Vision: To Cultivate the Spiritual Growth of Catholic Men in the Chicago Southland |
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The CMCS Mission: Catholic Men Chicago Southland (CMCS) is engaged in fostering holy and courageous men and proclaiming the importance of husbands and fathers.
CMCS is a Catholic Apostolate of Bishop Mark Bartosic, founded in 2004 by Most Reverend Joseph N. Perry, Deacon John Rangel, and Mr. Frank J Casella. |
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Catholic Man Moment Message
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Click the button below to watch this week's Sunday Gospel reflection: |
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Gospel for Sunday, October 12, 2025
Twenty-Eighth Sunday in Ordinary Time
As Jesus continued his journey to Jerusalem,
he traveled through Samaria and Galilee.
As he was entering a village, ten lepers met him.
They stood at a distance from him and raised their voices, saying,
"Jesus, Master! Have pity on us!"
And when he saw them, he said,
"Go show yourselves to the priests."
As they were going they were cleansed.
And one of them, realizing he had been healed,
returned, glorifying God in a loud voice;
and he fell at the feet of Jesus and thanked him.
He was a Samaritan.
Jesus said in reply,
"Ten were cleansed, were they not?
Where are the other nine?
Has none but this foreigner returned to give thanks to God?"
Then he said to him, "Stand up and go;
your faith has saved you."
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By Frank J Casella, CMCS Executive Director |
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Have you ever encountered someone who claims to hold one belief but acts in contradiction to it?
Have you ever struggled to make a decision, unsure of the right path to take?
In my volunteer experience with Catholic Men, we frequently discuss the process of decision-making.
Ultimately, it often relates to our personal belief systems. It’s crucial for us to ensure that our choices, both at work and at home, are aligned with having Jesus Christ at the center of our lives. |
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My late father used to say,
“If you don’t stand for something, you’ll fall for anything.” This highlights the significance of understanding our beliefs. Interestingly, even an atheist is aware of their stance: they do not believe in God or Jesus.
I’ve observed that many converts to the Catholic Faith are often more passionate about the Church’s Truth than those of us who were raised in it.
Why is that?
I believe it’s because converts have consciously chosen their faith rather than simply inheriting it |
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When we consciously make decisions in life, rather than having those choices made for us, we demonstrate a deliberate commitment to our actions. However, I've noticed that many of us tend to avoid making intentional decisions and instead choose to live in the moment, focusing solely on our needs, wants, and personal desires.
For Catholic's, the question arises: how can we make conscious decisions that align with our beliefs?
Personally, I try to approach the situation by viewing it through Christ’s perspective. I begin by asking myself whether this decision aligns with my own agenda or if it reflects God’s will. I consider how Jesus would perceive the situation or the individual involved, and how He would choose to respond through me. |
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Often, when I look for where God is active in a situation, I encounter factors that exceed my own capabilities. I also strive to lead my life as an ongoing prayer, engaging in a continuous dialogue with God, prioritizing listening over speaking. This requires practice in being attuned to the Holy Spirit and being receptive to 'the voice.' Start by testing the smaller choices to ensure you are accurately hearing it before progressing to the more significant decisions. |
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I dedicate a few minutes each day to quiet thinking. After releasing my mind from the day's worries, I jot down several reflections, treating them as thoughts rather than a to-do list. As time passes, the process becomes easier; with increased seriousness, discipline, and sincerity, you will find that clarity emerges, and you may even feel divine guidance.
By practicing this, you’ll discover that decision-making becomes more straightforward, allowing you to gain clarity on matters more swiftly, as you understand your beliefs. Some decisions require the insight of others, which is why it’s essential to seek trusted counsel—whether from a priest, a spiritual director, or a close friend—for assistance in discernment. |
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Why does this matter?
Because our time on Earth is fleeting. The time we have remaining should be dedicated to creating a positive impact for future generations, improving on what we inherited. We achieve this by making thoughtful choices in our daily lives, ensuring that over time, we lead a fulfilling life rather than one filled with confusion and aimlessness.
In other words, I have never encountered anyone who was solely focused on themselves who found true happiness, joy, or satisfaction in life. |
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Determine what you truly believe, and allow that belief to shape your decisions in life. At times, you may discover that this contrasts with societal expectations. However, if you don't stand firm in your beliefs, others won't understand your position — and neither will you. |
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Nurturing Your Spirituality with Catholic Resources |
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Explore our inspiration blog featuring support, encouragement, and Catholic information related to our mission of fostering Catholic Men. |
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Announcement: Bishop Bartosic has chosen Frank J. Casella, Executive Director of CMCS, as the recipient of the prestigious Bishop Quarter Award. The award is presented annually to a lay Catholic who exemplifies dedicated service to the ministries of the vicariates or Archdiocese of Chicago, with only one award granted per Vicariate each year.
The award certificate states: Bishop William Quarter, the first Bishop of Chicago, placed his trust in the Lord who provides for the foundation of the Church in every age. This award is bestowed upon an individual Catholic whose trust in the Lord has guided him in service for the benefit of His Church.
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Bishop Mark Bartosic with the CMCS cofounders, (L) Deacon John Rangel and (R) Mr. Frank J Casella. (Photo by Richard Mantoan). |
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Catholic Men Chicago Southland
Apostolate of Most Reverend Mark Bartosic
Executive Director, Frank J Casella
Phone calls by appointment via email.
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