ISSN: 0029-7739 $ 1.00 per copy THE BSERVER OOfficial Newspaper of the Catholic Diocese of Rockford Volume 84 | No. 3 http://observer.rockforddiocese.org FRIDAY DECEMBER 13, 2019 New Adoration Chapel Blessed St. Patrick Parish in Dixon honors St. John Paul II

BY LOUISE BR ASS Observer Correspondent

DIXON—“A great celebration” is how David Malloy described the opening of the St. John Paul II Per- petual Adoration Chapel at St. Patrick Church here during the morning Mass, Dec 4. The Mass was attended by many parishioners and students from the par- ish school. Christ in the Eucharist is a great gift, the bishop said, and reminded the con- gregation that the Blessed Sacrament is truly the body and blood of Jesus. “Before He died He said, ‘I am going to leave myself with you always,’ ” the bishop said. “He has given us His body and He said, ‘This is my body, this is my blood.’ It is not merely a memory or symbolic.

He is at the heart of our celebration,” (Observer photos/Louise Brass) Bishop Malloy said. Bishop David Malloy (second from right) blesses the tabernacle in the St. John Paul II Perpetual Adoration Chapel at St. Patrick Parish Those who visit the chapel can be in Dixon on Dec. 4. Father Keith Romke (left), pastor, watches as altar servers assist. “like the shepherds and like the Wise Men who knelt before the presence of Reaching the chapel Eucharist,” Father Romke said. “We The chapel will also benefit the stu- love him because of his incredibly tan- Christ,” he told the packed church. “We The chapel, connected to the church dents attending the nearby school. Each gible witness to joy, hope, and the fact can feed our souls by being with Him.” building, can be accessed via the office class will come to spend some time in the Father Keith Romke, pastor, and Dea- entrance where people can sign up for that he lovingly encouraged us to ‘Be chapel once a week, Father Romke said. con Terry Wagner joined Bishop Malloy adoration, said Father Romke, who has not afraid’ in the midst of the contem- The adoration chapel will be closed porary struggles of our own time.” in a blessing of the chapel prior to the promoted the project since its inception. only between the hours of 4 p.m. on Sat- The new chapel is the result of several Mass and participated in the adoration “We named it after St. John Paul II urdays to 11:30 a.m. on Sundays. months of planning, prayer and dona- and prayer service before the exposed because of his deep, deep love of Jesus tions, said Jennifer Sagel, coordinator Eucharist immediately after the Mass. and his faith in the real presence in the of parish evangelization. It all came to- Some of the congregation also attended, gether quite quickly, she said. filling the chapel to overflowing. Because St. John Paul II was so de- “I am beyond excited because I know voted to Our Lady, a statue of Our Lady that this moment will transform our of Fatima stands in a niche next to the parish and the lives of so many people,” tabernacle, Sagel said. Father Romke said. “It was amazing Since this is a renovation project not how quickly it all came together. Any a new construction, the cost was mini- time there was a need, someone came mal, she added. “I just felt like anytime out of the woodwork to help. we had a need, somebody came for- “Believe me when I say that the faith ward,” she said. of our parish is about to deepen to a About 150 students and many teach- whole new level — because we will be ers from St. Mary School at the parish adoring Jesus, God Himself, 24 hours a Bishop David Malloy places the Blessed also participated in the Mass prior to A painting of St. John Paul II depicting him day, six days a week. Our parish and our Sacrament in the adoration chapel taber- the opening of the chapel, and the St. as with the Virgin Mary decorates the city will never be the same,” he added. nacle for the first time. Mary choir sang advent hymns. new chapel.

This Issue Inside

Bishop Malloy ...... 2 Bishop Malloy, USCCB Urge Brighten Up Headliners...... 3 Prayers for Pope’s 50th Jubilee Learn more about clerical attire. Diocesan...... 4-5, 16 Pope pages 4-5 Worth the Wait ...... 6-7 marks Around the Diocese ...... 7-9 50 Sheen’s Peoria Nation/World ...... 10-11 years as Beatification Postponed a Our Catholic View ...... 12-13 Vatican responds to New York ’ Dec. 13. For the Record ...... 14 concerns to slow ceremony. Media/Arts...... 15 page 3 page 16 (ABOVE: CNS photo; MIDDLE and RIGHT: Observer Forever Family ...... 16 photos) 2 | FRIDAY DECEMBER 13, 2019 | The Observer Prepare this Advent for the Coming of the King

his Season of I can help with even if I have to to the world. The Observer (ISSN 0029- Advent is a time for inconvenience myself? (Lk 2: 17-18). See Bishop 7739), is published weekly, except fi ve times a year by preparation. Of course Of course the list could go on. Likewise, David Malloy’s the Diocese of Rockford, we are preparing for Each of us, by refl ecting on our had we 555 Colman Center Dr., P.O. message for TChristmas. But at the same time own spiritual situation, could accompanied Box 7044, Rockford, IL 61125 the feast of we are preparing for our own be moved by the Holy Spirit to the three Phone: 815/399-4300; Fax Our Lady of 815/399-6225. unveiled encounter with Christ an individualized refl ection to wise men, we Guadalupe BY BISHOP when He comes again in glory. highlight where in our lives we would have on page 6 Periodical postage paid at The preparation for those two are doing well and where we seen powerful Rockford, Ill., and additional DAVID J. mail offi ces. MALLOY moments is in many ways the need grace and strength to be and wealthy very same because, properly better prepared to meet the Lord. individuals leave their comfort POSTMASTER: send address understood, both are moments of With that preparation, we can and homelands to search for a changes to The Observer, 555 Colman Center Dr., P.O. Box uring meeting Jesus. open our hearts to learn from good that exceeded any earthly 7044, Rockford, IL 61125 this As we get ready for Christmas, the shepherds. They were called blessing. D For ADVERTISING information: our task becomes one of self- unexpectedly by the angels to Their goodness aided them in season we Contact The Observer at the examination. That examination come and meet the newborn outwitting the worldly guile of should place address above or call 815/399- particularly involves our spiritual King. They were the fi rst among King Herod. How much benefi t 4300; fax 815/399-6225, ourselves life and our soul. us who laid eyes on God made it would have done for our own Email: kmccarthy@ among the During this season we should visible. souls to kneel with them as rockforddiocese.org. shepherds place ourselves among the As powerful as that witness of they off ered their gifts of gold, Send NEWS information to The at the address or fax and the wise shepherds and the wise men who the angels was for them, it was frankincense and myrrh. Observer surround the mother and child as still an act of faith for them to The point is that in joining number above; send email to Observer@rockforddiocese. men who a very worthy spiritual exercise understand what they found in those fi rst members of the human org; or fi ll out a form at surround the of refl ection and imagination. the place where Jesus was. race who adored the newborn http://observer.rockforddiocese. mother and But in order to do this we need to There, they were confronted Jesus, we should have felt org/contact-us. child as a ask ourselves about our spiritual with a scene that was motivated to prepare spiritually Subscription rate $28.00 per very worthy preparation. exceptionally ordinary to human for that encounter. year (48 issues); Canadian Am I living close to Jesus senses — a poor mother holding Similarly, when Jesus comes and Pan American $29; other spiritual now in my life? Have I accepted her newborn son with the foster again in power and glory we foreign: surface mail $37, air exercise of His words and teaching, found father looking on. What could be will want to have prepared by mail $97; single copies $1. re ection in the Scriptures but also in the more earthly? More normal? a lifetime of witnessing to Him The Observer Online digital subscriptions are also available. and ? Yet the shepherds clearly felt and by a detachment from the Am I fervent and regular the presence of God. They must comforts and honors of this Publisher: imagination. in my worthy reception of have entered into the holiness world that lead us away from Most Reverend David J. Malloy the sacraments, especially that surrounds the birth of Jesus. Christ. Editor: Penny Wiegert the Eucharist as part of Mass The Gospel of Luke tells Please use this Advent to pray, News Editor: Amanda Hudson attendance each Sunday and us that afterward they “made repent, go to confession and Features and Multimedia regular confession of my sins? known the message that had generally prepare for the coming Editor: Sharon Boehlefeld What about acts of charity? been told them about this child. of the King. The shepherds Circulation/Proofreading: Am I helping with the poor and All who heard it were amazed and the wise men give us all an Susan Sabrowski, Keith the needy where and when I by what had been told them by excellent model of where to start Ludolph encounter them? the shepherds.” In essence, poor and how to be ready to meet Jill Bonk Am I attentive to family and and uneducated as they probably Christ in the circumstances of Accounting: neighbors and to any needs that were, they went forth to witness our own lives. Advertising and Marketing: Kevin McCarthy Production and Web Administrator: Gary Haughton Contributing Writers: Father Kenneth Wasilewski, Father Be Vigilant for He is Coming Kyle Manno, Keith Ludolph, Lynne Conner, Tony Carton, Angelus, St. Peter’s Square, Dec. 1 the marvellous vision of Isaiah indiff erence, of vanity, of the Pat Szpekowski, Margarita is a divine promise and impels inability to establish genuinely Mendoza, Louise Brass, Patrick In these four weeks of Advent, Winn us to assume an attitude of human relationships, of the the liturgy leads us to celebrate pilgrimage, of a journey towards inability to take charge of our Publication Dates: Weekly the nativity of Jesus, while it except that in 2019 there will Christ, the meaning and end of brother who is alone, abandoned reminds us that He comes into all history. be no issues on Jan. 4, March (CNS photo/C. Peri via Reuters) Peri photo/C. (CNS or ill. The expectation of Jesus our lives every day and will Those who hunger and thirst 29, May 31, Aug. 30, Nov. 29 BY POPE Who is coming must therefore be return gloriously at the end of for justice can only fi nd it through and Dec. 27. FR ANCIS translated into a commitment to News Deadlines: Usually, 10 time. the ways of the Lord, while evil vigilance. days before publication date. This certainty leads us to look and sin come from the fact that dvent is trustfully to the future, as we individuals and social groups It is above all a question of Ad Deadlines: Usually, 10 days before publication date. the time are invited to do by the prophet prefer to follow paths dictated wondering at God’s action, at His A Isaiah, who with his inspired surprises, and of according Him to welcome by selfi sh interests, which cause Offi cial information on the poli- voice accompanies the entire confl icts and wars. primacy. cies, activities, and positions of the Diocese of Rockford is the coming Advent journey. Advent is the time to welcome Vigilance also means, in a In today’s fi rst reading, Isaiah released only in the pages of of Jesus, the coming of Jesus, Who comes concrete sense, being attentive The Observer, or in state- Who prophesies that “it shall come to as a messenger of peace to show to our neighbour in diffi culty, ments from the Diocesan pass in the latter days that the us the ways of God. allowing oneself to be called Offi ce of Communications and comes as a Publications. mountain of the house of the In today’s Gospel, Jesus upon by his needs, without messenger Lord shall be established as the The Observer uses recycled exhorts us to be ready for His waiting for him or her to ask us of peace to highest of the mountains, and paper and is recyclable. coming: “Therefore, stay awake, for help, but learning to prevent, shall be lifted up above the hills; for you do not know on what day Our Mission is the mission show us the to anticipate, as God always does and all the nations shall fl ow to your Lord is coming” (Mt 24: 42). of the Church itself — to ways of God. with us. spread the Gospel through it” (Is 2: 2). Staying awake does not mean May Mary, the vigilant Virgin contemporary means of The temple of the Lord in to have one’s eyes materially communications. Jerusalem is presented as open, but to have one’s heart free and Mother of hope, guide us on the point of convergence and and facing the right direction, this journey, helping us to turn Member of: meeting of all peoples. After the that is disposed to giving and to our gaze towards the “mountain incarnation of the Son of God, service. This is staying awake! of the Lord,” the image of Jesus Jesus Himself revealed Himself The slumber from which we Christ, which attracts all men and as the true temple. Therefore, must awaken is constituted of all peoples. Headliners The Observer | FRIDAY DECEMBER 13, 2019 | 3 Father Gillespie, Educator, Dies in St. Charles ST. CHARLES—Father Ed- dral in Rockford on May 25, olic High School. He served as by the O’Byrne family in Ire- ward F. Gillespie died Monday, 1957. director of Religious Educa- land and cousins from the Gil- Dec. 9, 2019, here. He was born Father Gillespie was assigned tion at Aurora Central Catho- lespie side in the States; and his on April 1, 1931, in Chicago as parochial vicar at St. Thomas lic High School from 1970 to good friend and caregiver Gail to Edward Gillespie and Mary Aquinas in Freeport from 1957 1984. In 1984 He was assigned Quinn. Agnes O’Byrne Gillespie. to 1960, at St. James in Belvi- as pastor of Our Lady of Good The Funeral Mass will be Father Gillespie attended St. dere from 1960 to 1962, and at Counsel in Aurora and retired on Tuesday, Dec. 17, 2019, at Mary Seminary in Baltimore, SS. Peter and Paul in Cary from there from active ministry on 11:30 a.m. at St. Joan of Arc Md., where he received two 1962 to 1963. He served on the July 2, 2001. Parish, 820 Division St., Lisle. bachelor’s degrees, a Bach- faculty at St. Edward Central Father Gillespie had a gift of Visitation will take place at elor of Arts and a Bachelor of Catholic High School in Elgin relating to young people which the church from 9:30 a.m. until

Sacred Theology. He later at- from 1964 to 1966 and then as made his many years of minis- (Observer file photo) the time for the Mass at 11:30 tended Loyola University in superintendent from 1966 to try in education so fruitful. He Father Edward F. Gillespie a.m. Burial will be at All Saints Chicago, where he received a 1969. In 1969 he joined the fac- touched many student’s lives Cemetery, Des Plaines. master’s degree in education ulty at Aquin Central Catholic and is remembered fondly by Edward Gillespie both of Doo- Memorials can be made in in 1964. Father Gillespie was High School in Freeport. From many. nin, Kilcar, in County Donegal his name to the Diocese of ordained by Bishop Loras T. 1969 to 1970, he was part of the He was preceded in death by Ireland. Rockford Long Term Care for Lane at St. James Pro-Cathe- faculty at Aurora Central Cath- his parents; Mary Agnes and Father Gillespie is survived Fund.

(CNS photo/Vatican stamp and coin office) The Vatican stamp and coin office released stamps and coins to com- memorate the 50th anniversary of Pope Francis’ Dec. 13, 1969, ordina- tion to the priesthood. Bishop Malloy, USCCB Urge Prayers for Pope’s 50th Jubilee

WASHINGTON (CNS)— “Archbishop Jose H. Gomez, The Catholic faithful across the President of the United States United States are being invited Conference of Catholic Bish- to pray for Pope Francis as he ops, has forwarded to each dio- (Photo provided/Bishop David Malloy) celebrates 50 years as a priest. cese, a reminder that the Holy Bishop Visits with Seminarian in Rome The jubilee of his ordination Father Pope Francis on Friday, Bishop David Malloy stopped for a photo with diocesan seminarian James Linkenheld after Mass at is Dec. 13, a weekday in Advent December 13, 2019, celebrates the tomb of St. Paul at St. Paul Outside the Walls Church in Rome. Bishop Malloy is in Rome, along with and the memorial of St. Lucy. the 50th anniversary of his ordi- other bishops from this Midwest region, for his Ad Limina visit with Pope Francis. Linkenheld is currently He was ordained in 1969. nation to the priesthood. studying theology at the Pontifical North American College in Rome and is scheduled to be ordained In a letter to priests in the “As a means of marking this in 2021. Rockford Diocese, Bishop Da- important occasion of his life Salute CSW and promote your vid Malloy wrote: and therefore in our own soli- darity with him as the succes- business to Catholic Readers in Prayer for Pope sor to Peter, the USCCB has Francis drafted a prayer in honor of that occasion. They have also for- Salute Catholic Schools Week! 11 counties in northern Illinois. Father of mercy, warded two possible petitions we come before you with for the Prayer of the Faithful gratitude on that same occasion. I am at- for the 50 years of priesthood taching those prayers herewith, of Pope Francis, whom you have made Peter's and I ask that either on Friday, successor. Dec. 13, or in the Masses of the Support him with the Spirit's weekend of Dec. 14-15, 2019, gifts, these prayers and petitions be so that he can continue read so that we continue to pray to preach the Gospel with for Pope Francis.” priestly zeal and lead the With his letter, the bishop Church with wisdom and also included two petitions that Support Catholic Education with a strength and courage. May his can be used at Mass or in pray- example of long and faithful ing the Liturgy of the Hours. congratulatory message or advertisement. service Bishop Malloy also joined be an inspiration to your Achbishop Gomez in inviting Ad Deadline: January 15 — Publication: January 24 priests and to all your faithful. the faithful to use any other ap- We ask this through Christ our Reserve your ad space NOW Lord. propriate prayer for the pope if they desire. Let us create one to enhance Don’t have an ad? your business at NO additional cost. Bishop Malloy’s WEST DUNDEE — Dec. 19,  Public Schedule 7 p.m., Mass for Simbang Gabi — Contact — Ad Deadline: 1-15-2020 Celebration, St. Catherine of VATICAN — Dec. 7-15, Ad Kevin McCarthy @ 815-399-4300 ext. 385 Siena Church Limina Visit or email Publication: 1-24-2020 CRYSTAL LAKE — Dec. 17, ROCKFORD — Dec. 22, 7:30 The Offi cial Newspaper of the Catholic Diocese of Rockford [email protected] 5:30 p.m., Confirmation, St. a.m., Sunday Mass, Cathedral of Elizabeth Ann Seton Church St. Peter GALENA - FREEPORT - STERLING - ROCKFORD - DEKALB - CRYSTAL LAKE - ELGIN - AURORA 4 | FRIDAY DECEMBER 13, 2019 | The Observer Diocesan Monsignors Papal Honors Mean Msgr. Glenn Nelson Additional Attire for Priests

n the late 1960s, Pope Paul VI dis- the monsignori. The majority of the titles mantled the centuries-old Papal derived from a personal or domestic service Court along with its honors sys- to the reigning pope. tem. He replaced it with a simplified With Paul VI’s changes, there now are Istructure of honors for the and la- three levels of the monsignori. The attire ity. worn by those various kinds of monsignors By 1900, there were 16 degrees of are distinguished mostly by color.

This is the fifth of an occasional Chaplain of His Holiness is the first (lowest) of the three ranks series by of . It is a title granted by the pope to a member of Amanda Hudson, the diocesan clergy upon the request of the diocesan bishop, and news editor, more frequently upon clerics in service in the Curia or in the on religious papal diplomatic service. attire. We have For a time, this particular level was dropped. Pope St. John shown habits Paul II brought it back in 2002, and Msgr. Glenn Nelson, vicar general and moderator of the curia for the Diocese of Rockford, of the Poor was named a Chaplain of His Holiness that same year, installed Clare Colettine in January 2003. nuns at The black (house) worn by chaplains of His Holiness Corpus Christi are trimmed with bright red- buttons and matching trim Monastery in along the edges. The fascia (sash) is the same bright red-purple. Rockford and Msgr. Nelson says with a grin that the informal name used by the monks clergy in Australia for the fascia is “belly band.” of Marmion He grins again as he explains the fascia used to be fastened with hooks and eyes but now are secured with hook and loop Abbey in tape. That makes adjusting the fascia “with the changing of the Aurora, as seasons” — from Lent with its fasting to Christmas with its well as Mass feasting — easier. and every-day attire for diocesan Prelate of Honor priests. Look for Msgr. Nelson was installed a Prelate of Honor in May of 2011. more clerical garb Prelate of Honor is the most frequently bestowed of the papal in future issues. honors at the diocesan level. The nomination of the honoree is traditionally announced simultaneously with the group of other papal honors being conferred at that time within a diocese. These monsignors’ black (house) cassocks are trimmed with red buttons and edging. The fascia, however, is the same bright red-purple as found at the first level. Msgr. Nelson calls his house ‘formal wear,’ for banquets, wedding festivities and other non- liturgical celebrations. These monsignors also have what is called a choir cassock to wear at liturgical functions. Choir cassocks are a red-purple color with red buttons and trim. The

Msgr. Glenn Nelson holds the cas- The tradition of the monsignor sock while wearing a bright red- “Any papal award, but most significantly one purple clerical dickey-amice. of the clerical awards, is part of a centuries-old tradition within the Church to which relatively few have ever been singled out. Proper care to live ac- cordingly, as is also the mandate for a lay honoree, requires an understanding of the history and tradi- tions of the prelatial title, as well as of the privi- leges and responsibilities that the award carries. It must always be remembered by papal honorees, both lay and ecclesiastical, that, for whatever reason the award may have been conferred, the recipient has been singled out by Rome as an ex- emplary example of his vocation of life within the Church, and that individual must always live up to the Church’s trust in him.” Msgr. Nelson flips part of his fas- Source: “The Church Visible” by James-Charles Noonan cia (sash) over his shoulder while Resources: “The Church Visible: The Ceremonial Life and adjusting it around the waist of Protocol of the Roman Catholic Church” by James-Charles his “house cassock” (shown in full, (Observer photos/Amanda Hudson)) Noonan, Jr.; Wikipedia left). DIOCESAN The Observer | FRIDAY DECEMBER 13, 2019 | 5

Don’t Miss Bishop Brighten Up Malloy’s TV Messages deep cuff s are red (see photo at bottom). Once again, the fascia (non-bishop) prelates at the is a bright red-purple. When vested for Mass, only the cuff s and diocesan level. Weekday Reflection hem of a choir cassock are visible. Both Msgr. Thomas Brady (about 6:58 a.m.) Msgr. Nelson counts the many layers. “T-shirt, my shirt, my and the late Msgr. Charles on WREX-TV, Channel 13, cassock, my alb and the chasuble,” he says, adding that when McNamee were elevated to Rockford albs and chasubles are not made of breathable fabric, they are that level — Msgr. Brady in even hotter. It would be just fi ne for medieval castles, he adds. A surplice is worn over a choir cassock during a liturgy 1994 and Msgr. McNamee in Top o’ the when the monsignor is not a 1999. celebrant. But Msgr. Nelson These monsignors are Morning says during Lent, he wears the entitled to purple vestments black cassock instead of the and are permitted to wear the with fl ashy bright red-purple. purple ferraiolo, a type of cape An additional feature of the traditionally worn on formal, Bishop cassocks are two cords loosely non-liturgical occasions. Malloy looped from mid-shoulder It can be worn over the blade to waist in back. The Listen to archives anytime at shoulders or behind them. fascia slides between the cords http://observer.rockforddiocese.org. It extends in length to the and the cassock. Click on Bishop Malloy on the top left Msgr. Nelson recalls one ankles, is tied in a bow by side of the page. narrow strips of cloth at the mishap when he was a new Brought to you by monsignor and was heading front, and it does not have any (CNS le photo) Fitzgerald Funeral Homes into a room with a group to trim or piping on it. Archbishop Fulton Sheen wears Illinois Bank & Trust meet Pope John Paul II. One The color of the ferraiolo is a ferraiolo. The ferraiolo was not Diocesan Office of of the loops in back of his determined by the rank of the included in a current catalog of cassock caught on the door cleric. clerical supplies. Communication and knob, snapping off one end Publications The Observer and leaving the slender cord Office of Charitable Giving, waving around. With nothing Diocese of Rockford to repair it handy, he tucked the loose end under the fascia — and, mercifully, it stayed put.

Monsignors with the title Prelate Protonotary of Honor, such as Msgr. Nelson, have what is called a choir cas- Apostolic sock to wear at liturgical func- Supranumerary tions. Here Msgr. Nelson also wears a surplice over his choir Priests holding the title cassock, which is appropriate Msgr. Nelson is vested for Mass in the Chapel of the Immaculate Con- during a liturgy when the monsi- Supranumerary are the ception in the Diocesan Administration Building. When vested for gnor is not a celebrant. highest-ranking nonepiscopal Mass, only the cu s and hem of a monsignor’s choir cassock are visible.

Weekly in The Observer

Bishop Priest Subscribe ASL Signs for the Clergy and Religious Msgr. Glenn Nelson, who is Vicar General and Moderator of the Today! Curia for the Rockford Diocese is also director of Deaf Ministry. He demonstrates how American Sign Language relies on papal, cleri- Select print, digital cal and religious attire for its meaning. The sign for bishop (above or both for just left) mimics the kissing of a bishop’s ring. The sign for priest (above right) indicates the priestly collar. The sign for monsignor (left) $28 per year. sweeps over the body where the fascia (belt) goes. The sign for monk (bottom left) imitates the motion of pulling a cowl over one’s Call 815-399-4300 head. And the sign for sister or nun (bottom right) demonstrates ext. 383 or go online at where a veil covers a woman’s head. http://observer. rockforddiocese.org

Monsignor Monk Sister or Nun 6 | FRIDAY DECEMBER 13, 2019 | The Observer Worth the Wait Spend Time with God Third Week of And Family in Advent

Advent e start the third week of Advent love: even more, (Observer file photo) Advent with the lighting of Christmas is W the rose candle on the Advent Reflection about spending Bless your Leader: Lord our God, we praise wreath. Through its liturgy, Mother Father time with God. Church invites us to rejoice. Every family Christmas tree you for the light of creation: the Johnson sun, the moon, and the stars of With Christmas nearing, it’s a time to Lopez and community Leader: Let us glorify Christ our the night. rejoice because we are about to celebrate St. Edward, has its own light, who brings salvation and the mystery of God becoming a human Rockford, traditions. The We praise you for the light of peace into our midst, now and being and being born of a virgin. parochial feast of Our Lady Israel: the Law, the prophets, and administrator forever. the wisdom of the Scriptures. Christmas is about Emmanuel, the God of Guadalupe and R/. Amen. that came to stay with us. the Posadas bring We praise you for Jesus Christ, Do not let any exterior distractions together the Hispanic community and Leader: My brothers and sisters, your Son: He is Emmanuel, God- amidst signs and wonders Christ take you away from contemplating and helps them to prepare for Christmas. with-us, the Prince of Peace, who experiencing baby Jesus in your life. The chilly evenings are warmed with Jesus was born in Bethlehem of fills us with the wonder of your About this time every year, the market prayers, music, Christmas carols and Judea: his birth brings joy to our love. hearts and enlightenment to our is more aggressive than usual. The culture delicious food. Make sure you let the minds. With this tree, decorated Lord God, let your blessing come of consumerism urges us to buy the new people you love and care for know how and adorned, may we welcome upon us as we illumine this tree. decorations and lights for Christmas. We important they are in your life. Christ among us; may its lights May the light and cheer it gives end up buying many unnecessary things I encourage you to seek the grace of guide us to the perfect light. be a sign of the joy that fills our every year. The experience of Christmas forgiveness in the sacrament of confession Read from Scripture Titus 3:4 (lines hearts. could become very stressful. and to participate frequently in the 4-7) or Ezekiel 17:22 (lines 22-24; May all who delight in this tree Christmas, nonetheless, is not just about celebration of holy Eucharist. I will plant a tender shoot on the come to the knowledge and joy decorations, lights and gifts. Christmas Have a blessed Advent season and a mountain heights of Israel.) of salvation. is about spending time with people we joyful Christmas. Leader: The Word of the Lord. We ask this through Christ our R/. Thanks be to God. Lord. Bishop’s Message for the Feast Leader: Let us ask God to send R/. Amen. His blessing upon us and upon Turn on tree lights. this sign of our faith in the Lord. Of Our Lady of Guadalupe Leader: (makes the Sign of the R/. Lord, give light to our hearts. Cross) May the God of glory fill Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ, Leader: That this tree of our hearts with peace and joy, On the occasion of the novena in honor of the Blessed Mother lights may remind us of the now and forever. of Guadalupe, Patroness of Americas, on Dec. 12, I want to tree of glory on which Christ accomplished our salvation, let R/. Amen. extend my greetings to you and let you know that I am spiritually us pray to the Lord. Sing a verse from “O Come, O united to you on these festivities of the Blessed Mother as a model of faith, obedience and discipleship of Jesus Christ. R/. Lord, give light to our hearts. Come, Emmanuel”: I want to congratulate you because your parents, catechists, Leader: That the joy of Christmas O come, thou dayspring, come and cheer priests and bishops were so clear with you that we reach Christ may always be in our homes, let through Mary and they, as well as all of us, are conscious us pray to the Lord. our spirits by thine advent here; disperse the gloomy clouds of witnesses of the powerful intercession of the Blessed Mother. As a R/. Lord, give light to our hearts. night consequence, we receive countless spiritual and material witness. Leader: That the peace of Christ and death’s dark shadow put to I thank God for your faith and devotion to the Blessed Mother may dwell in our hearts and in flight. and for living, day-in and day-out, the moral principles of the world, let us pray to the Lord. Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel shall marriage between man and woman from which we came into the R/. Lord, give light to our hearts. come to thee, O Israel. world and for defending life from conception until natural death. All say the Lord’s Prayer. — USCCB Thank you, too, for defending the Catholic Faith received from your parents. (Observer file photo) Unfortunately, I am unable to be with you on the occasion Add the ‘O’ Dec. 19: O Radix Iesse (O Root of these celebrations because I have to be in Rome for the Ad Antiphons of Jesse) Limina visit to the tomb of St. Peter and to the Holy Father that Dec. 20: O Clavis David (O Key all the bishops are called to make every five years. Starting next week, add the of David) As your bishop, I offer prayer daily for all your needs and appropriate ‘O’ Antiphon to Dec. 21: O Oriens (O Morning thank you for your constant prayers for my ministry. your daily prayers, such as your Star) morning offering, grace before Dec. 22: O Rex Gentium (O King meals, or bedtime prayers. of the Nations) Dec. 17: O Sapientia (O Wisdom) Dec. 23: O Emmanuel (O God Dec. 18: O Adonai (O Lord) with Us) The Most Rev. David J. Malloy Bishop of Rockford

United States Conference of Catholic Bishops

Copyright © 2019, United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, Washington, DC. All rights reserved. Quote from Pope Francis, copyright © 2018, Libreria Editrice Vaticana, Vatican City State. All rights reserved. Scripture excerpts are taken from the New American Bible, Revised Edition, copy- right © 2010, 1991, 1986, 1970 Confraternity of Christian Doctrine, Inc., Washington, DC. All rights reserved. Photo: Getty Images. Worth the Wait The Observer | FRIDAY DECEMBER 13, 2019 | 7

Advent events and Paul, 410 N. First St. Families can send small gifts to impoverished Dec 19 children through the Epiphany Dec 13-15 GENEVA ROCKFORD Rorate Coeli Mass: 6:50 a.m.; St. BOCA RATON, Fla.—Following the traditional Christmas season calendar, Nativity open house: 4-8 p.m. Dec. 13-14, Peter, 1891 Kaneville Road. A Marian Cross Catholic Outreach is extending its Box of Joy program through the Feast 1-6 p.m. Dec. 15; Jody Deery’s home, 1030 candlelight Mass for Advent, celebrating of the Epiphany, Jan. 6, 2020. N. Second St. See her private collection the coming Light of the World. Info: “The Magi, complete strangers to the Holy Family, searched far and wide of nativity sets from around the world. 630-232-0124 for the baby Jesus so they could bless Him with the best they had to give. We Parking in YMCA lot south of the home; in Dec 21 want to follow their same example and give families the opportunity to bless the lot next door on the north side (enter GENEVA little children in impoverished nations to experience the joy of the Christmas at Ethel Avenue); handicapped parking in Bambinelli blessing: 10 a.m.; St. Peter, season,” said Jim Cavnar, president of Cross Catholic Outreach. home’s driveway. Free; donations benefit 1891 Kaneville Road. Blessing of Baby Americans have already pledged more than 103,000 boxes through Box the Poor Clare Corpus Christi Monastery. Jesus figures from home nativity sets. of Joy, a 24 percent increase over last year. As families finish their Christmas Sponsor: Catholic Women’s League. Info: 630-232-0124 shopping and celebrate the joyous season together, they still have time to Dec 15 send shoeboxes to children who would not otherwise receive anything for the GENEVA Elsewhere celebration of Jesus’ birth. Children’s pageant: 1 p.m.; St. Peter School To participate in Box of Joy, families can either pack shoeboxes of their own gym, 1891 Kaneville Road. Children Dec. 4-Jan. 5 and send them to the sorting center in Miami, Fla., or they can go online and present the Christmas story. Cookie SINSINAWA, WIS. Sponsor-A-Box through the Box of Joy website, picking out the gender and reception following in McLoughlin Hall. Nativities display: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. age of the child they want to send a box to and paying $25 to fill it, plus $9 Info: Nicole Billapando, 630-232-0124 weekdays, Sinsinawa Mound Art Gallery, shipping. Dec 18 County Road Z, off Wisconsin Rte. 11. Info: Box of Joy, www.boxofjoy.org; Cross Catholic Outreach, 800-914-2420, https:// CARY Info: Michelle Till, 608-748-4411, ext. crosscatholic.org/ Reconciliation: 7:30 p.m., SS. Peter 849, www.sinsinawa.org/moundcenter

Around the Diocese

Going on Now Submit News E.D. Dec. 14-15, 21-22 Parish, school and Catholic Students NORTH AURORA organization publicists may send Tribute card sale: after all Masses; news and photos about their Honor Blessed Sacrament, 801 Oak St. upcoming and recent activities. Saints, All The Altar and Rosary Society is Submissions will be forwarded to selling Lights of Love handmade El Observador and to the diocesan Souls calendar. tribute cards. Cost: $5 each. Info: On Nov. 1, Jenny Bourge, 630-897-1029, Deadline: 10 days before third- and [email protected] publication. fourth-graders Online: Use the form at http:// at St. Mary Save the Date observer.rockforddiocese.org/ School in East contact-us. Click on Submit Events Dubuque Dec 24 and News. dressed as Christmas Eve By Mail: Send to The Observer, P.O. and reported Diocesan Administration Center Box 7044, Rockford, IL 61125. about favorite closed saints. On Nov. Dec 25 Find more events http://www. 5, students Christmas Day rockforddiocese.org/calendar. tied ribbons Diocesan Administration Center php to the fence. closed They were Dec 31 Send Advent, inscribed New Year’s Eve with names Diocesan Administration Center Christmas and of deceased closed loved ones 2020 events from St. Jan 1 Mary Parish, New Year’s Day Send photos: Please send photos from your parish, school and Nativity of the Diocesan Administration Center Blessed Virgin closed organization events that take place on or before Dec. 15 no later Mary Parish in Jan 11 than Dec. 17. Menominee AURORA The Dec. 20 issue will include and the school Qualifying exam: 9 a.m.; Rosary events scheduled between Dec. 23 community High School, 901 Edgelawn Dr. and Jan. 12. Those are due Dec. 11. and said For girls interested in attending The first issue of 2020 will be Jan. prayers for Rosary in 2020-21. Info: rosaryhs. 10. Please send your news and them. com/exam photos by Jan 2. (Photo provided) What’s Up Mon Dec 16 Blessed Sacrament Holy Family Sat Dec 21 Hall, 801 Oak St. StrokeScan Plus Edgebrook Center Rockford, Illinois BATAVIA vascular and organ wellness DIXON Cosmetic, Implant, and General Dentistry “Life is Still Worth Living”: screenings. Info: 832-437-7355 Christmas party: 5 p.m. 6-8:30 p.m.; Holy Cross Donovan Dentures Repaired for appointments; Jenny Bourge, doors open, Dixon Knights of Hall, 2300 Main St. Speaker: Dr. Columbus Council 690 Hall, 506 or Relined Peter Howard. Topic: Archbishop 630-897-1029, poffice@blsacr- W. Third St. For council members the Same Day! Fulton J. Sheen, Illinois native, and na.org Call 815-229-3520 Emmy Award-winning Catholic and their guests. Bring dish to preacher of the 20th century. WOODSTOCK pass. Info: www.kofc690.com, 6 p.m. reception; 6:30 p.m. Placement exam: 12 noon; 815-288-1821 (leave a message) presentation and Q&A. Info: 630- Marian Central Catholic High GENEVA 879-4750, holycross-batavia.org School, 1001 McHenry Ave. For Book and media fair: after Wed Dec 18 incoming freshmen. Registration weekend Masses (also Dec. 22); needed. Cost: $15. Info: St. Peter, 1891 Kaneville Road. NORTH AURORA Guidance Department, 815-338- Catholic books and media from Health scans: 8 a.m.-7 p.m.; 4220 ext 115 the Daughters of St. Paul sisters. Dr. Kris Tumilowicz 8 | FRIDAY DECEMBER 13, 2019 | The Observer Around the Diocese

St. Bridget ‘Bowls’ to First St. Bridget School in Loves Park scholastic bowl teams competed in a seven-team tourney at Boylan Central Catholic High School in Rockford. The teams played seven other teams from schools in the area and represent- ed the school well. One of the school’s two teams brought home the first

(Photos provided) place trophy in a tight First-place team match. St. Bridget Scholastic Bowl members Aurora Fifth Graders Research, Report On Mystery Native American Artifacts AURORA—Show and tell bletop displays to culminate MAIZE is a partnership of with a big impact. an annual Museum Artifact Holy Angels, Aurora Univer- That’s what a visitor to Auro- Inquiry ZonE (MAIZE) proj- sity’s Schingoethe Museum ra’s Holy Angels School might ect, a hands-on study of Na- and AU’s School of Education have called a program there tive American artifacts. Parents and Human Performance. The Nov. 13. and friends packed the church’s program debuted at Holy An- About 50 fifth graders Connor Hall for the 90-minute gels after more than 20 years at made oral reports and 22 ta- program. Freeman Elementary School in Aurora. From Oct. 17 to Nov. 14, on Monday and Wednesday morn- ings, three AU educators and 24 AU student teachers brought MAIZE to Holy Angels pupils. Program director is Deborah Stevens, Ph.D., AU professor of education, chair of Initial Licensure and chair of Early Childhood Special Education with English as a Second Lan- guage and Bilingual program. She was assisted by Randy Steinheimer, Debbie Stein- heimer, Sue Hard and Laurie (Photos provided/Al Benson) Brianna Beyer of Oswego, Aurora University student teacher, presents Mitz, AU education faculty, MAIZE completion certificates to Maggie Lagman, right, and Braden and Meg Bero, executive direc- Dillon, center, at Holy Angels School in Aurora Nov. 13. They hold rep- tor emerita of the Schingoethe lica Inuit button blankets they made for a presentation. Museum. In her welcome to guests, Ste- Alexis Salmeron of Oswego, Aurora University student teacher, holds vens said fifth graders worked a microphone for Jordan Jasin during a MAIZE presentation at Holy in small, cooperative and col- Angels School in Aurora Nov. 13. laborative research groups led artifacts and wrote detailed de- tribal affiliations in the US and by AU students to learn about scriptions along with drawings. Native Peoples are extremely 24 mystery artifacts. Students researched artifacts diverse, have different languag- She said Holy Angels pupils by reading books and articles es and cultural customs.” learned math, science, read- about what the artifact could After student presentations, ing, writing, analysis and infer- be, its use and how it was made. young curators received com- ence while researching Native Then students focused on the pletion certificates from AU American artifacts. Artifacts artifact’s origin and identified student teachers. represented tribes nationwide what gender made the artifact, Stevens added that MAIZE including Northeast Woodland, tribal affiliation and tribal cus- is a problem-based learning Inuit, Plains, Navajo South- toms, ceremonies, dress, and approach designed at Harvard west, Southwest Hopi and Ca- geographical location. University in the 1970s for hokia. Stevens said, “Using au- medical schools. Harvard re- Omar Flores, center, reports on an Ojibway porcupine quill pouch he According to Stevens “The thentic Native artifacts helps searchers determined the ap- young museum curators researched with Colleen DiMatteo, left, during a MAIZE presentation students understand the com- proach is one of the best ways learned how to tackle a problem at Holy Angels School in Aurora Nov. 13. Right is Vanessa Castrejon, an plexity of Native history and to learn. Aurora University student teacher, who mentored the pupils. by analyzing what they know identity. There are over 550 — Al Benson and what they need to know. Additionally, they studied re- Dr. Deborah search, writing and speaking as Stevens, Watch they have formed conclusions Aurora about their artifacts.” University education Stevens explained young Catholic professor, curators received unidentified introduces Mass artifacts, analyzed them and the MAIZE Sunday, 6:30 a.m., learned to describe them with project at Holy WREX-TV Channel 13 perfection. Angels School Rockford Students wore gloves each in Aurora Nov. time they touched the artifacts Anytime at 13. About 50 to prevent oils from accumu- www.rockforddiocese.org/tvmass fifth graders lating, modeling how artifacts studied Native Brought to you by the Diocesan Office of are handled in museums across American Communications and Publications the world. Students measured artifacts. Around the Diocese The Observer | FRIDAY DECEMBER 13, 2019 | 9

Dixon School Hosts Sterling Deanery ‘Lock-in’ St. Anne School in Dixon recently hosted a middle school “lock-In” for Sterling Deanery students in fifth through eighth grades. It was held on a Friday evening and100 area students attended. The evening was filled with games, food and fellowship. St. Anne School plans to hold similar events in the future to continue to provide social opportunities outside of the classroom for youth. (Photos provided)

(Photo provided/Al Benson) Aurora Priest (Photos provided) Speaks at InterFAITH Elgin’s St. Mary Celebrates Thanksgiving Father Matthew McMorrow, pas- Before leaving for the long tor at St. Joseph Parish in Aurora, holiday weekend, a Thanksgiv- was among 16 speakers at Inter- ing feast was prepared by Vicki FAITH Aurora’s 12th annual com- Winter and the lunch moms munity Thanksgiving celebration (right), and shared by both Nov. 25 at Society 57 Church in faculty and students. They Aurora. Father McMorrow read dined on turkey, stuffing, corn, President Abraham Lincoln’s mashed potatoes, Jello, rolls, 1863 Thanksgiving proclamation. cornbread and desserts. The students ate with their prayer partners. They also donned Please take the time to turkey hats, pilgrim hats and thank our advertisers. Native American headdresses. They were led in prayer by sec- ond graders (above right).

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Send us 2. Click in the box. your news 3. Fill out the form the easy way. and hit submit. Submit 10 | FRIDAY DECEMBER 13, 2019 | The Observer Nation/World News in Brief Mexican diocese suspends evening Masses due to insecurity CUERNAVACA, Mexico (CNS)—The Diocese of Cuernavaca has suspended evening Masses due to insecurity in the city and surrounding state of Morelos, a reflection of the violence raging in parts of Mexico and its impact on the Catholic Church. Bishop Ramon Castro Castro of Cuernavaca said church services would not be celebrated after dark because people in the region just south of Mexico City did not want to venture out of their homes after dark. “These are situations where people are scared. It’s a fear that paralyzes them,” Bishop Castro told local media Dec. 4, according to the newspaper El Universal. He added that church attendance is the southern and eastern parts of Morelos — a small state that borders the national capital — has dropped due to insecurity. The bishop also said he had registered four cases of extortion committed against women religious in the diocese. Caritas delivers food aid to flood victims in Muslim Somalia NAIROBI, Kenya (CNS)—Caritas, the relief arm of the Catholic Church, has delivered food aid to Muslims in Somalia, who are (CNS photo/Paul Haring) currently facing floods and living in a fragile peace environment Vatican Decorations Enjoyed due to a prolonged Islamist insurgency. The aid reached fami- The Christmas tree sparkles after a lighting ceremony in St. Peter’s Square at the Vatican Dec. 5. The lies in Berdale, a small town center of 50,000 people, including 85-foot-tall spruce tree came from the forests of the Veneto region in northeast Italy and another 20 6,000 people displaced from their homes. The town has been smaller trees were donated by communities in the region’s province of Vicenza. It was adorned with cut off following flooding that silver and gold balls and “next generation” lights meant to have a reduced impact on the environment left most areas submerged, and use less energy. The large Nativity scene in St. Peter’s Square was made entirely out of wood and making it difficult for the replicates traditional northern Trentino-style buildings. Some 23 life-size wooden figures — all with people to access emergency handcarved heads — fill the scene, representing life in a small rural village in the northern Province of food, medicine and shelter. Trento in the early 1900s. There is a lumberjack pulling wood with a sled and people making cheese and “Caritas Somalia is carrying washing clothes. Some of the faces reproduce the faces of real Italian shepherds from the region, includ- out interventions working ing a man who recently died in an accident. Some of the clothes are real outfits handed down through the generations or once worn by local shepherds. (CNS photo/Feisal Omar, Reuters) with another NGO in Berdale A Somali girl jumps over a road severely hit by the floods. The washed away by flooding after intervention was finalized heavy rains in Mogadishu Nov. 26. (Dec. 3). It consists of food for 1,000 families for one month,” Archbishop Giorgio Bertin, ap- Duluth Bishop Dies after Heart ostolic administrator of Mogadishu, told Catholic News Service. Nearly 273,000 people have been displaced in the flood with at least 17 others being killed in the Horn of Africa country. Attack, He was ‘Greatly Loved’ Pope, council of cardinals discuss ST. PAUL, Minn. (CNS)— His fu- Sirba’s resurrection to new life, greater role for lay men and women Bishop Paul D. Sirba of Du- neral Mass and have confident assurance luth, Minnesota, died at Essen- was cele- that he will hear the words of VATICAN CITY (CNS)—Pope Francis and his international tia Health-St. Mary’s Medical brated Dec. our Lord: ‘Well done, good and Council of Cardinals reviewed aspects of the draft of the apos- Center in Duluth Dec. 1. He 6 at the Ca- faithful servant, enter in the joy tolic constitution that would govern the , including was 59. thedral of of your Master.’” a greater role for lay men and women. The Vatican press office According to a statement Our Lady Ordained a priest for the issued a statement Dec. 4 saying the council also discussed from the diocese’s vicar gen- of the Rosa- Archdiocese of St. Paul and the relationship between the Curia — the Church’s central eral, Father James Bissonette, ry, followed (CNS photo/Dave Hrbacek, Minneapolis in 1986, he was administrative offices — and the bishops’ conferences around Bishop Sirba suffered car- by burial Catholic Spirit) named to head the Diocese of the world. “The activity of the council was aimed at deepen- diac arrest at St. Rose Catho- at Calvary Bishop Paul D. Duluth by Pope Benedict XVI ing two aspects of importance pertaining to the draft of the lic Church in Proctor and was C e me t e r y Sirba in 2009; his episcopal ordina- new apostolic constitution,” the Vatican said. It included, “the rushed to the medical center in Duluth. tion was in December of that relations between the Curia and the episcopal conferences and where lifesaving measures “Words do not adequately year. the presence of the lay faithful, men and women, in decision- were unsuccessful. He died express our sorrow at this sud- He would have celebrated his making roles in the offices of the Curia and in other bodies of shortly after 9 a.m. He received den loss of our shepherd,” Fa- 10th anniversary as a bishop the Church, and to study the theological-pastoral basis of these last rites from Father John Pet- ther Bissonette said. “We have Dec. 14. aspects.” The council members met Dec. 2-4, and Pope Francis rich, a hospital chaplain. great hope and faith in Bishop was present except when he had a scheduling conflict. Chicago Auxiliary Bishop Rojas SPECIALIZING IN FAITH-BASED JOURNEYS Named Coadjutor for San Bernardino Ask about pilgrimages with Father David Peck WASHINGTON (CNS)— tion into the Bishop Rojas is expected to Experience the trip Pope Francis has appointed pope. relocate to San Bernardino in We recently added Bishop Alberto Rojas, who has As co- February to begin his ministry 10 more seats of a Lifetime! been an auxiliary bishop of the a d j u t o r , as coadjutor bishop. A Mass of for the exclusive Don’t miss this Chicago Archdiocese since Bishop Ro- welcome is planned for Feb. 24. 2020 Passion Play! 2011, as coadjutor bishop of jas, 54, au- Born Jan. 5, 1965, in Aguas- exciting trip. Call today! the Diocese of San Bernardino, tomatically calientes, Mexico, Alberto Ro- Oberammergau Passion Play including Munich, California. b e c o m e s jas studied for the priesthood at Budapest, Danube River dinner cruise, Vienna, Prague. The appointment was an- head of the St. Maria de Guadalupe Semi- July 22-August 1, 2020 nounced in Washington Dec. d i o c e s e nary in Aguascalientes and at 2 by Archbishop Christophe (CNS photo/Sam Lucero, The upon Bish- the University of St. Mary of Compass) Pierre, apostolic to the Bishop Alberto op Barnes’ the Lake/Mundelein Seminary CINDY NICOLOSI TRAVEL United States. Rojas retirement in the Archdiocese of Chicago...... serving all your travel needs Bishop Gerald R. Barnes, 74, or death. He was ordained a priest for Cindy Nicolosi, CTC heads the San Bernardino Dio- The San Bernardino Diocese the Archdiocese of Chicago cese. He turns 75 next June, the has over 1.7 million Catholics in 1997. Pope Benedict XVI 1330 Dresden Rd., Davis, IL 61019 [email protected] age at which law requires out of a total population of over named him a Chicago auxiliary Cell: (815) 298-7460 Home/Offi ce: (815) 248-3106 bishops to turn their resigna- 4.5 million. June 13, 2011. Nation/World The Observer | FRIDAY DECEMBER 13, 2019 | 11 U.S. Brother Beatified on Soccer Fields News in Brief Of Guatemalan School He Served Florida bishop calls mass shooting at naval station ‘truly heartbreaking’ HUEHUETENANGO, Gua- and child malnutrition. temala (CNS)—Christian Blessed Miller was remem- PENSACOLA, Fla. (CNS)—Reacting to “the horrific mass shoot- Brother James Miller taught bered as a martyr for education, ing” that took place early Dec. 6 at Naval Air Station Pensacola, students and served as a vice whose commitment to teaching, Bishop William A. Wack of Pensacola-Tallahassee said the “trag- principal at the La Sallian mentoring and protecting the edy in our diocese is truly heartbreaking.” Three people were shot dead and many others were injured in the shooting and Christian Brothers school in young Mayan men in his care the suspected gunman was a trainee with the Saudi Air Force, this impoverished pocket of ru- cost him his life. according to Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis. At a news conference, ral Guatemala. Christian Brothers in their (CNS photo/Dave Hrbacek, Catholic Spirit) law enforcement officials said eight people were taken to local He was beatified Dec. 7 with a black habits, high school stu- Frank Miley, president of Cretin- hospitals; one of those injured died. Two officers who respond- celebration on the soccer fields of dents in jeans and T-shirts and Derham Hall High School in St. ed to the shooting were among those injured. “Our sympathy the same school he once served. indigenous women in colorful Paul, Minn., stands next to a and prayers go out to those whose lives were taken, as well as It continues to educate students embroidered skirts and blouses bronze bust of Brother James for their families, military service members and first responders, from across Guatemala’s west- clutched photos of the boyish- Miller, who taught at the school and those who were injured,” Bishop Wack said in a statement, ern highlands, a mountainous re- looking Blessed Miller, who from 1966-1971 and again from 1979-1980. adding: “We ask for God’s peace and mercy on our community. gion of Mayan villages rife with spent barely 13 months in Hue- Please join me in prayer during this time of mourning.” suffering high rates of poverty huetenango, but left a legacy of where he directed a Lasallian service to the poor and indig- Christian Brothers school. He enous. arrived in Huehuetenango in Indonesia to deploy 160,000 people Blessed Miller was born into 1981, during the depths of a to protect churches for Christmas a farming family in Stevens civil war. Point, Wisconsin, in 1944. He On Feb. 13, 1982, while many JAKARTA, Indonesia (CNS)— joined the De La Salle Christian of the young men in the Casa In- Nearly 160,000 security Brothers, graduated from St. digena were attending a Valen- personnel will be deployed

(CNS photo/David Agren) Mary’s College, Winona, Min- tine’s Day picnic, Blessed Mill- to try to make Christmas A woman attends the the Dec. nesota, and became drawn to er was shot in broad daylight by and New Year celebrations 7, 2019, beatification Mass Central America. three assailants while he was up in Indonesia safe, reported of Blessed James Miller in He served most of the 1970s on a ladder, fixing the boarding ucanews.org. An official of the Huehuetenango, Guatemala. on Nicaragua’s Atlantic Coast, home’s exterior wall. National Police Traffic Corps (CNS photo/Beawiharta, Reuters) told journalists that police, Armed police stand guard during military personnel and mem- a Dec. 21, 2017, ceremony ahead bers of government agencies of the Christmas and New Year cel- Concerns will guard churches and vital ebrations in Jakarta, Indonesia. tourism sites during the cel- ebrations. “These are our targets which we need to focus on. We About New want to make sure that everything will run peacefully there,” he said. Stanislaus Riyanta, an intelligence analyst from the Univer- sity of Indonesia in West Java province, said authorities should SNAP Rule not let their guard down in light of recent attacks in the country. WASHINGTON (CNS)— Catholic advocates for poor After typhoon, Philippine dioceses people decried a new federal deploy teams to help displaced rule that tightens work require- MANILA, Philippines (CNS)—Catholic Church groups de- (CNS photo/Debbie Hill) ments which determine eligi- ployed teams to assist affected communities Dec. 4, a day after Pope Gives Relic of Crib to Holy Land bility for the Supplemental Nu- a powerful typhoon hit the Philippines, leaving at least four trition Assistance Program and Franciscan Father Rami Asakrieh holds a reliquary containing what people dead. Videos posted on social media showed strong is expected to force hundreds of is believed to be a small fragment of Jesus’ crib Dec. 1, in the Fran- winds ripping off roofs and toppling power lines in the Bicol thousands to lose food stamps. ciscan Church of St. Catherine, which is adjacent to the Basilica of region, south of Philippine capital, Manila. Authorities estimated The advocates said the U.S. the Nativity in Bethlehem, West Bank. Pope Francis gave the relic that about half a million people were displaced; many of them fragment to the Franciscan Custody of the Holy Land, which over- Department of Agriculture rule that affects able-bodied adults were ordered to leave their homes hours before the typhoon sees the main churches and shrines associated with the birth, min- struck. In Legazpi Diocese, one of the worst-affected areas, istry, death and resurrection of Jesus. without dependents does not take into consideration regional Father Rex Arjona, the diocesan social action director, said his differences in the economy, the teams had assessed the immediate needs of people. “The worst March for Life Theme lack of state job training pro- is over for us,” he said, adding that his office was still waiting for grams and the real-life circum- a complete picture of the situation. “We will go around as much stances of people struggling to as we can to get a more substantial assessment.” Borrows Page from History make ends meet. Anthony Granado, vice pres- WASHINGTON (CNS)— ident of government relations The March for Life, the annual at Catholic Charities USA, said march in Washington to protest Pilgrimages for the agency is concerned that legalized abortion in the United more people will go hungry Catholics and States, is tying itself in 2020 to when the changes take effect the women’s suffrage movement April 1. people of all faiths for the 100th anniversary of the Julie Bodnar, policy adviser Your Catholic Tour Company 19th Amendment, which gave in the Department of Domes- women the right to vote. tic Social Development at the The theme of the march is U.S. Conference of Catholic “Life Empowers: Pro-Life Is Bishops, agreed, saying that Pro-Woman.” people’s health would be en- Several trips to different destinations: the Holy Land; Italy; Jeanne Mancini, head of the dangered. France, Portugal, & Spain; Poland; Medjugorje, Lourdes, March for Life, remarked how (CNS photo/Leslie E. Kossoff) The rule affects the ability of & Fatima; Ireland & Scotland; England; Austria, Germany, two noted suffragists of their A young woman joins other pro- states to waive current limits & Switzerland; Greece & Turkey; Budapest; Prague; Our day, Alice Paul and Susan B. life advocates outside the U.S. Su- on SNAP benefits. Current law Lady of Guadalupe; Domestic Destinations; etc. Anthony, were themselves preme Court Jan. 27, 2017, dur- allows able-bodied adults with- staunchly against abortion. ing the annual March for Life in out dependents to receive ben- A video made to support the Washington. efits for a maximum of three upcoming march, to be held Jan. months during a three-year pe- million female babies had been 24, said the women called abor- riod, provided they are working tion “the ultimate exploitation aborted since the twin 1973 Su- or enrolled in an education or of women.” An unnamed wom- preme Court rulings that legal- training program for a mini- www.proximotravel.com an speaking in the video said 30 ized abortion on demand. mum of 80 hours a month. [email protected] 12 | FRIDAY DECEMBER 13, 2019 | The Observer Our Catholic View

Faith Alive Pio Nono Destruction is Not Loving In my last column I Ethically Speaking (Matthew 21:12,13; Flees the wrote about the theft and etc.). On the surface attempted destruction of by Father it may seem a natural Vatican the Amazonian statues Kenneth comparison, but there are An eminent passenger (commonly referred to Wasilewski critical differences. as the pachamama) that departed at night from Diocesan Ethicist To understand these, took place in Rome this we first must realize that Rome’s Quirinal Palace on [email protected] October. This was in throughout Jesus’ ministry Nov. 24, 1848, unrecogniz- keeping with my columns on the Seventh He did things that revealed His true identity able as his carriage pro- (CNS file photo) Commandment. as God. For example, His miracles, His ceeded. He resembled any Pope Pius IX is pictured in an un- Part of my motivation was the forgiving sins, and His Sabbath practices, mid-19th-century Italian dated portrait. He convoked the commentary surrounding the events, much to name a few. Many who saw these things country priest. First Vatican Council in 1869. of which was foreign to the Church’s moral accused Him of blasphemy. Had some It was the historic night teaching, even by people who were sincere of His words or actions come from other Catholics. I saw this as a teaching moment. people, they would have been blasphemous. Blessed Pius IX fled Rome in disguise, not knowing what Given the previously mentioned the future held. This was the successor of Peter and ruler The difference is because of who Jesus is commentary, I expected some negative — He’s God, not someone pretending to be of central Italy’s Papal States. If he returned, would Pius comments myself. Nevertheless, I was God. Therefore, He has the authority to do (Pio Nono) continue as that region’s virtual king? surprised by the amount and tone of some things like cleanse the temple. His flight’s drama is conveyed compellingly in “The of them. There were a few consistent There is another problem with the Pope Who Would Be King: The Exile of Pius IX and the objections to what I wrote. Therefore, it comparison as well. Jesus did not take the Emergence of Modern Europe,” a 2018 book by David I. seems appropriate to address them here in money changers money and throw it into a an attempt at further clarification. river. He disrupted their activity, but did not Kertzer, a Brown University professor of Italian studies. One objection was that the man’s actions destroy their property. An analogy might “Thousands of Romans had besieged the Quirinal” were not actually theft as I had claimed. help clarify further. about a week earlier, “calling for a government of their The Catechism of the Catholic Church is I have authority to put a sign in my yard choosing and an end to priestly rule,” Kertzer wrote. By clear when it defines theft as, “usurping because it’s my property. If someone puts another’s property against the reasonable contrast, earlier that year “a huge crowd bellowing ‘Viva il a disagreeable sign in my yard, I am free to will of the owner” (CCC 2408). papa!’ had poured into Quirinal Square.” take it down since I have authority over my Furthermore, it also reminds us that, The pope did not lack all support. Yet now he effec- own property (just as Jesus had authority “Willfully damaging private or public tively was “a prisoner, his palace surrounded by hostile” property is contrary to the moral law and over the Temple because, as God, it was guardsmen, Kertzer observed. requires reparation” (CCC 2409). Given ultimately His). Preparing to flee, Pio Nono changed out of recogniz- these citations, making the claim that no I’m not however, free to steal or destroy able papal garments into black clerical garb and, said theft was involved seems a difficult position a disagreeable sign in my neighbor’s yard. Kertzer, a “floppy, black cleric’s hat” with “thick dark to maintain. I am free to express my displeasure, even This leads to another common objection. object to authorities if warranted, but basic glasses” added. Christian respect, civility and the Seventh In Kertzer’s recounting, the pope planned to exit the Namely, that sometimes one is justified in doing something wrong (like stealing or Commandment prohibit me from crossing palace via a secret passage, while the French ambassador lying), if it accomplishes something good. certain lines. to the Holy See remained alone in the pope’s receiving This has never been acceptable moral Besides, Jesus teaches His disciples a room, talking aloud. Thus, anyone outside might suspect reasoning for Catholics. better way. When James and John ask Pio Nono still was there, conversing. Just ask St. Paul. In Romans 3:8 we read to call down heavenly fire to consume The plan succeeded. The pope passed through a that we are not to do evil so that good may inhospitable Samaritans, Jesus rebukes palace gate, headed toward safety in Gaeta, a town near come from it. In other words, the end does them. Rather than teaching destruction of one’s enemies (or their property), Jesus Naples. not justify the means. St. John Paul II, definitively ended any serious debate about teaches us to love even those we disagree Pio Nono’s flight highlights the threat sensed in 1848. this in his encyclical, Veritatis Splendor with (religiously or otherwise). It wasn’t the first time a campaign for Italy’s unification (nos. 75-77). We show the true glory, goodness and meant turbulence for the Papal States. Their decline oc- The most universal objection to what I strength of our Christian faith, and our curred over time. wrote though, was that the man who stole love of God, not through the destruction of — David Gibson for CNS and attempted to destroy the statues was inanimate objects of another religion, but Next: Pio Nono Returns to the Vatican doing the same thing that Jesus did when through loving acts toward all, even those He cleansed the Temple in Jerusalem we may find the most disagreeable.

Scripture Reflection for Dec. 15, 3rd Sunday of Advent Remember the Wonder of Advent

BY JEM SULLIVAN journey to the Christ Child. It’s never too late to The wonder of Advent is knowing that we will not Catholic News Service begin again in the spiritual life. Thanks be to God! be disappointed. From the beginning of creation, God For again the Lord calls us to calm our fears, has desired the friendship of all those he has loved he midpoint of Advent is a perfect place to quiet our hearts and loosen our grip on the often into existence. That is you and me! Advent is a time to pause and take spiritual stock of our journey superficial, unreasonable demands of the season. ponder the mystery of God who comes in search of us. to the awesome, wondrous gift of the com- God’s word leads us gently to look away from our Jesus announces the signs and wonders that ing of God in Jesus, the word made flesh. own feeble efforts in the spiritual life to focus instead accompany God’s relentless search for us when he T With less than two weeks to on the radical wonder of what God is doing in our says, “Go and tell John what you hear and see: The Christmas, it’s easy to lose hearts and minds this Advent. blind regain their sight, the lame walk, lepers are our spiritual focus. As the prophet Isaiah says, “Strengthen the hands We may have begun that are feeble, make firm the knees that are weak, cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the Advent with the best of say to those whose hearts are frightened: Be strong, poor have the good news proclaimed to them.” good intentions. But the fear not! Here is your God ... he comes to save you.” Advent awakens us to recognizing the signs and growing list of tasks to The same Advent hope is reflected in the prayer of wonders that God is working in our lives today. complete, gatherings to the psalmist, “Lord, come and save us.” We call to As we recommit to the spiritual journey of Advent, attend and preparations mind all the things we need to be saved from! The God’s word invites us to fix our gaze on Jesus, as to make will inevitably sin of the world and our own weaknesses and failings John the Baptist did. Then with eyes of faith fixed on sidetrack our best efforts to draw near to the Lord this awaken us to the reality that we are all sinners who Jesus, the word made flesh, our Advent longing will Advent. The hectic pace of the season may leave us stand in need of divine mercy. transform into joyful hope as we pray, “speak to me, feeling overwhelmed and frazzled, with less and less Awaiting this divine mercy, we grow in Advent Lord.” time for prayer or spiritual reading. virtues of patience, firmness of heart and spiritual On this Third Sunday of Advent, God’s word longing for God, particularly through the sacrament Reflection questions: What wonders has God invites us to get back on track with our spiritual of confession. worked in your life this Advent? Our Catholic View The Observer | FRIDAY DECEMBER 13, 2019 | 13 Di erent View CNS/Joe Heller Spiritual Anger: A Vice for Our Time Carmelite Father Marc Foley has written a terrifi c book that makes St. John of the Cross more easy to understand. “The Dark Night: Psychological Experience and Spiritual Reality,” starts with challenges faced by beginners in prayer. One section seems written Person in the Pew for our present day with all its frustrations and volatile by Amanda tone: Father Marc’s on Hudson Spiritual Anger. News Editor Anger of all kinds is a The Observer reaction to frustrated desires, [email protected] including spiritual frustrations. St. John identifi es three kinds. Anger as a reaction to a lack of consolation in prayer. When we begin to take prayer seriously, God gives us feelings of delight and fulfi llment to help us keep praying. 1But at some point, our prayer will go dry. “Unhappy and peevish” is how Father Marc names the feelings that result. Those who indulge this anger often become unbearable and intolerable. However, the imperfection of this and other kinds of spiritual anger resides not in the unhappy feelings, but in our reactions to them. Feelings do no harm spiritually, St. John says, if we accept A Special Trip Home for Christmas God’s grace not to act on them. In this case, we keep showing up for prayer and doing the best we can even when we would rather Sixty-seven years have Seeking Life 15 years old, common at be off doing something that feels fulfi lling. gone by, but the voice that time. Her fi rst son, Bonus: such prayer attempts with no consolations are the of Bing Crosby, “I’ll be by Moises Antonio, was born when greatest opportunities to grow in virtue! home for Christmas ...” she was 17 but died when Sandoval Anger directed at others. still tugs on the heart. he was barely a year old. Some spiritual people begin looking for the imperfections This season in 1952 I was the second son, of others. That active pursuit can distort their perspective, found me in Milwaukee, born when she was 18. 2making others’ small faults and failings seem huge. These working two part-time Catholic News Service In a memoir, she wrote harshly critical people can be further deceived into thinking they jobs and going to Marquette University that I was her joy and consolation. “I was are being virtuous, perfect and zealous for the Lord. full time. There I had met four students so afraid that he, too, would get sick and “Such blindness is frightening and can rob us of our from the Denver area who, like me, had die that I would not leave him alone for humanity,” Father Marc says, adding that St. Teresa of Avila saw never been that far away from home. a minute.” She told me that night in 1952 the result of such “zeal” as the “cooling of charity and love.” As Christmas approached, we were one that we had grown up together. Anger toward self. homesick lot, counting the days to the end As the others slept and we talked We may realize we could do better spiritually, but when of the semester. The last line of the famous about many things, I felt again the fi erce we can’t accept ourselves for who we are, when we make 3plans and resolutions that we can’t fulfi ll, we’ll become more Christmas song goes: “I’ll be home for unconditional love she had for me. She Christmas, if only in my was so proud that I had and more frustrated and angry as we strive for imaginary, dreams.” But we were survived and grown into unattainable perfection. It can become a nasty, depressing cycle. having none of that. ook, my Moises manhood. Perhaps feeling Father Marc quotes St. Francis de Sales on being willing to One of the guys had a has come home an immense gratitude to bear one’s own faults with patient humility. “We must suff er our car and he off ered us a ‘L God, she suddenly said, imperfection in order to have perfection.” ride. With the last class for Christmas.’ “Let’s go to Mass in the All of these spiritual angers are, says St. John, “contrary to over on the last day of morning.” spiritual meekness and can only be remedied by the purgation the semester, we met on So, at 6 a.m. at St. of the dark night.” Although it is God who must complete the campus, jumped in the car and, in the Augustine Church we joined the pastor, process, we begin the active dark night with our own eff orts to gathering dark, headed for Denver, now Father Roy Figlino, a tall, gruff -talking become more meek and less angry. 1,045 miles away on four-lane interstate Italian, for the celebration. Then Mom What, precisely, is this virtue of meekness? Aristotle saw highways but much farther then on two- led me to the sacristy so she could tell meekness as the midpoint between apathy and excessive anger. lane roads. him: “Look, my Moises has come home Father Marc quotes him as saying meekness is where we get We had to go through every small town for Christmas.” Father Figlino, always the “angry at the right things and with the right people, and also in and big city along the way. We got there in overseer, interrogated me about whether the right way and at the right time and for the right length of a little more than 24 hours, stopping only I was keeping up with the sacraments. I time.” In other words, our anger doesn’t take over. to gas up, change drivers, grab a sandwich assured him the Jesuits rode herd on us Meekness, Father Marc says, “is a part of temperance, the and go to the restroom. very hard. cardinal virtue that orders and harmonizes our passions and I got home in the middle of the night. Father Figlino knew us well; seven of appetites with reason.” The small frame house to which I had so us brothers had been altar boys at the For extra motivation as we strive for meekness, we can try to longed to return stood dark and forlorn same time. We still have a photo of us, in step outside ourselves and recall how unattractive it is to lose alongside Fourth Street in Brighton, surplices and cassocks, posing in front of ourselves to anger. Father Marc quotes St. John Chrysostom who leading to the main highway to Denver, 20 the altar with Father Figlino, his assistant, says such behavior is being like “wild asses, kicking and biting. miles away. Everyone was asleep, but one Father Lyons, and our parents. Many Truly a passionate man is not a graceful one.” of my seven brothers heard my knock and years later, after reading my book on the “If we are always losing our temper (with God, with others, let me in. Hispanic church, he wrote that he was with ourselves), the danger is that we can lose ourselves,” Father My mother got up and, overjoyed to proud of our family. Marc says. see me, said: “You must be hungry.” She I have many memories of that fi rst visit But when we resist anger and the other spiritual faults of fried eggs and potatoes and baked some home, connecting again with my siblings beginners — which are all manifestations of capital sins — we tortillas, which I had been craving for and visiting relatives, but the one most please God and grow in the virtues. months. Then we sat there talking for a deeply etched was spending much of the Even better, God will notice and help our active-night eff orts long time. fi rst night in quiet conversation with my with His graces — and eventually provide a passive night to My mother had married when she was mother. deeply purge and free us more and more from sin.

To send letters to us please use one of the following: Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, Mail: The Observer, Email: or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of The Diocese of Rockford [email protected] 555 Colman Center Drive (Please put Letter to the Editor in speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, P.O. Box 7044 the subject line.) and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances. Rockford, IL 61125 Please provide your name, address, Fax: 815/399-6225 and phone number. — The First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution 14 | FRIDAY DECEMBER 13, 2019 | The Observer For the Record

Deaths Parish offices may forward death and wedding information AURORA—Holy Angels: Mary using forms at http://observer.rockforddiocese.org. Click on M. Feiden, 77, Dec. 4; Contact Us , then click on the death or wedding form. You may also request death and wedding postcards by calling 815/399- St. Joseph: Carmen Lewis, 90, 4300, ext. 383. We encourage you to send the information as Nov. 30; soon as you receive it. Thank you. DEKALB—St. Mary: Rafael Es- trada, 45, Nov. 30; St. Stanislaus Kostka: Serafina and only four percent was left to ELGIN—St. Thomas More: Vanek, 96, Nov. 16; Theresa Klip- pull the load. Your Church needs William Moylan, 77, Nov. 27; Su- per, 89, Nov. 25; much more than four percent of its san Roman, 48, Nov. 28; SOMONAUK—St. John the members pulling the load, giving of their time and talent. HUNTLEY—St. Mary: Pre- Baptist: Robert Zaininger, 73, cioso Abordo, 80, Nov. 14; Mary Nov. 26; Courtesy of Parish Publications Lou Kitzman, 55, Nov. 22; Genara “Stewardship” newsletter Reyes, 93, Nov. 22; Richard Geary, SPRING GROVE—St. Peter: Leona Ann Olsen, 59, Nov. 16. 61, Nov. 29; Carmin Stramaglia, Mass Meditation 86, Dec. 2; Weddings ROCHELLE—St. Patrick: Fred Sunday, Dec. 15 (3rd Advent): J. Walters, 82, Nov. 25; Rosalie M. AURORA—St. Therese of Je- Each of us has his or her own Boehle, 96, Nov. 29; sus: Valeria Martinez and Orlando role to play in the coming of the kingdom of God. John the Baptist ROCKFORD—St. Bernadette: Gallegos, Nov. 30; was called to be the herald of the Dora Salbego 92, Aug. 28; Ger- MCHENRY—Church of Holy Messiah, preparing the way of the ald Baker, 85, Aug. 30; Michael Apostles: Shanna Brogan and Lord. To what is the Lord calling Guzzo, 101, Sept. 4; Joyce Ken- Taylor Kunz, Nov. 30. me? nedy, 86, Sept. 5; Florence Lillian Smith, 97, Sept. 10; Alice Pinney, Stewardship Moment Courtesy of Sharon Hueckel 93, Sept. 11; Louis D’Agnolo, Sr., 86, Sept. 26; Gloria Barrette, 89, Enough to pull the load: In a Life Moment Oct. 6; Mary Bennett, 91, Oct. 9; museum at Greenfield Village in Virginia Stanek, 83, Oct. 18; James Dearborn, Michigan, there is a Pray: That world leaders may pre- Baldwin, 83, Oct. 22; Gilbert Aus- huge steam locomotive. Beside pare the way for the coming of the tin, 77, Oct. 31; Donald Joe Baker, this complicated piece of machin- Lord by fostering harmony, au- 87, Nov. 24; ery is a sign that indicates that 96 thentic dialogue, and sincere con- cern for their people. St. James: Richard Rever, 74, percent of the power generated Nov.7; was used to move the locomotive, Courtesy of www.priestsforlife.org

OBITUARY  WILLIAM DANIEL MOYLAN ministration in the Crystal Lake High Julia and Jim King, and many nieces ELGIN—William Daniel Moylan, School District where he served as and nephews. He is survived by eleven Jr., 77, passed away Nov. 27, 2019. a Vice Principal at Cary Grove High terrific grandchildren: Rita, Lisa, and at home in Hospice. He was born in School, Crystal Lake Central High Daniel Semro, Lillian, Dominic, and If you or someone you know Chicago Dec. 31, 1941 to William School, and retired from Prairie Ridge Nina Mini, William, Jack, and Declan High School in 2002 as a Department has been the victim of sexual D. Moylan, Sr. and Catherine Smith Quincey, and Greta and Liam Kirby. Chair and teacher. In Elgin he was a abuse by an employee or mem- Moylan. He grew up in Oak Park and A funeral Mass was held on Monday, thirty year member of St. Thomas attended Marmion Military Academy Dec. 2, 2019, at 10 a.m at St. Thomas ber of the clergy of the Rockford More Parish. He was a 27 year Friend and St. Meinrad Seminary. He gradu- More Catholic Church, Elgin. Burial Diocese, report the matter to of Bill W. Bill is survived by his loving Newspapers • Catalogs • Mail Service will be private. Visitation was Sunday law enforcement in the county ated from Loyola University with a wife of 54 years, Sue, whom he met at Business Cards • Magazines • Brochures from 4-8 p.m. at Laird Funeral Home, in which the conduct occurred B.A. in History in 1963, and an M.A. Loyola University. He will be dearly 815-758-5484 and then please call the hot-line in History in 1965. He began teach- missed by his daughters Elizabeth Elgin and again on Monday at church 121 Industrial Drive • DeKalb, IL 60115 number: 815-293-7540. ing history at Rockford Boylan High (Joseph) Semro, Catherine (Michael) from 9:15 a.m. until the time of Mass. School (1965 to 1973) while attending Mini, Rosemary (Brian) Quincey, and In lieu of flowers, memorials may be Northern Illinois University to attain Martha (Frank Kreiger), and by his made to Loyola University Chicago History Department. Arrangements The Observer accepts paid obituaries from funeral homes for members of his Administrative Certificate. His ad- sister Margaret Bandy(Charles), and parishes in the Diocese of Rockford. Parishioners may ask funeral homes ministrative career began as the first sisters and brothers in law Michael and by Laird Funeral Home. For informa- with which they work to call 815/399-4300 for information. principal of Huntley High School from Patricia Nelis, Robert and Sheila Nelis, tion, please call 847-741-8800 or www. 1973 to 1978. He then joined the ad- Mary and Bill Brennan, Ann Bell, and lairdfamilyfuneralservices.com

The Observer accepts paid obituaries from funeral homes for members of parishes in the Diocese of Rockford. Parishioners may ask funeral homes with which they work to call 815/399-4300 for information. Media /Arts The Observer | FRIDAY DECEMBER 13, 2019 | 15 Movie Tells of Orphans Helped by Guardian Angels SAN DIEGO (CNS)— “You just almost instinctive- When it debuted in late 2018, ly want to think of them as your “Buttons: A Christmas Tale” guardian angels, if they could boasted an impressive number be,” he said. of famous names and familiar The star-studded film’s faces,but it was shown in select cast also includes Jane Sey- theaters only Dec. 8, 2018. mour (“Dr. Quinn, Medicine Fortunately for the many Woman”), Roma Downey who missed their one chance (“Touched by an Angel”), to see it last year, the film was Ioan Gruffudd (“The Fantastic released on DVD Dec. 3, just Four” movies), Robert Picar- in time for the holidays. It was do (“Star Trek: Voyager”), released on digital platforms (CNS photo/Paramount Home Entertainment) John de Lancie (Q from “Star Nov. 19. Dick Van Dyke and Angela Lansbury star as guardian angels in “But- Trek: The Next Generation”), (Observer screengrab/www.paramountmovies.com) The musical film tells the tons: A Christmas Tale.” The 2018 musical film was released on DVD Charles Shaughnessy (“The interconnected stories of two Dec. 3. Nanny”), and Abigail Spencer the music for and made his di- rectorial debut with “Buttons,” orphans who overcome heart- Lansbury so well-suited for the filmographies. And, in such (then the star of NBC’s time- break and adversity at Christ- travel drama “Timeless”). said the film is a reminder “that role of guardian angels? beloved films as “Mary Pop- mas time, thanks to the watch- If that weren’t enough, Acad- you’re not alone and that you For Tim Janis, it has some- pins” (starring Van Dyke) and ful care and timely help of a pair emy Award-winners Robert should have hope.” of guardian angels, played by thing to do with the fact that “Bedknobs and Broomsticks” Redford and Kate Winslet are To stream, go to https://www. Hollywood legends Dick Van the two nonagenarian actors (with Lansbury), he said, they the film’s narrators. paramountmovies.com/movies/ Dyke and Angela Lansbury. are “so much a part of our project “such a warm, caring American composer Tim Ja- buttons-a-christmas-tale. The What makes Van Dyke and youth” thanks to their lengthy presence.” nis, who co-wrote, composed DVD is available at amazon.com At the Gift Books for Children Cover Catechism, Faith Movies The following children’s pected, revealing to the reader belief and effort. Here, in jour- The Seed Who Was books are suitable for Christ- that faith shared joyfully is nal form for Catholic youth, Afraid to Be Planted mas giving: contagious. the growth mindset is put into Maybe it is the sweet, frown- A gently told original story, practice. Author Ginny Kochis ing seed with sad dripping “Drawing God” leaves readers focuses on the virtues to help tears on the cover that draws feeling hopeful. Parents and guide readers into finding their children to the book. Or per- catechists will be glad to find purpose. haps it is those familiar child- Sparingly illustrated in color, passages for extension and re- hood feelings of apprehension (CNS photo/Focus Features) the book uses holy men and flection at the end of the book. and delight at a happy ending women as role models, and in- Dark Waters Ages 3-10. that makes children come back corporates moments for writ- for more. Regardless, “The (Focus) ing, reflecting and putting faith Seed Who Was Afraid to Be A-III Fact-based drama (CNS photos) into action. “Made for Great- Planted” hooks little readers. PG-13 about poisoned “Drawing God” by Karen Kiefer, ness” would be an appropriate The book tells the story of a water has a single illustrated by Kathy De Wit. Para- gift for Christmas, to kick start seed who, without his choice clete Press (Brewster, Massachu- crusading lawyer (Mark a New Year’s resolution, or in and despite his fear, is bur- setts, 2019). 32 pp., $17.99. Ruffalo) taking on a power- celebration of the sacrament of rowed into the earth and be- ful company — in this case, confirmation. Ages 10 and up. Drawing God comes a large joyful tree. The DuPont — that’s been dump- book has several themes: hope, ing industrial waste around “Drawing God” authenti- conversion and faith, to name Parkersburg, W.V. cally captures the innocence, a few. It is up to the parents PARENTS: THIS FILM CON- excitement and imagination of and child to explore the book’s TAINS rough and profane faith-filled children. The book messages and make it their language, animal gore. tells the story of a young girl own. Ages 4 and up. inspired by a recent trip to the — By Regina Lordan, Catholic art museum to draw a picture of “Made for Greatness: A Growth News Service God. She starts with a glorious Mindset Journal for Catholic sun, but is met at school with Youth” by Ginny Kochis. Not So Read reviews of disagreement at her creation. Formulaic/Zelie Press (Stafford, more books Then she tries to draw her Virginia, 2019). 108 pp., $22.50. suitable mother’s warm loaf of bread. Made for Greatness “The Seed Who Was Afraid to be as gifts for Again, she is met with criti- Planted” by Anthony DeStefano, children at cism. After another try, the de- The growth mindset is an illustrated by Erwin Madrid. So- http://observer. (Observer screengrag/ www.paramountmovies.com) empowering pedological the- pleted little girl turns to God. phia Institute Press (Manchester, rockforddiocese.org/ ory that achievement and in- New Hampshire, 2019). 30 pp., God speaks to her the follow- book-club-blog. Playmobil: The Movie ing day in a way she never ex- telligence can improve with $16.95. (STX) A-II Four years after their PG parents were killed On TV in a car accident, a formerly free-spirited teen Broadcast times may vary; check Jews and Christians in medi- Eve in Rome” — Dec. 24, 12:30 p.m. (EWTN): Mass girl (Anya Taylor-Joy) and her local listings. eval Spain forged a common 2:30-4:30 p.m. (EWTN): Pope for Christmas Day broadcast fun-loving younger brother “A Charlie Brown Christmas” cultural identity (TV-14 — Francis celebrates the Solem- live from the Basilica of the (Gabriel Bateman) are magi- — Dec. 17, 7-8 p.m. (ABC): parents strongly cautioned). nity of the Birth of Our Lord National Shrine of the Im- maculate Conception in cally transported to a world Late cartoonist Charles M. “I Want a Dog for Christ- from St. Peter’s Basilica (TV-G). Washington. (TV-G). inhabited by toys. He is Schulz’s classic animated “Pea- mas, Charlie Brown!” — “Urbi et Orbi: Message and kidnapped, she tries to rescue nuts” special airs along with Dec. 22, 6-7 p.m. (ABC): Blessing” — Dec. 25, 5-5:30 “Lucy Worsley’s 12 Days of a series of holiday-themed him. The meandering musical Animated special center- a.m. EST (EWTN): Pope Tudor Christmas” — Dec. adventure is too frightening animated shorts titled “Charlie ing on Rerun, the lovable Francis delivers his Christmas 25, 7-8 p.m. (PBS): Royal for tots. Brown’s Christmas Tales” based historian and TV personality but ever-skeptical younger blessing to the city of Rome PARENTS: THIS FILM CON- on Schulz’s work (TV-G — gen- Lucy Worsley examines the brother of Linus and Lucy, and the world. The event will TAINS peril, stylized combat eral audience). Tudor-era origins of some and Snoopy’s canine brother, be rerun 2:30-3 p.m. (TV-G ). violence, two vaguely crass “The Ornament of the favorite Christmas traditions terms. World” — Dec. 17, 7-9 p.m. Spike (TV-G ). “Solemn Mass of Christmas (TV-PG — parental guidance — Catholic News Service (PBS): A look at how Muslims, “Solemn Mass of Christmas Day.” Dec. 25, 11 a.m.- suggested). 16 | FRIDAY DECEMBER 13, 2019 | The Observer Diocesan Archbishop Sheen’s Peoria Beatifi cation Postponed PEORIA (CNS)—Bishop bishops to intervene were not a further review of his role in tober 1969. He received the title Daniel R. Jenky of Peoria said released. priests’ assignments.” of archbishop at retirement. Vatican offi cials have told him The diocese added, “In our The statement said the Roch- Bishop Fulton J. Sheen made that the upcoming beatifi cation current climate it is impor- ester Diocese, prior to the several visits to the Rockford of Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen tant for the faithful to know Vatican announcement Nov. Diocese, beginning in the has been postponed. that there has never been, nor 18 that Pope Francis approved 1930s when he was still a mon- A news release from the is there now, any allegation the beatifi cation, had provided signor. Diocese of Peoria said it was against (Archbishop) Sheen in- documentation expressing its In September 1961, he drew informed Dec. 2 that the Vati- volving the abuse of a minor.” concern to the Diocese of Peo- what was then the largest can had decided to postpone A Dec. 5 statement from the ria and the Congregation for crowd ever to the Rockford Ar- the Dec. 21 ceremony “at the Diocese of Rochester, N.Y., Saints’ Causes via the apostolic mory, 3,000 people. He was the request of a few members” of said it had “expressed concern nunciature in Washington. keynote speaker at a rally spon- (Observer le photo) the U.S. Conference of Catho- about advancing the cause for Archbishop Sheen was bish- sored by the Holy Name Soci- Bishop Fulton J. Sheen speaks at lic Bishops. the beatifi cation of Archbish- op of Rochester from October ety of Rockford. His host was the Rockford Armory in Septem- Details on what prompted the op Sheen at this time without 1966 until his retirement in Oc- Bishop Loras T. Lane. ber 1961. FOREVER FAMILY Find more Forever Family ideas at www.pinterest.com/TheObserverRkfd/

FAMILY Welcome Wise Men CORNER Projects for the Christmas School Break

Prayer for BY SHARON BOEHLEFELD of your usual Features Editor supplies. Charity in Putting the efore they get bored during fi gures together Truth this Christmas break, get a few is as easy as it crafts ready for the kids at your looks. And if Father, your truth is made the challenge of house. Parents and grandparents the Magi isn’t known in your Word. will have fun helping the kids enough, this Guide us to seek the truth of make things to remind them of the season. craft is easily the human person. B expandable to Teach us the way to love include Mary, We found a couple of new crafts for kids when we because you are Love. Joseph and went looking around the web. The fi rst, from Mollie’s (Observer screen grab/ http:// ndingthegoldengleam.com/2012/12/ shepherds. You advent-nativity-story-rocks/) Mom blog (https://madebymolliesmom.blogspot. could use a Jesus, you embody Love and com/2011/07/more-christmas-in-july-three-wisemen. html), is a paint craft (popsicle) stick for Baby Jesus. Truth. Rock painting is a popular craft right now, especially Help us to recognize your face stick craft that uses odds and for folks who are hiding rocks and sharing their fi nds in the poor. ends — scrap on line. But we found a set of Advent Story Rocks on Enable us to live out our fabrics, glitter, Pinterest that we liked. vocation to bring love and felt, ribbon and The original post is several years old and the link to justice to your people. glue — that the painting instructions is missing, but there are lots of you might others online. Most recommend brand-name supplies, already have in but you can pick your own. Two we liked are https:// Holy Spirit, you inspire us to a craft bin or rhythmsofplay.com/get-outside-connect-collect-and- transform our world. sewing drawer. paint-rocks/ and https://paintedrocklife.com/index. Empower us to seek the You might have php/2017/04/13/how-rock-painting-works/. common good for all to buy some If you want to try using the image suggestions for persons. craft paint for the Advent Story Rocks we found, you can fi nd the Give us a spirit of solidarity the bodies of details on our Pinterest board The Observer Advent and make us one human the Wise Men, and Christmas. But you and your painters can use the (Observer screen grab/Mollie’s Mom blog) if that’s not one Gospels as your inspiration, too. family.

We ask this through Christ our hat does that Child, born for us of the Virgin Mary, have Lord. Amen. Wto tell us? What is the universal message of Christmas? It — From the USCCB; based on Pope is that God is a good Father and we are all brothers and sisters. Benedict XVI’s 2009 encyclical, Caritas in Veritate (Charity in — Pope Francis Truth) ‘ ’