendance with my brother priests and the People of God gathered in the Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament in downtown Sacramento..............Fr. Troy David

Wednesday, April 9, 2014

CONNECTING OUR CHRISTIAN FAITH WITH NEW LIFE IN JESUS..............

What makes us Catholic-Christians ?  Belief in God ? Baptism in the Name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit ? In addition to Baptism, the Sacraments of Confirmation and Eucharist ? Regularity in Prayer, Worship, and Ministry, in an ongoing relationship with  Jesus The Christ ? Sharing in the service and leadership necessary for living the life of a Disciple ?  I think we can agree all of  these are vital facets of truly being a Catholic-Christian.  But it is also essential that we honor our Commitment to these definitions of Catholic-Christian Discipleship.  Lip service  or lukewarm practice of any and all of the attributes of Catholic-Christianity as I have described them is not enough.  True Faith in Action for those who are  devoted to believing and following Jesus The Christ and building up God's Kingdom, are  deeply rooted in living Gospel Values, carrying out the Beatitudes, and anchored in fulfilling the  Spiritual and Corporal Works of Mercy, that are at the central core of being a Catholic-Christian Disciple.  With the highest holy days of the  entire year coming next week with the celebration of the Paschal Mystery and the Easter Triduum, may we rededicate ourselves to real reasons for being a Catholic-Christian and seeking Salvation, treating the  definition of what makes us a Disciple of Jesus not magic, but mystery.  Reaching beyond superficial claims of being a Believer in God and Follower of Christ, by wholeheartedly practicing what we profess, every day, every Sunday, not just on a few holydays and special occasions but throughout the year and throughout our lives.  How fully are you  connected to your  Faith and Discipleship in our Heavenly Father, Saving Redeemer, and  Sanctifying Spirit, of Life  and Love  ?..............fr.tdp

Tuesday, April 8, 2014

THE WORLD'S MOST PERFECT PRAYER - THE OUR FATHER..............

As we come to the culminating days of Lent that lead us to the Paschal Mystery and the Salvation Events of the Easter Triduum, the Sacred Heart East Sacramento Elect for Christian Initiation, were further steeped tonight in the Lord's Prayer in a detailed presentation by Msgr. Walton.  The Our Father, as Catholics commonly refer to this prayer because it begins with the words, "Our Father", has been referred to as, "The World's Most Perfect Prayer", for what it contains and the acknowledgements it makes.  1.) It gives Adoration to God...2.) It expresses Contrition for our Sins...3.) It proclaims Thanksgiving  to the Heavenly Father...4.) It asks Supplication for the needs of Ourselves and Others...the first letters of these actions spelling out, ACTS, as in the Acts of the Apostles, in the New Testament.  All Disciples of Catholic-Christian Faith can benefit from the fine points of praying the Our Father and putting into daily  practice the Acts of Adoration, Contrition, Thanksgiving, and Supplication, that make the Lord's Prayer our most perfect and precise prayer..............fr.tdp

Monday, April 7, 2014

A FRIENDLY, FRATERNAL AND FAMILY, VISIT FROM FATHER BILL KINANE AND THREE OF HIS NIECES..............

Now in the twenty sixth month of  being made to subsist in a personal purgatory of geriatrics without being one, under appreciated and warehoused to the extent that my persistence to proceed in priestly led me to prayerfully discern a proactive way forward by resuming my postgraduate education and studies for a Doctor  of Ministry degree  in Pastoral Care, which started last week; it is a wonderful opportunity when I am able to visit and interact with my brother priests.  During these two years plus in the daily twilight zone of a senior citizens center detached from the regularity as a 57 year old priest from residing in a rectory and being engaged in parish life it is a true joy when colleagues who continue  to truly care  about me as a fellow priest and as a person, reach out to visit me in affirmation of our fraternity and friendship.  A dozen of them have maintained that quality of contact, three of them coming to see me in recent weeks.  The latest being on Monday being Reverend Father Bill Kinane, who from September 26, 1988 - May 14, 1992, I served with he as Pastor and me as Associate Pastor at St. John the Baptist Parish in Folsom.  Monday Bill telephoned to tell me he wanted to come and see me with a niece visiting him from Ireland.  They arrived an hour later with another of his nieces who has lived in New York for twenty five years and one of his grand nieces.  His niece Alice now lives in Urlingford, County Kilkenny; the hometown of Msgr. Edward Kavanagh's family and the locality where my  seminary classmate Fr. Oliver Maher is the Parish Priest. It was a delightful conversation with the four  Kinane family members and the chance to meet Alice who owns 'Away With Flowers', in Urlingford  with whom I had only spoken to by phone during the past year,.  I am grateful to Bill Kinane  for thinking enough of me to include me in his nieces visit to Sacramento.  It affirms I am not forgotten or unappreciated by persons and priests like him who continue to honor the fraternity of priests..............fr.tdp

HEARING JESUS AND LISTENING TO OTHERS..............

When we prayerfully take the time to hear and respond to the voice of Jesus, then we are truly able to listen to other persons with authenticity and effectiveness.  Being truly concerned for what another person is saying to us with attentiveness and without being distracted,  disinterested, or determined only to get through with it, are the attributes of being a friend, family member, or fellow believer.  Sincerely listening to the person needing to share with us, or honestly communicating whether a better time when you can be  available to do so, is the Christ like manner to react when we cannot listen and respond rightly at the  very moment we are called upon to be good and necessary listeners.  Think of those times when  you need to be heard and listened to well by someone you know and trust.  Are you not frustrated if the person you are speaking to is tuned out or only going through the motions of listening to you ?  Is it preferable that they are honest and tell you it is not a good time then to put up a pretense ?  And if  you and I are soundly grounded in listening to Jesus and availing in prayer  and reflection of being listened  to by Him as a best friend, then we will  be aware of when and where is the best time to be listened to by others and to be a truly helpful and welcome listener ourselves.  God is calling us right to increase our willingness to listen through the words of Sacred Scripture and in the generosity of our Prayers.  Are  you open and ready to Listen to Jesus the Lord and to the person in your circle right now needing to be listened to by you.  Be open, be kind, be ready, to hear  with the ears of a Disciple of Christ..............fr.tdp

Sunday, April 6, 2014

THE FIFTH SUNDAY OF LENT AND WHAT THE RAISING OF LAZARUS MEANS FOR US..............

Jesus wept  at the death of his dear friend Lazarus.  But Jesus did more than weep.  He exercised His Divine power as the Son of God to raise Lazarus from the dead.  Making the restored life of Lazarus a forerunner of His own Resurrection and a sign to His Disciples of the promise of New and Eternal Life we bear as Christ's Followers.  Although Lazarus' rising on earth was then only temporary and he  died humanly once more at a given point in time;  he like we, are assured by Jesus' action of raising His friend from death  and by suffering, dying, and rising, to New and  Everlasting Life in the Paschal Mystery - attains for us the Promise and Hope of sharing in the Resurrection for Eternity.  As  you hear the Gospel of John 11:3-7; 17; 20-27; 33b-45; proclaimed and preached on this 5th Sunday of Lent, give praise and glory to  God, that when our lives arrive at death it  will not be the end, but the beginning of a glorious transition to New Life Forever in God's Eternal Kingdom of Love..............Father Troy David

Saturday, April 5, 2014

OVERCOMING THE HURDLES TO SEEING AND BEING WHO JESUS WANTS US TO BE..............

The consequences of disobedience and sin being fallen human nature, there are in every person's life no matter how good and virtuous we are -  hurdles to be overcome and shortcomings to be addressed.  They may be lapses in morality, or the occurrences of diseases and disabilities, we fall susceptible to, or limitations and obstacles imposed upon us  by others with their own agendas of obstruction.  I learned in my youth the necessity not to let those obstacles and  obstructions stop me from being  the best and most hardworking person I can be, despite the disability I have endured from birth by rising above it and anything standing in the way of accomplishing the goal of  fully being me. The same  is true  of moist disabled or diseased  persons seeking not to be  held captive by the circumstances they are confronted by.  Our best friend and greatest advocate in overcoming the hurdles in our lives is the Lord Jesus, the Divine Teacher and Healer, Who calls and enables us to  be all we can be as citizens  of  the World and  Disciples of Faith. I have had  to revisit that reality anew in the past few years as  a result of my transplant and amputation, and the indifference, insensitivity, and even ignorance,  I have had  to contend with on the part of some who have a disconnect with the disabled and those  with special needs. I have come to realize if that is true for me as a Priest of Jesus Christ,  how many more persons in the disability community are being treated  in like manner, maybe even more so.  No  human being or institution should be  allowed  to obstruct or stop us from being the  persons wants us and sacrificed Himself for us to be as Catholic-Christians.   Just as I have prayerfully discerned and decided to act in a proactive to rise above the hurdles currently placed in my life and  ministry; so too, do I strongly encourage you not to give up or give in, whatever your conditions, but to find a positive response to  act upon and that facilitates your ability to move forward instead of being stalled or set aside.  In the  United States that includes the  assurance and advocacy such  as the Americans with Disabilities Act (A.D.A.) the National Catholic Partnership for Disability (N.C.P.D.) and the U.S. International Council on Disabilities (U.S.I.C.D.) among an increasing number of organizations and ministries serving and  advocating for those of us with Disabilities and Special Needs.  My current action to further and strengthen my priestly ministry is to resume my postgraduate education so as to better serve and lead others in Disability Ministry.  Whatever your passion, exercise the rights of your human dignity and rise above your obstructions and decide to do what Jesus The Lord is inviting you to embrace and experience as you move forward in Living Faith and Fidelity..............fr.tdp

Friday, April 4, 2014

THIRTY PEOPLE CONFIRMED DEAD IN WASHINGTON STATE EARTHQUAKE..............

Nearing the two week mark following the hillside collapse and mudslide in Washington State USA, the Snohomish County Medical Examiner has confirmed 30 persons  dead and announced another 13 persons are still missing  and unaccounted for.  The March 22nd disaster just above the north fork of  the Stillinguamish River came crashing down and overflowing the riverbanks onto Highway 530 and the outskirts of the town of Oso, Washington.  The  mudslide engulfed  three dozen or more homes, burying residents under mud and debris.  Among the latest  resulting deaths being reported are a 67 year old woman and a  13 year old boy, whose bodies were discovered in recent days.  May our heartfelt prayers and sympathies be with the family members who have lost loved ones, as we pray for those killed and for those still missing.  God Bless and Be  with the townspeople of Oso, Washington in this time of grief..............fr.tdp

Thursday, April 3, 2014

AS SACHEART R.C.I.A. STUDIES MARK'S GOSPEL THE DADS GROUP CONTINUES READING AND REPLYING TO THE ACTS OF THE APOSTLES..............

The march of the Lenten Season toward the Paschal Mystery and  Christian Initiation of Easter 2014 moves ever closer to culmination, as do the ministries of the R.C.I.A. and the Dads Group at Sacred Heart Parish in East Sacramento, I am a participant with.  The Elect for Initiation have been  reading the Gospel of Mark the last two weeks.  The Dads Group  is continuing their way through the Acts of  the Apostle and a book by the late Scripture scholar Raymond Brown,  S.S., they share weekly responses and insights from our study.  An exhilarating formational  and insightful experience of Catholic-Christianity it  continues to be for the Catechumens,  Candidates, and Young Dads, taking part as we move  forward..............fr.tdp

Wednesday, April 2, 2014

A PRAYERFULLY DISCERNED PROACTIVE PUSH FORWARD IN FURTHERING MY PRIESTLY MINISTRY..............

After  waiting on the  sidelines of a senior citizens residence for more than two years, at only age 57, with persons twenty to forty five years older and without an assignment to priestly  ministry or a parish placement, thus doing only minimal, piecemeal, pastoral  ministry as a result; after much prayerful  discernment and the counsel of several persons who truly care about me and the continuation of my active ministry as a Priest of Jesus Christ, I have made a proactive decision to further the effectiveness of my ministry as a  priest.  I have decided to resume my postgraduate education and have enrolled at the Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C., to study for a Doctorate in Ministry degree.  The D.Min studies are both online and residential.  It began online this  Monday March 31st, continuing through May; will includes two weeks  of class instruction on the CUA campus in June; and then continues online through August.  That will be the schedule of study for the spring  and summer of  2014, 2015,  and 2016.  That will be followed by two additional semesters completing and defending a dissertation and a pastoral project to be implemented.  I made an orientation to the campus last week and am all the more impressed and excited to be starting this newest meaningful life and ministry experience.  My D.Min studies are in Pastoral Care with a concentration on the New Evangelization.  My particular degree focus will be on Disability Ministry.  As  a life long disabled person and a priest with special needs, my desire and empathy for strengthening positive participation and inclusion of Persons With Disabilities and Special Needs is the ongoing goal of entering  and completing this postgraduate education endeavor.  I thank everyone for their prayers, affirmation, and support, now as you have been through the years.  More updates on my CUA D.Min endeavors son and often..............Father Troy David Powers

Tuesday, April 1, 2014

7.1 MILLION ENROLLEES IN THE AFFORDABLE CARE ACT AT FIRST DEADLINE..............

Following the passage and enactment of the Obama Administration's Affordable Care Act national  healthcare plan,  the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) studies projected 7 million Americans would sign-up for the ACA, by the end of the first enrollment period March 31, 2014.  Despite the continuing political controversy swirling around the law, and the disasterous rollout of the sign-up website which caused the CBO to lower its projection to 6 million initial enrolles, when the March 31st deadline arrived this week, the number of Americans now enrolled is 7.1 million persons.  With the snafus of late 2013 with accessing the application process online all but arrested and a full court press by the White House in recent weeks to sign up new enrollees, theinitial goal was met.  The CBO is now projecting that by 2017, 24 million Americans will be enrolled  in the Affordable Care Act.  As the national healthcare law and  the politics associated with it continue to go forward, Insights Into Life And Faith, willblog and  report on pertinent developments..............fr.tdp

WELCOME TO MY BLOG

I AM GLAD YOU ARE HERE VISITING MY BLOG, "INSIGHTS INTO LIFE AND FAITH BY FATHER TROY DAVID POWERS"

ENJOY READING MY REFLECTIONS ON CURRENT AND HISTORICAL CIRCUMSTANCES FACING THE PEOPLE OF GOD IN THE WORLD.

TELL YOUR FAMILIES AND FRIENDS TO JOIN YOU HERE.

GRATEFULLY YOURS,

REVEREND FATHER TROY POWERS

Followers

Blog Archive