2 Christ is our Hope / December 2009 / Dioceseofjoliet.org 3 Un amigo sacerdote de Misuri trabajó preparados para su venida y celebrar su detalladamente haciendo su árbol genealógico, nacimiento. pero se encontró con un gran obstáculo. Su Pero, ¿cómo podemos darle la Advent: bienvenida si no admitimos que investigación se detuvo en una pareja que había necesitamos un Salvador, si no tomamos A time to rediscover venido a este país, desde una pequeña ciudad de tiempo para buscarlo en humildad y en losU Países Bajos desde hace más de 100 años. una oración silenciosa? our need for a Savior Probablemente no hay mejor manera Do you have a petition for Bishop Sartain’s prayer list? You may send it to him at: Él decidió viajar a ese lugar para y le capacitaron para hacer para que al de prepararse para la Navidad que Bishop Sartain’s Prayer List, Diocese of Joliet; 425 Summit St., Joliet, IL 60435-7193. pasar allí unas vacaciones de verano, final sólo encuentre que la vida aún no ha admitir nuestras limitaciones, nuestra llevando consigo su incompleto cubierto todas sus expectativas? debilidad, nuestra incapacidad para árbol genealógico y los nombres de ¿Alguna vez ha tratado de ser el salvarnos a nosotros mismos. En priest friend from Missouri once worked diligently his birth. esta pareja de inmigrantes. Llegó al esposo perfecto, la madre perfecta, el muchos sentidos, esto es lo que Adviento to map out his family tree but eventually hit a brick But, how will we welcome him if we do atardecer y fue directamente hacia la médico perfecto, el maestro perfecto, significa: preparar el camino para wall. His records stopped with the couple who not admit that we need a Savior, if we do municipalidad. Cuando mencionó los para que al final sólo mire que ha caído reconocer que sólo Dios puede llenarnos. not take time to search for him in humility nombres de sus ancestros, las personas en el stress del día? Admitir nuestras limitaciones no es un had come to this country more than 100 years and silent prayer? de la oficina municipal, inmediatamente ¿Ha intentado usted tomar el Evangelio signo de derrota; al contrario, hacerlo es earlier from a little town in the Netherlands. There is probably no better way to los reconocieron. Ya, para el final de la con seriedad queriendo con toda su un signo de dar la bienvenida al Salvador. A prepare for Christmas than to admit our tarde, él se encontraba en la casa de fuerza seguir a Dios sinceramente; para Jesús está listo – y deseoso – para venir He decided to spend a summer vaca- husband, the perfect mother, the perfect insufficiency, our weakness, our incapac- estos parientes lejanos. Ellos, también, que al final sólo descubra que es capaz a nosotros. ¿Lo dejaremos entrar? tion traveling to that town, armed with his physician, the perfect teacher, only to ity to save ourselves. In many ways this is habían estado trabajando en su árbol de pecar como siempre? Las dos grandes ramas de la familia incomplete family tree and the names of watch yourself blow it under the stress of what Advent is all about: preparing a way genealógico y, también, habían llegado ¿Usted nunca ha sufrido una de Dios se encuentran el día que María the immigrant couple. Arriving late one the day? by recognizing that only God can fulfill us. a este punto muerto donde justamente enfermedad seria y sentirse sin fuerzas embarazada saluda a Isabel embarazada. afternoon, he went straightaway to the Have you ever tried to take the Gospel To admit our insufficiency is not a sign se había detenido la investigación de para curarse a sí mismo? Estas dos ramas se vuelven a encontrar

the Bishop town hall. When he mentioned the name seriously, wanting with all your might of defeat; to do so is a sign of welcome to mi amigo. Los dos árboles familiares se ¿Alguna vez ha tenido la sensación una y otra vez – como “anillo al dedo” of his ancestors, the people in the office to follow God wholeheartedly, only to the Savior. Jesus is ready – and desires – complementaron como anillo al dedo. que a pesar de que todo en su vida iba – como una complementación perfecta, recognized it immediately; and, by the end discover that you are just as capable of sin to come to us. Will we let him in? Adviento nos lleva al preciso momento bien – familia, trabajo, ambiente social – cada vez que usted y yo rezamos: “Ven, of the evening, he was sitting in the home as ever? The two great branches of God’s fam- donde nuestro árbol familiar del Antiguo todavía había un vacío profundo que le Señor Jesús.” Así como San Agustín From From of distant relatives. They, too, had been Have you ever suffered from serious ily tree met the day the pregnant Mary Testamento y del Nuevo Testamento se hizo preguntarse qué estaba faltando? escribió en el siglo V: “Nos hiciste para working on the family tree; they, too, had illness and felt powerless to heal yourself? greeted the pregnant Elizabeth. But, these encuentran, el punto de contacto entre ¿Se ha sentido como si fuera usted ti, Señor, y nuestro corazón está inquieto, come to a standstill at the precise place my Have you ever had the feeling that even branches meet again and again, hand-in- nuestro anhelo y el cumplimiento de contra todo el mundo, que era su hasta que descanse en ti.” friend had stopped. The two family trees though everything in your life was going glove with a perfect fit, each time you and Dios, cuando María visita a Isabel (ver responsabilidad luchar sus propias Una vez, un amigo me contó que el fit hand-in-glove. fine – family, job, social scene – there I pray, “Come, Lord Jesus.” As St. Augus- Lucas 1, 39-44). Juan el Bautista, el último batallas, estar solo y ser fuerte contra menor de sus hijos, quien recientemente Advent brings us to the precise point was still a deep vacuum which made you tine wrote in the 5th century, “You have de los profetas del Antiguo Testamento, cada tempestad, conquistar cada desafío había sido admitido como acólito, quería where our Old Testament and New wonder what was missing? made us for yourself, O Lord, and our se encuentra con Aquel, a quién él sin ayuda de nadie – sólo para que al estar seguro de despertarse una mañana Testament family trees meet, the point of Have you ever felt like it was you hearts are restless until they rest in you.” vino a preparar el camino. Incluso en el final admita avergonzado que usted en particular para servir temprano en contact between our longing and God’s against the world, that it was your duty to A friend once told me that his youngest seno de Isabel él reconoce la presencia necesita ayuda, necesita gente, necesita misa; por eso, el durmió en su closet. fulfillment, when Mary visits Elizabeth(see fight your own battles, brave every storm son, who had recently become an altar del Mesías y, por lo mismo, llega un un hombro para llorar? Cuando su papá fue a la habitación a Luke 1:39-44). John the Baptist, the last of the alone, conquer every challenge without server, wanted to make sure he awoke on momento en la historia cuando el árbol ¿Alguna vez ha esperado en lo que las 5:45 de la mañana para levantarlo Old Testament prophets, meets the one help from anyone – only to admit eventu- a particular morning to serve early mass, familiar de Dios del Antiguo Testamento parecía una anticipación interminable vio una nota en la pared con una flecha whose way he has come to make ready. ally, and with embarrassment, that you so he slept in his clothes. When his dad empalma – como anillo al dedo – con el para que Dios le muestre el camino? señalando un vaso con agua en la mesa Even in Elizabeth’s womb, he recognizes needed help, needed people, needed a went into his room at 5:45 a.m. to awaken del Nuevo Testamento. ¿Alguna vez ha admitido que necesita de noche. La nota decía: “Por favor, the presence of the Messiah, and thus shoulder on which to cry? him, he saw a sign on the wall with an Adviento es un tiempo para a Dios? derrame esto sobre mi cabeza.” comes a moment in history when God’s Have you ever waited in what seemed arrow pointing to a glass of water on the encontrar entre lo antiguo y lo nuevo, Estas son las grandes preguntas de la Juan el Bautista apareció en escena family tree of the Old Testament fits hand- like endless anticipation for God to show nightstand. The sign read, “Please pour entre la promesa y el cumplimiento, Biblia, el profundo anhelo de los profetas, como aquel del cual el profeta Isaías in-glove with that of the New Testament. you the way? this on my head.” entre nuestra limitación y la plenitud el dolor persistente del corazón humano. había dicho: “Una voz grita en el Advent is a time for encounter between Have you ever admitted that you need John the Baptist appeared on the de Dios. Es el tiempo para recordar Adviento es el tiempo para que nosotros desierto: ‘Preparen el camino del Señor, the old and the new, between promise and God? scene as the one about whom Isaiah had la perfecta complementación hecha saboreemos estas preguntas y lleguemos enderecen sus senderos’” (Lucas 3, 4). fulfillment, between our insufficiency and These are the great questions of the spoken: “A voice of one crying out in the posible por Dios cuando derramó su a la aceptación más grande de todas: Dios está a punto de pagar el precio God’s fullness. It’s the season for recall- Bible, the deep longing of the prophets, desert: ‘Prepare the way of the Lord, make amor en Jesucristo. Es la oportunidad Nosotros no podemos salvarnos solos. de nuestro rescate. ¡Jesucristo, nuestra ing the perfect fit made possible as God the persistent aching of the human heart. straight his paths.’” (Luke 3:4). God is about para redescubrir con alegría nuestra Nosotros necesitamos un Salvador. esperanza, nace! Él nos ha hecho para poured forth his love in Jesus Christ. It’s Advent is the time for us to savor these to pay the price of our ransom. Jesus necesidad de salvación. A través de este tiempo litúrgico él mismo, esa es una complementación the opportunity for joyfully rediscovering questions and come to the greatest admis- Christ our hope is born! He has made us ¿Le ha sucedido alguna vez que escuchamos el anhelo del pueblo de perfecta. our need for salvation. sion of all: We cannot save ourselves. We for himself, a perfect fit. habiendo hecho lo mejor que ha podido, Israel por el Mesías, escuchamos a Juan ¡Feliz Navidad! Have you ever done your best, done all need a Savior. Merry Christmas! habiendo hecho todo lo que le enseñaron el Bautista diciendo que debemos estar you had been taught and trained to do, Throughout this season we hear the Obispo Peter Sartain only to find that life still had not met your longing of the people of Israel for the Mes- Bishop Peter Sartain ¿Deseas que el Obispo rece por alguna intención en especial que tú tengas? Cristo es nuestra expectations? siah; we hear John the Baptist telling us to Christ is our Hope Escríbele a: Lista de Oraciones del Obispo Sartain. Diocese of Joliet, 425 Esperanza Have you ever tried to be the perfect be ready for his coming, and we celebrate December 2009 Summit St. Joliet, IL 60435-7193 diciembre 2009

Liturgical Calendar: St. Francis Xavier, priest December 3 | St. John of Damascus, priest and doctor of the church December 4 | St. Ambrose, bishop and doctor of the church December 7 | Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary December 8 | St. Juan Diego, hermit December 9 | St. Damasus I, pope December 11 d

4 Christ is our Hope / December 2009 / Dioceseofjoliet.org 5 life of poverty to curing the incurable to enduring abuse from the Scam Alert – Spreading Hope Evangelization Drive members of the Carmelite order, he carried many crosses but never complained. Toward the end of his life, John of the Cross This past week it was brought to the attention of the Diocese of Joliet that some parishioners are The Magazine of the Catholic Diocese of Joliet Saint John of the Cross being solicited by telephone for credit card donations to Christ is our Hope magazine. If you receive prayed “to suffer and be despised.” Most Reverend J. Peter Sartain such a phone call, it is a scam and you should not respond. If you may have already responded to PUBLISHER such a request, we suggest that you contact your credit card company immediately. The “Spread- Doug Delaney Feast day: December 14 Best quotation: “What more do you want, o soul! And what DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS else do you search for outside, when within yourself you possess ing Hope Evangelization Drive,” initiated to raise financial support forChrist is our ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Patron saint: of contemplative life; mystical theology; Hope Magazine, does not include solicitation by phone! Thank You, and we are very sorry Spanish poets; Ta’ Xbiex, Malta your riches, delights, satisfaction and kingdom – your beloved December 2009 • Volume 2: Issue 10 for any difficulty this may have caused you. We have reported this scam to the police. If you have Canonized: Dec. 27, 1726 whom you desire and seek? Desire him there, adore him there. Saint Carlos Briceño Meaning of name: God is gracious; gift of God Do not go in pursuit of him outside yourself. You will only be- any questions or comments, please feel free to contact Carlos Briceno, (815) 834-4060; Tony EDITOR come distracted and you won’t find him, or enjoy him more than Brandolino, (815) 834-4032; or Doug Delaney, (815) 722-6606. Amy Kiley STAFF WRITER Claim to fame: Saint John of the Cross was born in Spain by seeking him within you.” La semana pasada, se comunicó a la diócesis de Joliet que algunos fieles estaban recibiendo of the month Oliva Cervantes in 1542. His father was raised in a noble family, but, when he llamadas para solicitarles donaciones a través de su tarjeta de crédito para la Revista Cristo Es Miguel Moreno decided to marry the weaver’s daughter, he gave up his wealth How he died: At the age of 49, Saint John of the Cross died at Nuestra Esperanza (Christ is our Hope). Si usted ha recibido una de estas llamadas sepa que se SPANISH TRANSLATORS and status. When his father died, John’s family continued to be Ubeda in Andalusia, Spain. Little is known about his death, and trata de una estafa y no debe responder. Si usted ha respondido a esta solicitud, le sugerimos que FAITH Catholic homeless wanderers. By the age of 14, John had taken a job at his relics are in Segovia. se contacte con su compañía de crédito inmediatamente.”Evangelización: Propagar la Esperanza” Rev. Dwight Ezop a hospital in Medina. There he began sacrificing himself by car- es una inicativa para conseguir fondos de apoyo a la Revista Cristo Es Nuestra Esperanza. En esta CHAIRMAN ing for patients with incurable diseases and mental illnesses. He iniciativa no se solicita donaciones a través de llamadas telefónicas! Gracias, y sentimos Patrick M. O’Brien PRESIDENT AND CHIEF entered the Carmelite order and was ordained in 1567. mucho por cualquier inconveniente que esto pueda causarle. Nosotros hemos reportado esta EXECUTIVE OFFICER During his priesthood he joined with Saint Teresa of Ávila estafa a la policia. Si usted tiene preguntas o comentarios, por favor, llame a Carlos Briceño, 815- Elizabeth Martin Solsburg DIRECTOR OF CUSTOM PUBLISHING/ in reforming the order and focused on returning to a life of 834-4060; Tony Brandolino, (815) 834-4032; Doug Delaney, (815) 722-6606; ó Miguel EDITORIAL DIRECTOR prayer. Many of the monks were displeased with their plans, and Moreno, (815) 834-4038. Joanne Eason DIRECTOR OF CREATIVE SERVICE members kidnapped John of the Cross. They imprisoned him for Jillane Job nine months. He eventually escaped from Toledo, Spain, taking EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Catholics Come Home … for Christmas only the poetry he had written in the cell. In his lifetime he wrote Patrick Dally ART DIRECTOR several books on spiritual growth and prayer. Whether you are a less-active Catholic coming Lynne Ridenour GRAPHIC DESIGNER/WEB MASTER home for Christmas – or a practicing Catholic Why he is a saint: Saint John of the Cross was commonly looking to extend a Christmas welcome – may Janna Stellwag known to sacrifice himself and “take up his cross.” From living a 12 Abby Wieber God bless you as you celebrate the birth of Christ! GRAPHIC DESIGNERs Father Bill Ashbaugh of contents Christmas art from children reflects Dcn. Tom and JoAnne Fogle Father Joseph Krupp the joy of the season Dr. Cathleen McGreal Tim Ryan CONTRIBUTING WRITERS San Juan de la Cruz

Table Table The magazine recently asked children from Tom Gennara Phillip Shippert Lisa Boyer’s classes at St. Dennis Catholic CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS School in Lockport to give their artistic impres- Día de la fiesta: 14 de diciembre 16 InnerWorkings sions of Christmas. 18 PRINT MANAGEMENT Patrón: de la vida de meditación, la teología mística, Christ is Our Hope (USPS 25288) is a membership llevándose la poesía que había escrito en la celda. Durante publication of the Catholic Diocese of Joliet, 402 S. los poetas españoles, y la ciudad de Ta’ Xbiex, Malta Independence Blvd., Romeoville, IL 60446-2264. Published monthly except for February and August. Canonizado: 27 de diciembre de 1726 su vida San Juan de la Cruz escribió varios libros sobre el

Gift subscription rates are $15 per year. Individual Santo issues are $2.50. Send all subscription information and Significado del nombre: Dios es misericordioso; regalo crecimiento espiritual y la oración. What you’ll get address changes to: Christ is Our Hope magazine, 402 S. Independence Blvd., Romeoville, IL 60446-2264; (815) 834-4060 or email magazine@dioceseofjoliet. de Dios org. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Christ out of this issue is Our Hope magazine, 402 S. Independence Blvd., Por qué es un santo: A San Juan de la Cruz se le conocía Romeoville, IL 60446-2264 ©Christ is Our Hope magazine, Diocese of Joliet. ©FAITH Publishing Es conocido por: San Juan de la Cruz nació en España comúnmente por sacrificarse y “cargar su cruz.” Desde

Service. FAITH is a trademark of FAITH Publishing del mes Service. No portion of Christ is Our Hope magazine 6 Ask the priests What do we mean when we say in the may be published, broadcast, rewritten or otherwise en el 1542. Su padre fue criado por una familia noble, llevar una vida de pobreza hasta sanar el abuso de algunos reproduced or distributed in whole or in part without Creed “the communion of saints”? prior written authority of the Diocese of Joliet and/or pero cuando decidió casarse con la hija de un tejedor, dejó miembros de la orden de los Carmelita. Él cargó muchas FAITH Publishing ServiceTM. For reprint information or – Fathers Ryan Larson and Matthew Pratscher other questions regarding use copyright material, contact the Christ is Our Hope magazine editorial offices at the su riqueza y posición. Cuando su padre murió, su familia cruces, pero nunca se quejó. Casi al final de su vida, Juan de 24 Diocese of Joliet. Periodicals postage paid at Romeoville, 7 Catholic Life Every Symphony Unfinished IL and at additional mailing offices. no tenía hogar, por eso, deambulaban. A la edad de 14 la Cruz pedía “sufrir y ser detestado.” – Father John Welch, O.Carm To submit story ideas and news años, Juan aceptó un trabajo en un hospital en Medina. Fue 8 Spirituality From a Crib in Bethlehem comes a light in Send e-mails to [email protected] entonces cuando empezó a sacrificarse en el cuidado de los Frase más conocida: “¡Qué más quieres, oh alma! ¿Y qué For subscription information the darkness – Father Thomas Rosica Please call (815) 834-4060 pacientes, cuyas enfermedades eran mentales e incurables. más buscas afuera, cuando dentro de ti mismo posees tus 10 Year of the Eucharist The Eucharistic Theology of St. En el año 1567, ingresó a la orden de los Carmelita donde riquezas, deleites, satisfacción y reino ... tu amado a quién John’s Gospel – Father Robert Schoenstene fue ordenado sacerdote. deseas y buscas? Deséale ahí, adórale ahí. No lo busques 24 Liturgy Gathering as the body of Christ Durante su sacerdocio conoció a Santa Teresa de Ávila, fuera de ti. Sólo te distraerás y no lo encontrarás, ni lo – Father Douglas Martis y ellos trabajaron juntos para reformar la orden de los disfrutarás más que si lo buscas dentro de ti.” 28 Reflexiones de fe La Virgen de Guadalupe carmelitas, cuyo propósito era regresar a una vida de oración. y la Navidad – Miguel Moreno Muchos de los monjes no estaban contentos con sus planes, Cómo murió: A la edad de 49 años, San Juan de la Cruz 31 Last word Reflections on the birth of Christ y, por eso, lo raptaron y lo encerraron durante nueve meses. murió en Úbeda en Andalucía, España. Se conoce muy poco 26 28 – Carlos Briceño Juan de la Cruz pudo escapar de la ciudad de Toledo, sobre su muerte, y sus restos descansan en Segovia.

Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe December 12 | St. John of the Cross, priest and doctor of the church December 14 | St. Peter Canisius, priest and doctor of the church December 21 | St. John of Kanty, priest December 23 | Solemnity of the Nativity of the Lord December 25 | Feast of St. Stephen, first martyr December 26 6 Christ is our Hope / December 2009 / Dioceseofjoliet.org 7 Ask the priests: Who can be saved? Every Symphony Unfinished Father Ryan Larson is a parochial vicar at Saints Peter and Paul Parish in Naperville. Father Matthew Pratscher is a parochial Father John Welch, O.Carm, is the prior provincial of the Most Pure Heart of Mary Province of the Carmelite order. vicar at Visitation Parish in Elmhurst. To submit questions to Father Ryan or Father Matt, e-mail them at [email protected]. His office is in Darien, Ill.

I have been struggling with Who can be sible to know of God’s was buying a Twinkie, a Coke, and a newspaper. The ment us, are gradually shaped prayer. My mind wanders a lot, Q: saved? existence and his laws young woman behind the counter said, “Is that all?” I through discipline and grace. and I don’t know what to expect through our natural glibly replied, “Isn’t that enough?” She said, “We never We are not getting tougher. Jesus said, “I reason and conscience. Our desires are changing. Q or listen for. How do I know if have enough.” I had to agree, but, at that moment, I A: am the way and Everyone is account- The desires of our hearts are God is talking to me? the truth and the life; able to God. More is just wanted lunch. more and more in accord I with God’s desire for us and no one comes to the demanded of those It is common to wonder if God hears Father except through who have truly en- Why is it we are never satis- unfulfilled, ill-at-ease, never the world. We begin living in us and responds, especially when me” (John 14:6). People are countered the Gospel fied? Sure, there may be times finally settled. Certainly, there a consonance of desire. Or, prayer seems uneventful. Your very saved through Jesus, or of Jesus Christ. But, when our lives seem to be just can be a neurotic restless- as Saint Teresa of Avila said A desire to hear God is possible be- they are not saved. everyone, no matter right. But, more often than not, ness, but a low-grade ache simply, “And now, I want what cause God has made us to be in relationship So does this mean how little or how much we are restless. The simple for more tugs at most of us. you want.” with him, which necessarily implies the possi- that all non-Christians they know about God, Christian response is: we One theologian observed: bility of mutual communication. Furthermore, go to hell? No. can turn toward him are made for God. All of our “Every symphony is unfin- Song and celebration he has given Christians the Holy Spirit to well Acts 17:22-31 re- and be saved or turn desires are ultimately a desire ished.” In every possession, up within us and realize this union expressed cords Saint Paul’s away from him and be for God. And, until we are one in every relationship, in every The hungers of the heart in prayer. speech in Athens. In condemned. with God, we are restless. accomplishment is an incom- are ultimately good. And, food Our prayer can be inhibited by many dis- it he speaks to people Someone who knows Remember Saint Augustine’s pleteness. abounds in God’s creation. tractions, expectations and the avoidance of who are truly ignorant that the Catholic counsel: “Our hearts are rest- We are made to yearn, to Those things that properly wounds, conflict or change. It is important for of the God of Israel, Church was founded less, until they rest in Thee.” desire, to ache, to hunger and nourish those hungers, which us to humbly open ourselves to God rather but he gives them as necessary by God thirst until we find something speak to that deep-down ache, Catholic than hide from him. We need to bring our credit for unknowingly through Christ and God, the first contemplative or someone that meets the should be celebrated. We hun- whole selves to the Lord – including our anxi- worshipping God and refuses to enter it or depths of our yearning. The ger for wholeness, intimacy, eties, guilt, and fears – and to set aside time to says they could have remain in it could not We Christians believe the Christian story tells us that justice and peace. We have spend with him in silence with “nothing to do.” the hope that God be saved. However, true story of our lives is a love only God is sufficient food for family, friends, places, prayers Sometimes we approach prayer as if it de- would overlook their “those who, through no story. One telling of the story the hungers of our heart. and experiences which God life the Priests pends upon us or is about us, but prayer is previous ignorance of fault of their own, do says that God, the first con- provides for us to give us sus- not just about receiving answers, but about him. not know the Gospel of templative, gazed on us and Transformation of desire tenance on our journey.

Ask recognizing where God is and how he may be However, in Romans Christ or his Church, made us alluring. Attracted Truly enjoying God’s gifts drawing us toward conversion and a stronger 1:20-23, Saint Paul but who nevertheless by one hair of our head, God But, our hungers and our sometimes is difficult for us. It union. We may hope or demand God to com- talks about how even seek God with a sincere had to fall in love with us. It desires can lead us down goes against our Catholic sus- municate through grand signs or an audible pagans who lived dur- heart, and, moved by is not we who first loved, but troubled paths. Our God-given picion that behind every good voice. Although some people may be able to ing the time of the Old grace, try… to do his God who first loved us. We spiritual longing, which may be thing lurks a catastrophe. The hear God directly speaking to them, for most of Testament and did not will as they know it… were born loved. And that love expressed in many ways – in- Irish lady was greeted with, us, God’s voice is more subtle. God, who made have God’s law revealed those too may achieve wounded our heart, making it cluding creative, erotic energy “Isn’t it a great day!” She our hearts and knows them, often goes deeper to them faced the real salvation.” (For a fuller ache for love’s fulfillment. – is dangerous for us if not responded, “Yes, and we’ll be than our ears and speaks to our hearts through danger of being con- explanation, read the Our pilgrimage through life carefully tended. We need to paying for it!” the simple and unexpected. demned for their sins. Catechism 836-848.) is to find the One who made be realistic and have a rever- We will “pay for it” if we While in prayer, God can use our thoughts, He explains it is pos- – Father Ryan Larson us this way. We want that One ence for that energy within us. cling to the good things of words, imagination, memories and emotions to come back and finish the One contemporary spiritual creation, trying to tease from to speak to you. While participating in devo- it bears and the profound sense of peace and love affair. Our search takes writer comments: “Spiritual- them the nourishment only tional exercises such as Eucharistic adoration, thanksgiving it produces, even amid difficul- us through God’s creation, ity is about finding the proper God can give. But, enjoying lectio divina, Ignatian meditation, the rosary, ties. To your surprise, the object of God’s com- and we ask that creation to tell ways, disciplines, by which to them properly, holding them and the Stations of the Cross, something often munication may not be a special task for you, us something about the One both access that energy and in freedom and giving thanks, catches our attention, such as a word, concept, but, more likely, something more personal or a who wounded us. Creatures contain it.” The goal is not the can bring us life. Surprisingly, prayer, or memory. God may be using that to deeper love for a particular aspect of the faith. do speak of their Creator but annihilation of desire but the we may discover a deep-down speak to us. In interpreting your prayer, it is helpful to turn then point down the road, urg- transformation of desire. joy. We may even hear our- Search where God is in it; ask him to show to Scripture, tradition and the wisdom of the ing us to continue the quest. Over a lifetime, our desires, selves humming, “Jesu joy of you. You will know its authenticity by the fruit saints. –Father Matthew Pratscher It is natural to be restless, which often dissipate and frag- man’s desiring …”

Feast of the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph December 27 | Feast of the Holy Innocents, martyrs December 28 | St. Thomas Becket, bishop and martyr December 29 | St. Sylvester I, pope December 31 8 9 shepherds from fields outside of Bethlehem, From a Crib in Bethlehem a few wise men from the east, an old, pious Jewish couple who comes a light in the darkness longed for Israel’s salvation, day and Father Thomas Rosica is chief executive officer of the Salt and Light Catholic Media Foundation and Television Network (saltandlighttv.org night in the Temple. in Canada). He is a weekly contributor to the Zenit International News Service (zenit.org) and serves as a consultor to the Pontifical Council for Social Communications. He can be reached at: [email protected]. And now, maybe even us. At Christmas we he liturgy of Christmas is one of those magic moments in God’s purposes. The are invited to possess our Christian tradition. Who of us cannot be captivated by Lukan Gospel story the innocence and the birth of a baby, born of simple, poor parents in a little of the birth of Jesus the hope of a child. calls for the whole Yet, that child within village practically lost in obscurity? Yet, the powerful message world, and not only of this great feast we are about to celebrate makes it clear us is not a helpless for Israel, to welcome child unable to speak, thatT the story of the birth of a baby in a stable was no idyllic country folktale. the birth of the Son of one totally dependent Jesus was born into a world in which it seemed, on the surface at least, that David. We are invited on others. That child salvation and peace had already been achieved. to follow shepherds within us is our adult and kings, saints and self transformed by The Roman Republic had come to an end. sinners, and that long cortège of witnesses God. Jesus’ birth at Caesar Augustus was emperor and had himself of all generations as they seek the light in the Bethlehem changed declared a god. Monuments were built to darkness to share their message of good news the course of world honor Augustus’ birth as the beginning of good with a world steeped in darkness. history and gave that news for the world. Another monument to him And yet there is a tremendous and rather history a new direction in Asia Minor proclaimed Caesar Augustus terrifying paradox at the heart of the Gospel and meaning. On as the “Savior of the World.” It is against this story: this great heir to the Davidic line comes Christmas night, in background that the evangelist Luke sets the to inherit his ancestor’s throne in the form of the darkness of prayer birth of Jesus. We know the Lukan Infancy a tiny, powerless baby wrapped in swaddling and in the mystery of Narrative (Luke 2) so well clothes and lying in this wonder, Jesus Spirituality that we often forget a manger (Luke 2:12). gives us new direction what lies at the heart Beyond the charm of the story, Jesus’ birth heralds and vision. He is the of its message of Luke’s message is clear: no the beginning of life light in our darkness. deceptive simplicity. event in our shadow-filled history of in the world of death, He is our peace. On The society of the protest of hope this Holy Night we are Augustus’ time was the world is alien to the coming of the against all fear, the not given one new, an alienated one: a Savior. No power, however violent and promise of everlasting mighty and glorious world divided into oppressive, escapes the reach of God’s light in the midst of so throne from which our conquerors and much darkness, the God will rule over us, victims, occupiers and purposes.” consolation of truth but two ways by which the occupied, the very against despair. Those God will reign among wealthy and the starving poor, those who were who accept this paradox are invited to make it, us: from a crib in free and an ever-growing population of slaves. in the light of the cross and the resurrection, the Bethlehem and from And, this alienation not only existed in society’s standard of their deepest attitudes. a cross in Jerusalem. structures of sinfulness, but also in peoples’ The message of the Incarnation is not an We cannot have one hearts. The old Roman spirit had collapsed. invitation to behold an innocent baby lying in without the other. They Roman virtues were gone, and the Roman a manger, but, rather, to take sides with God authentic peace means a full and unconditional go together. gods were declared dead. There was peace on who agitates for reform and shatters the status acceptance of God in the midst of our own The real work of Christmas begins as we the surface, but political, social, economic and quo. It is an invitation from God to become ambiguity and darkness. The true peace of accompany the infant Jesus from Bethlehem to spiritual unrest underneath. People back then instruments of dialogue and peace. The child Christmas is given to all those who long for Nazareth to Capernaum and up to Jerusalem. truly yearned for a genuine sense of salvation, of Bethlehem, who later becomes the man of healing, forgiveness, redemption, reconciliation, Christmas does not ask us to pretend we were peace, wholeness, harmony and healing. the cross of Jerusalem, means it’s no longer unity, justice and peace each day of their lives. back in Bethlehem, kneeling before a crib. It Luke’s story is one of God writing straight with business as usual, folks. The drama of Jesus’ birth reminds us that the asks us to recognize that the wood of the crib our human, crooked lines. Beyond the charm of More than anything, the Christmas story is elite and powerful, those who benefited most became the wood of the cross – that the child the story, Luke’s message is clear: no event in a vision of how God is present in the world. from keeping the status quo, were the least of Bethlehem is the Man of Jerusalem, the Man our shadow-filled history of the world is alien to It is not the political and ecclesiastical power open to insights and solutions to the injustices of Sorrows and of the Cross, the one who lays the coming of the Savior. No power, however structures of the world that grant salvation and the heartbreaks of this world. Who caught down his life for us, the one who is our guide violent and oppressive, escapes the reach of and peace. The birth of Jesus reminds us that on to the whole thing in the beginning? Some and model. 10 Christ is our Hope / December 2009 / Dioceseofjoliet.org 11 While the three Gospels narration of the institution has taken away the sins of and First Corinthians differ a of the Eucharist? The Fourth the world. In the farewell The Eucharistic Theology bit in the exact wording, the Gospel is the last to be discourse of chapters 13-17, core of each is the same. In written. It seems to come he amplifies the meaning of the Last Supper, Jesus gave from late in the first century, the Eucharist meal, “Remain of St. John’s Gospel new meaning to two of the perhaps 40 or so years in me as I remain in you. Just elements of the Passover Meal after the First Letter to the as a branch cannot bear fruit Father Robert Schoenstene is a priest of the Diocese of Joliet, ordained in 1975. He did his seminary studies at the Pontifical Col- – the unleavened bread and Corinthians and perhaps 15 on its own unless it remains lege Josephinum in Columbus, Ohio. Following ordination he did graduate studies in classics at Loyola University, and biblical studies at the Pontifical Biblical Institute in Rome from 1978 to 1981. He taught Scripture at the Pontifical College Josephinum from 1981 to 1988 and the cup of wine. Saint Paul to 20 years after the writing on the vine, so neither can at the University of St. Mary of the Lake/Mundelein Seminary from 1988 to the present. He helps on weekends at Christ the King Parish in witnesses in his letter, written of the first three Gospels. you unless you remain in me. Lombard. This is the first part of his series on the Eucharist in honor of next year’s diocesan Year of the Eucharist. in the middle of the fifth (These three are often termed I am the vine, you are the decade of the first Christian the Synoptic Gospels because branches. Whoever remains century, to the practice of they share in me and I the church in continuing to much of their in him will proclaim the death of the telling of the This sacrificial bear much Lord in the Eucharistic meal. story of Jesus meal was clear- fruit, because Saint Paul also witnesses to in common.) ly a major part of the life without me the Christian belief that the Saint John of the very early church, you can do elements of the Eucharist are presumes nothing” (John a real sharing in the body that so, when the Gospels 15:4-5). and blood of Christ: “The Christians repeat the narrative of Saint John cup of blessing that we bless, know the indicates that is it not a participation in the practices of the Last Supper, they the Lord’s Year of blood of Christ? The bread the church are not presenting Supper is that we break, is it not a – that they something new to their the source of participation in the body of have been readers. They are af- the disciples’

Christ?” (I Cor. 10:16). baptized and unity with the Eucharist This sacrificial meal was that they firming a practice with Jesus; the clearly a major part of the life celebrate the which Christians were source of of the very early church, so, Eucharist. their unity when the Gospels repeat the In the Last familiar.” with each narrative of the Last Supper, Supper, other; they are not presenting he gives a meditation on and the true source of the something new to their the meaning of what the Christian life, which is readers. They are affirming church does when she ultimately the life of God, a practice with which commemorates the death of as is revealed in the unity Christians were familiar. the Lord in His Body and His of the Father, Jesus and the When we look at the Blood. Paraclete. Jesus’ sacrificial Last Supper narrative in The washing of the feet, death is the means by which the Fourth Gospel, that of a gesture of hospitality and the disciples have become Saint John, this repetition service missing in the other washed clean and the model of the words of institution Gospels, occurs at the place of the practice of Jesus’ gift of is missing. The Last Supper that a reader would expect eternal life in daily practice, runs from 13:1 to 17:25 the Words of Institution. “If I, therefore, the master in the Johannine Gospel. Saint John expects his and teacher, have washed It is far longer than any of readers know what the other your feet, you ought to wash the three earlier Gospels, accounts narrated; he also one another’s feet” (John 13:14). but it does not contain the knows the church has been But, it is not only in his he first three of the canonical Gospels, Matthew, Mark and Luke, contain the familiar words. The narrative celebrating the Lord’s Supper. Last Supper scene that contains the washing of the He is interested in what it Saint John meditates on the words of institution in their narration of the Last Supper. Saint Paul’s First feet in chapter 13 along with means rather than how it meaning of the practice of Letter to the Corinthians, which was written earlier than any of the Gospels, the description of Judas’ originated. The washing of the Lord’s Supper. In Chapter also contains these familiar words: “The Lord Jesus, on the night he was reception of the piece of the feet is an act of service in 6, he has already given a long handed over, took bread, and, after he had given thanks, broke it and said, bread that Jesus has dipped. which the Master welcomes and beautiful contemplation ‘ThisT is my body that is for you. Do this in remembrance of me.’ In the same way also the Chapters 14 through 17 are his disciples and makes on the meaning of the Bread cup, after supper, saying, ‘This cup is the new covenant in my blood. Do this, as often as a long farewell discourse that them clean. Here Saint John of Life to his readers. The Jesus speaks to the disciples illustrates what it means to rest of the articles of this you drink it, in remembrance of me.’ For as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, gathered with him. proclaim the death of the series will deal with that you proclaim the death of the Lord until he comes” (I Cor. 11:23-26). Why is there no familiar Lord, the saving event that chapter. 12 Christ is our Hope / December 2009 / Dioceseofjoliet.org 13 Catholics Come Home … for Christmas

he joy and hope of Christmas make it a popular and Father breaks open these ach Christmas time for less-active Catholics to reconnect with words to explain what they mean at Midnight today. On this day it is through the their faith roots by attending Mass. With the di- minds and hearts of children that Mass, ever- ocesan Catholics Come Home initiative reaching the faithful experience the Christ- greens, nativity out to such believers, this Christmas promises to mas story. Father speaks in a spe- scenes, Christ- beT especially inviting. cial way to the children (and to the masE carols and candlelight Liturgically, Christmas is unique in that it has four Masses child in everyone) about the birth draw the faithful into the mys- with four different sets of readings. As such, the faithful can of Jesus and his coming into hu- tery of Christ’s birth. While man lives, not only on this day, but choose to attend the Vigil (Christmas Eve) Mass, the Mass at every day. So much in the world the stillness of night express- Midnight, the Mass at Dawn, the Mass During the Day – or all today can draw us away from the es the peace of salvation, the four. Then, the season continues to unfold with several weeks Christmas story; however, listening liturgy expresses the joy and

of additional liturgies. to the words of Scripture and the hope of Emmanuel – “God Catholics This collection of stories explores two of the most beloved homily, the faces of children ignite with us.” Christmas liturgies – the Christmas Eve Mass (popular with a new sense of wonder and, more importantly, a renewed sense of Attendees can usually pick up families) and the Midnight Mass (popular with music lovers). who Jesus is in human lives. worship materials before the Information on finding Mass times and locations is on Page 14. As the Mass continues, the Mass to help them participate, Whether you are a less-active Catholic coming home for Liturgy of the Eucharist draws and ushers are often on hand to Come Home Christmas – or a practicing Catholic looking to extend a Christ- the faithful into a deeper sense of help spot open seats. mas welcome – may God bless you as you celebrate the birth the sacred. Through the words Many parishes celebrate with of Christ! of the Eucharistic Prayer, our choral and instrumental music simple gifts of bread and wine are that starts about a half hour changed into the Body and Blood before the liturgy. “Christmas of Christ. As God’s people, gath- seems like it just fills the whole t 3 p.m. on As people gather in the church ered around the Altar, the faithful church with the joyful music Christmas Eve, narthex, the atmosphere buzzes make immediate preparations for and the joyful noise of proclaim- homes across with a sense of excitement and the reception of the Eucharist by ing Christ’s birth and awaiting anticipation. After greeting friends praying together the Lord’s Prayer the second coming,” said Kelly the diocese are the faithful enter the nave of the and sharing a sign of peace. Then, Rapp, music director of St. Pat- busting with church, where their feelings turn filled with overflowing joy, the rick Parish in Yorkville. Before activity.A What is this activity? into reverence. Those who have assembly approaches the altar and this year’s liturgy, she said, her prepared for this special celebra- receives the Body and Blood of Je- parish adult and teen choirs are The faithful are preparing to go Joliet Litho-Print Company to church for the 4 p.m. Christ- tion at home now have time to sus. Singing praise to God for the performing a Christmas cantata mas Eve Mass. reflect on that preparation and gift of his Son brings added joy to – a multi-part composition with continue making preparations for the reception of the Eucharist. Af- a seasonal text. These preparations might in- this Christmas Mass. ter all have received, the congre- After the preludial music, the clude putting on special clothes; Looking around the nave of the St. Joseph Parish in Joliet stands decorated for Christmas. gation pauses in silence to spend Midnight Mass begins with a filling the cooler with homemade church, they see beautifully lit time in conversation with Jesus, hymn, such as a well-known goodies destined for the post-Mass Christmas trees and many color- night. Those near the Nativity joy are heard. As the preparation sharing the deepest thoughts of carol. Christmas party at Grandma and ful poinsettia plants. A Nativity scene are drawn into the conversa- phase is over, the parishioners now minds and hearts. Then comes the opening Grandpa’s home; opening one scene might catch the eyes of the tion of the children, and smiles of enter more deeply into the mystery Only then it is time to leave this prayer, one of the Mass’s present before church; reviewing children, who, during this prepa- understanding appear. of the Eucharist, and, for the next special place and complete this spe- many texts expressing the joy the words to the hymns the choir ration time, make their way over The children’s choir sings a hour, minds and hearts all center cial celebration. The faithful do so of Christmas. “They’re good will be singing at Mass; spending to the scene to look at Jesus, Mary, prelude that brings the thoughts on the Mass for full, active and knowing they continue the mission words for the season of light a few minutes talking about the Joseph, the shepherds, the animals of all present to anticipation of the conscious participation. to share Jesus with others by living coming into the world, banish- importance of Christmas in mod- and the angel. While there they celebration of Mass. Then, as all During the Liturgy of the Word, as disciples of Jesus. ing the darkness,” said Father ern life; or saying a prayer for safe talk to each other about Jesus’ stand to sing the entrance hymn, the words of Scripture detail God’s – Sister Sharon Marie Stola, O.S.B., is the diocesan Richard Pighini, pastor of travel before leaving the house. birth and the story of Christmas the sounds of voices filled with coming into the lives of humans, director of the Office of Divine Worship. Maternity of the Blessed Virgin 14 Christ is our Hope / December 2009 / Dioceseofjoliet.org 15 Mary Parish in Bourbonnais. the Eucharist. Pope John Paul II wrote, “No one Indiana, where he graduated magna cum Also during these Introductory Rites, the par- can fail to see that the divine Eucharist bestows laude with a degree in history in 1984. ish usually sings the Gloria, which proclaims the an incomparable dignity upon the Christian peo- He completed his seminary formation at words of the angels to the shepherds: “Glory to ple. … Christ is truly Emmanuel, which means Father Siegel selected the Pontifical North American College in God in ‘God with Rome from 1984-1988, where he earned the high- us.’” as new auxiliary bishop his Baccalaureate in Sacred Theology est, and Mid- (STB) cum laude from the Pontifi- peace night cal Gregorian University in 1987, and to his Mass continued his theological studies at the people on usually Pontifical University of St. Thomas Aqui- earth.” concludes nas. He was ordained to the diaconate Then with a by Cardinal William Baum at the Basilica the Litur- favorite of St. Peter in Vatican City on April 14, gy of the carol. 1988. Father Siegel returned home to Word un- Rapp said be ordained to the priesthood on June folds the her parish 4, 1988, by Bishop Joseph Imesch at Christ- always the Cathedral of St. Raymond Nonnatus mas tale ends in Joliet. After ordination, Father Siegel from the with “Joy completed his studies in systematic the- Mary McCann ology at the University of St. Mary of the Gospel of to the Bishop Joseph Siegel stands outside the parish where he is pastor, Visitation in Luke. World,” Elmhurst, the day after he was selected to be an auxiliary bishop in the diocese. Lake, Mundelein, earning a Licentiate in A homily and Sacred Theology (STL) in 1990. follows Father ope Benedict XVI with the pope and his fellow bishops Father Siegel was assigned as parochial during Paghini recently named throughout the world. An auxiliary vicar at St. Isidore Parish, Bloomingdale; which said his bishop is also given a “titular see” St. Mary Immaculate Parish, Plainfield;

Father Joseph New the priest parish since he is not a diocesan bishop. The St. Mary Nativity Parish, Joliet; and the helps ex- rings Siegel as a new “titular see” is usually the name of a Cathedral of St. Raymond Nonnatus, plain the its bells auxiliary bishop diocese somewhere in the world that where he also served as diocesan master

forP the diocese. has been suppressed at some time of ceremonies. He has been pastor at Bishop story and when the its rel- liturgy in the past (meaning, absorbed into Visitation Parish in Elmhurst since 2004. evance to ends – In making the announcement Bishop another diocese.) It is an honorary title In addition to his parish ministry, Fa- the lives even at 2 J. Peter Sartain said: “I was delighted given to the bishop to remember in ther Siegel has also served the diocese in of the a.m.! to learn that Pope Benedict had named prayer those who have gone before us. many capacities. He has been a member faithful. Paul Father Joseph Siegel as auxiliary bishop Bishop Siegel’s titular diocese will be of the Presbyteral Council for nine years, To the noted of the Diocese of Joliet. Father Siegel is a Pupiana, northern Africa, in modern- including three years as chairman and liturgist about the native son with deep roots in the city of day Tunisia, near the ancient city of was appointed to the Diocesan Board of of St. Mass at Joliet and the entire diocese, and he has Carthage. Consultors. He has been director of Con- Joseph Midnight, served a number of parishes with great “I was both humbled and honored tinuing Formation for Priests, a member Parish in “There’s love since his ordination to the priest- when I received the unexpected news of the Diocesan Vocation Board, the Bradley, just hood in 1988. He is deeply respected that Pope Benedict had named me to Priest Personnel Board and served as the Jeanine some- by his parishioners and brother priests, serve as auxiliary bishop of Joliet,” said Dean of Eastern Will County. With the Paul, the thing holy and he will bring many gifts to this new Bishop-elect Siegel. “I am deeply grateful Catholic Conference of Illinois, he served Liturgy about the ministry. I personally look forward to to our Holy Father and Bishop Sartain, on the Executive Committee as a priest of the quiet hour working in collaboration with him in and I pray that I will be worthy of the representative and was chairman of the Eucha- that it is. the pastoral care of our people. I express trust they have placed in me as I strive to Catholics for Life Department. He is rist that Most of my gratitude to Pope Benedict for this be a faithful shepherd after the heart of currently chairman of the Steering Com- comes the town appointment and to Father Siegel for Jesus. I ask for the prayers of our clergy, mittee for the Joliet Diocesan Year of the next feels A Nativity scene sits in front of the altar at St. Andrew the Apostle Parish in Romeoville. [has] accepting with generosity and humility a religious and laity that I may serve the Eucharist and Eucharistic Congress and especially settled surprising call from God once again.” people of this diocese with love, wisdom is a member of the Bishop’s Respect Life unifying at the Midnight Mass. “Some people in. Everything is just really pared back. It’s just a He will be ordained bishop on Jan. and courage.” Advisory Board. He is a Fourth Degree might look to the overflowing Masses at Christ- great time to get out of the rat race and just sit 19, 2010 at 2 p.m. at the Cathedral of St. Father Siegel, 46, was born in Joliet Knight of Columbus and a member of mastime as, ‘Gee, where are these people the and be.” Raymond in Joliet. and was raised on a farm in Lockport the Knights of the Holy Sepulchre. rest of the year?,’ but I don’t look at it that way. I Rapp added, “When a child is born, there’s Bishop-Elect Siegel will hold the title Township. He was baptized at the In his spare time, he enjoys playing think it’s hopeful. I think it’s wonderful that there’s just so much joy and love, and I just feel that at of auxiliary bishop, meaning he will Cathedral of St. Raymond Nonnatus and the piano and organ, reading, classical something that moves in people and stirs them Christmas.” assist Bishop Sartain in the pastoral attended the parish grammar school. music and Chicago Cubs baseball. He and makes them want to be together in Mass at administration of the Diocese of Joliet. He attended St. Charles Borromeo High is the youngest of nine children. His Christmas,” she said. To contact your local parish for Christmas He will receive the office of teaching, School Seminary in Romeoville from parents, Francis and Marie Siegel, are The remembrance of Jesus’ birth can also re- Mass times, visit dioceseofjoliet.org/par- governing and sanctifying as a bishop. 1977-1980 and continued his stud- deceased. His aunt, Sister M. Clotine mind the faithful of the true presence of Christ in ishes.asp. He will exercise his ministry in union ies at St. Meinrad Seminary College in Siegel, OSF, was a Joliet Franciscan. Story and Nativity photography by Amy Kiley 16 Christ is our Hope / December 2009 / Dioceseofjoliet.org 17

Christmas art from children reflects the joy of the season

he magazine recently asked children from Lisa Boy- er’s classes at St. Dennis Catholic School in Lock- port to give their artistic impressions of Christmas. On the following two pages, are some of the works T that they came up with. Christmas Art 18 Christ is our Hope / December 2009 / Dioceseofjoliet.org 19 cutting down a tree to put in Looking back on our fam- Bûche de Noël (Yule Log) the fireplace that was used to ily’s Christmas Eve, I see my Christmas prepare the Christmas sup- parents united their diverse One of my earliest and sented both sides of the per. A popular story is that cultures, traditions, and fondest childhood memories family, including salmon for Napoleon I issued a procla- friends effortlessly that night Culinary Traditions took place on Christmas the meatless Wigilia custom mation requiring households with one thread – love. Eve. My mother, from a small and duck for le réveillon. in Paris to keep their chim- The bûche de Noël has a town near Paris, and my My favorite element of the neys closed during the winter rolled cake (a basic sponge father, from Warsaw, filled meal was the finale – the because he believed cold air cake), filling, icing and our home with a delightful bûche de Noël (Yule log). from the flue caused health decorations. The fillings and blend of traditions from each Mostly, my excitement was problems. French bakers decorations can vary – wheth- of their native lands – as well from the anticipation of taking invented this dessert as a er chocolate or fruit, butter- as the United States. a bite of the magnificent choc- replacement which the family cream or mousse, ganache or Around 9 p.m., in the back- olate-covered cake, decorated could gather around for their powdered sugar, etc. Below is drop of candlelight and Euro- with candied holly and berries. holiday celebrations. one recipe suggestion. pean and American decora- With my eyes barely able tions, my father commenced to reach over the top of the our Wigilia Dinner (Polish) table, I had a perfect view of or le réveillon (French) by my mother’s carefully crafted

breaking the opłatek in half. French classic. Christmas In his native language, he The bûche de Noël on the paid homage to the birth of le réveillon table is equiva- Jesus. Each family member, lent to the turkey on the by breaking and eating a Thanksgiving table. Many piece of the opłatek, showed variations exist for the recipe unity with Christ. He or she and the decorations, but the Culinary Traditions cross cultures the dinner table is Butter Cookies then passed the remainder to components are the same: a popular location for celebrating 1 pound butter 2 teaspoons vanilla next person with a blessing of the rolled cake (le gateau the birth of Christ. To help with this 2 egg yokes Red & green candied good health, joy and happi- roule), the cream filling la( ness for the coming years. crème), and the frosting and year’s festivities, employees of the 1 cup brown sugar maraschino cherries, 4 cups flour quartered When the ceremony was decorations (le glaçage et la St. Charles Borromeo Pastoral complete, our family and décoration). CenterA in Romeoville are divulging their familial friends lingered for the next The legends surrounding Cream butter with egg yokes and brown sugar. Add Christmas traditions. Enjoy their stories of baking flour and vanilla and stir into a stiff dough. Form into couple of hours over twelve its origin are hazy. As Christ- and cooking to celebrate Jesus – or put on your one-inch balls and press down once with floured fork. dishes that symbolized the mas came to replace the apron, read the accompanying recipes and begin Top each with cherry piece. Bake 8 to 10 minutes at twelve apostles. Having Winter Solstice celebrations, 375 degrees. Makes 6 to 8 dozen. – Joyce Donahue twelve is a Polish tradition, France carried on the Celt your family’s own Christmas culinary traditions. but the assortment repre- tradition for a Yule log by Making the cookies each bed in an unheated bedroom Butter Cookies year was a family affair. When because they were best if they Bûch de Noël (Yule Log) we were small, my brother had a cool place to “cure.” 4 eggs, separated, room temperature 1/3 cup sugar 1/2 teaspoon baking powder Because my mother’s Hungarian neighbor in the and I helped Gram or Mom When my own two sons 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa 1/8 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon baking soda family has been in the 1930s. That was shortly by “smushing” the dough were young, I let them 1/2 cup sugar 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 cup roasted hazelnuts, skins United States for a number after my grandparents got balls flat with a fork. (It was help with the “smushing” 1/2 cup all purpose flour 1/3 cup water removed, finely ground of generations, our recipes married, when they were our job to remember to keep process. Now that they are don’t really reflect our living in Chicago. The bite- dipping the fork in flour, or it adults, these cookies are Heat oven to 375 degrees. Line a 15x10x1-inch jelly completely for thirty minutes. German-Polish heritage. sized butter cookies, with would stick.) After the cherries still a Christmas favorite. roll pan with parchment paper. In large glass bowl, beat egg Unroll cake. Spread chocolate mocha hazelnut butter- However, my mom passed their bright red or green were added and the cookies I will be passing on the whites until soft peaks form. Gradually add 1/2 cup sugar cream across entire cake. Evenly sprinkle ground hazelnuts. down to me a recipe my cherries on top, have always baked, Mom put the cookies recipe this year to my new until stiff peaks form. In smaller bowl beat egg yolks and With the aid of the towel, roll cake into a log. Shape log into grandmother got from a been my Christmas treat. into tins, stored under her daughter-in-law. vanilla three minutes. Gradually add 1/3 cup sugar, beating desired roundness and refrigerate for one hour. two additional minutes. Stir together flour, cocoa, baking Place the log on a large, oval platter, preferably white. Cut powder, baking soda, and salt. Add dry mixture alternately three inches, on a diagonal, off the end of the log and, with almerle and hildegard cookies are three of the favorites. The with water to yolk mixture until batter is smooth. Fold buttercream, reattach on the side creating a branch. Cover German Cookies recipes have been passed down from generation to generation chocolate mixture into beaten egg whites until well blended. the entire log with the rest of the buttercream, creating a and have strong flavors of anise, almond and spice. They Spread batter into pan. Bake 12-15 minutes until top bark-like pattern. Decorate the platter and log with meringue The Sisters of St. Benedict of Ferdinand, Indiana (my remind us of our German heritage and traditions. springs back. Loosen cake from pan. Invert onto a tea towel mushrooms and any other Christmas décor to create a community) has recently opened a bakery called Simply Divine. To order cookies from Simply Divine, call (812) 367-2500 sprinkled with powdered sugar. Remove parchment. Roll woodsy Christmas scene. Since many of the sisters are of German descent, they make or visit simplydivinebakery.org. cake with the towel to prevent the cake from sticking. Cool – Liz Michalski and sell German cookies. Springerle (traditional for Christmas), – Sister Helen Jean Kormelink, O.S.B. Photography by Amy Kiley 20 21 Scottish Shortbread ily’s Scottish shortbread that entered Ellis Island in 1906 with Baklava my grandmother’s mother, Martha Nelson McPhail. It might have been altered over the years: This Christmas my husband My grandmother, Agnes McPhail Anglin, came to this country and I decided to create a from Blantyre, Scotland, in 1906 when she was seven years old. Scottish Shortbread Christmas food tradition for She was an amazing woman, the only surviving daughter of the 1 1/2 cup sugar 5 cups flour our new family. His family hails McPhail clan, which boasted of seven sons. The family moved to 1 pound butter 1/2 cup corn starch from the Andes Mountains America and first went to work in the coal mines of Pennsylvania 1 stick oleo (margarine) in Bolivia. My family comes before settling in southern Illinois to work the coal mines there. mostly from Ireland and “Granny” left school after the fourth grade to help her mother in Mix with hands until like pie dough and then like Play- Germany. the boarding house they ran for the miners. She was a marvelous doh. Put in cookie sheet and press down. Prick all over For Humberto and me, this combination of “old country” and “down home.” with a fork. Bake at 300 degrees for 35 to 40 minutes. Christmas will be our first to- Her recipes ran the gamut from Scottish haggis to country – MaryEllyn Duffin Peterek Popcorn Ball Ornaments gether as a full-fledged married couple. We needed the ingredients chicken and dumplings. The following is the recipe for the fam- for a food tradition all our own. We settled on baklava – a Greek pastry made with phyllo dough, honey, and nuts. Baked Manicotti The smell of popped two (to ensure they would The essential ingredients are: Baked corn still brings to mind pass inspection!). 1) It takes a lot of time. This recipe will never be made Making the Shells approximately six to seven 1 pound ground beef my family’s Christmas Where the idea of the any other time of the year. Manicotti (Crepes): seconds until top surface 1 egg tradition of making and dowel Christmas tree came 2) It’s cooperative. Especially because we don’t know à la Mama 5 eggs is dry, but bottom surface 1 package frozen chopped Christmas sharing popcorn ball from to display the “orna- what we are doing, it will have to be a group effort. 1 1/4 cup unsifted all- is not brown. Flip over with spinach, cooked and well ornaments with all who ments” I’m not really sure. 3) It’s uniquely ours. Dalpiaz purpose flour spatula and cook another six drained visited our home during the As a little girl, it was my 4) It tastes heavenly. 1/4 teaspoon salt to seven seconds. Remove 1 tablespoon grated parme- holidays. Since my mom job to make sure the tree 5) It’s portable. This is a recipe my 1 1/4 cup water for cooling. Continue making san cheese worked outside of home branches were always full Our family stretches from Sweden to California and from mother used to make shells until all the batter is 1 tablespoon finely chopped full-time when my brothers and that, as a token of our Connecticut to Bolivia. Our food tradition needs to fit in a carry- Combine all ingredients used. You do not have to parsley every Christmas as Culinary Traditions and I were growing up, friendship, everyone who on bag. Even if it turns out that Humberto and I make dreadful in a medium mixing bowl. continue to oil the pan; the 1 teaspoon salt our Christmas traditions came to our home during baklava, it makes me happy to think that, 20 years from now, a side dish. My wife, Beat with electric mixer until crepes do not stick to it. 1/4 teaspoon pepper centered on things that the holidays got an “orna- someone will be saying, “Here come Aunt Sharon and Uncle Carolyn, has contin- smooth. Preheat an electric The finished crepes may be could last the whole ment” off the little tree by Humberto with the baklava!” ued Mama’s tradi- frying pan to 375 degrees stacked on one another until Brown onion in butter until season. our front door. I still have tion by also making and brush it very lightly ready to fill. golden brown. Add the meat

On popping day we and use our tree although it Baklava it for our family each with olive oil. Using a large and brown thoroughly. Add would all get up early to has seen mending, repaint- year. Our children and spoon, put two tablespoons Making the Filling: remaining ingredients and begin the preparations: ing and many replaced 1/2 cup honey 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon batter onto the skillet. Spread 1 tablespoon butter or mix well. Dad on the popper, Mom branches over the years! 1 cup water 1 (16-ounce) package phyllo grandchildren really batter quickly with the margarine making the syrup and we Someday, the little tree will 1 cup butter, melted dough look forward to having back of the spoon, making 1/4 cup finely chopped Stuffing the Shells kids cutting ribbon and pass to my children who, 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest 1 teaspoon vanilla extract it and so do we. 4x6-inch oval crepes. Cook onion (Crepes): paper squares in which to along with my grandchil- 1 pound chopped mixed nuts 1 cup white sugar 24-oz. jar of marinara sauce wrap the balls. Soon, paper dren, continue our family bags full of popcorn would tradition of sharing popcorn Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Butter a 9x13-inch bak- Coat the bottom of a litter the kitchen as we kids ball ornaments and friend- ing dish. Toss together cinnamon and nuts. Unroll phyllo 9x13, flat baking pan with waited for our favorite part ship blessings with all who and cut whole stack in half to fit the dish. Cover phyllo with about 1 cup of marinara – forming the balls and, of visit their homes during the a damp cloth while assembling the baklava, to keep it from sauce. Now you are ready course, snagging a taste or holidays. drying out. Place two sheets of phyllo in the bottom of the to assemble your crepes by prepared dish. Brush generously with butter. Sprinkle two placing a heaping tablespoon Popcorn Ball Ornaments to three tablespoons of the nut mixture on top. Repeat of the filling on the crepe and 1/2 cup sugar 1/2 teaspoon salt layers until all ingredients are used, ending with about six then rolling it up. Place the 1/2 cup light corn syrup Few drops of food coloring sheets of phyllo. Using a sharp knife, cut baklava (all the rolled-up crepes in one layer, 1/4 cup margarine 8 cups popped corn way through to the bottom of the dish) into four long rows, closely packed in the pan. then (nine times) diagonally to make 36 diamond shapes. Coat them with more of the Heat sugar, corn syrup, margarine, salt and food coloring Bake in preheated oven 50 minutes, until golden and crisp. sauce and sprinkle them with in a four-quart, heavy, metal pan over medium-high heat. While baklava is baking, combine sugar and water in a grated parmesan cheese. Stir constantly until simmering. Remove from heat and add small saucepan over medium heat and bring to a boil. Stir Cover the pan with foil and popped corn and stir until popcorn is well coated. Cool in honey, vanilla and lemon zest, reduce heat and simmer bake in a 350-degree oven slightly. Shape into 2 1/2-inch balls and place on wax paper; 20 minutes. Remove the baklava from the oven and imme- for 30 minutes. The recipe cool completely. Wrap individually in plastic wrap or sand- diately spoon the syrup over it. Let cool completely before will probably make enough wich bags and tie. Cover with wrapping paper and ribbon if serving. Store uncovered. manicotti for two 9 x 13 desired. – Susan Drake – Sharon Houk Téllez (Recipe: familyownedmarkets.com) pans. – Deacon Joe Dalpiaz 22 Christ is our Hope / December 2009 / Dioceseofjoliet.org 23 Jesus has brought joy to them too.” I think Christmas work within our lives. So often we ask, “Where connection with God at the time. I almost felt like is the time of bringing joy to each other, especially to is God? If he loves us so much, why does he not somehow this song was special for me. How does Seminarians share a special those who have no one to bring joy to them. All of us show himself to us? Why is he not more present?” it affect me now? Every time I hear it now it takes Christmas memory are invited to do so. These questions are very good to ask because they me back to that time. It really does. It takes me demand that we think to our own lives and reflect back to that particular Christmas. I feel like there from their pasts Michael Bannon: on those instances in which God does, indeed, is something deeper in the words, in the lyrics of I remember when I present himself and his love to us. the song. There is something really, really pro- Recently, Christ is our Hope asked the seminar- was a little kid I walked In Christmas we find the beginning of the an- found going on that I haven’t quite understood. ians of the diocese to recall a special Christmas into the Cathedral of St. swers to these questions. The incredible answer memory. Here are some of the responses: Raymond [in Joliet], and is that, in fact, he has shown himself to us. The Deacon John Lindsey: I remember the manger invisible God has shown his face to man – and Many of us have fam- Deogratias Massawe: scene and all the lights that face is the face of Jesus. On Christmas we ily traditions. We live In Tanzania, the that had been set up. I remember Jesus the Lord, whom Isaiah describes by them. They help to country where I grew just thought: “Wow, this as “Wonder-Counselor, God-Hero, Father Forever, define us. They help us up, Christmas is the is a great place to be.” It Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:5). tell our story. Some tra- most joyous celebration kind of really started my We can say this because, on his birthday, Jesus ditions fade away with of the church for the faith journey. I felt like I was at home that day. That brought to mankind the love of God our Father, passing generations. family. As a child among was where I really need to be and where Christ was who desires to guide and counsel us through an New ones arise. When the many things I liked calling me to be. I believe I was probably 15 at the unpredictable, difficult and often-times sorrow- I was a college student about Christmas were time. I remember feeling a sense of peace – like the ful world. In the end he wishes to bring to us his at Loyola University in the family togetherness, Savior was born and I needed to love him and adore love, placing within our hearts an inexplicable Rome, I remember visiting a Christmas market in nice food, new clothes, him. peace. Piazza Navona. Merchants were selling Nativity gift exchanges and beautiful Christmas songs. I never I know that peace in a particular way when I figurines of the Holy Family everywhere in the sat down and meditated deeply on the meaning Paul Solomon: am with my family for Christmas. It is easy to al- square. As I traveled in Rome and throughout of Christmas until much later. I mainly associated I have two Christmas low the stress of preparing for Christmas to get in Italy, in the many urban centers and small towns

Christmas with tangible things and those that ap- memories. The first one the way of this experience of family. Surely, there I visited, I would find in churches and town halls Seminarians pealed to my feelings. was when my grandfa- is delicious food to make, the perfect presents displays of the Nativity, or Presepio, welcoming One time, while teaching Sunday school, I asked ther passed away. That to buy, beautiful decorations that take days to the Christ-child. Many of the displays contained students what they had planned for Christmas. Since Christmas was probably put up and those Christmas pictures that require entire villages with hundreds of figurines repre- they were still children, around eight to 10 years the first time my mom’s hours of “plastic-faced” smiles. However, these are senting local people engaged in the everyday ac- old, I expected them to mention things like beauti- side of the family had all a preludes to the times with our families and tivities of work and leisure. Yet, they all seemed ful clothes, food, gifts exchanges, etc., as I used to gotten together since his friends when – if just for a moment – everyone is to be directed to the place, usually outside the do when I was their age. But one little girl told me death. I don’t believe we smiling and simply being with their loved ones. village, where Jesus Christ was born. For me, the something that captured my mind. She told me, “This got together for Thanks- I encourage you, in that very moment, to take Presepio is a constant reminder that the Incarnate Christmas I told Mom not to buy me clothes because giving that year. Essentially, it was just a great time notice of that peace and joy, and to thank God God comes to us in the ordinary and everyday I have the previous ones. I also told her not to buy of unity in the family like never before. It was a very because there the everlasting Father has placed circumstances of our daily lives. When school me many gifts. Instead, we can take that money to different atmosphere in the family. You could tell his Wonder-Counselor, God-Hero, and Prince of ended that year and I returned from Rome, I buy something nice for the guy who sleeps under that there was a piece of the puzzle missing. I think it was Peace – Jesus himself – in your midst. came home with many photographs, great sto- bridge and to buy something good for the refugees in a way the Lord used to bring us together as a family ries and my first Nativity set of the Holy Family. that camp.” I asked her why she decided to do that. where, in the past, we kind of had gone along doing Matthew Malicki: Since then, it has been my tradition of adding She said, “Because I want to get more blessings from our typical passings, typical relations. Because of that I remember when I figurines to my Nativity set and each Christmas God and also because God does not look so much at experience, the Lord brought us closer together as a was little we would go watching the Presepio come to life. However, my what I have on the outside but inside. Those people family. The other memory also dealt with a death. For to the vigil Mass for story would not be complete without recognizing have nothing to eat, and I want to share with them the duration of my life, as far as I can remember, on Christmas at St. Joseph the great saint who is responsible for giving us my little joy of Christmas and show them that the Christmas day we would get together with my dad’s Parish in Bradley. I the Christmas crèche. Tradition states that Saint baby Jesus has brought joy to them too.” best friend, my godfather, because my dad doesn’t remember always being Francis, in the year 1223, visited the mountain I was impressed with her answer because I had have any living relatives except for one. One of my really excited about village of Grecio to celebrate Christmas for the never thought about that at that age. Hearing a little godfather’s brothers had passed away and then his that particular Mass, people. Saint Bonaventure tells us that, for the girl tell me God is not so much interested about how mom died in the same especially the music. celebration of Midnight Mass, Saint Francis set I look from the outside, but from the inside, and that year. The absence of their One particular year up an altar in the niche of some rocks near the she wanted to share her joy of Christmas with the presences was really felt – I don’t remember how old I was; I was maybe town square because the Franciscan hermitage refugees and the poor was powerful. I realized that we at the time, but, at the 10 – they were playing “Silent Night.” That song could not accommodate the crowds. He also could learn something spiritual even from the kids. same time, it brought us has always really meant a lot to me, and I found prepared a manger, gathered hay together and This little girl made me think that Christmas is not so together as a group. out later that my mom used to sing that to me brought in animals. When the townspeople gath- much about doing things for myself, but extending a when I was a baby. Something hit me about that ered, they saw brilliant lights, heard hymns of hand, sharing my time and gifts with the people who Michael Pawlowicz: song, about the lyrics – about how profound and praise, and witnessed Saint Francis chanting the have never had a chance to enjoy Christmas in their The feast of Christ- deep the words were and what they meant and Gospel and preaching around the manger. “Glory lives and who know nothing about Christmas. As mas is a stunning re- how soothing it was. I remember all of a sudden to God in the highest and on earth peace to those this little girl said, “I want to show them that the baby minder of God’s hidden feeling a lot of peace and feeling a more direct on whom his favor rests” (Luke 2:14). 24 Christ is our Hope / December 2009 / Dioceseofjoliet.org 25 in speech, in song, in Our participation in the liturgy gesture, but also in mind and heart. While it is true happens because we are mem- that, when we gather to bers of the Mystical Body of Christ. Saint pray, each brings his or Paul explains this magnificent idea for us Gathering as the body of Christ her own prayers, none should come with any in the First Letter to the Corinthians.” other motive than the praise of God. of Christ. By the sacra- not an amorphous mass, Father Douglas Martis is the director of the Liturgical Institute at the University of Saint Mary of the Lake in Mundelein (usml.edu/liturgicalinstitute/liturgicalinstitute.htm) and a priest of the Diocese of Joliet. He will examine various aspects of the liturgy as part of the preparations for the Year of the Eucharist, which starts next April. The Christian com- ment of baptism, we or a group of discon- munity joined in public become members of his nected individuals who prayer is decidedly not a body and are “equipped” happen to be in the group of anonymous in- with the ability to join same place and the same dividuals who happen to his prayer to the Father. time. There is order be gathered in the same When the commu- and structure both to place and at the same nity gathers to pray, it the gathering and to its time. They are called must pray as the body prayer. brothers and sisters in the of Christ. The commu- Each member of the Lord – related by nothing nity prays as a kind of community has a role less than blood and water “corporate” Christ. In to play in the liturgi- – the blood of Christ and the liturgy the word “I” cal act. This means the the water of baptism. rarely means one of us highest value of liturgical They are perpetually individuals. It usually expression, in this sense, Father trying to connect every refers to this assembly is that each person plays aspect of their lives with that prays as one. The his or her part fully. Not the Mystery of Christ. “my” in the liturgy does only that, but that each Assembling into one not mean “mine alone.” plays only that part. In Douglas Martis body is only possible for It is the voice of Christ this way, rather than those willing to do so. that speaks here; we making all the members They must come to the fold our voices into his. the same, each will re- liturgy with openness The liturgy is the most spect the unique quality and charity, ready to exquisite presentation and contribution of the pray together, ready to of the church, since, in other. share and celebrate what her liturgical prayer, the The church has really matters, ready to church shows herself resisted calling this care for one another. In most perfectly – both as gathering an “audience” some ways the liturgical the bride of Christ and because the members of assembly never really as his own beloved body. the community are as- exhausts its role because This “my” in the liturgy sembled for a collective concern for others ex- is the Body of Christ; it action, collective prayer, tends beyond the walls is Corpus Christi. rather than watching of the building. The initial task, then, or merely listening. Our participation of the liturgical assembly They do not come to in the liturgy happens is to form, or better yet, be entertained; to be because we are members to be formed into the impressed by the dis- of the Mystical Body body of Christ. Saint course, no matter how of Christ. Saint Paul Augustine commanded: eloquent; nor by the explains this magnificent “Become what you re- music, no matter how idea for us in the First ceive, receive what you phenomenal. Liturgical ome time ago, as I was praying in a chapel, I looked up and speak. “Gather,” they in the box, gathered Letter to the Corinthi- are.” The Christian peo- celebrations should not saw the hymnals neatly arranged in the book holders of tell us. Yet, if we stay at in the same place. But, ans. Each one of us, ple, gathered as Christ’s be evaluated as if they each pew. On the cover of each book, the word “Gather” that level – at the level they do not get to be an in his or her own and body, joins with him, its were performances. of gathering only – we airplane until the pieces unique way, has some- in gold lettering popped out against the dark background. head and spouse, in of- We want to learn to have missed an essential are assembled! thing to contribute. fering a unified prayer of live a Christian life that “That’s our problem!” I said almost out loud. aspect of the liturgy. The same is true of the Since the Eucharistic praise. In union with the feeds into and is nour- S I think of a model church at prayer. The Liturgy is the prayer of whole church and with ished by the celebration For nearly a genera- others that we have to tion: “We gather together airplane that I can buy at worshiping assembly is Christ to his Father, we Christ, we participate in of the sacred mysteries. tion, we have been told “gather” in church. Our to sing the Lord’s praises. the local hardware store. formed into one body can only participate in it his prayer to Father. This This is living liturgi- and have been telling songs reinforce the no- …” The hymnals, too, All of the pieces are there on a variety of levels: fully if we are members gathering, moreover, is cally. 26 Christ is our Hope / December 2009 / Dioceseofjoliet.org 27 an inhabited space and not just an Finding Christmas meaning empty building with figures in it. I’m hoping to build a business designing and constructing in Nativity settings Nativity scenes. It combines my Christian faith and my desire to Growing up in a large Catholic Nativity settings a business. In my express that faith in religious art. family on a farm on Weber Road investigations I could find no one I hope it helps make Christmas in Lockport had a profound who specialized in Nativity settings. more meaningful to the community. influence on my outlook on life. Many manufacturers made (and I try to visit the churches that have My folks were involved in many make) figures, and they offered my settings and try to get a feel for church organizations. some rather rudimen- the response from the community. One I fondly remem- tary settings, basically The most gratifying is when you ber was the Christian little lean-tos. see children stop by and kneel Family Movement. down or sit down in front of the Dad was one of first Combining my car- scene and stare at it. I believe they lectors/commenta- pentry skills with are probably getting a complete tors after Vatican II, my art skills, I was message from it. They are looking and Mom was active able to come up at the figures, the newborn baby, in many women’s with designs that I and internalizing a little bit more of service clubs, such as thought were good the whole scene, bringing it more the Altar and Rosary to create a com- to life. It is a story they read about Society and Council plete setting for a but now they really have a sense of Catholic Women. It Nativity, doing com- of feeling what the first Christmas was essential to them plete buildings that fit might have been like.

that all of us children the figures properly, My be brought up learning the impor- both by building them to scale and Every one of these settings

tance of prayer and Sunday Mass. combining elements of the environ- I design is like a rebirth of story ment in which the Nativity would be the Christmas story for me. Throughout my Catholic educa- situated. I wanted to make sure each Each one is different, and I get to tion, I found that artistic ex- fitted its location properly – that it meditate on it and express how I pression was very important complemented the architecture of feel about Christmas and my total in virtually everything I did. I the church so that it looked like it faith. That’s why I enjoy it so much graduated from the College of St. belonged there. because I’m not just doing some Francis with an art degree. I worked nice artwork. Our world today as a carpenter for a couple of years The first Nativity set I did was has so much commercialism at and then returned to run the family in 2002, and that was for the Christmas; the season is so hec- farm with my brother for the next Cathedral of Saint Raymond tic, and there’s so much focus on 15 years. Making another career in Joliet. My brother [Father gift-buying and holiday parties and change, I went back to carpentry Joseph Siegel, who was recently so forth. I get a lot of satisfaction until 2008, working for a large appointed to be the new auxiliary out of doing the Lord’s work; doing residential stair company when the bishop for the diocese] was the something that helps bring Christ housing market collapsed and I was associate there, and he asked if I and the story of Christmas to more laid-off. I had been with the com- was interested in doing something people; and maybe giving them pany nine years and, being over 50 to enhance the Nativity scene. I a renewed perspective on things, years old, I took this turn of events was thrilled to be given the oppor- getting people’s attention back to pretty hard. tunity, and, after doing considerable where it belongs. The biggest thing research, I came up with a design to remember is this season exists In trying to make sense of why and built it for Saint Raymond’s. It because of the birth of our Lord. this had happened, I discovered included a lot of little details, not just Hopefully, people will realize this that I needed to turn this setback the buildings, but vines growing on and put Christ at the forefront of into an opportunity rather than a the stucco walls and some accesso- their holiday celebrations. liability. I looked at my skills and what ries for the figures. The little donkey I have been doing with Nativity sets had saddle bags, and I included a Art Siegel’s work can be viewed at and thought that perhaps the Lord basket of fruit and bread because artisticendeavors-idc.com. He can was trying to direct me into using the Holy Family was traveling. be reached at (815) 474-1126 my talents to tell his story. I decided Inside the scene were herbs drying or at [email protected]. I would look seriously at making on the walls, so it really looked like Left: Art Siegel’s Nativity set at the St. Charles Borromeo Pastoral Center in Romeoville 29 Reflexionesde fe La Arquidiócesis de Chicago, la diócesis diócesis la Chicago, de Arquidiócesis La Gratitud y esperanza es lo que nos debe unir durante durante unir debe nos que lo es esperanza y Gratitud estos en nosotros de pidiendo está Dios algo Si en participes diciembre, de 12 este que a invito Te You can read Miguel’s column in English at at English in column Miguel’s read can You dioceseofjoliet.org. la próxima y definitiva venida de Nuestro Señor. Él Señor. Nuestro de venida “No definitiva y decimos: próxima eso la por sabemos, unen lo se clamor nosotros ese En vendrá, pronto!” ¡Ven nuestra de Señor. significado tardes, el está allí voces; nuestra de nuestras todas celebración la es Navidad La celebración. esperanza. sin Navidad la celebrar podemos sólo es ¿Cómo Navidad tiempo. la este Jesús Sin otras de posible. es no requiere No, valor, Jesús? darle para que, vacía, muchas a fiesta una encontramos allí Y tratando – “regalos.” como mismos cosas nosotros estamos más y vez, tal – regalos con personas “Navidades” las de vacío el llenar sentido. de sin y vacía actividad una – regalos Ofrezcamosle “tiempo.” que cosa otra cuesta es nos no más que momentos, regalos a los de uno chamarra Es una dar “tiempo.” fácil nuestro más mucho ofrecerle Es es dificil qué encontrar. pero dar frío, fácil más pasa Es que humano. alguien calor dar ofrecerle pueda le difícil que qué pero tiempo el hambre, tiene alimentar quien a pueda pan que un difícil diálogo un qué en pero tiempo guantes, nuestro unos dar amistad es fácil alguien a Qué brinden espíritu. le que manos, damos. nuestras nos no ofrecer pero cosas, Damos fraternidad. y en organizando está parroquia tu que mes, Este actividades las Guadalupe. de Señora de Nuestra de Amor el Fiesta más la vez una recordará nos recuperar a Morenita la ayudémonos También, regalos nosotros. los por que Dios dejemos No Navidad. la para de tiempo sentido el nuestro Ofrezcamos el en Jesús. a establo del secuestren Niñito al viendo medir de seguir trata podamos que que registradora caja nos una no nadie y que pesebre permitamos No dinero. en esperanza. amor nuestra de nuestro alegría, nuestra Navidad de ¿Tu razón la Él. sin quite Navidad hay no y Jesús, es Navidad regalos? tendrá o Jesús a tendrá Español: en Católica Carismática a Renovación nombrado ha Sartain Pedro espiritual Obispo Nuestro director como Carm, O. Cilia, español José en Padre Católica Carismática traido Renovación ha la de nombramiento Su diócesis. diferentes los nuestra de en miembros los a alegría y Dios ¡Que entusiasmo diócesis. nuestra de a oración servicio de este en grupos José Padre a bendiciendo continue Iglesia! la Católicos Casa! a Bienvenido … extrañamos ¡Te mes este Regresen: empezarán diócesis la nuestra y presentará se Rockford de donde que televisivos avisos Iglesia, de serie nuestra de una grandeza la Ve belleza, católicos. la ser de historia, orgullosos y felices sentir hará nos catolicosregresen.org. visita o televisión la Christ is our Hope / December 2009 / December our Hope is Christ Dioceseofjoliet.org / ! Que significa: Ven, Señor Jesús, no tardes tardes no Jesús, Señor Ven, significa: Que ! Como creyentes católicos, la Navidad es el el es Navidad la católicos, creyentes Como la es Navidad la católico, creyente el para Además, Otra fiesta que nuestra Iglesia Católica celebra en este este en celebra Católica Iglesia nuestra que fiesta Otra relativisa que creyente, al ridiculiza que mundo un En o consciente que, el absurdo tan mundo ¡Qué Maranatha agradecimiento que se eleva a Dios desde lo más más lo desde Dios a eleva se que determinado agradecimiento tiempo un en pues, alma; condicion del de “siendo profundo Él humanidad, la que de sino historia Dios, la con de igualdad su y a apegó se servidor, no de divina, condición la tomando 6-7). nada, 2, a redujo se (Filipenses hombres” los a uno semejante hizo se hizo se humano, ser hizo se el Dios desborda que Exactamente, humildad de hecho Este nos que y nosotros. de confunde nos que no que cotidiano respuesta otra pensamiento nosotros en tiempo tener un en puede así no alegra convierte se Navidad La Encarnación, su gratitud. a la sea gracias porque, Dios, de a agradecer Encarnación La para Redención. la llevó se nosotros que hacia vino liberación la nosotros un para es Jesús significa de Dios Encarnación La un Gólgota. nosotros el en para es cabo a repetirse; a volverá no ya que hecho gratitud. de llena nos que recuerdo Jesús decir, es cristiana: esperanza gloria la su de toda con celebración nosotros a volverá es: Señor, constante Nuestro clamor nuestro eso, Por majestad. y celebramos ¡ creyentes los Nosotros esperamos! te que el viejo e intacto manto de San Juan Diego. Estos Estos Diego. Juan San de manto van intacto e especial, viejo el manda una cumpliendo que personales peregrinos sacrificios ofreciendo y de través rezando a Dios, cantando, de recibieron que matachines favores Los los por Morena. Virgen la su de así intercesión mostrando la memoriables tocar tiempos de en dejan como no danzan mariachis Los Salvador. gratitud. del su y Madre la contento a voz su Dios de elevar de amor y el vivir guitarras debe sus se como y tal fiesta, una Toda pueblo. su de medio en película la estrenó se 2000, año el el En “¡Cómo Navidad. la es titulada: mes Seuss Dr. del por libro habla el se en película basada esta En Navidad!” ningún la en y robó regalos Grinch los de y Navidad la su de de ni minutos Jesús 105 de nombre el situaciones menciona se otras muchas momento en y esto como Navidad! Tal la de Jesús nacimiento. a robar quiere nos permitir? a ¡Alguien vamos más: lo ¿Se haciendo! está lo Jesús? ¡Alguien sin Navidad una celebrar a ¿Vamos por religiosas, celebraciones las de seculariza que eliminar fe, de la posible lo en de tratará que supuesto, comportamiento, su de lenguaje, su Pascua de la eso, visión, Por su religioso. coneja” elemento la todo de vida, su “celebración la en la convierte en se difuntos cristiana los de la vísperas las ahora, de y, memoria la o fantasmas” y brujas las quiere de ¡Se regalos.” “celebración los de lo ya “celebración la dicho, en mejor Navidad o, Jesús, sin “Navidad” la celebrar haciendo! están ¡Alto! construir! a ayudando estamos ser debe Navidad inconscientemente, la que lo repensemos y Detengámonos todos. para y mí para ti, para n este mes de de mes este n nuestro diciembre, pensamiento Cerrillo del va al Tepeyac del establo pequeño

En todo el mundo católico, el el católico, mundo el todo En Contra todo aquello que pueda pueda que aquello todo Contra E este recuerda se diciembre, de 12 en especialmente – acontecimiento puede se ahora desde Ya México. grupos ciudades, diferentes por ver la hacia caminando personas de encuentra se donde lugar Villita, diciembre de 12 un pensado, ser Morena Virgen la 1531, de tosca la en impregnada quedó nativo pequeño un de túnica quien y Diego Juan llamado “como mismo, así describe se hijos.” tus de pequeño más el acontecimiento, asombroso Este católica fe la extendió y sembró mexicano, pueblo el todo en de sentido y identidad dándole asombroso este Además, unidad. todo a recordó acontecimiento, todo a y americano continente el de alegría la católico, pueblo el Ese Dios. por amados sabernos razón Virgen, la de mensaje el es permanencia y aparición su de Juan de tilma la en nosotros entre ama. nos realmente Dios Diego. tan y corta tan afirmación Una largo lo A ama. nos Dios profunda: experimentó María vida, su de testigo es Ella amor. este de misma la a y, Dios de amor del evangelizadora, mensajera, vez, nueva una de constructura del civilización la civilización, amor. de Belén. De la Virgen María, María, Virgen la De Belén. de mañana, la de estrella la es que que Señor, Nuestro Jesús a mediodía. del radiante sol el es a llega que Morena, Virgen La no tiene fin. tiene no recordarnos el amor de Jesús Jesús de amor el recordarnos Jesús, y humano ser el por recuerda nos nacimiento cuyo venida.” definitiva y “próxima su dos acontecimientos, Dos que alegría una y celebraciones

es el Director de la Oficina Diocesana del del Diocesana Oficina la de Director el es

y la Navidad la y [email protected]. La Virgen de Guadalupe de Virgen La Moreno Miguel a él con comunicarse puede Usted Hispano. Ministerio 28 30 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 31 Catholic Sisters Cardinal lauds New CD featuring Pope asked about Cuban dissident Extreme poverty Mother Angelica Local bishop stated Inquiry into the Synod for church in save more than 300 House action to Pope Benedict’s Caritas in Veritate – condemned to is a violation of awarded top honor Medjugorje is not a beatification of Car- the Middle East to children – Sister ban funds for voice released – Responding to a ques- prison – Agustin human rights – The by Pope Benedict shrine – The bishop dinal Otunga – The be held in October. What in Doris Barbero and her elective abortions “Alma Mater,” a CD tion about the impact Cervantes, a promi- archbishop of Buenos XVI – The pope of Mostar-Duvno in investigation into the 2010 – The pope colleagues at a Sa- – Cardinal Francis featuring Pope Bene- of his latest encyclical, nent dissident who Aires has said not awarded the Pro Bosnia and Herzegov- possible beatification announced that a the world? moan primary school George praised the dict XVI’s voice leading Caritas in Veritate, has been involved only do terrorism, Ecclesia et Pontifice ina sent letters to the of Cardinal Maurice Special Assembly of saved the lives of 320 U.S. House of Rep- the “Regina Coeli” Pope Benedict XVI with the Christian Lib- repression and Medal to Mother pastor and a parochial Michael Otunga, the Synod of Bishops schoolchildren when resentatives’ recent prayers in St. Peters’s said, “I am very con- eration Movement’s murder violate human Angelica, founder vicar in Medjugorje, former archbishop of for the Middle East The top 10 she quickly moved decision to block Square, was released tent that this serious Varela Project, was rights, but so do of the Eternal Word emphasizing that the Nairobi, has begun will take place Oct. Catholic news events them to higher ground federal health care on Nov. 30. It contains discussion is taking condemned to two extreme poverty and Television Network, town’s parish is not a with the appointment 10-24, 2010. after an earthquake reform money from lines from Marian place. This was the aim years in prison after a the “unjust economic and also EWTN shrine and directing of the postulator of his triggered a tsunami paying for elective prayers/devotions and – to provide incen- summary trial by the structures that give executive Deacon Bill them, that they and cause. warning. abortions. classical music. tives and reasons for Cuban government. rise to great inequali- Steltemeier. the parish are not to a discussion on these ties.” promote the alleged problems …” Marian apparitions.

Priests thanked via post card campaign

As part of the “Year for Priests” celebration, during late October, parishes throughout the dio- Reflections on the birth of Christ cese distributed post cards so that people could mail them to priests to express gratitude for their influence. Carlos Briceño is the editor of Christ is our Hope magazine. “Our hope is that this will uplift and encourage priests,” said Doug Delaney, executive assistant to Bishop Peter Sartain, who helped to spearhead the Post cards, such as this one pictured, were recently distribut- or this month’s Last word, we Pope John Paul II: post card campaign. On the front of the post card ed throughout the diocese as a way for people to send priests Advent … helps us to understand fully the value and a thank you note for all that they do. at Christ is our Hope magazine are pictures of four priests from the diocese with a would like to give our readers the meaning of the mystery of Christmas. It is not just about sentence expressing thanks and the back contains commemorating the historical event, which occurred but still want to give thanks, feel free to send a note gift of Christmas and Advent wis- blank lines meant to be filled in by an appreciative to a priest thanking him for all that he has done to some 2,000 years ago in a little village of Judea. In- person. For those who did not receive a post card, enrich your faith or your life. F dom from our church leaders. stead, it is necessary to understand that the whole of our life must be an “advent,” a vigilant awaiting of the final Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen: coming of Christ. To predispose our mind to welcome The best way to understand the feast of Christmas is in the Lord, who, as we say in the Creed, one day will Things to do terms of a gift. The reasons we give gifts on Christmas is come to judge the living and the dead, we must learn Catechist Winter Institute: St. Martin of because we, too, have received a gift – the gift of God to to recognize him as present in the events of daily life. Tours Parish, Kankakee, is sponsoring a day men. Whenever we give gifts, we tear off the price tag so Therefore, Advent is, so to speak, an intense training for catechists on Feb. 6, 2010, from 8:30 a.m. until noon. Guest speakers include Di- that there will be no proportion between the gift of the lover that directs us decisively toward him who already came, ane Kleber (“10 Steps for Catechist’s Suc- and the gift of the giver. There is no price tag on the gift of who will come, and who comes continuously. Last cess”) and Father Tony Teschetta (“Teaching Christ. His gift is free. the Eucharist at Various Grade Levels”). For Father Raniero Cantalamessa, more information, call Karen LeClaire at Pope Benedict XVI: preacher of the Pontifical Household: word (708) 258-9580. Heaven does not belong to the geography of space, but There is much that we can do to solemnize Christmas, Mission trips: Medical, construction and to the geography of the heart. And the heart of God, during but the truest and most profound thing is suggested daycare/education teams are forming for the Holy Night, stooped down to the stable: the humility of to us by these words. A sincere thought of gratitude, a upcoming mission trips to Sucre, Bolivia, God is heaven. And if we approach this humility, then we feeling of love for him who came to live among us is the and Quito, Ecuador, from April 10 until April touch heaven. Then the earth, too, is made new. With the best gift we can give to the child Jesus, the most beauti- 24, 2010. More information and applica- tions are available on the Peace and Social humility of the shepherds, let us set out, during this Holy ful ornament in the manger. To be sincere, however, Justice Ministry’s web site: paxjoliet.org/mis- Night, towards the child in the stable! Let us touch God’s love needs to be translated into concrete gestures. The sions. Click on “Get Involved” to download humility, God’s heart! Then his joy will touch us and will simplest and most universal – when it is pure and inno- an application. make the world more radiant. Amen. cent – is the kiss. Let us kiss Jesus, then, as we desire to kiss all children just born. But let us not just kiss the Vocations weekend: Men who are juniors in college or older interested in a vocation to St. Katharine Drexel: statue of plaster or porcelain, but the child Jesus in flesh the priesthood are encouraged to attend an Reflect on the infant Jesus, how tiny were his feet. We and blood. When we have kissed those who are wretch- “Exploring Priesthood Weekend” at Munde- do not have to do anything too great in our lives; just fol- ed, suffering, we have kissed him! To kiss someone, in Amy Kiley lein Seminary in Chicago from Jan. 15-17, Coordinator for Catholics Come Home Joliet, Doug Delaney, speaks during the low in those tiny footsteps. Then, let God do the rest and this sense, is to help in a real way, but it is also to speak 2010. For more information, contact Father he will transform those tiny footsteps of ours into giant a good word, to give encouragement, to pay a visit, to initiative’s convocation Mass on Tuesday, November 3, at the St. Charles Borromeo Burke Masters, the diocesan vocations irec- Pastoral Center in Romeoville. Bishop Elect Joseph Siegel, looking on from the left, tor, at (815) 834-4004 or by email at strides, which will help us to carry the peace, the hope, smile, and sometimes – why not – to give an actual kiss. presides. The event kicked off a tri-diocesan campaign to persuade inactive Catho- [email protected]. the love, and the joy, which is Jesus Christ, to all whom These are the most beautiful candles that we can light in lics to begin practicing again. we meet. our manger. 32

St. Patrick Church in Sts. Mary & Joseph Church Kankakee in Chebanse

Immaculate Conception Church in Gilman

please recycle