ISSN: 0029-7739 $ 1.00 per copy THE BSERVER OOfficial Newspaper of the Catholic Diocese of Rockford Volume 83 | No. 2 http://observer.rockforddiocese.org FRIDAY DECEMBER 1, 2017

Inside Worth the Wait Our annual family guide through Advent to Christmas begins in this issue. Advent Invites Us to Celebrate the Immaculate Conquer Vice with Virtue Conception Dec. 8 Father John McNamara offers page 5 inspiration to start Advent. page 4 Honor Our Lady of Bless Your Advent Wreath Guadalupe Dec. 12 page 4 page 5 (CNS photo/Lisa Johnston, St Louis Review) (Observer file photo)

Official Appointments Annual Great Lakes Rev. Adrian O. Ladines, SSS — with the permission of the Provin- cial Superior and by appointment of the Most Reverend Diocesan , to be Parochial Vicar at St. Catholic Men’s Rita Parish, Rockford, Illinois, effec- tive Dec. 1, 2017 Given at the Chancery, Nov. 21, 2017 Conference Draws Quick News Hundreds to DeKalb Bishop David Malloy (left photo, second from right) offers Mass at the 23rd annual Great Lakes Catholic Men’s Conference, held Nov. 18 in the Duke Ellington Ballroom at Northern Illinois University in DeKalb. Speakers this year were Chris Horn, a former NFL player; Gus Lloyd of the Catholic Channel (CNS photo/Max Rossi) on Sirius Satellite Pope’s Tree in Place Radio; Francisco (Paco) Gavrilides, a Homiletics The Christmas tree is (Observer photos/Kevin McCarthy) Instructor at Sacred positioned in St. Peter’s Heart Major Seminary Square at the Vatican Nov. in Detroit, Mich.; and 23. This year’s tree is from Bob Fishman Poland. from the Cathedral of St. Helena in Helena, Mont., a Jewish convert Coming Soon to the Catholic faith. Chicago singer Wayne Messmer again was Faith Forward Update master of ceremonies. As big-city parishes continue In addition to Mass and to consider the implications speakers, Father Keith of the diocesan school study, Romke (left, above), other parishes learn what the diocesan vocations findings mean for them. director, blessed young men who expressed an interest This Issue in the priesthood. Bishop Malloy ...... 2 Headliners...... 3 Worth the Wait ...... 4-5 Around the Diocese ...... 6 Early Bird Sign-Up Ending for 2018 March for Life Trip Nation/World ...... 7 Seasoned Observer ...... 8 ROCKFORD—Early bird registra- ister now. Cost for participating varies. Parish Our Catholic View ...... 9 tion with reduced prices closes Dec. 1 General registration ends Dec. 11. and school groups who sign up early For the Record ...... 10 for parish groups interested in taking The diocesan Life and Family Evan- will get a $310 rate per person; $335 per Media/Arts ...... 10-11 part in the Diocese of Rockford March gelization Office sponsors the annual person after Dec. 1. for Life pilgrimage, Jan. 17-21, may reg- bus trip for adults and youth. Continued on page 12 Diocesan ...... 12 2 | FRIDAY DECEMBER 1, 2017 | The Observer Advent Reminds Us Christmas is Worth Wait his weekend we will to judge the living and the dead. frustrating and pointless. The Observer (ISSN 0029- celebrate the fi rst It is natural then, that one of Our impatience is encouraged 7739), is published weekly, except fi ve times a year by Sunday of Advent. In the great overarching themes of by our age of technology. One the Diocese of Rockford, the Church, with the Advent is that of waiting. We are of the constant selling points for 555 Colman Center Dr., P.O. Tarrival of Advent we begin a new waiting for Christmas and for the computers or smart phones is, we Box 7044, Rockford, IL 61125 liturgical year. Second Coming. can get one that will be faster. It Phone: 815/399-4300; Fax In doing so, at Mass both on We do well to understand will make us wait less. 815/399-6225. Sundays and during the week, Periodical postage paid at BY BISHOP that our life in this world has a Our impatience that is so we move into a diff erent set of trajectory. It has a meaning to be encouraged by modern society Rockford, Ill., and additional DAVID J. mail offi ces. MALLOY readings from last year. That played out through waiting, over is made to be a further challenge helps us to be reminded of time and going forward as we by our secularized world. The POSTMASTER: send address diff erent lessons of faith and to grow and age. eff ort to distance us from God, to changes to The Observer, 555 reacquaint ourselves with the Colman Center Dr., P.O. Box t means Every moment, every thought silence talk of Jesus, His coming 7044, Rockford, IL 61125 that every whole of the Bible. and every action of ours is played and the life to come creates a I For ADVERTISING information: Most particularly, Advent is a out against the backdrop of Jesus doubt. moment of Contact The Observer at the season of preparation. We prepare not only having come once and It constantly suggests that our life presents address above or call 815/399- once more for the celebration died for us, but of His coming waiting in faith is useless because 4300; fax 815/399-6225, to us a of Christmas. On the day of again on high. the promise of heaven is not real. Email: kmccarthy@ constant His birth, Jesus the Son of God It means that every moment We must resist the pressure rockforddiocese.org. question, visibly entered into our world. of life presents to us a constant to doubt that our waiting has Send NEWS information to The He thus began the fi nal stage question, “Will I be ready?” any purpose at all. We need Observer at the address or fax “Will I be of God’s plan to renew the world We should not underestimate constantly to off er to Christ the number above; send email to ready?” and off er us redemption from the the challenge we face to be those joys and the sacrifi ces of waiting Observer@rockforddiocese. org; or fi ll out a form at disastrous sin of Adam and Eve. who wait attentively for our Lord. during this life. http://observer.rockforddiocese. The Church also uses Advent Waiting, especially in modern We must remind ourselves and org/contact-us. to strengthen our faith in society goes against our natural our family members and friends Subscription rate $28.00 per preparation for the second inclination. Who likes to go to that, silently but relentlessly, year (48 issues); Canadian coming of Jesus. Just as truly the bank and stand in line in Jesus uses this time of waiting and Pan American $29; other as Jesus came 2,000 years ago, order to be helped? to transform our hearts. If we foreign: surface mail $37, air being born poor in a stable in How about putting up with how are faithful in this life, we are mail $97; single copies $1. Bethlehem, He will come again at long it takes to check out in the continuously being prepared in The Observer Online digital the end of the world. midst of a lineup at the grocery hope for what we are waiting for. subscriptions are also available. He will come once more store or, in these days, at the Thank God, truly, for the Publisher: visibly, but now He will be seen mall? season of Advent and its annual Most Reverend David J. Malloy in His full power, majesty and How about waiting in our cars reminder. We are waiting, but it is Editor: Penny Wiegert glory. And as we pray in the during the morning and afternoon with a purpose and it is worth the News Editor: Amanda Hudson Creed each Sunday, He will come rush hours? It all seems so wait. Jesus will make sure of that. Features and Multimedia Editor: Sharon Boehlefeld Circulation/Proofreading: Susan Sabrowski, Keith Mass is the Most Perfect Prayer Ludolph Accounting: Jill Bonk From the General Audience, Nov. 15 being. Remember what I said last Advertising and Marketing: When Moses, before the week: we are not going to a Kevin McCarthy We are continuing with the burning bush, receives God’s call, spectacle, we are going to Production and Web catecheses on the holy Mass. he asks Him His name. And how the encounter with the Lord, Administrator: Gary Haughton To illustrate the beauty of the does God respond? and silence prepares us and Contributing Writers: Father eucharistic celebration, I would “I am who I am” (Ex 3:14). accompanies us. Pausing in Kenneth Wasilewski, Father (CNS photo/C. Peri via Reuters) Peri photo/C. (CNS like to begin with a very simple This expression, in its original silence with Jesus. Keith Romke, Keith Ludolph, BY POPE aspect: Mass is prayer. sense, expresses presence and From this mysterious silence Lynne Conner, Father Ronald FR ANCIS Rather, it is prayer par favor, and indeed, immediately of God springs His Word, which Rolheiser, Tony Carton, Pat Szpekowski, Margarita excellence, the loftiest, the most afterwards God adds: “the Lord, resonates in our heart. Jesus sublime, and at the same time Mendoza, Louise Brass, Patrick his the God of your fathers, the God Himself teaches us how it is truly Winn indeed is the most “concrete.” In fact it of Abraham, of Isaac, and of possible to “be” with the Father T Publication Dates: Weekly is the loving encounter with Jacob” (see v. 15). and He shows us this with His the greatest except that in 2017 there will be God through His Word and the Thus, when Christ calls His prayer. grace: being Body and Blood of Jesus. It is an no issues on Jan. 6, March 31, disciples, He, too, calls them so The Gospels show us Jesus who June 30, Sept. 29 and Dec. 29. able to feel encounter with the Lord. that they may be with Him. withdraws to secluded places But fi rst we must answer a News Deadlines: Usually, 10 that the This indeed is the greatest to pray; seeing His intimate days before publication date. question. What truly is prayer? grace: being able to feel that relationship with God, the Mass, the Ad Deadlines: Usually, 10 It is fi rst of all a dialogue, a the Mass, the Eucharist, is the disciples feel the desire to be able Eucharist, days before publication date. personal relationship with God. privileged moment to be with to take part in it, and they ask is the Man was created as a being in Jesus and, through Him, with Him: “Lord, teach us to pray” Offi cial information on the poli- privileged a personal relationship with God and with brothers and (Lk 11:1). cies, activities, and positions God who fi nds his complete of the Diocese of Rockford is moment sisters. We heard it in the fi rst reading, released only in the pages of to be with fulfi llment only in the encounter Praying, as every true dialogue, at the beginning of the (Nov. 15) The Observer, or in state- with his Creator. is also knowing how to be in audience. ments from the Diocesan Jesus and, The path of life leads toward the silence — in dialogues there are Jesus responds that the fi rst Offi ce of Communications and Publications. through defi nitive encounter with the Lord. moments of silence — in silence thing necessary for prayer is him, The Book of Genesis states that together with Jesus. being able to say “Father.” The Observer uses recycled paper and is recyclable. with God man was created in the image When we go to Mass, perhaps Let us take heed: if I am not and likeness of God, who is the we arrive fi ve minutes early and able to say “Father” to God, I am Our Mission is the mission and with of the Church itself — to Father and Son and Holy Spirit, a begin to chat with the person next not capable of prayer. brothers and spread the Gospel through perfect relationship of love, which to us. But this is not the moment We must learn to say “Father,” contemporary means of sisters. is unity. for small talk. It is the moment of that is, to place ourselves in His communications. From this we can understand silence to prepare ourselves for presence with fi lial trust. that we were all created in order the dialogue. But to be able to learn, we Member of: to enter a perfect relationship of It is the moment for recollection must humbly recognize that we love, in the continuous giving and within the heart, to prepare need to be taught, and to say with receiving of ourselves so as to be ourselves for the encounter with simplicity:,“Lord, teach me to able to fi nd the fulfi llment of our Jesus. Silence is so important! pray.” Headliners The Observer | FRIDAY DECEMBER 1, 2017 | 3 Msgr. John Mitchell, 81, Dies Nov. 22 in Loves Park LOVES PARK—Msgr. John Parish, Rockford. Personnel Board and diocesan ‘Alleluia’ is our song.” J. Mitchell died Nov. 22, 2017, Msgr. Mitchell was well Conciliation and Arbitration Msgr. Mitchell is survived at Lincolnshire Place, here, known for his service to edu- Board. by his sister Nancy Shoemaker where he was a resident. He cation in the Rockford Dio- He served terms as chaplain of Geneva, sister-in-law Beth was 81. cese. to the Serra Clubs in Rockford Mitchell and many nieces, Msgr. Mitchell was born on At Boylan Central Catho- and Sterling and to the Legion nephews and cousins. March 21, 1936, in Elgin, to lic High School, Rockford he of Mary in Rockford. He was preceded in death by William P. and Rita J. (Mea- served on the faculty, as di- In a past interview with The his parents, brothers William gher) Mitchell. rector of religious education Observer, Msgr. Mitchell said Jr. and Terrence. He graduated from St. Ed- as well as vice-principal and that he thanked God every day A Mass of Christian Burial ward Catholic High School, principal. for the call he “so anxiously was celebrated Nov. 29, 2017, Elgin in 1954. He then attend- He served as principal at pondered back in the semi- at 11 a.m. at St. Bridget Parish, ed St. Charles College, Ca- Newman Central Catholic nary,” many years ago. 600 Cliff ord Ave., Loves Park. tonsville, Md., and completed High School in Sterling and “While proclaiming the A family visitation was held his philosophy and theology served as superintendent of Gospel and living out the min- Nov. 27 at St. Thomas More studies at St. Mary University, Sterling and Rockford area istry of entails some , Elgin. Baltimore, Md. He attended Catholic boards of education. (Observer le photo) hardship, the joy and satisfac- A diocesan visitation was St. Mary Seminary, also in In 1994 he was appointed Msgr. John Mitchell tion I have experienced can- Nov. 28 at St. Bridget Church Baltimore. episcopal vicar for education Loves Park dedicated its par- not be matched. The love and with rosary at 7:45 p.m. and He earned a Master of Di- for the diocese. ish center in Msgr. Mitchell’s grace of the Lord Jesus makes Nov. 29 at St. Bridget prior to vinity degree from St. Mary, In 1983 he was named pas- honor with a Mass and dedica- it not only possible, but a joy to the Mass. Baltimore, a Master of Arts tor of St. Bridget Parish, Loves tion ceremony celebrated by serve His people,” he said. Private burial was at St. from the University of Notre Park, where he served until he Bishop David Malloy and by Msgr. Mitchell also told The Mary Cemetery in Gilberts. Dame in South Bend, Ind., and retired from the active priest- Msgr. Mitchell’s best friend, Observer that the challenge Memorials may be given to an administrator’s certifi cate hood in 2008. Bishop Emeritus Thomas G. for the everyday Catholic is the Rev. Msgr. John J. Mitchell in education from Northern Il- He was named Prelate of Doran. to “refl ect the joy that Christ Scholarship Fund at St. Bridg- linois University, DeKalb. Honor (monsignor) by Pope During his priesthood, Msgr. came to bring the world ... . For et Catholic Grade School, Msgr. Mitchell was ordained John Paul II in January, 1996, Mitchell served as Defender of we are an Easter people and Rockford. to the priesthood on May 25, with his investiture ceremony the Bond and Promoter of Jus- 1963, by Bishop Loras T. Lane held March 31 of that year at tice in the diocesan Tribunal; at St. James Pro-Cathedral in St. Bridget Parish. was Vicar Forane (dean) of Rockford. After his In 2006 he was honored as the Rockford Deanery; was a fi rst assignment was as paro- alumnus of the year at St. Ed- diocesan consultor; member of chial vicar at St. James Parish, ward Central Catholic School the diocesan Finance Council Rockford. He then was paro- in Elgin. and of the Presbyteral Coun- chial vicar at St. Bernadette In 2013, St. Bridget Parish in cil; member of the diocesan

ROCKFORD — Dec. 10, 7:30 a.m., Sunday Mass, a05625 Bishop Malloy’s Public Schedule e99d23 Cathedral of St. Peter ROCKFORD — Dec. 2, 9 a.m., Diocesan Pastoral ROCKFORD — Dec. 10, 1 p.m., Con rmation, St. Council Meeting, Diocesan Administration Center James Church ROCKFORD — Dec. 3, 7:30 a.m., Sunday Mass, ROCKFORD — Dec. 11, 11 a.m., Clergy Relief Cathedral of St. Peter Retirees’ Christmas Luncheon, Giovanni’s ROCKFORD — Dec. 7, 6:30 p.m., Advent Dinner Restaurant of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of STERLING — Dec. 12, 5 p.m., Mass for the Feast Jerusalem, Franchesco’s Restaurant of Our Lady of Guadalupe, St. Mary Church reverse white

Ora et labora. “Prayer and Work”

s Trappist monks, our lives are Awholly ordered by contemplation Did you know... and manual labor. At New Melleray, we view the making of caskets an ex- tension of our compassion and hope Savant's Social Responsibility portfolio options allow to bring solace to those experiencing investors to align their strategies with their faith? loss. It is a work of prayer and not profit. Call us now for an immediate need or Savant Capital Management is a nationally recognized fee-only wealth visit our website for future planning. management firm that offers integrative investment management and Receive a keepsake cross with your financial planning solutions to individuals, families, foundations, trust funds, request for our printed catalog. retirement plans and non-profit organizations. trappistcaskets.com • 888.433.6934

Start building your ideal future! Call us today for a complimentary portfolio review. 815 227 0300 savantcapital.com Blessed and prepared by the monks of New Melleray Abbey Savant Capital Management is a Registered Investment Advisor. Savant's marketing material should not be construed by any existing or prospective client as a guarantee that they will experience a certain level of results if they engage in the advisor's services. Please contact Savant to find out if they are qualified to provide investment advisory services in the state where you reside. 4 | FRIDAY DECEMBER 1, 2017 | The Observer Worth the Wait Advent Invites Us to Conquer Vice with Virtue s we enter into the new liturgical soul” when defining sloth, or we could say, (CNS photo/Lisa Johnston) Advent Reflection year, beginning with Advent, sloth is an avoidance or indifference to First A we are again presented with spiritual things! by Father John the important two fold purpose of this There are two extremes in regards McNamara Week of privileged season. to being sleepy or slothful in spiritual St. Mary, Huntley, parochial vicar First off, we remember Jesus’ birth in the matters. We could have the one extreme Advent Nativity, the wonderful day of Christmas, of being lazy in our day-to-day life so but second, it is a time to prepare for His the things of God are pushed to the side. sleeping or watching in regards to prayer? coming again. On the other extreme, perhaps the more dvent is a Frequent adoration? Weekly Mass? Bible This first Sunday of Advent invites common problem today, we are so busy reading? Rosary? A good movie about a Aprivileged time us to look at two words and dispositions that the things of God are often neglected. saint? Do I keep sleeping or watching in to allow the human mentioned by Jesus in the Gospel of St. Dear friends, the season of Advent my moral life? Regular confession and to be reawakened Mark — sleeping and watching. invites us to conquer vice with virtue! avoidance of environments that lead to sin? Jesus warns that we do not know when within us, to love The vice of sleeping in our spiritual life And finally, how about my neighbor? Do the Lord of the house is coming, so be very is transformed by practicing the virtue I keep sleeping or watching in regards to the questions careful that He does not come and find us of diligence or watchfulness in the most the needs of the people God has placed in that life opens, sleeping. important duties of our life, “the things of my daily life? to embrace our Sleeping often refers to one of the seven God.” This Advent let’s look honestly at those fragility and need deadly sins, the sin of sloth. One spiritual Let’s begin this Advent with an areas where we often sleep, and resolve to for Another to writer used the phrase, “sluggishness of examination of conscience. Do I keep now keep watch! respond to them. This Advent, may we let the light Bless Your Advent Wreath grow and give n the first Sunday of Advent, patience to others gather the family to bless your as a gift. O wreath with this or a similar prayer. Adult: Our help is in the name of the Lord All: Who made heaven and earth. One of those present reads from Scripture, for example, Isaiah 9 (lines 1-2 and 5-6) or Isaiah 63 (lines 16-17 and 19) or Isaiah 64 (lines 2-7) After the reading, a parent or other adult says the following prayer with hands joined. Lord our God, we praise you for your Son, Jesus Christ: He is Emmanuel, the hope of the peoples, (CNS photo/Lisa Johnston, St Louis Review) He is the wisdom that teaches and guides us, light the candles of this wreath. May He come quickly and not delay. He is the Savior of every nation. May the wreath and its light be a We ask this through Christ our Lord. Lord God, sign of Christ’s promise to bring us All: Amen. let your blessing come upon us as we salvation. — USCCB

Beginning the Church’s liturgical year, Christmas. many wreaths in the U.S. The rose candle Advent (from, “ad-venire” in Latin or “to Advent wreaths, with candles marking is lit on the third Sunday of the season. come to”) is the season encompassing each week of the season, are a traditional A more typical European wreath the four Sundays (and weekdays) symbol of the liturgical period. features red candles and evergreens. leading up to the celebration of Purple and rose candles are typical of Sources: USCCB,CNS

Copyright © 2017, United States Conference of Catholic , Washington, DC. All rights reserved. Quotes from , copyright © 2013, 2014, Libreria Editrice Vaticana, Vatican City State. All rights reserved. Used with permission. Worth the Wait The Observer | FRIDAY DECEMBER 1, 2017 | 5 Celebrate the Immaculate Conception of Mary Dec. 8 n Dec. 8, we celebrate the It’s an obligation declared that this doctrine is divinely Solemnity of the Immaculate revealed and must be accepted with O Conception of the Blessed The Feast of the Immaculate faith by the entire Church. (United Conception on Dec. 8 is a holy day Virgin Mary. States Catholic Catechism for Adults, The feast remembers Mary’s of obligation in the U.S. For Mass 142-143) conception in her mother’s womb times, check myParish app, your Even before this tenet of the faith was bulletin or the diocesan website at without the stain of original sin: formally declared, a long tradition of http://www.rockforddiocese.org/ An essential part of God’s plan for faith that held this belief that Mary was parishes/?search=city to look for a the mother of his Son was that she conceived without sin: parish where you’ll be that day. be conceived free from original sin. This feast was celebrated in some “Through the centuries the Church would be a fitting and worthy vessel of monasteries before the beginning of the became ever more aware that Mary, eighth century and became widespread the Son of God. (CNS photo/Paul Haring) “full of grace” through God, was The Immaculate Conception does An image of Mary is adorned with flowers in the 18th century. redeemed from the moment of her not refer to the virginal conception and at the foot of a tall Marian statue overlook- In the United States, celebration conception” (Catechism of the Catholic birth of Christ, but rather to Mary’s ing the Spanish Steps in Rome Dec. 8, the of this observance predates the Church, 491). being conceived without inheriting feast of the Immaculate Conception. Declaration of Independence. The In anticipation that she was to bear original sin. bishops commended the nation to the was better understood by deepening the Son of God, Mary was preserved In the course of time, the doctrine patronage of Mary under the title of from the time of her conception of the Immaculate Conception became theological inquiry. the Immaculate Conception in 1846. It from original sin. We call this the more precisely enunciated, as its truth In 1854, Pope Pius IX proclaimed became a nationwide holy day in 1885. Immaculate Conception. — long supported by the universal this dogma infallibly: that is, in his role — USCCB< Essential Guide to Seasons and No sin would touch her, so that she popular devotion of the faithful — as supreme teacher of the Church, he Saints, 120 Honor Our Lady of Guadalupe Dec. 12

arishes in the Rockford and 10, 12:30 p. m.; Dec. 4-6, 9, 11, 6:30 p.m.; Diocese celebrate Our Lady Dec. 7-8, 7 p.m.; Dec. 12 rosary and Mass 5 P of Guadalupe in a variety of a.m. and 7:30 p.m. Info: 847/888-2828 ways. MCHENRY Some offer a novena leading up to the feast day, Dec.12. Church of Holy Apostles, 5211 W. Bull Val- Some sing “las mañanitas” — a ley Road: Novena—Dec 4, 6:30 p.m. in the birthday-like song for Our Lady — and chapel; Dec. 5, 7 p.m. and Dec. 10, 11:30 attend Masses on the feast day. a.m. in the church; Dec. 12, midnight-4:30 At several parishes, there are also a.m. mañanitas, 4:30 a.m. Mass; 4:30-5:30 a.m. refreshments in Father Sherry Center. receptions at one or more of the Info: 815/385-5673 gatherings. Here are events parishes have told us ROCHELLE about. Check your bulletin for others. St. Patrick, 244 Kelley Dr.: Novena—Dec. Services are primarily in Spanish 4-10, 6 p.m.; Dec. 11, 4:30 a.m. mañanitas, unless noted. 5:30 a.m. rosary; 5 p.m. Mass followed by AURORA refreshments. Info: 815/562-2370

Our Lady of Good Counsel, 620 S. Fifth ST. CHARLES St.: Dec. 3 rosary after Mass, 1 p.m.; Dec. St. Patrick, Downtown Church, 400 Cedar 4-6 rosary 6 p.m.; Dec. 7 rosary after 6 p.m. St.: Novena – Dec. 3 and 10, 5 p.m.; Dec. Mass, refreshments follow in St. Francis 4-6, Dec. 8 and 11, 5:30 p.m.; Dec. 7 , 6 p.m.; Center; Dec. 8 rosary 6:30 p.m., Immacu- Dec. 12, 5 p.m. Mass. Info: 630/338-8000 late Conception Mass 7 p.m.; Dec. 9 rosary 6 p.m.; Dec. 10, rosary after Mass, 1 p.m.; SOUTH BELOIT Dec. 11 rosary 7 p.m.; Dec. 12 English Mass 8 a.m., dancing and singing 5 p.m., 6 p.m. St. Peter, 620 Blackhawk Blvd.: Novena— Mass with procession. Info: 630/851-1100 Dec. 3, 12 noon in church before 12:30 p.m. St. Nicholas, 308 High St.: Dec. 3-11, 6 Spanish Mass; Dec. 4-5, 7 p.m. in Didier Hall p.m. Mass and 7 p.m. novena; Dec. 12, 2-5 7 p.m.; Dec. 6-8, 7 p.m. in church; Dec. 9, 6 a.m. mañanitas, Spanish Mass 5 a.m. in p.m. in church before 6:30 p.m. Mass; Dec. church, 6 a.m. refreshments, Spanish Mass- 10, 12 before the 12:30 p.m. Spanish Mass; es, 8 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. Info: 630/898-8707 Dec. 11, 7 p.m. in hall; celebration— Dec. Sacred Heart, 771 Fulton St.: Dec 12, 5 12, 5 a.m. mananitas, 6 p.m. procession, 7 p.m. Mass. Info: 815/525-3400 a.m. mañanitas, 10 a.m., 3, 4 and 7 p.m. (Observer file photo) Masses. Info: 630/898-4165 Our Lady of Guadalupe is surrounded by flowers at St. Joseph Parish in Elgin. STERLING St. Rita of Cascia, 750 W. Old Indian Trail: Dec. 8 7:30 p.m. Spanish Mass; Dec. 12, 5 St. Mary, 509 Avenue B, parish center: a.m. serenade to Our Lady of Guadalupe, after midnight, 4 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. Mass- GENOA Novena—Dec. 3-11, 6 p.m. in chapel; Dec. 9 a.m. English Mass, 7 p.m. Spanish Mass. es. Info: 847/516-2636 12, 4:30 p.m. mañanitas; 5 p.m. Mass in St. Catherine of Genoa, 340 W. Stott St.: Info: 630/892-5918 English, refreshments after Mass. Info: CRYSTAL LAKE Dec. 12, 5 a.m. mañanitas,; 5 p.m. re-en- 815/625-0640 BATAVIA actment of the Guadalupe story; 6 p.m. St. Thomas the Apostle, 453 Pierson St.: bilingual Mass; 7 p.m., refreshments. Info: SYCAMORE Holy Cross, 2300 Main St.: Dec. 9, dinner Novena – 6 p.m. Dec. 1-6, Dec. 8; 7 p.m. 815/784-2355 after 4:15 p.m. Mass. Cost: $25 family, $10 Dec. 7. Info: 815/455-5400 St. Mary, 322 Waterman St.: Dec. 12, 5 ELGIN adult, $5 children over 5, free children 4 St. Thomas the Apostle, 451 W. Terra a.m. mañanitas, 5:30 p.m. procession; 7 and younger. Info: 630/879-4750 p.m. Mass; 8 p.m. cultural activity, 9:30 Cotta Ave.: Dec. 9, 3 a.m. rosary, 3:45 a.m. St. Joseph, 272 Division St.: Dec. 11, 6 CARPENTERSVILLE mariachi and dancers; 4:35 a.m., re-enact- p.m. mañanitas, 8 p.m., 10 p.m. and mid- p.m. closing. Info: 815/895-3275 ment of the story of Guadalupe, 4:55 a.m. night mariachis; Dec. 12, 5 a.m. mañanitas. WOODSTOCK St. Monica, 90 N. Kennedy Dr.: Novena—6 procession and Mass; 6 a.m. refreshments. Info: 847/931-2800 p.m. Dec. 3, 9 and 10, 6:30 p.m., Dec. 4, 8, Info: 815/455-5400 St. Laurence, 575 Jewett St.: Dec. 10, 6:30 St. Mary, 312 Lincoln Ave.: Dec. 12, 2:30- 11; Dec. 12, midnight-6:45 a.m. activities, 4 p.m. bilingual prayer service; Dec. 11, 6:30 6:15 a.m. mañanitas with mariachi, singers, a.m., 8 a.m. and 6:45 p.m. Spanish Masses; DEKALB p.m., prayers and Mass in Spanish, refresh- dancers, bands, prayers and refreshments 5 p.m. English Mass. info: 847/428-2646 ments following each service; Dec. 12, in cafeteria; 5-9 p.m. rosary, mariachi, CARY St. Mary, 329 Pine St.: Dec. 11, 6 p.m no- 6:30 p.m. concelebrated bilingual proces- dancers, re-enactment of the Guadalupe vena; Dec. 12, 4-6:45 a.m., mañanitas. Info: sion, Mass and feast. Info: 847/468-6900 story, 7 p.m. Mass, 8:15 p.m. refreshments SS. Peter and Paul, 410 N. First St.: Dec. 12 815/758-5432 St. Mary, 397 Fulton St.: Novena—Dec. 3 in cafeteria. Info: 815/338-3377 6 | FRIDAY DECEMBER 1, 2017 | The Observer Around the Diocese Save the Date Dec 13 Deadline: Submit news by Dec. 13 for Dec. 22 What’s Up items for events Dec 25-Jan 14; note three- week listing. Watch for updates at What’s Up+plus at http://observer. rockforddiocese.org/whats- up+plus during the Christmas season. AURORA Student concert: 7 p.m.; Rosary High School, 901 N. Edgelawn Dr. Featuring Rosary vocal and instrumental ensembles. Fine Arts Boosters offer refreshments after the concert. Info: www.rosaryhs. com WEST DUNDEE Evening of reflection: 7-8:30 p.m.; St. Catherine of Siena chapel, (Photos provided) 845 W. Main St. Sponsor: Elgin Sterling Students Learn from Veteran Deanery Council of Catholic Women. Reflection leader: Father The prekindergarten classes at St. Mary School in Sterling celebrated The children (above) then made and sent thank you picture cards to John Gow, parochial vicar. A Veteran’s Day with a presentation from Corey Gabler (left, seated in veterans. Posing with them are (back row) teacher Mary Blatz, Ga- chance for women to prepare for back), who discussed his time in the military. His son, Graham Gabler bler (kneeling), and teacher Lauren Holmes. The students are 3- and Advent. Free. Info: Paula Davidson, (left, front), helped by showing his father’s medal to other students. 4-years-old. 847/888-2414, swissmiss095@att. net Dec 15 AURORA What’s Up Christmas concert: 7 p.m.; Rosary High School, 901 N. Edgelawn Dr. families. Presentations, tours, Kay Moran and Linda Hatton of Featuring Switchback and their Irish and American music. Cost: Tue Dec 5 Thu Dec 7 Servants of the Holy Heart of conversations with faculty, staff, $25 adults; $15 students; free, students. Info: Laurie DiSilvio, Mary. Register by Dec. 4; limited children 6 and younger; $5 off until AURORA ROCKFORD to 30. Cost: $25, includes lunch. Advent confession: 7 p.m.; St. 815/338-4220, ldisilvio@marian. CWL Mass and workshop: 10 Nov. 30 with promo code SANTA. Info: Sister Mary Kay, 815/398- Info: ww.rosaryhs.com/switchback Rita of Cascia, 750 Old Indian Trail com a.m.; St. Rita, 6254 Valley Knoll 7323, [email protected] Dr. Annual Catholic Women’s BATAVIA WOODSTOCK League Mass for deceased Relics displayed: 7-8:30 p.m., Open house: 6-8 p.m.; Marian Wed Dec 6 bishops, and religious of Sun Dec 10 Holy Cross, 2300 Main St. Revere Central Catholic High School, the diocese. After Mass, catered the relics of St. John Paul II and St. Deadline for Dec. 15 What’s Up Padre Pio. 1001 McHenry Ave. For brunch and blanket workshop. ROCHELLE potential students and their (for events Dec 18-24) Donations accepted for new Mexican food fest: noon-6 Dec 17 boiler for the Poor Clares Corpus p.m.; St. Patrick, 244 Kelley Dr. ROCKFORD Christ Monastery. Info: Linda Gorditas, tacos, pambazos, atole, Advent lectures: 1-2:30 p.m. (last of three Sunday lectures); Stoinski, 815/975-0601; Rosie tamales. Proceeds for capital Cathedral of St. Peter fellowship St. Mary of Maple Park’s Sheridan, 815/978-4779 campaign. Cost: varies; $14 per dozen pre-ordered tamales. Info: hall, 1243 N. Church St. Presenter: John McGrath, diocesan director after Masses Dec. 3 or 815/562- Fri Dec 8 of Faith Formation. Topic: King 2370 David in the Memory of Israel. Annual Feast of the Immaculate ROCKFORD Sponsors: Rockford Deanery CCW Conception; Holy Day of Advent lectures: 1-2:30 p.m. and Bible Fellowship for Men. Obligation (second of three Sunday RSVP appreciated. Cost: $5 per lecture. Info: 815/997-3780 BATAVIA lectures); Cathedral of St. Peter fellowship hall, 1243 N. Church Jan 6 Women’s retreat: 7 p.m. Dec. Christmas St. Presenter: John McGrath, AURORA 8 to 2 p.m. Dec. 10; Nazareth diocesan director of Faith Qualifying exam: 8 a.m.; Rosary Spirituality Center, 717 N. Formation. Topic: The Painful High School, 901 N. Edgelawn Dr. Batavia Ave. Advent preparation. Truth of David’s Later Years. For girls interested in attending Sponsor: Servants of the Holy Rosary. Register online. Info: Cookie Sale Sponsors: Rockford Deanery Heart of Mary. Reservations rosaryhs.com/exam CCW and Bible Fellowship for by Dec. 1. Cost: $100 (with Men. RSVP appreciated. Cost: $10 Jan 7 $20 deposit). Info: Linda Isleib, for series; $5 per lecture. Info: ROCKFORD Saturday, Dec. 16 630/879-1296 815/997-3780 Alpha: 6-7:30 p.m.; Cathedral of St.. Peter, 1243 Church St. 11-week 9 a.m. — 11 a.m. (or when sold out) ROCKFORD session begins to explore the faith, National night of prayer: 8 p.m.- Submit News ask questions, share ideas, build midnight; St. Rita, 6254 Valley friendships and seek Jesus. Free. Select your own Knoll Dr. Communal and private Parish, school and Catholic Info: Elizabeth Barnet, 815/742- prayer, adoration and rosary. organization publicists may 5377; [email protected]; Info: Mary Kinney, 815/519-7066; send news and photos about www.alpha.org homemade cookies [email protected] their upcoming and recent $ activities. Submissions will be Elsewhere 7.00 per pound forwarded to El Observador Sat Dec 9 and to the diocesan calendar. Dec 1-Jan 2 AURORA Deadline: 10 days before publi- SINSINAWA, WIS. cation. Nativities of the World: 10 a.m.- Cheer clinic: 11 a.m.-3:30 5 p.m. daily; Sinsinawa Mound, St. Mary’s Novak Center Online: Use the form at http:// p.m.; Rosary High School. For County Road Z, off Wisconsin Rte. observer.rockforddiocese.org/ County Line Road — Maple Park kindergarten through eighth- 11. Handcrafted nativity sets from grade students. Clinic plus game contact-us. Click on Submit around the world. Info: 608/748- performance Dec. 22 at Marmion Events and News. 4411; www.sinsinawa.org For More Information Academy. Cost: $35 in advance; By Mail: Send to The Observer, Dec 11-12 $40 at the door; $5 for cheer P.O. Box 7044, Rockford, IL 61125. LAKE GENEVA, WIS. bows. Info: www.rosaryhs.com/ or Advance Orders Find more events at http://www. Guadalupe vigil: 6 p.m. Dec. 11 to cheer rockforddiocese.org/calendar. 6 a.m. Dec. 12; St. Francis de Sales, 148 Main St. (Hwy 50). Chicken LOVES PARK php or on The Observer Catholic call 815-827-3302 pozole and tostadas dinner; vigil Day retreat: 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m.; Newspaper Facebook page and on through mañanitas, and 5 a.m. (Advance Orders Taken Until Dec. 14) St. Bridget Parish Center, 600 our blog, What’s Up+plus at http:// Mass Dec. 12. Info: 262/248-8524, Clifford Ave. For men and observer.rockforddiocese.org/ www.sfdslg.org, [email protected] women. Presenters: Sisters Mary whats-up+plus Nation/World The Observer | FRIDAY DECEMBER 1, 2017 | 7 Pope Now Visiting Both News in Brief Bishops named for Diocese of Myanmar and Bangladesh Nashville, Diocese of Jefferson City WASHINGTON (CNS)—Pope Francis has named Father J. Mark YANGON, Myanmar (CNS) Spalding, a priest of the Archdiocese of Louisville, Kentucky, as —In a small, informal meeting the new bishop of Nashville, Tennessee, succeeding Bishop Da- with a variety of religious lead- vid R. Choby, who died June 3. The pope also accepted the resig- ers, Pope Francis went to the nation of Bishop John R. Gaydos of Jefferson City, Missouri, and heart of his message for Myan- named as his successor Father W. Shawn McKnight, a priest of mar: unity, not uniformity, is the Diocese of Wichita, Kansas, who was executive director of the the secret to peace. U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Secretariat for Clergy, Con- Representatives of the Bap- secrated Life and Vocations from 2010-2015. tist, Anglican, Buddhist, Hindu, Jewish and Muslim communi- Vatican Museums launch joint art shows ties, as well as leaders from ec- umenical organizations, briefly with China to further dialogue told the pope about their com- VATICAN CITY (CNS)—As a gesture of openness, cooperation munities during the meeting (CNS photo/Paul Haring) and “cultural diplomacy,” the Vatican Museums have organized Pope Francis greets children as he arrives at Yangon International Air- Nov. 28 at the archbishop’s resi- two joint art exhibitions with China. “It is the first time ever the dence in Yangon. port in Yangon, Myanmar, Nov. 27. The pope is making a six-day visit to Myanmar and Bangladesh. pope’s museums have orga- “United does not mean the nized an exhibit in the People’s same; unity is not uniformity, used to further the cause or The Vatican said Pope Francis Republic of China,” Barbara even within the same confes- highlight differences. also met separately with Sitagu Jatta, director of the Vatican sion,” he said. “Each one has its Museums, told reporters at a values, its riches and also its de- Today, the pope said, there is “a Sayadaw, a Buddhist leader Vatican news conference Nov. ficiencies.” global trend toward uniformity, who has publicly supported the Although the vast majority to doing everything the same,” military’s crackdown on the Ro- 21. The Vatican Museums will of people in Myanmar are Bud- but “that is killing humanity, that hingya minority. be loaning 40 pieces from its dhist, the country’s religious is cultural colonization.” The majority of people in ethnological collections for display first in Beijing’s Forbid- make up is varied. Myanmar People of faith believe in a Myanmar are Buddhist, while (CNS photo/courtesy Vatican Museums) also has some 135 recognized creator, a father, which also the majority of Bangladeshis den City and then in three oth- “Cradling Arms” by Chinese paint- ethnic groups and in the strug- should mean recognizing other are Muslim. Pope Francis had er cities, including Shanghai. er Zhang Yan will be loaned from gle for recognition and political human beings as brothers and meetings with religious leaders Likewise, China will be loaning the Vatican Museums for exhibit power, religion often has been sisters, he said. scheduled in both countries. 40 pieces from its collections. in China.

www.GOLDEN FRONTIER.org Sponsored by Catholic Shrine Pilgrimage — Featured Trip — Sorrento, Isle of Capri & Amalfi . Nine-day trip to beautiful Sorrento. Even in ancient Roman times the Sorrento peninsula was considered the most beautiful part of the Empire. Mountains, volcanoes, cliff s and the sea coast joined together to present outstand- ing views and scenery. From one base hotel for seven nights we visit Sorrento, Amalfi Coast, Isle of Capri, Na- ples, Monte Cassino and Shrines of St. Andrew and St. Benedict. Fully escorted, with round trip air from Chica- go, Indianapolis, St Louis or Kansas City, four-star hotel, (CNS photo/Max Rossi, Reuters) sightseeing, dinners, and breakfasts. Pope Prays for Peace Register in December for best availability. Isle of Capri March 6 to 14, 2018. An image of Sudanese St. Josephine Margaret Bakhita is carried in Priced at $3,333 procession during a prayer service led by Pope Francis for peace in CLIP AND MAIL FOR MORE INFORMATION South Sudan and Congo in St. Peter’s Basilica at the Vatican Nov. 23. Ask us for more information about these 2018 trips!  Mexico City — 8 days in Feb. 2018 ...... $2,588  Rome and Assisi — 9 days in March and Nov. 2018 ...... $3,118 States Fight Religious  Sorrento, Amalfi , Capri — 9 days in March 2018 ...... $3,333  Alaskan Cruise — 8 days in Aug. 2018 from ...... $2,463  England — In the Footsteps of St. Thomas More – 9 days in Sept. 2018 ...... $3,284 Exemptions to Mandate  Poland — 10 days in Oct. 2018 ...... $3,244  Switzerland — 11 days in Oct. 2018 ...... $3,438 WASHINGTON (CNS)— issued, Pennsylvania and Cali-  The Little Sisters of the Poor, fornia filed complaints against France — 11 days in Oct. 2018 ...... $3,523 who have always been known the federal government over the  Greece — 9 days in Nov. 2018 ...... $3,083 for their care for the poor el- exemption.  Rome, Florence, Assisi — 11 days in Nov. 2018 ...... $3,828 derly, have been in the spotlight Delaware, Maryland, New  Holy Lands— 10 days in November 2018 ...... $3,888 for the past six years with their York and Virginia joined Cali-  PLEASE SEND BROCHURE ABOUT THE TRIP(S) I HAVE MARKED ABOVE objection to the federal govern- fornia’s lawsuit to become the Golden Frontier offers travel to places of interest for people of the Catholic faith. Sponsored by the non- ment’s requirement that they first plaintiff group to file a mo- profi t Catholic Shrine Pilgrimage, these trips are designed for adults with seniors in mind. Travel with the provide insurance coverage of tion for a preliminary injunc- camaraderie and friendship of fellow Catholics on trips accompanied by priest chaplains. All trips include contraceptives for their employ- tion seeking to prevent the new round trip air from St. Louis, Chicago, Indianapolis or Kansas City. Other airports available, please ask us. ees. exemption rule from going into Name ______They hoped the issue was be- effect. This means the Little Sis- hind them after a new rule was ters of the Poor are going back Address ______issued in October by the De- to court. City ______State ______Zip ______partment of Health and Human Mark Rienzi, senior counsel Phone (optional) ( ______) ______

Services granting an exemption at Becket, the law firm repre- R Call Toll Free 1-888-284-6725, Fax (618) 234-9861 or mail to: O to the contraceptive mandate senting the sisters, said in a Nov. C K for religious nonprofits who op- 21 press call that the HHS rule GOLDEN FRONTIER TOURS F O pose the mandate on religious “should have been the end of 4100 N. Illinois St. • Swansea, Illinois 62226 R grounds. the story” and the end of a “long Email: [email protected]  www.goldenfrontier.org D But days after the rule was and divisive culture war.” 8 | FRIDAY DECEMBER 1, 2017 | T he Observer seasoned D estination observer Not a

(CNS photos/Chaz Muth Roman Smithsonian Exhibition Religion in Early America Washington, D.C.

Destination: The Smithsonian National Museum of Amer- Holiday ican History’s new exhibition, “Religion in Early America,” celebrates the free exercise of religion and the religious (CNS photos/Paul Haring) diversity that define American faith life. Masses are not offered at the museum. Check https:// Pilgrims Learn Lessons Walking to Rome masstimes.org/ for more information. Why to go: The exhibit features artifacts from Christian- By Matthew Fowler anymore like I did,” he said just before finish- ity, Judaism, Islam and other major world religions. Pe- and Robert Duncan ing his pilgrimage in late October. “I can think ter Manseau, the museum’s Lilly Endowment curator of American religious history, is the author of several books Catholic News Service back and realize that I need a little bit more and curator of the new exhibit. patience with people, with my family.” fter weeks of navigating difficult Pilgrims encounter true wilderness on the “We can’t really think about the role of religion in America terrain, avoiding wild animals trail to Rome, and Thoman said he prepares today without wondering about how it all began,” Manseau and steep cliffs, the devoted told Catholic News Service. them for encounters with the dogs, wild boar, pilgrims and hiking enthusiasts snakes and other creatures that inhabit the Ital- The exhibit, which will be open until Awho manage to traverse the 155 miles between June 3, 2018, displays artifacts and ian forests. Assisi and Rome on foot arrive in St. Peter’s stories of American religious life To keep on schedule, pilgrims walk between Basilica and report a special kind of payoff. from the 1630s to the 1840s. Re- nine and 12 miles daily, stopping only to eat “It’s very moving when you get there and flecting the many Christian denomi- and sleep. Many of the pilgrims Thoman leads nations that made up early America, walk through the doors of St. Peter’s,” said Bret opt to stay in hotels, since, he says, “after a hard Thoman, director of St. Francis Pilgrimages. it also features noteworthy items of day’s hiking most pilgrims have had enough Jewish, Islamic, Mormon, Native “It’s almost like walking from the world into penance.” American and other faith traditions. heaven.” Father Vincent Gilmore, the pastor of Holy Some of the exhibit’s biggest draws The Way of St. Francis is a network of walk- Rosary Parish, said that punctuating each day are the Jefferson Bible, the George ing trails that connects Assisi to Rome. Cre- of hiking with the celebration of Mass helped Washington Inaugural Bible, Arch- ated 15 years ago by the government of Italy’s him feel connected to pilgrim saints. bishop John Carroll’s chalice and Umbria province, it attempts to mirror the “For me, it’s a way of joining heaven and paten and a church bell forged by path likely trod by St. Francis of Assisi when Paul Revere. earth while I am walking,” Father Gilmore said. A cross believed to he went to Rome to meet Pope Innocent III in “In the Eucharist, there is no time. You enter be made from iron The exhibit highlights the influence 1209. The actual historic route remains un- the space of God, which is really outside of taken from the Ark of the Carroll family on Catholicism known. time,” and therefore it brings together “all the and the Dove, a ship in America. Charles Carroll, the only Deacon Terrance Marcell, a 79-year-old serv- that brought the first Catholic signer of the Declaration of people who have walked these lands .. .” English Catholics to Independence, became a senator ing at Holy Rosary Parish in Edmonds, Wash., “Walking the cammino is a rhythm and a Maryland is part of the said the challenge of walking the “cammino” — silence that puts things into perspective,” said exhibit. in the newly formed government. His cousin, Archbishop Carroll of as it is called in Italian — gave him a renewed Father Gilmore. “We mature along the way, we Baltimore, became the first bishop in the United States, sense of what is truly important in life. gain more wisdom and a greater sense of God founded Georgetown University in Washington, and “I’m not going to worry about my golf score and His providence.” worked to create other schools and religious communities. (Grand) Kid friendly: Check their suggestions for visits with kids at http://americanhistory.si.edu/museum/faqs/ parents-visiting-museum-kids Info: Address — The Smithsonian National Museum of American History, Constitution Avenue, NW, between 12th and 14th Streets, Washington, D.C. n Phone — 202/633- 1000 n Website — americanhistory.si.edu/religion-in- early-america (Find an online tour at the website.) Kids are welcome to visit the exhibit, which will be on display until June 3, 2018.

Father Vincent Gilmore (left), tour leader Bret Thoman and Deacon Terrance Marcell walk toward the Vati- — Carolyn Mackenzie, CNS; Sharon Boehlefeld contributed to this story. can as they follow the historic pilgrimage route of St. Francis from Assisi to Rome. Our Catholic View The Observer | FRIDAY DECEMBER 1, 2017 | 9 Scripture Re ection for Dec. 3, Di erent View CNS/Harley Schwandron 1st Sunday of Advent Come, Lord Jesus: Our Advent Prayer

BY JEM SULLIVAN Catholic News Service

ach Advent, we are given a fresh chance to discover that the deepest longings of our heart are for God. The proph- et Isaiah reminds us of this deep human desire for God. For this reason, he is considered the prophet of EAdvent who highlights the hopes of the people of Israel for a messiah. Our deep longing for God is at the heart of our Advent preparations. The Israelites returned to their homeland after their exile. Almost immediately, they begin to fall away from God’s commands. The prophet laments his own sins and the sins of his people. He begs for God’s intervention. Then, he uses a striking metaphor to Generations Need to Work Together describe Yahweh’s relationship with Israel: the image of a potter and his clay. I can still feel the thick In Light of Faith pleaded with young A skilled potter shapes formless clay into beautiful and plastic cover over the people not to keep the functional objects. In the same way, Israel is being shaped by checkered tablecloths elderly “in the closet” and by Elise Italiano God’s loving hand. Isaiah’s image begs the question: Are we under my fi ngers, still Executive Director of encouraged them to foster smell the faint aroma of Communications, The intergenerational dialogue willing to be molded by God just as a potter molds clay? almond extract mixed Catholic University of and relationships. In the second reading, Paul writes to the Corinthians as America with something like It’s for this reason they wait for the revelation of Christ. Beginning with words mothballs in my nose. inlighto [email protected] that Pope Francis has of blessing, Paul thanks God for the many blessings they have The week leading up to Christmas was very often stressed the importance of received. Then, Paul encourages them, and us, to use God-given the same every year of my childhood. In grandparents — “Your grandparents have gifts and talents well. less than 24 hours, my brother and I made the wisdom, and furthermore, they have As they wait for the revelation of the Lord’s glory, and the rounds with my parents to the kitchen the need for you to knock on the door of persevere to the end, Paul reminds them, and us, that God alone tables of every living great-aunt and their hearts to share their wisdom,” he said is our strength. Do we lean on God to face the challenges of great-uncle we had in New Jersey, and to this September to the Shalom Catholic daily life? the homes of a few “paisanos,” who I later Community. He himself keeps a note from Jesus’ advice to the disciples in Mark’s Gospel is a perfect learned were not actually of any blood his grandmother in his breviary that he Advent theme. Be alert! Be watchful! He repeats the message relation to us. uses every day. I remember looking forward to the Yet the pope has also said that young three times, reminding us of its importance in the spiritual life. annual tradition. As soon as we stepped people should go out of their way to One obstacle to the Christian life is indiff erence to God’s into each successive house, a fresh plate encounter and welcome the elderly presence in our lives. Jesus warns against being asleep when of cookies was placed on the table. I will who are not their family members. the Lord of the house returns. During Advent, we are invited to never forget the anticipation of my mother This will require proactive measures hear God’s word with hearts and minds open and alert to God’s lifting the standard limit on sweets for a on our part, perhaps requiring us to go loving presence in our midst. whole day. to the peripheries of our churches and In this season of the incarnation, Jesus, the Son of God, comes Looking back now, I appreciate so much communities to fi nd them. into our midst bringing a peace and hope that this world cannot more. It was a dedicated time that my We should also ask our priests and give. For most of us, this time quickly turns into the most hectic parents set aside for us to learn about our pastoral staff where we can fi nd them. Too part of the year. We are distracted, overwhelmed and focused on family’s history. It shaped our own sense often they go unnoticed but are beckoning fl eeting, material things that satisfy only for a time. of identity and what we learned to value as for company and community. God’s word invites us to fi x our gaze on the eternal and adults. It will certainly require more listening greatest gift we can give and receive in this season of joy — the My relatives would laugh so hard with than it does talking. It may involve one another, reminiscing about their own awkward silences and patience and gift of God’s only Son, Jesus who reconciles us to friendship youth. We still tell some of the stories that walking a little bit slower than usual. But with God. we heard around those tables, as if we had isn’t the whole point of accompaniment to Advent becomes a spiritually fruitful season when we turn to witnessed the events fi rsthand. share in someone else’s journey, no matter God’s word, saying in faith, “speak to me, Lord.” Looking at the ways in which the church its current direction or pace? can hear the voices of young people has been Pope Francis has reminded us that “the the primary focus of this column — but church regards the elderly with aff ection, hen the church celebrates the liturgy it is also worthwhile to turn that question gratitude and high esteem. They are an of Advent each year, she makes present on its head. One such way is through a essential part of the Christian community ‘W promotion of intergenerational solidarity. and of society.” this ancient expectancy of the Messiah, for It’s a challenging message for a culture As the 2018 synod on vocational that idolizes youth, and one in which older discernment aims to put the realities of by sharing in the long preparation for the family members often live independently or young people front and center for the in the care of people outside of a family. church, we’d also be wise to heed the Savior’s first coming, the faithful renew their One of Pope Francis’ favorite messages wisdom of those who have prepared the ardent desire for his second coming.’ to young people has been to remember the way ahead of us. elderly, to draw near to them and to learn Join the conversation. Submit a proposal for a guest — Catechism of the Catholic Church, 524 from them. Earlier this year, Pope Francis column to inlighto [email protected].

To send letters to us please use one of the following: Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, Mail: The Observer, Email: or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of The Diocese of Rockford [email protected] 555 Colman Center Drive (Please put Letter to the Editor in speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, P.O. Box 7044 the subject line.) and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances. Rockford, IL 61125 Please provide your name, address, Fax: 815/399-6225 and phone number. — The First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution 10 | FRIDAY DECEMBER 1, 2017 | The Observer For the Record

Deaths Parish offices may forward death and wedding information using forms at http://observer.rockforddiocese.org/contact-us. You ALBANY—St. Patrick: Lorraine may also request death and wedding postcards by calling 815/399- M. Bennett, 81, Nov. 15; 4300, ext. 383. We encourage you to send the information as soon as AU RO R A — A n nu n c i a t i o n you receive it. Thank you. BVM: Donald A. Nolde, Jr., 70, Nov. 9; STERLING—St. Mary: Perry J. make a difference in your life as a Our Lady of Good Counsel: Ma- Ports, 80, Nov. 17. result. ria C. Benavent, 70, Oct. 6; Rita Courtesy of Parish Publications Kiefer, 89, Nov. 13; Weddings “Stewardship” newsletter St. Therese of Jesus: Dolores Or- AURORA--St. Therese of Jesus: tiz, 70, Nov. 2; Irene Zamudio Casas and Charles Mass Meditation Astorga Jr. Gamiz, Nov. 11; BYRON—St. Mary: Sonya C. Sunday, Dec. 3 (1st Advent): Haws, 48, Nov. 14; STERLING—Sacred Heart: We are the servants of God, each DURAND/IRISH GROVE—St. Michaele Vock and Trevan Burn, with his or her own task. We will Mary/St. Patrick: Rev. Donald J. Nov. 18. be judged good stewards if, at His Lund, 74, Oct. 29; coming, He finds us ready and Stewardship Moment conscientiously pursuing the tasks Leroy HUNTLEY—St. Mary: to which we have been called. Fitzgerald, 90, Nov. 17; An attitude toward sharing: Courtesy of Sharon Hueckel ROCKFORD—St. Rita: Wil- “Where your treasure is, there will your heart be also” (Lk 12:34). It liam “Bill” Riggle, 63, Nov. 14; Life Moment Katherine Nelson, 93, Nov. 16; is spiritually significant that when you return a proportionate share That all people will seek St. Stanislaus Kostka: Marian of your possessions to Christ, you Pray: justice and have compassion for Domanski, 86, Nov. 14; are returning a significant por- the poor and hungry of our world. SOUTH BELOIT—St. Peter: tion of yourself. Christ wants this Debra G. Stone, 58, Nov. 17; faithfulness from you, and He will Courtesy of www.priestsforlife.org

Media/Arts At the Movies

Coco and strong on the importance of family solidarity, the script (Disney) A-II A young Mexican is stuffed with notions about If you or someone you know PG lad (voice of Antho- the fate of the departed that has been the victim of sexual clash with revealed truth and abuse by an employee or mem- ny Gonzalez) trying ber of the clergy of the Rockford to follow in the footsteps of so are unsuitable for impres- (CNS photo/Disney) Diocese, report the matter to his hometown’s most famous sionable viewers. The visually Newspapers • Catalogs • Mail Service law enforcement in the county musical son (voice of Benjamin Bratt) takes a rich animated fantasy cannot be recommend- Business Cards • Magazines • Brochures in which the conduct occurred supernatural turn on the Day of the Dead. A ed for the youthful audience at which it seems and then please call the hot-line 815-758-5484 good-hearted but slippery character (voice primarily aimed. 121 Industrial Drive • DeKalb, IL 60115 number: 815/293-7540. of Gael Garcia Bernal) becomes his guide and PARENTS: THIS FILM CONTAINS non-scrip- agrees to help return to the land of the living. tural religious ideas. Pray for All Souls While free of any age-inappropriate content Continued on page 11 Media /Arts The Observer | FRIDAY DECEMBER 1, 2017 | 11 Diocese Native Shares Win Books Santa’s Secret In This Christmas New Kids’ Book Want some Christmas books for your family? Fill out this form and mail it ROCKFORD—Christopher Fenoglio’s chil- to The Observer — Christmas Books, dren’s book, in the poetic tradition of “A Visit PO Box 7044, Rockford, IL 61125. Mailed entries from St. Nicholas,” is hot off the presses for must be postmarked by Dec. 15, 2017. Christmas. Please: One entry per family. The winner will re- “Every Christmas, thousands of parents are ceive books in the mail. faced with a dilemma,” Fenoglio says. “Do they Name ______tell their child the truth about Santa Claus or do they wait to enjoy the innocence just one Address ______more year?” ______He hopes his book will help parents move “from Santa Claus to the manger in a loving Town, State, Zip ______and empowering way. ______“The poem recreates the same method and Parish and Town ______words my wife and I used to tell our three children about Santa Claus,” he says. ______Fenoglio graduated from St. Bridget Email ______School in Loves Park and Boylan Central ______Catholic High School in Rockford before at- tending the University of Notre Dame. Phone ______Now living in Nashville, he has won fi rst You may enter online until Dec. 15, 2017, at http://observer. place awards from the Catholic Press Asso- rockforddiocese.org/Christmasbooks. Look for “Click here” for ciation for his Reel Life Journeys columns the entry form. about fi lms, faith and family. He formerly worked for The Tennessee Register. Fenolgio will be signing copies of his “Dear Pope Francis” (top left) by Pope Francis was book Dec. 9, 1-4 p.m., at Barnes and Noble published in 2016. “The Secret of the Santa Box” (CNS, Observer phtos) (bottom left) written by Christopher Fenoglio in CherryVale Mall. and illustrated by Elena K. Makansi is new this Published Nov. 7 by Treehouse Publishing Group of through major book distributors in stores year. Both books are listed at under $20. St. Louis, “The Secret of the Santa Box” is available and online. At the Movies

From page 10 Lady Bird (A24) L Writer-director Gre- R ta Gerwig’s sensitive autobiographical account of growing up in Sac- ramento, Calif., while testing her boundaries with both her (CNS photo/A24) family and her parochial school is pleasing in some respects but teeth-grating in a couple of others. In particular, a sexual encounter in which the title character (Saoirse Ronan) is a bit shy of her 18th birthday necessitates a restrictive classi cation. There is a redeeming wrap-up, but the problematic material that precedes it, including scenes dealing with homosexuality and the moral status of abortion, requires thoughtful discern- ment by grown viewers well-grounded in their faith. PARENTS: THIS FILM CONTAINS underage nonmarital sexual activity, mature themes, a same-sex kiss, marijuana use, coarse language. Roman J. Israel, Esq. The Holiday Season is here! (Columbia) A-III Generally intriguing Increase your business by advertising your products PG-13 character study, set in Los Angeles, in and services to a loyal and dedicated Catholic audience. which an eccentric civil rights lawyer (Denzel Washington)  Restaurants/Banquet Facilities  Bridal Shops nds his ideals put to the (CNS photo/Sony)   test. Though the dialogue in writer-director Dan Gilroy’s drama Gift, Floral and Specialty Stores Travel Agencies sometimes lapses into political rhetoric, the moral shadings of  Health, Fitness, Salons  Legal Services the two main characters keep the proceedings from becoming dull. Possibly acceptable for older teens.  Financial Institutions  Health Care/Retirement PARENTS: THIS FILM CONTAINS o -screen violence, profan-   ity, an oath, a rough term, crude and crass language. Automobile Sales/Repair Landscape/Snow Removal ALSO RATED: The Man Who Invented Christmas — A-II/PG Website ~ Newspaper ~ Television — Catholic News Service For the latest reviews, http://observer.rockforddiocese.org, scroll to the bottom and click on Movie Reviews. For the latest classi cations, see The — Contact — Observer Catholic Newspaper on Facebook. Kevin McCarthy @ 815-399-4300 ext. 385 or email The Offi cial Newspaper of the Catholic Diocese of Rockford [email protected] Please take the time to thank our advertisers The Observer GALENA - FREEPORT - STERLING - ROCKFORD - DEKALB - CRYSTAL LAKE - ELGIN - AURORA 12 | FRIDAY DECEMBER 1, 2017 | The Observer Diocesan Elgin Parish Blesses Guadalupe Shrine

BY MARGARITA Once there, Father Camacho MENDOZA unveiled the image of Our Lady El Observador Editor to more songs and prayers. Father Mulcahey ended the ELGIN—St. Laurence Par- ceremony by blessing the stat- ish recently held a simple ue with holy water. ceremony to bless a statue of Father Mulcahey said that it Our Lady of Guadalupe in an was a “great opportunity for area across the street from the our parish to be united as we church, at the southeast corner face new realities, new situa- of Standish and Jewett Streets, tions,” including the growing here. Hispanic population in the par- Father Robert Camacho, a ish. retired diocesan priest, and Fa- “Do not be afraid, we are all ther Andrew Mulcahey, pastor, children of the same God,” said guided the prayers in Span- Father Camacho. “To be Catho- ish and English, as a chorus of lic means to be universal, to in- voices, guitars and violin, led vite everyone into our faith. So (Observer photo/Margarita Mendoza) Father Robert Camacho (left), a retired diocesan priest, and Father Andrew Mulcahey, pastor of St. Laurence participants in singing hymns this is one of the ways we can Parish in Elgin, take part in blessing a statue of Our Lady of Guadalupe. to Our Lady. do that in peace.” The event started with After the ceremony, about 50 prayers inside the church, then people went to the basement drink), and bread. Sundays at 9 a.m. society… We need all hands the priests started a procession of the parish for champurrado Bilingual Masses are cel- “We look for ways to sur- on board,” concluded Father that ended across the street. (a chocolate-based Mexican ebrated here in St. Laurence on vive and fl ourish within our Mulcahey. Early Bird Sign-Up Ending ... From page 1 Individuals and family rates depend on persons per room, which varies from $450 for a private room to $335 per per- son for four to a room. Price includes round-trip, motor coach transportation to Washington, D.C; two nights’ stay in Washington; two din- ners and a box lunch; activities, including March for Life, the National Prayer Vigil for Life, and more. Info: LiFE o ce, 815/399-4300 or www.rockforddiocese.org/life/march- for-life/ KC Assembly 1702 Sets Dec. 10 Party DIXON—The Knights of Columbus Father Boland As- sembly 1702 Christmas party OSF HealthCare patient Mori Jo Cronkite and her husband, Patrick will be Dec. 10 at the Knights of Columbus Council 690 Hall, 506 W. Third St., here. The day will start with a 10:30 a.m. Mass at St. Flannen Parish in Harmon, before trav- eling to the Dixon hall. Fellowship will start at 11:45 WHEN VOWS ARE a.m. and lunch about 12:30 p.m. The bar will be open for refreshments. Lunch will be ham, roast beef SHARED… and lemon-peppered chicken, …we are unstoppable. When her brain tumor canceled Mori Jo’s wedding mashed potatoes and gravy, beans, corn, macaroni salad, plans, her team at OSF HealthCare vowed to help. Just days after a lettuce salad, dinner rolls and successful surgery, Mori Jo Meling and Patrick Conkrite stood in the desserts. hospital chapel and wed – on the very day they had always planned to. Reservations are due Dec. 1. “You hear about having a dedicated doctor or nurse, but this was above Cost will be $20 per plate. Pay- and beyond. They saved my life, and then they saved my wedding.” ment can be made in advance or on the day of the event. There will be a $100 draw- ing, 50/50 raffl e and door priz- Find Mori Jo’s story and others at osfhealthcare.org/sharing es. Dress for the event is tuxedo or suit and tie. Info: Gary Gornik, 815/994-1368 or [email protected]