Unlike previous wars, fought between nations with defined borders and armies to defend them, what we witnessed on 9\11 was part of war between modern western culture and an ancient one. They view us as an enemy, which seeks to impose its culture, way of thinking and way of life on them. That is why the targets were so symbolic: the World Trade Center, the heart of western financial dominance and the Pentagon, the heart of western military might.

Because their religion is so closely identified with their culture, they try to dignify their struggle by wrapping it in religious rhetoric and garb. More than anything else, they would like to turn back the clock to the fourteenth century and the golden age of the Islamic Empire. This empire was the most dominate in the world, controlling the Middle East, all of North Africa, Spain and Eastern Europe.

A DIFFICULT WAR It will be very difficult for the US to fight this new kind of war. There are few clearly defined national enemies. The soldiers of this cultural war dress in ordinary clothes, and operate cloaked in secrecy and use terror as their primary weapon. As a result, our military might well not be very effective.

Instead, it will take a concerted effort to work together with many nations, not just western ones but Moslem nations as well, working together to track down and bring to justice all those who plot terror.

We will also need to use diplomacy as never before. Not just to bring many nations together in this effort, but in order to bring a just resolution to the simmering conflicts which are a breeding ground and school for the soldier of this new kind of war. For as Pope Paul VI said, "If you want peace, then work for justice!" Just solutions to the continuing conflicts will then isolate these cultural warriors, making it possible for the world to capture them and bring them to justice.

While many feel a need to strike back on those responsible for the destruction and devastation of 9\11, I hope and pray that our government leaders will have the prudence and wisdom to approach this new kind of war in a new way.

A FLAG Before we moved the rectory to clear the site for our present building, (Yes, folks we picked up that big house you pass on our driveway) there was a flagpole in front of the house. During construction, the pole was carefully removed and set aside.

But our excavator stole the eagle from the top of the flagpole (I asked several times for its return…) and children in the area used the pole for a springboard. As a result, we lost the original one.

Thanks!

Fr. Dave Howell

Please pray that the sick will respond to God’s healing will, especially: Laura Drittler, Chuck Coleman, Bob Brookins, Randy Manetta, Angela Cooney, Audrey Snyder, Kathy, Donald, Bonnie, Jack Bogos, Sophie Martin, June Bennett, Steve, Shirley Brake, Jaylee Doremire, Brad Heinitz, Jean Killen, Steve Thuss, Joyce Fraser, Ethan Montague, Micah Zielinski, Dave Sharpy, Harold Stewart, Rosemary Duffy, Priscilla Davis, Tom Johnson, Carolyn Johnson, Mary Johnson, Chuck Horka, Patti Conahan, Matt Even, Jimmy Sexton, Mel Oja, Elsie Whetter, John, Adam Weitzel, Mary Beth, Mary Lou Colgin, Joey Boyd, Merrick, Paul Duff, Kateri Sullivan-Golbiw, Mike, Linda Nagle, Bishop Povish, Joanna Bloese, Ellen Colombo, Karen, Laurie Deirlein, and Donovan.

Please remember in your prayers Mary Stephens and family in the death of Ed Stephens, Mary’s husband; and Sam & Kathy Petrocella and family in the death of their son-in-law, Robert Pheister.

On Wednesday, Sept 26 we will celebrate the Sacrament of the Sick during the 7pm Liturgy. All who have serious or chronic illness are especially invited.

The dishonest manager in today’s parable knew how to manipulate money to his own advantage. But the Gospel warns that no one can serve both God and money. Which do I serve? Is my stewardship such that anyone can tell?

MANY DISHES REMAIN in the Social Hall from funeral lunches, parish picnic, etc. Please know we are very grateful for your generosity whenever these occasions arise. If you brought a dish for any event here recently and have not picked it up, please take the time to stop in the social hall and pick up your dish.

God Bless Sister Maryetta, Joyce Gonda of the Parish Nurse Ministry, and all of the Samaritans who provided meals to my family during my unexpected illness. Thanks for all the prayers for my recovery. It has been nothing short of a miracle.

The RCIA Program has started a Sponsor Pool this year. We are in need of sponsors for the Catechumenate candidates. If you would like to join the Sponsor Pool or find out more information about this commitment please contact Ann Fraser at (517) 545-9279 or Deacon Dave (810) 229-8624.

Catechists are still needed in all of our Sunday Programs, Wednesday 6:30 and Thursday 6:30 sessions. Our program depends on you! Our parish vision statement reminds us that we envision a strong religious education program that will excite our youth into learning and sharing with us fully. Help us put this vision into action! We will help train you, experienced catechists will meet with you, and the teacher’s manual is easy to follow!

Religious Education Classes will begin with an Open House on October 3 & 4. The Wednesday and Thursday families will gather in Church at the beginning of their class times.

Reminders for 10^th grade Confirmation candidates: Retreat is Sat. 9-29 from 10-3. You must call the office to register and parents are reminded that the letters are due in to Sr. Maryetta by Thursday. Those who worked at home over the summer are reminded that they must meet with me.

Thanks! Mary

Our first meeting since the lock-in was a lot of fun! In spite of September’s tragedy, we found ourselves in laughter with each other in God’s presence. It was a welcome relief for us all to be together. The event has changed me to be more aware and thoughtful of the people around me. It was awesome to be surrounded by such wonderful young people!

This weekend, the teens going to Indianapolis for the National Catholic Youth Conference (NCYC) will be collecting your empties in the barn after all the Masses.

November 3 is Jamboree! It is a diocesan wide day long event that takes place in Lansing. It will be a joy filled, God filled day. If you would like more information, call me at 227-7937. It is truly worth your time to participate. Any adult who wishes to chaperon, please contact me. The cost is $35 for workshops, lunch, dinner, and the dance.

October 13 and 14 we are holding a bake sale to benefit the NCYC participants. Any and all donated bake goods will be appreciated.

September 28, we are going to Howell to The Maze! A corn maze located off Burkhart Road. More information is located in the gathering space.

Margaret Callaghan

The expression "better late than never." just begins to summarize this year’s parish picnic. It proved to be one of our largest turnouts and gave us all an opportunity to come together in prayer and friendship at a time when we all needed to feel the strength and perspective that only faith can provide. A special thank you to everyone who helped make this day so memorable, especially Rick and Sandi Phillips and my husband Jim who served as our co-chairs.

Beginning Tuesday, September 25, at 7:30 p.m. we will start REFOCUS. REFOCUS is an opportunity for couples to come together in small groups to share and discuss the various issues of married life. Join us for our first meeting in the Social Hall. For more information call me at the parish office 229-8624.

There is still time to join us for the Story of David, our fall Thursday morning scripture study. Beginning September 20, at 10:00 a.m. in the Adult Formation Room. There is a daycare program available during our sessions.

If you’ve ever felt intimidated opening a Bible we are also offering Bible Basics. A four-week course in the how, when and where of studying scripture. Join us Thursday, October 4 at 1:30 p.m. in the Adult Formation Room. Sign up sheets will also be in the gathering area this weekend.

In the coming months it appears that we as a nation will once again be asked to defend the liberty and democracy that we hold so dear. We at St. Mary Magdalen would like to keep our active military family members and friends in our prayers. In order to do this, we will have a book available in the gathering area for you to place their names. We will also be starting a military support group in the parish for those with family members on active duty during this period. There will be a separate sign up sheet for those interested in joining this group in the gathering area. For more information call me in the parish office.

Yours on the journey, Marilyn

MOMS IN TOUCH is a prayer group for our schools. There will be a Regional Rally on Friday, Sept. 28, from 9:00am until noon at Huron Hills Baptist Church. The location is 3150 Glacier Way in Ann Arbor. Please RSVP to Karen Jeffries at 734-397-2771.

Back Care Class Tuesday, October 2nd at 7PM presented by Frank Federico a professional personal trainer. A healthy back is strong, flexible and pain free. Learn how to stretch and strengthen muscles and joints that support your back. Proper back care can improve a problem back, maintain a healthy back, and "train" your back to stay well aligned and strong. The exercises in this class are safe for most people. They are not, however, intended as a substitute for professional health care. Please join us for a lively and informative evening. Sign-up in the Gathering Space.

Workshop & Discussion Group will meet Friday October 5th from 1-3 PM Come to share ideas and support one another! This is a terrific opportunity to learn of alternative therapies and coping strategies. We welcome the community, friends and family. Please call Joy Sullivan for further information at (810) 227-6372.