Journey of faith Archbishop Charles C. Thompson to lead pilgrimage to eastern Canadian shrines, page 3. Serving the Church in Central and Southern Indiana Since 1960

CriterionOnline.com December 6, 2019 Vol. LX, No. 10 75¢ First woman to lead ICC brings wealth of experience to public arena By Victoria Arthur

Angela Espada knows how to connect with people. Her friend and former dean of Loyola New Orleans Law School, Maria Pabón, is one of many who can attest to that. In 2002, Espada was serving as assistant dean of admissions at Indiana University’s McKinney School of Law when Pabón was hired for a faculty position there. Unexpectedly, Pabón received a call while she was in Indianapolis Angela Espada to search for a house. It was Espada, extending pirit an invitation to a woman she had never even S met. The “Angela builds community,” Pabón said. of hristmas “That’s who she is. She is aware of the humanity of us all.” C Espada will use these attributes in her This Nativity set, one of the roughly 1,000 crèches and Nativity-related items Larry and Amy Higdon have collected, is included among the couple’s new role as the executive director of the display in their barn in Fairland. (Photo by Natalie Hoefer) Indiana Catholic Conference (ICC), which will become effective on Jan. 1, 2020. Since her Oct. 7 appointment as incoming executive director, Glenn Tebbe, the ICC’s Holy Trinity couple find comfort, joy executive director for the past 16 years, has been acclimating Espada to the role. Tebbe will continue to work closely with Espada in collecting, displaying 1,000 crèches during the next session of the Indiana General Assembly before his anticipated By Natalie Hoefer crèches and Nativity-related items Joseph and the infant Jesus upon his retirement in late spring of 2020. they’ve collected in the last three years. birth in Bethlehem. The ICC serves as the official public FAIRLAND—Larry Higdon is near The mind reels a bit upon first seeing “Sometimes I come in here and just policy voice of the Catholic Church in 70. His wife Amy is in her mid-50s. But the display. In what serves as a utility sit, it’s so peaceful,” says Larry. Indiana, requiring its leader to articulate the catch the Fairland couple in their utility barn the rest of the year, from mid- The members of Holy Trinity Parish Church’s position on key issues and speak barn this time of year and you’ll find November through early January long in Edinburgh sit in a cozy nook at the for the bishops of the five dioceses around two young souls walking among rows of tables and shelves laden with Nativities back of the barn and tell the tale of how the state. Espada will be the first woman treasures like two kids in a candy store. create a bedazzling sight several layers their collection began, and the comfort at the helm of the ICC since its inception “My favorite is the one my dad high and several rows deep. and joy it has brought them and all who in 1966, and the first woman of color to built in 1963,” Larry says, while Amy’s Wood, porcelain, metal, plastic. come to see it. hold a Catholic conference directorship favorite “is a little one from Italy.” Traditional, kitschy, simple, elaborate. nationwide. They’re talking about Nativity sets. Parts that move or spin or light up. Wall ‘I felt bad leaving them there’ “The executive director of the Indiana More precisely, they’re talking about hangings, ornaments, snow globes. “When I was growing up, I used Catholic Conference is a unique position their favorites among the roughly 1,000 All in some way memorializing Mary, See CRÈCHES, page 10 requiring a variety of skills and exceptional See ICC, page 8 Pope asks Catholics to set up Nativity scenes as a reminder of ‘God’s tender love’ for us VATICAN CITY (CNS)—A Nativity scene is a simple reminder of something astonishing: God became human to reveal the greatness of his love “by smiling and opening his arms to all,” Pope Francis said in a letter on the meaning and importance of setting up Christmas crèches. “Wherever it is, and whatever form it takes, the Christmas crèche speaks to us of the love of God, the God who became a child in order to make us know how close he is to every man, woman and child, regardless of their condition,” the pope wrote in his apostolic letter, “Admirabile Signum” (“Enchanting Image”). Pope Francis signed the short letter on Dec. 1, the first Sunday of Advent, during an afternoon visit to Greccio, Italy, where Pope Francis prays during a visit to the Nativity scene of Greccio, Italy, on Dec. 1. The first See POPE, page 10 Nativity scene was assembled in Greccio by St. Francis of Assisi in 1223. (CNS photo/Vatican Media) Page 2 The Criterion Friday, December 6, 2019

Franciscan Father Rami Asakrieh holds a reliquary Public Schedule of containing what is believed Archbishop Charles C. Thompson to be a small fragment of ______Jesus’ crib on Dec. 1, in the Franciscan Church December 7 – 24, 2019 of St. Catherine, which is adjacent to the Basilica of December 7–19 December 24 – 10 p.m. the Nativity in Bethlehem, “Ad limina” visit to meet with the pope Christmas Eve Mass at SS. Peter and West Bank. Pope Francis and other Vatican officials, Vatican City Paul Cathedral, Indianapolis gave the relic fragment to the Franciscan Custody December 22 – 11 a.m. (Schedule subject to change.) of the Holy Land, which Mass, installation of pastor and oversees the main churches dedication of renovated church at and shrines associated with Nativity of Our Lord Jesus Christ the birth, ministry, death and Church, Indianapolis resurrection of Jesus. (CNS photo/Debbie Hill) Evangelizers are like angels, bringing Pope returns part of relic good news to the world, pope says VATICAN CITY (CNS)—A thirst for “And if, with this love of his, we were of Jesus’ manger to Holy Land God and for his true and undying love is able to look into the hearts of people who, rooted in the heart of every human being, because of the indifference we breathe and VATICAN CITY (CNS)—As Advent fervor of faith and love the mystery Pope Francis said. the consumerism that flattens us, often pass approached, Pope Francis gave a small that changed the course of history. The So, in order to evangelize, all it takes is before us as if nothing were wrong,” the fragment of Jesus’ manger back to Holy Father wishes, in particular, that someone who can help revive that longing pope said, “we would be able to see the Catholics in the Holy Land. the message of peace announced by the and be a messenger—an angel—of hope, need” for God, their search for everlasting In Bethelehem, West Bank, Franciscan angels on the night of Christmas to the bringing the good news of Christ, he said love and their questions about the meaning Father Rami Asakrieh of St. Catherine men loved by God, which for 2,000 years on Nov. 30. of life, about pain, betrayal and loneliness. Parish welcomed the relic’s return and has rung out from Bethlehem, brings the The pope spoke to bishops, religious “Faced with such concerns,” he said, called it “a great blessing.” gift of peace and reconciliation which our and laypeople taking part in an “prescriptions and edicts are not enough; “This is more blessings for this place,” world needs more and more.” international meeting at the Vatican we need to walk together, become travel he said. “You can’t imagine the great joy Franciscan Father Francesco Patton, on Nov. 28-30. Sponsored by the companions. to have this blessing.” custos of the Holy Land, said the relic Pontifical Council for Promoting New “In fact, people who evangelize can On Nov. 22, experts from the Vatican would be used to “rekindle faith in Evangelization, the meeting discussed the never forget to always be on the move, Museums extracted a small fragment Jesus between the different Christian pope’s apostolic exhortation, “Evangelii seeking together with others,” the pope from the relic of what has been venerated communities of the Holy Land.” Gaudium” (“The Joy of the Gospel”). said. “They cannot leave anyone behind, as Jesus’ manger. The relic, given to the Local Catholics in Bethlehem had the People long for God and his love, and they cannot be allowed to keep at a Vatican in the seventh century, has been opportunity to venerate the relic at Mass so they need angels “in flesh and blood distance those who are limping, they kept in a chapel under the main altar of at St. Catherine’s on Dec. 1 before the who draw near to dry tears, to say in Jesus’ cannot shut themselves up within their St. Mary Major Basilica in Rome. relic was put away until a proper location name, ‘Do not be afraid,’ ” the pope said. little group of comfortable relationships.” Pope Francis gave the relic fragment to and protocol for it can be arranged. “Evangelizers are like angels, like Those who proclaim God’s word, the Franciscan Custody of the Holy Land, Meanwhile, as Christmas approaches, guardian angels, messengers of good who “know no enemies, only traveling which oversees the main churches and the opening hours of the Church of the do not deliver ready-made answers, but companions” because the quest for God is shrines associated with the birth, ministry, Nativity adjacent to St. Catherine have share life’s questions” and know “the God common to everyone, so it must be shared death and resurrection of Jesus. been extended by three hours to 8 p.m. of love” is needed to live, he said. and never be denied to anyone, he said. The relic arrived in Jerusalem on to accommodate the influx of pilgrims The pope told his audience they should Nov. 29 and was present during a Mass who sometimes wait up to four hours to not be held back by “the fear of making celebrated by the apostolic nuncio, go down to the grotto where, according to mistakes or the fear of following new Archbishop Leopoldo Girelli, in the Christian tradition, Jesus was born. paths,” and they should not be saddened by chapel of Our Lady of Peace at the Notre On the first day of Advent, the wait difficulties, misunderstandings or gossip. Dame Center in Jerusalem. was only about one hour. “Let us not be infected by the After the Mass and time for people to “We are going to wait as long as it defeatism according to which everything venerate the relic, the Franciscan friars takes to go in,” said David Williams, 67, goes wrong,” he said. carried it in procession to the Church of of Texas as he waited in line with his In order to hold fast to “the Gospel’s St. Saviour, where they prayer Vespers. tour group and a local guide. “It is very enthusiasm,” the pope told them, call on The relic was transferred to Bethlehem on exciting. This is what you read, and when Pope Francis speaks during an audience the Holy Spirit, who is the spirit of joy Nov. 30 to be in place for the beginning you read it again after having been here with participants in a meeting sponsored who keeps the missionary flame alive of Advent on Dec. 1. there will be new insight.” by the Pontifical Council for Promoting New and who “invites us to attract the world “May the return to Bethlehem of this Local guide Jaber Saadeh, said that as Evangelization, at the Vatican on Nov. 30. only with love and discover that we can piece of holy wood arouse in us the a Christian he was happy to see the large (CNS photo/Vatican Media) possess life only by giving it.” † profound desire to be bearers of God. number of pilgrims coming to Bethlehem. Now it is our hearts that are a manger: “I feel so proud and happy to welcome the holy crib of God made man,” said them. We are a peaceful country,” he said. Archbishop Girelli, apostolic nuncio to Coming out from the grotto, Claudia What was the best Christmas Israel and Cyprus and apostolic delegate Haita, 44, of Romania, said the wait had to Jerusalem and Palestine, at the not been an issue. Having the opportunity gift you ever received—or gave? handing-over ceremony. to visit the grotto and say a prayer there Reading a letter sent by Cardinal had been “good for my soul as a Christian” Share it with our readers Stanislaw Rylko, archpriest of the Basilica and strengthened her faith, she said. The best gift that God ever gave the Dec. 12 to The Criterion’s of St. Mary Major, Archbishop Girelli Another pilgrim who identified world arrived on Christmas. Beyond the editor Mike Krokos by e-mail at said, “Pope Francis accompanies this gift herself only as Maria said she had been gift of Jesus in our lives, The Criterion [email protected] or by mail in with his blessing and with the fervid wish overwhelmed by the experience. is asking readers to share the stories of care of The Criterion. 1400 N. Meridian that the veneration of this illustrious relic “I had an overwhelming feeling of tears the best Christmas gifts they have ever St., Indianapolis, IN 46202. Please can open the hearts of many men and of joy, but also a feeling of sadness because received—or given. include your parish and a daytime women, adults and youngsters, the elderly of the hurting of humanity, of the suffering. Please send your responses by number where you can be reached. † and children, to receive with a renewed It is time to let that go,” she said. †

The Criterion NEWS FROM YOU! (ISSN 0574-4350) is Do you have something exciting or published weekly except The newsworthy you want to be considered the last week of December to be printed in The Criterion? and the first week of The 12/06/19 Phone Numbers: E-mail us: January. Main office:...... 317-236-1570 [email protected] Moving? Advertising...... 317-236-1585 1400 N. Meri­dian St. We’ll be there waiting if you give us two weeks’ Toll free:...... 1-800-382-9836, ext. 1570 Indianapolis, IN 46202-2367 advance notice! Circulation:...... 317-236-1585 317-236-1570 Staff: Toll free:...... 1-800-382-9836, ext. 1585 800-382-9836 ext. 1570 Editor: Mike Krokos Name______Price: [email protected] $22.00 per year, 75 cents per copy Assistant Editor: John Shaughnessy E-mail______Reporter: Sean Gallagher Periodical postage paid at Postmaster: New Address______Send address changes to The Criterion, Reporter: Natalie Hoefer Indianapolis, IN. 1400 N. Meri­dian St., Indianapolis, IN 46202-2367 Graphic Designer / Online Editor: Brandon A. Evans Copyright © 2019 City______Executive Assistant: Cindy Clark Web site : www.CriterionOnline.com Criterion Press Inc. State/Zip______New Parish______E-mail: [email protected] POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: Effective Date______Published weekly except the last week of December and the first week of January. Criterion Press Inc. Note: If you are receiving duplicate copies please send both labels. Mailing address: 1400 N. Meri­dian St., Indianapolis, IN 46202-2367. Periodical postage paid 1400 N. Meridian St. at ­Indianapolis, IN. Copyright © 2019 Criterion Press Inc. ISSN 0574-4350. Indianapolis, IN 46202-2367 The Criterion • 1400 N. Meridian St. • Indianapolis, IN 46202-2367 The Criterion Friday, December 6, 2019 Page 3 Archbishop Thompson to lead pilgrimage to eastern Canadian shrines

By Natalie Hoefer beatified him in 1982. In October 2010, Pope Benedict XVI declared Blessed Archbishop Charles C. Thompson will Brother André a saint. lead a pilgrimage to the eastern Canadian On the second day, pilgrims will also shrines on July 15-21, 2020. take in the Cathedral of Marie-Reine-du- He says he “became familiar with the Monde, “Cathedral of Mary, Queen of the various places on our pilgrimage” while World,” a minor basilica and Canada’s earning his master’s third largest church. degree in canon Before departing for Quebec City law from St. Paul on the third day, a private Mass will be University in Ottawa, celebrated at Our Lady of the Cape Shrine Canada, from 1990- in Montreal, followed by a guided tour of 1992. the site. That afternoon, pilgrims will enjoy “During that time, a walking tour of Old Quebec City, home I had a few occasions base for the remainder of the pilgrimage. to travel to Montreal Old Quebec was founded as a Catholic and Quebec City,” the colony in 1608. The Recollet Order Archbishop Charles archbishop says. “The arrived in 1615, followed in 1625 by the C. Thompson sacred places that we Jesuits, who soon established a college will be visiting—such there. The walls surrounding the Old City as St. Joseph’s Oratory in Montreal and were built in the 1600s, and the oldest the Shrine of St. Anne de Beaupre just building remaining within those walls is outside Quebec City—are internationally an Ursuline chapel completed in 1642. known places of pilgrimage and worship.” On the fourth day of the pilgrimage, Archbishop Thompson appreciates the a private Mass will be celebrated at The Notre Dame Basilica in Montreal, Canada, is one of many cathedrals, basilicas and shrines where “beautiful scenery in, around and between the Shrine of St. Anne de Beaupré, the those joining Archbishop Charles C. Thompson on a pilgrimage to the eastern Canadian shrines on these cities,” and says the “history second oldest pilgrimage site in North July 15-21, 2020, will visit and participate in celebrations of the Mass. (Submitted photo) surrounding the cities and other places is America and the second largest church also fascinating.” in Canada. It is dedicated to Saint Anne, flight transportation from Indianapolis Prices are based on current Encompassing the holy sites, scenery mother of the Blessed Virgin Mary and is to Montreal and from Quebec City transportation fuel charges and taxes/fees. and history the archbishop references, known for containing an exact replica of to Indianapolis; deluxe motor coach Any changes in these costs, over which the pilgrimage will include daily Mass Michelangelo’s famous Pieta statue. transportation; a bilingual (English Grueninger Travel has no control, will be at shrines, cathedrals and basilicas in the The afternoon of the fourth day will be and French) tour leader; entrance to passed on to travelers. region—including Canada’s first, second filled with scenery and sights as pilgrims pilgrimage sites with guides and four Not included in the cost are personal and third largest churches—as well as visit the old region of Côte de Beaupré, private Masses; sightseeing and admission purchases, lunches, snacks, drinks at outings such as a light show, a river the renowned Cooper art museum, the fees; two nights hotel accommodations included meals, and any other meals not cruise, sightseeing and more. 276-foot tumble of Montmorency Falls, in Montreal and four nights hotel included in the itinerary. The journey begins with a morning and the Isle of Orleans. accommodations in Quebec City; daily For more information or to register, flight from Indianapolis to Montreal on Pilgrims will stay in Old Quebec breakfast at the hotels; three dinners, go to www.grueningertravelgroup.com/ July 15, where pilgrims will spend two on day five, with the only scheduled with coffee and tea; post departure aoi2020, call Grueninger Travel at 317- full days. planned time being Mass at the Cathedral trip insurance purchased on behalf of 581-1122, or e-mail them at info@ Begun as a missionary settlement and of Notre Dame de Quebec, the oldest the group; hotel porterage; all taxes grueningertours.com. Questions can also fur trading center in the 1500s, Montreal church in Canada and the cathedral of the (local, provincial and federal) and tips be directed to Rita Maguire, archdiocesan is now the second most populous city in Archdiocese of Quebec. on included items; onsite services of a coordinator of special events, at 317- Canada. It is located on Montreal Island, The rest of day five, pilgrims are free Grueninger Travel Group travel director; 236-1428, 800-382-9836 ext. 1428, or by the largest of 234 islands comprising to explore the beautiful, well-preserved and all driver tips. e-mail at [email protected]. † the Hochelaga Archipelago near the city. With its narrow brick streets, quaint confluence of the Ottawa and cafés and shops, not to mention its St. Lawrence rivers. many historic buildings, Old Quebec is Among other activities, the first day often referred to as the “Little Europe of includes a private Mass and guided tour Canada.” at the Basilica Notre Dame de Montreal, The chance to explore the many sites followed by an evening light show at the of Old Quebec will continue through the I give to the basilica. morning of day six. Then pilgrims will On day two, pilgrims will visit Saint enjoy a sightseeing cruise on the Joseph’s Oratory and national shrine in St. Lawrence River, so pivotal to the city’s United Montreal, where a private Mass will be history and economy. celebrated. A minor basilica, St. Joseph’s The day will end with a farewell Oratory is the largest Catholic Church in dinner in Old Quebec, and on day seven Catholic Canada. pilgrims will take their return flight to Construction of the first church on the Indianapolis. site began in 1904 by Holy Cross Brother The cost per person, based on a Appeal André Bessette. Known for his ability minimum of 35 paid travelers, is $3,169 to heal, Brother André is said to have per person for double occupancy, or performed many miracles. Pope John Paul $3,925 for single occupancy. because... II deemed the miracles to be authentic and The cost includes estimated roundtrip

I want to make a difference.

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Opinion Making Sense of Bioethics/Fr. Tad Pacholczyk Medicine and a ‘sense of the sacred’ As clergy, we touch upon very holy After a few days spent in a haze realities when we baptize, consecrate the of panic and tears, McCarthy and her Archbishop Charles C. Thompson, Publisher Greg A. Otolski, Associate Publisher Eucharist, give absolution to sinners, or husband Michael took a flight out of Mike Krokos, Editor John F. Fink, Editor Emeritus anoint the sick. These Ireland to undergo a “compassionate special moments induction” of labor at Liverpool engage divine grace Women’s Hospital. The terminology in deep and important brought to mind an astute observation Editorial ways in the lives of a friend had once made: “Beware of those to whom we any medical procedure with the word minister. ‘compassion’ in its name; it often In the midst conceals wrongdoing.” of these sacred When the hospital clerk arrived to realities, we remain, get their informed consent signature, nonetheless, very the procedure listed on the form was: human and fallible instruments. I “Feticide termination of pregnancy.” remember one time when a bishop Feticide is a medical term referring to the contritely divulged in my presence that killing of a human, in this case during during the consecration that morning all an early stage of development—“fetal he could think about was a good cup of homicide.” After McCarthy’s labor was hot coffee. induced, a large-gauge needle (termed a We clergy need to attend carefully to “catheter” in the article) was used for the the graced realities we regularly handle feticide; it passed through her abdomen lest we end up squandering or losing and uterus into her baby’s heart and our sense of the sacred. The old adage potassium chloride was injected to stop its reminds us: familiarity breeds contempt. beating. An elderly priest and professor in Rome Shortly thereafter, her stillborn son used to urge us as seminarians: “Seek the was delivered: “I saw his perfect little grace to celebrate each holy Mass as if it face for the first time. I felt that same A priest blesses a couple during their wedding ceremony. A recent Pew survey reveals were your first Mass, your last Mass, and post-birth relief and elation as I had that 74 percent of Catholics in the U.S. now think that cohabitation is acceptable. (CNS photo/ your only Mass.” after the birth of my other two children. Juan Carlos Ulate, Reuters) Similar challenges exist in the world The midwife wrapped him in a towel, of medicine. Physicians who work with and I held him close. I felt at complete frail and vulnerable human beings every peace with my decision and just sat day must be attentive when it comes to holding and staring at my beautiful Catholics and cohabitation the sacredness of their patients and their son. In the morning, the midwife profession. helped us dress John. We spent the day It seems that every time the Pew something we should enjoy, the Church One of the lesser-known lines from holding and looking at him and taking Research Center reports the results teaches that “it is a gift of God by which the famous Hippocratic Oath has always photographs.” of its latest survey, it’s bad news men and women participate in his saving intrigued me: “In purity and holiness, I It’s hard to miss the jolting because it shows how far our society plan and respond to his call to grow will guard my life and my art.” unseemliness of the family’s taking is abandoning traditional morality and in holiness” (United States Catholic Doctors face a range of unique photos of their dead child whose life religious practices. Pew is the research Catechism for Adults, p. 405). temptations that the Oath enumerates: it they had just ended. McCarthy’s actions center that has reported on the growing The Church’s vision of sexuality, counsels them to swear off “all mischief cannot be squared with her vocation as number of “nones” (those who profess based on both natural law and revelation, and in particular of sexual relations with a mother or with her sacred calling as a no religious affiliation) in our society, sees it as involving all aspects of the both female and male [patients]” as well physician to “do no harm.” That sacred among other things. human person, including the power as all abortions and acts of euthanasia. calling translates into helping all those Its latest report, in many ways, is even to love and procreate, and that sexual To engage in any of these activities born with birth defects or afflicted by more alarming. A study showed that 60 activity should not be separated from is to lose one’s way, forswearing the disease, without ever imposing death percent of Americans under the age of 45 commitments made in marriage. sacredness of the medical profession’s penalties onto them. Ahead of all others, have cohabitated; that is, men and women It’s those commitments that calling. physicians are tasked with grasping this living together outside of marriage. Even differentiate marriage from cohabitation. Yet some doctors, not unlike some key truth. worse, 74 percent of Catholics in the U.S. During a wedding ceremony, the couple priests and bishops, end up losing touch Hippocrates possessed unusual now think that cohabitation is acceptable. vow to be faithful to one another. Our with this “sacred dimension.” wisdom and foresight to codify these How can that be? society’s mores no longer require such a An article in the Irish Times, written real dangers for the soul of the medical It’s hard for us to believe that only 26 commitment, which is why the divorce by a physician in the run-up to the professional millennia ago. As we percent of Catholics surveyed accept the rate is so high. 2018 abortion referendum in Ireland, witness an unprecedented collapse teachings of the Catholic Church when it The Church also sees marriage as a exemplified this loss and profanation of of the sense of the sacred within the comes to sexual activity. Does that mean covenant: “The matrimonial covenant medicine’s sacredness. world of the healing arts today, we that the 74 percent were never taught by which a man and a woman establish Following a routine 20-week must assiduously pray for those who what the Church teaches, or that they between themselves a partnership of the ultrasound of her third pregnancy, have turned their backs on that ancient have been so influenced by our secular whole of life, is by its nature ordered toward Dr. Caroline McCarthy described her and time-tested Oath, and vigorously society that they reject those teachings? the good of the spouses and the procreation sadness at learning that her baby “had support those fighting to uphold its We believe that the older members of and education of offspring” (Catechism of no kidneys and as a result there was tenets within medicine’s hallowed our Church would be as amazed as we the Catholic Church, #1601). no amniotic fluid. His lungs could hallways. are to see such statistics. Cohabitation How is it, then, that so many Catholics not develop properly without the instead of marriage is a relatively new appear to reject those teachings? Perhaps fluid, but he wouldn’t need his lungs (Father Tadeusz Pacholczyk, Ph.D. earned phenomenon in U.S. society. It happened because a smaller percentage of Catholic or his kidneys until after birth, so his doctorate in neuroscience at Yale during earlier generations, when it children now attend Catholic schools the pregnancy would probably carry University and did post-doctoral work was called “shacking up,” but it wasn’t or receive instruction and formation in to term.” She was told she had two at Harvard University. He is a priest of condoned. Now, according to Pew, a lot Catholic doctrine. We know that some options: “Carry my baby to term and he the Diocese of Fall River, Mass., and of young people are doing it. parents are not fulfilling their duty to would either be born dead or die shortly serves as director of education at The Priests are aware of this, especially make sure that their children know what after birth, or travel to the UK to end National Catholic Bioethics Center in those who prepare couples for marriage the Church teaches and practices, and the pregnancy.” Philadelphia. See www.ncbcenter.org.) † in the Church. In some cases, the why we have these tenets. couples are already living together and When was the last time you heard priests have to counsel them to stop a homily about chastity? It’s true that doing so, if possible, until after their homilies should primarily pertain to the Letters Policy wedding, or, at least, to stop having biblical readings of the day, but priests sexual relations until then. and deacons are allowed to use homilies Letters from readers are published in based on space limitations, pastoral Somewhere along the line, young for catechesis, such as on the virtue of The Criterion as part of the newspaper’s sensitivity and content (including people decided for themselves that there chastity. commitment to “the responsible spelling and grammar). In order to is nothing wrong with having sex before Couples these days often consider exchange of freely-held and expressed encourage opinions from a variety of marriage. That didn’t just happen among cohabitation as a trial marriage, wanting opinion among the People of God” readers, frequent writers will ordinarily today’s young people; it also was the to live together to see if they’re compatible (Communio et Progressio, 116). be limited to one letter every three case for some of their parents. That’s the before exchanging vows. But studies have Letters from readers are welcome months. Concise letters (usually less only way we believe that cohabitation shown that this doesn’t work: those who and every effort will be made to than 300 words) are more likely to be could be acceptable to 74 percent of cohabit before marriage have a higher include letters from as many people printed. Catholics. They were influenced more percentage of divorce than do those who and representing as many viewpoints as by our society—and by their family and do not live together before marriage. possible. Letters should be informed, Letters must be signed, but, for friends—than by the Church. Those who minister to young people relevant, well-expressed and temperate serious reasons, names may be withheld. The Church has always been have their work cut out for them to in tone. They must reflect a basic sense Send letters to “Letters to the Editor,” countercultural, and perhaps never convince them that God’s plan for of courtesy and respect. The Criterion, 1400 N. Meridian Street, more so now than when it comes marriage is better than society’s. The editors reserve the right to select Indianap­olis, IN 46202-2367. Readers to sex. Unlike our present society’s the letters that will be published and to with access to e-mail may send letters to culture, which sees sexuality simply as —John F. Fink edit letters from readers as necessary [email protected]. † The Criterion Friday, December 6, 2019 Page 5 ARCHBISHOP/ARZOBISPO CHARLES C. THOMPSON

hrist C the Cornerstone

Blessed Virgin Mary, St. John the Baptist both point to Jesus

“John the Baptist appeared, preaching a spirit of wisdom and of and the child lay his hand on the of unquenchable fire that burns away in the desert of Judea and saying, understanding, adder’s lair. “every tree that does not bear good ‘Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is a spirit of counsel and of strength, There shall be no harm or ruin on fruit” (Mt 3:10). To prepare ourselves at hand!’ It was of him that the prophet a spirit of knowledge and of fear of all my holy mountain; for the coming of the Messiah, and to Isaiah had spoken when he said: A the Lord, for the Earth shall be filled with be ready for the new world his coming voice of one crying out in the desert, and his delight shall be the fear of knowledge of the Lord, inaugurates, we must repent. Prepare the way of the Lord, make the Lord. as water covers the sea. The Solemnity of the Immaculate straight his paths” (cf. Mt 3:1-3) Not by appearance shall he judge, On that day, the root of Jesse, Conception calls attention to the way nor by hearsay shall he decide, set up as a signal for the nations, that Mary, who was conceived without The Second Sunday of Advent but he shall judge the poor with the Gentiles shall seek out, original sin, is different from us. But falls on Dec. 8 this year. That causes justice, for his dwelling shall be glorious” as Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI has us to celebrate the Solemnity of the and decide aright for the land’s (Is 11:1-10). observed, “This privilege given to Immaculate Conception a day later on afflicted. An entirely different world is Mary, which sets her apart from our Monday, Dec. 9. He shall strike the ruthless with the prophesied from anything known common condition, does not distance Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI has rod of his mouth, before. This is the world that Mary her from us, but on the contrary, it written that the two great Advent and with the breath of his lips he prefigures by her sinlessness, her brings her closer. While sin divides, figures are Mary and St. John the shall slay the wicked. Immaculate Conception. And it is the separating us from one another, Mary’s Baptist. Both bring to conclusion the Justice shall be the band around his future that John anticipates as he calls purity makes her infinitely close to time of preparation and waiting that waist, the people of Israel to a baptism of our hearts, attentive to each of us and characterized Israel’s hope that God’s and faithfulness a belt upon his hips. repentance. desirous of our true good.” Mary’s promises would be fulfilled. Both point Then the wolf shall be a guest of the “I am baptizing you with water, for difference does not separate her from to Jesus as the long-awaited Messiah. lamb, repentance,” John says, “but the one us; her purity makes her more open and On the Second Sunday of Advent, and the leopard shall lie down with who is coming after me is mightier than accessible to all of us, her children. the first reading from the Book of the the kid; I. I am not worthy to carry his sandals. During this special time, as we begin prophet Isaiah proposes the glorious the calf and the young lion shall He will baptize you with the Holy a new Church year and prepare for vision of hope that will be fulfilled browse together, Spirit and fire. His winnowing fan is Christmas, we are invited to stay close to when God’s Anointed One, the with a little child to guide them. in his hand. He will clear his threshing Mary, the mother of Jesus and our mother. Messiah, comes: The cow and the bear shall be floor and gather his wheat into his Like John the Baptist, Mary points “On that day, a shoot shall sprout neighbors, barn, but the chaff he will burn with the way to her son. She reminds us of from the stump of Jesse, together their young shall rest; unquenchable fire” (cf. Mt 3:11-12). the miracles Jesus works in our daily and from his roots a bud shall blossom. the lion shall eat hay like the ox. What is coming (the reign of God) is lives, and she invites us to respond with The spirit of the Lord shall rest upon The baby shall play by the cobra’s a time of unparalleled peace and justice, open hearts, “May it be done to me him: den, but it will be preceded by a baptism according to your word” (Lk 1:38). †

La santísima virgen María y san Juan Bautista apuntan hacia Jesús

“Por aquel tiempo comenzó Juan el El espíritu del Señor en él reposará: Aquel día la raíz de Jesé debemos arrepentirnos. Bautista a predicar en el desierto espíritu de inteligencia y sabiduría, será el estandarte de los pueblos, La Solemnidad de la Inmaculada de Judea. Decía:‘Conviértanse, espíritu de consejo y de valor, a ella acudirán las naciones Concepción resalta el hecho de porque ya está cerca el reino de los espíritu de conocimiento y de respeto y será esplendorosa su morada» que María, concebida sin pecado cielos.’ A este Juan se había referido al Señor. (Is 11:1-10). original, es distinta de nosotros. el profeta Isaías cuando dijo: Se Se inspirará en el respeto al Señor. Se profetiza un mundo Tal como señaló el papa emérito, oye una voz; alguien clama en el No juzgará a primera vista completamente distinto de todo lo que Benedicto XVI: “Este privilegio desierto:¡Preparen el camino del ni dará sentencia de oídas; se conocía hasta ahora: es el mundo otorgado a María, que la distingue Señor; abran sendas rectas para él!” juzgará con justicia a los pobres, que presagia María a través de su de nuestra condición ordinaria, no (cf. Mt 3:1-3). con rectitud a los humildes de la Inmaculada Concepción, sin pecado, nos distancia sino que, al contrario, tierra; y el futuro que anticipa Juan cuando nos acerca a ella. Si bien el pecado Este año, el segundo domingo de herirá al violento con la vara de su llama al pueblo de Israel a un bautismo divide y nos separa, la pureza de Adviento cae el 8 de diciembre, lo que boca, de arrepentimiento. María la coloca infinitamente cerca nos lleva a celebrar la Solemnidad de con el soplo de sus labios matará al “Yo los bautizo con agua para de nuestros corazones, atenta a cada la Inmaculada Concepción un día más malvado; que se conviertan—dice Juan—pero uno de nosotros y deseosa de que tarde, el lunes 9 de diciembre. la justicia será su ceñidor, el que viene después de mí es más alcancemos el verdadero bien.” Lo El papa Emérito Benedicto XVI ha la lealtad rodeará su cintura. poderoso que yo, y yo ni siquiera soy que distingue a María no la separa de escrito que María y san Juan Bautista El lobo vivirá con el cordero, digno de llevarle las sandalias. Él los nosotros; su pureza la predispone y son dos figuras destacadas en el la pantera se echará con el cabrito, bautizará con Espíritu Santo y fuego. la hace más accesible a nosotros, sus Adviento puesto que ambos cierran novillo y león pacerán juntos, Llega, horqueta en mano, dispuesto hijos. el ciclo de preparación y espera que y un muchacho será su pastor. a limpiar su era; guardará el trigo en Durante esta temporada tan especial, caracterizó la esperanza de Israel de La vaca pastará con el oso, el granero, mientras que con la paja mientras comenzamos un nuevo año que las promesas de Dios se cumplirían. sus crías se echarán juntas; hará una hoguera que arderá sin fin” litúrgico y nos preparamos para la Ambos apuntan a Jesús como el tan el león comerá paja como el buey. (cf Mt 3:11-12). Navidad, se nos invita a mantenernos esperado mesías. Jugará el lactante junto a la cueva Lo que viene (el Reino de Dios) cerca de María, la madre de Jesús y La primera lectura del segundo del áspid, es una época de paz y justicia nuestra madre. domingo de Adviento proviene del libro el niño hurgará en el agujero de la sin precedentes, pero a la cual le Al igual que Juan el Bautista, María del profeta Isaías e ilustra una visión víbora. antecederá un bautismo con un fuego señala el camino hacia su hijo. Ella nos gloriosa de esperanza que se cumplirá Nadie hará daños ni estragos que arde eternamente y que quema recuerda los milagros que obra Jesús cuando el Ungido por Dios, el mesías, en todo mi monte santo, “todo árbol que no dé buenos frutos” en nuestra vida cotidiana y nos invita venga: pues rebosa el país conocimiento del (Mt 3:10). Para prepararnos para la a responder con corazones abiertos: “Un rebrote saldrá del tocón de Jesé, Señor venida del mesías y estar listos para el “Hágase en mí según tu palabra” de sus raíces brotará un renuevo. como las aguas colman el mar. nuevo mundo que inaugura su venida, (Lc 1:38). † Page 6 The Criterion Friday, December 6, 2019

For a list of events for the next four weeks as reported to Events Calendar The Criterion, log on to www.archindy.org/events.

December 8-9 Taizé Prayer Service, 7-8 p.m., wine tasting, vendors, church December 16 435 W. Troy Ave., those who wish to remain. Holy Name of Jesus Church, silent and spoken prayers, tours, caroling, Thurs. 5-9 p.m.; St. Mark the Evangelist Indianapolis. Christmas Information: peggygeis@ 89 N. 17th Ave., Beech Grove. simple music, silence. Fri. 5-10 p.m.; Sat. 11 a.m.- Parish Cenacle House, Mass, 2 p.m. Information: att.net. National Night of Prayer for Information: 812-535-2952, 10 p.m.; Sun. 11 a.m.-6 p.m., 6118 Smock St., Indianapolis. 317-784-4439 or www. Life and Adoration, uniting [email protected]. free admission. Information Caregiver Support Group, catholiccemeteries.cc. January 3 the feast of the Immaculate and schedule of events: www. sponsored by Catholic Women’s Care Center, Conception with the feast December 11 stjohnsindy.org/village. Charities, 5: 30-7 p.m. December 19 4901 W. 86th St., Indianapolis. of St. Juan Diego, prayers St. Joan of Arc Church, Information: Monica St. Joseph Church, First Friday Mass, 5 p.m., and adoration for an end to 4217 Central Ave., December 14 Woodsworth, 317-261-3378, 1401 S. Mickley Ave., Father David Huemmer abortion and God’s blessings, Indianapolis. Community Saint Meinrad Archabbey [email protected]. Indianapolis. Third Thursday presiding, optional tour of Sun. 9 p.m. to Mon. 1 a.m. Open House, public viewing Guest House Chapel, Adoration, interceding for center to follow. Information: Information: 317-784-5454, of church’s interior restoration, 200 Hill Drive, St. Meinrad. Our Lady of Fatima Retreat women experiencing crisis 317-829-6800, www. [email protected]. tour guides available, Service of the Longest House, 5353 E. 56th St., pregnancy, 11 a.m.-7 p.m., womenscarecenter.org. refreshments, 6-8 p.m. Night, Benedictine Father Indianapolis. Leave the Light with Mass at 5:45 p.m. December 8-10 Information: 317-283-5508, Adrian Burke presiding, On, reconciliation available January 4 St. Vincent de Paul Church, [email protected]. prayer and Scripture for those 9 a.m.-7 p.m., no appointment Our Lady of Peace Cemetery All Saint Parish, St. John the 1723 I St., Bedford. Parish who mourn and struggle with necessary. Information: and Mausoleum, Baptist Campus Hall, 25743 Mission: 60 Minutes for December 12 loss during the Christmas Jennifer Burger, 317-545- 9001 Haverstick Road, State Route 1, Guilford. Jesus, Missionary of Mercy Archbishop O’Meara Catholic season, 6 p.m. CT, 7681, [email protected], Indianapolis. Christmas Growing the Faith: Finding Father Jim Sichko presenting, Center, 1400 N. Meridian refreshments to follow, www.archindy.org/fatima. Mass, 2 p.m. Information: Time for God, Stacey 7-8 p.m. each evening, freewill St., Indianapolis. Caregiver free parking in Guest House 317-574-8898 or www. Sumereau presenting, Mass offering. Information: Support Group, sponsored lot. Reservations requested December 17 catholiccemeteries.cc. and catered meal, 6-9 p.m., 812-275-6539, parish@ by Catholic Charities, 5:30- but not required by Mount St. Francis Center for freewill offerings accepted, svsbedford.org. 7 p.m. Information: Monica Dec. 13. Reservations and Spirituality, 101 St. Anthony December 21 registration requested by Woodsworth, 317-261-3378, information: info@ Dr., Mt. St. Francis. “Abide” St. Michael the Archangel Jan. 2 online at December 10 [email protected]. abbeycaskets.com, Adoration Service, sponsored Church, 3354 W. 30th St., bit.ly/2DdCxp6 (case St. Paul Hermitage, 800-987-7380. by Catalyst Catholic, 7-8 p.m., Indianapolis. Helpers of sensitive) or by calling parish 501 N. 17th Ave., Beech December 12-15 every third Tues. of the month, God’s Precious Infants, office: 812-576-4302. Grove. Ave Maria Guild, St. John the Evangelist December 15 featuring guest speaker, praise Indianapolis. Third Saturday 12:30 p.m. Information: 317- Parish, 126 W. Georgia St., St. Christopher Church, band, silence and confessions, of the month, Mass at 8:30 a.m. John Paul II Parish, 223-3687, [email protected]. Indianapolis. Christkindl 5301 W. 16th St., Indianapolis. child care available. Information followed by Divine Mercy St. Paul Chapel, 216 Schellers Village Christmas Festival, Christmas Choral Concert, and child care reservations: Chaplet and rosary at the Ave., Sellersburg. First Church of the Immaculate indoor/outdoor heated 3 p.m., freewill offering to Chris Rogers, chris@nadyouth. Clinic for Women abortion Saturday Marian Devotion, Conception, 1 Sisters of activities and events for all benefit the Sr. Marie Wolf org, 812-923-8355. center, 3607 W. 16th St., 8 a.m. rosary, meditation, Providence, Saint Mary-of- ages; live animal Nativity, fund. Information: 317-241- concluding between 10:30- prayer; 8:30 a.m. Mass with the-Woods, St. Mary-of-the- alpine slide, heated craft tent, 6314, ext. 142, pschaefer@ December 18 10:45 a.m., with continued confessions prior. Information: Woods. “Be Light” Monthly German food, beer garden and stchrisindy.org. Calvary Mausoleum Chapel, prayer at the church for 812-246-3522. †

For a complete list of retreats as reported to Announcements for couples celebrating 50, 55, 60, 65, 70 or more years of Retreats and Programs The Criterion, log on to www.archindy.org/retreats. VIPs marriage are accepted. Go to bit.ly/2M4MQms or call 317-236-1585.

January 8 812-535-2952 to request a Saint Mary-of-the-Woods, Lee and Sarah (Keough) Banks, members Providence Hall, Havlick brochure. Registration and St. Mary-of-the-Woods. of St. Andrew the Apostle Parish in Indianapolis, Center, 1 Sisters of information: 812-535-2952, Coffee with the Mystics, will celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary on Providence, Saint Mary-of- [email protected] or Providence Sister Jan Craven Dec. 19. the-Woods, St. Mary-of- www.spsmw.org/event. presenting, 9:30-11:30 a.m., The couple was married at St. Rita Church in the-Woods. Sunday at the $10, register by Jan. 11. Indianapolis on Dec. 19, 1959. Woods: Dementia Basics and January 10 Registration and information: They have five children: Karla Cazares, Tina Helpful Tips, Katie Harish Mount Saint Francis 812-535-2952, provctr@ Ervin, Sophia Harris, Jennifer and Jeffrey Banks. presenting, 1:30-3:30 p.m., Center for Spirituality, spsmw.org or www.spsmw.org/ The couple also has 11 grandchildren and two freewill offering. Information 101 St. Anthony Dr., event. great-grandchildren. † and registration: 812-535- Mt. St. Francis. Painting 2952, [email protected] or with the Padre, paint with January 16 www.spsmw.org/event. Franciscan Father Vince Providence Hall, Havlick Peterson, 6:30-9 p.m., Center, 1 Sisters of Providence Hall, Havlick $40 includes all painting Providence, Saint Mary-of- Archdiocese’s schola cantorum to hold Advent Center, 1 Sisters of supplies and assorted cheeses, the-Woods, St. Mary-of-the- Providence, Saint Mary-of- bring your own beverage. Woods. Memory Café, and Christmas concerts on Dec. 14 and 21 the-Woods, St. Mary-of-the- Information and registration: 2-4 p.m., third Thursday Woods. Dementia: Approach www.mountsaintfrancis.org/ of the month, for those living Vox Sacra (Sacred Voice), the Lourdes Church, 5333 E. Washington is Everything, Katie Harish event-tickets, 812-923-8817. with moderate dementia, schola cantorum of the Archdiocese St., in Indianapolis. presenting, 6-8 p.m., $15, caregivers and friends, Katie of Indianapolis, along with the The free concerts will feature the register by Jan. 6. Information January 11 Harish presenting, freewill archdiocesan youth choir, will present works of Byrd, Palestrina, Pearsall, and registration: 812-535- Providence Spirituality and offering. Information: its fourth annual concert of Advent and Stopford and more. 2952, [email protected] or Conference Center, Foley 812-535-2952, provctr@ Christmas music at two parishes in the For additional information, visit www.spsmw.org/event. Room, 1 Sisters of Providence, spsmw.org or coming weeks as follows: www.voxsacra.com or contact the Saint Mary-of-the-Woods, www.spsmw.org/event. • Dec. 14 at 7 p.m. at Our Lady of archdiocesan Office of Worship at St. Mary-of-the-Woods. the Most Holy Rosary Church, 520 317-236-1483, 800-382-9836, January 8, January 9 Coffee with the Mystics, February 4, 11, 18 Stevens St., in Indianapolis. ext. 1483, or e-mail ctuley@ Providence Spirituality and Providence Sister Jan Craven Providence Hall, Large Parlor, • Dec. 21 at 7 p.m. at Our Lady of archindy.org. † Conference Center, Foley presenting, 10 a.m.-noon, 1 Sisters of Providence, Room, 1 Sisters of Providence, $10, register by Jan 10. Saint Mary-of-the-Woods, Saint Mary-of-the-Woods, Registration and information: St. Mary-of-the-Woods. God St. Mary-of-the-Woods. 812-535-2952, provctr@ at the Coffee House, for Simbang Gabi novena of Masses to be Art to Lift your Spirit!, spsmw.org or www.spsmw.org/ ages 19-39, Providence Sister Wed., 9:30 a.m. or Thurs., event. Jan Craven presenting, held on Dec. 16 through Christmas Eve 6:30 p.m., Providence Sister 7-9 p.m., free, coffee and Rosemary Schmalz presenting, January 14 snacks provided. Information: The Filipino Catholic community and 5353 McFarland Ave., Indianapolis. $30 membership fee to Providence Spirituality and 812-535-2952, provctr@ the archdiocesan Office of Intercultural • Dec. 20, 6 p.m., St. Simon the join group, $5 per session Conference Center, Foley spsmw.org or www.spsmw.org/ Ministry invite all to join in a Christmas Apostle Church, 8155 Oaklandon Road, after. Contact Jeanne Frost, Room, 1 Sisters of Providence, event. † tradition of the Filipino culture, a nine- Indianapolis. day novena of Masses called Simbang • Dec. 21, 4 p.m., St. Ann Gabi. The novena begins on Dec. 16 and Church, 6350 S. Mooresville Road, Longest Night service to be held at ends on Christmas Eve. Indianapolis. Participants will join in the • Dec. 22, 11:30 a.m., St. Luke the Our Lady of Perpetual Help on Dec. 20 following already-scheduled parish Evangelist Church, 7575 Holliday Dr., Masses as follows: E., Indianapolis. A service called “The Longest prayer, ritual, word and Scripture for • Dec. 16, 6 p.m., St. Louis de • Dec. 23, 5:45 p.m., Extraordinary Night: A Mass of Consolation” will those who mourn and struggle during Monfort Church, 11441 Hague Road, Form (Latin), Our Lady of the Most be held at Our Lady of Perpetual Help the Christmas season. Fishers (Lafayette Diocese). Holy Rosary Church, 520 Stevens St., Church, 1752 Scheller Lane, in New For more information on this free event, • Dec. 17, 5:30 p.m., St. Monica Indianapolis. Albany, at 7 p.m. on Dec. 20. contact Tom Yost, parish pastoral associate, Church, 6131 N. Michigan Road, • Dec. 24, 10 p.m., SS. Peter and The service provides an evening of at 812-945-2374 or [email protected]. † Indianapolis. Paul Cathedral, 1347 N. Meridian St., • Dec. 18, 6 p.m., St. Gabriel the Indianapolis. Archangel Church, 6000 W. 34th St., For more information, contact Maria Events and retreats can be submitted to The Criterion by logging on to Indianapolis. Solito at 317-201-0196 or mariasolito@ www.archindy.org/events/submission, or by mailing us at 1400 N. Meridian St., • Dec. 19, 6 p.m., St. Jude Church, yahoo.com. † Indianapolis, IN 46202, ATTN: Cindy Clark, or by fax at 317-236-1593. The Criterion Friday, December 6, 2019 Page 7 Parishes to host Our Lady of Guadalupe celebrations Criterion staff report Dec. 12—midnight mariachi serenade; 1 a.m. choirs and serving of bread and hot The following Masses and special chocolate; 5:30 p.m. procession; events for the feast day of Our Lady 6:30 p.m. rosary; 7 p.m. Mass; of Guadalupe throughout central and 8 p.m. dinner and celebration in southern Indiana were reported to gymnasium; 9:30 p.m. closing remarks. The Criterion. St. Bartholomew Church, 1306 27th St., Holy Spirit Church, 7243 E. 10th St., Columbus. Indianapolis. Dec. 11—7-7:30 p.m. silent reflection; Dec. 10—7 p.m. rosary; 7:30 p.m. Mass, 7:30 p.m. welcome, presentation of followed by re-enactment of apparitions. dancers; 7:40 a.m. first dance; Dec. 11—7 p.m. rosary followed by dance 7:50 p.m. children’s choir and and re-enactment of apparitions; procession followed by second dance; 9 p.m. Mass. 8:15 p.m. children’s rosary and blessing; Dec. 12—7 p.m. rosary; 7:30 p.m. Mass 9 p.m. procession followed by bilingual followed by mariachi music, dance and rosary; 10 p.m. narrative of the story of reception. Our Lady of Guadalupe; 11 p.m. Mass; 11:45 p.m. dance Holy Trinity Church, 100 Keeley St., Dec. 12—midnight mañanitas followed Edinburgh. by reception with hot chocolate and Dec. 11—10:30 p.m. prayers and songs sweet breads; 6 p.m. Mass in Spanish: until start of Mass. 6:45 p.m. dance; 7 p.m. dinner in lower Dec. 12—1 a.m. Mass. level of church. This painting by artist Lalo Garcia seen on Nov. 20 is part of an exhibit in honor of Our Lady of St. Ambrose Church, 325 S. Chestnut St. Gabriel the Archangel Church, Guadalupe and St. Juan Diego at the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels in Los Angeles. St. Juan St., Seymour. 6000 W. 34th St., Indianapolis. Diego’s feast day is on Dec. 9, and Our Lady of Guadalupe’s feast day is on Dec. 12. (CNS photo/courtesy Dec. 3-11 rosary novena in church: Dec. 11—7 p.m. celebration Archdiocese of Los Angeles) • Dec. 3-6 and 9-11 at 6 p.m. Dec. 12—midnight Mass in Spanish; • Dec. 7 at 7 p.m. 8:30 a.m. Mass in English; 6 p.m. Dec. 12—7 p.m. Mass followed by Dec 12—midnight Mass; 1 a.m.-8 a.m. Dec. 12—4-6 a.m. mañanitas, coffee, bilingual Mass; 8 p.m. Mass in Spanish. fellowship in the Marian Center. church remains open for private prayer; hot chocolate and sweet bread in parish 8 a.m. St. Monica School Mass; center; 2:30-3 p.m. re-enactment of St. Joseph Church, 312 E. High St., St. Mary Church, 415 E. Eighth St., 9 a.m.-3 p.m. church open for private apparitions by St. Ambrose School Corydon New Albany. prayer; 3-6 p.m. music and praise; students; 5-6 p.m. procession; Dec. 12—7 p.m. Mass in Spanish. Dec. 11—10 p.m. rosary, re-enactment of 6-7:30 p.m. Mass with Aztec dancers; 6 p.m. bilingual Mass followed by apparitions, singing. 7:30-8 p.m. procession to gymnasium for fellowship and dinner in the gymnasium. St. Joseph Church, 125 E. Broadway St., Dec. 12—7 p.m. Mass in Spanish followed reception. Shelbyville. by reception with traditional Mexican food. St. Anthony Church, 337 N. Warman Ave., Dec. 12—6 p.m. rosary followed by Aztec St. Paul Catholic Center, 1413 E. 17th Indianapolis. dance; 7 p.m. Mass. St. Michael Church, 101 St. Michael Dr., St., Bloomington. Dec. 6—7 p.m. Mass in Spanish; Charlestown Dec. 11—10:30 p.m. presentation of the 8 p.m. rosary St. Lawrence Church, 6944 E. 46th St., Dec. 12—7 p.m. Mass. story of Our Lady of Guadalupe; Dec. 7—7 p.m. rosary Indianapolis. 11 p.m. mariachi music. Dec. 8 and 9—6 p.m. rosary Dec. 3-11—7 p.m. novena in church St. Monica Church, 6131 N. Michigan Dec. 12—midnight Mass, followed by Dec. 10—5:45 p.m. Mass in Spanish; Dec. 12—4:30 p.m. mañanitas; Road, Indianapolis. breakfast. 6:30 p.m. rosary 7 p.m. Mass in Spanish, procession and Dec. 11—7-7:45 p.m. rosary; 7:45- Dec. 11—7 p.m. rosary; 7:45 p.m. traditional dance followed by gathering. 8 p.m. music and praise; St. Philip Neri Church, 550 N. Rural St., dance; 8:45 p.m. re-enactment of 8-10 p.m. neighborhood procession; Indianapolis. apparitions; 9:15 p.m. traditional dance; St. Mary Church, 317 N. New Jersey St., 10-10:30 p.m. reenactment of apparitions; Dec. 11—7 p.m. rosary, singing 10 p.m. serenade by St. Anthony choirs Indianapolis. 10:30-11 p.m. explanation of the image of dancing, re-enactment of apparitions and and parishioners; 10-10:30 p.m. bread and Dec. 11—7 p.m. procession, Our Lady of Guadalupe; 11 p.m.- mañanitas. hot chocolate served outside the church; 8 p.m. rosary, 10 p.m. Mass, midnight mañanitas, singing, mariachi Dec. 12 midnight Mass; 6 p.m. Mass 11 p.m. Mass. 11 p.m. mañanitas and mariachi music. music. followed by dancing. † 50 years since White House conference on food, hunger issues remain WASHINGTON (CNS)—Fifty years advocates still have a lot on their plates, those who work in public policy at Lizanne Hagedorn, director of ago, the White House sponsored a so to speak, in efforts to address food Catholic Charities USA or its local Nutritional Development Services for the Dec. 2-4 conference on food, nutrition insecurities across the country as well agencies providing food to those in need Archdiocese of Philadelphia, an agency and health designed to set the groundwork as growing food-related epidemics of every day. that got its start just two years after the for a national nutrition policy and to diabetes and obesity. They also want to Anthony Granado, vice president White House conference, knows all about advise President Richard M. Nixon on ensure policies that took shape 50 years of government relations for Catholic food needs and hasn’t seen them decrease the best ways to eliminate hunger and ago do not face pending cuts proposed by Charities USA, said there are a number by any means. malnutrition in the United States. President Donald Trump’s administration. of food and nutrition policies that have As the head of agency that administers The conference succeeded in initiating Panelists at a Capitol Hill gathering the support of Catholic Charities, the local federally funded child nutrition policies to improve school lunch on Oct. 30 marked the White House food U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, the programs and a community food program, programs and nutrition education and to conference’s anniversary and discussed Catholic Health Association, Catholic Hagedorn said those who come for help give more consumer protection—which ways to move forward. Even though Rural Life and the Society of St. Vincent are not always typical; in recent years, led to the nutritional labeling food buyers Americans are not besieged by scurvy, de Paul. the agency has seen more senior citizens are now accustomed to. they said, nor are there constant images Those groups submitted a joint and college students. She also has seen The conference also helped develop of children with extended bellies from comment objecting to the Trump a shrinking pool of volunteers to serve the Women, Infants and Children (WIC) starvation, the overall lack of access to administration’s proposal to tighten those in need at food pantries. program, which offers supplemental food healthy food and good nutrition remains eligibility standards for SNAP that would Hagedorn said over the years the assistance to low-income pregnant women a major issue. cause about 3.1 million people nationwide agency also has changed its offerings and mothers and their children up to age The event, which offered healthy to lose their food stamp benefits. because of clients’ health conditions and 5, and it paved the way for the first major snacks and water, was sponsored by the The comment, submitted on Sept. 23, also to educate children about healthy expansion of the Supplemental Nutrition Friedman School of Nutrition Science called SNAP the “first line of defense food choices and exercise so they don’t Assistance Program (SNAP), which helps and Policy at Tufts University in Boston against hunger for those struggling to develop health problems. “We want to low-income individuals and families buy and Hunger Free America, a nonprofit make ends meet,” noting that just last year make sure we are helping their lifelong food. advocacy group based in New York. the program served 40.3 million people. existence,” she told Catholic News Fast forward 50 years and food policy Several of the panelists cited troubling They warned that the proposed policy Service on Nov. 21. statistics on hunger. Notably, the change would impact individual and She said she is honored to do this U.S. Department of Agriculture’s 2019 community health since food insecurity work, which she admits is “not always Household Food Insecurity in the United is linked to chronic conditions such as easy and the [government] regulations are States report said more than 37 million diabetes and is associated with increased ridiculous” because on any given day they people in the U.S. struggle with hunger. risks of hypertension, coronary heart have given people a meal that can help Other statistics they shared, compiled disease, stroke and arthritis, to name a them to face the next day. by Hunger Free America, include: few. “It’s in our blood as Catholic • 14.3 million American households They also said the proposed changes Christians to be good stewards of food were food insecure with limited or to SNAP would bring more people to and money and to bring everybody along,” uncertain access to enough food in 2018. charities for help when they are already she said, adding: “Not in an overbearing • More than 11 million children live in feeding millions each year. way but understanding ‘there but for the A man eats a sandwich at St. Mary’s Soup food-insecure households. “Our organizations already struggle grace of God go I.’ ” Kitchen in Memphis, Tenn., on Nov. 5, 2016. • Many households that experience to meet the needs in our communities As she sees it, the agency’s job will Fifty years after a White House conference on food insecurity do not qualify for federal and are forced to turn away many for remain for the long haul but with good food, nutrition and health, policy advocates say nutrition programs and need to rely on lack of resources. The proposed rule, if reason. She said the employees are using the overall lack of access to healthy food and their local food banks and other hunger implemented, will only add to a demand their gifts and talents to “help everyone good nutrition remains a major issue today in relief organizations for support. that we cannot meet,” their comment live a better life and be healthier. I know the United States. (CNS photo/Karen Pulfer Focht) No one needs to tell these facts to letter said. that’s what we’re supposed to do.” † Page 8 The Criterion Friday, December 6, 2019 Trajectory of hateful rhetoric led to Holocaust, say speakers WILMETTE, Ill. (CNS)—Hate speech stop the words,” the cardinal said. “We “When he must be stopped “in its tracks,” Chicago have to stop the hate speech in its tracks, offered to go Cardinal Blase J. Cupich said in remarks lest it begin to define people as ‘other,’ back with me, during an interfaith dialogue at Loyola and that other becomes the enemy that we I grabbed the Academy in the Chicago suburb of have to get rid of. There is a trajectory to opportunity,” Wilmette. those words that we can’t ignore.” Fritzshall said. “I The cardinal joined Holocaust survivor Krashesky said that when he first felt I was going Fritzie Fritzshall and Chicago ABC7 learned of the trip, he immediately with a friend. I news anchor Alan Krashesky in talking thought it was newsworthy enough for was going back about their July visit to Auschwitz, the him and a crew to travel to Poland. because I feel in concentration camp operated by the Nazis “We have someone who is Jewish, years to come, in occupied Poland, and to make the point someone who is Roman Catholic, coming the camps are not that the horror of the Holocaust started together and having that shared experience going to remain with hateful rhetoric. at a time when, in our country and locally the way they During their visit, Fritzshall, president too, we see a rise in anti-Semitic incidents, are today. Even of the Illinois Holocaust Museum and we see a rise in violence that is fueled now, the camps Education Center, asked Cardinal Cupich by anti-Semitism, we see worldwide an are being torn as a religious man, a man of God, how increase in the type of rhetoric and language apart. My fear has such things could happen. At the time, the that unfortunately leads people to place been and is today Chicago Cardinal Blase J. Cupich chats with Holocaust survivor Fritzie cardinal had no answer. other groups of people into categories ... for that in times to Fritzshall, president of the Illinois Holocaust Museum & Education Center, About a month later, he wrote a all these reasons it felt like we must tell this come, the young during a Nov. 18 talk at Loyola Academy in Wilmette about their July visit to column titled “Words Matter,” published story and share it,” he said. people are not Auschwitz and makes the point that the horror of the Holocaust started with on July 28 in the Chicago Catholic, the “I also felt the responsibility for those going to see and hateful rhetoric. (CNS photo/Karen Callaway, Chicago Catholic) archdiocesan news outlet. who will never make that journey, for get the story of It took some time for him to formulate those who have never visited the Holocaust Auschwitz and other camps.” the only place where prisoners had the his response, Cardinal Cupich told more museum here or elsewhere,” he added. She fears that as survivors pass away, privacy to pray. than 800 people who attended the mid- Fritzshall was a teenager when she was the story will fade. Toward the end of the war, she said, November dialogue in Wilmette. sent to Auschwitz-Birkenau, she said, and “To me, going back, and especially she was the youngest of 600 women taken “I reflected on it, and there is an part of the reason it happened was that her going back with the cardinal, has been from the camp to serve as slave labor in a answer,” Cardinal Cupich said. “It neighbors in the former Czechoslovakia educational,” Fritzshall said. “It was munitions factory. Those women helped happens in the human heart when we had taken in anti-Semitic rhetoric and our way, and the Church’s way, and the her survive so that she could tell their story. begin to criticize people, marginalize were spreading it even to the children in cardinal’s way, of saying, ‘We are there “I have lived all of these years with them, and then eventually call them their homes. for you, I am there for you. We will never the promise I made to 599 women that I ‘other,’ ‘alien,’ to ourselves. “We had nowhere to turn,” she said. allow this to happen again.’ So it truly would be their messenger,” said Fritzshall. “Then we begin to look at the ills of Fritzshall had returned to Auschwitz was a special, special trip.” “It was always, ‘Who will believe us? society, and there’s always the tendency several times, first with an aunt 30 Cardinal Cupich had visited Auschwitz Who will believe that humanity can do to scapegoat, and so we scapegoat those years ago and then leading groups as a before, but this trip was different, he said. such horrible, horrible things to other people who are other as the reason for Holocaust educator, but the fear always “I kept quiet for the most part because human beings? Somebody must live. our problems,” he said. “It becomes a lot comes back when she sets foot in the I wanted Fritzie to talk,” the cardinal Somebody must tell the story.’ easier then to get rid of the scapegoat. camp. said. “I wanted to see this terrible place “So those women gave me extra rest. That’s what a scapegoat is.” She was contemplating one last trip through her voice, through eyes. That’s They took care of me,” she said. “They He explained that “there is a dynamic over the summer, as she was approaching what really made it real.” gave me the crumbs of their bread so that that happens. It just doesn’t happen her 90th birthday, but she wasn’t sure She was the one who told him details, I could survive. If anyone had a chance, it overnight. about it. That was when Cardinal Cupich such as how the latrines at the death was me because I was the youngest. If I “That’s why right away we have to agreed to accompany her. camp became holy ground because it was survived, I was going to tell their story.” †

historic to have a woman of color in this from Father Thomas Scecina Memorial same fashion.” ICC very important position for the Catholic High School in Indianapolis. After A lifelong Catholic himself, Rovaris continued from page 1 Church in Indiana, Angela was chosen earning two undergraduate degrees from predicts that Espada will be “a catalyst for as the best person from among several the University of Indianapolis, she headed good” in her new role. intellect as well as a strong Catholic highly qualified candidates,” he said. to Indiana University in Bloomington, Those sentiments were echoed by faith,” said Archbishop Charles C. “While Glenn will be greatly missed where she earned her law degree as well Stephanie Whitley, director of religious Thompson, speaking of Espada’s selection upon his retirement next year—his as a master’s degree in higher education. education at Holy Angels Parish in following an exhaustive search. contributions have been immeasurable—I Newly married to José Espada, Indianapolis, where the Espadas have “Angela strikes me, first and foremost, am excited about Angela stepping into whom she met when they were both been members for the past decade. as a lifelong Catholic who takes her faith this role, and I look forward to working graduate assistants, she worked as a Whitley got to know Espada during their very seriously and lives according to her with her,” Archbishop Thompson added. deputy prosecutor. She then moved to work together on the parish’s capital Catholic beliefs,” he said. “She has a great “She exudes confidence, compassion the Indiana Supreme Court as a staff campaign to construct a new church. She deal of experience in education, diversity and enthusiasm, and along with her attorney before joining the administration also noted Espada’s diligent efforts on the training and resource management. I distinguished professional background, of the IU McKinney School of Law in Holy Angels social concerns commission. have been impressed with her people these qualities will serve her—and the Indianapolis while her husband also “Angela is very passionate about the skills and quick learning ability. There Catholic Church in Indiana—exceedingly pursued a career in administration at the things she cares about,” Whitley said. is quite a learning curve for anyone to well.” IU School of Medicine. By this time, she “She wants the very best for people, and step into this role, serving with bishops In approaching her new position, had been a guardian for a younger sister, she advocates for those in need of social and staffs of five dioceses, engaging in Espada will draw upon her varied a therapeutic foster parent for a niece justice.” dialogue with political representatives personal and professional experiences and nephew, and finally a parent to her from different perspectives and both sides as well as her solid grounding in the daughter, Maya. Making connections of the aisle, coordinating various groups Catholic Church, whose teachings she is After being appointed the first African- Since early October, Espada has been and organizations, and maintaining a now charged with conveying to a wide American associate dean in the IU system, traveling the state with Tebbe, meeting consistent Catholic ethos while working variety of audiences in the public arena. Espada was selected by the American key individuals and with people of various faith traditions and Council on Education for its prestigious entities. The 2020 beliefs.” ‘A catalyst for good’ fellows’ program. ACE fellows, identified session of the Indiana Archbishop Thompson noted that Angela traces her Catholic roots and as emerging leaders in higher education, General Assembly while women have held key leadership strong moral compass to her family and immerse themselves in administration at a begins on Jan. 6, and positions in the archdiocese and other the parish where she was baptized. She host institution. Espada’s fellowship year the ICC will once dioceses around the state and the nation, was a member of St. Rita Parish and was was in Nashville, Tenn. While there, the again weigh in on “especially in light of comments and a student in its school in Indianapolis, chancellor of Indiana University–Purdue the issues facing the encouragement provided by Pope which was founded a century ago as the University Indianapolis appointed her to a legislature. Tebbe and Francis, I believe that it is very timely city’s first parish for African-American new position: associate vice chancellor for Espada anticipate the and appropriate to have the first woman Catholics. diversity, equity and inclusion. Glenn Tebbe return of many issues to serve as ICC executive director in Later, she was a member of St. Joan of Dr. Dereck Rovaris, Sr., vice provost that have dominated Indiana.” Arc Parish, also in Indianapolis, before for diversity and chief diversity officer past legislative sessions—from predatory The archbishop also acknowledged enrolling in public school. Unfortunately, of Louisiana State University, has been lending to pro-life matters. the groundbreaking nature of having the curriculum was not challenging a friend of the family since Espada’s “The key issues continue to be an African-American woman in this enough and Espada returned to St. Rita days in university admissions and was a protecting religious freedom, promoting role. “To be clear, although it is quite School, graduating from there and then member of her fellows’ cohort. Espada’s the common good, and the dignity of gifts were apparent to everyone in the life and dignity of the person,” Espada program. said. “Glenn has been wonderful in “Angela is a very focused, connecting me with key players on all ‘[Angela] exudes confidence, compassion and compassionate, intelligent individual who the issues. I have met so many people enthusiasm, and along with her distinguished is always on the right side of justice,” who are passionate about their faith and Rovaris said. “And that’s not just from who try not only to do good, but to be professional background, these qualities her education and legal training, but her led by the spirit and to do God’s will. It will serve her—and the Catholic Church in family. She comes from a family where is inspiring.” Indiana—exceedingly well.’ doing the right thing was always the expectation, and nothing short of that (Victoria Arthur, a member of St. Malachy —Archbishop Charles C. Thompson was acceptable. She and José have raised Parish in Brownsburg, is a correspondent their daughter Maya, a magna cum laude for The Criterion. For more information graduate of Harvard University, in the on the ICC, visit www.indianacc.org.) † The Criterion Friday, December 6, 2019 Page 9 Mary’s WAY promotes ‘Women Answering Yes’ to God By Victoria Arthur “God uses trials to draw us closer Special to The Criterion to him,” Bischel told the gathering of approximately 160 women. “Accidents BROWNSBURG AND ST. LEON— do happen, but nothing happens by Growing up in their Cincinnati home, accident.” Teresa Schutzman and her 10 siblings She passed along this message to the frequently heard the same message as women when they encounter such times: they were rushing out the door. “Go to Our Lady.” “Take the Blessed Mother with you.” While the subject of talks given at Those words came from their earthly Mary’s WAY events might be serious, mother, Rose, whose lifelong devotion they are delivered against a backdrop of to Mary grew even deeper when she beauty, in an atmosphere of joy. Table survived a brain aneurysm while pregnant “hostesses” often use their own formal with her 11th child. Schutzman, a member dinnerware to dress the tables. Flowers, of St. Luke the Evangelist Parish in statues of Mary and other sacred images Indianapolis, was a sixth-grader when she are used for decoration. nearly lost her mother and baby brother “When the ladies arrive at the location, in 1966. She remembers a hundred I want it to take their breath away,” people—many not even connected to their Winkle said. “I want it to be so special family—praying the rosary in the hospital that they think to themselves, ‘They did waiting room on that agonizing day. all of this for me?’ ” The 36-year-old mother who wasn’t Men of the parish, and often students, expected to live not only survived but serve the guests. Winkle explained that went on to raise all 11 of her and her the idea is for the women in attendance, husband’s children and to welcome 61 many of whom spend so much time Mother and daughter Teresa, left, and Brigette Schutzman, members of St. Luke the Evangelist Parish grandchildren. serving their own families, to relax and be in Indianapolis, greet each other in the parish’s school gymnasium during a Mary’s WAY event on “Our life was far from struggle-free fully present in the moment. Oct. 24. (Submitted photos by Victoria Arthur) after what happened, but in that struggle and through Mary’s intercession and ‘A sight to behold’ God’s mercy, we made it through those So it was for the more than 350 women times,” Schutzman said. “And our faith who attended a Mary’s WAY dinner on only grew stronger.” Oct. 15 held by the chapter of All Saints Today, Schutzman is dedicated to Parish in Dearborn County. The parish life strengthening others’ faith through Mary’s center on the St. Joseph Campus in WAY (Women Answering Yes), a Catholic St. Leon was bedecked in tones of blue women’s organization launched by her and white for the event. younger sister Ann, who was only a “It’s always a sight to behold,” said kindergartner when the events of 1966 All Saints parishioner Debbie Yeager, swirled around her. But Ann Winkle never who served as emcee for the event and forgot the Blessed Mother’s role in what she has been involved in Mary’s WAY since and countless others consider a miracle. it came to her parish five years ago. “The After attending a Marian retreat in women are just so excited about the Illinois as a busy mother of four, Winkle evening every time.” felt called to start her own program. Her All Saints pastor Father Jonathan goal was to create beautiful, memorable Meyer brought Mary’s WAY to the events for women that would free them parish upon his arrival in 2014. He had from their hectic lives for a few precious previously been an associate pastor at hours, inspire them and ultimately St. Luke, where he became familiar with encourage them to deepen their love for the program and noted its impact. and faith in Jesus Christ by following the Father Meyer said he has been amazed perfect example of his mother, Mary. to witness the growth in Mary’s WAY Winkle founded Mary’s WAY in her attendance at All Saints. As he offered then-home parish in the Chicago suburbs the blessing before the catered buffet, he in 2002. Schutzman brought it to Indiana thanked the hundreds of women present two years later, with the first event at for saying “yes” not only to coming, but St. Luke. to following God’s will in their everyday Now, 19 parishes in Illinois, Indiana, lives. North Carolina and Ohio offer the That evening’s speaker, St. Luke program. With 11 of those parishes in parishioner Dr. Beth Wehlage, shared her Karen Thomas, left, and Debbie Fry Rolfes, right, both of Harrison, Ohio, discuss the table set by Indiana—seven of which have active journey of faith and hope in battling a rare Lindy Ranz of All Saints Parish in Dearborn County, center, at the Mary’s WAY event in Guilford at the chapters in the archdiocese—the state form of cancer. Her story was featured in Parish Life Center on All Saints’ St. Joseph Campus. has by far the largest number of Mary’s the Oct. 25 issue of The Criterion. WAY chapters, and a new chapter in South The most recent Mary’s WAY dinner Bend, Ind., is in the works. was held on Nov. 7 at St. Malachy Parish “Indiana is the powerhouse of Mary’s in Brownsburg—the faith community’s Mary’s WAY chapters are present WAY,” joked Winkle, who now calls ninth annual event. As in previous years, North Carolina home. “We had no idea the dinner was a sellout with a waiting list when we started how it would grow. due to its location in a smaller hall near in seven archdiocesan parishes But when women come to these events, the church sanctuary. Mary’s WAY is a Catholic women’s • Christ the King Parish, sometimes the Blessed Mother puts it on “We held the event in the [school] organization whose mission is to Indianapolis; next event is in 2021. their heart to start something of their own.” cafeteria one year,” said St. Malachy deepen love and faith in Jesus Christ For more information, contact Phyllis parishioner Nancy Sangl, who has chaired by following the perfect example of his McNamara, [email protected]. ‘Go to Our Lady’ the program for the past nine years. The mother, the Blessed Virgin Mary. • Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish, A tragedy calling for deep faith and space did accommodate more women. But This is achieved through candlelit Indianapolis; next event is on Feb. 6, prayer struck the lives of Winkle and the school is not attached to the church, dinners with inspirational speakers, 2020 (tentative). For more information, Schutzman again, this time involving and “the Mary’s WAY committee believes prayer, fellowship and service to others. contact Bridget Bain, bridget.bain@ Teresa’s daughter, Brigette Schutzman. that going into the church with the guests The organization has 19 chapters gmail.com. Then a sophomore at St. Louis to pray a decade of the rosary before the at parishes in Illinois, Indiana, North • St. Jude Parish, Indianapolis; next University in St. Louis, Brigette was Blessed Sacrament is a very important Carolina and Ohio, including seven event is on May 7, 2020. For more traveling to Illinois on Dec. 31, 2007, part of our evening.” parishes within the archdiocese. information, contact Mary Ellen Henn, when her car lost control on an icy road This underscores a point that Winkle Stephanie Engelman, a member [email protected], or Barbara and was struck by another vehicle. She emphasizes to anyone interested in of St. Luke the Evangelist Parish Fahringer, [email protected]. was given a 1 percent chance of survival. adopting Mary’s WAY at their parish. in Indianapolis, has attended many • St. Luke the Evangelist Parish, But with the help of many “prayer While leaders should adhere to the core Mary’s WAY dinners at different Indianapolis; next event date is on warriors,” survive she did. elements and spirit of the program, they parishes for several years, and is Oct. 15, 2020 (tentative). For more “I’m alive, I can walk, and I am so also are encouraged to tailor it to what “impressed how each parish brings information, contact Teresa Schutzman, grateful,” the 31-year-old parishioner of works best for their individual parish. its own unique flair to the events, [email protected]. St. Luke told The Criterion in her parish’s “Mary’s WAY events are all similar, while remaining focused on the goal: • St. Malachy Parish, Brownsburg; school gymnasium on Oct. 24 as she waited yet they have a different flavor at every bringing together like-minded women next event date is in 2020, typically the for a Mary’s WAY event there to begin. place,” Winkle said. to support them as they strive to say third Thursday in November. For more Her mother was present, too, and both “But everywhere, the objective is the ‘Yes!’ to the call to follow Mary’s information, contact Nancy Sangl, listened as that evening’s speaker, Gayle same: to remind women that they are example.” [email protected]. Bischel of Harrison, Ohio, shared her own beloved daughters of God, and that they Following are the parishes with an • St. Mark the Evangelist Parish, story of faith. can look to the Blessed Mother to relate active Mary’s WAY chapter, plus contact Indianapolis; next event is on May 13, Bischel’s daughter was just 20 months to every aspect of their life.” and event information (if available): 2020. For more information, contact old when the toddler was killed in a tragic • All Saints Parish, Dearborn the parish office at 317-787-8246. accident. Although the loss was unbearable, (For more information about County; next event is on Oct. 20, 2020. For information on other Bischel said, she and her family found that Mary’s WAY, including locations and For more information, contact Debbie Mary’s WAY chapters, go to www. “complete surrender” to “God’s divine guidelines for starting a chapter, go to Yeager, [email protected]. mymarysway.com. † providence” was the only way to solace. www.mymarysway.com.) † Page 10 The Criterion Friday, December 6, 2019

couldn’t imagine CRÈCHES people giving continued from page 1 them away or them getting split up.” to love getting out the Nativity scene at So began what Christmas and seeing the big Nativity Larry calls the scenes at church,” says Larry. couple’s “mission to The collection he and Amy have save” Nativity sets. accumulated “kind of started when I wanted to replace the figures from the ‘Something was set we had that my dad made when I was telling us to keep growing up,” he explains. going’ It was 2016. He’d searched high and They shopped low for figurines similar to the ones in thrift stores in he grew up with. Having no luck, he nearby towns. purchased wooden ones carved by hand at “It got to be a a shop in Oldenburg. kind of competition But he continued his thrift shop search between us who for other items to add to the stable his could find more,” father had made more than 50 years prior. says Amy, looking About two weeks after visiting with a playful grin Oldenburg, the Higdons were at a at her husband. Goodwill store. “We bought “I saw these three camels with wise 15 in one day,” men,” he says, pointing toward the top of she says, shaking Larry Higdon discusses the wind-up mechanism on one of the approximately 1,000 crèches and other Nativity-related items he a cabinet adorned by the figures. “They’re her head at their and his wife Amy, pictured at left, have collected and display in their barn through the month of December. (Photos by Natalie Hoefer) the ones who started it all. I felt bad just exuberance. leaving them there. Larry recounts the couple stopping for the same day at a Goodwill in Greenwood. the girls now complain a bit when it “When I was growing up, [crèches] lunch and admitting, “We’ve got to stop Another time, Amy saw a yard full comes to helping set up the Nativity were sacred. We had them blessed. I just doing this. It’s expensive, and we have no of “free stuff.” She stopped and found a display. place to display them. We’ve had fun, and large Nativity set. “But deep down, they honestly do we hate to do it, but we need to quit.” Like the statue by the side of the road, enjoy it,” he says. But as Larry pulled out of their parking some of the Nativities need a little tender So do he and Amy. space at the restaurant, he says Amy called care. “When we’re unwrapping them, we’ll out in amazement, “Is that St. Joseph?” “We’ve got a complete hospital kit with say, ‘Oh, do you remember when we got Larry drove around the block, returned glue, string, tape. We call Larry, this one?’ Some are complete sets that we to the scene and there, propped against a ‘Dr. Higdon,’ ” Amy says in a humorous got for just $1.99,” says Amy. metal utility case, was a statue of Joseph tone. As the Higdons walk amid the rows and Mary with the Christ Child in a Larry nods with a grin. of crèches large and small, they pause to manger. Mary’s arms and one of Joseph’s “She’ll call me to do something, ponder if their collecting crèches is a hobby, arms were missing, all the more reason and I’ll say, ‘I’m in here with a patient a passion, an obsession or something else. for the Higdons to save the statue. performing a critical surgery—I can’t “It’s madness,” says Larry, who “We didn’t know what to make of just leave my patient,’ ” he says, the two nevertheless calls the display “a barn-ful it,” says Amy. “We’d just talked about laughing at their inside joke. of awesomeness.” quitting, then here’s this statue just sitting But laying out the crèches is serious But with more reflection, he again states by the side of the road like someone business. that “something is driving this. We don’t wanted it to be found. We were like, ‘Is “It takes about three weeks if you do it know what, and we may never know why. this a sign? What does this mean?’ ” right,” Larry explains. “But it’s brought us so much enjoyment. Larry’s youngest sister, Pam Brooks, The staging process begins in late And we get to share it with others.” had passed away in 2015, the year before October or early November with help Memorializing Christ’s birth, spreading the Nativity hunt began. Pam loved from Larry’s four granddaughters, whom joy. The Higdon’s have not just saved Christmas. the couple adopted 11 years ago. Nativity sets—they have collected and “It felt like something was telling us “We were married on July 30, 2008,” now share the spirit of Christmas. to keep going,” he says. “I think she is says Amy. The couple became guardians This statue of the Blessed Mother, St. Joseph driving this [mission].” of the girls—then ages 2, 3, 4 and 5—just (The Higdons welcome visitors to come and the Christ Child was found by Larry and three days later. The adoption process was view their collection free of charge from Amy Higdon along the side of the road—just ‘So much enjoyment, and we get to completed in 2011. 1-8 p.m. on Dec. 7 and 14, and from after the couple had discussed ceasing their share it’ Larry recalls someone telling him, 3-8 p.m. on Dec. 8 in their barn at search for crèches and Nativity-related items. Unusual Nativity sightings kept “You realize one day you’re going to have 209 W. Burnside Ave., in Fairland. Despite several missing arms, the statue is occurring. The couple found a unique a 13-year-old, 14-year-old, 15-year-old The collection can also be viewed by proudly displayed among the Higdon’s roughly Joseph and Jesus at a Goodwill in and 16-year-old all at the same time?” appointment on weekdays by calling 1,000 Nativity sets, statues, trinkets and more. Columbus, then found the matching Mary That time has come, and Larry admits Larry Higdon at 317-509-9284.) †

“It is my hope that this custom will plays like every other child! As always, newborn Jesus, are reminders that “the POPE never be lost and that, wherever it has God baffles us. He is unpredictable, humble and the poor” are the first to continued from page 1 fallen into disuse, it can be rediscovered constantly doing what we least expect,” welcome the good news, the pope said. and revived,” the pope said. Pope Francis wrote. “The Nativity scene “In a particular way, from the time of its St. Francis of Assisi set up the first At the heart of even the simplest shows God as he came into our world, but Franciscan origins, the Nativity scene has Nativity scene in 1223. Nativity scene, he said, there is a reminder it also makes us reflect on how our life invited us to ‘feel’ and ‘touch’ the poverty When St. Francis had a cave prepared of “God”s tender love: the Creator of the is part of God’s own life. It invites us to that God’s Son took upon himself in the with a hay-filled manger, an ox and a universe lowered himself to take up our become his disciples if we want to attain incarnation.” donkey—no statues or actors or baby, littleness.” ultimate meaning in life.” That, in turn, calls Jesus’ disciples “to even—he “carried out a great work of Then, he said, there is the fact that Knowing that some families keep to follow him along the path of humility, evangelization,” Pope Francis said, and this baby is “the source and sustenance the essential characters and setting while poverty and self-denial that leads from the Catholics can and must continue that of all life. In Jesus, the Father has given others add all sorts of characters and manger of Bethlehem to the cross,” the work today. us a brother who comes to seek us out buildings and streams and towns, Pope pope wrote. “It asks us to meet him and “With this letter,” he wrote, “I wish to whenever we are confused or lost, a loyal Francis said even “fanciful additions show serve him by showing mercy to those of encourage the beautiful family tradition of friend ever at our side. He gave us his Son that in the new world inaugurated by our brothers and sisters in greatest need. preparing the Nativity scene in the days who forgives us and frees us from our Jesus there is room for whatever is truly “Jesus, ‘gentle and humble in heart,’ before Christmas, but also the custom of sins.” human and for all God’s creatures.” was born in poverty and led a simple life setting it up in the workplace, in schools, The magic of the season goes deep But he focused in the letter on some in order to teach us to recognize what is hospitals, prisons and town squares. when someone—child or adult—gazes key elements, starting with the starry essential and to act accordingly,” he said. upon a Nativity night, the simplicity of the stable and the Mary is a model of discipleship, scene, he said. And poverty of the shepherds. faithfully accepting God’s will for her life whether or not they Giving the Nativity scene a nighttime and sharing him with others, inviting them can put what they backdrop, he said, respects the Gospel to obey him. Joseph, too, accepts the role experience into account of Jesus’ birth, but also serves God assigned him, protecting the baby words, they come to remind people of times when they’ve Jesus, teaching him and raising him. away knowing that experienced darkness. The crèche, he said, And, of course, the pope wrote, “when, “God’s ways are says, “Even then, God does not abandon at Christmas, we place the statue of the astonishing, for it us, but is there to answer our crucial Infant Jesus in the manger, the Nativity seems impossible questions about the meaning of life. Who scene suddenly comes alive. God appears that he should am I? Where do I come from? Why was as a child, for us to take into our arms.” forsake his glory to I born at this time in history? Why do I The whole scene, he said, reminds become a man like love? Why do I suffer? Why will I die? adult Catholics of their childhood and of us. “It was to answer these questions learning the faith from their parents and “To our that God became man,” the pope wrote. grandparents. Each year, it should be a astonishment, we see “His closeness brings light where there reminder that the faith needs to be passed God acting exactly is darkness and shows the way to those on to one’s children and grandchildren. Franciscans and others pose with Pope Francis after a visit to the Nativity as we do: He sleeps, dwelling in the shadow of suffering.” Standing together before a Nativity scene of Greccio, Italy, on Dec. 1. The first Nativity scene was assembled in takes milk from his The simple shepherds, who were scene, in wonder and awe, he said, is a Greccio by St. Francis of Assisi in 1223. (CNS photo/Vatican Media) mother, cries and the first to go to the stable to see the simple way to start. † The Criterion Friday, December 6, 2019 Page 11

A supplement to Catholic newspapers published by Catholic News Service, 3211 Fourth Street, N.E., Washington, D.C. 20017-1100. All contents are copyrighted © 2019 by FaithAlive! Catholic News Service. Like a prophet, John the Baptist preached the coming of the Messiah

By David Gibson comes,” the Lord says in the Old Testament Book of Malachi (Mal 3:23). The story of St. John the Baptist really Some speculate that people were begins when he ... But wait! His story is inclined to think Elijah could return multifaceted in ways that history often because they were not certain he actually overlooks. How should it start? died. Scripture declares that Elijah “went It typically starts today with John up to heaven in a whirlwind” (2 Kgs 2:11). preaching to crowds who came to the According to Scripture, Elijah dressed Judean desert to hear him and receive in a “hairy garment” and wore “a his baptism. Perhaps, though, its starting leather belt about his waist” (2 Kgs 1:8). point could be located in earlier times, Similarly, John the Baptist “wore clothing when Israel was younger and its people made of camel’s hair and had a leather began to anticipate the future work of belt around his waist” (Mt 3:4). Did this someone like John. austere appearance of John remind many A belief developed in Israel that of Elijah, causing them to wonder if the somehow the rather ancient prophet Elijah moment of his return had arrived? would return one day to announce the John would serve “in the spirit and coming of God’s kingdom, serving as power of Elijah,” St. Luke’s Gospel a forerunner to the Messiah by helping affirms (Lk 1:17). prepare the people for his arrival. To begin John the Baptist’s story, might Belief that there is just one God came it help to ask why the first Christians under threat in Israel during Elijah’s time. went to such lengths to keep the memory There would be good reason to esteem of him alive? Scripture mentions him Elijah’s legacy as a prophet of the one, numerous times. true God. Did the Gospel writers convey his “I am sending to you Elijah the story to future generations simply due to prophet, before the day of the Lord a role he had, the function fulfilled by announcing in the desert that the one coming after him, Jesus Christ, would be “mightier than I,” someone whose sandals he would not be worthy to carry (Mt 3:11), and by calling all to live justly (Lk 3:10-14)? That was a role of great distinction. Still, it seems that for early Christians John was remarkable both in what he did and who he was at a key time in their history. Some today may know John the Baptist best for his violent and unjust execution, depicted in films and opera. Herod’s wife Herodias bore a grudge against John for considering the king’s marriage to her unlawful. Herod acceded on one occasion to her wish that he have John beheaded. Her wish was communicated to Herod by Herodias’ daughter, infamously known to history as Salome. Scripture says John’s head was brought to the girl on a platter (Mt 14:6-11). But surely it is less Christ’s baptism by John the Baptist in the Jordan River is depicted in a stained-glass window at with his execution than St. Francis of Assisi Church in Greenlawn, N.Y. To hear John the Baptist is to hear the “voice of one his birth that John the crying out in the desert, ‘Prepare the way of the Lord’ ” (Mt 3:3). (CNS photo/Gregory A. Shemitz, Baptist’s story should Long Island Catholic) begin. In welcoming their child’s birth, his parents, “will be great and will be called Son of the earliest Christians on the first Pentecost. Elizabeth and Zechariah, Most High” (Lk 1:30-33). Notably, Luke’s The Spirit is viewed in Acts as must have sensed that Gospel says that Elizabeth and Mary were powerful, a unifying force enabling his future promised relatives (Lk 1:36). the many gathered in Jerusalem at something wonderful. Gabriel announced John’s coming birth that moment, from different areas, to John was touched by God to Zechariah. He and Elizabeth, an older understand each other, even though they from the start. couple, had no children. They hardly did not know each other’s languages. The announcement of could imagine this news. To be filled with the Spirit was, for John’s coming birth appears “Many will rejoice” over this child’s Luke, an amazing gift of God. at the beginning of Luke’s birth, said Gabriel. He “will be filled with In the Gospel of St. Matthew (Mt Gospel. And guess who the Holy Spirit even from his mother’s 3:3), words of the Hebrew prophet Isaiah makes the announcement? womb, and he will turn many of the are applied to John the Baptist directly, It is the angel Gabriel, children of Israel to the Lord” (Lk 1:15-16). clarifying why today he is considered a always remembered by It must have been no small thing for model for Christians during the Advent Christians as the one who Luke to speak of the Spirit’s presence weeks preceding Christmas. bore the news to Mary that in John the Baptist’s life and work. Thus, to hear him is to hear the “voice Elijah is depicted in a stained-glass window at St. Bernard Church she would become, most Luke also is recognized as the author of of one crying out in the desert, ‘Prepare in Madison, Wis. According to Scripture, Elijah dressed in “a hairy surprisingly, the mother of a second New Testament volume, the the way of the Lord’ ” (Mt 3:3). garment” and wore “a leather belt about his waist” (2 Kgs 1:8). Jesus. Acts of the Apostles. Its opening pages Similarly, John the Baptist “wore clothing made of camel’s hair and The angel tells Mary in describe how the Spirit, “like a strong (David Gibson served on Catholic News had a leather belt around his waist” (Mt 3:4). (CNS photo/Crosiers) Luke’s Gospel that Jesus driving wind” (Acts 2:2), came to the Service’s editorial staff for 37 years.) † Page 12 The Criterion Friday, December 6, 2019 Perspectives For the Journey/Effie Caldarola The Theology of Technology/ Allow God to be born in you and from you during Advent Brett Robinson It was a chilly March night in a small Advent is the beginning. Advent is brimming with religious sisters and Child’s impending Midwestern town. Maybe it was windy, joyful expectation, when you accept employed two full-time priests. Most because in my memory the Great Plains that miracles happen, when you grasp of them were young and very kind to arrival a reminder are always windy. what it means when we say we believe me. They drew from me, slowly and in I had a room-and- “in things seen and unseen.” Mostly, embryonic stages, a new spirituality. They of Advent, waiting board arrangement in Advent is the time when we accept Jesus. too were in the midst of change, growth the tiny upstairs of an What’s the point of this crazy season, this and uncertainty in the turbulent wake of My wife and I are expecting our fifth old woman’s house. preparation, if we don’t think that this Vatican II. Nevertheless, they introduced child in February. It’s been six years since She was sweet, but Jesus whose birth we celebrate was the me to a Jesus I had never really met. we had a newborn in the house, so there bordering on senility. best thing that ever happened? What does So, on a night in March, as the school are some things we She was probably it all mean if we’re not waiting for him? year labored on, I surrendered. I discarded need to relearn about lonely and wanted my I had grown up Catholic on this side my faltering agnosticism and, in some life with a baby. Most company, but I didn’t of the Second Vatican Council. But in kind of act of faith whose words I no pressing perhaps is the particularly enjoy hers the rural area where I lived, Vatican II longer remember, I accepted Jesus. role that technology and, at least initially, wished I could be hadn’t yet taken root. My childhood I’m much older now. I’m not sure will play in our family anywhere else. image of God was frightening. Yes, how well I’ve gotten to know this Jesus. life when the new I had graduated from a Jesuit university God was loving, but he had a brutal hell I have friends who talk about casual baby arrives. the spring before and narrowly missed prepared for transgressors. My childhood conversations with him, but I often Six years ago, out on a teaching job in a large Catholic confessions were full of angst, guilt, find myself sitting like a shy student in our kids were much school in the city. That was where I unhappiness. his classroom. Or like the character in younger. We had a wanted to be. But I needed a job, and This was long before the Internet, and Flannery O’Connor’s Wise Blood, seeing newborn and three kids under 8. Nobody this small town Catholic school needed I realize now how woefully limited was Jesus dart from tree to tree, “a wild looked at phones or played on tablets. They an English and history teacher. So, here I my Catholic catechesis. So, when I got ragged figure” in the back of my mind. just weren’t part of our daily routine. Now was, seemingly at Earth’s end. to college, I soaked in diverse ideas. I Nevertheless, despite me he’s been we have a teenager who uses the computer Advent began for me in that small remember, as a 17-year-old freshman, faithful. Meister Eckhart, the medieval for research and has his own Kindle for upstairs bedroom. You might wonder what being struck by James Joyce’s description mystic, said, “We are all meant to be reading and games. Our younger children a windy, lonely night in March has to do of the Irish as “an unfortunate priest- mothers of God ... for God is always are granted screen time after homeschooling with Advent. Advent, I think, can be more ridden race.” needing to be born.” May God be born in is over so that my wife can catch her breath. than the few weeks before the feast of I left college thinking I must be and from each of us this Advent. My oldest son never had regular Christmas, more than a liturgical season, agnostic but, remembering those images screen time, and he is now an although of course it’s all of that, too. of hell, I kept going to Mass just in case. (Effie Caldarola writes for Catholic News incredible pianist and artist who loves Advent can be an idea born of hope. This small town Catholic school was Service.) † woodworking and metalsmithing. He is a digital native in the alternative sense. He uses his digits, his fingers, to create It’s All Good/Patti Lamb beautiful things that give him satisfaction and pleasure. His music fills the house and his art hangs on the walls, allowing the rest of us to Please God by using your gifts and strengths to serve him share in that pleasure. I’d forgotten how difficult it is to be a This year, Margaret presented me musician named Dave Grohl, and I shared Our other children have thankfully middle school girl until recently. with her Christmas wish list in the form it with Margaret. followed suit by developing various My daughter is 12, and she’s reminded of a PowerPoint presentation, complete “No one is you and that is your artistic and athletic interests, which are me that navigating the with slides of fashion models wearing power.” entirely analog experiences. But you can uncharted waters of the items she’s requesting. This is quite She looked at me like I had three heads see a difference among the ones who grew adolescence isn’t easy. a switch from wish lists of the past that and my hair was blazing on each of them. up with more screen time. They are less Margaret shares contained baseball cards, football jerseys I explained to my daughter that God tolerant of being bored. stories about the girl and basketball shoes. intricately fashioned each one of us As many others have pointed out, drama du jour, and Each slide carefully specified name uniquely, and that we are called to serve boredom is the seedbed of creativity. If provides updates that brands at expensive price points. him in our own way, in our own place, in you don’t allow a space for boredom, are meaningful in her “Am I to pick one item from this entire our own time. the interior life of reflection, silence and world. I’ll change the presentation since that’s more in line with And that cannot happen if we’re all creativity has less room to grow. names as I provide our budget?” I asked. trying to live the same life and keep up This sounds counterintuitive and maybe an example of a daily “Mom!” she exclaimed. “Cecilia has, with others and their business. a little cruel. As a parent, it’s hard to tell rundown. like, three pairs of those shoes, all in I’d like to thank you, Margaret, for the a child that their misery (their word, not “Annie was invited to sit at the popular different colors,” she informed me. reminder that we are called to be our own mine) is good for the soul. Pascal said that girls’ table today at lunch,” Margaret I suppose it’s worse these days with the best selves—not imitations of someone else. the source of man’s misery is our inability explains, as she walks in the door, her Internet and cell phones, but marketers “You formed my inmost being; you to sit quietly in a room alone. In a world of phone pinging with text notifications. are colluding and there is definitely a knit me in my mother’s womb. I praise constant activity and productivity, it is no “Oh, and Kate got the newest phone “cool kid” wish list circulating out there. you, because I am wonderfully made; small act of rebellion to try and sit quietly before it was even released to stores,” she Tweens and teens are desperate to secure Wonderful are your works” (Ps 139:13-14). in a room alone. notes, “but I don’t think she and Erin are these items so they can all show up to My daughter has encouraged me to Pope Pius XII said that society’s stress best friends anymore because they didn’t school in January dressed entirely alike. embrace this truth, and recognize that on material progress has upset the balance talk to each other in choir class,” she I know I used to be in Margaret’s we please God by using our unique gifts and harmony of man. He cautioned that adds. shoes, and to some extent, I still am. and strengths to serve him. Glorifying someone who grows up in an atmosphere I don’t remember too much from But it’s morphed from overconcern with God might look different and far less that is centered on technology will middle school. I think I’ve mentally trendy clothes to other areas of life. Now I impressive than we originally thought. “inevitably discover that one whole part blocked out the majority of those days spend too much time foolishly comparing But when we seek to please him with a of his make-up ... is missing.” since they contained neither my proudest my job title and my graying hair with my sincere heart, wonderful things happen. The ability to think, judge and act moments, nor my best fashion choices. 40-something peers. in ways that are most fully human can Adolescence is a time of growing into I think we all play the “comparison” (Patti Lamb, a member of St. Susanna be lost in a technological environment yourself and bridging the gap between game at some point. Parish in Plainfield, is a regular columnist that favors particular ways of thinking, being a kid and being a “grown up.” I stumbled upon a quote I like by a for The Criterion.) † judging and acting that reflect the logic of the machines around us. We are expected to do things very Seeking Life/Moises Sandoval quickly. A text message that is not answered instantaneously is seen as a slight. A work Tuning in to our souls and nourishing them for our mission e-mail that is not responded to immediately is viewed as a lack of productivity. We live Timothy Egan, a New York Times opinion Some years ago, I had a small I went because I remembered how in an environment dictated by speed. There writer, recently wrote: “We are spiritual investment account managed by a broker important it had been to receive visitors is an implicit preference for that which gets beings. But for most of us, malnutrition of named Phil Genusa, whom I called when I had been gravely ill. Moreover, we things done faster. the soul is a plague of every once in a while for advice and had been friends for decades and worked We are a couple months away from the modern life. That is reassurance. But one day a strange voice together in many conservation projects. birth of our son. We can’t wait for his arrival, one reason 200 million answered the phone and said: “Phil is no He died three days after I saw him. but we know God’s careful work of creation people worldwide a longer with the firm.” Similarly, we feel drawn to the takes time. It’s not the schedule we would year make some sort of “What happened?” I asked. “Did he cemeteries where our loved ones lie. On pick, but that is partly due to the artificial religious pilgrimage.” retire? Get sick? Go to another firm?” the same trip west, I wanted to visit the expectations fostered by our environment. So, he made one A long pause followed and then he said: graves of my mother and father in the We are so thankful this waiting coincides himself, looking for “No, he died.” Denver suburb of Brighton, where most of with Advent because it helps remind us of “something durable: a Death is all around us. We sense it in us grew up. My thinking was that it might the patient waiting that God has ordained stiff shot of no-nonsense the passing of the seasons, the waning be the last time we would be able to do it. for all of creation. The Savior is not Siri. He spirituality.” light of autumn, the growing chill in In tune with the season’s messages, the does not obey our commands like our other To affirm that we are spiritual is to the air, our weakening limbs no longer liturgy annually celebrates two feasts, All technological genies. It is our obedience to acknowledge that we have a soul. And capable of the effortless miles we walked. Saints’ Day on Nov. 1, and All Souls’ Day God that brings us back into harmony with to go on pilgrimage denotes seeking Recently, while spending a few days in on Nov. 2, in Mexico called the Day of Christ in the midst of so much “progress.” its nourishment where past generations our vacation home in New Mexico, one the Dead, a national holiday. The festival worshipped, struggled and died. The of our neighbors, Sonia Berg, informed harks to the ancient traditions of pre- (Brett Robinson is director of process leads us to think about our us that her husband was dying of cancer Columbian cultures, observed for 2,500- communications and Catholic media own death, unmentionable in our crass, in hospice at home. She said her husband, 3,000 years. Similar observances occur in studies at the University of Notre Dame materialistic society. Adam, still enjoyed having visitors. See SANDOVAL, page 14 McGrath Institute for Church Life.) † The Criterion Friday, December 6, 2019 Page 13

Second Sunday of Advent/Msgr. Owen F. Campion Daily Readings The Sunday Readings Monday, December 9 Friday, December 13 Sunday, December 8, 2019 The Immaculate Conception of St. Lucy, virgin and martyr the Blessed Virgin Mary Isaiah 48:17-19 • Isaiah 11:1-10 Genesis 3:9-15, 20 Psalm 1:1-4, 6 • Romans 15:4-9 Psalm 98:1-4 Matthew 11:16-19 • Matthew 3:1-12 Ephesians 1:3-6, 11-12 Luke 1:26-38 Saturday, December 14 Indicating the importance of Advent From the earliest days of Christianity, St. John of the Cross, priest and the message of these readings, the John the Baptist has been a favorite figure. Tuesday, December 10 and doctor of the Church Church this weekend celebrates the His absolute commitment to the all- Second Sunday of encompassing majesty of God’s perfect Isaiah 40:1-11 Sirach 48:1-4, 9-11 Advent, rather than order has made him a paragon of devotion. Psalm 96:1-3, 10-13 Psalm 80:2-3, 15-16, 18-19 the great Solemnity John was clearly on a mission. Matthew 18:12-14 Matthew 17:9a, 10-13 of the Immaculate Testimony to this is plentiful in the New Conception of the Testament. Travel in ancient Palestine Wednesday, December 11 Sunday, December 15 Blessed Virgin Mary. was understandably rare. It was very (This feast will occur difficult and time-consuming. It was St. Damasus I, pope Third Sunday of Advent this year on Dec. 9.) unpredictable and risky. Very few would Isaiah 40:25-31 Isaiah 35:1-6a, 10 This weekend’s ever have traveled for diversion or leisure. Psalm 103:1-4, 8, 10 Psalm 146:6-10 first reading is from That John journeyed far and wide Matthew 11:28-30 James 5:7-10 Isaiah. The prophet evidenced his sense of mission, and he Matthew 11:2-11 was unhappy with the turn of events of encountered many people. Thursday, December 12 his time. As was so often the case with John was not hesitant or vague in the ancient Hebrew prophets, Isaiah saw confronting sin. He chastised his listeners, Our Lady of Guadalupe the misfortunes facing his people as the in effect, for their differences of opinion. Zechariah 2:14-17 result of their own disloyalty to God. Self-interest drove them too much. or Revelation 11:19a; 12:1-6a, His words, however, were neither Their lack of obedience to God only 10ab menacing nor hostile. Rather, they were strengthened the reign of sin in the land. (Response) Judith 13:18bc, 19 reassuring. They declared the prophet’s Thus, their personal failings contributed firm belief that, despite the sins of the to the burdens weighing heavily upon the Luke 1:26-38 people, God would not forsake them. entire society. or Luke 1:39-47 Furthermore, in due time, God’s holy Understandably, he challenged the will would be vindicated. Wrongs would people to purge themselves of this self- be righted. Errors would be corrected. interest and sin and humbly to turn to God. Justice and peace would prevail. Question Corner/Fr. Kenneth Doyle St. Paul’s Epistle to the Romans Reflection supplies the second reading. In this Throughout Advent, the Church calls Low-gluten hosts are available for reading, St. Paul repeats the basic us to receive God in our hearts. The message given earlier by Isaiah. It is a Lord’s coming at Christmas reveals to us people suffering from celiac disease testimony to God’s love. Throughout the entry of God into human life. history, St. Paul maintains, God guided It frankly places before us our own sins More and more people are being I cannot speak regarding your specific the chosen people to righteousness and the sins of all humanity. John himself Qdiagnosed with celiac or wheat Apetition for a declaration of nullity and ultimately to union with him. Paul was stark and direct, absolutely and allergies. Because (commonly known as an annulment) since sees God as the source of all patience completely committed to God. His words of the particle of the I know only what you have told me in your and encouragement. Human failings are sharp and unequivocal. In like manner, host that is placed question about your previous marriage. notwithstanding, God’s love is constant. for our own good, the Church calls us to a into the celebrant’s In the Catholic Church’s view, The Apostle also counsels the thorough examination of conscience. chalice right before adultery itself is not a valid reason for an Christian Romans to accept each other in Using the very words and example Communion, someone annulment. For an annulment, one must be love and good will. After all, he insists, of John the Baptist, the Church bluntly who is gluten- able to go back to the start of the marriage Christ accepted them. Christ was the urges us to put first things first. Following intolerant cannot and be able to show either that the couple visible and effective instrument on Earth worldly self-interests will lead nowhere— receive the precious was prohibited from marrying by the laws of God’s goodness, the model for all certainly not to God. blood from that of the Church, or that the consent of one or human behavior. Advent’s purpose is not just to plan chalice. What is your both of the spouses was invalid. For its third reading, the Church for a memorial of Christ’s birth. It suggestion? (Missouri) Some common grounds for that lack offers us a passage from the Gospel of primarily calls us to make our hearts of consent (from the website of the St. Matthew. The central figure is fitting dwelling places for the Lord. To be It is true that celiac disease is now Diocese of Rochester, N.Y.) are: “inability St. John the Baptist, mentioned in such fitting dwelling places, we must rid Amore prevalent than had earlier been to assume the essential obligations of St. Luke as the child of Elizabeth and ourselves of sin. It is that simple. realized. (This disease is an immune marriage for psychological reasons,” or Zachariah. Elizabeth was a kinswoman Isaiah and Paul remind us that God reaction to eating gluten and can damage “willful exclusion of essential elements or (probably a cousin) of Mary. Therefore, will empower us in our quest for holiness. the lining of the small intestine.) A Mayo properties of marriage, such as children, John was related to Jesus. God wants us to live. He loves us. † Clinic study in 2012 estimated that some fidelity or permanence.” 1.8 million Americans suffer from this So, while the fact of adultery itself does disease. not render a marriage invalid, it is possible My Journey to God For most of those so afflicted, that infidelity could offer evidence that low-gluten Communion hosts provide one or both of the spouses had not entered a solution. The parish from which I the marriage with the proper commitment recently retired purchased these hosts required for a valid marriage to come into SILENCE from the Benedictine Sisters of Perpetual existence. Practically speaking, I would Adoration in Missouri. think that the sooner into the marriage the By M. Lynell Chamberlain Dr. Alessio Fasano, then the director adultery took place, the easier it might be of the Center for Celiac Research at the to show a lack of proper commitment at University of Maryland, had estimated the outset. I stand in the silence of the new fallen snow, in 2004 that the percentage of gluten in One of the Church’s grounds in the Nothin’ to hear but the cries of my soul. these hosts was so remote that someone Code of Canon Law for annulment Searching for God in the stillness so pure, who suffered from celiac disease would is “error concerning the unity ... of Knowing he’s here, but not quite sure have to consume 270 of them daily before marriage” (#1099). As the Archdiocese How to express myself to Ultimate Truth, reaching the danger point. of Atlanta explains on its website, some Stammering and shaking as if I need proof. To accommodate victims of celiac questions to be raised are these: “At But I feel more than see his presence here, disease who wish to receive the precious the time of marriage, did either you or Drawing me close and pulling me near blood, the U.S. Conference of Catholic your former spouse believe that it was To a love so immense, so deep and sincere Bishops recommended in their 2016 acceptable to have other sexual partners That I forget what it was I thought to fear newsletter on divine worship that after marriage? Was there anything in the As I stand in the silence of the new fallen snow, a separate small chalice of wine be family background to explain the belief With nothin’ to hear but the joy in my soul. consecrated that would not be a part of the that marriage was not an exclusive (totally commingling rite. (At the commingling rite faithful) relationship?” in the Mass, just before the Lamb of God And so, I would say to the writer of our (M. Lynell Chamberlain is a prayer, the priest places a small particle question: If you simply offered the fact of member of St. John Paul II Parish of the host into his chalice as a sign of the your spouse’s adultery in petitioning for an in Sellersburg. Photo: Snow falls mingling of Christ’s body and blood.) annulment, I understand why it was denied. on March 3, 2014, on a statue But if you can go back to the very time of Mary and the Christ Child in I had a petition for an annulment of of the marriage ceremony and show that Mary’s Garden on the grounds of Qa previous marriage denied, and I your spouse lacked the requisite consent to the Basilica of the National Shrine don’t understand why since my previous exclusivity, you might want to re-submit the of the Immaculate Conception in spouse committed adultery during our case to your diocesan tribunal. Washington.) (CNS photo /Bob Roller) marriage. Can you help me understand this? (Georgia) (Questions may be sent to Father Kenneth Doyle at [email protected] and 30 Columbia Circle Dr., Albany, New York Page 14 The Criterion Friday, December 6, 2019

Rest in peace Please submit in writing to our office by 10 a.m. Thursday before the week of publication; be sure to state date of death. Obituaries of archdiocesan priests serving our archdiocese are listed elsewhere in The Criterion. Order priests and religious sisters and brothers are included here, unless they are natives of the archdiocese or have other connections­ to it; those are separate obituaries on this page. BEDEL, Thelma A., 90, Densborn, Peggy Garcia, Vicki St. Mary, Greensburg, Nov. 21. Joslin, Annette Pollert, Kathy Mother of Annette Faust, Rose Wehmiller, Jeff, John and Tim Remmler, Margie Williams, Maschino. Sister of Clarence, Vernon and Victor Bedel. Gilbert and Melvin Vogel. Grandmother of 11. Great- Grandmother of 24. Great- grandmother of eight. grandmother of five. BROWN, Norman D., 94, MCMAHON, Tom, 55, Prince of Peace, Madison, St. Jude, Indianapolis, Nov. 21. Husband of JoAnn Nov. 10. Husband of Patsy Brown. Father of Gary Brown. McMahon. Father of Annie Brother of Robert Brown. Bowers, Jeremiah, Joe and Grandfather of three. Great- Tim O’Connor. Brother of grandfather of five. Kelle Hall, Gerard, Jeff, Larry, DEVINE, Patrick J., 89, Pat and Robert McMahon, Jr. St. Lawrence, Indianapolis, Grandfather of 11. Nov. 16. Husband of Maria MILLER, Jean M. (Miller), Devine. Uncle and great-uncle 59, St. Jude, Indianapolis, of several. Nov. 12. Wife of Gary Miller. FISCHER, Anthony, 87, Mother of Benjamin and St. Paul, Tell City, Nov. 19. Jerry Miller. Sister of Camilla Husband of Wilma Fischer. Mautzy, Laura Simmons, Father of Jill Bates, Kerri Edith, Mark, Matt and Richard Brinkman, Debbie Julian, Miller. Cindy Wahl and Raymond MISEK, Joel, 73, St. Pius X, Fischer. Brother of David Indianapolis, Nov. 12. Fischer. Grandfather of seven. Husband of Susan Misek. Vatican Christmas tree Great-grandfather of 11. Father of Sabrina Paxton A worker places a decorative ball as another snaps a photo during the decoration of the Christmas tree in St. Peter’s Square at the LANE, Theresa, 73, St. Mary, and Hether Wenger. Brother Vatican on Nov. 29. (CNS photo/Paul Haring) North Vernon, Oct. 13. Mother of Kathryn Carpenter. of Sara Skinner, Melissa Grandfather of two. Taylor and Tony Lane. Sister SCHILDMEIER, Mary, 94, Sharon Bischoff, Mary Jayne Michael Sopko. Brother of Lamb. Sister of Raymond Wernke. Grandfather of 14. of Barb Biehle, Carol Collins, Christ the King, Indianapolis, Cull, Sue Hartman, Theresa Thomas Sopko. Grandfather Heckman. Grandmother of six. Great-grandfather of 17. Louise Schlatterer, Leona Nov. 14. Sister of Kathleen Norman, Donna, Dale and of four. Great-grandmother of four. Schoettmer, Jerry, Jim and Kempinger. Aunt and great- WICKENS, John, 75, Lawrence Schuman. Uncle and SPRINGMEYER, Ruth M., WELSH, Joshua Alexander St. Mary, North Vernon, Thomas Matern. Grandmother aunt of several. great-uncle of several. of seven. 87, St. Mary, Greensburg, G., 15, All Saints, Dearborn Nov. 4. Husband of Reda SCHNEIDER, James C., 81, SCHUSTER, David P., 71, Nov. 24. Mother of Regina County, Nov. 16. Son of Wickens. Father of Scott Hall LEKENS, Frances L., 98, Holy Spirit, Indianapolis, St. Malachy, Brownsburg, Badgley, Dorothy Lecher, Jessica Welsh. Grandson of and Chad Wickens. Brother Holy Spirit, Indianapolis, Nov. 3. Father of Alyson Nov. 17. Husband of Mary Linda Meyer and Sharon Jerry and Susan Covert. Great- of Linda Vawter. Grandfather Nov. 11. Mother of Larry, Canto, Gregory, Jason Schuster. Father of Gregory Siefert. Sister of Joe Lambert. grandson of Doris Welsh. of three. Great-grandfather of Richard and Thomas Lekens. and Matthew Schneider. and Timothy Schuster. Brother Grandmother of 10. Great- two. Sister of Helen Heid. Grandfather of eight. WERNKE, Paul, 86, St. Mary, of Diane Bayer and Richard grandmother of four. North Vernon, Nov. 12. WILSON, Patricia A., 91, Grandmother of five. Great- SCHUMAN, David, 57, Schuster. grandmother of nine. THOMAS, Carolyn R. Husband of Kathryn Wernke. St. Jude, Indianapolis, All Saints, Dearborn County, SOPKO, Edward J., 84, (Heckman), 82, St. John Paul II, Father of Taryn Broadus, Nov. 2. Mother of Mark and MASCHINO, Dorene, 79, Nov. 20. Husband of Susan St. Malachy, Brownsburg, Sellersburg, Nov. 22. Mother Sandi Kirchner, JuneAnn Neal Bowlen. Grandmother St. Joseph, Jennings County, Schuman. Son of Joseph and Nov. 21. Husband of Regina of Cynthia Knopp, Nancy Rigney, Karol Speer, Dale and of two. Great-grandmother of Nov. 10. Mother of Amy Martha Schuman. Brother of Sopko. Father of James and O’Donoghue and Gordon Jim Wernke. Brother of Wanda six. † Most Americans support life in prison over death penalty, says new poll WASHINGTON (CNS)—Most Americans support life is just the second time more people said they thought life preferred life without parole as a punishment over the imprisonment over the death penalty, according to a Gallup in prison was a better punishment than the death penalty; death penalty. Only white evangelicals (59 percent) poll released on Nov. 24, revealing a shift in the majority in 2007, they did so by 1 percentage point, with and white mainline Protestants (52 percent) expressed opinion on this issue for the first time in 34 years. 48 percent favoring life in prison and 47 percent favoring majority support for the death penalty. The poll, based on results from telephone interviews the death penalty. Catholics in the 2014 survey were sharply divided conducted on Oct. 14-31 with a random sample of The current poll, with a margin of sampling error by race: Among white Catholics, 45 percent favored the 1,526 adults in the U.S., showed 60 percent prefer of plus or minus 3 percentage points, breaks down death penalty and 50 percent favored life in prison. In that convicted murders receive a sentence of life respondents by age, sex and party affiliation. Within these contrast, only 29 percent of Hispanic Catholics favored imprisonment, while 36 percent said capital punishment groups there were differing opinions: Women showed the death penalty while 62 percent said convicted would be better. stronger support for life in prison (66 percent) than men murderers should be given life imprisonment sentences. This view marks a shift in Americans’ opinion over the (53 percent). Younger people also were more likely to In an Oct. 10 roundtable discussion about the death past two decades. In the 1980s and 1990s, the majority show support for life in prison (68 percent) than older penalty with Catholic bishops, Archbishop Paul S. Coakley opinion leaned toward the death penalty. The survey also people (57 percent). Along party lines, 58 percent of of Oklahoma City said: “It’s really important for our Republicans supported the death penalty over 38 percent Catholic people to really dig into and learn, study, read the who said life in prison was the better option, and teachings of the magisterium of the Church” on this issue. 79 percent of Democrats preferred life in prison while He said with the popes—St. John Paul II and Popes Online Lay Ministry Formation 19 percent preferred the death penalty be administered. Benedict XVI and Francis—there has been “a steady The Archdiocese of Indianapolis has partnered with the Five years ago, the American Values Survey by movement toward a greater clarity in terms of the University of Notre Dame and Catholic Distance University the Public Religion Research Institute showed that morality and the inadmissibility of the death penalty.” (CDU) to offer not-for-credit online theology classes: 48 percent of Americans preferred life without parole as In August of 2018, Pope Francis ordered a revision of • Earn certificate in Lay Ministry the punishment for murder, and 44 percent preferred the the Catechism of the Catholic Church to assert “the death • Complete 12 courses online with ND STEP program death penalty. This poll revealed religious divides on the penalty is inadmissible because it is an attack on the • CDU offers classes on Catechism of the Catholic Church issue and showed that Catholics, Jews, members of other inviolability and dignity of the person,” and committed • 20% discount for all employees, volunteers, and parishioners non-Christian religions and the religiously unaffiliated the Church to working toward its abolition worldwide. † For more information, please log on to www.archindy.org/layministry Lucy, whose husband, Charlie Branch, died seven years SANDOVAL ago, senses his spirit nearby. continued from page 12 For years, my son Michael, a cook in Connecticut, REPORT SEXUAL MISCONDUCT NOW had been preoccupied with placing a proper stone on the If you are a victim of sexual misconduct by a person ministering on other Latin countries, many U.S. communities, and even grave of his grandfather, Harold Gartman, who died in behalf of the Church, or if you know of anyone who has been a victim in Australia. 1974 in Las Vegas, New Mexico, and was buried in Our of such misconduct, please contact the archdiocesan victim assistance Mexicans go to the cemeteries to be with the souls of Lady of Sorrows Parish cemetery. coordinator. There are two ways to make a report: the dead. They build altars containing their favorite foods Decades later, learning the grave was unmarked, we Ethics Point and beverages, as well as photos and memorabilia. Thus, had a headstone made. But the grave could not be located 1 Confidential, Online Reporting www.archdioceseofindianapolis.ethicspoint.com or 888-393-6810 they encourage visits by the souls of their loved ones to until recently. Michael went to New Mexico to supervise Carla Hill, Archdiocese of Indianapolis, Victim Assistance Coordinator hear the prayers of the living, and to dance and feast with its installation and spruce up the site. It felt as if Michael 2 P.O. Box 1410, Indianapolis, IN 46206-1410 them. had received a special mission from his grandfather’s 317-236-1548 or 800-382-9836, ext. 1548 We communicate with the dead when we pray to soul! [email protected] the saints, canonized or not. So it is not a far stretch to believe that souls are close by and in touch. My sister (Moises Sandoval writes for Catholic News Service.) † The Criterion Friday, December 6, 2019 Page 15 Foundation marks 25 years of supporting the Church in the Holy Land

By Sean Gallagher situation that is happening in the Holy people are doctors, architects, nurses, quickly stepped forward with $3 million. Land. They have a sensitivity, I think, pharmacists. If that isn’t helping to build “That’s another part of the Franciscan The Franciscan Foundation for the for their Church, their heritage, their up the Christian society in the Holy Foundation, maintaining the tomb of Holy Land (FFHL) was founded 25 roots. They know that is in the Holy Land, I don’t know what we’re doing Christ,” Father Peter said. “It’s a big years ago to help native Christians of Land. And because of that, they’re the then.” project.” the region where ones who want to make sure that there With its track record of helping young Although Father Peter and the FFHL Christ founded the will always be a Christian presence Christians build a life in the Holy Land so have been dedicated for a quarter of a Church to continue there.” they can stay there, the FFHL is attracting century to strengthening the Church in the to live there under Another factor for the strength of attention from more Christians in the Holy Land, the threats to the faithful there difficult political support of Catholics in central and region. and the motivations for them to leave are and economic southern Indiana for the FFHL is that “We’re getting more and more young as strong as ever. conditions. many of them have taken pilgrimages to people coming to us every year asking That doesn’t discourage the priest, Catholics in the Holy Land. to secure a college education,” Father though, because he, as a follower of central and southern Additionally, many priests serving Peter said. “We’re now very well known St. Francis of Assisi, has taken the long Indiana have for in archdiocesan parishes have visited in the Holy Land. They know there’s an view of the life of the Church in the Holy many years been the Holy Land and used their avenue where they can be assisted and Land. Fr. Peter Vasko, among the FFHL’s experience of the region to shape their get help.” “The Franciscans have been there for O.F.M. strongest supporters. homilies. The FFHL also supports the ministry 800 years,” Father Peter said. “We’ve Franciscan Father “That’s a big factor,” Father Peter of the Franciscans in the Holy Land who been taking up challenges in different Peter Vasko, who has led the foundation said. “Once they get there, they’re have cared for its many holy sites for areas, some more serious than others. from the start, recently visited made aware of the problems facing the hundreds of years. The work we are doing may seem like a Indianapolis to meet with some of its Christians there. It’s an important avenue They were recently given the task drop in the bucket. But every person is donors. if you want to know more about what’s for bolstering the ground underneath important. He spoke with The Criterion about the happening.” the “edicule,” the part of the Church of “We’re doing it slowly, but surely. continuing work of the FFHL, and of the Over its 25 years, the FFHL has the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem that is There were 700 families that were going conditions currently facing Catholics in provided college scholarships to 700 believed to be the place where Christ was to leave. They’re not leaving.” the Holy Land. Holy Land Christians so they can enter buried. “The Catholics in Indiana love professional fields of work. The two-year project, Father Peter (For more information about the their Church,” Father Peter said. “And “They had nothing. They were dirt estimated, will cost between $3-$6 million. Franciscan Foundation for the Holy Land, they’ve become more informed of the poor,” Father Peter said. “Now these He was encouraged, though, that donors visit ffhl.org.) † Advent penance services are scheduled at archdiocesan parishes Parishes throughout the archdiocese Dec. 16, 7 p.m. deanery service at Terre Haute Deanery Every Tuesday at St. Joseph, Rockville, have scheduled communal penance St. Luke the Evangelist Dec. 10, 7 p.m. at St. Patrick, Terre Haute 4:30 p.m. services for Advent. The following is a Dec. 17, 7 p.m. deanery service at Dec. 18, 1:30 p.m. at Sacred Heart of Every Wednesday at St. Benedict, list of services that have been reported to St. Luke the Evangelist Jesus, Terre Haute 7-8 p.m. The Criterion. Dec. 18, 7 p.m. at Sacred Heart, Clinton Every Thursday at St. Joseph University Indianapolis South Deanery Additionally, other opportunities for Parish, 7-8 p.m. Batesville Deanery Dec. 11, 7 p.m. for St. Jude and reconciliation in the Terre Haute First Saturday of the month at Dec. 6, 9 a.m.-9 p.m. at St. Martin Nativity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, at Deanery are as follows: Annunciation, Brazil, 9-11 a.m. Campus of All Saints, Dearborn St. Jude First Sunday of the month at St. Mary- Every Saturday at St. Margaret Mary, County Dec. 14, 9 a.m. at SS. Francis and Clare of-the-Woods, St. Mary-of-the-Woods, 3-3:45 p.m.; Sacred Heart, Clinton, Dec. 10, 6:30 p.m. at St. Peter, Franklin of Assisi, Greenwood 8:30 a.m., and St. Paul the Apostle in 3:30-4 p.m.; St. Joseph University, County Dec. 18, 6:30 p.m. for St. Barnabas, Greencastle, after 11 a.m. Mass-3 p.m. 3:30-4:30 p.m.; St. Benedict, Dec. 10, 7 p.m. at St. Mary, Greensburg St. Mark the Evangelist and St. Roch, Every Sunday at Annunciation, Brazil, 4 p.m.; Sacred Heart of Jesus, Dec. 16, 6 p.m. at St. Mary of the at St. Mark the Evangelist 8-8:45 a.m.; St. Patrick, 8-8:30 a.m.; 4 p.m.; St. Paul the Apostle, Immaculate Conception, Aurora Dec. 23, 7 p.m. at Our Lady of the and St. Paul the Apostle, Greencastle, Greencastle, 4-4:45 p.m.; and Dec. 17, 7 p.m. at Holy Family, Greenwood, Greenwood noon St. Patrick, 7:15-7:45 p.m. † Oldenburg Dec. 23, 7 p.m. for St. Ann and Dec. 18, 7 p.m. at St. Louis, Batesville St. Thomas More, Mooresville (West Dec. 19, 7 p.m. at St. John the Evangelist Deanery), at St. Ann Campus of St. Catherine of Siena, For advertising rates call Decatur County Indianapolis West Deanery (317) 236-1585. Dec. 20, 9 a.m.-9 p.m. at St. Joseph, Dec. 11, 7 p.m. at Mary, Queen of Peace, Classified Directory Shelbyville Danville Dec. 18, 7 p.m. for St. Joseph and Special Care Hauling & Removal Bloomington Deanery St. Susanna, Plainfield, at St. Susanna Dec. 11, 6-9 p.m. for St. Charles Dec. 23, 7 p.m. for St. Thomas More, • Tree Removal, Topping & Trimming Borromeo and St. Paul Catholic Center, Mooresville, and St. Ann (South • Shrub Trimming & Removal Trusted and Compassionate Care Bloomington, at St. Paul Catholic Deanery), at St. Ann • Light Hauling Center Serving people with Autism & • Construction Clean-up Developmental Disabilities Dec. 12, 7 p.m. at St. Martin of Tours, New Albany Deanery • Junk Removal Martinsville Dec. 10, 7 p.m. at Most Sacred Heart of ∙ Medicaid Waiver ( CIH & FSW) • Brush Pile Cleaning ∙ Residential, Community, Respite • Garage/Basement/Attic Cleanout Dec. 18, 6:30 p.m. at St. Jude the Apostle, Jesus, Jeffersonville and PAC Services • Gutter Cleaning Spencer Dec. 11, 7 p.m. at St. Mary, Navilleton ∙ Staff screened and trained FredAndSons.com • Mini Barn / Shed / Fence / Deck Dec. 19, 6 p.m. at St. John the Apostle, Dec. 11, 7 p.m. at St. Mary-of-the-Knobs, Kathy and Terry Huser Demolition & Removal Bloomington Floyd County (317) 255-5700 • Appliance / E-Waste Removal www.HuserSpecialCare.com 317-626-5973 Dec. 12, 6:30 p.m. at St. Paul Campus of • Stump Grinding Career Opportunities Available Call today for prompt service! Connersville Deanery St. John Paul II, Sellersburg Dec. 11, after 6 p.m. Mass at St. Gabriel, Dec. 18, 7 p.m. at St. Anthony of Padua, Connersville Clarksville Help Wanted Dec. 18, 6 p.m. at St. Anne, New Castle Dec. 18, 7 p.m. at Our Lady of Perpetual Fred+SonsAd_Criterion_3.375x2.indd 1 2/12/18 2:01 PM Dec. 20, 6 p.m. at Holy Family Campus Help, New Albany of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton, Richmond Dec. 19, 7 p.m. at St. Mary, New Albany Principal Dec. 22, 4 p.m. at St. John the Baptist, Indianapolis East Deanery Starlight Dec. 11, 7 p.m. at St. Thomas the Apostle, Additionally, other opportunities for Father Thomas Scecina Memorial High School, Fortville reconciliation in the New Albany Father Thomas Scecina Memorial High School, the Archdiocese of Indianapolis, Dec. 16, 7 p.m. for Our Lady of Lourdes Deanery are as follows: East Deanery high school, is accepting applications through January 15, 2020 and St. Therese of the Infant Jesus Dec. 19 at St. Francis Xavier, Henryville, for the position of Principal. The ideal candidate will value and articulate the (Little Flower), at Our Lady of 5-7:30 p.m. Catholic character of the school, demonstrate a thorough understanding of Indiana Lourdes Every Wednesday at St. Michael, Graduation Pathways, and have proven skills and experience in leading and Dec. 17, 7 p.m. at St. Philip Neri Charlestown, 5-7:30 p.m. supporting faculty and programs in service to students and mission. Applicants Dec. 19, 6:30 p.m. at St. Michael, must possess an educational administrator’s license or have made substantial Greenfield Seymour Deanery progress toward this license and be a practicing Catholic. Additionally, reconciliation in the East Dec. 10, 7 p.m. for St. Bartholomew, Deanery is available on the following Columbus, and Holy Trinity, For more information and/or to submit a letter of interest, resume, and dates: Edinburgh, at St. Bartholomew professional references contact: Mon.-Fri. after 5:15 p.m. daily Mass at Dec. 11, 6 p.m. at St. Patrick, Salem SS. Peter and Paul Cathedral Dec. 12, 6 p.m. at Church of the Mr. Rob Rash Every Tuesday at St. Mary, 6-7 p.m. American Martyrs, Scottsburg Assistant Superintendent Dec. 16, 9 a.m.-7 p.m. at Our Lady of Dec. 17, 7 p.m. at St. Rose of Lima, Office of Catholic Schools Fatima Retreat House, 5353 E. 56th Franklin 1400 North Meridian Street St., no appointment needed Dec. 18, 7 p.m. at St. Ambrose, Seymour Indianapolis, IN 46202 317-236-1544 Indianapolis North Deanery Tell City Deanery [email protected] Dec. 15, 2 p.m. deanery service at Dec. 15, 2 p.m. CST at St. Paul, St. Simon the Apostle Tell City Page 16 The Criterion Friday, December 6, 2019

From the Bishop Simon Bruté ARCHIVES

Combatting racism Professor Agustin Fuentes, chair of the Anthropology Department at the University of Notre Dame in Notre Dame, Ind., delivers a Hesburgh lecture on race and racism on Nov. 13 at School at St. Mary-of-the-Woods St. Thomas Aquinas Church in Indianapolis. His lecture, titled “What Race is and What Race is Not,” drew a crowd of about 200 parishioners and guests. His visit was sponsored by the The school at St. Mary-of-the-Woods Parish in St. Mary-of-the-Woods is seen in Notre Dame Club of Indianapolis and the St. Thomas Aquinas Parish community conversations this photo from 1967. The school was founded by St. Theodora Guérin in 1842 and committee. Fuentes’ presentation was part of the parish’s efforts to heighten awareness of operated until 1969. The school building shown in this photo was built in 1923. racism and combat it. Under the theme “That They All May Be One” (Jn. 17:21)—Racial Justice Through Reconciliation, those efforts include hosting diversity dinners, implicit bias training (Would you like to comment on or share information about this photo? Contact and routinely offering prayers for racial healing at Mass. The lecture may be viewed on the archdiocesan archivest Julie Motyka at 800-382-9836, ext. 1538; 317-236-1538; or St. Thomas Aquinas Parish website at: www.staindy.org/church/sta-community-conversations. by e-mail at [email protected].) (Submitted photo)

Like Sister de Lourdes and Sister Florence Kruczek (right), 91, some 30,000 senior Catholic sisters, brothers, and religious order priests have spent their lives doing the Lord’s work. Most served for little or no pay, and now their religious communities do not have enough retirement savings. Your gift to the Retirement Fund for Religious offers vital support for necessities, such as medications and nursing care. Please be generous.

Roughly 94 percent of donations aid senior religious.

“ Live with good humor and just do the Lord’s work,” says Franciscan Please give at your local parish Sister de Lourdes December 7–8. Okoniewski (left), 87.

To donate by mail: Archdiocese of Indianapolis Retirement Fund Mission Office 1400 North Meridian Street Indianapolis, IN 46202 Make check payable to Mission Office with for Religious Religious Retirement on the memo line.

Please give to those who have given a lifetime. retiredreligious.org

©2019 United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, Washington, DC. All rights reserved. Photo: Jim Judkis