CFL Fall 2021

F A L L 2 0 2 1 M E M B E R M A G A Z I N E

SPECIAL MEMBER BENEFITS JUST FOR YOU

GIVE THE GIFT OF LIFE INSURANCE A TRIBUTE TO BILL O’TOOLE

A Message From Our CEO SEMPRE AVANTI…ALWAYS FORWARD! Dear Friends,

At the end of this year, I will be retiring as CEO and John Borgen will assume responsibilities as President and CEO. This year has been a tremendous opportunity to work together with John ensuring a smooth transition during these uncertain times. John is an outstanding leader and has my full confidence and support. I look forward to working with him in the years ahead as a member of the Board of Directors. Our strategy for growth and digital transformation is the right path forward. John and his dynamic team of leaders, associates and advisors are well positioned to embrace the opportunities and challenges in the years ahead. I am very pleased to leave the Society better than I found it. Our financial strength including record-high surplus position enables strategic investments to propel our fraternal mission and develop the products and digital tools necessary to keeping us relevant and competitive. I have loved serving the Society these past years as we embraced Society-wide common causes such as: caring for the poor, helping those with special needs and caregivers, and of course providing value to our members in expanding our educational and spiritual benefits. Our fraternal business model enables us to use our financial gains to benefit members, our Church and communities … your ownership of our financial products makes all that possible! Finally, thank you to all our members, associates, advisors and retirees. You have created a caring, accountable and innovative culture always focused on serving the best interest of our members. Serving all of you has been the great honor and gift of my professional career. May God Bless you all. As we prepare for the coming of our Savior, may this Advent be filled with gratitude for all He has done for us. Until we meet again … Fraternally,

President John Borgen and CEO Bill O’Toole

I have loved serving the Society these past years as we embraced Society-wide common causes such as: caring for the poor, helping those with special needs and caregivers, and of course providing value to our members in expanding our

educational and spiritual benefits.

Bill O’Toole CEO bill.otoole@catholicfinanciallife.org (414) 278-6700

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Board of Directors: John Borgen, Richfield, Wis. President

Kristen Mueller, Greenfield, Wis. Corporate Secretary & Vice President of Human Resources

FALL ‘21

Michael Stivoric, Pewaukee, Wis. Chairman of the Board

2 A Message From Our CEO 4 Mensaje del Director Ejecutivo 5 A Message From 6 A Tribute to Bill O’Toole 8 How to Set Up an Online Account 10 Give the Gift of Life Insurance 12 Special Member Bene fi ts 14 Tentative Member Events

Sandra Dempsey, Milwaukee, Wis. Coral Grout, Winchendon, Mass. Joe Kopinski, Greenfield, Wis.

Al Lorge, Cedarburg, Wis. Jay Mack, Hartland, Wis. Lisa Mick, Fond du Lac, Wis. Kari Niedfeldt-Thomas, New Brighton, Minn. Susan Obermiller, Green Bay, Wis. David Singer, Kenosha, Wis. Jeff Tilley, Franklin, Wis.

Our Spiritual Director

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15 Joseph E. Gadbois

Spiritual Director: Archbishop Jerome E. Listecki, Milwaukee, Wis.

“God Bless America” Photo Contest

16 Remembering Prayer During the Christmas Season 17 Give Back Contest 18 Serving God Through Serving Others 21 Personal Introduction Program

Radiant Life is the official publication of: Catholic Financial Life 1100 West Wells Street P.O. Box 3211 Milwaukee, WI 53201-3211

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Catholic Financial Life Magazine

Catholic Financial Life 1100 West Wells Street Milwaukee, WI 53233

Phone: (800) 927-2547 Copyright © 2021 Catholic Financial Life. All rights reserved. About the Cover: Members enjoyed Fall activities at Basse’s Taste of Country in Colgate, Wis.

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FALL 2021 CATHOLIC FINANCIAL LIFE 3

Mensaje del Director Ejecutivo SEMPRE AVANTI…ALWAYS FORWARD!

Queridos amigos, A finales de este año, me retiraré como director ejecutivo y John Borgen asumirá responsabilidades como presidente y director ejecutivo. Este año ha sido una gran oportunidad para trabajar junto con John asegurando una transición sin problemas durante estos tiempos tan inciertos. John es un líder sobresaliente y tiene toda mi confianza y apoyo. Espero trabajar con él en los próximos años como miembro de la Junta Directiva. Nuestra estrategia de crecimiento y transformación digital es el camino correcto a seguir. John y su equipo dinámico de líderes, empleados y agentes están bien posicionados para aprovechar las oportunidades y desafíos en los años próximos. Estoy muy contento de dejar la Sociedad mejor de lo que la encontré. Nuestra solidez financiera incluyendo una posición récord de superávit permite inversiones estratégicas para impulsar nuestra misión fraternal y desarrollar los productos y herramientas digitales necesarios para mantenernos relevantes y competitivos. Me encantó servir a la Sociedad en los últimos años al servir causas comunes de la Sociedad como: cuidar a los pobres, ayudar a los que tienen necesidades especiales y sus cuidadores y, por supuesto, brindar valor a nuestros miembros para expandir nuestros beneficios educativos y espirituales. Nuestro modelo de negocio fraternal nos permite utilizar nuestras ganancias financieras para beneficiar a los miembros, nuestra Iglesia y las comunidades ... ¡Su propiedad de nuestros productos financieros hace que todo eso sea posible! Finalmente, gracias a todos nuestros miembros, empleados, agentes y jubilados. Han creado una cultura afectuosa, responsable e innovadora siempre enfocada en servir los mejores intereses de nuestros miembros. Servir a todos ustedes ha sido el gran honor y regalo de mi carrera profesional. Que dios los bendiga a todos. Mientras nos preparamos para la venida de nuestro Salvador, que este Adviento esté lleno de gratitud por todo lo que ha hecho por nosotros. Hasta que nos encontremos de nuevo … Fraternalmente,

Presidente John Borgen y Director Ejecutivo Bill O’Toole

Me encantó servir a la Sociedad en los últimos años al servir causas comunes de la Sociedad como: cuidar a los pobres, ayudar a los que tienen necesidades especiales y sus cuidadores y, por supuesto, brindar valor a nuestros miembros para expandir nuestros beneficios educativos y espirituales.

Bill O’Toole Director Ejecutivo bill.otoole@catholicfinanciallife.org (414) 278-6700

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Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ Part of the tradition of becoming a bishop is creating an Episcopal motto. Inspired by St. Paul’s letter to the Philippians, I selected “Life is Christ” (Phil 1:18-26). It means that every aspect of life is intertwined with faith and belief in Jesus Christ!

Parte de la tradición de convertirse en obispo es crear un lema episcopal. Inspirado por la carta de San Pablo a los Filipenses, seleccione “La vida es Cristo” (Filipenses 1: 18-26). ¡Significa que cada aspecto de la vida está entrelazado con la fe y la creencia en Jesucristo! Recientemente, el Papa Francisco anunció la formación de un Sínodo ... una oportunidad para caminar por el mismo camino junto con Jesús. Un Sínodo es una oportunidad para que todos exploremos lo que realmente significa “La vida es Cristo.” Durante este camino, estamos llamados a participar experimentando los tres verbos que caracterizan un Sínodo: encontrar, escuchar y discernir . Encontrar: A través del proceso sinodal, estamos llamados a convertirnos en expertos en el arte del encuentro. Esto incluye dedicar tiempo a la oración, la adoración y escuchar lo que el Espíritu Santo quiere decirle a la Iglesia. El Santo Padre compartió que este es un “momento para mirar a los demás a los ojos y escuchar lo que tienen que decir, para construir una relación, para ser sensibles a las preguntas de nuestras hermanas y hermanos, para dejarnos enriquecer por la variedad de carismas, vocaciones y ministerios.” Escuchar: El verdadero encuentro proviene de escuchar. En su encuentro con el hombre que pregunta qué debe hacer para heredar la vida eterna (Mc 10, 17), “Jesús simplemente escucha, el tiempo que sea necesario; no tiene prisa. Lo más importante es que no tengas miedo de escucharlo con el corazón y no solo con los oídos ”, dice el Papa Francisco. Cuando escuchamos con nuestro corazón, las personas sienten que están siendo escuchadas, no juzgadas. Se sienten libres de contar sus propias experiencias y su viaje espiritual. Escuchemos al mundo, a los desafíos y cambios que tenemos ante nosotros. Discernir: El Papa Francisco compartió que “el encuentro y escuchar no son fines en sí mismos. Al contrario, siempre que entablamos un diálogo, nos dejamos desafiar, para avanzar en un camino. Y al final, ya no somos los mismos.” Un Sínodo es un proceso de discernimiento espiritual. Al encontrarnos y escuchar en este viaje, también necesitamos discernir lo que Dios quiere de nosotros y lo que estamos llamados a hacer. Como fraternalistas, creemos en el poder de unirnos para hacer el bien en el nombre de Cristo. Nos esforzamos por vivir la vida como Cristo. Los animo a participar en el camino sinodal de encuentro, escuchar y discernimiento. Juntos, encontraremos a Dios Padre a través del Espíritu Santo. ¡Gracias por su discipulado y las muchas formas en que vive su fe!

Recently, Pope Francis announced the formation of a Synod … an opportunity to walk on the same road together with Jesus. A Synod is an opportunity for all of us to

explore what “Life is Christ” really means. During this journey, we are called to participate by experiencing the three verbs that characterize a Synod: encounter, listen and discern . Encounter: Through the synodal process, we are called to become experts in the art of encounter. This includes devoting time to prayer, adoration and hearing what the Holy Spirit wants to say to the Church. The Holy Father shared, this is a “time to look others in the eye and listen to what they have to say, to build rapport, to be sensitive to the questions of our sisters and brothers, to let ourselves be enriched by the variety of charisms, vocations and ministries.” Listen: True encounter comes from listening. In his encounter with the man who asks what he must do to inherit eternal life (Mk 10:17), “Jesus simply listens, for whatever amount of time it takes; He is not rushed. Most importantly, He is not afraid to listen to Him with His heart and not just with His ears,” says Pope Francis. When we listen with our heart, people feel that they are being heard, not judged. They feel free to recount their own experiences and spiritual journey. Let us listen to the world, to the challenges and changes that are before us. Discern: Pope Francis shared that “encounter and listening are not ends in themselves. On the contrary, whenever we enter into dialogue, we allow ourselves to be challenged, to advance on a journey. And in the end, we are no longer the same.” A Synod is a process of spiritual discernment. As we encounter and listen on this journey, we also need to discern what God wants from us and what we are being called to do. As fraternalists, we believe in the power of coming together to do good in Christ’s name. We strive to live life as Christ. I encourage you to participate in the synodal journey of encounter, listen and discernment. Together, we will encounter God the Father through the Holy Spirit. Thank you for your discipleship and the many ways you live your faith! Sincerely yours in Christ,

Most Reverend Jerome E. Listecki Archbishop of Milwaukee Catholic Financial Life’s Spiritual Director

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FALL 2021 CATHOLIC FINANCIAL LIFE 5

A TRIBUTE TO Bill O’Toole

At the end of 2021, Bill O’Toole will retire as CEO of Catholic Financial Life, although he will continue to serve as a member of the Board of Directors. Here are just a few of his innumerable contributions to the Society.

Reinvigorated Faith and Fraternalism at Catholic Financial Life Bill increased member benefits, created a common cause to serve the poor and those with special needs and was a visible, active presence among our volunteer Chapter Leaders.

faith

Transformed the Business Bill fundamentally transformed Catholic Financial Life’s corporate governance and received the Board of the Year award from Foley and Lardner’s National Directors Institute.

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Champion of Education Through Bill’s leadership, Catholic Financial Life created a scholarship program that awards more than $250,000 in scholarships annually and provides charitable support to Catholic schools across the country. fraternal

Leader in the Fraternal Sector Bill has made a huge impact on the fraternal system nationwide. As a member of the American Fraternal Alliance (AFA) Board of Directors and former Board Chair, he helped lead a restructuring of the Alliance to ensure it best fulfills its mission.

Thank you, Bill, for your passionate leadership these past 15 years. We pray that God will bless you as you continue to live Catholic Financial Life’s mission while embarking on a new chapter of life.

If you would like to send Bill a congratulatory note, please email him at bill.otoole@cfl.org or send a card to: Catholic Financial Life, Attention: Bill O’Toole

1100 West Wells Street Milwaukee, WI 53233

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FALL 2021 CATHOLIC FINANCIAL LIFE 7

HOW TO SET UP AN ONLINE ACCOUNT

Policy owners or insured members can set up an online account with Catholic Financial Life to review their policy, download statements, update contact information and apply for member benefits. To ensure our members’ personal information is protected, we have enhanced our online security systems. In order to set up a new account with catholicfinanciallife.org, you will need the following information as it appears on your Catholic Financial Life Statement: first name, last name, email, street address, zip code and telephone number. You will also need your social security number and birthday.

1. Go to catholicfinanciallife.org or cfl.org , then click My Account in the purple bar at the top of the page. Note: Chrome is the preferred browser.

2. On the My Account Sign In Page , click on Create Account to create a new account. 3. Fill in the required information on the Create Your Account profile page and click Register once finished. Note: Your email address will become your username. Your password must be at least 8 characters long and contain an uppercase letter, lowercase letter, number and special character. 4. Once you are registered, you will receive a Confirmation Email . Please click on the link within that email to verify your account and log into cfl.org. The link in the email you received will take you back to the My Account page . 5. To sign in, enter your username (email address used to register the account) and password that you created. 6. As an added security feature, to keep all of your information safe, you will receive a unique code to help verify that you are trying to log into your account. You can choose to have the code sent via email or text message. Once you receive the code, you will be prompted to enter it into the Sign In screen to complete the log in process. Note: If the number you registered the account with isn’t a cell phone number, please select email. If you do not receive the email, please check your junk or spam folder. If you have trouble creating or accessing your account, please contact our dedicated website support line at (800) 927-2547 and press 1 when prompted.

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Find the Radiant Cross We’ve hidden nine black and white versions of here – throughout this magazine. Members who correctly identify the location of at least one of the nine Radiant Cross icons hidden in this issue will be entered in a drawing to receive a $25 gift card. Please note: the Radiant Cross featured here doesn’t count. Submit your entry by January 14, 2022. You may either submit online at cfl.org/benefits or mail your entry to: the Radiant Cross icon – just like the one you see

Enter to Win a $100 Gift Card

To help better serve you, review your contact information in the My Account section at cfl.org to ensure it’s up to date. Review your contact information by December 17 and you will be entered into a drawing for a $100 Visa gift card. Three winners will be randomly selected. Review your contact information to be entered to win a $100 gift card!

Radiant Life Catholic Financial Life Attn: Marketing 1100 W. Wells St. Milwaukee, WI 53233

How to Review/ Update Your Information

Go to cfl.org/myaccount. A pop-up window will appear when you log into My Account. If you would like to be entered into the drawing, you must review/update your information through the pop-up window and click the appropriate button.

Be sure to include your name, address, phone number, email address and the location(s) of the Radiant Cross.

If you have any questions on updating your contact information, please call (800) 927-2547.

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FALL 2021 CATHOLIC FINANCIAL LIFE 9

GIVE THE GIFT OF LIFE INSURANCE DÉ EL REGALO DE SEGURO DE VIDA With Christmas just around the corner, chances are you have quite a few gifts left to buy. Show your spouse, child or grandchild how much you care about their future this Christmas season by considering the many benefits the gift of life insurance has to offer. Benefits of Life Insurance:

Protection Against the Unexpected

It’s For the Whole Family

You can’t predict the future but you can help prevent against future uncertainty. It’s hard to know if your loved ones will have health or financial problems down the road, but you can do everything in your power to help protect their financial future by purchasing a life insurance policy.

Besides the family dog, not many gifts can be enjoyed by the whole family. However, life insurance is at the top of the list. Life insurance can provide protection and support for your entire family if you aren’t around. It can help maintain their standard of living during an already difficult time.

It’s Affordable

Provide Future Funds

Life insurance premiums are based on a variety of things including your age and health. Purchasing a life insurance policy when your loved ones are young and healthy will help guarantee them protection for years to come and will be an affordable gift.

Life insurance can provide financial support in the event of the unexpected and can also help provide funding for things like education or building your dream home. Whatever stage of life you’re in, life insurance can help you prepare for the future.

Avoid Holiday Shoppers

It’s Unique

Do you prefer to avoid the massive crowds during the holiday season? If so, life insurance is the perfect gift for you. No long lines and no crowds of shoppers, just one call to a Catholic Financial Life Advisor will get you started.

You can bet this will be the most unique gift your loved ones will receive this Christmas. After they lose interest in their other gifts, life insurance is one thing that will never be forgotten.

It’s never too early to start your shopping. Talk to a Catholic Financial Life Advisor today to give the perfect gift this Christmas! cfl.org/giftoflife 15-0059-10/21 Catholic Financial Life is headquartered in Milwaukee, Wis. Products and services are not available in all states.

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Con la Navidad a la vuelta de la esquina, es probable que te queden bastante regalos por comprar. Esta temporada navideña, muestrale a tu esposo(a), hijo(a) o nieto(a) cuánto te importa su futuro. Considera todos los beneficios que ofrece regalar un seguro de vida.

Protección contra lo inesperado Los beneficios del Seguro de vida:

Es para toda la familia

No puedes predecir el futuro, pero sí puedes ayudar a prevenir la incertidumbre. Es difícil saber si tus seres queridos tendrán problemas de salud o financieros más adelante, pero puedes hacer todo lo posible por ayudar a proteger su futuro al comprar una póliza de seguro de vida. Las primas de seguros de vida se basan en una variedad de factores como la edad y la salud. Comprar una póliza de seguro de vida cuando tus seres queridos son jóvenes y saludables ayudará a garantizar su protección para los años que vienen y será un regalo relativamente económico. ¿Prefieres evitar la multitud de gente durante la temporada navideña en los centros comerciales? Si es así, el seguro de vida es el regalo perfecto para usted. No habrá colas largas ni multitud de gente, solo tendrás que llamar a un consejero de Catholic Financial Life para que te ayude a empezar el proceso.

Además del perro de la familia, son pocos los regalos que pueden ser disfrutados por toda la familia. Sin embargo, el seguro de vida es uno de los primeros en la lista. El seguro de vida puede proveer protección y apoyar a toda la familia si llegaras a faltar un día. Puede ayudar a mantener su estándar de vida durante un momento que ya es difícil. El seguro de vida puede proveer apoyo financiero por si acaso ocurre lo inesperado, pero también puede ayudar a proveer fondos para el futuro para cosas como el costa de la educación o construir la casa de tus sueños. En cualquier época de la vida que estés, el seguro de vida puede ayudarte a prepararse para el futuro. Puedes dar por sequro que este será el regalo más especial que tus seres queridos recibirán esta Navidad. Después de que pierdan interés en otros regalos, el seguro de vida es algo que nunca se olvidará y ayudará a definir el resto de sus vidas.

Es económico

Proveer fondos para el futuro

Evité la multitude de gente durante la temporada navideña

Es único

Nunca es demasiado temprano para empezar tus compras. ¡Habla con un consejero financiero de Catholic Financial Life hoy para que te ayude a dar el regalo perfecto esta Navidad! cfl.org/giftoflife

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FALL 2021 CATHOLIC FINANCIAL LIFE 11

SPECIAL MEMBER BENEFITS JUST FOR YOU!

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Did you know that as a financial member, you are eligible to apply for a number of special value-added benefits that can enhance your membership? These benefits are one component of membership that differentiates Catholic Financial Life from commercial and mutual life insurance companies.

Financial Benefits

Educational Benefits

• Member Rewards Program – Members may receive savings of up to 70 percent at hundreds of national and local merchants, such as Costco, Disney, Verizon Wireless, Starbucks, Target and more! Additional benefits include estate planning, Childhood Cancer benefit, child protection benefit, prenatal benefit, newborn protection benefit, orphan income and scholarships, special needs benefit and Norton TM 360 with LifeLock.

• Scholarships – Some of our most popular member benefits are our tuition scholarships which are available for students

from elementary school through college. Members attending Catholic grade schools are eligible for $200, Catholic high schools $500 and colleges and/or universities $500 or $1,000 depending upon whether they are attending a two-year or four-year institution.

Deadline for the 2022-2023 school year is March 31, 2022. The qualification criteria for high school and college scholarships have changed.

Wellness Benefits

Spiritual Benefits

• Family Care Suite – Catholic Financial Life offers a hospitality apartment for members or members’ families hospitalized in the Milwaukee area. The suite is available at no cost, subject to availability. • Prescription Savings Program – A member’s entire household can receive prescription savings of up to 80 percent on brand name and generic medications. Additional savings are available on vision care, hearing care and lab testing, plus grocery guidance and medication management tools. • Medic Alert – Members with medical conditions are offered a free first-year membership, which includes the cost of a stainless steel identification bracelet or necklace. • ASPCA® Pet Health Insurance – As a member of Catholic Financial Life, you’re eligible for up to a 10 percent discount on your base plan premium, plus, you can save an additional 10 percent on all additional pets with our multiple pet discount!

• Camp – Members are eligible to apply for up to $100 toward the cost of attending a Catholic summer camp. • Retreat – Retreats can be times of discovery, prayer and spiritual growth. Members are eligible to apply for up to $100 annually toward the cost of a Catholic retreat. • Sacramental – The sacraments of Baptism, First Communion and Matrimony are recognized with a commemorative gift. In addition, confirmands are eligible for $100 toward the cost of their confirmation retreat and seminarians are eligible for scholarships. • Prayer Network – Intentions can be submitted to our online prayer network and are remembered in Masses celebrated in the All Saints Chapel in the Home Office of Catholic Financial Life. For full eligibility requirements, to apply for any of these benefits or to request additional information, visit cfl.org/benefits.

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2022 TENTATIVE MEMBER EVENTS Catholic Financial Life offers a variety of member events for your family and friends to enjoy! Listed below is the 2022 tentative member events calendar. Official dates will be released in early 2022. Visit cfl.org/memberevents to learn more and register for these events.

Snowtubing at Sunburst – January Kewaskum, Wis. Milwaukee Admirals Hockey Game – February Milwaukee, Wis. Virtual Bingo – March Milwaukee Brewers Baseball Game – May Milwaukee, Wis. Ne  – Roger Williams Park Zoo – June Providence, R.I. Summertime Fun at Fireman’s Park – July Columbus, Wis. Festa Italiana – July Milwaukee, Wis. Ne  – Woo Sox Game – July Worcester, Mass. Milwaukee Zoo – July Milwaukee, Wis. Wisconsin State Fair – August West Allis, Wis. Mexican Fiesta – August Milwaukee, Wis. New – Minnesota State Fair – August/September Falcon Heights, Minn. Pilgrimage to Our Lady of La Salette – September Attleboro, Mass. Basse’s Taste of Country – October Colgate, Wis. Virtual Bingo – November

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JOSEPH E. GADBOIS “GOD BLESS AMERICA” PHOTO CONTEST

The theme for this year’s Joseph E. Gadbois photo contest was America the Beautiful! The winning photos were judged on quality, composition and alignment with the theme. All those who entered the contest received a commemorative photo frame magnet. The first-place winner was awarded a $100 gift card, second-place winner a $50 gift card and third-place winner a $25 gift card. Here are the top three photos! Included are Joseph E. Gadbois’ comments on why they were chosen. Congratulations!

First Place Little Chicken Farmer By: Kim R.

I love the joy in Max’s face while holding his favorite pet chicken Hay-Hay. He raises these birds and gives the neighbors free eggs and receives small tips! “Joining with others to share our bounty is American tradition. The boy and chicken make a perfect pair in being generous with her eggs. Also, the composition and lighting are excellent.”

Second Place Girl Scout Cookie Sales By: Susan and Paul B.

Third Place Wisconsin Winter Sunset By: Brittani M.

This is Girl Scout Natalie from Troop 8082 selling cookies to help raise funds for the local club. Girl Scouts play an important role in helping to teach young women different skills that may help them in their life. Maybe someday one may be a doctor, senator, governor or even President of the United States of America. “Organizations like Scouting help build future leaders and encourage volunteerism. Girl Scout cookies are a tasty tradition of giving and this scout is a very cheerful representative. The photo shows how doing good can be fun.”

Sometimes in the dead of winter it can be hard to see God’s beauty around us. In the still of the early evening, I caught the sun peeking through the bare trees. I felt God’s peace and presence at that moment. To me, the sunset is one of God’s most beautiful gifts to us in nature. “Hope radiating in the midst of difficulties has been our nation’s hallmark and the sun piercing through leafless trees in a snow-covered landscape captures this perfectly.”

Watch for more information on next year’s contest, beginning May 2022.

Read more at cfl.org

FALL 2021 CATHOLIC FINANCIAL LIFE 15

REMEMBERING PRAYER DURING THE CHRISTMAS SEASON The holidays can become hectic searching for the perfect present, preparing food for family gatherings and attending Christmas parties. However, staying grounded in prayer through Advent and Christmas is a present from God that will help you stay present. Prayer offers a beautiful way to remember the joy and hope the season brings and the blessings we have. As the Christmas season draws near, we are presented with an opportunity to pause during all the festivities and consider the true reason for the season. As a Catholic organization that believes strongly in the power of prayer, we invite you to submit your intentions to our Prayer Network and join nearly 135,000 members in prayer. Intentions will be prayed for through the Pope’s Worldwide Prayer Network, in Masses held quarterly in the Home Office’s All Saints Chapel and by anyone who feels called to visit our Prayer Network to pray for others in need.

To submit your intentions or find someone in need of your prayers, visit cfl.org/prayer. Christmp ar s ayer

Catholic Financial Life’s Daily Advent Reflections Catholic Financial Life has once again created an online Advent calendar to help keep the holidays Christ-centered. Register for our Advent calendar to receive daily scripture readings, inspiration and Christmas activities right to your email by visiting cfl.org/advent.

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GIVE BACK CONTEST

In celebration of Catholic Schools Week, January 30 - February 5, 2022, Catholic Financial Life will hold our annual Give Back Contest! Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, teachers have had to change what classrooms and learning look like on a daily basis. Despite this everchanging environment, teachers across the country are spending countless hours going above and beyond to ensure students succeed and that the transition is smooth and easy. This year, we’ll once again honor Catholic school teachers across the country for their hard work and the positive impact they make on their students. Their everyday acts can often go unnoticed, but it’s our goal to shine a light on these unsung heroes. Nominate a Catholic school teacher for their remarkable dedication to transforming the lives of their students. Nominations are due by Friday, January 7. The top three teachers will receive a $500 cash prize. Additionally, each winner’s school will also receive a $4,000 donation. Contest winners will be announced during Catholic Schools Week. Visit cfl.org/givebackcontest to nominate your favorite Catholic school teacher and for additional contest details.

Read more at cfl.org

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SERVING GOD THROUGH SERVINGOTHERS

Linda Rosiejka (right), Chapter 141, Jefferson, Wis., presented a check for $300 to 8 th grade teacher Cindy Olson at St. John the Baptist Catholic School for supplies in the “Adopt a Classroom” program.

giving

Chapter N160, Biddeford, Maine, sponsored the “Special Prizes” section of the St. Thomas School Spring Fever Fair, raising funds to benefit the school.

Representatives from Catholic Financial Life’s field and Home Office honored those celebrating 25-, 50- and 75-years of membership at an event sponsored by Chapters 261, Cross Plains, Wis., 267, Lake Wisconsin, Wis., and 280, Ashton/ Middleton, Wis. The 75-year members shown here received a statue of the Blessed Virgin to commemorate this milestone.

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Want your chapter to be featured in a future magazine? Submit your best, high-resolution photos and detailed captions to chapterphotos@catholicfinanciallife.org. “It’s not how much we give, but how much love we put into giving.” – Saint Mother Teresa of Calcutta

Chapter 88, Madison, Wis., participated in the Schoenstatt Drive-Thru Sloppy Joe Lunch and Bake Sale to benefit the Schoenstatt Sisters of Mary.

More than 500 members enjoyed an afternoon of baseball with the Milwaukee Milkmen. Coordinated by Chapter 206, Milwaukee SW, Wis., and sponsored by nine local chapters, the event included an all-you-can-eat picnic lunch with brats, hot dogs, sliders, chips, beverages and more!

President John Borgen (right) and Advisor Gary Fichtner (left) attended a celebration hosted by Chapter 318, Mequon/Cedarburg, Wis. honoring individuals who achieved milestone years of membership with Catholic Financial Life.

Officers from Chapter 2, Manitowoc, Wis., held a brat fry at the local Piggly Wiggly to support the Society of St. Vincent de Paul. The event raised more than $850, and earned a $500 match from Catholic Financial Life.

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FALL 2021 CATHOLIC FINANCIAL LIFE 19

IMPACT TEAMS Are you looking to make an impact in your community? Would your team like to assemble care packages for those serving in the military, organize a nature trail “clean-up,” or conduct another type of project that would make a positive impact? Gather your friends and family to become an Impact Team! As a member, simply gather at least four other people (members or not) to form an Impact Team, complete a short application to explain what the group would like to do, and once approved, Catholic Financial Life will provide financial support and Impact Team t-shirts for up to five people! It’s that easy! Get started today by visiti fl.org/impactteams ng c

An Impact Team in Green Bay, Wis. purchased, assembled and sold raffle tickets at an event raising money to support the building improvement fund for three ites parish s .

An Impact Team in Wisconsin made more than 20 blankets that were distributed at an outdoor movie night hosted for children with cancer.

What cause interests you? What type of project would make a positive impact in your community? Learn how to create your own Impact Team! Visit cfl.org/impactteams for more information.

An Impact Team in Suamico, Wis. purchased children’s clothing, sandals, hair ornaments and small outside toys for children in Kampala, Uganda.

20 CATHOLIC FINANCIAL LIFE FALL 2021

To sign up for the e-version of the magazine, visit cfl.org/radiantlife

It’s a Kid’s Life Page Answers

Baa Baa:

T H E L O R D I S M Y S H E P H E R D T H E R E I S N O T H I N G I S H A L L W A N T

Visit cfl.org/introduction to start referring today!

Lost Sheep:

PERSONAL INTRODUCTION PROGRAM Refer a Friend, Get a Reward! As a member, you made the right choice choosing a financially strong organization to protect your financial future. Now you can help your family and friends experience the same peace of mind. Introduce us to your family and friends through our Personal Introduction Program and for your efforts, we will send you a token of our appreciation. 1 It’s that simple! You will have the option to choose between a $25 voucher to be used toward an upcoming Catholic Financial Life member event or a $20 Visa e-gift card. In addition, you will be entered into a quarterly drawing for a $100 e-gift card the month your referral(s) are submitted. Who to Introduce: Family members 2 Neighbors and friends Co-workers Service providers (dentist, doctor, etc.) Fellow parishioners Parents and teachers from your child’s school Important Life Events to Consider: Gotten married Had a child or grandchild Purchased a home Changed jobs or retired Official Rules: 1 Only current Catholic Financial Life financial members are eligible for this campaign. Awards vary by state. 2 Recommendations of financial members for which you will be the owner or payer or within the same household are not eligible for the award due to legal restrictions. This program can be discontinued at any time without notice. Recommendations must reside in a state where Catholic Financial Life is licensed to conduct business (AR, AZ, CO, CT, FL, IA, IL, IN, KS, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, NE, NH, NM, ND, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SD, TN, TX, VT, WA, WV and WI.) Void where prohibited by law. Headquartered in Milwaukee, Wis. Please allow 30 days to receive voucher or gift card.

This Pope: POPE SAINT LEO

Pray for Souls

Last Stop

HEAVEN

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FALL 2021 CATHOLIC FINANCIAL LIFE 21

Recipe Corner Submit your favorite recipe to be featured in the upcoming Spring edition of Radiant Life. A winner will be selected through a random drawing. To submit your recipe, please email it to vicki.vlach@cfl.org.

Spiced Apple Pancakes

Instructions 1. Mix flour, baking powder, 1 tsp cinnamon, sugar and salt in a medium bowl. Melt 2 tbsps of butter. In a large bowl, whisk to combine egg yolk, vanilla, milk and melted butter. Gently fold dry ingredients into wet ingredients until just combined, then fold in 1 ½ cups of chopped apple. 2. In another medium bowl, using a hand mixer, beat egg white until stiff peaks form. Fold egg white into batter gently with a rubber spatula until just combined. 3. Make apple topping: in a small saucepan over medium heat, melt remaining 2 tbsps butter. Add remaining apples, brown sugar, remaining ½ tsp cinnamon, and a ¼ cup water. Cook, stirring occasionally, until apples have softened and mixture is jammy, 10 to 15 minutes. 4. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tbsp butter. Pour about ¼ cup pancake batter into pan. When little bubbles appear, about 1 to 2 minutes, flip and continue cooking until both sides are lightly golden. Repeat with remaining batter, adding more butter to pan as needed. Serve pancakes topped with apple mixture. This recipe is brought to you by Delish.

Ingredients 2 lbs ground beef 1 lb bulk hot Italian sausage 1 large onion, chopped 1 large green pepper, chopped 4 garlic cloves, minced 1 jar (16 oz) salsa 1 can (16 oz) hot chili beans, undrained 1 can (16 oz) kidney beans, rinsed and drained 1 can (12 oz) pizza sauce 1 package (8 oz) sliced pepperoni, halved 1 cup water 2 tsps chili powder ½ tsp salt ½ tsp pepper 3 cups shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese Pepperoni Pizza Chili Ingredients 1 ½ cup all-purpose flour 1 ½ tsp baking powder 1 ½ tsp ground cinnamon, divided 1 tbsp granulated sugar ½ tsp kosher salt 4 tbsps butter, divided, plus more for cooking 1 large egg, separated 1 tsp pure vanilla extract 1 ¼ cup milk 4 large apples, peeled, cored, and finely chopped (about 5 to 6 cups) ½ cup dark or light brown sugar 3

Instructions 1. In a Dutch oven, cook the beef, sausage, onion, green pepper and garlic over medium heat until meat is no longer pink; drain. 2. Stir in the salsa, beans, pizza sauce, pepperoni, water, chili powder, salt and pepper. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer until heated through, about 20 minutes. Sprinkle servings with cheese. Recipe brought to you by Taste of Home.

Want to connect with fellow cookbook lovers? Consider joining Catholic Financial Life’s Virtual Recipe Club on Facebook! Each week we share new recipes, cooking tips and tricks! Invite your friends and family to join the fun.

22 CATHOLIC FINANCIAL LIFE FALL 2021

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See answers on page 21.

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FALL 2021 CATHOLIC FINANCIAL LIFE 23

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