October 16, 2020 In This Issue ESSENGER M Serving the Diocese of Covington, Kentucky since 1926

2 Foresters support Keener photos seminarians with funds

3 40 years a deacon: The layman’s road to holiness

Installation of Father Jacob Straub: St. Matthew’s new pastor

Coronavirus report

6 ‘We Choose Life’

7 Thomas More University: In-person education experience

12 Obituary: Sister Catherine Marie of the Immaculate Heart, O.P.

Obituary: Sister Mary Kevan Seibert, SND (above left and above right) Bishop Foys blesses the new Guest House at Mary Rose Mission, assisted by Father Jordan Hainsey, his administrative assistant. (right) Mary Wehrman, board member and Becky Wesdorp, board member, look on as Cindy Carris, center, reads a psalm and Moving? Wrong address? Scripture reading at the Oct. 10 blessing. Call the circulation desk, (859) 392-1570 New guest house at Mary Rose Mission will provide was available and she imme- Bishop’s Schedule ...... 2 stability and hope to struggling families diately knew that the mis- Commentary ...... 4 Laura Keener sion was being called back Did You Know ...... 8 Editor home, this time as a Guest House for individuals and families need- People and Events ...... 8 Since 1999, the leadership of Mary Rose Mission has faithfully ing a safe and secure place to live. Shopper’s Guide ...... 12 fulfilled its mission “To Love as God Loves” by serving those in “Some families they just can’t get the support they need. They rely on family and friends but eventually that runs out. They aren’t Classifieds ...... 13 need through the intercession of Mary. That abandonment to God’s asking for a lot — they are not asking for luxuries — just a roof over News Briefs ...... 15 will has led the mission full-circle, with an added new ministry in a familiar place — a Guest House for families needing a home at its their head,” Mrs. Carris said. original home in west Covington. The Mary Rose Mission Guest House is not a program. Instead it Missed an edition? Current and back Bishop Roger Foys blessed the Guest House, Oct. 10. “The volun- offers its guests a stable place to live so that they can begin to issues of the Messenger are available teers and Board Members of Mary Rose Mission take to heart its rebuild their future. There is no timeline and there is no deadline. online at covdio.org/messenger. mission ‘To Love as God Loves’; the new Guest House is its most The only requirement is that guests agree to participate in personal recent example,” said Bishop Foys. “May God continue to bless and financial counseling. them; and may the guests whose lives they touch come to know — “Hopefully our guests will get stable employment and then save through their care — the love of Christ.” up some money and transition to a home or apartment where they The home originally served as a hospice for people who were in can support themselves independently,” said Mrs. Carris. “We have the advanced stages of a terminal illness with no health insurance found that people just need a break — just need a lift — so that they and no family to properly care for them. Many people lived-out their can take a breath and begin moving forward.” final days there and many found or returned to their faith due to the Century Construction has completely remodeled the 3-bedroom, care and support they received from the volunteers — priests, two story home. The home includes a full kitchen, two family women religious, businessmen and homemakers. rooms, two full baths and a fenced yard. The first guest has already “The original Mary Rose Mission house is holy ground — mira- been identified — a single mom with a small child — with plans to cles occurred there,” said Cindy Carris, vice president, as she move in soon. talked about the eagerness of the Mary Rose Mission Board to re- “When this person called me she was in tears. I told her no, no, acquire the property and open the Mary Rose Mission Guest House. no — don’t cry. You have just fallen into the hands of Christ; we have In 2008, with St. Elizabeth Healthcare expanding its hospice cen- got you, it is okay now,” said Mrs. Carris. “She is so scared and she ter, the Mary Rose Mission dissolved its hospice care, selling the has this beautiful child and she just wants to make a life for him.” house in Covington to another non-profit. Mary Rose Mission then Mrs. Carris said she has no reservations in reassuring the mom opened its new ministry — a soup kitchen in Florence where every that everything will be okay. “I can say that because it is all God now.” day volunteers continue to serve a hot meal to guests. “If you seek to love, God will put people in your path. When he Most, if not all, of the guests at the Mary Rose Mission kitchen puts people in your path, he will give you a means to love,” Mrs. are food insecure; some are homeless. Carris said. “We do not fix people, only God fixes people. He just “I get choked up every time I think of this,” said Mrs. Carris, “… gives us the ability to love and that ability to love opens avenue after to see a family living in a car is just devastating. To see a young, avenue … We are just a small instrument here, God is just so good homeless family and to know that they just need a little lift and they and it is so fun to see him work. It is so incredible to help and love would be okay, it’s heartbreaking to see over and over again.” somebody.” Last year Mrs. Carris learned that the Mary Rose Mission house (For more photos, see page 2) 2 October 16, 2020 Messenger

Keener photos

A virtual tour of Mary Rose Misssion (above left) The outer façade of the Guest House in west Covington, the original Mary Rose Mission house. (above center) The stained-glass window of Mary in the upper floor of the Guest House depicts her as looking out over Covington with love. The window was crafted specifically for the mission. Cindy Carris said the house is “holy ground” because miracles have occurred there as residents have realized their identity in Christ and been led to conversion, even late in life. (above right and below left) Bedrooms in the Guest House will provide a safe haven for those seeking comfort and rest. (below right) The kitchen of the Guest House will give guests a place to cook their own meals.

Thatcher photo

Bishop’s Schedule

Oct. 16 Oct. 21 COVID-19 briefing, 9:30 a.m. COVID-19 briefing, 9:30 a.m. Oct. 17 Oct. 22 Mass, Cathedral Basilica of Individual meeting, 9 a.m. the Assumption, Covington, Diocesan Curia staff directors 4:30 p.m. meeting, 9:30 a.m. Oct. 18 Covington Latin School Board Mass, Cathedral Basilica, meeting, 4 p.m. 10 a.m. Oct. 23 Oct. 19 COVID-19 briefing, 9:30 a.m. COVID-19 briefing, 9:30 a.m. Oct. 24 Confirmation, St. Barbara Mass, Cathedral Basilica, Parish, Elsmere, 7 p.m. 4:30 p.m. Foresters support seminarians Oct. 20 Oct. 25 COVID-19 briefing, 9:30 a.m. The Catholic Order of Foresters of Northern Kentucky presented Bishop Roger Foys with a check, Oct. 13, to support the Mass, Cathedral Basilica, diocese’s seminarians. The funds are proceeds of its annual Seminarian Scholarship Fund “Split the Pot” raffle. The raffle Episcopal Council meeting, 10 a.m. received a record number of ticket sales this year, with approximately $6,215 raised. The raffle has raised a total over 10:30 a.m. $40,000 since its induction in 2014. The funds go toward the education and support of the Diocese of Covington’s Confirmation, St. Augustine seminarians. Pictured are (left to right) Sharon Geiger, Kentucky Court secretary; Mark Connaughton, High Court trustee Parish, Augusta and of Kentucky; Mark Hehman, agent; Deacon Brian Cox, chief ranger, St. Catherine Court; Bishop Roger Foys; Father Dan St. Patrick Parish, Maysville, Schomaker, vicar general; Tom Kaelin, general agent for Northern Kentucky; Father Ryan Maher, vicar general; and at St. Patrick Church, 7 p.m. Father Jordan Hainsey, administrative assistant to the bishop. Messenger October 16, 2020 3

40 years a deacon: The diaconate as a layman’s road to holiness Allegra Thatcher sacraments. He loves to preach tual growth … as I was able to give them a deeper insight Assistant Editor and teach, as well as prepare the into Christ and his Church, and the meaning of God’s love Deacon Tom Dushney is celebrating his faithful for the sacraments of for them.” 40th year of the diaconate, and credits it baptism and marriage. Though his ministry has slowed down a bit as he’s with his greater formation as a man. “Recently I’ve been able to advanced in years, Deacon Dushney, now 75, is still joyfully Whether baptizing his grandchildren or witness the marriages of my serving wherever he’s given the chance. He’s looking teaching RCIA, he says his service to the granddaughters and baptize my ahead with peace that he’ll be able to do whatever his pas- Church has been his route to sanctification. grandchildren and great-grand- tor and bishop need from him. “I had a great desire to serve God, his children,” he said. “What a won- “My prayer has been, that I will still be able to minister Church and the people of his Church,” said derful experience that has been to God and his people, that in my old age I will be able to Deacon Dushney. “I had contemplated the for me, and a blessing in my life. participate in ministry and serve as I have for 40 years,” he way Mary said yes to God, and I responded There’s so many wonderful said. to God’s call to do that … to serve God and opportunities to serve the peo- He encourages men interested in the permanent dia- his Church at a greater level.” ple of God. I’m so thankful to conate to prayerfully consider it. “It’s a wonderful opportu- Currently serving at Mother of God God that he called me to this nity to serve as a representative to the people, to be able to Parish, Covington, he was ordained in ministry of the permanent dia- bring God’s love to them.” Camden, New Jersey in 1980 and incardi- conate.” “I attribute it all to God and his loving mercy to me — nated into the Diocese of Covington 1998 “I congratulate Deacon I’ve done nothing to deserve these many blessings in life so when he moved here for his job. At the time, Dushney on his 40 years of ded- whatever I have received, the joy and happiness, I attribute he was assigned to Mary, Queen of Heaven icated and fruitful service to the it all to God’s grace and mercy.” Parish, Erlanger. Lord and to the Church as a per- Deacon Dushney said that through a life Deacon Tom Dushney manent deacon,” said Bishop of service, he’s developed into a much more Roger Foys. “Deacon Dushney whole man. embodies what it means to be a true servant of the Church “It helped me to develop a disciplined prayer life looking after the needs of others and administering to Coronavirus Report through the Liturgy of the Hours, to understand ecclesiol- them with compassion and love. He is a true gentleman (as of Monday, Oct. 12) ogy and teachings of the Church and (have) a deeper rela- and example and witness to everyone and anyone engaged tionship with Christ.” Through this personal spiritual in ministry.” Positive Cases growth, he said he learned how to be a better husband and Deacon Dushney said he’s also been a better spiritual Active positive cases: 7 father, as well as bring Christ into his work place. “It leader of his home through his diaconate. He’s come to Recovered positive cases: 30 reminded me of the call to holiness … that really appealed understand the importance of obedience to the Church, Total ever positive cases: 37 to me and bore fruit in my life,” he said. especially to his bishop and to the teachings of the Church.

Some of his greatest joys during his ministry have been Through his continued learning, he’s been able to share bringing people in to the faith through the Rite of that truth with his family. Currently Self-quarantined Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA) at Mary, Queen of “It’s given me a greater sense of belonging, a sense of Contacts: 5 Heaven Parish, where he was director of Religious personal responsibility to my role as a Christian man,” he Close Contacts: 131 Education, and being involved in the administration of said. “I think my family has most benefited from my spiri- Returned to class after quarantine/ Thatcher photos self-quarantine: Pastor installation From Oct. 6–Oct.12: Bishop Roger Foys installed Father 69 students Jacob Straub as pastor of St. Total ever: 487 students Matthew Church, Kenton, during Mass Oct. 11. Father Straub Schools currently with quarantines and accepted the keys to the parish, as self-quarantines: (22 of 39 schools) well as other symbols of his priesthood and the sacraments he Bishop Brossart High School, Alexandria will administer there. He formally Blessed Sacrament School, Ft. Mitchell read his appointment letter from Bishop Foys, renewed his priestly Covington Catholic High School, Covington promises and led the congregation Covington Latin School, Covington in the creed. Bishop Foys thanked the people of St. Matthew for their Holy Cross District High School, Covington patience after several years of Holy Family School, Covington having a pastoral administrator Holy Trinity School, Bellevue rather than a pastor, and congratu- lated them on standing strong and Immaculate Heart of Mary School, Burlington faithfully as a small parish. Mary, Queen of Heaven School, Erlanger Notre Dame Academy, Covington St. Henry District High School, Erlanger St. Agnes School, Ft. Wright St. Anthony School, Taylor Mill St. Cecilia School, Independence St. Joseph School, Cold Spring St. Joseph School, Crescent Springs St. Mary School, Alexandria St. Patrick School, Maysville St. Paul School, Florence St. Pius X School, Edgewood St. Timothy School, Union Villa Madonna Academy, Villa Hills (Schools without students, faculty or staff in quarantine or self-quarantine do not need to report.) 4 October 16, 2020 Messenger

‘The Martian’ and why each life matters Ridley Scott’s “The Martian” is a splendidly told tale astronauts on the indispensability of practical scientific mal, even the most intelligent, humans can engage in of survival and pluck, reminiscent of the novel intelligence: “You solve one problem and then another properly abstract thinking. In other words, they can “Robinson Crusoe” and the films “Life of Pi” and and then another; and if you solve enough of them, you think, not only about this or that particular state of “Castaway.” In this case, get to come home.” This summary speech communicates affairs, but about fundamental patterns — what the the hero is Mark Watney, what appears to be the central theme of the movie: the medieval called “forms” — that make things what they an astronaut on a mission beauty and power of the technical knowledge the sci- are. The sciences — both theoretical and practical — to Mars who is left behind ences provide. depend upon and flow from precisely this kind of cogita- by his crewmates when he But I would like to explore another theme that is tion. But truly abstract thinking, which goes beyond any is presumed dead after implicit throughout the film, namely, the inviolable digni- particularity grounded in matter, demonstrates that the being lost during a devas- ty of the individual human being. The circumstances are principle of such reflection is not reducible to matter, tating storm. Through certainly unique and Watney himself is undoubtedly an that it has an immaterial or spiritual quality. And this sheer determination and impressive person, but it remains nevertheless strange implies that the mind or the soul survives the dissolution an extraordinary applica- that people would move heaven and earth, spend millions of the body, that it links us to the dimension of God. Plato tion of his scientific know- of dollars, and in the case of the original crew, risk their showed this in a simple but compelling manner. When the how, Watney manages to lives in order to rescue this one man. If a clever, friendly mind entertains an abstract truth, say that 2 + 3 = 5, it survive. For example, real- and exquisitely trained dog had been left behind on Mars, has in a very real way left behind the world of shifting izing that his food supplies everyone would have felt bad, but no one, I think it’s fair impressions and evanescent memories; it has, to use his Bishop Robert Barron would run out long before a to say, would have endeavored to go back for it. Now why still haunting metaphor, slipped free of the cave and rescue mission could ever is this the case? Much hinges upon how one answers that entered a realm of light. And this explains why the very reach him, he endeavors to produce water and, through question. science so celebrated by “The Martian” is also the solu- some creative fertilizing, grow an impressive crop of The classical Christian tradition, with its roots in the tion to the moral puzzle at the heart of the film. We will potatoes. At another critical juncture in the narrative, as Bible, would argue that there is a qualitative and not go to the ends of the universe to save an endangered per- his life hangs in the balance, Watney says, “I’ll just have merely quantitative difference between human beings son, precisely because we realize, inchoately or other- to science the s*** out of this!” and other animals, that a human being is decidedly not wise, that there is something uniquely precious about In time, NASA officials, through a careful observation simply an extremely clever ape. Unlike anything else in him or her. We know in our bones that in regard to a of surveillance photos, realize that Watney is still alive the material creation, we have been made, the Scriptures human being something eternal is at stake. and they attempt to contact him. Some of the most hold, according to God’s image and likeness, and this In the context of what Pope Francis has called our thrilling and emotionally moving scenes in the film have imaging has been construed by most of the masters of “throwaway culture,” where the individual human being to do with these initial communications across tens of the theological tradition as a function of our properly is often treated as a means to an end, or worse, as an millions of miles. Eventually, the crew who left him spiritual capacities of mind and will. embarrassment or an annoyance to be disposed of, this is behind discover that he is alive and they contrive, with all With “The Martian” in mind, let me focus on the first a lesson worth relearning. of their strength and intelligence, to get him back. The of these. Like other animals, humans can take in the Bishop Robert Barron is an Auxiliary Bishop of the film ends (spoiler alert!), with the now somewhat grizzled material world through sense experience, and they can Archdiocese of Los Angeles. Article originally published at Watney back on earth, lecturing a class of prospective hold those images in memory. But unlike any other ani- WordOnFire.org. Spirituality and the second half of life One size doesn’t fit everyone. This isn’t just true for it wasn’t needed because up until this last century most you need to know. Understood properly, there’s a spiritual- clothing, it’s also true for spirituality. Our challenges in people never lived into old age. For example, in Palestine, ity of aging and dying inside these notions, but until life change as we age. Spirituality hasn’t always been in Jesus’ time, the average life expectancy was 30 to 35 recently there was little need to draw that out more fully sensitive to this. True, we’ve always had tailored years. A century ago in the United States, it was still less explicitly. instruction and activities than 50 years. When most people in the world died before Happily, today the situation is changing and we’re IN EXILE for children, young people, they reached the age of 50, there was no real need for a developing, more and more, some explicit spiritualities of and for people who are rais- spirituality of aging. aging and dying. Perhaps this reflects an aging popula- ing children, carrying a There is such a spirituality inside the Gospels. Even tion, but there’s now a burgeoning body of literature — job, and paying a mortgage, though he died at 33, Jesus left us a paradigm of how to both religious and secular — that’s taking up the question but we’ve never developed age and die. But that paradigm, while healthily infusing of aging and dying. These authors, too numerous to men- a spirituality for what hap- and undergirding Christian spirituality in general, was tion, include many names already familiar to us: Henri pens when those years are never developed more specifically into a spirituality of Nouwen, Richard Rohr, Kathleen Dowling Singh, David over. aging (with the exception of some of the great Christian Brooks, Cardinal Bernardin, Michael Paul Gallagher, Why is one needed? mystics). Joan Chittister, Parker Palmer, Marilyn Chandler Jesus seemingly didn’t After Jesus, the Desert fathers and mothers folded the McEntyre, Paul Kalanithi, Erica Jong, Kathie Roiphe and have one. He didn’t have question of how to age and die into the overall framework Wilkie and Noreeen Au, among others. Coming from a one set of teachings for the of their spirituality. For them, spirituality was a quest to variety of perspectives, each of these offer insights into young, another for those in “see the face of God” and that, as Jesus makes clear, what God and nature intend for us in our later years. Father Ron Rolheiser mid-life, and still another requires one thing — purity of heart. So for them, no In essence, here’s the issue: today, we’re living longer for the elderly. He just matter your age, the challenge was the same, trying to and healthier late into life. It’s common today to retire taught. The Sermon on the Mount, the parables, and his achieve purity of heart. Then in the age of the persecu- sometime in our early 60s after having raised our chil- invitation to take up his cross are intended in the same tions and the early Christian martyrs, the idea developed dren, superannuated from our jobs, and paid our mort- way for everyone, irrespective of age. But we hear those that the ideal way to age and die was through martyr- gages. So what’s next, given that we probably have 20 or teachings at very different times in our lives. It’s one dom. 30 more years of health and energy left? What are these thing to hear the Sermon on the Mount when you’re Later, when Christians were no longer physically mar- years for? What are we called to now, beyond loving our seven years old, another when you’re 27, and quite anoth- tyred, the idea took hold that you could take on a volun- grandkids? er when you’re 87. Jesus’ teachings don’t change, but we tary type of martyrdom by living the evangelical coun- Abraham and Sarah, in their old age, were invited to do, and they offer very specific challenges at different sels of poverty, chastity and obedience. They believed that set out for a new land and conceive a child long after this times of our lives. living these — like the quest for purity of heart — taught was biologically possible for them. That’s our call too. Christian spirituality has generally kept this in mind, you all you needed to know, no matter your age. What “Isaac” are we called to give birth to in our later with one exception. Except for Jesus and an occasional Eventually this was expanded to mean that anyone who years? We need guidance. mystic, it has failed to develop an explicit spirituality for faithfully responded to the duties in his or her life, irre- Oblate Father Ron Rolheiser is a theologian, teacher, our later years, for how we are meant to be generative in spective of age, would learn everything necessary to and award-winning author. our senior years and how we are to die in a life-giving come to sanctity through that fidelity. As a famous apho- way. But there’s a good reason for this lacuna. Simply put, rism put it: Stay inside your cell and it will teach you all Messenger October 16, 2020 5

Dare to share the Truth In times of turmoil remember — “The Pharisees went off and plotted how they might ‘only one thing is necessary’ entrap Jesus in speech.” I am, from time to time, surprised by unintended Becoming a parent for the first time is an intimidating calls our “active life.” humor in the Scripture, and this is one line that always experience for most people even under normal circum- The simple point I want to make here (and the point that makes me laugh; that the Pharisees (or anyone) think they stances. Imagine what it’s been like in the year 2020. has brought me peace during these times) is the reminder are clever enough to trap Jesus in his speech I find funny. I had finally mustered up the courage to dive into mar- that the Church has always prioritized what she calls the It is even funnier in the Greek, because it says that the riage and fatherhood and then, less than three months after “interior life” over the active life. Pharisees took counsel about how they might ensnare announcing our first pregnancy, a “once-in-a-life-time” pan- I think remembering this can give us focus and peace Jesus “en logoi,” “in [his] demic hit. during these tumultuous times. There are many crises going words.” Jesus, who is “ho The ensuing political on in society and in the Church right now. Sometimes it feels logos,” the Word, is not and economic instability, we are losing ground on all sides, making us feel the obliga- going to be trapped by the surge in race tensions, tion to run this way and that trying to do something about it human beings through His and, of course, the most all. words. contentious presidential But remember that, in the end, there is really only one But the real reason the race in living memory were thing for which we will ultimately be held responsible. Pharisees will never trap all just cherries on top of Remember that, in Christ’s words, “Only one thing is neces- Jesus is not that Jesus is this nerve-wracking sce- sary,” and that is our interior life, what Pope Benedict just so much cleverer than nario. described as our “personal search for the face of the Lord.” the Pharisees; it is because I’ve always thought it It is our personal striving to discover the Truth and to live in Jesus’ words are always was a little tiresome and accordance as best as we can — first and foremost in our true — indeed are always melodramatic when people own lives and then we can strive to help those in our imme- the Truth. The Pharisees say things like “What kind diate sphere of influence as well. Only then should we strive themselves acknowledge of a world have I brought a to do something bigger. this: child into?!” The world has I’m reminded of an old story my friend’s Ukrainian Father Stephen Bankemper “Teacher, we know that Bradley Torline always been in a bad way Catholic pastor would tell: you are a truthful man and and we could always use “Once there was young man who sought to become a that you teach the way of God in accordance with the another good person. And yet, I have definitely caught priest thinking, ‘Perhaps, I can save the world.’ He thought truth. And you are not concerned with anyone’s opinion, myself looking down at my tiny beautiful new daughter this he would climb to the highest ranks of the Church, fix her for you do not regard a person’s status.” year and wondering just what kind of world she will grow systems, and launch worldwide movements to renew entire Whether the Pharisees truly believe what they are say- up in. societies. But after being ordained he realized that he could ing or just trying to set Jesus up, these words are worth All of this had me pondering and praying — what are we not save the world unless he could first save his own diocese. pondering. The three things the Pharisees say about Jesus as Christians called to do in the face of all this? What am I So with joy he accepted his first assignment to the Curia and in these two sentences can serve as a kind of examination personally called to do? served under his Bishop for 20 years only to realize, in the of conscience for us. “You are worried and bothered about so many end, that he did not have the abilities to save his own dio- “Teacher, we know that you are a truthful man.” Are things; but only one thing is necessary.” (Luke 10:42) cese. He grew tired and was happy when the bishop reas- we truthful people? Before you answer, think, how many If you turned your phone or computer on at all during signed him to a small parish. He devoted himself with fervor times you tell “little white lies”? How many times do you 2020 you were probably immediately berated by a host of for another 20 years, thinking ‘I could not save my diocese, “stretch” the truth? Do you “spin” things? The fact that we political movements, causes and activists — each demanding but perhaps I can save this little parish.’ But as the years use these terms at all tells us that we know we are desper- your attention, focus and support. If you failed to respond, at passed, he realized that he could not save his little parish ately trying to find a way to excuse, and sometimes even once you were made to feel complicit in systematic evil, wor- either. In old age, humbled by many years of hard work, he justify, not telling the truth. thy of condemnation and exclusion, etc. etc. thought to himself ‘I cannot save this little parish, after all, What do we think Jesus thinks about lies, even ones But as the verse above reminds us, anxiety and hyper- but perhaps I can save myself.’ So he dedicated himself to that are “little” and “white”? (How can we even use the activity are antithetical to the Gospel. eradicating his bad habits and the wicked thoughts he held word “white” for something that comes from the Prince of I’m not saying that Catholics don’t have social and politi- secret in his heart. Darkness, the Father of Lies? To cover one untruth we use cal responsibilities. We do. They comprise what tradition (Continued on page 13) another.) And we know what happens when you stretch or spin something — it loses its form and is distorted. “Teacher, we know ... that you teach the way of God in accordance with the truth.” It is clear that our culture is Choose to respect life moving further and further away from what the Church October is Respect Life month and that’s had me thinking I am certainly not saying that anything goes. We choose knows to be the truth. Preachers and teachers, and even about a bumper sticker that said, “You Can’t be Both to accept certain things and we choose to reject others. For lay people in private conversations, have to face up to this Catholic and Pro-Choice.” example, we choose to reject sin, so as to live in the freedom — while it is not our place to judge people, we must speak I know what it means when people use those words “pro- of God’s children; we choose to reject the glamour of evil the truth to this culture that is so wrong about so many choice.” Simply put, people and refuse to be mastered by sin; we choose to reject Satan, things. There is not “your” truth and “my” truth, there is who are pro-choice believe the father of sin and prince of darkness. objective truth: there is right and wrong; marriage was that women have the right Of course we are pro-choice. created by God, and is a lifelong, faithful, exclusive, fruit- to decide when and whether One of the evils that we, as Catholics choose is to reject is ful union of one woman and one man; abortion is not to have children, based on the evil of abortion. health care for women; our bodies carry meaning, and her own moral and reli- Or, put another way, we choose to respect life. someone with male genitalia is male, and with female gen- gious beliefs. In the Star Wars movie “The Last Jedi,” a young freedom italia is female; there are only two genders — male and They advocate legalized fighter is pulling another soldier from the wreckage of his female, and it is not hate speech to say that; life continues abortion. ship and she tells him, “We’re going to win this war, not by beyond this world, and how we live here affects where we I wonder if abortion fighting what we hate, but by saving what we love!” will spend eternity; etc., etc. advocates chose that term And what we love, what we hold as sacred, what we “Teacher ... you are not concerned with anyone’s opin- (pro-choice) for themselves respect is life. ion, for you do not regard a person’s status.” How many deliberately so that the rest The pro-life movement is known for its efforts to save times have we said one thing to our co-workers, but some- of us would be thought of lives by overturning Roe v. Wade but it’s increasingly clear thing else to our boss? (How many times have we priests as “anti-choice.” (to me anyway) that the only lasting change will happen said one thing to our fellow priests and something else to While it’s true that I am when we change not only laws, but also hearts. That begins our bishop?) How many times have we not been honest Deacon Timothy Britt opposed to abortion, I don’t when we simply choose life and inspire others to do the about how we truly feel so that someone would like us, or think of myself as “anti- same. When all of us realize that life isn’t something to be not get mad at us? How many times have we put “keeping choice.” After all, my ability to choose, your ability to discarded because it is difficult, or inconvenient, or unex- the peace” above telling the truth? choose, what we call our free will, is one of the greatest gifts pected, or old or sick. It is so much greater, so much more We live in a culture that does not value objective truth given to us by God. Indeed, choice is more than something sacred than we realize. and real truth telling, and we must be careful not to allow we can do, it’s something we must do. To be Catholic is to “Respect life” is more than just a catchphrase. It needs to ourselves to conform to it. Thomas wrote of Christ: choose to believe in one God and to choose to be obedient to be a way of living. Choose to respect life, not just in the “Credo quidquid dixit Dei Filius;/ Nil hoc verbo Veritatis His holy will. Being Catholic is about choosing to be in a womb, but everywhere, at every time, in all circumstances. verius; “I believe whatever the Son of God said;/Nothing relationship with Jesus and to accept His teachings and Choosing to do that, moment by moment, we will begin to is truer than this word of Truth.” those of the Church. It’s about choosing to love not only our change the culture, and heart by heart, we will begin to We are followers of Jesus, and must be as committed to neighbors, but our enemies and to pray for those who perse- change the world. Truth and truthfulness as He. cute us. Deacon Timothy Britt is assigned to St. Mary Parish, Father Stephen Bankemper is pastor, St. Catherine of That’s why I say that to be Catholic is to be pro-choice. Alexandria, Ky. Siena Parish, Ft. Thomas, Ky. It is in what we choose that we are saved. 6 October 16, 2020 Messenger We Choose The elephant in the voting booth

Life Father Raymond Enzweiler are counter to the dignity of the person, the Contributor value of human life and the God given rights Can you think of anyone with whom you that allow us to choose God and God’s love. always agree? Someone whose decisions you But they are not all equal. Some, like abor- have never questioned, not even once? From tion, euthanasia and assisted suicide, end a per- Pro-Life our closest to remotest relationships, disagree- son’s life. They end the hope of tomorrow for ments occur. Even Jesus wasn’t spared. Recall the person killed. The person can no longer Office how Peter corrected Jesus just after proclaim- choose to respond to God and God’s gifts of of the Diocese of Covington ing he was the Messiah and Son of God? No love, grace and mercy. Nor is there any chance one can name a person with whom they’ve for others to help in Christian charity. Because always agreed. It could have been a small mat- these issues end life and all the future possibili- Mission Statement The Pro-Life Office of the Roman Catholic ter or something very important. Regardless, ties that life brings, they are most critical. And, Diocese of Covington, guided by our bishop, we need to find ways to move forward with among them, abortion has a preeminent prior- promotes the sanctity and legal protection of solutions that respect everyone involved. ity. human life from conception to natural death Such points of disagreement are important The number of lives ended by abortion is through prayer, pastoral care, public policy when choosing someone to represent us. For staggering. According to the most current data, and education. example, if you are naming your health care abortion ends the lives of over 2,000 unborn surrogate, someone who could make life and children every day in the United States. At the death medical decisions for you, you would current abortion rate in this country, there are want that person to represent you and your over 540,000 abortions in a nine-month period. beliefs well. You would want to know you can Since 1973, over 61 million children have been trust the decisions that person will make in The USCCB teaching document on political aborted in our country alone. None of those “Every child who, rather than your name. Issues like one’s position on sur- responsibility “Forming Consciences for Faithful children had the opportunity to live their lives gery, ventilators or artificial hydration and Citizenship” is available online at outside the womb, to know and love God as being born, is condemned nutrition are important. Would you choose www.usccb.org/resources/forming-consciences- God intended. someone to be your health care surrogate who faithful-citizenship-pdf. It is more than just the number of lives unjustly to being aborted, believes euthanasia is not only a right but an ended. It is ending the life of a child at the very obligation to society if you did not believe the same thing? Would you beginning of human life, when the person is most vulnerable and inno- bears the face of Jesus Christ, trust that person to make life and death decisions for you? cent. It has impacted countless women and men as well. And, it occurs The same is true with elected officials. Certain issues give us a sense of within the family, the building block of society. The family should be the bears the face of the Lord, how that person would respond in various other situations. They reveal center of safety and love and goodness. Abortion turns the family into a the person’s values and principles. Since they are given the authority to place of death. It is a reality so counter to what family means that it is who even before he was born, make decisions for us, we want to vote for someone who will support the undermining our very understanding of parent, child, family and society same values we hold. and destroying us in the process. and then just after birth, In an ideal situation, if we disagree with a candidate, we would dis- Does this mean the other issues counter to human dignity don’t mat- experienced the world’s As Catholics approach the polls, we are asked to weigh many important issues. The U.S. bishops rejection. And every elderly have reaffirmed that “the threat of abortion remains our preeminent priority because it person … even if he is ill or at directly attacks life itself, because it takes place within the sanctuary of the family, and because the end of his days, bears the of the number of lives destroyed.” While they did warn us not to “dismiss or ignore other face of Christ. They cannot be serious threats to human life and dignity such as racism, the environmental crisis, poverty and discarded, as the ‘culture of the death penalty,” they did give priority to upholding and defending our brothers’ and sisters’ waste’ suggests!” most basic right — to live. — Pope Francis — Excerpted from Priorities at the Polls by Most Rev. Joseph F. Naumann, chair of the USCCB Committee on Pro-Life Activities (www.respectlife.org)

“God’s love does not agree with that candidate on all major issues. But, it is far more likely we ter? Of course not. Indeed, part of the solution to ending abortion will find ourselves disagreeing only on some issues. How are we to pro- requires us to simultaneously respond to all the other social justice issues. differentiate between the ceed in such situations, especially knowing that often the general In fact, the Catholic Church has never taken a “one issue only” stance. assumption is that each vote is a “popular mandate” for everything the “Faithful Citizenship,” numbers 34-37, notes there may be times when, newly conceived infant still politician stands for. for other truly grave moral reasons, prudence dictates the best path Our bishops have given us some help with this dilemma in their doc- toward the human good means supporting a candidate who supports in his or her mother’s womb ument “Faithful Citizenship.” This document notes that our starting point abortion or other evils. It does not mean giving tacet approval to the evil is a well-formed conscience coupled with the virtue of prudence. The by remaining silent. It is incumbent upon us to make very clear we and the child or young person, conscience is more than opinions or feelings or what I think is best. It oppose the evil and work to overcome it. Such a decision is not easy. It uses our gift of reason to determine if an act is good — morally correct requires a well-formed conscience and prudence. It requires balancing or the adult and the elderly — according to the law God has written deep in our hearts. Through it, the lives of unborn children with no hope of tomorrow against those we can hear the voice of God guiding us to love, do good, and avoid evil. with the possibility of hope that tomorrow brings. person. God does not Prudence adds the ability to determine the best moral action to attain Our faith mandates we work to spread the Gospel and live Christ’s the good in a situation. The conscience determines if a particular act is command to love others as he did. Our votes, like our actions, should distinguish between them good. Prudence determines the best action when there are multiple pos- reflect that mandate. It requires courage, determination and sacrifice. The sible ways to attain that good. stakes are high. Together, we can overcome all social injustice. But we because he sees an impression Our conscience tells us we cannot support issues that are counter to cannot do it by ignoring the elephant in the room — the scourge of good such as abortion, euthanasia, assisted suicide, deliberately subject- abortion. of his own image and likeness ing workers or the poor to subhuman living conditions, redefining mar- Father Raymond Enzweiler is pastor, St. Thomas Parish, Ft. Thomas, Ky. riage in ways that violate its essential meaning, or racist behavior. They (Gn 1:26) in each one.”

— Pope Benedict XVI

For more information about the Pro-Life Office or to be added to our e-mail newsgroups, visit us online at www.covdio.org/prolife/ or call (859) 392-1500. Messenger October 16, 2020 7

Thomas More University’s in-person experience the experience for continues legacy of excellence anything. “Part of Allegra Thatcher the reason I chose Thomas More in Assistant Editor the first place was that I love the The 2020-2021 school year has certainly presented chal- way that the liberal arts are taught lenges for communities across the globe when social distanc- here,” he said. “I love how the pro- ing is required for everyone’s safety and sports games are fessors want to help you learn and mostly cancelled because of COVID-19. Yet at Thomas More how often classes are discussion- University, students and faculty are making sure authentic based experiences. Probably any- education still occurs, safely. one that chose Thomas More From an academic standpoint, a little more than 90 per- because of the liberal arts Catholic cent of students are either on campus in person or doing a education values that discussion- combination between in person and online courses. President based experienced and being able Joe Chillo said that since so much of the Catholic college to be in person with your professor experience happens in person, the students knew they want- or your peers because it’s a very ed to come back for instruction. different experience to look at Photo provided by Thomas More University “As we were planning for the fall back in April and May someone eye to eye and have a con- Students in the Thomas More Sports Medicine program learn safely in-person by social when we were in the thick of things, our students and their versation … it’s a lot easier to distancing and wearing masks. families overwhelmingly wanted this in-person experience,” understand someone face to face deeply appreciative and hard working. In some ways, when said President Chillo. “This fall we opened up with the sec- than in a chat room or discussion board.” ond-largest enrollment of the university, we had the third you don’t have that traditional school spirit through athletics, Numerically, the university has had 31 students in quaran- it’s coming out in other ways and I see the best of that coming largest freshman class coming in. So I think those things tine or isolation as of Oct. 1, and only seven of those quaran- speak to where the families and students were at in terms of out in our students and faculty.” tined on campus. Students who could go home have done so. “I think that these clubs are really trying to make sure coming back to campus.” Reduced capacity in student housing has given adequate He said the experience during March of transitioning 500 school spirit stays high and people stay involved, but I think space for quarantining and isolation when students display more than anything, school spirit right now is just collective- classes from entirely in-person to entirely online challenged symptoms. faculty, staff and students alike to greater innovation and ly trying to keep each other safe,” said Mr. Thompson. “That’s One of the biggest changes this year, President Chillo said, what we’re doing as a campus.” agility that is being carried over into the fall semester. was having to modify events based on social distancing “I think it gave our faculty and staff a taste and experience Another change, Mr. Thompson said, is a lack of student requirements laid out by the CDC, the governor’s office and presence in the work-study programs which normally of what this was going to look like and it became clear that local health officials. The events themselves get few and far our faculty would have to continue to engage our students in involved students working in Admissions or Student Life, for between, and the lesser numbers mean they “don’t really have example. He said many students don’t see the value in making that type of environment,” he said. the same feel as they’ve done in the past.” Thomas More is using larger spaces like halls for classes minimum wage for those types of jobs if they’re in harm’s Mr. Thompson said it’s been hard on students to not have way, so the jobs aren’t taking place this year. so that students can effectively distance. Smaller classrooms those social experiences on campus, and he’s not alone with have been turned into Zoom spaces. “It’s a loss for the university as well as the students being less likely to attend when things are scheduled — even because … there’s a close bond between administrators and “It was really an effective job by our registrar and our aca- with safe distancing. Students value being in the classroom demic leadership team in looking at space across campus and students and professors here, and I think a lot of that is facil- and, since the types of activities at events are so limited, stu- itated by student workers,” he said. how we could effectively transform that space to work in this dents don’t want to risk getting involved if they think it might environment,” said President Chillo. President Chillo sympathizes with the students, who not be worth it. Even Mr. Thompson, who used to attend many aren’t experiencing college in the way most have in the past. Michael Thompson, a senior at Thomas More studying events, is more skeptical, so he knows people who are more fine arts (painting) and creative writing, said his classes are “They want to have that university experience and right now introverted will certainly be less likely to attend. they’re getting that in a very modified way. … We’re going to all in-person except for his senior seminar, which is being con- School spirit has also been challenged by lack of live ducted with various professors over Zoom. have to continue to think through ways to engage our stu- sports games. While student athletes are practicing lightly dents and create the sense of community that Thomas More “From an art student’s perspective, it’s a lot more sterile right now, there have been no competitions to attend. The because usually we’re very hands-on people,” said Mr. is known for,” he said. school has participated in events like cross country meets, but He’s looking ahead to future school years with hope, how- Thompson. “If another student needs help, we’re right there sports like soccer and basketball have been pushed back. and are able to touch what they’re working on, show them ever, that some of the newly implemented practices will make Yet through it all, President Chillo said students have come the university experience even better. how to do it … often we’re collaborating. Because of COVID- together to combat the pandemic extremely well. “I’m watch- 19, that’s very difficult to do because we have to keep six-foot “I think the agility we’re creating here at the university is ing our students show resiliency, showing understanding and something we’re going to put into place for the spring and distance in the studio. We can’t share supplies … it’s much commitment to the policies that have been put in place to more of an individual work area than the collaborative we’re being mindful of the academic calendar and structure make sure we practice effective social distancing, and a good out the spring semester,” said President Chillo. shared experience that I’m used to.” healthy and safe environment,” he said. “Our students are Nevertheless, Mr. Thompson said he wouldn’t substitute

quake; after the True prayer leads to concrete acts of love earthquake, fire, but the Lord was not in Cindy Wooden Elijah was a contemplative, but at the same the fire; after the fire, Catholic News Service time he was concerned about what was happen- a light silent sound.” VATICAN CITY — Prayer isn’t about closing oneself in a ing around him, the pope said, pointing to the And that was where room with God “to put makeup on your soul — that’s not story in the First Book of Kings about Elijah con- God was. prayer, that’s fake praying; to pray is to face God and allow fronting Ahab about taking advantage of the plot “This happened yourself to be sent by him to help a brother or sister,” Pope Jezebel hatched to kill Naboth and appropriate to Elijah, but it Francis said. his land. seems like it was “The proving ground for prayer is concrete love for one’s Pope Francis said the world today needs written for each of neighbor,” the pope said Oct. 7 at his weekly general audience. “believers, zealous Christians,” who can stand up us,” the pope said. Pope Francis had begun a series of audience talks about to leaders with the courage of Elijah to say, “This “Some evenings we prayer in May but interrupted them for nine weeks to explain must not be done. This is an assassination.” might feel alone and the principles of Catholic social teaching and how their appli- Elijah “shows how there must not be a useless. That is when cation could heal a world suffering from the COVID-19 pan- dichotomy in the life of one who prays: you stand prayer comes and demic, inequality, violence, social tension and despair. before the Lord and go out to encounter the broth- CNS photo/Paul Haring knocks on the door of At the general audience, which was moved into the ers and sisters to whom he sends you,” the pope Pope Francis greets a pilgrim during his general our heart.” Vatican audience hall because of rain, the pope announced he said. audience in Paul VI hall at the Vatican Oct. 7, 2020. “Even if we made was returning to the catechesis on prayer by looking at Elijah, “Believers act in the world after first having some mistake or we feel threatened and afraid, turning to God the prophet long venerated by monks, nuns and hermits as “a been quiet and having prayed,” he said. “Otherwise, their in prayer, serenity and peace will return almost miraculous- model of prayer and unshakable faith amid trials.” action is impulsive; it is lacking discernment; it is breathless- ly,” the pope said. “This is what Elijah’s example teaches us.” In the life of Elijah, and for everyone else, too, he said, “in ly running without a goal. Believers who behave like that With the audience taking place on the feast of Our Lady of prayer, this always happens: moments of prayer that we feel commit many injustices because they did not go first to the the Rosary, Pope Francis urged Catholics to pray the rosary. lift us up, even enthuse us, and moments of prayer of suffer- Lord to pray, to discern what must be done.” “In her apparitions, Our Lady often exhorts us to recite the ing, aridity, trials.” The audience began with a reading of the story of the rosary, especially when confronted by threats darkening the “In the soul of one who prays,” he said, “the sense of one’s Lord telling a forlorn Elijah he would pass by. “There was a world,” the pope told Polish pilgrims. “Today, in this time of own weakness is more precious than moments of exaltation strong and violent wind rending the mountains and crushing pandemic, it is necessary to take the rosary in our hands and when it seems that life is just a string of victories and success- rocks before the Lord, but the Lord was not in the wind; after pray for ourselves, our loved ones and all men and women.” es.” the wind, an earthquake, but the Lord was not in the earth- 8 October 16, 2020 Messenger

Did you know? people in response to a spe- cific need. They usually address social concerns, and are considered counsel Papal documents rather than legislative doc- Pope Francis signed his latest encyclical “Fratelli Tutti,” uments. As pastoral com- on Fraternity and Social Friendship, Oct. 3 at the tomb of munications, they are usu- St. Francis in Assisi. What exactly is an encyclical and how ally less doctrinal. St. John does it differ from other papal documents? Paul II, for example, wrote an apostolic letter to those Encyclicals are papal letters, originally sent by bishops, responsible for communi- of a pastoral nature. They have been used in their current cations. form since 1740, and they offer counsel on particular exist- ing doctrine in the Church. Examples include “Humanae Apostolic exhortations, vitae,” written in 1968 by Pope Paul VI about the Church’s similarly to apostolic let- teaching on birth control, or Pope Francis’ “Laudato si’,” ters, are exhortations on a on the care of creation. particular topic or spiritual matter, but addressed to the Papal bulls are official declarations from the Holy whole Church, clergy and Father, adorned with a round lead seal and portraits of Sts. faithful. They also are not Peter and Paul and the name of the current pope. The considered legislative docu- Latin word for a round seal or medallion is bulla (literally, ments and do not contain “bubble”), so documents with this kind of seal became dogmatic definitions of known as papal bulls. St. John Paul II used one to CNS photo/ IPA/Sipa USA, Reuters policies. The form was first announce the Jubilee Year of 2000. Free copies of the Vatican newspaper L’Osservatore Romano with the front page about Pope Francis’ used by Pope Pius XII in encyclical, “Fratelli Tutti, on Fraternity and Social Friendship,” are distributed by volunteers to the 1939 and they are usually Apostolic constitutions are the most solemn papal faithful at the end of the Angelus in St. Peter’s Square at the Vatican Oct. 4, 2020. written after a special synod. Pope Benedict XVI documents, which address significant doctrinal or disci- cal universities and faculties. Past examples include wrote an apostolic exhortation, “Verbum Domini,” in plinary matters and are published as universal or particu- “Sacrosanctum Concilium,” the Constitution on the which he encouraged, the practice of lectio divina (prayer- lar law of the Church. Usually they involve the erection of Liturgy from Vatican II, and the Constitution on the ful reading of Scripture). Exhortations generally encour- a new diocese of changing norms governing church Catechism of the Catholic Church. age a particular virtue or mission, and are given on specif- schools or universities. Pope Francis has issued several, ic occasions. including one entitled “Veritatis Gaudium,” on ecclesiasti- Apostolic letters are addressed to a specific group of

Newsworthy Happy Birthday to Father David Gamm, retired, Nov. 4; Deacon Michael Lyman, St. Henry Parish, Elsmere, Nov. 4; and Father Eric Andriot, pastor, St. Anthony Parish, Taylor Mill, Nov. 13.

Partners through technology Praying together, safely apart Mrs. Finch’s first grade class at St. Henry School, Elsmere, had a small group project Third-grade students at Blessed Sacrament School, Ft. Mitchell, spend some quiet time in church where an in-school learner was partnered with an at-home learner. The students praying the rosary. communicated through technology and they had a great time learning together. Messenger October 16, 2020 9

Pope Francis’ teaching in new encyclical called ‘profound and beautiful’

Catholic News Service our culture and to serve our neighbors in love,” he said, “see- penalty. The pope reiterated how St. John Paul II had VATICAN CITY — Bringing the Vatican official in charge ing Jesus Christ in every person, and seeking a society of jus- described the death penalty as “inadequate from a moral of translations with him, Pope Francis signed his new standpoint and no longer necessary from that of penal jus- encyclical, “Fratelli Tutti, on Fraternity and Social tice,” but then went further by adding: “There can be no Friendship,” at the tomb of St. Francis of Assisi, source of stepping back from this position. Today we state clearly the document’s title and inspiration. After celebrating that ‘the death penalty is inadmissible,’” he wrote, quoting Mass at St. Francis’ tomb Oct. 3, the eve of the saint’s feast from the revised Catechism of the Catholic Church, and day, the pope called up Msgr. Paolo Braida and explained to adding: “The Church is firmly committed to calling for its the small congregation that the monsignor is in charge of abolition worldwide.” “translations and the speeches of the pope” in the Vatican Sister Helen Prejean, a Sister of St. Joseph of Medaille Secretariat of State. and longtime anti-death penalty activist, said in a tweet “He watches over everything and that’s why I wanted Oct. 4 that she was pleased with the pope’s “ringing procla- him to be here today,” the pope said. He also brought with mation of the inviolable dignity of all human life, even the him the Spanish official who oversaw the accuracy of the life of murderers.” She also said she was “heartened by various translations and the official who translated the text the Church’s unequivocal opposition to governments’ use from Spanish into of the death penalty in all instances.” Portuguese. Pope Francis Pope Francis’ social encyclical sees the need for human set the text on the altar fraternity as more than just an abstract concept, but as a under the tomb of St. concrete path toward peaceful coexistence in a world Francis and signed it. The fraught by war, said Cardinal Pietro Parolin. At the encyclical was scheduled to Vatican’s presentation of the encyclical, Cardinal be released to the public Parolin, Vatican secretary of state, said the docu- Oct. 4 just after midday. ment shows that “fraternity is not a trend or a fash- The pope had been ion which develops over time or at a particular time, rumored to be writing an but rather is the result of concrete acts.” “In fact, if encyclical on nonviolence; weapons — and with them, wars — destroy human and, once the COVID-19 pan- lives, the environment and hope to the point of extin- demic struck, many expect- guishing the future of people and communities,” he ed a document exploring in said, “dialogue destroys the barriers in the heart and depth his repeated pleas for mind, opens up spaces for forgiveness, and promotes the world to recognize the reconciliation.” inequalities and injustices Joining Cardinal Parolin to present the encycli- laid bare by the pandemic cal were: Cardinal Miguel Angel Ayuso, president of and adopt corrective eco- the Pontifical Council for Interreligious Dialogue; nomic, political and social Judge Mohamed Mahmoud Abdel Salam, secretary policies. “Fratelli Tutti” combines those two elements in the tice and mercy, compassion and mutual concern.” general of the Higher Committee of Human Fraternity; Anna framework set by the document on human fraternity and What might seem to some to be disparate issues, “Pope Rowlands, professor of Catholic social thought and practice at interreligious dialogue that he and Sheikh Ahmad el-Tayeb, Francis really provides us an alternative way of looking at the University of Durham, England; and Andrea Riccardi, grand imam of al-Azhar Mosque in Cairo, Egypt, signed in our life, and something new can emerge at this moment,” said founder of the Community of Sant’Egidio. 2019. a member of a panel discussing the encyclical Oct. 5. Pope The pre-publication controversy over the title of Pope Professing faith in God as the creator of all human beings, Francis wants Catholics to determine “where our real loyalty Francis’ new encyclical illustrates how the Catholic Church or even simply recognizing that all people possess an inherent is, where our commitment is, where we are in relation to the itself needs to engage in dialogue and listening, just like soci- dignity, has concrete consequences for how people should throwaway people,” said Franciscan Sister Nancy Schreck, ety does, said a theologian invited by the Vatican to help pres- treat one another and make decisions in politics, economics who is program director of Excel Inc. in Okolona, ent the document. and social life, Pope Francis wrote. “Human beings have the Mississippi, which has a predominantly poor, rural and Anna Rowlands told Catholic News Service, “We live in a same inviolable dignity in every age of history and no one can minority population. “Pope Francis’ words give me lots of world that is still structured by gender inequality, and the consider himself or herself authorized by particular situa- encouragement for my ministry here,” she added. Church has to wrestle with that as much as the world has to tions to deny this conviction or to act against it,” the pope Pope Francis’ new social encyclical offers a vision for the wrestle with it.” The Vatican chose Rowlands and four men to wrote in his encyclical, “Fratelli Tutti, on Fraternity and world of dignity for every person around the world and pro- present the document at a conference the same day. The Social Friendship.” motes a call to “build a new culture of fraternity and dia- phrase “fratelli tutti” is taken from St. Francis of Assisi’s In “Fratelli Tutti,” Pope Francis reminds the faithful that logue,” said the president of the Australian Catholic Bishops’ “sixth admonition” to the friars, all of whom were men. In “God’s plan for humanity has implications for every aspect of Conference. The document “is not just for believers but for the Italian, “fratelli” means “brothers” or “brothers and sisters” our lives,” said the president of the U.S. Conference of entire human family,” Archbishop Mark Coleridge of since, like with many Romance languages, the masculine Catholic Bishops. These aspects range “from how we treat one Brisbane said in a statement released as the encyclical form of nouns is traditionally used when referring to males another in our personal relationships, to how we organize became public. Explaining that in his 2015 encyclical, and females collectively. Rowlands said the text itself makes it and operate our societies and economies,” said Archbishop “Laudato Si’, on Care for Our Common Home,” the pope clear that the pope was speaking to all men and women. José H. Gomez of Los Angeles in a statement Oct. 4. spoke of caring for creation, the new teaching document Calling all people of goodwill to care for one another as He called the pope’s teaching “profound and beautiful,” “speaks of care for each other, the family that dwells together brothers and sisters, Pope Francis urged people not to despair and said that “like ‘Laudato Si’’ before it, ‘Fratelli Tutti’ is an in the common home,” the archbishop said. The archbishop’s of making the world a better place, but to start creating the important contribution to the Church’s rich tradition of views on the encyclical were echoed around the world as reac- world they want through personal action and political lobby- social doctrine. In analyzing conditions in the world today, the tion to it focused on how humanity must value the lives of ing. Holy Father provides us with a powerful and urgent vision for each human being in order to achieve peace and allow for the “A worldwide tragedy like the COVID-19 pandemic the moral renewal of politics and political and economic development of communities that are often left on the mar- momentarily revived the sense that we are a global communi- institutions from the local level to the global level, calling us gins of society. ty, all in the same boat, where one person’s problems are the to build a common future that truly serves the good of the Pope Francis tackled several issues in his new encyclical, problems of all,” the pope said. “Once more we realized that human person,” Archbishop Gomez said. “For the Church, but the section devoted to ending capital punishment was par- no one is saved alone; we can only be saved together.” the pope is challenging us to overcome the individualism in ticularly cheered by U.S. Catholics who oppose the death For a related story, see “Did you know?” on page 8.

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Beatified teen showed that heaven is ‘attainable goal,’ cardinal says Junno Arocho Esteves In his homily, Cardinal Catholic News Service Vallini said that Acutis’ ASSISI, Italy — Thousands beatification “in the land of sang and applauded as Italian Francis of Assisi is good teen Carlo Acutis was beatified news, a strong proclama- in a town dear to him and to tion that a young man of many Christians around the our time, one like many, world: Assisi. was conquered by Christ During the Oct. 10 beatifica- and became a beacon of tion Mass, Italian Cardinal light for those who want to Agostino Vallini, the papal know him and follow his legate for the Basilicas of St. example.” Francis and St. Mary of the Reflecting on the teen’s Angels in Assisi, read Pope life, Cardinal Vallini said Francis’ apostolic letter pro- that like most young peo- claiming Acutis’ “blessed,” the ple his age, Carlo was a step before canonization. “normal, simple, sponta- “With our apostolic authori- neous, friendly” teenager ty, we grant that the venerable who used modern forms of servant of God, Carlo Acutis, communication to trans- layman, who, with the enthusi- mit the “values and beauty asm of youth, cultivated a of the Gospel.” friendship with our Lord Jesus, For him, “the internet placing the Eucharist and the was not just a means of witness of charity at the center escape, but a space for dia- of his life, henceforth shall be logue, knowledge, sharing called blessed,” the pope and mutual respect that decreed. was to be used responsibly, After the reading of the without becoming slaves to apostolic letter, the newly beati- it and rejecting digital bul- fied teen’s parents, Andrea lying,” the cardinal said. Acutis and Antonia Salzano, Cardinal Vallini said processed toward the altar car- that Blessed Acutis was a rying a reliquary containing CNS photo/Paul Haring model of virtue for young their son’s heart. The body of Carlo Acutis, who died in 2006, is pictured at the Church of Santa Maria Maggiore in Assisi, Italy, men and women today, The reliquary was engraved Oct. 3, 2020. The Italian teen, who had a great love for the Eucharist, was beatified Oct. 10 in Assisi. reminding them not to with one of the teen’s well- seek “gratification only in known quotes: “The Eucharist is my highway to heaven.” friends with the poor, brought him closer to the spirituali- ephemeral successes but in the perennial values that Jesus Pilgrims flocked both to the Basilica of St. Francis for ty of the Poor One,” St. Francis, Archbishop Sorrentino proposes in the Gospel.” the beatification Mass as well as to the Shrine of the said at the end of Mass. “Both invite us to live according to “He gave witness that faith does not distance us from Renunciation at the Church of St. Mary Major, where the the Gospel.” life but immerses us more deeply in it and showed us the newly beatified teen’s remains were on display for venera- The liturgy was held inside the Basilica of St. Francis, concrete way to live the joy of the Gospel,” the cardinal tion. but measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19 meant said. “It is up to us to follow it, attracted by the fascinating Men and women, boys and girls passed by the tomb qui- that most of those attending sat outside on seats set three- experience of Blessed Carlo, so that our lives may also etly, some stopping to pray the “Our Father.” A young tod- feet apart, watching on big screens. shine with light and hope.” dler blew a kiss goodbye to the young blessed as she passed Many young men and women came to Assisi for the by. beatification. For many of Known as the site where a young St. Francis renounced them, the fact that a nor- his father’s inheritance and embraced poverty, the shrine mal teen could be beatified — like the city of Assisi and St. Francis himself — held a was a source of hope and special place in Acutis’ heart. inspiration. The teen loved St. Francis “very much,” his mother, “With his life, Carlo Antonia Salzano, told Catholic News Service Oct. 9. St. made me see that despite Francis “was a very Eucharistic soul who used to attend the small or even great dif- Mass twice a day,” and her son sought to imitate that same ficulties — like his illness Eucharistic devotion throughout his brief life. — that we could live a full Archbishop Domenico Sorrentino of Assisi reflected on and happy life if we keep the link between the two saintly figures, and proclaimed our eyes looking up toward that by “providential design, (St.) Francis and (Blessed) heaven,” said 19-year-old Carlo are now inseparable.” Rosanna, who was among “Carlo’s life — always united to Jesus — his love for the those attending the beatifi- Eucharist, his devotion to the Holy Virgin, his making cation.

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Obituary Obituary

Academy for 15 years. There she Sister Catherine Marie just three Notre Dame Sister Mary was moderator of the student of the Immaculate days before Kevan Seibert was born council. Sister also ministered in Heart, O.P. Dominican her 102nd into the loving family of community leadership as the Sister Catherine Marie of birthday, in William and Anna Seibert Director of Formation and the Immaculate Heart her 58th year on Dec. 25, 1935, in Assistant Provincial. She served (Thelma Brinkman) was in the Cincinnati, Ohio. Mary on the boards of several SND- born on Sept. 20, 1918 in Dominican Ann was the fifth child of sponsored ministries and local Covington, to George and monastic life. seven children and the boards as well. In 1988, Sister Theresa Brinkman. She She was only girl. She character- became Chancellor of the newly was the oldest of seven sib- always joyful ized her childhood as very established Diocese of Lexington, lings and was a member of and a true happy and blessed. The a position she held for 11 years. St. Henry Church, blessing to family lived in Ft. Later she ministered at St. Joseph Elsmere. She delayed her everyone she Thomas, Kentucky. She Catholic Parish, Camp Springs, as entrance to the convent to met. attended St. Thomas parish life collaborator and help her parents and fami- She is sur- School, Ft. Thomas and administrator for eight years. ly, working as an office vived by her Notre Dame Academy. After over 57 years of religious clerk at Shillito’s in down- two sisters, Shortly after graduating, and educational ministry, Sister town Cincinnati, Ohio. Mary (late she entered the Sisters of retired to Lourdes Hall. There she She loved traveling with Richard) Notre Dame, where she Sister Mary Kevan Seibert , enjoyed reading, listening to friends. On one of her trips Kramer and made her profession of S.N.D. music and corresponding with she saw Brother Andre Sister Catherine Marie of Ruth (Tom) vows on August 20, 1956. family and friends. Her love of family, especially Bessette (now St. Andre the Immaculate Heart, O.P. Scheper and Sister Mary Kevan continued her education her brothers, was immense. Sister Mary Kevan Bessette). As he walked many nieces at Villa Madonna College (Thomas More went home to God peacefully Oct. 3. Sister is pre- passed her, he pointed to her and and nephews. She was predeceased by University) and later became a graduate of ceded in death by her parents and her brothers prophesied, “You will become a reli- her sister, Vera (John) Oberschlake Theological Studies at Providence College, William Seibert and Edward, Robert and gious.” and her three brothers, George (late Rhode Island. She also studied at Regina Mundi, Thomas Ruberg. She is survived by her dear Sister Catherine Marie made her Vera) Brinkman, Paul (late Wanda) Rome, Italy. brothers Ronald and Donald Seibert and many solemn vows with the cloistered Brinkman and Joe Brinkman. Sister Mary Kevan felt especially honored to beloved nieces and nephews. Dominican Nuns of the Perpetual A memorial Mass was held Oct. 7 at be educated in theology because it gave her the Due to the current health-care restrictions Adoration at the Monastery of the St. Henry Church, Elsmere. direct opportunity to make Christ known to on gatherings, a private Catholic Mass took Holy Name in Cincinnati. She later Memorials are suggested to: those she taught and worked with. This inspired place at St. Joseph Heights chapel, followed by relocated to the Monastery of Our Dominican Nuns c/o Sts. Peter and Sister Mary Kevan as she ministered as a burial in the convent cemetery. A celebration of Lady of the Rosary in Buffalo, New Paul Retreat Center, 2734 Seminary teacher at several elementary schools in the dio- Sister Mary Kevan’s life will be held for family York. Rd. SE, Newark, OH 43056-9339. ceses of Covington and Cincinnati. and friends at a later date. Memorials are sug- Sister died peacefully on Sept. 17, She went on to teach religion at Notre Dame gested to the Sisters of Notre Dame, Covington.

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‘Only one thing is necessary’ know how to help them, and even though we cannot solve we have failed and everything we have will come to nothing. (Continued from page 5) our own problems. But if we concentrate on holiness first and foremost, above Here is the truth: We cannot save the world. We cannot all else, then we will accomplish more than we ever imag- “On his deathbed he realized that he could not even do save our community. We cannot save our family. We cannot ined in our lifetime because it will not be us doing the this. He could not save even himself ! And he was able to sim- even save ourselves — only Christ can. The sooner we real- accomplishing — but Christ in and through us. As He prom- ply offer himself over to the Lord.” ize this the better. ised us, “Seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, We have a tendency of going about things backwards, Scripture says that all of creation is groaning for the rev- and all these things will be given you besides.” (Matt 6:33) don’t we? In youthful zeal we think we can fix and rework elation of the sons of God. (Romans 8:22) Translation: The Brad Torline is associate director for the Office of entire systems. We think we could run the entire world bet- only true way to help the world is to become a saint. Catechesis and Evangelization, Diocese of Covington, Ky. ter if only we were in charge. We think we can save the If we fill our life with activism but do not become a saint, world even though our families are a mess and we don’t

FULL-TIME CAFETERIA ASSISTANT SUPERINTENDENT OF MANAGERS CATHOLIC SCHOOLS Holy Family Elementary School and Prince of The Roman Catholic Diocese of Covington, KY Peace Elementary School have an immediate (www.covdio.org) is seeking qualified candidates need for a full-time cafeteria manager. The for the position of Assistant Superintendent of manager’s primary responsibilities involve overall Catholic Schools. The Assistant Superintendent is supervision of the respective school’s program; responsible for collecting and aggregating statistical managing employees of the program; ordering, data for each school i.e. test scores, student receiving, and managing inventory; preparing and information, faculty and staff information, tuition serving meals; operating a point-of-sale system; and fees, attendance, calendar, etc. The Assistant and interacting with school staff, students, and Superintendent helps with the educational adminis- their parents. Interested individuals can contact tration of the Alliance for Catholic Urban Education Jackie Kaiser at [email protected], or call (ACUE) schools, and facilitates government her at 859/392-1536. programs/funding, curriculum and assessment, professional development, and school communication. Overall, the position encounters a wide diversity of work situations and involves a high degree of complexity with responsibility for advising and decision making in many areas. Candidates must be practicing Roman Catholics in good standing, able and willing to give witness to the Catholic faith at all times, with a Master’s degree in Education/ Administration and previous experience in school administrative leadership. Interested individuals should submit a letter of interest along with a comprehensive resume or C-V, recent Baptismal certificate indicating sacramental preparation, and a list of at least five professional references to Stephen Koplyay, SPHR: [email protected], FAX 859/392-1589, or mail to 1125 Madison Avenue, Covington, KY 41011-3115. EOE

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not come into question. Sen. Todd Young, R-Indiana, also point- Drug Administration rule requiring in-person visits to a hospi- New statue honors Mother Cabrini for ed out that in his state: “Faith is seen as an asset in public tal or clinic to pick up these pills. The requirements were sus- service.” In her remarks, Barrett said she was “honored and pended by a federal district court judge this summer due to the devotion to immigrants, children, poor humbled” to be nominated to the Supreme Court. She spoke of pandemic. The high court ordered that the federal judge in her husband, their seven children, her siblings and her par- Maryland who made the ruling on the drug’s distribution to NEW YORK — A statue of St. Frances Xavier Cabrini, the ents. She mentioned the “the devoted teachers at St. Mary’s “promptly consider” within 40 days whether this ruling should patron of immigrants, now stands overlooking the New York Dominican,” the girls high school she attended in New Orleans, be withdrawn or amended. The FDA, in August, had asked the Harbor and the Statue of Liberty. Unveiled during a dedication and she also mentioned that if she were confirmed, she would Supreme Court to block the district court’s order while it ceremony in Battery Park City on Columbus Day, Oct. 12, the be the only justice on the bench not from Harvard or Yale but appealed it. The drug in question, Mifeprex, is the brand name statue honors Mother Cabrini, as she is best known. She is the University of Notre Dame. for mifepristone, also called RU-486, which is used to end preg- revered for not only her devotion to immigrants but also to nancies during the first 10 weeks. FDA regulations have children and the destitute. The sculpture, designed by Jill and required patients to receive the drug in person after signing a Giancarlo Biagi, shows the saint “in motion and taking care of Bishop says diocese not deterred by form acknowledging risks associated with it. Catholic Church children” and it “does her justice,” Brooklyn Bishop Nicholas leaders have been vocal in their opposition to this drug since it DiMarzio said in his remarks at the ceremony. “I know for the ruling against temporary stay was given FDA approval in 2000 and in 2016 when the FDA artists it was a work of passion. We hope that people who visit BROOKLYN, N.Y. — Brooklyn Bishop Nicholas DiMarzio relaxed rules for its use, saying it could be administered with this memorial will recognize that history should be repeated, said Oct. 10 that a federal judge’s denial of its motion for a tem- fewer visits to a doctor. that there was a care for the outcast and marginalized which porary restraining order against the state’s new COVID-19

Mother Cabrini understood, and we need that same care today. restrictions on houses of worship “is only the beginning of the This is not just history, we want to make history with a new case, and we expect ultimately to prevail.” He called the initial Hurricane Delta deals fresh blow to understanding of how we take care of people.” Others at the ruling issued late Oct. 9 “a sad day for our church community,” dedication ceremony included New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo but “it will not deter us from our faith. We are seeking what is hard-hit Louisiana dioceses and fellow members of the Mother Cabrini Memorial just.” The Diocese of Brooklyn filed a lawsuit in federal court WASHINGTON — Hurricane Delta deluged much of Commission. “This statue of Mother Cabrini recognizes both Oct. 8 against the state of New York, charging that Gov. Louisiana with rain— as much as 15 inches reported in some her contributions as an Italian immigrant woman, as well as Andrew Cuomo’s new executive order reducing church capaci- areas— with damage tallies and estimates yet to be completed those of all Italian American and immigrant women,” John ty violates the First Amendment’s guarantee of the free exer- in the days following the storm’s Oct. 9 landfall. In Lake Leo Heyer II, a commission member, said at the ceremony. cise of religion. It sought a temporary stop on Cuomo’s new Charles, one of the hardest-hit areas, churches and schools that orders while the suit proceeds. In the ruling, Judge Eric had been damaged by Hurricane Laura in late August took a Supreme Court confirmation hearings Komitee of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of fresh beating. More than half of the diocese’s 39 churches had New York said that “the government is afforded wide latitude tarps on their roofs after Laura, according to Father Ruben highlight health care, religion in managing the spread of deadly diseases under the Supreme Buller, vicar general, and most of those tarps blew off during Court’s precedent. On its face, the executive order applies dif- Delta, soaking those churches anew. Father Buller told WASHINGTON — The Oct. 12 start of the Senate Judiciary ferently to religious exercise: It regulates houses of worship Catholic News Service that he estimated recovery efforts for Committee confirmation hearings for Supreme Court nominee explicitly, and applies a capacity limit unique to them,” he said, those churches hit by both Laura and Delta have been set back Judge Amy Coney Barrett had two distinct focuses. Democratic and entities “deemed essential businesses” seem to be “treated by three weeks. In the meantime, the diocese’s six Catholic senators homed in on concern that Barrett’s confirmation better than religious institutions in the ‘red zone.’” schools were to stay closed the week of Oct. 12 to allow for would lead to a vote to potentially overturn the Affordable Care extensive inspections for damage. In a way, though, “we were Act when the legislation comes before the nation’s high court very blessed,” said Father Buller, who doubles as “director of in November. Republican senators emphasized the nominee’s Supreme Court does not reinstate recovery” for the diocese, as “many of our parishes that did qualifications for the role and stressed that her Catholic faith, not receive damage the first time did not sustain damage” from which was raised in her 2017 questioning before a Senate com- abortion drug restrictions Delta. Bishop Glen J. Provost of Lake Charles and Father mittee for her federal judiciary nomination, shouldn’t be an WASHINGTON — The U.S. Supreme Court is temporarily Buller did not evacuate, nor did most of the diocese’s priests, issue in the current proceedings. Indiana senators who intro- allowing drugs used to medically induce abortions to be mailed Father Buller said. So many people heeded an evacuation order duced Barrett, remotely, to the committee near the end of the or delivered without requiring the recipient to make a doctor’s issued in advance of the hurricane, said diocesan spokes- five hours of discussion about her, highlighted Barrett’s judi- visit during the coronavirus pandemic. In an unsigned order woman Pamela Seal, that traffic on the highway leading to cial talents and also emphasized that her Catholic faith should Oct. 8, the nation’s high court rejected an emergency appeal from the Trump administration to reinstate a U.S. Food and Houston, which ordinarily takes two-and-a-half hours, took 10 hours instead. “The interstate was a parking lot,” Seal said.

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