Facing challenges

The life of St. Theodora Guérin offers guidance in present times, page 9. Serving the Church in Central and Southern Indiana Since 1960

CriterionOnline.com February 12, 2021 Vol. LXI, No. 18 75¢ Expansion to ‘I’ve tried to school choice make the program under consideration of it’ at Statehouse most By Victoria Arthur Ten years after the passage of groundbreaking legislation that made Indiana a national leader in school choice, state lawmakers are considering a bill that would extend the reach of the program to far more Hoosier families. House Bill 1005 builds upon the 2011 law establishing Indiana’s Choice Scholarship Program, more commonly known as the voucher program. As he was a decade ago, the lawmaker behind the effort is Rep. Bob Behning (R-Indianapolis). His current proposed legislation, which passed the House Education Committee on Feb. 3, would expand eligibility to allow more parents in Indiana to select the school they believe is best for their children. “We have excellent schools across the state, but it is nearly impossible for them to meet every unique need of every child,” said Behning, chairman of the committee. “Because the coronavirus pandemic has changed how some students attend class, Faith, family and Seton community help parents began considering other options to educate their students. Many Hoosier families already enjoy the flexibilities of Indiana’s small school star live his NBA dream school choice program, but there is still a large group shut out of these opportunities.” By John Shaughnessy great-grandparents—how he had lived with them since he House Bill 1005 would help middle- and was 2, how they loved him, and how they guided him to upper middle-class families still struggling On the day his dream came true, Desmond Bane stood in live a life rooted in faith, hard work and humility. to pay for private school tuition by raising front of the modest home where he grew up, wanting to pay In the background, the video also captured a glimpse of the financial eligibility requirements for tribute to all the people who supported him along the way. the driveway where he had been playing basketball since vouchers. That threshold, which currently Flashing a huge smile, the 22-year-old Bane created he was 3, where he and his friends played countless games, stands at a maximum family income of a video that focused on his family, his friends and all his and where his dream of playing in the National Basketball 150 percent of the federal free and reduced supporters in his hometown of Richmond. Association (NBA) began. lunch program, would be increased to 225 In that emotional moment, Bane thought of his See NBA, page 8 percent this year and then 300 percent by July 2022 under the proposed legislation. Photo: A 2016 graduate of Seton Catholic High School in Richmond, Desmond Bane was chosen in the first round of the 2020 National In addition, the bill would increase the Basketball Association draft and plays for the Memphis Grizzlies. Here, he drives to the basket in a Feb. 2 game against the Indiana Pacers at scholarship amount that a voucher student Bankers Life Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. His pro debut in Indiana drew several hundred fans from Richmond and the Seton community. (Photo receives in a school year. Currently, the courtesy of Matt Kryger, photographer for Indiana Pacers Sports & Entertainment) program operates under three tiers, with students receiving vouchers of 50, 70 or 90 See ICC, page 15

‘A hopeful moment’ Church dedication points to a positive future for Greenfield parish in a time of pandemic By Sean Gallagher

GREENFIELD—The dedication of a church is a joyful time for a faith community. But the Jan. 30 dedication of the renovated St. Michael Church in Greenfield was marked by a special joy—and hope. That’s because the $2.7 million project began shortly before Archbishop Charles C. Thompson pours chrism oil on the altar the suspension of public celebration of worship in churches across of St. Michael Church in Greenfield during a Jan. 30 dedication Indiana on March 18, 2020, at the start of the coronavirus pandemic. Mass of the recently renovated church. Looking on is Father The dedication of the church now comes at a time when there is Douglas Marcotte (partially obscured), pastor of St. Simon greater knowledge on how to protect people from the virus, how to the Apostle Parish in Indianapolis who grew up in St. Michael treat those infected by it and shortly after the launch of vaccines. Parish. (Photo by Sean Gallagher) See DEDICATION, page 16 Page 2 The Criterion Friday, February 12, 2021

Naming undersecretaries for synod, Public Schedule of Archbishop Charles C. Thompson Pope Francis gives a woman a vote ______VATICAN CITY (CNS)—Xaviere Grech said. “We will then see what other February 13–21, 2021 Missionary Sister Nathalie Becquart will steps could be taken in the future.” not be the first woman undersecretary Sister Nathalie, who was an observer February 13 – 11 a.m. February 18 – 5 p.m. CST of a major Vatican at the 2018 Synod of Bishops on young Virtual Association of Graduate Ministries of Lector and Acolyte Mass office, but she will be people, was named a consultant to the Programs in Ministry retreat at Saint Meinrad Archabbey, the first woman with Synod of Bishops in 2019. She told St. Meinrad a right to vote at a Catholic News Service at the time that February 16 – 9 a.m. meeting of the Synod the appointment was “a symbolic and Visit at Roncalli High School, February 20 – 10:30 a.m. of Bishops. effective step toward appointing more Indianapolis Rite of Election at Our Lady of Pope Francis women at the Curia, and it reflects Pope Perpetual Help Church, New Albany named the French Francis’ desire to give more places to February 16 – 11:30 a.m. sister one of two women at all levels of the Church.” Visit at Bishop Chatard High School, February 21 – 2 p.m. undersecretaries of Sister Nathalie, the former director of Indianapolis Rite of Election at SS. Peter and Paul Sr. Nathalie the Synod of Bishops youth evangelization and vocations for Cathedral Becquart on Feb. 6. the French bishops’ conference, also said February 17 – 10 a.m. The other in the interview she was convinced more Department Heads meeting at February 21 – 4 p.m. undersecretary is Augustinian Father Luis progress would come. Archbishop Edward T. O’Meara Rite of Election at SS. Peter and Paul Marin de San Martin, whom Pope Francis “Changes will come with the new Catholic Center, Indianapolis Cathedral also named a bishop on Feb. 6. generation as more and more young Cardinal Mario Grech, secretary- people—not only young women, but also February 17 – Noon February 21 – 6 p.m. general of the Synod of Bishops, was young men—ask for women’s equality,” Ash Wednesday Mass at SS. Peter and Rite of Election at SS. Peter and Paul asked by Vatican News if Sister Nathalie she said. Added hope comes from meeting Paul Cathedral, Indianapolis Cathedral having the right to vote at the synod “more and more priests and bishops now would open the possibility to other that are speaking out for women. I have February 18 – 1:45 p.m. women as well. Although the issue has seen an evolution; at the beginning, the Visit at Our Lady of Providence High been raised increasingly in the synod hall, question of women in the Church was a School, Clarksville until now only bishops and a few priests question from women, and now it is also and brothers belonging to religious orders an important topic for many men, priests have had a vote. and bishops—and even the pope!” Pope Francis, Cardinal Grech But one will not be able to say there is responded, has “highlighted several times true collaboration between men and women Senate again fails to pass Born-Alive the importance that women be more at all levels of the Church until there are involved in the processes of discernment “more women in leadership positions and and decision-making in the Church,” and decision-making processes,” she said. Abortion Survivors Protection Act in recent synods, the number of women Obviously, the pope should continue WASHINGTON (CNS)—Failure to The Born-Alive Abortion Survivors participating as nonvoting experts or and appointing women to councils and pass the Born-Alive Abortion Survivors Protection Act “is not about abortion, observers has increased. dicasteries, she said. But she also had Protection Act “shows just how extreme but pro-abortion groups and their allies “With the appointment of Sister another idea: “Another symbolic step the majority of Senate Democrats are,” in the Senate have tried to make it about Nathalie Becquart and the opportunity could be, for instance, that he ask a said Carol Tobias, president of National abortion,” Tobias said in a statement that she will participate with the right to woman to lead the spiritual retreat for the Right to Life. released late on Feb. 4. “There is no vote, a door has been opened,” Cardinal Curia one year.” † The measure was proposed as such thing as a ‘post-birth abortion.’ an amendment to the 2021 Budget Allowing a child to die after birth is Resolution in the Senate. In a roll call infanticide.” Deadline is March 15 for ministry vote on Feb. 4 all Senate Republicans, The Budget Resolution was approved along with Democratic Sens. Joe by the Senate early on Feb. 5, and the fellowship with Holy Land pilgrimage Manchin, D-West Virginia, and Bob House passed its version later that day. Casey Jr., D-Pennsylvania, voted in favor This key procedural step will allow Criterion staff report ministry, death and resurrection. of the amendment. Democrats to pass President Joe Biden’s Following the pilgrimage, each Forty-eight Senate Democrats blocked $1.9 trillion COVID-19 relief package Catholic pilgrimage company Verso Fellow will present a creative capstone the amendment, which required 60 votes without a filibuster by the Republicans, Ministries, located in Notre Dame, Ind., project expressing outcomes from their to pass. who are against it. is accepting applications for its inaugural participation. The measure requires that, when a Meanwhile, in the House on the Frassati Fellowship, a six-month journey The cost of the program is $2,499, plus baby is born alive following an abortion, evening of Feb. 3, U.S. Rep. Chris Smith, of prayer and formation, including a the cost of roundtrip airfare to Israel. This health care practitioners must exercise R-New Jersey, co-chair of the pro-life pilgrimage to the Holy Land. final cost includes a $2,000 scholarship the same degree of professional skill and caucus, was joined by several members The goal of the fellowship is to fuel courtesy of Verso Ministries. care that would be offered to any other of Congress as he led a special order on continued leadership, creativity and For a $500 discount, enter referral child born alive at the same gestational the House floor, saying the unborn need commitment within the Church. code ArchIndy when submitting the age. It also requires that, following President Joe Biden “to be their friend It was created exclusively for application. appropriate care, health care workers and advocate—not another powerful individuals in Catholic ministry, whether Applications can be completed online must transport the child immediately to adversary. as a volunteer or working full or part time at www.VersoMinistries.com/Frassati- a hospital. “Just like today, both Presidents in a parish, school or nonprofit ministry. Fellowship and must include a personal Tobias and other supporters of the [Bill] Clinton and [Barack] Obama Individuals enrolled in full-time graduate statement, current résumé and letter of measure say current federal law does not came into office with Democrat studies in theology, divinity or related support from a supervisor or religious sufficiently protect a child born following majorities in both houses and fields may also apply. superior. an abortion, saying evidence exists that sweeping plans to eviscerate all Fellows will meet virtually for The deadline to apply is on March 15. some abortion providers do not regard pro-life laws and policies,” said Smith, bi-monthly meetings that will include Finalists for the 25 slots will be invited to babies born alive during abortions as a Catholic. formational activities, mentor sessions, a virtual interview, and selections will be persons as provided for under the Born- Pro-lifers “again face enormous prayer and readings in anticipation of a announced during the week of April 5. Alive Infants Protection Act, enacted challenges” under the administration nine-day pilgrimage to the Holy Land on For more information, go to www. by Congress in 2002 with unanimous of Biden, himself a Catholic, and they July 14-22. versoministries.com/frassati-fellowship support. “recommit to persevere through prayer, With visits to places like Bethlehem, and scroll to the Frequently Asked Under this law, babies who are born fasting and good works—and respect, Nazareth, Jerusalem and the Sea of Questions section at the bottom of the alive, whether before or after “viability,” including for those with whom we Galilee, participants will experience page, or contact John Paul Lichon at 574- are recognized as full legal persons under fundamentally disagree—even when it’s firsthand the land of Jesus’ birth, 383-9396 or [email protected]. † federal law. not reciprocated,” Smith said. †

The Criterion NEWS FROM YOU! (ISSN 0574-4350) is The Do you have something exciting or published weekly except Criterion newsworthy you want to be considered the last week of December to be printed in The Criterion? and the first week of TheCriterion 02/12/21 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 © 2021 City______Executive Assistant: Ann Lewis 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 © 2021 Criterion Press Inc. ISSN 0574-4350. Indianapolis, IN 46202-2367 The Criterion • 1400 N. Meridian St. • Indianapolis, IN 46202-2367 The Criterion Friday, February 12, 2021 Page 3 Father John Peter Gallagher served in archdiocesan high schools, parishes

By Sean Gallagher Indiana: urban high schools and parishes, Jan. 23, 1961, in Shelbyville to the late Thanksgiving on June 7, 1992, at as well as faith communities in suburbs, David and Elizabeth (Moore) Gallagher. St. Joseph Church in Shelbyville. Father John Peter Gallagher, pastor small towns and rural areas. He grew up as a member of St. Joseph His first pastoral assignment was as of Our Lady of the Springs Parish in He also served as chaplain for the Parish. His family later lived for periods associate pastor of Holy Spirit Parish in French Lick and Our Lord Jesus Christ Indianapolis Colts National Football in Iowa, Minnesota and South Dakota Indianapolis, where he served until 1994. the King Parish in Paoli, died on Feb. 6 League team for several years, including before returning to Shelbyville. Father Gallagher then served in in the parish rectory when it won the Super Bowl in 2007. After graduating from Shelbyville High Indianapolis from 1994-96 as pastor of the in French Lick. He Father Gallagher was proud for years School in 1979, Father Gallagher became former Holy Cross Parish and as sacramental was 60. afterward to wear the Super Bowl ring he an archdiocesan seminarian and received minister at Our Lady of the Most Holy As The Criterion received from the team. formation at the former Saint Meinrad Rosary Parish and St. Patrick Parish. went to press, funeral No matter where he was, though, Father College, graduating in 1983. From 1996-2005, Father Gallagher arrangements for Father Gallagher felt comfortable with the people At that time, he entered the novitiate ministered in Indianapolis as chaplain Gallagher had not he was called to serve, said Father Daniel of Saint Meinrad Archabbey. Father for Father Thomas Scecina Memorial been completed. Go to Mahan, pastor of St. Barnabas Parish in Gallagher professed temporary vows for a High School while living at St. Simon the CriterionOnline.com for Indianapolis, the homilist at his brother three-year period as a Benedictine monk Apostle Parish. updated information, priest’s funeral. in 1984. By the time that period was From 2005-09, he served as chaplain Fr. John Peter including where “He had a deep understanding of complete, Father Gallagher had discerned at Cardinal Ritter Jr./Sr. High School Gallagher memorial contributions human nature,” said Father Mahan, “and that he was not called to monastic life, left in Indianapolis. During that period, can be sent. was able to relate to people of all different Saint Meinrad and moved to California he also ministered as associate pastor Father Gallagher was nearly ordained a backgrounds, from very poor people in where he taught for two years at the of St. Malachy Parish in Brownsburg priest for the Archdiocese of Los Angeles. the center city of Indianapolis during his former Daniel Murphy High School, an from 2005-07 and provided sacramental After first discerning a call to the time at Holy Cross, to people in rural all-boys Catholic school in a south central assistance at St. Anthony Parish and priesthood in Indiana, he later moved to environments, to members of a Super neighborhood of Los Angeles. the former Holy Trinity Parish, both in California and became a seminarian there. Bowl-winning Colts team.” In 1989, Father Gallagher became Indianapolis, from 2007-09. In his last year of formation, however, That deep understanding of human a seminarian for the Los Angeles In 2009, Father Gallagher was Father Gallagher felt the call to return home. nature came in part from Father Archdiocese and received formation at appointed pastor of St. Lawrence Parish in “Indiana is my real home,” he said in a Gallagher’s own personal struggles, said St. John Seminary in Camarillo, Calif., Lawrenceburg, where he served until 2018. 1992 interview with The Criterion. Father William Marks, ordained with earning a master of divinity degree there. In that same year, he became pastor of Our “ … Those were the roots of my vocation. Father Gallagher in 1992. During his final year of priestly Lady of the Springs Parish in French Lick It is the one Church that I’m familiar with Father Marks, pastor of St. Mary-of- formation, Father Gallagher re-affiliated and Our Lord Jesus Christ the King Parish and comfortable with.” the-Knobs Parish in Floyd County, praised with the Archdiocese of Indianapolis. in Paoli, where he served until his death. Father Gallagher also noted the his friend’s “ability to accept people He was ordained a priest on June 6, He is survived by his sisters Anne importance of family in his Hoosier home. where they were at in their journey with 1992, in SS. Peter and Paul Cathedral in Gallagher of Indianapolis; Beth Keele “It really was my family that was a God, to walk with them. … He was just Indianapolis by Bishop William L. Higi of of Lincoln, Neb.; and Kate Gallagher very, very important part of my vocation,” there with the person in their journey. the Diocese of Lafayette, Ind. of Omaha, Neb.; and by his brothers he said. “They are the people who really “His life was a discovery of himself At the time, the archdiocese was David Gallagher of Indianapolis; Kevin supported my vocation.” and a discovery of God in the midst of without a shepherd, Archbishop Edward T. Gallagher of Fort Collins, Colo.; Patrick Father Gallagher ministered in a that,” Father Marks said. O’Meara having died in January of 1992. Gallagher of Shelbyville; and variety of settings in central and southern John Peter Gallagher was born on Father Gallagher celebrated a Mass of R.T. Gallagher of Bloomfield, Ind. † California bishops welcome Supreme Court’s ruling easing worship restrictions WASHINGTON (CNS)—Two Chief Justice John Roberts wrote that the we will no longer be singled out for arbitrary “welcoming our congregations back California Catholic bishops applauded the ban on indoor worship services “appears restriction by the government.” inside our churches, at 25% capacity, and Supreme Court’s Feb. 5 ruling easing the to reflect not expertise or discretion, but He also said he looks forward to following all COVID safety procedures.” † state’s restrictions on indoor worship put instead insufficient appreciation of the in place with the COVID-19 pandemic. interests at stake.” And Justice Amy Coney “This is a very significant step forward for Barrett, in her first signed opinion, joined by basic rights. This decision makes clear we Justice Brett Kavanaugh, said the churches can now return to worshipping safely indoors should have offered the court reasons why without risk of harassment from government they should be permitted to have singing officials,” said San Francisco Archbishop and chanting in their services. Salvatore J. Cordileone in a Feb. 6 statement. Justice Elena Kagan dissented from Similarly, Bishop Michael C. Barber of the court’s ruling, joined by Justices Oakland, Calif., called the decision “a victory Stephen Breyer and Sonia Sotomayor, for religious liberty rights for all Americans.” noting that even though the justices “are The high court’s decision gave not scientists,” they chose to go against California churches the right to resume the “judgments of experts about how to indoor worship services while still allowing respond to a raging pandemic.” the state to keep its ban on singing and She said the state is required to “treat chanting, and limiting attendance at 25% worship services like secular activities that of capacity until their appeals against these pose a much lesser danger. That mandate restrictions are resolved by lower courts. defies our case law, exceeds our judicial The decision, issued just before 11 p.m., role and risks worsening the pandemic.” was in response to challenges from South She also said the court’s action “leaves Bay United Pentecostal Church, near San state policymakers adrift, in California Diego, and Harvest Rock Church, with and elsewhere. It is difficult enough in campuses in different parts of southern a predictable legal environment to craft California. The churches argued that the COVID policies that keep communities state’s restrictions on indoor worship safe. That task becomes harder still when services violated the Constitution since some officials must guess which restrictions this businesses are allowed to remain open. court will choose to strike down.” The churches reminded the Supreme In the summer, California Gov. Gavin Court of its decision last November in the Newsom issued restrictions prohibiting Diocese of Brooklyn v. Cuomo, where the most indoor religious services in court lifted the pandemic restrictions on California counties that have experienced congregation sizes at houses of worship a surge in coronavirus cases and that had been imposed by New York hospitalizations. The Gov. Andrew Cuomo. In his Feb. 6 statement, Archbishop The court’s ruling revealed a variety of Cordileone said the Supreme Court made differing views from the bench on this issue. clear to state officials that permitting Moment In one opinion, Justices Clarence indoor worship is “a fundamental right No gift is too small. 100% of every gift Thomas and Neil Gorsuch said they and the law of the land.” goes directly to support ministries that would have allowed the churches to He also said he hoped state officials support our schools, our parishes, our You Step Out reopen without any restrictions. will “appreciate the care we’ve taken all seminarians, our retired priests, and The opinion, also joined by Justice throughout this crisis to protect the public Samuel Alito, indicated that California health with masks, social distancing and thousands upon thousands in need to Serve and Help seemed to single out religion for other reasonable measures.” in the communities in which more restrictive treatment, noting: “If The archbishop said the court’s ruling we live. YOU can make a big Hollywood may host a studio audience was “a breath of fresh air in dark times,” difference in so many ways Others, God Will or film a singing competition while not and thanked those who have spoken up a single soul may enter California’s in favor of Church members worshipping by making a gift today. churches, synagogues and mosques, together indoors, which he said is part of something has gone seriously awry.” their very identity. Change Your Heart. Alito also said separately that he Bishop Barber, in his Feb. 6 statement, would have given the state 30 more days said he also was glad about the decision and to present additional evidence before an pleased that “churches and synagogues will www.archindy.org/UCA injunction against the singing ban and the fall under the same safety rules which govern 25% capacity limits would take effect. retail shopping and gambling casinos, and Page 4 The Criterion Friday, February 12, 2021

Opinion Reflection/John F. Fink Mardi Gras is a Catholic thing Mardi Gras is a Catholic celebration. The secretary in our office was one We here in Indiana don’t celebrate of the princesses in the krewe (one Archbishop Charles C. Thompson, Publisher Greg A. Otolski, Associate Publisher Fat Tuesday like they do in other parts of the groups that sponsored a parade Mike Krokos, Editor John F. Fink, Editor Emeritus of the country, and a ball) and she asked me to escort especially in the her. South. Sometimes, But it was after my retirement as we only see parades editor of The Criterion and spending Editorial on TV, usually in 13 winters in Orange Beach, Ala., that New Orleans or my wife and I began to attend Mardi Rio de Janeiro. The Gras parades on a regular basis: in emphasis is almost Mobile and New Orleans, of course, always on revelry. but also Orange Beach, Gulf Shores, But the observance Fairhope and Pensacola, Fla. We ended is Catholic. up with bags full of beads tossed by Often, people who don’t live in the people on floats to those watching the South are unaware that Mardi Gras parade. We would drive to the cities has become more than only a single with friends, park in parking lots, day. It’s the entire period of time tailgate for dinner, and then watch the between the feast of Epiphany and Ash parades and catch beads. It was always Wednesday, which Catholics tend to great fun. observe more than others do. Parades About those beads: The official and balls in towns in the South begin colors for Mardi Gras beads are purple, the week after Epiphany and, if you which stands for justice; green, which live in the South during any normal stands for faith; and gold, which stands year, you can watch the parades and for power. try to catch strings of beads and other Another tradition is the king cake: items several times a week. a pastry with the Mardi Gras colors as This year, though, there are no frosting, with a small plastic baby Jesus parades because of the COVID-19 baked inside. Whoever gets the plastic Therese Brandon, left, and Father Joseph Moriarty visit their father, Patrick Moriarty, pandemic. baby has to host the next party, or buy on April 30, 2020, through the window of their father’s room at the St. Paul Hermitage Mardi Gras was brought to the the next cake, or whatever else the retirement community in Beech Grove. For more than two months, visitors were not United States by the French, and the friends decide. allowed into the Hermitage except for end-of-life situations to help protect the residents words themselves mean “Fat Tuesday.” Floats in the parades can be and staff members from the coronavirus. (File photo by Sean Gallagher) The idea was that the day before Ash elaborate in the big cities, or simple in Wednesday is the final day to eat meats smaller towns, but they are big enough and fatty foods before the penitential for numerous members of the krewes season of Lent, back when Lenten who build them. Riders on the floats, regulations regarding fasting from and participants in the balls that follow Day will serve as a reminder of meat were much stricter than they are the parades, are masked because the today. theory is that they can do good deeds gifts of grandparents, elderly Other Catholic countries also (or bad deeds) incognito. celebrated this period with festivals. New Orleans, Mobile, Biloxi and They are the family members who grandparents, before their grandchildren, In Germany, it was (and is) called probably other cities have Mardi Gras help write our history, nurture seeds of will dream and have great desires, and Fasching, in Italy Martedi Grasso, and museums that display some of the fancy faith, and love us unconditionally. young people—taking strength from in Brazil Carnival. costumes that women have worn to the They are our grandparents and, in their grandparents—will go forward and Mobile, Ala., legitimately claims that balls. The one in New Orleans is only some cases, our elderly parents. prophesy,” he said. Mardi Gras in the United States began yards away from St. Louis Cathedral, Sadly, many of them are isolated and Offering a reflection on the annual there. The first organized celebration which seems appropriate. feel threatened because of the COVID-19 Feb. 2 feast of the Presentation of the there was in 1703. New Orleans didn’t Mardi Gras ends abruptly at pandemic. Lord, the pope said the recognition of start its celebrations until 1837, and midnight, as Ash Wednesday and Lent No age group has been hit harder Christ as the Messiah by the elderly Galveston, Texas, in 1867. Carnival begin. Then it’s time for confession and and more adversely affected by the Simeon and Anna is a reminder that “the began in Brazil (the country with the penance—also very Catholic. pandemic. The Centers for Disease Holy Spirit still stirs up thoughts and largest Catholic population) in 1723. Control and Prevention states that eight words of wisdom in the elderly today. My first introduction to Mardi Gras (John F. Fink is editor emeritus of out of 10 COVID-19 deaths in the U.S. “Their voice is precious because was while I was in the Air Force in The Criterion.) † have been in adults 65 years old and it sings the praises of God and 1954 and stationed in Biloxi, Miss. older. safeguards the roots of peoples,” he Some grandparents and elderly said. “They remind us that old age is family members have hunkered down at a gift and that grandparents are the Be Our Guest/Fr. Eugene Hemrick home, only leaving when it is absolutely link between generations, passing on necessary. Others are in independent the experience of life and faith to the A note of thanks to first responders, living, assisted-living facilities and young. nursing homes, where visitors coming “Grandparents are often forgotten, inside those places of residence are and we forget this wealth of preserving police and the National Guard severely restricted. “Window visits”— roots and passing on,” he added. What is it about service that touches us During conversations with the where a family member or friend While the worldwide coronavirus so deeply? police and National Guard, a moment stands outside their window and pandemic has brought challenges During the Washington lockdown I experienced as a boy came to mind. communicates—are the new normal, to nearly every corner of the globe, before the I was with my dad in the backyard. as are phone calls, FaceTime and other we believe it has also presented an inauguration, I talked Suddenly, he saw smoke coming from forms of communication. opportunity to bring families closer with U.S. Capitol and the house next door. Vaulting over a high On more than one occasion, together. But we must also make Supreme Court police fence, he raced into the building and Pope Francis has reminded us of the sure there are no forgotten ones, and the members of extinguished the fire. No concern for his important role that grandparents and the especially the elderly members of the National Guard. safety—he was a first responder doing elderly play, serving as a link between our communities, who—now as As I left them, I felt his duty. generations. much as ever—need to know they are a beautiful feeling of The Greek poet Homer considered duty So we should all be grateful our remembered and loved. belonging. the real mark of a nobleman. For Homer, Holy Father recently announced the In a statement published shortly after The reason for a nobleman is happily judged by a severe establishment of a World Day of the pope’s announcement, Cardinal this sentiment measure—his sense of duty. Grandparents and the Elderly. Kevin J. Farrell, prefect of the Dicastery came from my father being a Chicago As inspiring as it is to fulfill our During his Sunday Angelus address for Laity, the Family and Life, said the fireman. I was also a fireman and duty, it comes with a price requiring on Jan. 31, the pope said the day will yearly event was “a gift to the whole taught in a police academy. I was the sacrifice of comforts and even be celebrated every year on the fourth Church” that emphasizes the pastoral among first responders, whom I sometimes life itself. It is not for the Sunday of July, which is the Sunday care of the elderly as “a priority that can deeply respect. My esteem comes from weak-hearted. And yet when we seek closest to the July 26 memorial no longer be postponed by any Christian experiencing the way they react when wherein lies its inspiration, our difficult of Sts. Joachim and Anne, Jesus’ community.” dealing with life’s darker side. effort to practice it is worth the price for grandparents. The first celebration of We pray we use this annual Once when responding to a house achieving it. this day will be on July 25, when Pope celebration each July to remind our fire with the police, we found ourselves Here we are pointed to the life of Francis will mark the first World Day grandparents and the elderly what a gift in the middle of a family feud over Christ that contains the essence of duty’s of Grandparents and the Elderly with they are to us, and how we will each do who caused the fire. Nor will I ever inspiration. His glory is fulfilling his duty an evening Mass in St. Peter’s Basilica our best, God willing, to continue the forget how an officer, doctor and to do the Father’s will. As Homer notes at the Vatican. spiritual legacy many are creating in myself responded to a crib death. and Christ practiced, duty is an eternal “It is important for grandparents passing down our faith from generation Both occasions were charged with ideal—the epitome of our God-given to meet their grandchildren and for to generation. overwhelming tension, but in each meaning. grandchildren to meet their grandparents one, these people exuded professional because—as the prophet Joel says— —Mike Krokos calmness and skills. We were a cohesive (Father Eugene Hemrick writes for team fulfilling our duties as one. Catholic News Service.) † The Criterion Friday, February 12, 2021 Page 5 ARCHBISHOP/ARZOBISPO CHARLES C. THOMPSON

hrist C the Cornerstone

Lord’s healing touch can unite us, heal our wounds The Gospel reading for next is surely greater now that we have all will be proof for them”? (Mk 1:44) consequences, God’s grace is sufficient weekend (Mk 1:40–45), the Sixth experienced the horrors caused by the We should have a better to overcome every difficulty. Jesus was Sunday in Ordinary Time, describes COVID-19 pandemic. understanding today of the importance prevented from entering the neighboring one of many instances where Jesus When we first encountered this of following mandatory protocols in towns, but people came out to him any cures a man suffering from leprosy, a modern-day plague more than a year dealing with deadly, contagious diseases. way. He touched them, and their hearts, contagious disease that affects the skin, ago, there was no cure. Isolation, masks Jesus is willing to step outside the norm minds and bodies were healed. mucous membranes and nerves, causing and frequent sanitizing of our hands and to effect the man’s cure, but he insists God knows that, especially in this discoloration and lumps on the skin everything we touch was the only hope that the proper procedures for certifying moment of time, our nation and our and, in severe cases, disfigurement and we had of avoiding contact with this that he is “clean,” and therefore able world are sorely in need of Jesus’ deformities. potentially lethal disease. Now, vaccines to return to everyday life, be strictly healing touch. According to St. Mark: “A leper are available and they are slowly being followed. Then, as now, the protocols Let’s do everything we can to bring came to Jesus and kneeling down made available to all, but the original for ensuring public safety were vitally kindness and compassion into situations begged him and said, ‘If you wish, cautionary measures continue to be vitally important no matter how irritating or where resentment and division are you can make me clean.’ Moved important to public health and safety here inconvenient they may have seemed. festering. Let’s pray that our nation’s with pity, he stretched out his hand, in the U.S. and throughout the world. Of course, St. Mark tells us that in leaders, and all of us, will put into touched him, and said to him, ‘I do As a result of the current pandemic, his excitement the newly cured man practice Jesus’ command that we should will it. Be made clean.’ The leprosy we can better understand the significance ignored Jesus’ stern warning “and love each other, forgive our enemies left him immediately, and he was made of Jesus’ simple, but powerful, actions. began to publicize the whole matter” and pray for those who persecute us. clean. Then, warning him sternly, he By reaching out and touching the leper, (Mk 1:45). The result of this created Even while observing the protocols dismissed him at once” (Mk 1:40-43). he was violating a strict taboo. In his problems for Jesus. As we read in this of social distancing, let’s touch one Leprosy (Hansen’s disease) is compassion for the man’s suffering, Jesus Sunday’s Gospel, the man “spread the another’s lives with acts of simple relatively rare today, but where it occurs employed the healing power of God and report abroad so that it was impossible kindness and generosity. it spreads by airborne respiratory droplets affirmed the man’s faith: “If you wish, for Jesus to enter a town openly. He Let’s heal the wounds caused by social (coughs or sneezes) and must be treated you can make me clean” (Mk 1:40). remained outside in deserted places, unrest, economic hardship and political by medical professionals to prevent However, there’s more to this story and people kept coming to him from differences. Let’s come together as sisters serious illness and death. In Jesus’ time, than meets the eye. Why does Jesus everywhere” (Mk 1:45). and brothers in Christ by setting aside our and until very recently, there was no cure immediately dismiss the newly cured In our cynicism, we may be tempted differences and working together to build for this horrible disease, which is why leper, “sternly warning him”? (Mk to quote the old saying, “No good communities of justice and peace. men, women and children with leprosy 1:43) Why does he say, “See that you deed goes unpunished,” but in reality May the Lord’s healing touch unite were isolated from the rest of society. tell no one anything, but go, show this incident in the life of Jesus should us and heal all our wounds. Although the stories of Jesus curing yourself to the priest and offer for your remind us that, while our reactions St. Joseph, patron of the Church, lepers are familiar to us, their impact cleansing what Moses prescribed; that often have unintended, unwelcome pray for us. †

El toque sanador del Señor puede unirnos y curar heridas La lectura del Evangelio del próximo hemos experimentado los horrores purificación, para testimonio a ellos” menudo consecuencias no deseadas, fin de semana (Mc 1:40-45), sexto causados por la pandemia de la COVID- (Mc 1:44). la gracia de Dios es suficiente para domingo del tiempo ordinario, describe 19. Hoy en día deberíamos comprender superar cualquier dificultad. A Jesús uno de los muchos casos en los que Cuando nos encontramos por mejor la importancia de seguir los se le impidió entrar en los pueblos Jesús cura a un hombre que padece primera vez con esta plaga moderna protocolos obligatorios a la hora vecinos, pero la gente de todas formas lepra, una enfermedad contagiosa que hace más de un año, no había cura. de tratar enfermedades mortales y se le acercó. Los tocó, y sus corazones, afecta la piel, las mucosas y los nervios, El aislamiento, usar mascarillas, contagiosas. Jesús está dispuesto mentes y cuerpos fueron sanados. provoca manchas y bultos en la piel desinfectarnos frecuentemente las a salirse de la norma para llevar a Dios sabe que, especialmente en este y, en casos graves, desfiguración y manos y todo lo que tocamos era cabo la curación del hombre, pero momento que estamos atravesando, deformidades. la única esperanza que teníamos de insiste en que se sigan estrictamente nuestro país y nuestro mundo necesitan Según san Marcos: “Y vino a él un evitar el contacto con esta enfermedad los procedimientos adecuados para urgentemente el toque sanador de Jesús. leproso implorándole, y de rodillas le potencialmente letal. Ahora existen cerciorarse de que esté “limpio” y, por Hagamos todo lo posible para dijo: vacunas y poco a poco se ponen a tanto, sea capaz de volver a la vida llevar la bondad y la compasión a las —Si quieres, puedes limpiarme. disposición de todos, pero las medidas cotidiana. Entonces, como ahora, los situaciones en las que el resentimiento Jesús, movido a compasión, extendió de precaución originales siguen siendo protocolos para garantizar la seguridad y la división se están enconando. la mano, lo tocó y le dijo:—Quiero; de vital importancia para la salud y la pública eran de vital importancia, Recemos para que los líderes del país, sé limpio. Y al instante desapareció la seguridad pública aquí en los Estados por muy irritantes o incómodos que y todos nosotros, pongamos en práctica lepra de él, y quedó limpio. En seguida Unidos y en todo el mundo. pudieran parecer. el mandamiento de Jesús de amarnos lo despidió, después de amonestarlo” A raíz de la actual pandemia, Por supuesto, san Marcos nos dice los unos a los otros, perdonar a nuestros (Mc 1:40-43). podemos comprender mejor el que, en su euforia, el hombre recién enemigos y orar por los que nos La lepra (enfermedad de Hansen) significado de las sencillas pero curado ignoró la amonestación de persiguen. es relativamente rara hoy en día, poderosas acciones de Jesús. Al Jesús y “comenzó a proclamar y a Podemos tocar la vida de los pero cuando se produce se propaga acercarse y tocar a los leprosos, estaba difundir mucho el hecho” (Mc 1:45). demás con actos de simple bondad a través de gotitas respiratorias (tos transgrediendo un tabú estricto. En El resultado de esto le trajo problemas y generosidad, y al mismo tiempo o estornudos) y debe ser tratada por su compasión por el sufrimiento de a Jesús. Como leemos en el Evangelio cumplir con los protocolos de profesionales médicos para evitar la humanidad, Jesús empleó el poder de este domingo, el hombre comenzó a distanciamiento social. enfermarse de gravedad e incluso la curativo de Dios y afirmó la fe del “difundir mucho el hecho, de modo que Sanemos las heridas causadas por muerte. En tiempos de Jesús, y hasta hombre: “Si quieres, puedes limpiarme” Jesús ya no podía entrar abiertamente el malestar social, las dificultades hace muy poco, no había cura para (Mc 1:40). en ninguna ciudad sino que se quedaba económicas y las diferencias políticas; esta horrible enfermedad, por lo que a Sin embargo, esta historia no es afuera en lugares despoblados. Y venían unámonos como hermanas y hermanos los hombres, las mujeres y los niños tan sencilla como parece. ¿Por qué a él de todas partes” (Mc 1:45). en Cristo dejando de lado nuestras con lepra se los aislaba del resto de la Jesús despide inmediatamente al En nuestro cinismo, quizá nos diferencias y trabajando juntos para sociedad. leproso recién curado, “después de sintamos tentados a citar el viejo refrán: construir comunidades de justicia y paz. Aunque estamos familiarizados amonestarlo”? (Mc 1:43) ¿Por qué le “Ninguna buena acción queda impune,” Que el toque sanador del Señor nos con los relatos de las curaciones de dice: “Mira, no digas nada a nadie. Más pero en realidad este incidente en la una y cure todas nuestras heridas. leprosos que realizó Jesús, su impacto bien ve, muéstrate al sacerdote y ofrece vida de Jesús debería recordarnos que, San José, patrón de la Iglesia, ora es seguramente mayor ahora que todos lo que mandó Moisés en cuanto a tu aunque nuestras reacciones tienen a por nosotros. † Page 6 The Criterion Friday, February 12, 2021

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

February 17 how others can help kids an immigration attorney March 3 tour of center to follow. March 9 Calvary Mausoleum and families in their discuss current policies MCL Cafeteria, 5520 Information: 317-829-6800, Monthly Virtual Taizé Chapel, 435 W. Troy Ave., community, free. Registration: and how individuals Castleton Corner Lane, www.womenscarecenter.org. Prayer Service, 7-8 p.m., Indianapolis. Monthly familychangeseverything. can advocate for future Indianapolis. Solo Seniors, silent and spoken prayers, Mass, 2 p.m. Information: eventbrite.com. Information: needs, free. Registration: 5 p.m., Catholic, educational, Our Lady of the Greenwood simple music, silence. Link: 317-784-4439 or www. Simona Reising, 317-236-1457 familychangeseverything. charitable and social singles— Church, 335 S. Meridian St., Taize.SistersofProvidence.org. catholiccemeteries.cc. or [email protected]. eventbrite.com. Information: separated, widowed or Greenwood. First Friday Information: 812-535-2952, Simona Reising, 317-236-1457 divorced—age 50 and older, bilingual celebration of the [email protected]. February 18 The Third Option virtual or [email protected]. new members welcome, also Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, St. Joseph Church, 1401 marriage crisis/enrichment call about regular Friday night Mass, 5:45 p.m., exposition March 11 S. Mickley Ave., Indianapolis. class, “Understanding February 27 dinner events. Information: 317- of the Blessed Sacrament, The Third Option virtual Third Thursday Adoration, Expectations,” 7-8 p.m., Sisters of Providence White 796-8605 or 317-243-0777. following Mass until 9 p.m., marriage crisis/enrichment interceding for women Thursdays bi-weekly through Violet Center “Virtual sacrament of reconciliation class, “Control Issues,” experiencing crisis pregnancy, May 20, viewing all sessions Alpaca Encounter,” via March 4 available. Information: 317-750- 7-8 p.m., Thursdays 11 a.m.-7 p.m., with Mass at recommended but not required, Zoom, 10-11 a.m., $15 plus The Third Option virtual 7309, [email protected]. bi-weekly through May 20, 5:45 p.m. no registration needed, free. optional $10 per alpaca marriage crisis/enrichment viewing all sessions Log on: carmelthirdoption. ornament felting kit, register class, “Re-Defining March 6 recommended but not Our Lady of Peace Cemetery org/web then click on link by Feb. 19. Registration and Power Struggle,” 7-8 p.m., John Paul II Parish, required, no registration and Mausoleum, 9001 at top of page. Information: information: 812-535-2952, Thursdays bi-weekly through St. Paul Chapel, 216 needed, free. Log on: Haverstick Road, Indianapolis. carmelthirdoption.org/web, [email protected], www. May 20, viewing all sessions Schellers Ave., Sellersburg. carmelthirdoption.org/ Monthly Mass, 2 p.m. or Keith Ingram, kingram@ spsmw.org/event recommended but not required, First Saturday Marian web then click on link at Information: 317-574-8898 or aicinvest.com or 317-324-8446. no registration needed, free. Log Devotion, 8 a.m. rosary, top of page. Information: www.catholiccemeteries.cc. Annual Shawe and Pope on: carmelthirdoption.org/web meditation, prayer; 8:30 a.m. carmelthirdoption.org/web, February 25 John Virtual Auction Dinner, then click on link at top of page. Mass with confessions prior. or Keith Ingram, kingram@ “Family Changes “Family Changes benefitting Prince of Peace Information: carmelthirdoption. Information: 812-246-3522. aicinvest.com or 317-324-8446. Everything: Supporting Everything: Current Trends schools in Madison, two org/web, or Keith Ingram, Kids and Families in Our and What’s Next?” webinar, raffles, prizes up to $10,000, [email protected] or St. Michael Church, 145 March 17 Community,” webinar, sponsored by archdiocesan 200 raffle tickets at $200 each. 317-324-8446. St. Michael Blvd., Brookville. Calvary Mausoleum sponsored by archdiocesan Catholic Charities Social To buy tickets, donate items or First Saturday Marian Chapel, 435 W. Troy Ave., Catholic Charities - Social Concerns office, noon-1 p.m., sponsor event: 812-273-5835 March 5 Devotional Prayer Group, Indianapolis. Monthly Concerns, noon-1 p.m., archdiocesan Refugee and ext. 246, or 812-801-1660. Women’s Care Center, 4901 Mass, devotional prayers, Mass, 2 p.m. Information: licensed foster parents Immigrant Services policy Online auction: qtego.net/ W. 86th St., Indianapolis. First rosary, 8 a.m. Information: 317-784-4439 or www. share their stories and advisor Laura McCarter and qlink/popauction21. Friday Mass, 5 p.m., optional 765-647-5462. catholiccemeteries.cc. †

Mount St. Francis offering six ‘Letting Go’ Zoom sessions starting on Feb. 18 A series of six Zoom sessions called emotional “stuff” that can get in the “Letting Go” will be offered by Mount way of truly living a spiritual life. Saint Francis Center for Spirituality The series will also explore practices from 7-8:30 p.m. on Feb. 18 and 25, for freeing up space for the Holy and March 4, 11, 18 and 25. Spirit to work within during this ANNIVERSARIES The sessions will be led by Judy Lenten season. edding Ribar, the center’s associate director. Participants may register for all six W The series offers participants an virtual sessions for $100 or choose opportunity to consider during Lent individual sessions for $20 each. what might be getting in the way of a To register online, go to deeper, more peacefully balanced life. mountsaintfrancis.org/letting-go. For Years Jim and Linda (Little) Wenning, members of Each week will explore an questions or to register by phone, call Prince of Peace Parish in Madison, will celebrate attachment to physical, mental and 812-923-0177. † 55 their 55th wedding anniversary on Feb. 12. The couple was married in Holy Family Church in Oldenburg on Feb. 12, 1966. † Benedict Inn offering six ‘Combating Racism’ sessions starting on Feb. 23 Registration is open to join all racism to create a more racially just and or any of six in-person sessions on compassionate society. The series will “Combating Racism” at the Benedict explore faith-based and public policy Inn Retreat and Conference Center, strategies and organizations that are 1402 Southern Ave., in Beech Grove, leading local and national from 7-8:30 p.m. on Feb. 23, March 2, anti-racist initiatives; examine personal 9, 16, 23 and 30. perspectives on white privilege; and Kim and Ann (Todd) Curtis, members of The sessions will be led by engage in prayer practices seeking St. Mary (Immaculate Conception) Parish in Years Dr. Mary Beth Riner, a professor at racial equity and justice in the United Rushville, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary Indiana University-Purdue University States. 50 on Jan. 16. Indianapolis’ School of Nursing. She Session topics include white The couple was married at St. Mary (Immaculate has been on a racial-literacy journey identity development; racial awareness Conception) Church in Rushville on Jan. 16, 1971. for the past five years. Increasing experience activity; Scriptural basis They have three children: Kate, Andy and Brady awareness of the harm resulting for anti-racism work; the legacy of Curtis. from racialized public policies and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.; cultural They also have four grandchildren. † community practices led her to develop arts and literature of people of color; an experiential education offering for health disparities and social conditions; those seeking faith-based approaches to policing and criminal justice; and reducing the harm of racism. She has becoming a white anti-racist ally. led this program in parish and prayer The cost for all six sessions is $125, Daniel and Irene (Yates) Emery, members group settings. or $25 for individual sessions. of Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish in Indianapolis, This interactive program is for those To register or for more information, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on who want to explore how to begin go to benedictinn.org/programs or call July 25, 2020. or continue the work of dismantling 317-788-7581. † The couple was married in Sacred Heart of Jesus Church in Indianapolis on July 25, 1970. They have two children: Cynthia Rose and Daniel For a complete list of retreats as reported to Emery. Retreats and Programs The Criterion, log on to www.archindy.org/retreats. They also have three grandchildren. †

February 25 535-2952, provctr@spsmw. open 5:30 p.m., painting Scriptures of Lent/Spring org, www.spsmw.org/event. instruction from Conventual virtual study via Zoom, Franciscan Father Vincent second of six stand-alone February 26 Petersen 6-9 p.m., subject Announcements for couples celebrating 50, 55, 60, 65, 70 or more years of sessions (March 4, 11, 18 and Mount Saint Francis matter changes monthly, marriage are accepted. Go to bit.ly/2M4MQms or call 317-236-1585. 25), offered by Providence Center for Spirituality, 101 cheese and light snacks, Spirituality & Conference St. Anthony Dr., bring your own beverage, Center, 6:15-7:45 p.m., Mt. St. Francis. Painting $40 per session. Registration: Events and retreats can be submitted to The Criterion by logging on to $5/session, register by Feb. 22. with Padre, last Friday mountsaintfrancis.org/retreats www.archindy.org/events/submission, or by mailing us at 1400 N. Meridian St., Information, registration: 812- monthly through May, doors or 812-923-8817. † Indianapolis, IN 46202, ATTN: Ann Lewis, or by fax at 317-236-1593. The Criterion Friday, February 12, 2021 Page 7 The Face of Mercy By Daniel Conway Pope Francis prays for integrity in communications In his message for the 55th World Our reliance on the various news and not only listened to his words; they where they are and as they are. Day of Communications on Jan. 24, entertainment media (especially social watched him speak. Indeed in him—the To “accept the compelling witness Pope Francis combined praise “for the media) to keep us informed, shape our incarnate Logos—the Word took on of others” does not mean passive courage of journalists, camera operators, opinions and influence the way we act a face; the invisible God let himself acceptance. It means letting the words editors, directors—who often risk their has some disturbing implications. be seen, heard and touched, as John and example of Jesus guide us as we lives in carrying out their work” with “In communications, nothing can himself tells us [1 Jn 1:1-3]. The word seek to discover the truth “in all areas of a stern warning about the dangers of ever completely replace seeing things is effective only if it is ‘seen,’ only if it [personal and] public life, in business as online communications where “the risk in person,” the pope said. “Some things engages us in experience, in dialogue.” well as politics,” the pontiff said. of misinformation being spread on social can only be learned through firsthand For Pope Francis, truly effective Pope Francis concluded his message media has become evident to everyone. experience. We do not communicate communications require that the reader with a very powerful prayer. Let’s We have known for some time that merely with words, but with our eyes, the or viewer be actively engaged, and paste these words on our computer and news and even images can be easily tone of our voice and our gestures.” not simply passive, in what is being television screens. Let’s bear them in manipulated, for any number of reasons, By relying on printed reports and reported or viewed in the media. This mind always: at times simply for sheer narcissism.” electronic images prepared for us by necessarily involves “encounter” and Lord, teach us to move beyond Thanks to the efforts of many third parties, we risk giving ourselves genuine dialogue. It means being open ourselves, and to set out in search of truth. communications professionals, “we now over to those who do not value our to differing points of view while never Teach us to go out and see, teach us to know, for example, about the hardships individual best interests or the common sacrificing fundamental principles. listen, not to entertain prejudices or draw endured by persecuted minorities in good. “We think of how much empty “We have books in our hands, but hasty conclusions. various parts of the world, numerous cases rhetoric abounds, even in our time, in all the facts before our eyes,” said Teach us to go where no one else of oppression and injustice inflicted on the areas of public life, in business as well as St. Augustine in speaking of will go, to take the time needed to poor and on the environment, and many politics,” the pope said. fulfillment of the prophecies found in understand, to pay attention to the wars that otherwise would be overlooked.” To counteract the negative effects of sacred Scripture. So too, the Gospel essentials, not to be distracted by the The pope observed that “it would “fake news” regardless of its sources, comes alive in our own day, whenever superfluous, to distinguish deceptive be a loss not only for news reporting, Pope Francis called attention to the we accept the compelling witness of appearances from the truth. but for society and for democracy as a preaching of Jesus. “Jesus’ attractiveness people whose lives have been changed Grant us the grace to recognize your whole, were those voices to fade away. to those who met him depended on the by their encounter with Jesus. dwelling places in our world and the Our entire human family would be truth of his preaching,” the pope said. For two millennia, a chain of such honesty needed to tell others what we impoverished.” “Yet the effectiveness of what he said encounters has communicated the have seen. At the same time, the Holy Father was inseparable from how he looked at attractiveness of the Christian adventure. insisted that “nothing replaces seeing others, from how he acted toward them, The challenge that awaits us, then, is to (Daniel Conway is a member of things at first hand.” and even from his silence. The disciples communicate by encountering people, The Criterion’s editorial committee.) †

“Jesus of Nazareth, by his words, his actions, and his entire person reveals the mercy of God.” –Pope Francis, “Misericordiae Vultus” (“The Face of Mercy”)

“Jesús de Nazaret con su palabra, con sus gestos y con toda su persona revela la misericordia de Dios.” –Papa Francisco, “Misericordiae Vultus” (“El rostro de la misericordia”)

El rostro de la misericordia/Daniel Conway El papa Francisco reza por la integridad en las comunicaciones En su mensaje para la 55.ª Jornada posibilidad de una información de el Papa—pero la eficacia de lo que cristiana. El desafío que nos espera Mundial de las Comunicaciones primera mano y oportuna.” decía era inseparable de su mirada, de es, por lo tanto, el de comunicar Sociales, el 24 de enero, el papa Nuestra dependencia de los sus actitudes y también de sus silencios. encontrando a las personas donde están y Francisco combinó elogios a la distintos medios de comunicación y Los discípulos no escuchaban sólo sus como son. valentía de “periodistas, camarógrafos, de entretenimiento (especialmente de palabras, lo miraban hablar. De hecho, Aceptar «el testimonio límpido» de montadores, directores que a menudo las redes sociales) para mantenernos en Él—el Logos encarnado—la Palabra los demás no implica una aceptación trabajan corriendo grandes riesgos” informados, formar nuestras opiniones e se hizo Rostro, el Dios invisible se dejó pasiva. Significa dejar que las palabras con una severa advertencia sobre los influir en nuestra manera de actuar tiene ver, oír y tocar, como escribe el propio y el ejemplo de Jesús nos guíen para peligros de las comunicaciones en algunas implicaciones inquietantes. Juan (1 Jn 1:1-3). La palabra es eficaz descubrir la verdad “en cualquier ámbito línea, donde “se han vuelto evidentes “En la comunicación, nada puede solamente si se ‘ve,’ sólo si te involucra de la vida [personal y] pública, tanto en para todos también los riesgos de sustituir completamente el hecho de ver en una experiencia, en un diálogo.” el comercio como en la política.” una comunicación social carente de en persona,” afirma el Papa. “Algunas Para el papa Francisco, una El papa Francisco concluye su controles. Hemos descubierto, ya desde cosas se pueden aprender sólo con la comunicación verdaderamente eficaz mensaje con una oración muy poderosa. hace tiempo, cómo las noticias y las experiencia. No se comunica, de hecho, requiere que el lector o el espectador Pongamos estas palabras en las pantallas imágenes son fáciles de manipular, por solamente con las palabras, sino con participe activamente, y no simplemente de nuestras computadoras y televisores miles de motivos, a veces sólo por un los ojos, con el tono de la voz, con los de forma pasiva, en lo que se informa o para tenerlas siempre presentes: banal narcisismo.” gestos.” se ve en los medios de comunicación. Señor, enséñanos a salir de nosotros Gracias a los esfuerzos de muchos Al confiar en los informes impresos Esto implica necesariamente un mismos, y a encaminarnos hacia la profesionales de la comunicación, y en las imágenes electrónicas que nos «encuentro» y un verdadero diálogo. búsqueda de la verdad. “conocemos, por ejemplo, las difíciles preparan terceros, corremos el riesgo Significa estar abierto a puntos de Enséñanos a ir y ver, enséñanos a condiciones de las minorías perseguidas de entregarnos a quienes no valoran vista diferentes sin sacrificar nunca los escuchar, a no cultivar prejuicios, a no en varias partes del mundo; los nuestros intereses individuales, ni el bien principios fundamentales. sacar conclusiones apresuradas. innumerables abusos e injusticias contra común. “Pensemos en cuánta elocuencia “En nuestras manos hay libros, en Enséñanos a ir allá donde nadie los pobres y contra la creación que se vacía abunda también en nuestro tiempo, nuestros ojos hechos,” afirmaba san quiere ir, a tomarnos el tiempo para han denunciado; las muchas guerras en cualquier ámbito de la vida pública, Agustín exhortando a encontrar en la entender, a prestar atención a lo olvidadas que se han contado.” tanto en el comercio como en la política,” realidad el cumplimiento de las profecías esencial, a no dejarnos distraer por lo El Papa señala que “sería una señala el Papa. presentes en las Sagradas Escrituras. superfluo, a distinguir la apariencia pérdida no sólo para la información, Para contrarrestar los efectos negativos Así, el Evangelio se repite hoy cada vez engañosa de la verdad. sino para toda la sociedad y para la de las noticias falsas, independientemente que recibimos el testimonio límpido de Danos la gracia de reconocer tus democracia si estas voces desaparecieran: de sus fuentes, el papa Francisco llama personas cuya vida ha cambiado por el moradas en el mundo y la honestidad de un empobrecimiento para nuestra nuestra atención sobre la predicación de encuentro con Jesús. contar lo que hemos visto. humanidad.” Jesús. “La fuerte atracción que ejercía Desde hace más de dos mil años Al mismo tiempo, el Santo Padre Jesús en quienes lo encontraban dependía es una cadena de encuentros la que (Daniel Conway es integrante del comité insiste en que nada sustituye “la de la verdad de su predicación,—explica comunica la fascinación de la aventura editorial de The Criterion.) † Page 8 The Criterion Friday, February 12, 2021

you will always see him at church,” said NBA Markward, a member of St. Elizabeth continued from page 1 Ann Seton Parish in Richmond. “He is not afraid to post something Now that dream was within hours of about God on social media, and he becoming a reality on this day of praises God for his blessings. In today’s Nov. 18, 2020—the day of the NBA society, there are many people that draft. Looking into the camera, Bane would shy away from this for fear of was trying to describe how he was being viewed differently.” feeling, and what it would mean for Markward then shares two of his him—one of the 20 graduates of the favorite stories about Bane, stories 2016 class of Seton Catholic High that took place in settings far from the School in Richmond—to be drafted. spotlight. “You can’t really put it into words,” Bane said into the camera. “It’s starting Living a life with character to hit now. I mean, looking here at the The first one occurred last summer home I grew up in, being in the city when Markward installed a new I grew up in, my family here, close basketball goal at his house so his friends here. It’s indescribable. It’s 13-year-old son Nic and his friends indescribable.” could play. Later that night, in that same house, “My son thought it would be neat if Bane sat next to his great-grandmother, Desmond signed it,” Markward recalled. Fabbie, in a room filled with family and “I ended up reaching out and asking friends, watching the televised broadcast Desmond if he would stop by and sign of the NBA draft. And when the NBA it quickly. He agreed. When he arrived, commissioner announced that Bane was he ended up staying for 1 1/2 hours, the last pick of the first round, the room playing basketball with my son and the erupted in cheers, smiles and pure joy as neighborhood kids and adults. It was an Bane hugged his great-grandmother. experience that I know many will never The only regret of the day was that forget. My neighbors were shocked at his great-grandfather, Bob, wasn’t how humble he was.” physically part of the celebration. He Bane enjoyed that moment, too. died on July 20 after contracting the He said being there was just his way COVID-19 virus. Still, Bob’s photo was of thanking Markward for letting him prominently displayed on a table in use the Seton Catholic gym for early front of where Bane sat. And he had the morning workouts to improve his game. feeling that his great-grandfather—who “I thought that was the least I could was one of his coaches in his youth— do for letting me get shots in and stay was with him, celebrating the dream that in shape,” Bane recalled. “They live less came true. than a mile from my house. We had to break the goal in. So we played a couple ‘I’ve tried to make the most of it’ of games of 21 and H-O-R-S-E. It was Fast-forward to Jan. 31, 2021—two good.” days before Bane returned home to So was the visit he made to his old Indiana as a member of the Memphis high school on the day of the NBA draft. Grizzlies, to play for the first time Bane returned to the Seton Catholic against the team he rooted for as a child gym to talk to the current students and a youth, the Indiana Pacers. about his journey—his way of giving Less than two months into the season, back for what he calls “the close-knit Bane was already being hailed by NBA connection” he had with students and analysts as “among the surprises of the staff during his four years there. 2020 rookie class.” In a game against “I told them I was sitting in those Desmond Bane and his great-grandmother, Fabbie Bane, are all smiles as he holds up the the San Antonio Spurs on Jan. 30, same seats as them not long ago,” Bane sectional trophy that the boys’ basketball team of Seton Catholic High School in Richmond won he helped the Grizzlies to a 129-112 said about the basic theme of his talk. “I in 2016. (Submitted photo) win, hitting 6 of 8 shots, including all told them, ‘Whatever dream you have, 3 three-pointers that he took. Yet in a do it, and you’ll live a happy life.’ ” “I think there were only 1,400 fans Connersville, about 30 minutes away. phone interview with The Criterion the Living your dream is just part of his there for the game [because of COVID-19 He also told Bane there was no pressure next day, Bane approached his strong approach to life. Living your life with restrictions], and we had two sections to go. start to the season with humility. character is equally important to him. A that were pretty much Wayne County and “He showed up and surprised them. “If I said it was easy, I’d be lying pre-draft analysis of him noted, “Bane Richmond,” said Jurgens, who coached And he stayed for their whole birthday to you,” he said. “It’s been an extreme is regularly praised for his character and Bane for four years at Seton. party—two to three hours,” Jurgens said. learning curve. We’ve had some injuries approach to the game.” “There were people wearing “I have so many stories of him helping and some other things come up, and I’ve “Character is huge, whether you Desmond Bane jerseys, and you could people, and he didn’t have to do it. He had the opportunity. I’ve tried to make play basketball or not,” Bane said. hear everybody yelling for him. When went to so many little kids’ games just the most of it.” “The person you are will last longer he would get in or make a shot, the to be there for them.” That approach defines Bane. He than playing basketball. My great- place would get louder for him.” Bane also had a dramatic impact on played at one of the smallest high grandmother instilled that in me at an Bane scored 16 points and dished out his high school teammates. schools in Indiana and became an early age. Whether it’s the janitor or the five assists during the game which the “He’s always that person who wants Indiana All-Star. He received only one CEO, you treat them all with respect.” Pacers won, 134-116. to make everyone around him better,” scholarship offer to continue playing Markward marvels at Bane’s When the game ended, Bane didn’t Jurgens said. “He was the first player at a major college—Texas Christian willingness to return to Seton that day. have much time to linger on the court in the gym and the last one to leave. University (TCU)—and he was named to “It is the biggest day of his life as he is because of NBA guidelines concerning When you have that out of your best the Big 12’s all-conference first team in about to get drafted by an NBA team, and the coronavirus. Still, he looked up and player, it’s easy to hold everyone else two seasons. And now he’s in the NBA, he took the time out of his day to speak to pointed to the Seton-Richmond-Wayne accountable.” making a significant contribution as a the student body about his journey through County contingent, letting them know he Bane’s high school coach shared one rookie. Seton and TCU, and about his faith and appreciated them being there and cheering more tribute to him. Jurgens noted that He has made “the most of it” at every never giving up on your dreams. for him. Then he did something that his 9-year-old son, Tripp, is the proud turn, yet he deflects the credit back to “Desmond has remained a humble touched Jurgens and others even more. owner of a Desmond Bane Memphis his great-grandparents. person throughout his journey. His “He ended up giving his jersey to his Grizzlies’ jersey. As a father, Jurgens “My great-grandparents did a great approach to life, how he treats others uncle, Tony, in the crowd,” Jurgens said. views Bane as a worthy hero for his son. job of instilling values in me,” said and his faith are admirable.” “He gave his jersey to his uncle so he “He’s an old soul raised by his Bane, who makes a point of calling his Those traits help explain why a few could give it to his great-grandmother great-grandparents,” Jurgens said. “They great-grandmother at least once a day hundred people made the trip from because she wasn’t able to make it to raised him right, for sure. He listened to and usually twice. Richmond to Indianapolis on Feb. 2 to the game.” what they taught him about becoming a “It’s indescribable the things I watch Bane play his first pro game in Soon, Jurgens was sharing another better person, staying humble, working learned from them. There’s not a lot of Indiana—against the Pacers in Bankers favorite moment about Bane. Everyone hard and being kind to people. He took stuff they haven’t seen. The experiences Life Fieldhouse. who knows him seems to have more all that to heart. He gives back. He they’ve seen helped me think about life than a few stories they want to tell about doesn’t forget people or where he came and what you want to get out of it.” ‘A dream come true’ him. from.” For Bane, that goal includes making As he prepared for the game against Bane says he never could. the most of his Catholic faith. the Pacers, Bane said, “It’s going to be ‘He doesn’t forget people or where he “The people who I have in my career “It serves as my backbone when a dream come true. I grew up rooting came from’ and my life are special people,” he said. things are going great and not going for the Pacers. To be on the court and When Bane was a senior at Seton Those are the people I’ve known my great,” he said. “You always have it be in that game is going to be surreal. Catholic, a friend approached Jurgens whole life. to lean on. I wouldn’t be where I am I wouldn’t be surprised if there were a and asked if Bane would make an “There’s no reason to act differently without it.” couple hundred people [from Richmond] appearance at a birthday party for her because of the position I’m in now. I’m As the principal of Seton Catholic there.” twin daughters, because the little girls extremely grateful for the position I’m High School, John Markward has seen There were, and maybe a couple were in awe of him as a star basketball in, and I’m extremely grateful to have how Bane lives his faith. hundred more beyond that, said Josh player. Jurgens told Bane about the those people around me. They’ve been “I am truly amazed by Desmond’s Jurgens, the head coach of Seton Catholic request after a Saturday practice, following me my whole life and make faith and passion. When he is in town, High School’s boys’ basketball team. adding that the birthday party was in me feel supported.” † The Criterion Friday, February 12, 2021 Page 9 Learn from Mother Theodore when it comes to facing challenges By Natalie Hoefer several years. All during her early trials in Flavin noted that America, Mother Theodore stood almost life’s challenges offer an Call it the “new normal” or call it alone.” opportunity to “turn away, or “unprecedented.” Either way, whether due There were many such “early trials” to keep walking and trusting to the COVID-19 pandemic or social and in Indiana for the saint-to-be. Citing in God. Mother Theodore political change, life in the last few years a volume on the local congregation’s shared the peace and joy has brought new challenges to most—if history, Sister Jan spoke of Mother she found in trusting in not all—Catholics in central and southern Theodore’s anxiety “about the future of Providence. Indiana. the community for all kinds of reasons. “Remember what Mother Fortunately, there is a source to turn She was distressed at the prejudice she Theodore said: ‘We are not to for wise guidance in facing such felt from the people, she felt isolated from called upon to do all the good challenges. A local source. A holy source. France and Mother Mary, [who] wouldn’t that is possible, but only to Her name is Mother Theodore answer her letters for months.” that which we can do.’ ” Guérin—now St. Theodora—founder of And then there was the “displeasure As the daughter of the Sisters of Providence of Saint Mary- of the bishop,” said Sister Jan. His immigrants, Providence Sister of-the-Woods near Terre Haute. disagreements with, lack of support of Jessica Vitente related to the If anyone can relate to challenges, it is and disrespect for Mother Theodore were “courage and confidence” Mother Theodore. so great that at one point he locked her in it took for the saint to And if there is a profound example in a room for the day and excommunicated move to a foreign country how to face struggles, even contemporary her from the congregation she founded. with a different culture and ones, it is St. Theodora. Despite the treatment she’d been language. Such was the topic of a virtual session shown, when the bishop released her Noting the “social justice called “Facing Challenges with St. from the room, “she kissed his ring and issues that have resurfaced Mother Theodore Guérin” on Feb. 4. It bowed and showed him great respect, and reopened wounds,” Sister was led by several Sisters of Providence even though she disagreed with him,” said Jessica said she finds in and Providence Associates. Sister Jan. Mother Theodore “inspiration “We have so much to learn from her There were non-relationship challenges in how she always got back in her ability to go beyond her hurt and St. Theodora faced as well. Providence up.” anger,” said Providence Sister Jan Craven Associate Helen Flavin spoke of a She cited several quotes during her presentation. devastating fire that destroyed the from St. Theodora from community in October 1842. which she draws inspiration: A display at the Shrine of Saint Mother Theodore Guerin at ‘Mother Theodore stood almost alone’ “The small community was just “Have confidence in Saint Mary-of-the-Woods in St. Mary-of-the-Woods cites one “I think it’s important to understand beginning to feel they had a chance to Providence that so far has of her quotes that not only applies to educators, but also to she had a lot of suffering before she succeed,” she said. “They had pupils, and never failed us. The way is anyone dealing with a difficult relationship. (File photo by came” to Indiana in 1840 at the age of they had a good harvest” stored in their not yet clear. Grope along Natalie Hoefer) 42 to start a mission to educate pioneer barns for the upcoming winter. slowly. Do not press matters; children, Sister Jan noted. A fire set by an arsonist destroyed be patient, be trustful.” She noted the connection between “the As a young girl, Anne-Therese Guérin everything, said Flavin—“the barn, the “If you lean with all your weight upon struggles that happened many years ago, experienced the loss of two brothers and harvest, all the farming implements.” Providence, you will find yourself and then the struggles that we have in the her father. By this point, the Sisters of Providence well-supported.” world today.” She became Sister St. Theodore of Saint Mary-of-the-Woods was a “You will see many things in new light Whether then or now, she said, after taking vows with the Sisters of separated congregation from the one in if you give the Holy Spirit free access to perseverance can be found by “trusting Providence in Ruille, France. There, she Ruille. Mother Theodore had to seek your mind and your heart.” in Providence, leaning right into “formed a close bond and significant funds to restore the community on her Sister Denise finds wisdom to handle Providence.” friendship” with the general superior, own. difficult relationships from Mother Michele Ashby, a member of St. John Mother Mary LeCoeur, said Providence So many challenges—yet the future Theodore’s quotes regarding education: Paul II Parish in Sellersburg, was also one Sister Denise Wilkinson during the saint did more than persevere. “A teacher accomplishes more by an act of more than 40 participants who joined session. “Mother Theodore’s life illustrates the of kindness than by an act of harshness” the Zoom session. She found comfort But a misunderstanding led to Mother peace and joy of walking with God, who and “Love the children first, and then in how St. Theodora persevered in Mary withdrawing her friendship from says, ‘I will hold you by the hand and teach them.” overcoming “huge obstacles to do God’s Sister St. Theodore. watch over you,’ ” said Flavin, quoting “Those were her key to winning hearts will. “At times” the rupture in their Isaiah 42:6. and minds,” she said, whether of students “[That] reassures me that God provides friendship “almost crushed” the young “Mother Theodore can inform our and parents or of other relationships. the way and the assistance when we woman, said Sister Denise, reading from lives. She walked with Divine Providence. Sister Gill Quigley, a member of the continue to trust in God’s plan for us.” a history of the Sisters of Providence She showed in life that, though it seems congregation of Sisters of Providence of Saint Mary-of-the-Woods. “And its we’re walking in the dark, we are moving in Ruille, joined the discussion from (To learn more about St. Theodora, go to duration made it more poignant, as forward, fully participating in God’s plan London, where it was midnight when the cutt.ly/HoosierSaintStory. For more of her Mother Mary’s opinion changed after for our lives.” Zoom session began. quotes, go to cutt.ly/HoosierSaintQuotes.) †

Confessions to be heard for 12 hours on Fridays in Lent in Batesville Deanery By Sean Gallagher Deanery and in faith communities in other parts of the noted that offering 12 hours of confession each Friday archdiocese. in the deanery is respectful of the continued need to Because of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, As dean of the Batesville Deanery, Father Keucher take precautions to keep people safe from the virus. many parishes in central and southern Indiana are not helped arrange having 12 hours of confession on a “There won’t be many people in these churches at scheduling penance services during the upcoming weekly basis during Lent. any one time,” Father Keucher said. “With 12 hours season of Lent. “I’m excited,” he said. “There’s every Friday during Lent, there’s so much time in there But faith communities in so much beautiful piety in this for people to mosey on over whenever they’re able to.” the Batesville Deanery in the deanery. There’s such a hunger for While he acknowledged that the pandemic has been southeastern part of the state will God’s mercy and the sacraments. a challenging time for the Church, Father Meyer said make the sacrament of penance There’s a generosity on the part that it might also be a spur to view ministry from new widely available to Catholics in the of the priests and parish life perspectives. region in another way. coordinators. It’s opening wide the “I hope this will pave a new way for the future Each Friday of Lent, priests doors of God’s mercy.” in which we’ll serve our people better and more in rotating locations will be Both priests think offering 12 effectively,” Father Meyer said. “I’m genuinely available to hear confessions for 12 hours of confession each Friday excited to see what’s going to happen in the many Fr. Jonathan Meyer consecutive hours from 9 a.m.- Fr. Michael Keucher of Lent is a good way for many people that will be able to go to confession and [in] 9 p.m. Catholics who have been away from my brother priests. What a grace for them to see their This has been a regular practice at All Saints Parish the sacraments for a long time because of the pandemic people reconciled to God and their hunger for the in Dearborn County for about 10 years. More than 100 to return to a more active living-out of the faith. sacraments.” † people on average have gone to confession there on the “This is a great first Friday of each month, according to Father Jonathan opportunity after so Meyer, All Saints’ pastor. many months where Batesville Deanery penance schedule Although he did not start the practice at the parish, many people needed Father Meyer said it fits well with one of his phrases to stay away,” Father The sacrament of penance will be • March 5—All Saints Parish, that “your best ability is availability.” Keucher said. “ … We’re available from 9 a.m.-9 p.m. each Friday St. Martin Campus, 8044 Yorkridge Rd. “If we want people to come to confession, we have at the point now where in Lent in the following locations in the in Guilford. to build a culture of availability around the sacrament,” more and more people Batesville Deanery. Camp RiverRidge • March 12—St. Mary Church, he said. “The concept of 12 hours says exactly what we can safely return to in Franklin County is operated by 1331 E. Hunter Robbins Way, in want people to believe about the Church. We’re there church. This Lent has the Legion of Christ religious order Greensburg. for you, and we’ll wait for you. It’s on your time, not the potential to be a real with priests from the order based in • March 19—St. Joseph Church in our time.” powerful experience of Cincinnati ministering there. Shelbyville. Father Michael Keucher has experienced the positive grace for people who • Feb. 19—St. Joseph Church, 228 • March 26—St. Lawrence Church, effect of offering the sacrament of penance for 12 have had to be away E. Hendricks St., in Shelbyville. 542 Walnut St., in Lawrenceburg. consecutive hours at St. Joseph Parish in Shelbyville, from the sacraments for • Feb. 26—Camp RiverRidge, 6145 • April 2—All Saints Parish, where he serves as pastor. quite a while.” Harvey Branch Road, in Oldenburg. St. Martin Campus. † It’s also happened in other parishes in the Batesville At the same time, he Page 10 The Criterion Friday, February 12, 2021

Archbishop, students and families celebrate gifts of Catholic education in Mass By John Shaughnessy relating to COVID-19, the number of people who came to the annual Mass As parents, Mike and Megan Smith was less than 100, a contrast to the look for opportunities to show their usual eucharistic celebration of Catholic four children how much they value their Schools Week that fills the cathedral Catholic faith and Catholic education. with students from all parts of the That’s why they decided to have their archdiocese. family attend the Catholic Schools Week Amid the changes and challenges Mass celebrated by Archbishop Charles created by the coronavirus crisis, C. Thompson on Feb. 3 at SS. Peter and Archbishop Thompson stressed to Paul Cathedral in Indianapolis. everyone the importance of having one “It’s always great to be at the ultimate, unifying focus. cathedral and be with the archbishop,” “When you return to your classroom, Mike said before the Mass, with Megan I’d invite you to take a good look at at his side and Zach, Justin, Adele and the crucifix hanging on the wall,” the Alex—all students at St. Lawrence archbishop said on the feast day of School in Indianapolis—sitting nearby. St. Blaise. “Let it remind you of Jesus “It gives us another opportunity to teach Christ’s victory over sin and death, them about the faith. over the challenges, hardships and the “And their Catholic education unfairness of this life, assuring us that goes hand-in-hand with us being our the best is yet to come—namely, eternal children’s first educators. We want them life in all its perfection of what is right, to be in a place where their Catholic just and holy. faith is foremost to them.” “May it inspire you to live your lives That connection of Catholic faith in prayerful relation to him, Jesus Christ, and education was also the focus of with a spirit of boldness and courage Megan and Mike Smith brought their family to the Catholic Schools Week Mass at SS. Peter and Archbishop Thompson’s homily. tempered by humility and self-surrender Paul Cathedral in Indianapolis on Feb. 3. Here, the couple kneels behind Adele and Alex—two of “Among all the ways and reasons for to the Lord. their four children who all attend St. Lawrence School in Indianapolis. Their two older children, celebrating Catholic Schools Week, the “May you live your lives of faith in Zach and Justin, were seated nearby. (Photo by John Shaughnessy) focus of our 2021 theme—‘Faith, such a way as to reflect the Excellence and Service’—provides a Christ-centered witness of St. Blaise in wonderful insight into how the nearly bringing healing, hope, peace and joy 21,000 students in our 68 Catholic to the lives of others.” schools are being prepared for faithful After the Mass, Archbishop discipleship and citizenship amid the Thompson posed for photos with challenges, hardships and the unfairness the families and school groups who of life,” the archbishop said. participated in the Catholic Schools “Faith in Jesus Christ is at the Week Mass. very core of all that we are about as For most of the photos, everyone Catholics—especially in our Catholic wore masks. For a few photos, masks schools. He is the very cornerstone were taken off briefly and then quickly of the foundation for our identity and replaced. Emma Morgan was among mission as Church, for which our the students from Roncalli High School schools exist. The excellence for which in Indianapolis who had a group photo we strive is not merely in academics taken with the archbishop. and athletics, but first and foremost in Besides that opportunity, she also following and witnessing to the person expressed her appreciation of the of Jesus Christ. archbishop’s homily and the Catholic “Authentic faith and pursuit of education she is receiving. excellence is ultimately realized in our “I liked how he talked about our willingness to serve others.” ability to go out and serve—and be the The archbishop shared that message light to other people,” said Emma, a with those who came to the cathedral senior at Roncalli and a member of and to those watching the Mass via St. Jude Parish in Indianapolis. After the Catholic Schools Week Mass at SS. Peter and Paul Cathedral in Indianapolis on livestream. The livestream option was “My Catholic education has shown Feb. 3, Archbishop Charles C. Thompson poses for a photo with a group from St. Michael-St. Gabriel available to all the Catholic schools in me not only to learn about my faith but Archangels School in Indianapolis: Natalie Godsil, left, student council moderator, Celine Manley, central and southern Indiana. how to live my life as a Christian—and Archbishop Thompson, Bethlehem Seyoum, Trevor Liston and principal Liz Ramos. For this photo, Because of concerns and restrictions take that faith and share it with others.” † everyone’s masks were taken off briefly and then quickly replaced. (Photo by John Shaughnessy)

Black Catholic is trailblazer in science; she has been geneticist for 56 years MEMPHIS, Tenn. (CNS)—As a child, Sheila Stiles Women from her generation are underrepresented in That summer, her advisers convinced her to go on a Jewell played outside of the public housing where the field of science. 30-hour Greyhound bus ride to pursue new opportunities. her family lived in Memphis. She felt one with nature Jewell would like to see more African American Because she was Black, she rode in the back of the bus weaving clover and catching bumblebees, not realizing females enter the field of science. She speaks at schools and even though the North was not officially segregated that she was really feeding her curiosity for science and and brings her sea creatures to show the students, hoping like Memphis at the time, there was nowhere to stay. the natural world. to spark an interest within them. Housing was not open to Blacks in the 1960s. Her During the days of segregation, the Catholic Church “My faith has been an important part of how I persisted advisers found a family for her to stay with. recruited her family, living at Lemoyne Owen Gardens at and persevered. I can’t imagine how I could have done it She was the first permanent African American female the time, to receive a Catholic education. It was a noble without my faith,” she said. Jewell still comes home often employee in Department of Interior in the Milford marine act that she credits with much of her success today. to be with family and together they attend Mass at biological laboratory, where she has had a 56-year career Working into her 70s, Jewell is a research geneticist St. Augustine Parish in South Memphis. and is still working today. at the U.S. NOAA Northeast Fisheries Science Center She remembers the times as a child in the segregated “I had a passion for genetics. Early in my career, there in Milford, Conn. NOAA Fisheries is an office of the South. When she went to Mass at a white church, she had were no role models in this male-dominated field,” she National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. to stand in the back. She also had to sit in the balcony at said. She studies shellfish, such as oysters, clams, scallops “Science has made my faith stronger,” she said. “The the movies, and drink out of separate drinking fountains. and mussels and works on restoring this population DNA structure is amazing. It is beautiful and is evidence “We came from humble beginnings,” she recalled. Her through genetics and breeding for better survival and of what God can do and has done. Look around you, it is mother, a teacher, was her first role model. She instilled growth. just wonderful!” in Jewell that an education was the key to a successful Women’s rights and civil rights have brought a lot of life. “We couldn’t always realize our dreams because of improvement, though there are still some barriers today, segregation, but that did not keep us from striving to be she said. somebody,” she said. She loves working with young people, “reaching out ‘If it were not for my faith, The people in the public housing where she lived and reaching back,” she said. “If you have a dream, follow I would not have been as always looked out for the children. “We were sheltered it, do what it takes, don’t be discouraged, don’t give up.” successful as I have been. and protected, it was a village.” They were always Jewell was a trailblazer. This past fall, she was inducted encouraged to go to church. into the Memphis Catholic High School Hall of Fame. God has been beside me Jewell studied science at Father Bertrand High School, For so many years, she drew on her faith. “If throughout this journey. I where she was valedictorian. It was there that Sister Mary it were not for my faith, I would not have been as could not have made this Kilian, a Sister of Charity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, successful as I have been. God has been beside me journey alone.’ encouraged her to go to college and major in biology. throughout this journey. I could not have made this She attended Xavier University in New Orleans, the journey alone. I am so thankful for my faith, my —Sheila Stiles Jewell only historically Black Catholic university in the U.S., family and my friends.” and then accepted an internship in Milford. She was When it has been difficult to persevere, “my faith has apprehensive about leaving all she knew. made a difference,” she added. † The Criterion Friday, February 12, 2021 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 © 2021 by FaithAlive! Catholic News Service. Be close to the saints during Lent to grow in holiness By Fr. Herbert Weber

I was in the town of Santiago Atitlan, Guatemala. With a backdrop of two volcanic mountains and facing one of the most beautiful lakes in the world, it was a picturesque place. It was also where, in 1981, Father Stanley Rother became the first American citizen to be martyred. A group of parishioners had joined me for a Sunday afternoon outing, coming from the neighboring town of San Lucas, to visit Father Rother’s former church. We were spending some time in Guatemala working with people in San Lucas, building cinder block stoves, constructing simple houses and getting to know the Kaqchikel people. Santiago Atitlan, so close, had a different culture. The people were Tz’utujil and many still spoke that language instead of Spanish. Father Rother, who had come from Oklahoma, had immersed himself into the people’s lives so fully that when members of his congregation were being killed during the Guatemalan civil war for their work for justice, he was in deep anguish. Although he was a U.S. citizen, he discovered that his name, too, was on the secret death squad list. At first, he left the country and returned to Oklahoma. But eventually, saying that when the sheep are in danger the shepherd cannot run, he chose to return to guide his people. He took precautions, sleeping in a different room of the sprawling church complex each night. But one night the death squad came and found him. The small room where Father Rother died is now a chapel for personal prayer. Blessed Stanley Rother, left, a young priest from Oklahoma, served impoverished indigenous people in Guatemala. In 1981, Father Stanley Rother became One can still see some blood on the the first American citizen to be martyred. Exploring the lives of the saints can help Catholics grow in holiness during Lent. (CNS file photo) floor where he had been killed. After everyone else in my group had left the Spending time with a saint is an now Blessed Stanley Rother. their entire lives to work with the poor of room, I stayed to pray for strength and awesome experience. I felt like I was There are many ways to spend time Latin America. Dorothy Day coupled her perseverance in my own ministry. personally connected with Father Rother, with a saint, and Lent is a great time to service of the poor with a radical voice do it. against injustice in her ministry through Each Lent, I immerse myself in the the Catholic Worker House. experience of at least one saint. This As I explore the lives of the saints, I has included both the ones of old and am overwhelmed by the way these men more contemporary ones, some not yet and women were willing to suffer for the canonized. Often this immersion can be faith. Some like Jean de Brebeuf, Oscar done by choosing the right books to read. Romero or Blessed Peter To Rot died in In recent years, I have read about direct response to their ministry for the Blessed Stanley Rother, St. Oscar faith. Others, like Damien, suffered many Romero, Sister Maura Clarke, Dorothy other setbacks before actually dying. Day, Sister Dorothy Stang, St. Maximilian Upon reflection, the common qualities Kolbe and St. Teresa of Calcutta. I’ve also of these saints are prayer, charity and found some excellent biographies of long- suffering. Those conform to three ways of respected saints like SS. Francis of Assisi, observing Lent—almsgiving, prayer and Jean de Brebeuf, Catherine of Siena, John fasting—found in the Gospel reading for of the Cross, Damien of Molokai and Ash Wednesday (Mt 6:1-6, 16-18). Teresa of Avila. In 2005 when I was tasked with I’m not sure why I started exploring starting a new parish, I was also asked lives of saints for Lent, but I suspect to propose a name for the parish. The it was my desire to form an image in possibilities were great as I considered all my mind of a holy person and not just the saints I had come to know. Ultimately, analyze tenets of spirituality. In other I asked the bishop to consider Pope John words, I wanted to enter their experience XXIII to be our patron. And this new and feel what they felt, to get to really parish was born. know them. Faith as expressed through I was acquainted with Pope John men and women who lived well is both through my own studies of his life and the inspiring and relatable. Second Vatican Council. I remember his In this immersion into the lives of election in 1958, have visited his tomb, saints, there are several common threads. read biographies and his own journal. He The first is the profound and intentional encapsulated what I felt a parish should prayer life that comes through. Some be in the new century. like Teresa of Calcutta had experienced Whether during Lent or any other time, great darkness, as she called it, feeling an making a connection with a saint can absence of God. Others, like Catherine of provide the necessary inspiration that we Siena or John of the Cross, discovered a all need to follow the Gospel and live for deep mystical oneness with God. the kingdom of God. In addition to prayer, virtually every Sts. Brigid, Clare, Joan of Arc, Lucy, Margaret, Martha, Mary Magdalene and Rita are depicted in a saint also served the needs of others. (Father Herbert Weber is founding pastor stained-glass window in the mausoleum at Holy Rood Cemetery in Westbury, N.Y. Although the lives Besides Mother Teresa working with those of St. John XXIII Parish in Perrysburg, of the saints have great variety, they have a common bond of prayer, charity and suffering—three dying in the streets of Calcutta, Sisters Ohio. His weekly podcast can be found at practices at the heart of the season of Lent. (CNS photo/Gregory A. Shemitz) Dorothy Stang and Maura Clarke dedicated 23.church.) † Page 12 The Criterion Friday, February 12, 2021 Perspectives Joyful Witness/Kimberly Pohovey Twenty Something/ Loosening our grip helps us yield to God’s control Christina Capecchi Between COVID-19 and cancer, I’ve of war. him occupied, I suggest he pray, meditate, When an obituary had a lot of time at home. Our oldest son, Luke, recently read, exercise. Time to think. Time to worry. Too graduated college and accepted a job Then it hit me: We are both sharing becomes a prayer much time in my own working in Corpus Christi, Texas. I knew a similar experience. We are both in our head. I have had to be there was a better-than-average chance he own heads. Both of us want to control I’ve never had to write an obituary. I more intentional about would find work out of town. However, our own situations instead of trusting that realize how fortunate that makes me. prayer. I have been I didn’t consider him moving as far as God has our situations well under control. As a professional writer, I’ve imagined reading devotionals Texas. It all happened so fast—right after It is when we vie for control that we feel what it would be like and inspirational I was diagnosed with cancer. scared, frustrated, worried or lonely. We to write one. books. I’ve been My husband Mark and I didn’t want need to learn to let go and trust. Of all writing utilizing my Fitbit app him to make the 20-hour drive and try When I look back in my life, I see that forms, the obituary is to meditate. I exercise. to find a place to live on his own. So the there has never been a situation, challenge the life summary, the I paint. Basically, I’ve day after my breast cancer surgery, Mark or tragedy that God didn’t have in control final word. It conveys been using all the and Luke packed up his Ford Fusion and and ultimately use for his glory. Every what may be the only tools in my power to stay occupied, stay headed for The Lone Star State. challenge either helps us grow or leads us information future centered, and to help me let go. Luke’s job as a news producer at a TV to a new and unexpected opportunity—or generations will ever Part of being in my own head is the station is going well. He’s learning so both. know of a particular need for control. I want to plan and much so quickly, and they are giving him There are so many instances in my life ancestor. I cannot to dictate the outcome. I think we all more and more responsibility. However, that I’m now able to look back and say, imagine a more daunting assignment for suffer from this in some way, but I being 1,200 miles from home is difficult. “Oh, that’s what God was doing.” I just the grief-stricken. admit by nature I have a greater need He moved there not knowing a soul, need to loosen my grip on the tug of war Last summer, I read an obituary that for control. and, especially during COVID, has little rope and slide his way. has stuck with me, challenging me to live Of course, intellectually, I know full opportunity to meet people. well. It was written for my husband’s well who is in control. I feel as if I have As his mother, my heart aches (Kimberly Pohovey is a member of beloved Aunt Bridgann, his godmother, to work hard to surrender to God’s will whenever he sounds down on our calls. I St. Jude Parish in Indianapolis. She is the who died in July after a short illness. She and trust he will work out any difficulty I tell him all will be well—he just needs to director of major and planned gifts for the was 79. may be experiencing. It is a constant tug give it time. I suggest activities to keep archdiocese.) † The obituary names her parents, her eight siblings and her three children. It highlights the happy milestones in her Our Works of Charity/David Bethuram life. Somehow, the mere date and location of her wedding Mass—on April 20, Mental health professionals deal with range of life issues 1962, in Castle Grove, Iowa—sparkles, conjuring a nostalgic springtime joy. Parenting teenagers is no small feat, and it is natural to be Prior to coming to Catholic Charities, Jacob’s pre-adoptive With the biographical facts aside, the mystified by your teen’s behavior sometimes. It may seem like parents often struggled to fully understand his triggers and obituary goes on to describe Bridgann, anything and everything can set them off. Yet, the situations behaviors, and communication was a core issue. Staff worked capturing her essence in just a few words: that seem to push your teen’s buttons, often with Jacob’s pre-adoptive parents to better understand and “Her smile and laughter were contagious.” called “triggers,” can have patterns. respond to Jacob’s behaviors. His parents also learned effective And then, the sentence that stopped me A “trigger” can be thought of as an ways to actively listen to Jacob while delaying their responses in my tracks: “She was deeply faithful in event, a feeling or a situation that precedes when they became upset. The team used psychoeducation to everyday life.” an emotional response. Helping your teen tune them into the complex trauma he experienced, and helped Wow. become more aware of those triggers them increase their awareness to some of the effects of that Bridgann was a Catholic who cherished is central to stopping the out-of-control trauma. her faith. This statement testifies to that: daily behavior. Sometimes it is a matter of Using enactments, such as games and sports, Jacob learned prayer, countless rosaries, an abiding love observing your teen’s behavior to notice ways to self-regulate and self-sooth while building and for the Mass. And it speaks to fidelity more patterns. strengthening communication among all three family members. broadly, to be faithful in all facets: faithful Triggers can be a precursor to an angry Communication significantly improved, and they strengthened to God, to spouse, to sisters, to traditions, outburst, but triggers can be precursors to many responses. their connection with one another. Jacob now has fewer verbal to children and grandchildren, to birthdays Common situations and feelings that may “push a teen’s and physical outbursts, is better able to manage his stress and and birds, to favorite singers and long-held buttons” and trigger an outburst include being told “no,” anger, and is more effective at solving problems. values. To be faithful to all you hold dear. bad news, being left out, being bullied, being criticized, not Catholic Charities helped build community supports. They The fidelity is applied broadly—and, knowing what to do, being ignored or overstimulation. Of referred the families to additional mental health resources; even more challenging—it is exercised “in course, just as every teen is unique, your teen’s triggers will be arranged for a new, supportive school setting; and connected everyday life.” unique as well. them to other social activities, such as 4-H and sports. By the This is where the real beauty comes. The first step to helping your teen be aware of triggers is time services ended, the family was moving forward with the There’s something quiet and stirring observing and being familiar with the situations that make adoption process. about a mother who is faithful in your child restless, frustrated or upset. Pay attention and be Catholic Charities mental health professionals, in offices everyday life. Bridgann was. She was aware of warning signs of triggers and look for patterns and in Bloomington, Indianapolis and Martinsville, offer a faithful to warm meals and dirty dishes, connections. comprehensive, integrated continuum of quality care for children, to handwritten cards and late-night text Jacob was a 13-year-old teenager who struggled to handle adolescents and adults struggling with a range of life issues. messages. She tended to the work of daily his emotions, often losing control and becoming aggressive Our practice is exercised with the highest ethical standards life with grace. She was unwavering. toward others. He was referred to Catholic Charites Mental and innovative therapies to address anxiety, depression, family We tend to measure life in terms of Health Services to help with the transition into a pre-adoptive conflicts, grief and loss, life adjustments, relationship problems résumé points and marathon moments. But home. At the time of his arrival, Jacob had a significant and stress. Our therapists are trained in innovative approaches what nobler goal could you pursue than to be history of verbal aggression, anger management issues, lack to mental health care and are either licensed mental health like Bridgann, to be faithful in everyday life? of problem-solving skills, and intrusive thoughts and feelings counselors or licensed clinical social workers. I can think of none. which often led to disruptive behavior. The young teenager was That simple sentence in her obituary previously removed from two other pre-adoptive homes due to (David Bethuram is executive director of the archdiocesan has stayed with me, connecting me aggression with adult family members. Secretariat for Catholic Charities. E-mail him at dbethuram@ to Bridgann. It has become my prayer. Jacob and his new pre-adoptive parents often struggled to archindy.org. For information on Catholic Charities mental I thought of her often at Christmas, have effective communication. Catholic Charities’ team worked health services: Bloomington—cutt.ly/CCBloomington or 812- recalling her beautifully wrapped presents with Jacob to help increase self-awareness by pointing out 332-1262; Indianapolis—cutt.ly/CCIndy or 317-236-1500; and the gingerbread ornaments she hung strong emotions that were occurring due to various triggers. Martinsville—cutt.ly/CC-IUMorganCty or 765-342-8383.) † on the tree. I think of her when I wipe down the kitchen table and sing my kids lullabies at night. Faithful in everyday life. Guest Column/Richard Etienne I feel something easing in me, the high- achieving college student who racked up internships and endorsements. Where Listen, pray for God’s wisdom to speak his words of faith once was an urge to prove myself is now a Do you ever have a thought that cannot word against the city, but actually boarded a fantastic image? trust to simply be. I’m letting life emerge, be stifled? Have you ever said something a ship to avoid it. So, the next time you wonder where a embracing its quiet gifts. I’m no longer to someone and later wondered, “Where When Jesus made his triumphant entry response in conversation came from, you compelled to take my private life, spiff it did that come from?” into Jerusalem, the Pharisees wanted the might ponder if it was a message directly up and make it public. Quitting Instagram The Scriptures are crowd silenced. But Jesus, in the Gospel from God. helped. I don’t view my days as fodder for filled with prophets of Luke, says, “I tell you, if they keep Even the decision to write periodic social media, but as moments to hold to my who had similar silent, the stones [themselves] will cry columns for this publication was a faith- heart. I’m the protagonist, not the producer. experiences. out!” (Lk 19:40) filled response within me to an action that Maybe this is a shift that comes with Jeremiah tried It seems that the word must go forth I felt God wanted from me at this time in aging. Perhaps the pandemic accelerated not to speak God’s and do God’s will and, in every situation, my life. it, clarifying for me what matters most and word, but found it shall find a way to be spoken. How about you? What message is God casting all the rest aside. But surely, I know, was impossible. In the There is a magnificent passage in encouraging you to speak today, and to the memory of Bridgann inspires it, with Bible, we read, “You the Book of Isaiah that reads, “For just whom are you being sent? How long will the words from her obituary as a guidepost. duped me, O Lord, and as from the heavens the rain and snow you resist this urge to speak? When we are tired, when we are unsure, I let myself be duped” (Jer 20:7). come down and do not return there till Keep listening and praying about it. when we rise each morning and begin anew, Also, remember that Jonah was not they have watered the Earth. … So shall God alone knows the place and the time. presented with 100 little ways to serve our initially keen on preaching his message to my word be that goes forth from my people: faithful in everyday life. the citizens of Nineveh. In the first chapter mouth; It shall not return to me void, but (Richard Etienne is a member of St. John of the book of Jonah, we read that not shall do my will, achieving the end for the Baptist Parish in Newburgh, Ind., in (Christina Capecchi is a freelance writer only did Jonah decide not to speak God’s which I sent it” (Is 55:10,11). Isn’t that the Evansville Diocese.) † from Inver Grove Heights, Minn.) † The Criterion Friday, February 12, 2021 Page 13

Sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time/Msgr. Owen F. Campion Daily Readings The Sunday Readings Monday, February 15 Friday, February 19 Genesis 4:1-15, 25 Isaiah 58:1-9a Sunday, February 14, 2021 Psalm 50:1, 8, 16bc-17, 20-21 Psalm 51:3-6b, 18-19 • Leviticus 13:1-2, 44-46 Mark 8:11-13 Matthew 9:14-15 • 1 Corinthians 10:31-11:1 Tuesday, February 16 Saturday, February 20 • Mark 1:40-45 Genesis 6:5-8; 7:1-5, 10 Isaiah 58:9b-14 Psalm 29:1a, 2, 3ac-4, 3b, 9c-10 Psalm 86:1-6 The first reading for Mass this Jesus, asking for a cure. The same Mark 8:14-21 Luke 5:27-32 weekend comes from the Book of attitude about leprosy applied among Leviticus. In sequence, Leviticus is the Jews at the time of Jesus as it did among Wednesday, February 17 Sunday, February 21 fourth book in modern Jews in the days of Moses. Ash Wednesday First Sunday of Lent biblical translations. Jesus cured the man, the Lord being Joel 2:12-18 Genesis 9:8-15 As such, it is part of “moved with pity,” according to Mark (Mk Psalm 51:3-6b, 12-14, 17 Psalm 25:4-9 the Pentateuch. The 1:41). This cure came when Jesus touched 2 Corinthians 5:20-6:2 1 Peter 3:18-22 Pentateuch includes the man. Symbolic touching was important Matthew 6:1-6, 16-18 Mark 1:12-15 the five books of the in those days, as it is important today in the Bible attributed to liturgy. It represents contact and transferal. Thursday, February 18 Moses. These five In ordinations, the ordaining bishop lays his Deuteronomy 30:15-20 books are also called hands upon the candidates to be ordained Psalm 1:1-4, 6 the Torah. bishop, priest or deacon. At weddings, the Luke 9:22-25 The Torah forms bride and bridegroom hold each other’s the fundamental law and philosophy of hands when exchanging their nuptial vows. Judaism, both in current understandings Jesus transmitted the healing power and in ancient practices as well. of God to the man through this touch. In this reading, God speaks to Moses Then, Jesus spoke the miraculous words Question Corner/Fr. Kenneth Doyle and to Aaron, Moses’ brother. The topic of healing. is leprosy. It is not known whether these The Lord ordered the man to go to the The Church offers various options for references to leprosy in the Scriptures Jewish priests, since they could reinstate referred to what is known today as him in society if they saw he was free of Hansen’s disease or to some other illness. disease. distribution of ashes on Ash Wednesday Regardless of the exact scientific nature Ash Wednesday is nearing, and soon I always choose the latter, for some of of what the ancients called leprosy, the Reflection Qwe will receive ashes on our forehead the same reasons that you have cited. The problem was chronic and severe. In these weeks after Christmas, in the and be told, “Remember that you are dust “dust” line does, though, remind us that An entire social system developed feast of the Epiphany of the Lord and the and to dust you shall we are both human and mortal, and it is around the disease. Victims were outcasts. feast of the Baptism of the Lord, the Church return.” With Catholic taken directly from the Book of Genesis They were brutally shunned, often had to has continued to introduce us to the person teaching about an (Gn 3:19). forage or beg for food and search for any and ministry of Jesus and to explain the eventual resurrection shelter they could find. marvel of the coming of the Son of God. after death, why I have a sister-in-law who thinks Ancient Jews would never blame God This weekend, the horror of leprosy, are we told such a Qthat she cannot receive holy for such a serious malady. God was seen as it was regarded by Jews long ago, is seemingly morbid and Communion after a divorce. This is the as good, loving and merciful. The ancient critical to understanding the readings. It fatalistic thing? situation. She had been married for 28 Hebrews saw human sin as ultimately the is necessary to apply basic implications to Why not simply years. She was married in a Catholic cause of all earthly misery, including illness. ourselves. say something like, Church ceremony officiated both by St. Paul’s First Epistle to the Corinthians Like leprosy, sin leads to death. “These ashes are a a priest and a minister. (The man she furnishes this liturgy with its second Furthermore, it separates us from the sign of repentance?” It seems to me that married was a Protestant.) He breached reading. In this reading, the great Apostle one community of faith in the Lord. We the emphasis should be on the fact that, the marriage vows, had an affair and counsels the Christians of Corinth never sinners are outcasts and strangers, left to even though we are stained by sin, we wanted a divorce. to offend anyone, Jew or Gentile. This struggle in the best way that we can, and will live again. Could you comment? My sister-in-law was faithful to advice reveals that the Corinthian Christian this is the problem. (Indiana) her wedding vows and, since her community involved both kinds of people. Living in sin is to be in a world in divorce, has drawn closer to the Lord Jews lived in places throughout the Roman which selfishness reigns. Jesus, always In recent years, there has been an and to her Catholic faith. She would Empire, not just in the Holy Land. moved by love, cures us and reinstates Aoption with regard to the distribution love to be able to receive the Paul urges that the Christians follow us, as it were, by forgiving our sins. of ashes. Those administering them may Eucharist, but thinks that she cannot his example, because he imitates Christ. Forgiven, we enter again the family of say the traditional “Remember that you since she is divorced. Can you clarify For its last reading, the Church gives God. Life, not death, is our destiny. are dust ..., ” or they may opt instead to the Catholic teaching on this? (Location us a passage from the Gospel of St. Mark. The key is having faith, repenting and use the formula, “Repent and believe in withheld) In this reading, a leper approaches living according to the Lord’s model. † the Gospel.” I am assuming—since you did not A say differently—that your sister- My Journey to God in-law has not remarried. Had she done so, in a ceremony not approved by the Catholic Church, she would be correct in refraining from receiving Wrath of COVID-19 holy Communion. More likely, though, she is under the common misimpression By Jan Riley that a civil divorce, in and by itself, disqualifies a Catholic from the The inside view of the wrath A brother, an uncle, a cousin gone Eucharist. A life taken from Earth God, please carry him home That is simply not so, as explained Raw and uncut, here it is by the Catechism of the Catholic Amazing health care workers Let this move you to make choices that matter Church: “If civil divorce remains the Risking their lives Let this enlighten you only possible way of ensuring certain A library of knowledge erased on the importance of staying informed legal rights, the care of the children, Cherishing what we learned Let this remind you to love more and care more or the protection of inheritance, it can be tolerated and does not constitute a moral offense” (#2383). Sometimes a divorce can occur with little, or even no, responsibility on the part of one of the spouses, and even a spouse who bears major responsibility for the breakup of a marriage can go to confession and be absolved. (Jan Riley is a Catholics who are separated or member of Holy Spirit Parish divorced and who have not remarried in Indianapolis. She wrote this poem describing outside of the Church, are in good the scene of her brother in a hospital bed surrounded by standing in the Church and can receive tubes and medical equipment minutes before he died from all of the sacraments, including holy the coronavirus on Dec. 10. Photo: Lights representing the Communion. They are encouraged to 400,000 people who have died of COVID-19 in the U.S. line participate fully in all aspects of parish the Lincoln Memorial reflecting pool in Washington on life and are invited to serve in any Jan. 19.) (CNS photo/Callaghan O’Hare, Reuters) ministries including lectors, extraordinary ministers of holy Communion and catechists.

(Questions may be sent to Father Kenneth Doyle at [email protected] and 30 Columbia Circle Dr., Albany, New York 12203.) † Page 14 The Criterion Friday, February 12, 2021

FOSTER, Tammy E., 57, of Kevin and Stephen Macke. Holy Spirit, Indianapolis, Uncle and great-uncle of several. Providence Sister Charles Van Hoy served Jan. 12. Wife of Robert Foster. MARLATT, Earl, 65, in Catholic schools for 32 years Mother of Bobby Bowman. St. Mary, Rushville, Jan. 10. Stepmother of Sara Foster. Husband of Mary Marlatt. Providence Sister Charles Van Hoy, a member in schools in Illinois, Indiana, Maryland, North Rest in Daughter of Carl and Mary Father of Sabrina Baumgarte, of the Sisters of Providence of Saint Mary-of-the- Carolina, Oklahoma and Washington, D.C. She Rennier. Sister of Tina Boling, Hillary Magorrian, Molly Anna Harvey, Debbie Snow, Means, Sarah Schock, Jennifer Woods in St. Mary-of-the-Woods, died on Jan. 27 later served in parish ministry for a decade before peace Floyd, James, Joe and Steve Snow and Kevin Marlatt. Son at Mother Theodore Hall on the campus of her returning to the motherhouse, where she ministered Rennier. Grandmother of three. of Forrest Marlatt. Brother of religious community’s motherhouse. She was 91. and volunteered in various capacities until 2018 Please submit in writing FULKERSON, Agnese H. Alice McQueen, Clifford and Because of the coronavirus pandemic, a when she dedicated herself entirely to prayer. to our office by 10 a.m. (Megnis), 78, St. Mark the Paul Marlatt. Grandfather of virtual funeral service was held on Feb. 10. In the archdiocese, Sister Charles served Thursday before the week of Evangelist, Indianapolis, Jan. 11. 17. Great-grandfather of two. Burial followed at the sisters’ cemetery. in Indianapolis at St. Anthony School from publication; be sure to state Mother of Whitney Bowman. MEYER, Creighton L., 74, Sister Charles was born on Nov. 2, 1929, in 1964-70, the former All Saints School from date of death. Obituaries of Sister of Silvia and Juris Megnis. Christ the King, Indianapolis, Bloomington where she grew up as a member 1970-71, the United Southside Community archdiocesan priests serving Grandmother of three. Jan. 11. Father of Melanie Lee, of St. Charles Borromeo Parish. She entered Organization from 1975-83 and at Our Lady our archdiocese are listed HODGES, Joanne M., 85, Cindy Wargocki, Heidi, Julie, the Sisters of Providence on Feb. 2, 1949, and of the Most Holy Rosary Parish and St. Patrick elsewhere in The Criterion. St. Patrick, Salem, Jan. 7. Wife Greg, Jeff, Jon, Nick and Paul professed final vows on Aug. 15, 1956. Parish from 1983-93. She also ministered as Order priests and religious of Joseph Hodges. Mother of Meyer. Brother of Marilyn and sisters and brothers are Sister Charles earned a bachelor’s degree activity director at the motherhouse from 1994- Adrienne Gallagher, Donna Fred Meyer. Grandfather of 17. at Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College and a 2006 and as a volunteer at Educational Family included here, unless they are Shergy, Jane Shivers, Daniel, MYERS, Mary B., 95, master’s degree in library science at Spalding Services in West Terre Haute from 2006-14. natives of the archdiocese or Joseph and Stephen Hodges. have other connec­tions to it; St. Joseph, Shelbyville, Jan. 9. University in Louisville, Ky. Memorial gifts may be sent to the Sisters of Grandmother of 14. Great- Mother of Teresa Cepican, those are separate obituaries grandmother of 19. Great- During her 72 years as a member of the Providence, 1 Sisters of Providence Road, Saint on this page. Gloria, Mary Ann, Bobby, Sisters of Providence, Sister Patricia ministered Mary-of-the-Woods, St. Mary-of-the-Woods, IN great-grandmother of two. Mike and Tony Myers. Sister of as an educator and school librarian for 32 years 47876. † HORNBERGER, Douglas Lillian Ryba. Grandmother of BALDWIN, Freddie, 63, E., 55, Nativity of Our Lord 14. Great-grandmother of 17. St. Pius X, Indianapolis, Jan. 10. Jesus Christ, Indianapolis, RECH, Donald G., 83, Holy Providence Sister Emily Walsh served Father of Amy Baldwin, Wendy Jan. 12. Husband of Jennifer Spirit, Indianapolis, Mathis and Renee Watring. Son Hornberger. Father of Leah Jan. 11. Father of Angela as an educator and librarian of Russell and Janice Bauman. Kearley, Devin and Levi Green, Cindy Lopez, Lori Brother of Lori Smith, Alex Hornberger. Brother of Diane Maier, Carolyn Mattingly, Providence Sister Emily Walsh (formerly as an educator for 12 years in elementary and and Rodney Baldwin, Chris, Anderson, Debbie Carter, Debra O’Neal, David and Sister Mary Francine), a member of the Sisters high school education in schools in Indiana. James and Russell Bauman. Denise Farrell, Donna Goebes, Michael Rech. Brother of of Providence of Saint Mary-of-the-Woods in She later served as a librarian at the college Grandfather of three. Darrin, David, Dean, Dennis Harry Jones. Grandfather of St. Mary-of-the-Woods, died on Jan. 26 at level in Pennsylvania and in Indiana before and Donny Hornberger. BAURLEY, Charles E., 77, 17. Great-grandfather of 19. Mother Theodore Hall on the campus of her serving at the motherhouse. Prince of Peace, Madison, HUBERT, Betty Ann, 86, RHODA, Leo J., 90, Nativity religious community’s motherhouse. She was 90. In the archdiocese, Sister Emily served Jan. 9. Husband of Lynn St. Mary, New Albany, Jan. 12. of Our Lord Jesus Christ, Because of the coronavirus pandemic, a at Our Lady of Providence High School in Baurley. Father of Lisa Baurley, Mother of Cheri Howlett, Indianapolis, Jan. 12. Husband virtual funeral service was held on Feb. 8. Clarksville from 1962-67, as a librarian at Saint David and Rick Hubert. Sister Tammy Linville and Amy of Marjorie LaFata. Father of Burial followed at the sisters’ cemetery. Mary-of-the-Woods College from 1975-2001, of Joyce Stamper and John Rodriguez. Grandfather of four. Evelyn, Mark, Michael and Paul Sister Emily was born on Sept. 21, 1930, and in Terre Haute at the former St. Joseph Great-grandfather of two. Deitsch. Grandmother of 11. Rhoda. Grandfather of nine. Great-grandmother of 10. in Saginaw, Mich. She entered the Sisters of School in 1955 and at the former St. Ann BERNHART, Evann E., 83, SCHULTE, Delores H., 84, Providence on July 22, 1952, and professed School from 1955-62. JOHNSON, Virginia V., St. Michael, Brookville, Jan. 9. St. Joseph, Corydon, final vows on Jan. 23, 1960. At the motherhouse, Sister Emily coordinated Sister of Alberta and James 98, St. Charles Borromeo, Jan. 7. Wife of George Bloomington, Jan. 9. Mother Sister Emily earned a bachelor’s degree the Resource Center starting in 2001 before Sauerland. Aunt of several. Schulte. Mother of Denise at Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College and a devoting herself entirely to prayer in 2020. Great-aunt of several. of Beverly Johnson Glosser. Kifer, Frances Lasley, Patricia master’s degree in library science at Spalding Memorial gifts may be sent to the Sisters of Grandmother of seven. Great- Mersmann and Jeannie Wolfe. BLANCKAERT, Patty grandmother of six. Great- University in Louisville, Ky. Providence, 1 Sisters of Providence Road, Saint (Ettel), 72, Holy Family, Sister of Marylon Ehlers, great-grandmother of four. Theresa Leavy and Carylon During her 68 years as a member of the Mary-of-the-Woods, St. Mary-of-the-Woods, IN New Albany, Jan. 12. Wife of Sisters of Providence, Sister Emily ministered 47876. † August Blanckaert. Mother LAKER, Albert L., 84, Seger. Grandmother of nine. of Sarah Martin and Josh St. Louis, Batesville, Jan. 9. Great-grandmother of 15. Haller. Sister of Gary Ettel. Husband of Doris Laker. SCHUMAN, Walter, 92, All Providence Sister Patricia McIntyre Grandmother of five. Father of Pamela Koehler, Saints, Dearborn County, Rhonda Stenger and Nancy CALLAHAN, Bonnie, 79, Jan. 9. Husband of Mary served in education for 34 years Werner. Brother of Delores Schuman. Father of Julie St. Elizabeth Ann Seton, Gindling, Marjorie Kirschner, Richmond, Jan. 11. Mother of Baker, Cathy Knecht, Don, Providence Sister Patricia McIntyre (formerly In the archdiocese, Sister Patricia served at Agnes and Evelyn Volk, Jim, Mark, Mike, Patrick, Ron Sister Elaine), a member of the Sisters of St. Paul School (now St. John Paul II School) Becky Savoy, Chris Schwarz Charles, Eugene and Ronald and Steve Schuman. Brother of Providence of Saint Mary-of-the-Woods in in Sellersburg from 1956-59, at St. Malachy and Tracy Snyder. Sister of Laker. Grandfather of six. Benedictine Father Pius Klein. Joe Schuman. Grandfather of St. Mary-of-the-Woods, died on Jan. 18 at School in Brownsburg from 1962-65 and 1970- Grandmother of seven. Great- LONG, Richard, 73, 20. Great-grandfather of 14. Mother Theodore Hall on the campus of her 73, at Holy Family School in New Albany grandmother of four. St. Malachy, Brownsburg, SWOPE, Leonard, 72, religious community’s motherhouse. She was 87. from 1966-70, at the former Sacred Heart Jan. 9. Husband of Margaret St. Malachy, Brownsburg, Jan. Because of the coronavirus pandemic, a School in Terre Haute from 1991-96, and in COFFMAN, Jean K., 97, Long. Father of Brian Long. SS. Francis and Clare of 11. Husband of Joan Swope. virtual funeral service was held on Feb. 8. Indianapolis at Cathedral High School from Brother of Patricia Sigmund Father of Ann Marie Beight, Assisi, Greenwood, Jan. 8. and William Long. Burial followed at the sisters’ cemetery. 1965-66, Nativity of Our Lord Jesus Christ Mother of Nancy Leaf, Susan Kimberly Gruzinsky, Linda and Sister Patricia was born on March 10, 1933, School from 1973-77, at Holy Cross Central LOUDENBACK, David L., Christopher Swope. Brother of Sanders, Catherine Van Auken in Eaton, Ohio. She grew up as a member of School from 1980-84 and as a receptionist at and J. Stephen Coffman. Sister 57, St. Jude, Indianapolis, Cynthia Keef, Brian, James, Jan. 9. Husband of Cathy Lawrence, Richard and Robert the former St. Mary Parish (now part of the Archdiocese Edward T. O’Meara Catholic of John Knapke. Grandmother St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish) in Richmond. Center from 1985-89. of 19. Great-grandmother of 52. Loudenback. Father of John Swope. Grandfather of seven. Sister Patricia entered the Sisters of Providence At the motherhouse, Sister Patricia served as and Steven Loudenback. THOMPSON, Terrence J., DEVINE, Richard J., 91, Brother of Deana Haney, Diana on Jan. 14, 1951, and professed final vows on local coordinator of health care services from St. Pius X, Indianapolis, Jan 9. 72, St. Mary-of-the-Knobs, Smith and Dan Loudenback. Floyd County, Jan. 12. Aug. 15, 1958. 1996-2001 and as a receptionist and secretary Husband of Joann Devine. Grandfather of one. She earned a bachelor’s degree at Saint at the former Woods Day Care/Pre-School from Father of Julie Billings, Kathy Husband of Jonelle Thompson. Mary-of-the-Woods College and a master’s 2001-09. Dolgos and Rick Devine. MACKE, Darin G., 55, Brother of Marilyn Griffin, Brother of Tom Devine. St. Louis, Batesville, Jan 8. Joyce Muscatello, Kathy degree at Indiana University in Bloomington. She is survived by three sisters: Providence Grandfather of five. Great- Husband of Kathy Macke. Father Sperzel, Therese Winstead, During her 70 years as a member of the Sister Regina McIntyre of St. Mary-of-the- grandfather of five. of Jacob Macke. Son of Eugene Pat and Ron Thompson. Sisters of Providence, Sister Patricia ministered Woods; Marjorie McIntyre of Loveland, Ohio; and Elizabeth Macke. Brother Grandfather of two. as an educator for 34 years in schools in Indiana, and Rosemarie Southworth of Cos Cob, Conn. WALKER, Robert E., 81, North Carolina and Massachusetts. She later Memorial gifts may be sent to the Sisters of St. Anne, New Castle, Jan. 8. served in pastoral ministry before returning to Providence, 1 Sisters of Providence Road, Saint Online Lay Ministry Formation Husband of Judy Walker. Father education, and then helping coordinate health Mary-of-the-Woods, St. Mary-of-the-Woods, IN of Mary Pierce, Jim, John and care services at the motherhouse. 47876. † The Archdiocese of Indianapolis has partnered with the Mark Walker. Brother of Mary University of Notre Dame and Catholic Distance University Clapp. Grandfather of 14. Great- (CDU) to offer not-for-credit online theology classes: grandfather of 14. Providence Sister Catherine White served • Earn certificate in Lay Ministry WEAVER, George E., 80, • Complete 12 courses online with ND STEP program in education, child and youth protection • CDU offers classes on Catechism of the Catholic Church St. Pius X, Indianapolis, Jan. 10. • 20% discount for all employees, volunteers, and parishioners Husband of Kathleen Weaver. Providence Sister Catherine White, a joining her religious community. Father of Elizabeth Graves, member of the Sisters of Providence of Saint During her 37 years as a member of the For more information, please log on to Melissa and Christopher Weaver. Mary-of-the-Woods in St. Mary-of-the-Woods, Sisters of Providence, Sister Catherine served for www.archindy.org/layministry Grandfather of five. Great-grandfather of two. died on Jan. 21 at Mother Theodore Hall on three years in parish ministry in the Evansville, the campus of her community’s motherhouse. Ind., Diocese, for 10 years in schools in WERNER, Alvin O., 88, All She was 73. California, and later at a center in Los Angeles Saints, Dearborn County, Jan. 12. Father of Anita Smith, Because of the coronavirus pandemic, a that advocated for women and children. From REPORT SEXUAL MISCONDUCT NOW Anthony, Art, Jerry and Rick virtual funeral service was held on Jan. 29. 2004-18, she ministered for periods as the safe If you are a victim of sexual misconduct by a person ministering on Werner. Brother of Virginia Burial followed at the sisters’ cemetery. environment coordinator and director of the behalf of the Church, or if you know of anyone who has been a victim Eckstein, Bill and Leon Sister Catherine was born on April 15, office of child and youth protection for the of such misconduct, please contact the archdiocesan victim assistance Werner. Grandfather of 20. 1947, in Chester, Pa. She entered the Sisters of Diocese of San Bernadino, Calif. coordinator. There are two ways to make a report: Great-grandfather of 26. Providence on Aug. 14, 1984, and professed Sister Catherine is survived by two sisters, Ethics Point final vows on Aug. 15, 1992. Frances Adams of West Chester, Pa., and Sarah 1 Confidential, Online Reporting WHEELER, Alice, 98, www.archdioceseofindianapolis.ethicspoint.com or 888-393-6810 St. Vincent de Paul, Shelby Prior to joining the Sisters of Providence, Goose of Parksburg, Pa.; and a brother, John Carla Hill, Archdiocese of Indianapolis, Victim Assistance Coordinator County, Jan. 11. Mother of Sister Catherine earned a bachelor’s degree at White of Holtwood, Pa. 2 P.O. Box 1410, Indianapolis, IN 46206-1410 Terri Nigh, David, Ed, Jim, Immaculata College in Chester County, Pa., and Memorial gifts may be sent to the Sisters of Mike and Tom Wheeler. 317-236-1548 or 800-382-9836, ext. 1548 a master’s degree at Oklahoma City University Providence, 1 Sisters of Providence Road, Saint Grandmother of 13. Great- [email protected] in Oklahoma City. She worked as an educator Mary-of-the-Woods, St. Mary-of-the-Woods, IN grandmother of 23. † and principal for 15 years in Oklahoma before 47876. † The Criterion Friday, February 12, 2021 Page 15

instrumental in school choice efforts for “All students being educated in ICC decades, stand in strong support of the bill. any Indiana school are our kids,” said continued from page 1 “You can have a great quality public John Elcesser, executive director of the ‘I was here in school, but that still may not be the best association, which encompasses more than 2011 when percent of tuition based on family income. choice for a particular family for their child,” 7,000 teachers and close to 100,000 students the Choice House Bill 1005 would streamline the said Angela Espada, executive director of the in Indiana’s non-public schools. “Students Scholarship program by setting the scholarship ICC, the public policy voice of the Catholic often move back and forth between public amount at 90 percent for all students Church in Indiana. “We always support what and non-public schools, and graduates of all program was eligible for vouchers. is best for the child, and families are best at types of schools in Indiana play a significant passed, and “A child’s success should not be dictated making those decisions.” part in the betterment of their communities in the 10 by their family’s income,” Behning said. Parents, educators and advocates on both and the economy of our state. years of this “When we started looking at the current sides of the school choice issue gathered at “I was here in 2011 when the Choice eligibility requirements, we found a lot of the Statehouse for the often emotional, more Scholarship program was passed, and in program as I travel around hard-working families still could not send than four-hour committee hearing on Feb. 3. the 10 years of this program as I travel the state, I can say with all their child to the school of their choice.” Among those testifying was Alexander around the state, I can say with all sincerity sincerity that this program House Bill 1005 seeks to expand the Mingus, associate director of the ICC, who that this program has changed thousands has changed thousands of existing school choice program in two spoke not only on behalf of the Catholic of lives,” Elcesser continued. “I can also lives.’ additional ways. First, it would add foster Church in Indiana but as an expectant father. say that it has pushed both public and non- care as a pathway into the voucher program. “We rise in support of House Bill 1005, public schools to be better. House Bill 1005 —John Elcesser, executive director Second, it would create the Indiana and on a personal note, this program would simply makes school choice affordable of the Indiana Non-Public Education Scholarship Account, which certainly benefit my wife and me,” Mingus to more families—whether that be a Education Association would provide eligible families funding to said. “We are expecting our first child, a middle- or upper middle-class family that directly pay for tuition or other education- baby girl, and we would certainly fall into has struggled to afford tuition for multiple related expenses at an Indiana school. This the category that this bill would help in children, or the family with a special-needs account would be offered to children in regard to expanding educational choice.” child who needs access to services over To follow this and other priority foster care, those with special needs, and The INPEA, which represents Indiana’s and above what they can receive during the legislation of the ICC, visit www. those with parents on active duty in the more than 400 non-public schools school day. And then there’s the active-duty indianacc.org. This website includes U.S. Armed Forces or National Guard. (including the state’s 175 Catholic military family that gets moved around so access to I-CAN, the Indiana Catholic The Indiana Catholic Conference (ICC) schools), emphasizes that there is much they can’t meet one of the eligibility Action Network, which offers the and the Indiana Non-Public Education common ground between proponents of pathways in the current program. This Church’s position on key issues. Those Association (INPEA), which have been public and non-public schools. legislation gives them all a choice.” who sign up for I-CAN receive alerts on At press time, House Bill 1005 was legislation moving forward and ways to scheduled for a Feb. 9 hearing in the contact their elected representatives. House Ways and Means committee. Both the ICC and the INPEA encourage (Victoria Arthur, a member of St. Malachy Special Care proponents of school choice to contact Parish in Brownsburg, is a correspondent Classified Directory their legislators to support the bill. for The Criterion.) †

Construction Employment Trusted and Compassionate Care

Serving people with Autism & Developmental Disabilities

∙ Medicaid Waiver ( CIH & FSW) Diocese of Evansville, Indiana ∙ Residential, Community, Respite and PAC Services ∙ Staff screened and trained Human Resources Director/Manager

Kathy and Terry Huser The Catholic Diocese of Evansville, Indiana, which serves a Roman Catholic (317) 255-5700 Call 317-236-1585 www.HuserSpecialCare.com community of more than 75,800 across 12 counties in southwestern Indiana, TO ADVERTISE IN The Criterion Career Opportunities Available seeks candidates for the newly created position of Human Resources Manager/ Director. The actual position title will be dependent on the qualifications and experience of the successful candidate. Employment The successful candidate will be responsible for all aspects of the diocesan benefits plan; develop, maintain and continuously improve the diocese’s Coordinator of Evangelization and comprehensive process for hiring employees; oversee the compensation system for diocesan-agency employees; develop and maintain a performance- Discipleship evaluation process; and serve as an advisor to pastors and management team members parishes, schools and other diocesan agencies.

The Office of Evangelization of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Indianapolis is The successful candidate will be a Catholic in good standing, a bachelor’s degree seeking a full-time Coordinator of Evangelization and Discipleship. This position is required (master’s degree preferred) in human-resources management, is focused on helping parishes develop evangelization teams for outreach to the organizational development, business administration or a related field. At least unchurched and alienated as well as enhancing a sense of discipleship among five years of previous experience in human resources management is required. practicing Catholics. Designation as a Senior Professional in Human Resources or Professional in Human Resources is preferred. The successful candidate also must complete a Candidates must be practicing Roman Catholics with an in-depth knowledge full Criminal History Clearance. of the Faith and Catholic catechesis. Excellent oral and written communication skills along with strong organizational and project management skills are A complete position announcement is available online at www.evdio.org/ required. A Bachelor’s degree in catechetics, religious education, theology or a employmentopportunities.html. related field is required. Previous employment or volunteer experience in the Catholic Church in parish ministry or teaching is required. Spanish speaking/ To apply, send a letter of application, resume and at least four references to: writing ability is preferred. Search Committee, Human Resources, Diocese of Evansville, hr-manager@ evdio.org. No phone calls, please. Please e-mail cover letter, resume, and list of references, in confidence, to:

Ed Isakson Director, Human Resources Archdiocese of Indianapolis Vice President for Finance and Operations 1400 N. Meridian St. Indianapolis, IN 46202 E-mail: [email protected] Scecina Memorial High School

Equal Opportunity Employer The Vice President for Finance and Operations is committed to student success and the mission and values of Scecina Memorial High School. He/she manages and monitors school budget preparation and control, internal financial controls, Medicare Insurance financial reporting systems, and human resource processes while overseeing systems for payroll administration, accounts payable, tuition receivables, and auxiliary activities. The person in this role manages the tuition-assistance program and supervises the business office staff, cafeteria manager, and spirit shop manager. He/she maintains compliance with school, archdiocesan, and state of Indiana financial policies. The Vice President is a member of the President’s Administrative Team and Finance Committee of the Scecina Board of Directors. Qualified and interested candidates are invited to send a letter of interest and resume to:

Joe Therber President Scecina Memorial High School 5000 Nowland Avenue Indianapolis, IN 46201 [email protected] Page 16 The Criterion Friday, February 12, 2021

Archbishop Charles C. Thompson DEDICATION noted in his homily at the dedication continued from page 1 Mass how the Indianapolis East Deanery faith community has lived through wars, Father Aaron Jenkins, pastor of natural disasters and times of social St. Michael Parish, described the dedication unrest in its 161-year history. of his faith community’s renovated church “Through it all, however, has been in the broader context of the pandemic as the constant divine assurance of God’s “a hopeful moment for us.” faithful presence with those who “It’s a visible sign that things are put their faith in him,” Archbishop getting better,” he said in an interview Thompson said. “Throughout the course with The Criterion. of these experiences, many have found In remarks at the end of the liturgy, solace in the sacred space of a church… he spoke to the limited number of whether for individual devotion or parishioners who were able to gather in communal gathering…to lift mind and the church. heart in prayer. “It’s a glorious thing that God has given “As we dedicate this church, we pray us the grace to get through all this and that it be a great source of consolation, especially to be able to continue this project inspiration, invitation and dedication for during this time [of pandemic],” Father all who seek refuge in the Lord. May Jenkins noted. “That speaks volumes to those who call this place their spiritual your commitment to this project.” home be steadfast in welcoming, But as a sign of the continuing effect praising, serving and proclaiming the of the pandemic, the renovation was not good news of Jesus Christ.” entirely completed in time for the The parish’s church, built in 1966, has Jan. 30 dedication Mass. inspired a generation of believers. But no Christie Murphy, left, Terry Hite and Ruth Hittel wipe excess chrism oil from the altar at St. Michael Installation of decorative wooden major work had been done to the church Church in Greenfield during a Jan. 30 Mass in which the recently renovated church was dedicated. panels that will adorn the back wall since its construction. Murphy is the parish’s executive assistant. Hite and Hittel respectively serve as the parish of the church’s sanctuary was delayed The yearlong renovation project was school’s secretary and principal. (Photos by Sean Gallagher) because of issues related to the significant, said Father Jenkins. pandemic. So, during the dedication “The church was basically gutted and “The beauty that was already there Mass, worshipers instead saw plywood everything new put in,” he said. “The has not been taken away,” he noted. “I panels at the back of the sanctuary. walls remained and major structural think it’s only been enhanced by the Father Jenkins found a spiritual lesson items remained. But there’s a new roof. design.” in this: faith is always under construction. Even a lot of the walls were cut so that St. Michael parishioner David “It’s providential in some way that it’s we can have more viewing space in the O’Donnell agrees. A retired engineer not finished,” he said at the end of the narthex now.” who supervised construction projects liturgy. “It reflects our own faith. As we A major change in the church building at Eli Lilly and Company, O’Donnell build this beautiful church … , we need is its interior reorientation. When it was was involved in the development of to build up our own faith and build it up built in 1966, a large clear window stood the parish master plan beginning in well. We can’t just come here and worship. above its back entrance while a tall wall 2012 and helped oversee the renovation When we leave this place, we need to stood behind the sanctuary. project, visiting the parish daily during spread Christ’s joy and his love and help About 15 years ago, a colorful the renovation to check on the work. with charity throughout this community.” stained-glass window of St. Michael the “[The reorientation] gives it a totally The coronavirus pandemic isn’t the Archangel was installed in the window different appearance, a different look, only challenge that St. Michael Parish above the entrance. a different feel,” O’Donnell said. “And has faced since it was founded in 1860. The renovation project turned the that’s a beautiful piece of stained glass. interior around, You see the crucifix, and it’s enhanced putting the stained- by the stained glass.” glass window St. Michael Church has been a special behind the altar place for the parish’s executive assistant, in a place where Christie Murphy. It’s where her children Archbishop Charles C. Thompson delivers a worshipers can were baptized, received their first homily during a Jan. 30 dedication Mass at see it and a large Communion and entered more deeply St. Michael Church in Greenfield. crucifix at its base into their faith. during liturgies. It’s also where her father, the late She and other women in the parish The change also Deacon Wayne Davis, ministered from assisted in the symbolically rich Mass by allowed for the his ordination in 2008 until his death in preparing the altar for the liturgy of the construction of 2019. Eucharist. Minutes before, Archbishop a large narthex Yet the Jan. 30 dedication stands out Thompson had anointed it with chrism oil, behind the new for her. rubbing it across the altar’s entire surface. entrance to the “It’s probably one of the most Murphy and the other women church. exciting things that I’ve experienced carefully used towels to soak up the Father Jenkins in this parish,” Murphy said after excess chrism oil. She was pleased that said the renovation the dedication Mass. “It’s been so such a mundane act of cleaning could Father Aaron Jenkins, pastor of St. Michael Parish in Greenfield, “does a great job anticipated. All of the parishioners have become a sacred act of worship. distributes Communion to Anne Bauer during a Jan. 30 dedication Mass at of respecting what really contributed to the success of the “It felt like we were ministering to the Indianapolis East Deanery’s church. came before us.” campaign and to the building.” Christ as we were trying to clean the altar and make it beautiful,” Murphy said. She wished that more of her fellow parishioners could have been there to share in the church dedication. Seating was limited due to ongoing restrictions to slow the spread of the coronavirus. “We wanted to fit more people in,” Murphy said. “That was hard. It was great that so many people were here and able to experience it. But I just wish that we could have had a full church.” Murphy’s desire to gather with more parishioners points to her and O’Donnell’s belief that the renovation is a sign of a positive future for St. Michael Parish. “I think parishioners will be excited when they are in the renovated church and see the expanded narthex,” O’Donnell said. “I think the pandemic has maybe sapped some energy from all phases of life. Hopefully, it will inject a new enthusiasm.” “We’re a very faithful parish,” Murphy said. “We’re an engaged parish. Going forward, that’s just going to continue. The changes to the building will help inspire changes within the parish. We’ll become more active and cohesive. It breathes a new life into the parish.”

(For more photos from the dedication Mass, visit www.CriterionOnline.com. To Archbishop Charles C. Thompson prays the eucharistic prayer while worshipers kneel during a Jan. 30 dedication Mass at St. Michael Church in learn more about St. Michael Parish in Greenfield. Greenfield, visit stmichaelsgrfld.org.) †