50¢ December 7, 2008 Think Green Volume 82, No. 45 Recycle www.diocesefwsb.org/TODAY Serving the Diocese of Fort Wayne-South Bend this paper TTODAYODAY’’SS CCATHOLICATHOLIC

Ecumenical Advent service Advent is upon us celebrates shared Christianity Second part in Msgr. McDonnell’s reflection BY DENISE FEDOROW Page 12

ELKHART — Clergy, choir members and lay people from 23 different churches came together as one to cel- ebrate the event that unites us all as Christians — the Catholic, Lutheran Advent of the birth of our Lord and Savior. The Advent Lessons and Carols service was held at Advent vespers St. Vincent de Paul Church, Elkhart, on Sunday, Nov. 30. This was the ninth year for the ecumenical event, Fort Wayne service which according to St. Vincent Music Director Lucy Minichillo, grew from a combined choir service held welcomes bishops with St. Thomas and St. Vincent parishes in Elkhart Page 3 years ago. The 64-member ecumenical choir is under the direction of Walter Ginter, retired University of Notre Dame professor. Ginter said what he enjoys most about this event is “working with the people — they’re Money matters a good bunch.” The choir rehearsed together for several weeks Give from the heart prior to the event. Minichillo said organizing the event Pages 8-9 is a pleasure. “People like to come back. I give Walter a lot of the credit for that — he makes it enjoyable for them. ‘Perfection with a smile,’” she said. Father Phil De Volder, pastor of St. Vincent, wel- comed everyone to the service. He acknowledged that Book of the Month sometimes there are differences in the way that we practice our faith or in our beliefs. ‘The Blessing of Christmas’ by “But today we all gather to celebrate the coming of our common Savior, our precious Lord and we rejoice Pope Benedict XVI in our common faith in the Lord Jesus,” he said. Page 14 Father De Volder told the congregation as he lit the first Advent candle that we pray for the darkness to be dispelled. The service consisted of several readings, prayers and hymns — some in Spanish. There was a free will collection for Church Community Services in Monday, Dec. 8 Elkhart, a non-denominational food pantry and other social services. is Holy Day After the service, Father De Volder said, “I don’t think we could’ve gotten better music at Notre Dame The Immaculate Conception of or some other large cathedral than we heard here the Blessed Virgin Mary tonight — the music was heavenly.” DENISE FEDOROW A chili supper was held in the Mother Teresa Center Father Phil DeVolder lights the first Advent candle at the ecumenical Advent service held following the service. Nov. 30. Twenty-three churches were represented in the event that is in its ninth year. THROWING THE FOOTBALL Pope begins Advent by asking Christians to be signs of hope and his midday Angelus address at the BY CINDY WOODEN Vatican afterward all focused on Advent as a time to remember that Christ became VATICAN CITY (CNS) — In their prayers human, died for our sins, rose from the and through their actions in Advent, dead and will return at the end of time. Christians are called to be signs of hope for Advent hope, he said during the evening a world marked by holiness and justice, prayer service, is a recognition of the ongo- Pope Benedict XVI said. ing need for salvation. TIM JOHNSON “Advent is the spiritual season of hope “We do not await the Lord as some par excellence, when the whole church is beautiful decoration for a world already Bishop John M. D’Arcy tosses the football called to become hope for itself and for the saved,” he said, but as the only one who at the rally before the state title game world,” the pope said Nov. 29 as he cele- can bring to completion the work begun brated vespers on the eve of the first with his incarnation, death and resurrec- between Bishop Dwenger High School and Sunday of Advent. tion. Indianpolis Cathedral. Bishop D’Arcy The pope’s homily at the evening prayer In his Angelus address, the pope said service in St. Peter’s Basilica, the morning Advent is a time when Christians prepare to offered a prayer and congratulated the team Mass he celebrated Nov. 30 at Rome’s Basilica of St. Lawrence Outside the Walls for its successes. Game coverage on page 13. ADVENT, PAGE 3 2 TODAY’ S CATHOLIC DECEMBER 7, 2008 TODAY’S CATHOLIC

Official newspaper of the Advent is a time for Catholic Diocese of Fort Wayne-South Bend P.O. Box 11169 Fort Wayne, IN 46856 charity; gift of the heart PUBLISHER: Bishop John M. D’Arcy Also about family and a beautiful dinner with Father Rybicki EDITOR: Tim Johnson and Mary Glowaski, and our longtime litur- Seventeen children. One of them is the gy director, Beverly Rieger, an excellent NEWS EDITOR and STAFF WRITER: Kay mayor of Fort Wayne; others are leaders in musician, now liturgy director at St. John’s. Cozad business and active in parish churches. Mass on Sunday at the cathedral, and in the NEWS This is an age when the child is less wel- evening, our wonderful traditional Catholic Editorial Department come. Pope John Paul II, not long before and Lutheran prayer service, so beautifully his death, in a historic speech before the PAGE DESIGNER: Francie Hogan &NOTES carried out at St. Matthew’s Lutheran Italian parliament, pleaded that people Church on Goshen Road. FREELANCE WRITERS: Lauren Caggiano, would be open to children. He told the peo- Ann Carey, Michelle Castleman, Karen BISHOP JOHN M. D’ARCY ple of that beloved country that they had no Clifford, Elmer J. Danch, Michelle future, for there is no future without chil- Some beautiful moments ahead Donaghey, Bonnie Elberson, Denise dren. In Western Europe, population is on A catechetical day with our Hispanic Fedorow, Diane Freeby, May Lee A heart which sees the decline. catechists on Saturday at Our Lady of Johnson, Sister Margie Lavonis, CSC, It is a time for Christian charity, for Jerry and his extraordinary wife, Marganelle, knew this and our community Guadalupe Church, Warsaw, presided over Joe Kozinski and Deb Wagner Catholic charity, in the deepest sense. I is richer for their love and their openness to by Father Virgil Elizondo. An ecumenical received figures this year from St. Mary’s prayer service scheduled for Sunday at St. Soup Kitchen. They are feeding 30 percent life. Business Department One person present at the wake said to Adalbert, Mass earlier at St. Matthew. I talk more than a year ago. The same is true of to the Fort Wayne St. Vincent de Paul BUSINESS MANAGER: Kathy Denice St. Vincent de Paul, Catholic Charities and Jerry Jr., “Your father had nothing, and yet AD GRAPHICS DIRECTOR: Mark Weber he had everything.” Society the following week, and several the Christ Child Society. There is more visits to Hispanic parishes for the feast of BOOKKEEPING/CIRCULATION: Kathy Voirol need for clothing and food than ever. Our Lady of Guadalupe. [email protected] It is my hope that every parish will be alert to these Advertising Sales needs. It is not enough just to A heart breaker Tess Steffen (Fort Wayne area) give food or clothing or a food In many ways, it is the most beautiful time of the year. Not Bishop Dwenger had one of (260) 456-2824 basket for Christmas — it must be a gift of the heart. Pope the best football teams in their Jeanette Simon (South Bend area) from the point of view of weather, surely. It seems the sun storied history this year and they (574) 234-0687 Benedict XVI expressed it this way in his remarkable encyclical went to Indianapolis, to the new Web site: www.diocesefwsb.org/TODAY “Deus Caritas Est”: gets shut out of northern Indiana from Thanksgiving to stadium undefeated. They played a stalwart game and lost 10-7. Published weekly except the fourth They have a marvelous coach, Sunday in June, first and third weeks The Christian program — the program of the Good Samaritan, the program of February. But a beautiful season for prayer. and I was honored to be with in July, first week in August and last them before and after at their week in December by the Diocese of Jesus — is “a heart which sees.” This heart sees where love is needed and acts great school for pep rallies. Fort Wayne-South Bend, 1103 S. See you all next week. Calhoun St., P.O. Box 390, Fort Wayne, accordingly. Obviously when charitable IN 46801. Periodicals postage paid at activities carried out by the church as a Fort Wayne, IN, and additional mailing communitarian initiative, the spontaneity of indi- A season of Advent office. viduals must be combined with planning, foresight In many ways, it is the most beautiful Places you can call to help a poor and cooperation with other similar institutions. time of the year. Not from the point of view family at Christmas time: POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: of weather, surely. It seems the sun gets Today’s Catholic, P.O. Box 11169, Fort “Love is free; it is not practiced as a way of achiev- shut out of northern Indiana from South Bend: Wayne, IN 46856-1169 or e-mail: ing other ends.” — “Deus Caritas Est” (30). Thanksgiving to February. But a beautiful Catholic Charities [email protected]. season for prayer. Indeed, every family this Christmas 1817 Miami St. I like the words of St. Charles SUBSCRIPTION RATES: Domestic in should look at some concrete way that they South Bend, IN 46613 Borromeo. He was a great pastor, a bishop advance, one year $20. Bundle rates can reach out to a neighbor in need. At the (574) 234-3111 of Milan, heavenly patron of one of our available on request. Single copy 50¢. end of this column, I have placed some 1-800-686-3112 great parishes, and a key part of something phone numbers for you to call if you wish MAIN OFFICE: we do not hear about a lot; namely, the 915 S. Clinton St., Fort to help. Little Flower Parish Wayne, IN 46802.Telephone (260) Catholic reformation. He wrote a beautiful 54191 N. Ironwood Dr. 456-2824. Fax: (260) 744-1473. pastoral letter to his people one Advent, South Bend, IN 46635-1699 BUREAU OFFICE: 114 W.Wayne St., South and I used the following words in my hom- (574) 272-7070 Bend, IN 46601.Telephone (574) 234- Speaking of the Good Samaritan ily for the first Sunday of Advent. 0687. Fax: (574) 232-8483. Well, we buried Jerry Henry this week. The Mass was at his beloved Precious St. Augustine Parish “The church asks us to understand that Christ, who P.O. Box 3198 News deadline is the Monday morn- Blood Parish in the old neighborhood, and came once in the flesh, is prepared to come again. ing before publication date. the church was packed. South Bend, IN 46619-0198 When we remove all obstacles to his presence, he (574) 234-7082 Advertising deadline is nine days This followed a day when huge crowds, will come, at any hour and moment, to dwell spiri- before publication date. rich and poor, young and old, stood in long tually in our hearts, bringing with him the riches lines down Calhoun Street to console the of his grace.” St. Vincent de Paul LETTERS POLICY: Today’s Catholic wel- family and say a prayer for a special per- of St. Joseph County, Inc. comes original, signed letters about 3408 Ardmore Trail issues affecting church life. Although son. This Sunday, we meet the striking figure His life, for many years, centered around of John the Baptist, calling us to repentance South Bend, IN 46628-1302 we cannot publish every letter we (574) 234-6000 receive, we strive to provide a bal- three places: Precious Blood Church, his and a good life and doing simple things anced representation of expressed office at Catholic Social Services and his well. He is the forerunner, an example for opinions and a variety of reflections home. all those in ministry, as he declares, “I am Fort Wayne: on life in the church.We will choose He died at 2:15 in the morning on the not the one.” He points to the Lamb of letters for publication based on read- feast of Christ the King, and that day and God. This is the spirituality of all those Catholic Charities er interest, timeliness and fairness. everywhere throughout the Catholic involved in God’s work, pointing not to 315 E. Washington Blvd. Readers may agree or disagree with Church, and other Christian churches, the ourselves, but to Christ. Fort Wayne, IN 46802 the letter writers’ opinions. Letters Gospel was of the Good Samaritan, “I was (260) 422-5625 must not exceed 250 words. All let- hungry and you gave me to eat, thirsty and 1-800-686-7459 ters must be signed and include a you gave me to drink, Lord — when did we phone number and address for verifi- Thanksgiving weekend do it to the least of these? ... Whenever you Beautiful, but quiet, and only two pieces St. Mary’s Soup Kitchen cation.We reserve the right to edit 1101 South Lafayette St. did it to one of these, you did it to me.” of mince pie. A Mass of thanksgiving at the letters for legal and other concerns. Fort Wayne, IN 46802-3202 Pope John Paul II used to say there are cathedral, a visit to the dinner at St. Mary’s (260) 426-1217 Mail letters to: Today’s Catholic, no coincidences in life, and this Gospel Soup Kitchen. The crowd was larger than P.O. Box 11169, Fort Wayne, IN surely said what Jerry Henry was all about. ever. A visit to the Knights of Columbus for 46856-1169; or e-mail: their dinner on Reed Road. Mass on St. Vincent de Paul of Allen County, Inc. [email protected] 1600 S. Calhoun St. Saturday morning for Jerry Henry at Most Fort Wayne, IN 46802-5254 Precious Blood Church. Mass in the ISSN 0891-1533 (260) 456-3561 USPS 403630 evening at St. John the Baptist, Fort Wayne, DECEMBER 7, 2008 TODAY’S CATHOLIC 3 Catholics, Lutherans gather for annual Advent vesper service

BY DEB WAGNER prayed, Bishop D’Arcy invited all in the Fort Wayne community, to pray the Lord’s Prayer. Bishop noted the bishop. Stuck then asked those in atten- Bishop D’Arcy also acknowl- FORT WAYNE — Over a dozen dance to offer each other peace. edged that in these difficult eco- clergy and nearly 100 members of Following salutations Bishop nomic times “we are entering a the Lutheran and Catholic faiths Stuck told the congregation that time of want. The Christ in the gathered at St. Matthew Lutheran the meaning of Advent is interre- holy Eucharist is the same Christ Church in Fort Wayne for the sev- lated with three events: the end of of the poor.” He stressed that this enth annual Catholic-Lutheran time, the babe at Bethlehem and prayer service is for forgiveness as Advent Vespers. Bishop James R. something he learned from his par- he pleaded for the congregation to Stuck, bishop of the Indiana- ents growing up, namely to ask follow the recommendations of St. Kentucky Synod, co-presided at Jesus to come into his heart to Charles Borromeo and “root out the service with Bishop John M. stay. the obstacles, such as con- D’Arcy. The theme of the evening He cited Matthew 25:31-46 and sumerism, that forbid Jesus Christ was the continuation of the dia- the parable of the sheep and goats to come in (to our hearts).” logue between the Catholic and saying that the flock is divided at He encouraged those in atten- Lutherans. the end of time with sheep are on dance to give humbly to the poor An adult choir comprised of the right hand of God, goats are on at such places as St. Mary’s Soup members from the local Roman the left. He reassured the faithful Kitchen, that has seen a 30 percent Catholic and Evangelical Lutheran that regardless of the merciful increase in traffic this year, as well Church in America churches, a deeds performed, such as feeding as other organizations that serve cantor and musicians blessed the DEB WAGNER the hungry or clothing the naked the poor and homeless. Catholic and Lutherans gather at St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church in Fort congregation with prelude music that none can do enough to be Bishop D’Arcy reflected on the and hymns of praise and thanks- saved without Christ. truth that Lutherans and Catholics Wayne for the seventh annual ecumenical vespers service on Nov. 30. giving throughout the service. Bishop D’Arcy followed by praise God through singing, the Father Tom Shoemaker, pastor of commenting that Lutherans and readings and worship together. Yet, St. Jude Parish and Rev. Dr. Catholics share the same he said it pains both bishops that Frederick W. Meuter III of St. Lectionary. The bishop spoke of the two denominations cannot history between the two faith tion to recite the Apostle’s Creed John Evangelical Lutheran Church Jerry Henry, former Catholic receive the Eucharist together denominations. “May we be on the together to proclaim common both in Fort Wayne proclaimed the Social Services director, who he since Lutherans and Catholics are side of the sheep and not the goats faith. Following a closing prayer, Psalm prayers. laid to rest the day prior to the ves- not yet in full union. He asked that on the final day,” Bishop D’Arcy both bishops proclaimed a blessing After a series of prayers pers service. Henry was the father prayer be offered for an increase in proclaimed. and the service closed with a remarkably similar to the Catholic of 17 children and lived Matthew’s charity towards others and the The vespers service ended with hymn. A reception followed the Prayers of the Faithful were Gospel through giving to the poor poor to make up for the painful Bishop Stuck asking the congrega- service. Brother who worked with sick is beatified in first Cuban ceremony CAMAGUEY, Cuba (CNS) — the people of Camaguey when Brother Jose Olallo Valdes, a other religious fled the country. He member of the Hospitaller died in 1889. Brothers of St. John of God who In March, Pope Benedict worked among Cuba’s poor and accepted a miracle attributed to the sick in the 19th century, was beati- intercession of Brother Olallo and fied at an outdoor Mass attended approved his beatification, a step by thousands of joyous people and toward sainthood. broadcast nationwide. Father Felix Lizaso Barruete, Cardinal Jose Saraiva Martins, also a member of the Hospitallers former prefect of the Vatican of St. John of God, is postulator of Congregation for Saints’ Causes, Brother Olallo’s sainthood cause. beatified the Cuban brother during “I am very satisfied, happy, a three-hour Mass Nov. 29 in the because truly an important step has Plaza of Our Lady of Charity in been taken,” he told Catholic Camaguey. It was the first beatifi- CNS PHOTO/ENRIQUE DE LA OSA, REUTERS News Service. “Cuba now has a cation ceremony held in Cuba. Catholics clergy walk in a proces- blessed at a time of great privilege In his homily, Cardinal Saraiva sion during the beatification of for the Catholic Church.” Martins said the event was a mile- Brother Jose Olallo Valdes in The miracle attributed to stone and told the people of the Camaguey, Cuba, Nov. 29. Brother Brother Olallo was the recovery of Cuban Catholic Church: “You live Olallo became the second Cuban Daniela Cabrera Ramos from a in a memorable time. Confronted to be beatified, a major step form of lymphoma. by a prevailing materialistic cul- toward sainthood. The 19th-cen- She was diagnosed at age 3 and ture that is imposing and abandons tury member of the Hospitaller was given little hope for survival the side of the weak and helpless, Brothers of St. John of God was due to kidney complications. Her we learn from Blessed Olallo the known for his work with the poor relatives, neighbors and others in CNS PHOTO/GIAMPIERO SPOSITO, REUTERS virtue of knowing how to trust in the Catholic community united in and the sick. Pope Benedict XVI waves after celebrating the vespers service in St. God, of knowing how to love our prayer to Padre Olallo, as he is Peter’s Basilica at the Vatican Nov. 29, the eve of the first Sunday of neighbor in universal form.” known locally, for his intercession reliquary with Brother Olallo’s Advent. All the Cuban bishops, headed on Daniela’s behalf. by Havana Cardinal Jaime Ortega remains to the church, where they Yamila Ramos, the mother of Alamino, were joined by digni- are kept. Daniela, who now is 12, told CNS sincere repentance for one’s taries —including Cuban President Brother Olallo was raised as an that her daughter was in renal fail- errors, concrete acts of charity Raul Castro — in the ceremony at orphan after being abandoned by ure for five days, but that after ADVENT and, especially, humbly and trust- an improvised altar in the plaza. his mother a month after his birth they prayed for intercession, an ingly placing oneself in the hands Cardinal Saraiva Martins Feb. 12, 1820, in Havana. After ultrasound showed no damage and CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 of God, our tender and merciful recalled the words of Pope John joining the Hospitallers as a teen, no cancer. father,” the pope said. Paul II in Camaguey in January he moved to Camaguey, where he Daniela herself is sure she was Visiting the parish community 1998 when he said, “The children worked as a nurse at a charity hos- cured because of the intercession celebrate the birth of Christ by at the Basilica of St. Lawrence of the fertile soil of the Caribbean, pital. He became known locally as of Brother Olallo. making sure they welcome him Outside the Walls, the pope said in their jovial and enterprising the “champion of Christian chari- “I am happy and content, fully into their hearts and lives. the Gospel of the first Sunday of spirit, always arrange to embark on ty” and “father of the poor.” He because Padre Olallo chose me to But, he said, it also is a time Advent urges believers to be grand projects.” also was held in high regard for his make a miracle, and because he is for Christians to set their sights watchful and stay awake. Pilgrims from all Cuban dioce- skill as a surgeon, his knowledge now beatified,” she told CNS. on the end of time and to reform “To watch means to follow the ses participated in the ceremony, of homeopathic medicines and his In an interview with Daniela their lives in a way that shows Lord, to choose that which he has which featured a release of white talent for resolving disputes among posted on the Web site of the they are ready for the Last chosen, to love that which he doves and the ringing of bells in townspeople. Cuban bishops’ conference, she Judgment. loves, to conform one’s life to the nearby Church of St. John of During a period of religious said all she remembers of the time “This requires a correct his,” the pope said. God. At the end of the beatifica- repression by Spanish rulers, detachment from earthly goods, tion, a procession accompanied the Brother Olallo remained among CUBA, PAGE 4 4 TODAY’ S CATHOLIC DECEMBER 7, 2008

dren, as sick as I was, and they CUBA died.” It’s Christmas! Speaking before the beatifica- CONTINUED FROM PAGE 3 tion, she said she planned to ask for a cure for her father, who needs a kidney transplant. ...is his gift in your heart? she was so sick was how often she “I will ask that God put his had to have needles stuck in her hands on all the ill children and veins. that they are healed, since he did it He doesn’t need toys. She and her parents live on a for me and he reigns in peace and street in Camaguey named for love over all the earth,” she said. He makes do with those Brother Olallo, because it is an Jose Lopez Piteira was the first area where he often worked with Cuban to be beatified, in a 2007 he has. What he needs is the neighborhood’s poor. She said ceremony in St. Peter’s Square at that was an unusual coincidence, the Vatican. At age 23 he was comfort; the kind that comes “but these are the ways of God.” among nearly 500 martyrs killed Daniela said she feels like now during the Spanish Civil War of from having a warm home, she has an obligation to give the 1930s. Lopez was an thanks to God for her miracle Augustinian deacon, born in Cuba “because in the hospital waiting to Spanish parents; he returned to food and clothing and the room there were many other chil- Spain as a child. feeling that things are going to be all right. You can be the one to provide that feeling by giving generously to Catholic Charities. To donate online, visit our website http://www.ccfwsb.org and click on GIVE NOW

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BY CINDY WOODEN opens in Baltimore

VATICAN CITY (CNS) — If BALTIMORE (CNS) — Christian faith is not translated Archbishop Edwin F. O’Brien of into love and concrete help for the Baltimore Nov. 20 presided over poor, it is not real faith, Pope the opening of a new phase in the Benedict XVI said. sainthood cause for Father Patrick “Real faith becomes love and Peyton during Mass at the Basilica expresses itself in charity. A faith of the National Shrine of the without charity, without this fruit, Assumption of the Blessed Virgin would not be true faith. It would Mary. be a dead faith,” the pope said Father Peyton is best known as Nov. 26 at his weekly general the “Rosary Priest,” who encour- audience. aged families through his radio The gathering was held in the and television programs in the Vatican audience hall on the first 1940s and ‘50s to pray together day solar panels installed on the daily, especially by praying the roof began generating energy for rosary. the Vatican’s power grid. According to the archdiocese, The audience began with Pope the investigation into the priest’s Benedict entering the hall side by cause for sainthood, which opened side with Armenian Orthodox in June 2001 in the Diocese of Catholicos Aram of Cilicia. Fall River, Mass., was moved The pope told an estimated from that diocese to Baltimore by CNS PHOTO/FAMILY THEATER PRODUCTIONS 9,000 people at the audience that the Vatican. Holy Cross Father Patrick Peyton, the visit of the Lebanon-based Members of the Baltimore patriarch “is a significant occasion ecclesiastical tribunal, which will who is best known as the “Rosary for strengthening the bonds of investigate the life and ministry of Priest,” is pictured in an undated unity already existing between us Father Peyton, were sworn in by photo. Archbishop Edwin F. as we journey toward that full the archbishop during the Mass O’Brien of Baltimore Nov. 20 communion which is both the goal and are to receive instruction from presided over the opening of a set before all Christ’s followers him as to how their inquiry is to new phase in the sainthood cause and a gift to be implored daily take place. for Father Peyton during Mass at from the Lord.” Since 2001, Father Peyton’s the Basilica of the National Shrine Catholicos Aram told the pope writings, documents and unofficial of the Assumption of the Blessed that all Christian churches must testimony have been collected in Virgin Mary. work together to fight “the decay the Fall River Diocese, where the of moral values” and to minister to priest is buried. a world “in dire need of spiritual Father Peyton died in 1992 and had more than 10,000 broadcasts. transformation.” CNS PHOTO/GIAMPIERO SPOSITO, REUTERS is buried in Easton, Mass. North He emigrated from Ireland to In his main talk, Pope Benedict Armenian Catholicos Aram of Cilicia, patriarch of the Armenian Apostolic Easton is the home of Holy Cross the United States in 1928 when he continued a discussion he began Church in Lebanon, stands with Pope Benedict XVI during the pope’s Family Ministries, founded by the was 19. He was ordained to the the week before about St. Paul’s priest, which includes Family priesthood in 1941 and founded weekly general audience in the Paul VI audience hall at the Vatican Nov. teaching on how people are made Rosary, Family Theater Family Rosary in Albany, N.Y., just in the eyes of God and on the 26. Productions, Father Peyton Family the following year. He conducted relationship between faith and Institute, and Family Rosary rosary crusades in 40 countries, good works. whom St. Paul wrote, he said, peace, patience, kindness, generos- International. drawing 28 million people. St. Paul taught clearly that peo- Christians today also can be ity, faithfulness, gentleness and Known for coining the phrases In the church’s process leading ple can do nothing to make them- tempted to think that because they self-control. These are the fruits of “The family that prays together, to canonization, the first step is the selves just in the eyes of God, but are saved by faith alone, they do the spirit that grow from faith,” he stays together” and “A world at declaration of a person’s heroic rather that justification is God’s not have to worry about anything said. prayer is a world at peace,” Father virtues, after which the church gift to those who believe, the pope but their prayers. “Believers know that love for Peyton founded Family Theater gives him or her the title venera- said. “What would we be reducing God becomes concrete in love for Productions in Hollywood in ble. In general, the church must “But this faith is not a thought, the liturgy to if, at the same time one another,” Pope Benedict said. 1947. Through it he produced then confirm two miracles before an opinion or an idea,” he said. as we turned to the Lord, we did “Justified through the gift of more than 600 radio and television sainthood is declared. The first Faith implies communion with not also serve our brothers and sis- faith in Christ we are called to live programs that featured hundreds miracle is needed for beatification Christ and conformity to him, the ters? A faith that does not express in the love of Christ for our neigh- of movie stars and celebrities, and and the second for canonization. pope said. Those who have faith in itself in charity,” the pope said, bors because it is on this criteria Christ strive to act as Christ did. answering his own question. that we will be judged at the end Pope Benedict focused on St. Christianity is not a rulebook, of our existence,” he said. Paul’s First Letter to the he said. “The Christian ethic is not Corinthians, especially the passage born of a system of command- that begins, “If I speak in human ments, but is the consequence of Editor’s Note: The text of the pope’s and angelic tongues but do not our friendship with Christ.” audience remarks in English is have love, I am a resounding gong “The Christian life is nourished posted online at: or a clashing cymbal.” by the action of the Holy Spirit, www.vatican.va/holy_father/bene Our experienced and professional staff is dedicated Like the people of Corinth to which gives rise to love, joy, dict_xvi/audiences to providing the highest quality of nursing care. • Daily Mass • Medicare Certified All Saints • Secured Neighborhoods for Alzheimer Care Religious Goods • Physical, Occupational, & Speech Therapies 3506 South Calhoun Street, Fort Wayne • One and Two Bedroom Assisted Living Apartments 260-456-9173 • Independent Living Patio Homes (across from South Side High School) For Information, Call: (260) 897-2841 •Fontanini Nativities 515 N. Main Street, Avilla, Indiana 46710 •Religious Christmas Cards Provena Health, a Catholic health system, builds communities of healing and hope by compassionately responding to human •Books •Bibles need in the spirit of Jesus Christ. •Rosaries •Statues •Crucifixes Visit us at www.provena.org/sacredheart 6 TODAY’ S CATHOLIC DECEMBER 7, 2008 cial relations between Catholics Catholic Charities USA and Orthodox are growing deeper. warns against fraudulent “I give thanks to God that he has enabled us to deepen the bonds of e-mails on Internet mutual love between us, support- ed by prayer and ever more regu- WASHINGTON (CNS) — EWS RIEFS lar fraternal contact,” the pope Catholic Charities USA officials N B said in a message to the Istanbul- have demanded that groups using based spiritual leader of the the Catholic Charities name to world’s Orthodox believers. solicit funds on the Internet dis- PEOPLE ATTEND PRAYER SERVICE IN TIJUANA, MEXICO Cardinal Walter Kasper, president continue using the trademark and of the Pontifical Council for urged potential donors to research Promoting Christian Unity, deliv- the authenticity of an organization ered the message to the patriarch before making a contribution. during ceremonies marking the “Fraudulent e-mails that are mis- Nov. 30 feast of St. Andrew, the appropriating the name of patron saint of the Patriarchate of Catholic Charities USA and its Constantinople. In his message, affiliates are being sent to extract the pope said he had been “blessed money and/or personal informa- three times” in 2008 with personal tion from unsuspecting recipients visits by Patriarch Bartholomew: and are circulating on the in March, in June for the opening Internet,” said Brandon Pinney, of the Pauline year, and in spokesman for Catholic Charities October, when the patriarch USA. The e-mails are labeled with addressed the world Synod of the subject titles “Grant Bishops on the word of God. Notification,” “The Catholic Charity,” “The Catholic Charity Foundation” and “From the Office Iraqi archbishop: U.S. of the Cash Grant Program,” Pinney told Catholic News pact is step forward, but Service Dec. 1. The name instability remains “Catholic Charities” was used within the body of some of the e- VATICAN CITY (CNS) — The mails, said Candy S. Hill, senior Iraqi parliament’s approval of a vice president for social policy timetable for U.S. troop withdraw- and government affairs at Catholic al represents “a step forward,” but Charities USA. The messages — the country still faces deep divi- which come from several different sions and serious risks, an Iraqi e-mail addresses and provide a archbishop said. “Iraq is still pro- variety of contact names — ask foundly divided within itself,” recipients for detailed personal Chaldean Archbishop Louis Sako information, Pinney said. In an CNS PHOTO/DAVID MAUNG of Kirkuk told the Rome-based effort to stop the e-mails, Father Lidia Duarte and Patricia Gallegos pray during a Nov. 26 prayer service held in response agency AsiaNews Nov. 28. “One Larry Snyder, Catholic Charities cannot speak of national unity, and USA president, replied Nov. 26 to to rising crime and violence in Tijuana, Mexico. About 2,500 people attended the service even the government recognizes each of the addresses brought to in a sports stadium. this. Everyone is trying to gain the organization’s attention, insist- greater influence in his own terri- ing the sender stop disseminating tory, and even the capital, such confusing messages or suffer 2007, and is one of 26 active among people of all religions and Baghdad, which should represent consequences. Hispanic Catholic bishops in the “spread peace, harmony and Nuncio warns: Without the symbol of unity, is in reality United States. A coadjutor auto- brotherhood in the city.” Bishop ethics, financial crisis subdivided into sectors controlled Tentative plans matically becomes the head of the Penha is currently in charge of the by very specific factions,” diocese upon the retirement or archdiocese while Mumbai could be a catastrophe, Archbishop Sako said. He made death of its bishop. The announce- Cardinal Oswald Gracias recuper- the comments the day after Iraq’s confirmed for papal visit VATICAN CITY (CNS) — A ment was made in Washington ates from cancer surgery. “The parliament voted to approve a leading Vatican diplomat warned to Holy Land in 2009 Nov. 29 by Archbishop Pietro unprecedented ferocity of the ter- security pact that requires U.S. that the current financial crisis Sambi, apostolic nuncio to the ror attack” shocked local church forces to withdraw from Iraq no VATICAN CITY (CNS) — The could become a catastrophe unless United States. At the end of a two- leaders, Bishop Penha admitted. later than the end of 2011. Under Vatican has confirmed tentative solutions are found that respect hour Mass of thanksgiving Nov. He said he had talked to Cardinal the pact, the United States would plans for Pope Benedict XVI to ethics and involve all levels of 30, which drew more than 1,200 Gracias about the Catholic Church remove combat forces from Iraqi visit the Holy Land in 2009. society. “It is necessary to recover people to the Cathedral of the taking more “responsibility” to do cities and villages by the end of Israeli sources said the most likely some basic aspects of finances, Blessed Sacrament in Sacramento, “something solid in Mumbai.” June 2009. time for the visit would be in May, such as the primacy of labor over Bishop Weigand handed his with stops in Israel and the capital, of human relationships crosier to Bishop Soto, 52, whose Palestinian territories. The pope over purely financial transactions, episcopal motto is “Gozo y Pope condemns terrorist Vatican official warns of was invited to visit Israel by and of ethics over the sole criteri- Esperanza (“Joy and Hope”). In Israeli President Shimon Peres in attacks in India, prays for on of efficiency,” Archbishop increasing food insecurity his homily, Bishop Weigand told 2007. At that time, the pope made Celestino Migliore, the Vatican’s the congregation it had been “an victims VATICAN CITY (CNS) — A it clear he hoped to make the trip, apostolic nuncio to the United honor and a privilege” to be their Vatican representative warned of but Vatican diplomats said the Nations, told Vatican Radio Nov. bishop. He told his successor: VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Pope increasing food insecurity in the timing would depend in large part 28. “For some time we’ve found “You are inheriting a very special Benedict XVI condemned the world and called for a greater on efforts to calm the simmering ourselves in the middle of a finan- flock.” Bishop Soto was sched- wave of terrorist attacks in India global commitment to long-term Israeli-Palestinian conflict. In cial crisis that could become a uled to celebrate two Masses at as acts of “cruel and senseless vio- agricultural improvement. Msgr. recent months, Israeli and Vatican catastrophe if its effects are the cathedral Dec. 7, one in lence,” and led prayers for the Renato Volante made the remarks officials began making more con- allowed to impact other crises: in English and one in Spanish, to cel- nearly 200 people who died and in an address Nov. 27 to the 35th crete plans for a papal visit. The economics, food and energy,” he ebrate his succession. the hundreds injured in the blood- special session of the U.N. Food contacts were first reported Nov. shed. A Vatican spokesman, mean- said. Archbishop Migliore made and Agriculture Organization in 27 by the Israeli newspaper while, warned that if extremists the remarks on the eve of the Rome. The FAO was discussing Ha’aretz and were confirmed by Mumbai bishop urges continue to exploit the ethnic and U.N.-sponsored International reform of its own structures to bet- the Israeli Embassy to the Holy religious tensions of southern Asia Conference on Financing for ter respond to food crises around See. Ha’aretz said the most likely Indians to forgive, unite the results could be even more Development Nov. 29-Dec. 2 in the globe. Msgr. Volante said the time frame for the trip was the after attacks tragic. Speaking at his noon bless- Doha, Qatar. The archbishop led a FAO should underline the essen- second week in May. ing Nov. 30, the pope asked for Vatican delegation to the confer- tial importance of agriculture in MUMBAI, India (CNS) — A prayers for the victims of the ence. development, and not merely pro- Bishop Weigand retires; Mumbai church leader urged attacks in Mumbai, the Indian mote short-term management of Catholics and people of all reli- financial capital, where suspected food resources. “Too often strate- Bishop Soto succeeds gions to forgive and unite after the Islamic militants assaulted at least Pope gives thanks for gies are adopted which pursue terrorist attacks in Mumbai. 10 targets in a three-day siege that improved Catholic- particular goals rather then a him in Sacramento Auxiliary Bishop Bosco Penha of began Nov. 26. The pope also holistic vision which ranks the WASHINGTON (CNS) — Pope Mumbai told the Asian church expressed concern for the clashes Orthodox relations human needs first. Such an atti- news agency UCA News Nov. 27 between rival ethnic and religious Benedict XVI has accepted the VATICAN CITY (CNS) — After tude produces negative effects in that the church condemned “this groups in Jos, Nigeria, where at resignation of Bishop William K. meeting three times in one year the rural sector, especially where dastardly act of terrorism.” All least 200 people were killed Nov. Weigand of Sacramento, Calif. He with Ecumenical Orthodox poverty, underdevelopment, mal- Catholics, he said, should “go on 28-29. Churches and mosques will be succeeded by Bishop Patriarch Bartholomew of nutrition and environmental their knees to pray and get were burned in the rioting. Jaime Soto, who has been coadju- Constantinople, Pope Benedict degradation are more evident,” he involved in building bridges” tor of the diocese since Oct. 11, XVI said it was obvious that offi- said. DECEMBER 7, 2008 TODAY’ S CATHOLIC 7

included in this year’s Twelve Bishop Dwenger hosts Days’ efforts: A Christmas craft Fair Trade Sale show and an adopt-a-family pro- gram. The craft show, which is FORT WAYNE — The Bishop open to the public, will feature the Dwenger High School Social original works of over 35 local arti- Justice Club will be sponsoring a AROUND THE DIOCESE sans. It will be held on Dec. 12 Fair Trade Sale 7:30-8 a.m., from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. in 10:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. and 3- Reignbeaux Lounge in LeMans 3:30 p.m. on Dec. 8-12, near the Hall. The craft show is a way for main office. SEMINARIAN EICHMAN ORDAINED TO MINOR ORDERS the local community to support Gifts, housewares, jewelry and both local artisans and families in other products handmade by arti- need. Money raised will go to the sans living in developing regions Twelve Days’ program to purchase around the world will be available food and clothing for families and for purchase. All proceeds will individuals. benefit Catholic Relief Services. This year, for the adopt-a-family The club will also be sponsor- part of the program, the college is ing a 24-hour food fast in support supporting 15 families and 15 indi- of Catholic Relief Services begin- viduals. The families come through ning after breakfast on Dec. 8. For the Salvation Army, Grandparents more information about the Fair as Parents (GAP) and the partner Trade Sale, sponsor a food fast Title 1 Schools in South Bend participant or participate in the where Saint Mary’s students tutor fast, contact Melissa Wheeler at children. The individuals receiving (260) 496-4700 or e-mail gifts come through REAL Services [email protected]. and Mental Health America. Crèches on display at Holy Cross School helps Archabbey Library others ST. MEINRAD — An exhibit of SOUTH BEND — For the past two Christmas crèches from around weeks, students at Holy Cross the world will be on display in the School worked to break a school St. Meinrad Archabbey Library, record to help those less fortunate. from Dec. 3 through Jan. 10. The school held the annual The display contains crèches Thanksgiving food drive to assist from the monastery collection, as the St. Vincent de Paul Food Pantry. well as from the Catherine A. The previous record was 3,000 Smith Nativity Collection, which PROVIDED BY BRIAN EICHMAN items. The drive ended Nov. 25 was donated to St. Meinrad in And for the past several weeks, 2002 in memory of Charles Priestly Fraternity of St. Peter seminarian Gregory Eichman, front, was ordained to the the early childhood classes — pre- Patrick Smith. minor orders of exorcist and acolyte by Bishop Salvatore Joseph Cordileone, auxiliary school, pre-K and kindergarten — Smith began collecting nativity have been collecting items for sets in 1971, purchasing many bishop of San Diego, at the St. Francis of Assisi Chapel in Lincoln, Neb. on Nov. 15. A Operation Christmas Child. The during her extensive travels Solemn Pontifical Mass was offered in the extraordinary form according to the rite of the children collected items such as throughout the world. She donated soap, toothpaste, combs, brushes, the collection to St. Meinrad in 1962 Roman Missal. Eichman is a seminarian at Our Lady of Guadalupe Seminary. He is school supplies and toys for chil- memory of her brother, who stud- a member of the St. Mother Theodore Guerin Latin Mass Community at Sacred Heart dren in need around the world. The ied for the priesthood at St. classes collected enough items to Meinrad and later served as a Church where the extraordinary form of the Mass is offered daily. fill 12 shoeboxes. Each child who priest in the Archdiocese of receives a shoebox also receives the Indianapolis. story of Jesus in their own lan- The exhibit is free and open to St. Hyacinth and Precious Blood to is married to Henry’s brother, says room instruction that implements guage. the public. Exhibit hours are: Central Catholic High School and of the contribution, “The Henry’s the curriculum designed during Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. credits their faith-filled parents for have been such supporters of the previous year. In the third and 1-5 p.m.; Saturday, 9-11 a.m. their education. Catholic education. They donated year, the emphasis is on assessing Ecumenical service and 1-5 p.m.; and Sunday, 1-5 Subsequently, all five of their in honor of their own parents. I am students’ learning and growth. planned at St. Adalbert p.m. children are alumni of Bishop thrilled and grateful to Becky and The Alliance for Catholic From Dec. 6-10, the library Luers High School and have attend- Jerry for helping Luers.” — K.C. Education program was founded SOUTH BEND — An Advent will have evening hours from 7-10 ed Catholic universities as well. in 1994 to address the urgent need Ecumenical Prayer Service is p.m. From Jan. 6-10, evening Henry says, noting the excellent ACE receives grant for for effective Catholic school planned at St. Adalbert Church to hours are 7-9 p.m. The library will college preparation her children teachers and places nearly 200 bring together the South Bend area be closed the morning of Dec. 8 received at Luers, “Luers has many Curriculum, Instruction young men and women annually Christian community in a prayerful and all day Dec. 24-28 and Dec. areas to be very proud of, but their and Assessment initiative as full-time teachers in under- response to the recent increase in 31 through Jan. 4. All times are academics has always been won- served Catholic schools through- violence in the area. Titled Central time. derful,” she says. NOTRE DAME — The Alliance out the country. ACE participants “Preparing for the Prince of Peace During her tenure, Henry, who for Catholic Education (ACE) earn master’s degrees in education in a Violent Community: 2008,” Keefer-Henry family worked at Bishop Luers as director program at the University of Notre from Notre Dame during the this prayer service is modeled on an of development and fundraising Dame has been awarded a course of their two-year teaching Advent prayer service held in 2006 sponsors scholarship from 1994 to 2006, was “touched $436,500 grant from the Louis commitment. to an overflow crowd. by the family commitment to the Calder Foundation to support its ACE also established a princi- This year’s event will be on Dec. FORT WAYNE — This year school and Catholic education.” As Curriculum, Instruction and pal preparation program, the ACE 7, the second Sunday of Advent, in Bishop Luers High School will she worked with then-principal Assessment (CI&A) initiative, a Leadership Program, in 2001 to St. Adalbert Church, at the corner again offer the tuition assistance Norm Glisman, who recognized the professional development model form the next generation of lay of Olive and West Huron streets. scholarship to 10 incoming fresh- need for tuition support for stu- for teachers and principals in Catholic school principals. Beginning at 4 p.m., the prayer man who score well on the scholar- dents, together they worked to offer Catholic schools. More information on these and service will draw together many ship placement exam. However, the scholarship to incoming fresh- This partnership with the other ACE programs are available Christian groups from the South thanks to the generosity of a local man for the past 14 years. Calder Foundation and the pio- on the Web at http://ace.nd.edu. Bend area. Besides the Catholic family the amount awarded will be The Henry family, who has long neering Web-based curriculum church, other participants include doubled. been involved with Bishop Luers program Curriki represents a the United Methodist, the United Originally $5,000 was divided Twelve Days of Christmas fundraisers such as Luers Knight, milestone for ACE in its efforts to Church of Christ, the First Church and awarded each year to 10 stu- Adopt a Knight, Student foster academic excellence in Project helps needy of Christ Scientist, Harvest dents who achieved the top exam Ambassadors and the Alumni Catholic education. Ministries, the Mennonite Church, scores. But this year, due to the NOTRE DAME — The Office for Association, have committed to ACE has structured its CI&A the Church of the Brethren, the commitment to Catholic education Civic and Social Engagement sponsoring the scholarship fund for initiative so schools and teachers Episcopal Church, the Disciples of of the Keefer-Henry family, the (OCSE) at Saint Mary’s College is the next five years. are meeting required accreditation Christ as well as Moma’s Against fund has doubled and will now coordinating its fifth annual Twelve “We all want what’s best for the standards through their participa- Violence, New Generations Sign divide $10,000. Days of Christmas Project, Dec. 1- kids. Everyone deserves to have a tion. Workshops are spread over a Choir, and the United Religious This merit-based scholarship is 12. Students, faculty and staff will Luers education,” offers Henry, period of three years, giving par- Communities. A free will offering a way to honor the academic excel- participate in special events, service adding, “We’re privileged and ticipants time to engage with ideas will be collected to support the lence of the school, says scholar- projects and fundraisers, which will blessed. The Lord has been good to and concepts, while respecting Gun Buy Back Program. ship benefactor Becky Keefer- provide food, clothing and gifts to us and we want to share it with oth- demanding schedules and respon- Bishop John M. D’Arcy will be Henry. Henry and her husband, Michiana families in need this ers.” sibilities. The first year focuses on present and offer the closing Jerry, are proud of their Catholic Christmas season. Current Bishop Luers High curriculum development and the prayer. A reception will follow the academic heritage, spanning from Two unique opportunities are School Principal Mary Keefer, who second year emphasizes class- program and parking is available. 8 FINANCE DECEMBER 7, 2008 What can I give ... give from the heart

BY ELISA M. SMITH, CPA/PFS made to charity on or before Dec. real estate such as your home, a surrender value on the policy, you ly a fixed percentage of the fair 31 of the year in which the gift is vacation property or farm that has receive an income tax deduction market value of the assets in the made qualifies as a charitable tax appreciated in value over the equal to the cash value at the time trust. The payout will vary from “What can I give Him, deduction in that year. Here are years. If you decide to sell that of the gift. year to year, depending on the Poor as I am? some ideas for end-of-year charita- vacation home or 40-acre farm, Life income gifts. A life income value of the assets. With an annu- If I were a shepherd, ble giving. you may realize capital gains on gift allows you to make a gift now, ity trust, the beneficiary(s) receive I would bring a lamb; Gifts of cash. The easiest gift to the appreciation. Instead of selling receive a cash payout for life or for a fixed amount from the trust each If I were a wise man, make is a gift of cash. If you item- the property and incurring a capital a term of years, and receive a char- year that is agreed upon when cre- I would do my part; ize, cash gifts are deductible for gains tax, you can avoid the tax itable income tax deduction on the ating the trust. At the end of the Yet what can I give him - federal income tax purposes up to and gift the property outright to remainder interest of the gift. term of the trust or at the death of Give my heart.” 50 percent of adjusted gross charity and receive a charitable One type of life income gift is a the beneficiary, the balance of the — Christina G. Rossetti income. If your gifts exceed this income tax deduction for the fair charitable gift annuity, whereby trust transfers to the charity. limit, you may carry the excess market value of the real estate. you exchange cash, stock or real Bequests. While you are consid- ift-giving at the Christmas forward for up to five additional Another option is to retain a life estate for a fixed cash payout for ering current year end gifts to season is passed down to us years. Make sure the check is estate and gift the remainder inter- life. The payout amount is based charity, this may also be a time to Gfrom the Magi who pre- delivered or postmarked by Dec. est to charity. This means that you on your age. Therefore, you estab- create or update your last will and sented gifts in Bethlehem to cele- 31 in order to take the deduction in retain the right to live in or use the lish a charitable gift annuity with testament. As you plan your estate brate the birth of the newborn the current year. property during your lifetime and the Catholic Community and contemplate passing along Savior, Jesus Christ. In today’s Gifts of stock. By making a gift at your death, the charity receives Foundation of Northeast Indiana your assets to loved ones, ask society, giving at Christmas too of long-term appreciated stock to the real estate. You can take a cur- for the benefit of your parish, yourself, “Does my will include often focuses on the material and charity, you receive a win-win sit- rent charitable income tax deduc- school or diocesan agency. The my gift to God?” Please consider a can sometimes overlook the true uation. First of all, you avoid pay- tion for the gift of the present organization invests your gift and charitable bequest in your will for Christian tradition of giving. ing capital gains tax on the appre- value of the remainder interest. pays you a fixed payout for life. At your parish, school or other dioce- However, among our gift giving at ciation of the stock. Moreover, you Gift of life insurance. Do you your death, the balance of the san agency. What can you give Christmas should be gifts to receive an income tax deduction have a life insurance policy that is charitable gift annuity transfers to him? ... Give from your heart. beloved charities, and Catholics for the fair market value of the no longer needed? To receive a the parish, school or diocesan should be encouraged to list their stock on the date of the gift. If you charitable deduction, name the agency that you indicated at the parish or school on their itemize, your noncash gift is charity as both the owner and ben- time of the gift. The Diocese of Fort Wayne-South “Christmas gift list” much like deductible for federal income tax eficiary of the policy. Any premi- Another type of life income gift Bend does not provide advice on family, friends, loved ones and purposes up to 30 percent of um payments that you make on the is a charitable unitrust or charitable tax or legal matters. As you con- business associates would be. adjusted gross income with the policy can be treated as a charita- annuity trust. With a unitrust, the template these important issues, Time is ticking away on the additional five-year carry forward. ble income tax deduction by you beneficiary(s) (you, your spouse or we suggest that you consult with current tax year, and any gifts Gifts of real estate. You may own each year. And if there is a cash your children) can receive annual- your professional advisor.

Going more green and less red Organizing our lives for during the Christmas season the journey ahead sharing plan, or even a life rather than every member of the extra trip to the post office. BY ELISA M. SMITH, CPA/PFS BY ELISA M. SMITH, CPA/PFS insurance policy, that former family. This could be a religious Try giving a magazine subscription. spouse may still be eligible to DVD movie or a tin of popcorn. A gift that keeps on giving, a mag- As you think “Ah, another year receive these assets at your hat comes to your mind You are not only saving money on azine subscription will bring hap- older” and reflect on the death since they will pass out- when you think of the gifts but saving time shopping for piness to the recipient all year long changes in your life during the side of your estate and are not Wholiday season? Family them. with each issue received. There is past 12 months whether it be a covered by your will. gatherings, midnight Mass, Send a Christmas e-card. You can a magazine available for every health situation, a family situa- Business succession plan. Do Christmas carols, cookies and save money on Christmas cards and interest you could imagine, and tion or a financial situation, it you own a business? If so, then other goodies ... and the crazy postage by sending e-cards to your they are inexpensive as most are may be time to organize your a business succession plan may shopping frenzy! It’s the season of family, friends and business associ- under $15 for a one-year subscrip- life for the journey ahead. be important to the continuation giving and the season of spending, ates. Many e-cards include anima- tion. Last Will and Testament. If you of the business. Leaving your whereby if you don’t have a tion, music and even puzzles and Contribute to a 529 college savings do not have a will, you should. business to your estate or your spending plan for the holidays, you games which make them fun. You plan. Your child, grandchild, niece A will is one of the most impor- children may not be the best could end up in increasing debt can find religious e-cards as well. or nephew will appreciate in years tant documents you can ever solution. Perhaps your children with too little green and deep in You can include a personalized to come a gift toward their future. have. It transfers property you are not interested in having the the red. message on them and the best part By investing in a state-sponsored own in your name to the person business. Or if only one or two Here are some practical tips to is that you won’t have to worry that 529 plan, you can establish an or charity that you wish to have children are interested in carry- keep you on the path of being they didn’t arrive at their destina- account for a student with the pur- it. A will also typically names ing on the business, you will debt-free this holiday season while tion on time. Free e-cards can be pose of paying their qualified col- someone you select to be your need to balance their interests still retaining that joyful Christmas found at hallmark.com and lege expenses. Your investment personal representative to pay with your other children. spirit. 123greetings.com. grows tax-free and distributions to all final expenses and carry out Durable power of attorney for Create a spending plan. Financial Be creative and make your gifts. pay for the student’s college costs your instructions and names a property. If you were to become planning is important during the The best gifts come from the heart come out federally tax-free. In guardian if you have minor chil- physically or mentally incapaci- holiday season, so make a budget and require thought and time. addition, you, as the donor, may dren. tated, who would look over for your Christmas shopping. Take Gather up some photographs from receive some special state income You may already have one. your matters? A durable power into account how much you your trips, family reunions, week- tax deductions or credits. If so, you may wish to review of attorney for property appoints already owe and then determine end get-a-aways during the year Give to charity in the recipient’s the document with your attor- a person whom you designate to how much you can reasonably and make a calendar for the new name. What do you give the person ney to see if it reflects your cur- act for you and handle financial afford to spend. Then decide how year. Give coupons for free who has everything? A gift to their rent life situation. Ask yourself: matters should you be unable or much to spend on each individual babysitting, an afternoon or favorite charity made in their Are the personal representatives perhaps unavailable to do so. rather than the other way around. evening at the $1 movie theater, or honor. You can give a donation to I named still alive and well? Are Durable power of attorney for Set a deadline for paying off your a home-cooked meal. Bake a grandpa and grandma’s parish in my beneficiaries still living? health care. In addition to your holiday debts. November and warm batch of Christmas cookies their name or set up a scholarship Have I remembered my beloved property, you must look after December are popular months for or record yourself reading a fund for their beloved Catholic parish and school in my will? your person. A durable power of credit cards. Creditors often offer favorite bedtime story for a niece school in their honor through the Beneficiary designations. Have attorney for health care appoints excessive lines of credit; with this or nephew who lives across the Catholic Community Foundation you recently lost a spouse a person whom you designate to comes very high interest rates. miles. Your personal touch and of Northeast Indiana. Design an through divorce? Although your make decisions regarding your Also, if you charge $1,000 this thoughtfulness will be appreciated. inexpensive plaque or framed cer- divorced spouse may no longer health care treatment in the holiday season, and make only the Shop online. What better way to tificate that they can hang on a be a beneficiary under your will, event that you are unable to pro- minimum payment, it could take save time and money on gas than wall reminding them daily of the he/she could be a beneficiary vide informed consent. This can over 10 years to pay off the debt to shop online. Plus you can avoid legacy gift made in their honor. It under your life insurance or mean decisions involving sim- and perhaps cost twice as much as the craziness in the crowded malls can help you and your children go retirement plan. If your former ple issues such as where you the original price. and parking lots. Many retailers green and find the real meaning of spouse continues to be named as live or more emotional issues Don’t give so many gifts. It is offer free shipping for purchases the holiday season. beneficiary on your individual such as whether to stay on life okay to exercise some gift-giving over a specific dollar amount. You retirement account, your 401(k) support. restraint. Perhaps you could buy a can have the items shipped directly plan, 403(b) account or profit gift for the entire family to enjoy to the gift recipient to avoid an DECEMBER 7, 2007 FINANCE 9 Making a list and checking it twice Year-end financial planning reminders

BY ELISA M. SMITH, CPA/PFS have plenty of room to contribute, to be made by Dec. 31 to qualify ing the capital gains tax associated would have gone to the IRS in contact the personnel department for a tax credit. If you need to do with selling the stock. It can also April 2009 to earn interest for a to see if it is possible to make a some home improvements, incor- be a good time to do a pre-new year. If, instead, you believe that ‘Tis the season to be jolly ... for one-time contribution toward your porating some of these energy effi- year’s cleanup around the house your tax rate will increase next last minute tax saving strategies. account. At the same time, adjust cient systems into your home and donate any items you no year, you may wish to accelerate There’s still time to take advantage your monthly contributions to before the end of the year will help longer need to such charities as St. the payment. of ways to save money on 2008 make sure you take full advantage reduce your taxes and, even better, Vincent de Paul for the tax deduc- Underperforming stocks: Review taxes and to get in the practice of of this retirement vehicle next year. lower your energy bills in the tion. your stock portfolio and determine good habits for the coming year Health care: If your health insur- future. IRA Charitable Rollover: If you are if there are any losing stocks that and beyond. Here are some sug- ance plan has an annual deductible Charitable contributions: If you age 70-1/2 or older and own a tra- need to be sold because you gestions as you prepare your own that you have already reached, will be itemizing your taxes for ditional or Roth IRA, you can believe they are not going to year-end financial planning check- consider whether it’s possible to 2008, it’s a good time to make transfer up to $100,000 in 2008 rebound. If so, you can use these list. receive any medical treatment you charitable contributions to your and in 2009 to a public charity losses to offset taxable gains from Flexible spending accounts: If you may need before the beginning of parish or school for a tax write-off. without the distribution being sub- other investments. In addition, you participate in your company’s flex- the New Year. On the same note, if When making these contributions, ject to income tax. can also use up to $3,000 of these ible spending account programs you have not reached your annual think beyond cash. If you have Prepay any deductible expenses: losses to reduce your taxable ordi- for medical expenses or dependent deductible, it may be wise to delay stock that has appreciated in value, You may be able to accelerate pay- nary income for 2008. If you have care, check to see if you have a medical treatment you may have the appreciated stock may be a ments that you were planning to a loss in excess of that amount, remaining balance in the account planned until after Dec. 31. If you wiser choice to donate since you make next year by paying them you can carry it over to future tax and make sure you spend this itemize your taxes, you can will receive before the end of this year. One years. money. While flexible spending also deduct medical a tax such example is to prepay your Make 529 plan contributions: If accounts have the excellent tax expenses, but it has mortgage payment for the month you have set up 529 college saving advantage of letting you pay for to be greater than of January. By paying it in plans for your children or grand- these expenses with pretax dollars, 7.5 percent of December, you will have made 13 children, contributions need to be any money that is not used by the adjusted payments this year, thereby made by Dec. 31 to qualify toward end of the year will be forfeited, gross income increasing your mortgage deduc- this year. This can be important, which can easily negate these to qualify. tion. This can be beneficial if you since 529 contributions are subject advantages. For example, if you Keep this in anticipate being in the same or to the annual gift tax exclusion of still have money in your flexible mind when lower tax bracket next year. In $12,000 per individual for 2008. medical account, it would be better deciding addition, you can prepay your Take a minimum distribution from to find items that you can purchase whether it is property taxes as well to increase your IRA account: If you are age 70- — such as over-the-counter drugs better to get your deductions. 1/2 or older, you will need to take — rather than lose the money. treatment Year-end bonus: If you will a minimum distribution from your Max out your 401(k): If your before or receive a bonus this year, take the IRA account by Dec. 31. Please employer offers a 401(k) plan in after New time to estimate whether it will consult with your financial advisor which you participate, check to see Year’s Day. be better to receive that or tax accountant regarding the how much you have contributed Go green money this year or next year amount you must withdraw to ful- for the year. The maximum 401(k) at home: for tax purposes. If you fill the required minimum distribu- plan contribution limit for 2008 is There are a anticipate that your tax rate tion. $15,500 if you are under age 50, number of will stay the same, see if it with an additional catch-up contri- environmentally is possible for your employ- bution amount of $5,000 if you are friendly upgrades er to delay payment until The Diocese of Fort Wayne-South over age 50. If your employer that you can make to after Dec. 31. While you Bend does not provide advice on matches up to a certain percentage, your home, including will still have to pay taxes on tax or legal matters. As you con- make sure that you have at least installing energy efficient win- deduction this income, by receiving it in template these important issues, contributed enough to receive dows, doors, roofing, insulation, for the market January you delay these taxes for a we suggest that you consult with these matching funds. If you still water heaters and more, that need value of the stock and avoid pay- year, which allows the money that your professional advisor. Catholic Community Foundation of Northeast Indiana recognized in top 10 YEAR END TAX TIPS CHICAGO — The International 4. Rockford, Ill. Catholic Stewardship Council 5. Columbus, Ohio Have you taken full advantage of your employee retirement plan? (ICSC) Planned Giving 6. Sioux Falls, S.D. Committee conducted a survey in 7. Kansas City, Kans. the summer of 2008 to discern 8. Baltimore, Md. 2008 Federal Limits for Retirement Accounts which foundations and diocesan 9. Grand Rapids, Mich. planned giving offices have the 10. Santa Fe, N.M. Account Contribution Limit Catch-up Contribution — Age 50+ “best practices” in several areas of • Thirty-three arch/dioceses 401(k), 403(b) and 457 $15,500 $5,000 work. Data was collected from 59 reported that their foundations participating dioceses and archdio- held endowment funds. Top five SIMPLE IRA $10,500 $2,500 ceses around the country, includ- foundations, endowment funds by ing the Diocese of Fort Wayne- Mass market value: South Bend. Of these arch/dioce- 1. Columbus, Ohio Qualified Retirement 20% of net self-employment None ses, 48 have foundations. Results 2. Brooklyn, N.Y. Plans/Keogh and SEP-IRA income (or 25% of compensation), were announced Oct. 11-12, at the 3. Metuchen, N.J. up to $45,000 ICSC 2008 Seminar for Catholic 4. Fort Wayne-South Bend Foundations held in Chicago, Ill. 5. Santa Fe, N.M. Individual 401(k) 20% of net self-employment $5,000 • Total assets under Mass man- income (or 25% of compensation) agement in foundations — $914 Note: The Catholic Community plus $15,500, up to $46,000 million. Top 10 foundations: Foundation of Northeast Indiana 1. Columbus, Ohio was created in 1995 by Bishop 2. Cleveland, Ohio D’Arcy for individuals to finan- Traditional IRA and Roth IRA $5,000 $1,000 3. Rockford, Ill. cially support the spiritual, educa- 4. Providence, R.I. tional and charitable needs of the 5. Sioux Falls, S.D. Catholic community in northeast For more information, 6. Phoenix, Ariz. Indiana through endowment funds, contact Todd E. Haines, CPA, JD or Elisa M. Smith, CPA/PFS 7. Boston, Mass. charitable gift annuities and unre- 8. Fort Wayne-South Bend stricted funds. The foundation 9. Santa Fe, N.M. administers approximately 100 10. Kansas City, Kans. endowment funds for parishes, • Total gifts closed in the last schools and other agencies and the five years within foundations — endowments established through $391 million. Top 10 foundations, the Legacy of Faith campaign. As 4630-8 West Jefferson Blvd. Fort Wayne, IN 46804 new deposits: of June 30, 2008, assets in the Phone: (260) 436-9500 1. Cleveland, Ohio Catholic Community Foundation 2. Providence, R.I. were valued at approximately $44 Web site: www.hainescpa.com 3. Fort Wayne-South Bend million. —ES 10 TODAY’ S CATHOLIC DECEMBER 7, 2008

EDITORIAL Parishes can help individuals equip their COMMENTARY finances according to TODAY’S CATHOLIC welcomes letters from readers. All letters must be 250 words or less, signed and include a phone number and address for verification. Today’s Catholic reserves the right to edit for clarity and length. Address letters to: Today’s Catholic • P.O. Box 11169 the Catholic faith • Fort Wayne, IN • 46856-1169 or e-mail to: [email protected] imes are tough economically, and they could get worse instruction. can’t imagine a better way to Tbefore they get better. But in some parishes across the Encourages What about our great teach- show Jesus that you love your Diocese of Fort Wayne-South Bend, one may only have to look committee to visit ers who have chosen to sacri- neighbor than to do everything to joining a small group study called “7 Steps to Becoming fice and teach in the private you can to make your parish a Financially Free” to help cope with the financial difficulties and Closing 132-year-old grade sector? Certainly some will be “cardinal parish” this new year. gain a new perspective on being a good steward of our money. school — St. Aloysius and offered jobs in our system, but Patrick S. Hirzel Many readers may be familiar with Crown Ministries or merging with St. Therese: this not all will be due to the limited Battle Creek, Mich. Dave Ramsey’s Financial Peace University — programs that sounds simple, but think about positions available. help their church members become debt free. Some Catholic it. Transportation would be a One of the goals of our Field guide parishes have utilized these fine programs. What makes 7 Steps real problem. No bus service schools is to educate and pre- to Becoming Financially Free is that it is created by Phil would be available and a pri- pare our children for life in all maintains ecology Lenahan of Veritas Financial Ministries, a Catholic accountant vate school bus would be pro- facets. Those goals are being balance who works with financial planning, and these parish kits are hibitive in cost. met academically with achieve- assembled and published by Our Sunday Visitor in Huntington. Parents of school children ments in ISTEP, and also daily I totally support Pope The goal is not just financial, it helps those participating transferred to St. Therese would on a spiritual basis. From that Benedict XVI’s stance on become stewards of Providence. lose interest in St. Aloysius and point our schools are a resound- “Ecology of Peace.” He Here are some startling facts that Lenahan writes in the attendance would go down, ing success, and a great source believes we should respect the book, “7 Steps to Becoming Financially Free”: income become lower and our of pride in our parishes. natural environment. The arti- • The average American household has about eight major parish changed to a mission and I question why you would cles that I sometimes read in the bank credit cards (17 when you include department store and eventually closed. want to change something that Catholic newspaper make it gas cards) that carry a combined balance of almost $8,000. St. Aloysius is and always is working so well and reaching seem that it is our duty to have (Business Week, April 25, 2005 and the Gallup Organization: has been an excellent school. the goals set for them. manicured lawns and dispose of April 16, 2004.) Both my wife and I have been I extend the invitation to unwanted plants and leaves. It • More than 19 million households, or about 17 percent of members of St. Aloysius for those decision makers to visit seems to me that in order to ful- American families, make only minimum payments on their over 80 years. We raised five our schools and see the fine fill the pope’s stance on ecolo- cards. (Business Week, April 25, 2005.) children who also attended work that is being done. Come gy, it would be better if charita- • There were nearly 1.6 million bankruptcy filings in 2004, school there and we have to a school Mass and see our ble helpers of the elderly and compared to less than 400,000 in 1986. (www.uscourts.gov) served on many committees and reverent and attentive students. disabled came not to clean up • More than 50 percent of Americans are worried about not boards, including the building As parents we have chosen yards but to help identify plants, having enough money for retirement. (The Gallup committee in 1955 when our to send our children to these insects, wildlife and processes Organization: May 18, 2004) new school was built. parish schools. We sacrifice, that make an ecosystem func- • Charitable giving averages 1.7 percent of household St. Aloysius has graduated offer our time, talents and trea- tion. I have done this with field income for all Americans and about 1 percent for American many successful students, sures to insure that our faith, guides in my own yard and Catholics. (Independent Sector; The Barna Group: 2000) including valedictorians and children and schools remain found many uses for plants that • Fifty-one percent of Christians believe money is the main salutatorians, also several strong. some people call weeds. symbol of success in life. (The Barna Group: 1997) priests attended this school — Mike and Judy Moring Anybody can do this, all you • Fifty percent of all marriages end in divorce, and money Fathers Edward Freiburger, Earl Fort Wayne need is the proper field guide issues are pointed to as a significant cause in many breakups. Harber, Vincent Giese, Don that you can get from your local (www.family.org) Davison and Jason Freiburger Prayer in parishes library. We live in a time of bailouts where banks and big businesses and several nuns. Gregory J. Konger are asking for a handout from the taxpayer. Many decry the St. Aloysius has always man- bring others the Fort Wayne government bailout plans, but do we also look at our own per- aged to support our causes and I Christ sonal spending habits? Do we emphasize want over real need? feel that closing this school St. Aloysius School Lenahan, in his book, writes, “The way you can achieve true would be a mistake in judgment Since the elections, there has heart of parish financial freedom and peace is to recognize that God has a plan and a great disservice to the been a great deal of analysis of for your life — including your finances. Our faith provides the cause of a “Catholic education.” what the bishops did or did not It is with a very heavy heart that answers we’re looking for, so we can develop a healthy, whole- I feel sure that this recom- do, especially about pro-life I understand that you are consider- mendation of the special com- issues; but the truth is: bishops ing closing St. Aloysius School. My some and holy attitude when it comes to how we manage our family is fairly new to the commu- money. In fact, how you handle your money is one of the best mittee would change if the do what the bishops do. Our job is to do what we are to do, nity but my children and grandchil- indicators of the strength and vitality of your spiritual life. ...” group visits and finds the true dren have attended St. Aloysius To see some of the benefits of the parish-based 7 Steps to value of St. Aloysius School, as which includes dramatically School. There are many families Becoming Financially Free, visit the Web site, a fine school and central part of improving the spiritual opportu- that are on their fourth or fifth gen- http://7steps.osv.com/. St. Aloysius Parish for now and nities and atmosphere of our eration of attendance. The school in the future. parishes. It is not as hard as it has been the heart of the church for Robert W. Freiburger sounds. It is simply a matter of over 132 years. Yoder encouraging your parish to be a These are only a few of the rea- Do tax breaks diminish our generous spirit “cardinal parish.” A “cardinal sons why this school should stay With the assistance of the diocesan Planned Giving Director School source of parish” is one that sponsors open: Elisa Smith, Today’s Catholic spends a good bit of time dis- eucharistic adoration, Divine • We are running in the black. cussing tax break options and other financial planning goals this pride in parish Mercy devotions and the Parish • The school is the center of the week. church and church community. In regards to the recent Rosary Program. (Visit • We are in the 95th percentile One may question: Is our stewardship somehow diminished announcements concerning con- www.parishprojects.com) if we take advantage of tax breaks. We will answer, “no.” In for ISTEP scores. solidations, I feel compelled to There is no greater work than • We have had valedictorians and fact, as we quote from a stewardship brochure from Our write this letter. As we all know, to bring souls to Jesus. “We are salutatorians from St. Aloysius at Sunday Visitor, “sometimes (tax breaks) can extend and encour- consolidation will result in the called to be faithful, not suc- Bishop Luers, Norwell and Wayne age good stewardship.” loss of a quality Catholic educa- cessful,” said Mother Teresa. high schools. As we receive end of the year requests for donations, let us tion for those students who will We are not to be like the servant • We have graduated doctors, especially remember those hungry, homeless and those facing lose their school. The retention who buried the single talent he lawyers, nurses and yes, even financial difficulties. The agencies that assist them have great rate of those affected to move was given because he feared he priests. demands from those at the receiving end and the giving end. might not trade it successfully. • We have five more students at will probably be less than 10 St. Aloysius with our wonderful Tough economic times call for wise prudent monetary deci- percent. A direct result will be How awful for anyone who sions. preschool program than we had in the loss of those students not fails to whole heartily attempt 1995. making the move on to Bishop to lead others to Jesus; even • We have a beautiful facility Luers High School. But more worse, for those who deliberate- that will be paid off within a year. importantly will be the students, ly, inadvertently, or by omis- • Most of all, we have a family for the large majority of them, sion, like the Pharisees, become community in the school. Today’s Catholic editorial board consists of Ann Carey, Kay Cozad, Fred and there will be no more morning stumbling blocks to the sources Ron and Mary Ann Ripperger Lisa Everett, Father Mark Gurtner, Father Michael Heintz, Tim Johnson, Mass, rosary or confession, let of grace. Ossian Vince LaBarbera and Mark Weber. alone the loss of religious As a new year approaches, I DECEMBER 7, 2008 COMMENTARY 11 Paul and traditional liturgy CATEQUIZ’EM By Dominic Camplisson here are four places in the New Testament where NOTRE DAME CENTER FOR LITURGY In December the church remembers St.John Damascene, priest and TJesus’ Last Supper is doctor.His name refers to his birthplace and this quiz looks at his home- described. An account is found in land Syria and the city of Damascus. Matthew, Mark, Luke and Paul. Of DEDICATED TO LITURGICAL RESEARCH these four, Paul is the earliest. AND PASTORAL LITURGY 1.In the Old Testament this name is often used for the area known later as Syria: Scholars say Paul’s letters were a.Aram b.Edom c.Galilee written roughly around the years A.D. 45-50. Mark was written 15 years later, Matthew and Luke, 10 The Year of St. Paul 2.In the book of Amos the Lord promises to “break the bar of Damascus.”What does years after that. that mean? This means that Paul’s account a.destroy all male inhabitants in 1 Cor. 11 is the oldest Scripture to have pizza. And because some- on to you, that the Lord Jesus, on b.break the bar that is used to lock the gates we have concerning the institution times we like new things, tradition the night he was handed over, took c.remove the exclusive male priesthood of Dagon of the Mass. If Jesus’ birth starts gets the reputation of being boring. bread ...” But this is not the case at all. Jesus took the bread, blessed it, the clock ticking at zero and he 3.In Hosea 12 it is related that Jacob fled to the country of Syria.He then worked to get dies in A.D. 33, then Paul is writ- Think of it in a different way. broke it and gave it to his friends a wife.What occupation did he have? ing this to the church in Corinth Tradition means literally “to hand to eat. After supper, he took the only 15 years later. on.” If what is being handed on is cup, blessed it and gave it also to a.He became a shepherd. Thus, there is already an ele- truly important, vital, if our happi- his friends to drink. b.He preached the truth of Yahweh. ment of tradition in Paul. Look ness depended on it, then we Paul will not change that prac- c. He made tents. how he begins: “For I received would wait impatiently for the tra- tice. He wants to hand it on in the from the Lord what I also handed ditioning. For instance, suppose a form in which he received it. We 4.The book of Isaiah starts with a dramatic prophesy about Damascus saying it would be on to you. ...” We are as close to messenger were handing on a let- could therefore say, Paul under- a.the capital of Syria the beginning as we can get, and ter by a beloved from whom we stood the liturgy he gave to the had not heard for many years. church at Corinth to be traditional. b.integral to the future of the church yet tradition is being affirmed. c.utterly destroyed Paul handed on what he received What did Paul hand on? That’s There is much ink spilled over — that is what the word tradition another way of asking, “What is what “traditional liturgy” means. means. the Christian tradition?” What did Our minds go to certain kinds of 5.The Old Testament notes with disgust that King Ahaz was inspired to copy this,after We sometimes think of tradi- Paul receive that he, in turn, gave music, certain kinds of architec- seeing it in Damascus: tion as nothing more than “the to the church at Corinth? ture. But it seems to have a deeper a.An altar for the temple way it’s been done before.” It’s You know the conclusion of meaning, after all. A liturgy is tra- b.A statue of Baal traditional to have turkey on what he wrote. “For I received c.The world’s first pirated video Thanksgiving, it’s not traditional from the Lord what I also handed PAUL, PAGE 12 6.1 Maccabees relates that Jonathan,on his way to Damascus,was welcomed every- where except this city,still in the news today: Advent time of repentance and mercy a.Azzeppo b.Gaza c.Nicea 7.Matthew’s Gospel is thought to have probably been written in this city,which,rather weekend, the church presents a sin, is indeed the root of all evil, passage from the Second Epistle of producing death itself, not simply than Damascus,was the capital of Syria: Peter. Its theme differs from that of earthly death but eternal death. a.Tarsus b.Aleppo c.Antioch THE the first reading. The first reading And, inevitably, it leads to misery was wonderfully optimistic. This in life on earth. 8.1 Maccabees also mentions the Syrian king Antiochus III.He,however,had to pay SUNDAY reading is grim in its predictions of These lessons, while unequivo- tribute to this rising imperial power,which would come to dominate the region before dark days and of gloom. cal and admittedly dour, are not in the time of Christ: GOSPEL However, it does not forecast the end terrifying or filled with a.Carthage b.Rome c.Egypt everlasting death. Bad things will doom, however. Instead, all three MSGR. OWEN F. CAMPION happen. Difficult times will come. readings remind us that God’s 9.This Roman soldier was associated with the military cohort headquartered in Syria. But, God will protect the faithful. mercy is overwhelming and In this last reassurance, the reading unending. In God’s mercy is hope, His baptism by Peter is recorded in Acts. parallels the message of the first because through God’s mercy sins a.Cornelius 2nd Sunday of Advent reading. are forgiven and everlasting life is b. Nero The last reading is from the acquired. c.Simon Magus Mk 1:1-8 beginning of Mark’s Gospel’s story The key to obtaining this mercy he reading for this Second of the Lord’s public ministry. This personally is to recognize personal 10.Some authorities believe that the Gospel of John was written in Syria,but the most Sunday of Advent is from reading quotes Isaiah’s prophecy sin and repent. The church’s won- common home for this work is thought to be the second section of Isaiah. T that God, as pledged, will send a drous reassurance in these readings a.Cyprus b.Ephesus c.Crimea When this book was written, representative to guide the people is God never turns away a sincere- very bad times seemed about to from death to life, from the deadly ly sorrowful sinner. Always, we end for God’s people. Their long, effects of their sins to the bright can rely on God’s love. But, God 11.Luke’s Gospel describes the census ordered by Caesar Augustus as taking place dreary exile of four generations in realms of God’s forgiveness. does not drag us kicking and when Quirinius was governor of Syria.How does this help date Jesus’birth? Babylon was about to end. They The Gospel then tells of John screaming into heaven. We must a.It doesn’t, historians don’t find it helpful. were looking forward to returning the Baptist, who went throughout turn to God voluntarily and whole- b.It ties it down to either 45 B.C.or A.D.11 to their homeland. Judea calling people to repentance. heartedly. c.It means that Dec.25 in the year zero is the true date. The people’s joy and relief is John reinforced his role as a Advent calls us to realize that evident in this reading. Readers prophet by being thoroughly we need God, especially in our 12.Who was converted on the road to Damascus? can sense their longing to return to detached from the things of this sinfulness. We need God’s mercy, a.Peter their homeland. Also, and impor- world. His very appearance, and but we personally must seek it by tantly, readers can realize that the behavior, emphasized the fact that repenting. b.John the Baptist people saw their rescue as a gift only the spiritual matters. Only c.Paul from God, given in God’s faithful- God matters. ness to the Covenant. Mark’s Gospel, however, is 13.What is not mentioned in that account? Divine mercy formed to pro- careful to say that John himself a.hearing voices vide this rescue. The people had was not the messenger promised b.a horse neither created their escape, nor by God in the writings of Isaiah, READINGS c.his destination had they earned it. Actually, their but rather that John came before Sunday: Is 40:1-5, 9-11 Ps 85:9-14 sins had caused their troubles. God 2 Pt 3:8-14 Mk 1:1-8 this messenger. The messenger, the 14.Syrian Catholics may be Roman,Melkite or Maronite Catholic,but there is also a mercifully forgave them and eradi- Savior, of course was the Lord Monday: Gn 3:9-15, 20 Ps 98:1-4 Syrian Catholic Church.This is one of these: cated the effect of their sins, name- Jesus. Eph 1:3-6, 11-12 Lk 1:26-38 ly the exile. Tuesday: Is 40:1-11 Ps 96:1-3, 10-13 a.Eastern Catholic churches Thus, the prophet urges the Reflection Mt 18:12-14 b.Muslims for Jesus churches people to be thankful, insisting that Wednesday: Is 40:25-31 Ps 103:1- c.Russian Evangelical churches upon returning to their homeland, In Advent, through the liturgies the people must go to Jerusalem, and readings, the church clearly, 4, 8, 10 Mt 11:28-30 Thursday: Is 41:13-20 Ps 145:1, 9- 15.The population of Catholics in Syria has been increased by this unfortunate event: to the holy mountain where stood frankly and directly calls people to a.The expulsion of Catholic Palestinians from Gaza by the Israelis the temple, and there proclaim 13b Mt 11:11-15 remember who they are as b.The increased rate of Christian concerts from Islam aloud the goodness of God. humans, and to recognize the dev- Friday: Zec 2:14-17 (Ps) Jdt 13:18bc, To any who doubt, this release astating results of sin. This mes- 19 Lk 1:26-38 c.The flight of Chaldeans from Iraq from exile is proof of God’s exis- sage comes from Second Peter. Saturday: Sir 48:1-4, 9-11 Ps 80:2- tence and of God’s love, the It also echoes Second Isaiah 3, 15-16, 18-19 Mt 17:9a, 10-13 ANSWERS: prophet declares. and Mark. Sin, or total estrange- 1.a, 2.b, 3.a, 4.c, 5.a, 6.b, 7.c, 8.b, 9.a, 10.b, 11.a, 12.c, 13.b, 14.a, 15.c For its second reading this ment from God through personal 12 COMMENTARY DECEMBER 7, 2008 The Nazareth experience

he priest and poet Gerard For many writers in the early “Behold the handmaid.” making a living. His would have Manley Hopkins wrote a church the fact of Mary’s physical A Obedience is a “virtue,” which in been a marginal existence as a car- Tpoem entitled, “The Blessed virginity was given a powerful D our day seems to have fallen on penter — sawing, nailing, etc. Virgin Compared to the Air We symbolic interpretation. They hard times. And maybe it is In other words, theirs would Breathe.” In reality, his words are emphasized that on the symbolic V because our training concentrated have been perceived as an ordinary about Christ-bearing. His words level the fact of virginity highlight- E too much on individual acts. At existence. Yet they are venerated in may also be taken as a prayer, ed the virtue of integrity — the N any rate, I believe Mary’s words our spiritual tradition. And through especially during Advent. right relationship, which one convey an attitude — an attitude their ordinary existence, they Of her flesh he took flesh, should have with God. There are T which must be ours. Someone remind us that it is not so much He does take flesh and flesh, so many characteristics of this once said it best: Obedience means what we accomplish which con- Though much the mystery how, virtue that we can only highlight a BY MSGR. THOMAS MCDONNELL being ready for all — whatever tributes to redemptive greatness. Not flesh but spirit now few. God wishes. Rather, it is who we are and who And makes, 0 marvelous! Certainly, true integrity recog- Mary did not need anyone to “Going to school at Nazareth.” we may become — lovers of God New Nazareths in us nizes that God is our creator and tell her to reach out to her cousin When Pope Paul VI visited who give their hearts to him. Where she shall yet conceive redeemer. We are his handiwork. Elizabeth. The Love within her Nazareth, he pointed out the many him, morning, noon and eve; And the corollary to this truth is compelled her to reach out in love lessons to be learned: the value of New Bethlehems, and be born emphasized in the Catholic spiritu- to another. And this, too, is a part simplicity; etc. As I reflect upon There; evening, noon and al tradition when it highlights the of integrity. Nazareth, I am led to concentrate Msgr.Thomas McDonnell is a retired morn... truth that everything is gift. Thus Sometimes it may happen that of what we might call the values of priest from the Archdiocese of Our focus, in this reflection will our prayer life must center about circumstances prevent us from per- the ordinary. And we might so ide- Boston. He has dedicated his life be Nazareth where the beginnings thanksgiving and gratitude. In this forming concrete acts of love for alize their home life that we forget to the urban poor and disabled. A of our redemption are to be found. context we understand Meister others. On this point, St. Augustine that Mary and Joseph’s lives were cancer survivor, he is the author But there is more, much more — Eckhardt’s observation: “If the (En. on Psalm) has some helpful circumscribed by the ordinary. of “Walking in the Dark Valley: as will be seen. For the sake of only prayer we say is “Thank words: Mary would have been busy about When Cancer is a Constant clarity, we will highlight a few you,that is enough.” “Love is a powerful thing, my the womanly tasks of her time: Companion.” This is the second phrases which might help us focus Mary’s prayer and attitude was brothers and sisters. Do you wish fetching water, cleaning, washing, of a series offered by Today’s our attention. one of hope — looking forward to to see how powerful love is? cooking, etc. And Joseph was busy Catholic through Advent. “And the virgin’s name was that which may yet be. For the disci- Whenever, through some necessity, Mary.” How often have we heard ple, hope must be an integral part of you cannot accomplish what God this verse or read it without paus- our being. Truly the one who radi- commands, let him love the one ing to prayerfully consider its ates hope is a gift to the Christian who accomplishes it and thus he SCRIPTURE SEARCH implications for our own lives. community and to the world. accomplishes it in that other.” By Patricia Kasten Gospel for December 7, 2008 The great places: St. John Lateran — Mark 1:1-8 Following is a word search based on the Gospel the church standing erect reading for the Second Sunday of Advent, Cycle B, the beginning of Mark’s Gospel. The words can be found in all directions in the puzzle. ome. Because the media to history as Innocent III and Leo drama of the papacy often XIII. Thirty-seven years old BEGINNING SON OF GOD ISAIAH Rhas St. Peter’s for its when elected to the papacy in THE PROPHET SENDING MESSENGER stage, many Catholics may not 1198, Lotario was already a AHEAD OF YOU VOICE FORGIVENESS know that the Patriarchal Vatican noted canonist, theologian and CATHOLIC SINS PEOPLE CAMEL’S Archbasilica isn’t the pope’s liturgist; during his papacy, LEATHER BELT WAIST cathedral. St. Peter’s belongs, in Innocent III was Europe’s most a sense, to the whole church, and powerful political figure and a DIFFERENCE LOCUSTS HONEY WORTHY STOOP SANDALS SPIRIT the pope presides there as univer- forceful exponent of the view GEORGE WEIGEL sal pastor of the Church. The that papal authority trumped that Lateran Basilica — or, to give it of kings and emperors. He died its full name, the “Patriarchal in Perugia a relatively young MAKE STRAIGHT Archbasilica of the Most Holy man, in 1216, on a mission that and Leo XIII was its first suc- cessful modern papal exponent. Savior and of Sts. John the combined diplomacy with the JOSONOFGODPT Baptist and Evangelist” — is the spiritual renewal of northern Sovereignty is important for pope’s cathedral, the site of the Italy. Innocent’s tomb remained the exercise of the papal office: OFEWLYENOHR I in order to fulfill his mission as cathedra of the Bishop of Rome. in Perugia until 1891 when Leo POOOWED I DEOR Long styled as “mother and XIII (who had served as bishop universal pastor of the church, head of all churches in the city of Perugia ) brought it to the the pope cannot be subject to any OHPRKWLNG I P I other sovereignty. So the Lateran and the world,” the Lateran basil- Lateran, where the greatest of OEVTGASN I SHP ica was built by Constantine as a medieval popes now rests in the Treaties of 1929, which created “votum” or thanksgiving offering arm of the basilica’s transept. the Vatican City micro-state, TLOHJ I E IAAES were not unimportant. But just as for his victory over Augustus Leo XIII is buried opposite, in SP I YJSVGN I TL Maxentius, and consecrated by the transept’s other arm — a important, and arguably more Pope St. Sylvester I in either 318 papal memorial parallelism that important, was Leo XIII’s asser- LOCUSTSEAANA tion of the moral authority of the or 324. (The foundations of prompts some thought. EEEETLEBNHJD Constantine’s basilica were once When Pecci was elected pope keys — the papal mandate to teach and persuade the nations, the barracks of an elite Roman in 1878, the papacy controlled no MPMFREHTAELN cavalry unit that had backed the sovereign territory (the Papal using the tools of both faith and wrong horse, so to speak, in States had been absorbed into the reason. AHEADOFYOUSA In the Lateran, the statue of Constantine’s struggle with Kingdom of Italy ); the pope was CELLAGN I DNES Innocent III lies recumbent upon Maxentius.) For some 900 years, the “prisoner of the Vatican,” and © 2008 Tri-C-A Publications www.tri-c-a-publications.com the popes lived in the Lateran many among the worldly wise his marble catafalque. The effigy palace adjacent to the basilica. imagined the Office of Peter a of Leo XIII stands erect, boldly There, the special vocations of spent force in human affairs. proclaiming the moral truths that make society possible. Leo, St. Dominic, St. Francis of (England’s Cardinal Henry To be traditional means not to for- Assisi, and their followers were Edward Manning, fearful of architect of the modern papacy, embodied the church persuasive get this, either. Keep gathering the confirmed by Pope Innocent III; Italian interference in the con- LETTER people of God to hear the Word the palace now houses the vicari- clave of 1878, proposed holding in life; fittingly, that is how he is sculpted in death. CONTINUED FROM PAGE 11 and share the meal of life. ate of Rome, the local diocesan the papal election in Malta under That is what the Lord com- administration. In the 15th centu- the protective guns of the Royal manded, and Paul handed on (tra- ry, the Lateran basilica was home Navy.) Yet Leo XIII’s 25-year ditional if it hands on Jesus’ sacri- ditionally), and we obey. It is part to the first Jubilee “Holy Door,” pontificate saw the papacy begin ficial action to repeat again, and of the reason why the church is so symbolizing pilgrims passing to assert the kind of influence his body and blood to eat and careful with her liturgical heritage. from sin to grace — a tradition that would culminate in the piv- drink. It is traditional if it hands on that has continued down to the otal role played by Pope John Christ’s life to us. Great Jubilee of 2000. Paul II in the collapse of There is one more part to the The most notable papal tombs European communism and the tradition, and Paul hands it on, too. For more information about the in the Lateran basilica are those liberation of central and eastern George Weigel is a senior fellow of “Do this in remembrance of me.” Notre Dame Center for Liturgy, of Lotario de’Conti di Segni and Europe. This was the power of the Ethics and Public Policy There was a command that which is providing this series on Gioacchino Pecci, better known moral argument and persuasion, Center in Washington, D.C. night, and we are not to forget it. St. Paul, visit www.liturgy.nd.edu. DECEMBER 7, 2008 TODAY’S CATHOLIC 13

NO. 2 SIOUX FALLS (S.D) NEXT TEST FOR NO. 3 USF IN NAIA FCS Road trip! Destination: Sioux Falls, S.D. That’s the next task for the University of Saint Francis football team who will bus to the University of Sioux Falls to play the Cougars in one of two NAIA Football Championship Series semifinal games on Saturday, Dec. 6. No. 3 Saint Francis (12-0) and No. 2 Sioux Falls (12-0) will kick-off at 1 p.m. Fort Wayne time (noon CST) with the winner advancing to the 2008 NAIA FCS Championship Sports Game in Rome, Ga., on Saturday, Dec. 20. Eagles soar in preseason tourney

Cassel again to earn another Gators one loss in the double- BY MICHELLE CASTLEMAN chance to play the Raiders. elimination process. Then in the On Sunday afternoon, the two loser’s bracket, Bud Sorg’s ladies FORT WAYNE — While most met again, this time the Eagles beat St. Vincent 7 to net another people were out shopping for beat the Raiders handily, 33-16, chance at the Eagles, but again after-Thanksgiving bargains, the thus creating a loss for each team came up short, 30-33. In the boys and girls’ teams from St. and a final championship show- championship game, Kelsey Jude were busy kicking off their down. St. Jude came out on top Richard and Allyson Christman 2008-2009 basketball season. two out of the three times by a combined for 23 points for St. Both eighth-grade groups were two-point margin sealing the vic- Jude. Maria Zaremba paced St. crowned champions of the Queen tory, 33-31. Pacing Tim Pedro’s Aloysius. of Angels Thanksgiving 5-1 group was Andrew Spencer In his 15th season at St. Jude, PROVIDED BY SEAN MCBRIDE Invitational in a Catholic Youth with 12 points, while Weston Coach Dave Westendorf switched The runner-up state Class 4-A football team, the Bishop Dwenger Saints, Organization (CYO) preseason Painter led the Raiders with 11 from coaching boys’ teams three sneak preview. points and 14 rebounds in the years ago when his daughter, gather around their trophy after a 10-7 loss to Indianapolis Cathedral Denny Jamison, former Queen championship game. Jake Britton Meg, started fifth grade. on Saturday at Lucas Oil Stadium. of Angels athletic director first added 10 points in the loss. “It has been a lot of fun started coordinating the tourna- Pedro felt the final game watching this group of ment for CYO teams which origi- was a real battle and girls grow up togeth- nated as a Youth for Christ func- both teams play er. They are a very Saints’ perfect season tion. In 1993 the games were hard fighting to talented bunch moved to the University of Saint the very end. from top to bot- Francis site. Jamison said he Raider coach tom,” ends at ‘The Luc’ loves running the tournament and Steve Pepe Westendorf “extraordinary stadium,” Lucas BY SEAN MC BRIDE also hosts one over the Christmas added, “I was said of his 12- Oil Stadium in Indianapolis — the break. very proud of player roster. first Catholic high school team in He added, “I couldn’t do it our boys’ effort.” Westendorf, INDIANAPOLIS — The Bishop the diocese to play at the venue. without the support of people like His team, who is assisted Dwenger Saints came up one vic- The mood was more subdued Wendy Flotow, the Saint Francis whose stellar foot- by Jack Bazur, tory short Nov. 29 for the state Monday, Dec. 1 at Bishop staff and all of the officials who ball season ended just Barbara Campbell Class 4-A football championship Dwenger, as the senior football come back year after year from a few short weeks ago, and Paul Spaulding, played at Lucas Oil Stadium. The players filed in to take their place as far away as Florida.” The was down by two points with feels blessed his team has a statistics and the score didn’t in the front row with their fellow teams added to the record books 1.3 seconds left and could not get lot of depth this season. He used match as the Saints lost a heart- teammates. The somber-faced for the Friday, Saturday, Sunday the shot off. four different starting lineups breaker, 10-7, to the Indianapolis Saints gathered one-last time as a marathon of games were as fol- “St. Jude is a solid team and I during the tournament and plans Cathedral Fighting Irish. unit to honor and recognize the lows: give a lot of credit to their to settle into a final group by Prior to the game the Saints out senior players and Indiana Class defense,” concluded Pepe. The midseason. scored, out-gained and out-defend- 4-A state runner-ups. Boys Girls two teams encountered each He added, “The team has a ed the Irish. But some key miscues Instead of talking about the 1. St. Jude 8 1. St. Jude 8 other several times during the good mix of guards and big play- led to the loss. “what ifs?” of the game, Coach 2. St. John, NH 8 2. St. Aloysius summer months competing in ers and doesn’t lose much with Four key mistakes including a Svarczkopf chose to focus on an 3. St. Joseph-HC 3. St. Vincent 7 Parks and Recreation basketball our second group.” missed field goal, a dropped inter- article written by junior Mary splitting their meetings 2-2 and These girls have had much ception, a dropped touchdown Cebalt in last week’s school In a challenging feat, the St. will face each other yet one more success over the years with CYO pass and a blocked field goal lead newspaper, The Golden Trumpet, Jude Eagles eighth-grade team time in the opener of the CYO championships and just three to the Saints loss. which asked “What makes a team came out of the loser’s bracket regular season this weekend. losses at the fifth- and sixth- “We didn’t have the offensive a team?” and downed the unbeaten Raiders On the girls’ side, the Lady grade level. As seventh graders a play to keep up with this team,” Cebalt wrote that God inspires from St. John the Baptist, New Eagles went undefeated to come year ago, the Eagles went unde- said Bishop Dwenger Coach Chris Bishop Dwenger students in their Haven, twice to take the top spot out the victors in their 10-team feated winning both the league Svarczkopf. “We stopped them daily lives, on and off the field, in the boys’ eight-team tourney. tournament. But the Gators from and tournament titles. Westendorf many, many times, but we just had and our faith in him gives us After opening wins over Most St. Aloysius did not make it easy. expects the CYO Gold League to to be more productive on offense.” something not every school has Precious Blood and St. Joseph- After beating a young St. Joseph- have many tough teams this year. Bishop Dwenger held — one thing that we all share in Hessen Cassel, the Raiders Hessen Cassel, 38-16, and a “We are looking forward to Cathedral (12-2) to 131 yards, but common, despite our diversity knocked the Eagles into the tough St. Vincent seventh-grade working hard and having a fun both of the Irish’s scores were set otherwise. loser’s bracket by handing them a squad, 38-25, St. Jude got by St. season,” concluded Westendorf. up by Saints’ mistakes. The Saints, Bishop D’Arcy offered his 31-29 loss. From there, the Aloysius on a thrilling last sec- And opening 4-0, the Eagles are who averaged 327.2 total yards of words of encouragement and Eagles went on to beat Hessen ond shot, 41-40, which gave the off to a good start. offense per game, were held to thanked the team and Coach only 179 yards of total offense. Svarczkopf for representing “They are just a great football Bishop Dwenger with grace and team,” said Cathedral Coach Rick dignity in the face of a painful Streiff of Bishop Dwenger. “They loss. Fort Wayne’s were not going to go away.” In his closing remarks, Bishop Most Complete “Both teams made plays,” Dwenger’s principal recalled the Dwenger senior receiver and Notre teary-eyed fans who lamented, “It Wedding Service. Dame recruit Tyler Eifert said. “It just isn’t fair” as they left was a hard-fought game. It could Indianapolis. Tone sympathized You can choose one or all Banquet Rooms have gone either way.” and could agree, but concluded The Saints’ Joe Colone was the pep session with a challenge of our services. We’ll make the best of Hotel Rooms aptly named the 4-A Mental to the student body to see the your special event. Hall’s has been in the Award winner. positive in every situation and Rehearsal Dinners Prior to the game, Bishop business of making people happy for vowed to wear a t-shirt sporting Catering Service Dwenger High School held a the words, “Don’t Mess With Mr. over 60 years. You can trust us to Tuesday afternoon rally. Bishop Positive” on Fridays for the do it just right. Wedding Cakes John M. D’Arcy prayed with the remainder of the school year. team and school, rallied the team and participated in a football toss For more information contact Hall’s Guesthouse at: competition. Greg Jones, Michelle Castleman and (260) 489-2524 • www.DonHalls.com He also mentioned the honor of Tim Johnson contributed to this playing for the first time at that article. 14 TODAY’ S CATHOLIC DECEMBER 7, 2008

Today’s Catholic BOOK OF THE MONTH CLUB This month’s featured selection: “The Blessing of Christmas” by Pope Benedict XVI his little crimson book may be small in size but it Assisi, who was the first to create a crèche, and St. is mighty in meaningful text and brilliantly juxta- Elizabeth of Hungary, who spent her last hours of life Tposed ancient artwork. The preface tells the reader telling of the life of Jesus, add to the rich texture of church it “brings together in one volume two earlier books by history the pope presents. And the stunning artwork sprin- Joseph Ratzinger that perfectly compliment each other: kled throughout draws the reader into the beauty and depth ‘The Light That Shines upon Us,’ 1978 and ‘Praise of of mankind’s ancient journey of Christmas. Christmas,’ 1982.” The author challenges the reader to consider the silence The text curiously begins with the “burden of sickness,” of the yuletide as God works to change hearts from within. which then-Cardinal Ratzinger relates to the purification He addresses the truth that God came to mankind as the and waiting of Advent. In that anticipation there is hope, he child of Jesus, the light that shines in the darkness. His says, while using examples of the beauty of nature and the message: “It is of course true that the freshness, the purity, frailty of man to illuminate his message of eternal joy in and the openness of a child give us hope.” Christ. “The Blessing of Christmas” is an easily understand- Three of the seven chapters begin with a numbered able yet powerful reminder that the child Jesus in the Scripture verse that brings to life the message on the pages. Christmas story is beautiful and good. And when men Scripture and surprising personal anecdotes are interspersed encounter it, they become good. For they have seen the throughout the tome and the text is packed with new mean- glory of God in this world. ing to an age old Biblical inheritance. Ratzinger describes how some of the most cherished Christmas customs come from the Advent liturgy, such as Questions for discussion bow before the Christ child born in a stable? the Christmas tree and decorations. Even the custom of • What does “Silence is the space of this child. Silence Christmas baking comes from liturgy: “In that day, the • When have you experienced the “burden of sick- is the sphere where God is born” mean to you? How can mountains will drip sweetness and the rivers will flow with ness,” whether physically or spiritually? How did the silence bring you closer to God? (Page 90) milk and honey.” waiting purify you? • How can a renewed focus on the truth and beauty of In the genealogy of Jesus, Pope Benedict XVI writes of • Discuss the ramifications of the four women from the Christmas message bring you hope for your personal the Scripture reference lineup focusing on the five women Jewish history and Mary in Matthew’s genealogy account future? of “faith and grace.” He speaks at length of the freedom of in chapter two. love and how the child Jesus brings us new awareness of • How are you like the ox and ass in chapter four, who Visit www.diocesefwsb.org/blog for discussion on this book. God’s love each Christmastide. Historical church figures, the likes of St. Francis of Editor’s note: Please let us know if you enjoy or use the Book of the Month Club feature. Send comments to [email protected].

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TV Mass schedule for December Catholic Comment every Sunday in Fort Wayne at 7:05 a.m. 2008 Fort Wayne 10:30 a.m. South Bend 10:30 a.m. Feast Day WISE-TV,Ch.33 WNDU-TV,Ch.16 on WOWO 1190 AM and in South Bend at 7:30 a.m. Father Cornelius Ryan,CSC Second Father James Stoyle on WSBT 960 AM Dec.7 Sunday of Cathedral of Immaculate Little Flower Advent Conception, Fort Wayne South Bend

Third Father Joe Gaughan Father Leonard Chrobot Dec.14 Sunday of Most Precious Blood St.Hedwig/St.Patrick Advent Fort Wayne South Bend

Fourth Father William Peil Father Mike Heppen, CSC Join a Sunday of St. Anne Home Our Lady of Fatima House Brass Ensemble, Dec.21 Fort Wayne Redeemer Radio Advent Notre Dame The Cathedral Choir, WLYV 1450 AM Guest Pianist Vigil Bishop John M.D’Arcy Midnight Mass LIVE offers the Rosary: Dec.24 of Midnight Mass LIVE from Dyne Pfeffenberger 5:30 a.m. and 11 p.m. Christmas at the Cathedral the Vatican and Harpist Nancy Morse for Nativity Bishop John M.D’Arcy Mass taped from the Stations of the Cross: Special Holiday Music and Caroling. Dec.25 of LIVE at the University of Sisters of Perpetual 5:30 a.m.Sat.and Sun. Wednesday, December 10, 2008 - 7:30 p.m. the Lord Saint Francis Adoration Chapel Time TBA in the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception Feast of the Father Gary Sigler Father Charles Herman in downtown Fort Wayne Dec.28 Holy Family Queen of Angels St. John the Baptist All Cathedral Concerts are free and open to the public. Fort Wayne South Bend 16 TODAY’ S CATHOLIC DECEMBER 7, 2008