Quick viewing(Text Mode)

Pope Francis Sends Strong Message to U.S. Catholics After George

Pope Francis Sends Strong Message to U.S. Catholics After George

n SPRING 2020 n ISSUE 52

OFFICE OF MULTICULTURAL MINISTRY MAGAZINE

IN THIS ISSUE: UPHOLD HUMAN DIGNITY & REJECT page 3 THE NATIONAL BLACK CONGRESS Francis Sends STATEMENT page 4 Strong Message to : A GIFT TO THE page 5 U.S. Catholics After SCHOOLS INCLUSIVITY George Floyd’s page 6 By Nicole Winfield and Elana Schor COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS HELPING TO SERVE page 7 A REFLECTION ON BLACK (CNS) TIME CATHOLIC HISTORY 10, 2020 4:42 AM EDT () page 8 — called George Floyd by , Pope Francis holds his as he attends at the Vatican of St. ’s on 31, 2020. ASIAN PACIFIC AMERICAN twice, and offered support to an American Vatican Pool/Getty Images HERITAGE MONTH who knelt in during a Black Lives Matter page 10 . American Catholics should stand ahead of President ’s bid for a second term BRIDGING THE GAP: HUNGER AND HEALTH FOR SENIORS Cardinals black and have spoken out about in . page 11 Floyd’s death, and the Vatican’s communications juggernaut has shifted into overdrive to draw Francis “wants to send a very clear message to FULFILL THE OF attention to the cause he now represents. these conservative Catholics here who are pro- page 12 Trumpers that, ‘Listen, this is just as much of CONTINUING MY Under normal circumstances, Floyd’s killing at an issue as is,’” said Anthea Butler, a JOURNEY the hands of a white police officer and the global presidential visiting fellow at Yale Divinity School. page 14 denouncing racism and police brutality WEST LOUISVILLE might have drawn a muted diplomatic response Butler, who is African American, said the Vatican REDEVELOPMENT from the . But in a U.S. year, the is telling Catholics “to pay attention to the racism page 15 intensity and consistency of the Vatican’s reaction that is happening and the racism that is in your DATES TO REMEMBER suggests that, from the pope on down, it is own church in America.” page 16 seeking to encourage anti-racism protesters while making a clear statement about where CONTINUED ON PAGE 2 CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 While the Holy See would loath to be seen as picking sides to the U.S. election, its media operation has made clear its The Vatican has long spoken out about backing for peaceful protests, denouncing racial injustice, and dating to Paul injustices suffered by black VI have voiced support for the civil rights and underlining its longtime support of movement and King Jr.’s King’s message. message of nonviolent protest. History’s first pope from the global south is no ’s L’Osservatore Romano different. He quoted King at length during newspaper featured three Floyd-related his historic speech to the U.S. Congress in stories on its front page. The first was that 2015 and met with King’s daughter, as his 1 million people were expected to protest predecessor had done. that day in Washington.

But the degree to which Francis and the A second story was about a video showing Vatican have seized on Floyd’s killing two U.S. police officers shoving 75-year- is unusual and suggests a coordinated old Martin Gugino, a white Catholic messaging strategy aimed at a national protester, to the ground in Buffalo. “Go church that Francis has long criticized for watch it, please,” the article said. Bishop Mark Seitz of El Paso, , kneels at El its political and ideological partisanship, Paso’s Park holding a Black Lives Matter said Alberto Melloni, a church historian sign . Seitz and other from the Its third story was about a prayer service and secretary of the John XXIII prayed and kneeled for eight minutes, the time presided over by the highest-ranking Foundation for in George Floyd, an unarmed black man, spent under American at the Vatican, Cardinal Kevin a police officer’s knee before dying May 25. (CNS/ , . Courtesy of El Paso Diocese/Fernie Ceniceros) Farrell, who decried how America’s constitutional ideals were failing its black “It’s not like seven people had the same Francis spoke out after Trump citizens. type of reaction” by chance, Melloni said. posed in front of an Episcopal church near the White House, in hand, In an interview, Farrell said he has spoken Last week, Francis denounced the “ of after enforcement aggressively forced to Francis in the past about America’s race racism” and twice identified Floyd as the protesters away from a nearby park. problems, which he saw up close as an victim of a “tragic” killing. In a message in Washington. Farrell read in Italian and English during his A day later, Trump visited the St. John said Francis is well versed in King and general audience, Francis expressed Paul II , a visit denounced by the American history. concerns about violence during the highest-ranking African American protests, saying it was self-destructive. in the U.S., Wilton Francis “knows what the principle was, of Washington, D.C., whom Francis and he knows what the struggle was,” He also said, “We cannot close our eyes appointed to the politically important Farrell said. to any form of racism or exclusion, while position last year. Gregory said he found pretending to defend the sacredness of it “baffling and reprehensible that any Natalia Imperatori-Lee, a professor of every human .” Catholic facility would allow itself to be so religious studies at , egregiously misused and manipulated.” said the Vatican’s message is having an It was a clear effort to call out some effect on American Catholics. conservative Catholics for whom the In that vein, the pope’s phone call to abortion issue is paramount, while other Texas Bishop Mark Seitz of El Paso last “We are starting to see a kind of fissure “life” issues dear to Francis — racism, week appeared quietly significant. Seitz emerge,” she said. “Whether that’s going to immigration, the death penalty and has taken a leading role in demanding be long lasting or whether it is a sign of a — play second fiddle at the ballot fair treatment for migrants attempting to paradigm , I think it’s too early to tell.” box. cross the southern U.S. border, a cause Francis has championed in ways that have A poll from the nonprofit Public Francis has firmly upheld the church’s fueled tensions with Trump. Research Institute last week found that the opposition to abortion. And polls show a share of white Catholics holding favorable plurality of American Catholics support Francis called Seitz unexpectedly after he views of Trump had dropped by double significant restrictions on legal abortion. was photographed in prayer at a digits since last year, registering 37% in Black Lives Matter protest. Seitz said the the last week of May compared with 49% But Francis has also lamented that the pope thanked him without mentioning across 2019. U.S. church is “obsessed” with abortion, the demonstration, but the context was contraception and gay to the clear: “My recent words and actions on The test, Imperatori-Lee said, will be if detriment of its other teachings. Trump the events that are taking place in the are still preaching about racism is staking his outreach to Catholic voters now” after Floyd’s killing. in six months. And beyond that: “I guess largely on his anti-abortion platform. we’ll know if this works when Catholics Francis was not alone in making the go to the polls in November.” 2 Vatican’s views known. Schor contributed from New . n Uphold Human Dignity & REJECT RACISM By Most Reverend Joseph E. Kurtz The Record June 11, 2020 voice to the pain of the community and transformation of the human heart – that to the desire for truth and justice to be impels us to act.” Each one of us is called served. With you, I also greatly lament to join with our neighbor in opening the senseless violence that took place wide our to a conversion that last evening during an initially peaceful rejects racism, aware that in that very act, protest related to this tragedy.” we are claiming our own dignity.

Over the last two months in dealing When I was growing up and did with the COVID-19 pandemic, we have something wrong, on many occasions focused on the common good as the my dear would say something foundation of . that brought me to my senses. She would On , , we celebrate the Thus, we have embraced social distancing say, “What you just did was beneath of the of , and good to protect the lives your dignity.” Together as one body of and we desperately need His divine of others, so that even those of us not , we defend the dignity of every . These days our hearts are pulled showing symptoms will mitigate passing human being and most especially in this so hard. The COVID-19 pandemic has on the deadly virus. tragic time, we decry the sin of racism in taken more than 100,000 lives in the which people are judged by the color of and many more globally, Our Catholic social teaching also their skin rather than the content of their but we have begun to return to the Holy guide our response to racism. A central character. , safely and slowly. Just as understanding is the dignity of the we begin to rejoice, our consciousness individual created in the image and We must remember that Church teaching is raised yet again about the deadly likeness of God. The protests have been supports peaceful and legitimate protests consequences of the sin of racism and calling for justice with a frequent theme: – protests that need to be heard if we the need to confront this sin with our without justice, there can be no . are to grow as a healthy community. Catholic faith. Complicating the peaceful When The Courier Journal interviewed Sadly, these legitimate efforts to raise and legitimate protests in the streets me, I mentioned both short-term and voices for justice and for peace have of Louisville are acts of violence and long-term actions that need to take place been co-opted, even in our own city of destruction that risk doing harm, not within our communities. In the short Louisville, by destructive acts of violence. only to lives and property, but also to the term, of course, we all urge our public Rioters are taking advantage of the attention that must remain on eradicating to bring about a just resolution unrest and threatening to confuse the racism. to the recent tragic deaths of African legitimate message for justice and peace. Americans in our nation. Walking through the downtown area that Yesterday in his audience surrounds the , I witnessed from , Pope Francis summarized it Much needed and even more difficult is firsthand the results of the destruction well: “We cannot tolerate or turn a blind the long-term process of changing hearts, and even the remnants of looting. These eye to racism and exclusion in any form. beginning with ourselves. Among the actions have no place in a community At the same time, we have to recognize many quotes for which Reverend Martin that seeks the dignity of every person, that violence is self-destructive and self- Luther King Jr. is remembered, certainly and they risk distracting our minds and defeating. Nothing is gained by violence, high on the list is his call – now 50 years hearts away from the central theme of and so much is lost. Let us pray for old – for persons to be judged not by addressing the of racism and seeking reconciliation and peace.” the color of their skin but by the content justice and lasting peace for all. of their character. He called forth the I wrote to Mayor Fischer at the beginning dignity of every human being, which is a Even now, we need to turn to a horizon of the protests that began in Louisville dignity that we must uphold. of hope. One of my favorite events each and shared my letter on my blog: “Please year occurs usually in early March. This know of my and support as you In November 2018, I joined with the is the annual African American Catholic lead our community through the recent Catholic of the United States Leadership Banquet that recognizes tragedy of Breonna Taylor’s death and in issuing a letter on the sin of racism adults and youth for their leadership and as you seek justice in the circumstances entitled Open Wide Our Hearts. that honors these individuals as that led to her death. With you, I support Paragraph 20 states: “Racism is a moral legitimate peaceful protests that give problem that requires a moral remedy – a CONTINUED ON PAGE 4 3 CONTINUED FROM PAGE 3 examples. This year was the 30th such THE NATIONAL BLACK banquet, and I was not disappointed, especially as I heard young people ® stand up and speak of the contributions CATHOLIC CONGRESS of their faith and as well as the desire to live up to the dignity that is Statement Regarding the theirs. These words were spoken with confidence in opportunities for a future Death of George Floyd filled with hope and promise. We need their voices and our resolve to make By Most Reverend Roy E. Campbell, Jr. their come alive. President of the National Black Catholic Congress I cannot easily walk in the footsteps of an African American man or woman Issued June 3, 2020 who has experienced the hatred of racism and the closed-door of defeat. My fellow citizens of these United States of America, we Humbly, I can only find ways to have witnessed in graphic video detail, racism on display encourage all of us, regardless of the in the twenty-first century in the killing of George Floyd, color of our skin, to see the dignity of an arrested, unarmed, hand-cuffed and subdued black each human being and to seek the step man by a white police officer, who refused to acknowledge a fellow human being’s that God calls us to take in fostering cries of distress. respect for the dignity of every human The National Black Catholic Congress (the Congress) joins the nonviolent calls and being. Rejecting the sin of racism and protests for a complete and transparent investigation of the killing of Mr. Floyd seeking a better path, we pray: “Sacred in , . Along with a call for investigation and justice, the Heart of Jesus, make our hearts like Congress echoes Archbishop , of the Archdiocese of Paul and unto Thine.” n Minneapolis, in which he states in part, “…Let us pray for comfort for his grieving family and friends, peace for a hurting community and prudence while the process moves forward. We need a full investigation that results in rightful accountability and veritable justice…”. Justice is what Mr. Floyd and his family and friends deserve. Justice through equal and fair treatment under the law is what every person in this country deserves. Justice brings about Peace, and Peace allows Love to Flourish. This is what the founding fathers of this country tried to promote in the and what this nation fought a Civil War to uphold, that ended one hundred and fifty-five years ago. However, the racism brought on by the enslavement of Black Americans in the years leading up to the establishment of the United States of America to the Civil War, still exists and all too frequently displays its ugly effects today in racist attitudes and actions that discriminate one people from another. The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. once wrote: “Discrimination is a hellhound that gnaws at Negroes in every waking moment of their lives to remind them that the lie of their inferiority is accepted as truth in the society dominating them.” He also wrote: “Law and order exist for the purpose of establishing justice and when they fail in this purpose, they become the dangerously structured dams that block the flow of social progress.” Today, as we seek justice for George Floyd and his family, each of us must commit ourselves to the untiring pursuit of Justice, Peace and Love for every person in this country; because, together every person in this country makes us the United States of America. n

4 The common denominator is love. Hispanics: A Gift to the Church By Mrs. M. Annette Mandley-Turner Executive Director Office of Multicultural Ministry The archdioceses have witnessed an reflects vibrant activities increase among Catholics who are young with large percentages of , first adults whose average age is mid-twenties communions, and among as compared to others in the Church. children. It continues to be the To meet the growing needs of the young of parents that the need for the Church, we must continue developing of , and a profound programs that are culturally relevant in understanding of the Real Presence of Spanish, such as the Hispanic Leadership Jesus in the Holy Eucharist is necessary. Programs, Hispanic Formation, Days of Reflection and, retreats offered by Realistically, we admit that while the Office of Multicultural Ministry thanking God, Hispanic Catholics Hispanics are not a problem for the (OMM). OMM has a history of working most often remain loyal to their faith. Church, but rather a which in collaboration with other offices and Unfortunately, some are also leaving the is the sentiment of the bishops of the agencies in our Archdiocese who possess Church. United States. additional expertise in various areas. Outreach is critical in our Hispanic The presence of our diverse Hispanic Our efforts to provide opportunities for communities. We can no longer community is visible throughout the young adults to embrace formation via procrastinate as Hispanics leave the USA, while all are not Catholic many pastoral institutes, , on-line Church, nor wait for them to come are. The growth of the programs, and are on-going. find us. We must embrace the ministry at present, rests primarily in the Western The energy Hispanic Catholics bring to the of evangelization and the role we play and Southern states due to the presence faith community is essential to life. in that ministry. We must be more of two fast-growing groups – Asian welcoming and accepting of Hispanic Pacific Island (API) and Hispanics. In many instances, our with culture and traditions. n In those states, APIs are said to be the ministry efforts focused on Hispanics, fastest-growing population.

En muchos casos, nuestras parroquias con Los : un para la Iglesia esfuerzos de ministerio enfocados en los Por M. Annette Mandley-Turner hispanos reflejan actividades sacramentales vibrantes con altos porcentajes de Directora Ejecutiva Oficina del Ministerio Multicultural bautismos, primeras comuniones y Los hispanos no son un problema para Para satisfacer las necesidades crecientes confirmaciones entre niños hispanos. la Iglesia, sino una bendición lo cual es de la Iglesia joven, debemos continuar Sigue siendo la creencia de los padres el sentir de los obispos de los Estados desarrollando programas que sean que la necesidad del sacramento de la Unidos. culturalmente relevantes en español, penitencia, y una comprensión profunda como el Programa de Liderazgo de la Presencia Real de Jesús en la Sagrada La presencia de nuestra diversidad Hispano, formación hispana, días de Eucaristía es importante. hispana es visible en todo Estados reflexión y retiros ofrecidos por la Siendo realistas, admitimos que, aunque Unidos, aunque no todos son católicos, Oficina del Ministerio Multicultural agradecemos a Dios, los católicos hispanos muchos lo son. El crecimiento de la (OMM). OMM tiene un historial a menudo permanecen fieles a su fe; pero Iglesia católica en la actualidad tiene de trabajo en colaboración con desafortunadamente, algunos también lugar principalmente en los estados del otras oficinas y agencias en nuestra están dejando la Iglesia. oeste y del sur debido a la presencia de Arquidiócesis que posee experiencia dos grupos de rápido crecimiento: los adicional en varias áreas. El alcance es crítico en nuestras asiáticos de las islas del pacífico (API) y comunidades hispanas. Ya no podemos los hispanos. En esos estados, se dice que Nuestros esfuerzos para proporcionar posponer las cosas mientras los hispanos las API son la población de más rápido oportunidades para que los jóvenes abandonan la Iglesia, ni esperar a que crecimiento. adultos adopten la formación a través vengan a buscarnos. Debemos acoger el Las arquidiócesis ha sido testigo de un de institutos pastorales, seminarios, ministerio de evangelización y el papel aumento entre los católicos que son programas en línea y universidades están que desempeñamos en ese ministerio. adultos jóvenes cuya edad promedio en curso. La energía que los católicos Debemos ser más acogedores y aceptar la está a mediados de sus veintes en hispanos aportan a la comunidad de fe es cultura y las tradiciones comparación con otros en la Iglesia. esencial para la vida parroquial. hispanas. n 5 THERE IS A CLEAR CULTURE OF INCLUSIVITY AT SACRED HEART SCHOOLS By Dr. L. Bratcher, Principal Sacred Heart Model School Sacred Heart Schools does not talk very important topic of diversity and the talk, we walk the walk. Diversity inclusion. The activity that Ms. Mulligan and Inclusion is part of who we are. It facilitated made visible for me how is what we do. This past school year, ‘monochromatic’ my own personal world Ms. Annette Mandley-Turner and is. I look forward to future opportunities Ms. Janice Mulligan, from the Office to continue the conversation”. of Multicultural Ministry, offered a workshop for several of the Sacred Heart As part of an International Baccalaureate School staff members. The workshop (IB) World School, Sacred Heart was intitled Embracing a Culture of students, in preschool through grade Inclusivity and provided further insight 12 at our high school, focus on and perspective into the topic. Ms. International mindedness. The aim of Mulligan walked those who attended all IB programs is to develop inquiring, the workshop through an exercise to see knowledgeable and caring young people how diverse their personal world really who help to create a better and more is. From the activity, the participants peaceful world through intercultural were able to see where they were doing understanding and respect. Diversity well and where they have work to do in and inclusion are infused throughout order to become more aware of diversity the curriculum and is a daily practice. In and inclusion. Mrs. Amy Nall, Assistant fact, through our common connection Principal and of Studies at Sacred as members of God’s family, Sacred Heart attended the workshop Heart Schools celebrates diversity and and said, “attending the professional reverences all people. Our inclusive learning session, Embracing a Culture of culture enables all students, and Inclusivity, provided a forum for open staff to develop and thrive while sharing dialogue and reflection on the their God-given talents. n

6 Community Partnerships Helping to Serve

By Ms. Janice Mulligan, Associate Director African American Catholic Ministries The Catholic Enrichment Center (CEC) forum about the history of various serves the community through a variety areas or people important to Louisville/ of partnerships. These partnerships . Recent topics have included reflect the desire to reach out to people presentations about Rudd, throughout the greater Louisville area. Greenwood , and Anatomy of a One partnership is Healthy Cooking Neighborhood. classes with the American Heart Association and Passport. On Tuesdays A third partnership involves St. John’s Chef Sunshine presented heart healthy Center for Homeless Men. Each recipes that participants enjoyed and can Friday, staff and clients from St. John’s repeat at home. The first class featured Center come to the CEC to offer group chicken fajitas, which used plain Greek discussion and support for men who yogurt instead of sour cream. One transition to permanent housing. The person attended the class because his CEC offers an intimate, comfortable, recommended a healthier diet. and accessible space for this work. The Another indicated that she wanted to Computer Lab, St. Jude Family Suite, and wean herself from medications and to Hall also provide further adopt a healthier diet. Chef Sunshine potential for additional options to make also provided general tips for cooking at their work more impactful. home on a budget, a concern for several on a fixed income. These are just a few of the ways that the Catholic Enrichment Center works to The Plato Institute is another partnership be inclusive, reaching out to all people that occurs at the CEC. It is headed by throughout the community. To learn Martina N. Kunnecke, President of the more about these or other programs at Plato Academy. Each month the CEC, or to discuss other potential the community is invited to a public partnerships, please call (502)776-0262. n

- St. , foundress of the Ursuline Sisters -

7 A Reflection on Black CATHOLIC HISTORY By Rev. Joseph A. Brown, SJ, Ph.D. Professor, Department of Africana Studies Southern Carbondale Yes, the Jamestown Colony did establish “In 1670 English planters challenged what is now the Commonwealth of Spanish territorial claims to the entire . But there were no “United Atlantic seaboard and established a States” in 1619. There were colonies settlement at Charles Town. Shortly all across the continent, established by thereafter, their slaves began escaping to St. various European powers, from the Augustine, claiming they desired Dutch to the Spanish to the English. in the “True Faith.” Rather than return the Focusing just on the Spanish, the runaways as English owners demanded, Spanish colonies in “what is now the the offered them religious United States,” would have included . A royal of 1693 granted territory stretching from to “liberty to all . . . the men as well as the New (and we have the presence women ... so that by their example and by of the Territory of ). The my liberality... others will do the same.” “conquerors” (conquistadors) were not During the next decades more fugitives Each time we are called to reflect on just devasting Native/Indigenous cultures from Carolina straggled into St. Augustine, the long history of the enslavement of in what is now Mexico down through and in 1738 the Spanish governor Africans in what is now the United States into established the runaways in the free black of America, we are pointed to the arrival – these adventurers were also walking settlement of Gracia Real de Santa Teresa in 1619, on the shore of Point Comfort, across the territory that is now the south de Mose, about two north of Jamestown Colony, of a ship bearing and southwest of the United States. They St. Augustine.” “twenty and odd Negroes”, for sale to the got here in the 1500’s and had Africans English settlers. Many historians and on those boats. While some of the Perhaps we can honor those self- culture-workers have said the year 2019 Africans on those boats were free, some converting ancestors of faith and , was the 400th anniversary of the formal were enslaved. and still learn some perspectives of introduction of African enslavement history that all-too-often, ignore the in the United States. Many voices have What we must pay attention to, is that self-aware, self-motivating and self- been raised in response to this call to the conscripted and captured Africans determining women and men who have remember this history. Some have offered were also most likely Catholic. The shown us the way, even if we were not , gratitude and humble establishment of St. Augustine in conscious of the map of our faith journey awareness of placing at the center Florida in 1565, quickly demonstrated that was first drawn. We can honor them of what “America” means. Others have the guiding principle of by also being bold and brave. n challenged this anniversary recollection – domination: introduce racially-shaped and those challenges (as can also be easily slavery into the society. By 1581, there predicted) have ranged all around the were at least 50 enslaved Africans in circle of complaint. St. Augustine (https://sharondraper. com/timeline.pdf). When Florida was The reflection here is, perhaps ceded to the United States in 1821, it surprisingly, a voice of caution and was a slave-dependent colony, and it was correction – especially for those of us Catholic. Historians tell us that many who seek to understand how the 1619 of the runaways, on the Underground remembrance affects those who belong Railroad, did not journey only to the to the Black Catholic community in the North or to the far West. Many escaped U. S. To repeat what all folks know: every to Florida and many were quite articulate story has at least three or four sides; and in stating that part of their goal was to nothing is as simple as it seems on first become Catholic. This quotation, alone, encounter. can underscore this point (from The African American Heritage of Florida, Edited by R. Colburn and Jane L. 8 Landers. p. 22): Courtesy of National Black Catholic Congress Holy Men and Women on the Road to Sainthood

Courtesy of National Black Catholic Congress & Diocese of Columbus Walking with the : Holy Men and Women on the Road to Venerable • Venerable Mother Henriette DeLille Mother Mary Lange, OSP • Venerable Fr. Tolton Servant of God • Servant of God Sr. Thea Bowman

African American Catholic Resources

The History of Black Catholics Racial Justice and the Race Talk and the Conspiracy of : in the United States by Catholic Church by Understanding and Facilitating Rev. Davis Rev. Bryan N. Massingale Difficult Dialogues on Race by Derald Wing Sue For He Himself is our peace, who made both groups into one and broke down the barrier of the dividing wall. ~Ephesians 2:14 9 What is Asian Pacific American Heritage Month (APAHM) May is Asian Pacific American Heritage Month (APAHM), celebrating the achievements and contributions of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders in the United States. month-long celebration. In 1992, the and 1.4 Million Native Hawaiian and History of APAHM designation of May as Asian- Other Pacific Islanders living in the In June 1977, Reps. Frank Horton of New Pacific American Heritage Month was United States. Though society has grown York and Norman Y. Mineta of signed into law. to accept cultural diversity, the recent introduced a House resolution to proclaim pandemic has shown that we still need the first ten days of May as Asian-Pacific The month of May was chosen to to continue holding conversations about American Heritage week. The following commemorate the arrival of the first diversity and inclusion. month, Senators Daniel K. Inouye and Japanese immigrants to the United Spark Matsunaga from introduced States on , 1843, and to mark the Communities often observe Asian a similar bill in the Senate. Both were anniversary of the completion of the American and Pacific Islander Heritage passed and on 5, 1978, President transcontinental railroad on , Month by holding and signed a Joint Resolution 1869. The majority of the workers who -based activities that highlight designating the annual celebration. laid the tracks were Chinese immigrants. the vastly diverse cultures associated with people of Asian and Pacific Islander In 1990, President George H. W. Bush According to the 2018 estimates from the descent and celebrate notable Asian signed a bill passed by Congress to United States Census Bureau, there are Americans and Pacific Islanders who extend the week-long celebration to a over 22 Million Asian Americans have made an impact in history. n

Asian and Pacific Island Resources ENCOUNTERING CHRIST IN HARMONY Encountering Christ in Harmony: This much anticipated pastoral response will guide the A Pastoral response to Our Asian and Catholic Church in the United States in addressing the pastoral needs of Asian and Pacific Island communities PacificIsland Brothers and Sisters and provide a framework for and parishes to Small Book Series create pastoral plans specific to their circumstances. • Rooted in Tradition: The Chamorro The Asian and Pacific Island population in the United Catholics in the United States States is the fastest growing minority population, • Harmony in Faith: Korean American according to research referenced in the document. Yet, Catholics this population “tends to go unrecognized in the wider • Resettling in Place: A Vietnamese US society, and there remains a need to bring more American Catholic Experience attention and support Asian and Pacific Island Presence to the Asian and Pacific Harmony in Faith: Island communities,” the bishops say in the pastoral • Bishops’ Statement - Asian and Pacific Presence: Harmony in Faith (English) response. Encountering Christ in Harmony hopes to • Asian and Pacific Presence: Harmony advance the Church’s of evangelization to specific in Faith (English) cultural groups. • Asian and Pacific Presence: Harmony in Faith (Chinese) BROTHERS AND SISTERS TO US • Asian and Pacific Presence: Harmony This landmark promotes discussion and in Faith (Spanish) action against racism, “an evil which endures in our • Asian and Pacific Presence: Harmony in Faith (Vietnamese) society and in our Church.” The English/Spanish edition also includes For the Love of One Another: A Special Message on the Occasion of the Tenth Anniversary of 10 “Brothers and Sisters to Us.” Archdiocese of Louisville Bridging the GapOffice Between of Multicultural Ministry Catholic Enrichment Center HUNGER & HEALTHSummer FOR Academic SENIORS & Cultural ByEnrichment Mr. Michael L. ProgramBrooks, PhD Office Manager, Catholic Enrichment Center goal is to improve the health of seniors, advantage of all the resources available at least sixty (60) years of age, by to them in the community. Closing the supplementing their diets with nutritious hunger gap is a network of organizations USDA commodity foods, such as grains, and individuals working together to proteins, fruits and vegetables. expand hunger relief efforts through food programs that promote and Family caregivers can help their senior address the root causes of hunger. The loved ones get the nutrition they need Office of Multicultural Ministry and its with these two strategies: Catholic Enrichment Center takes pride 1) Connect them with all the in servicing our brothers and sisters who benefits for which they are eligible, are in dire need of food to combat the One in eight seniors in Kentuckiana is including supplemental nutrition hunger crisis in our community. at risk of hunger due to limited budgets, assistance programs. declining mobility or medical issues. 2) Find and secure either home The Catholic Enrichment Center To respond to this need, the Office delivered meals or meals that can be operates its Senior Commodity Program of Multicultural Ministry’s Catholic picked up at a participating Dare to Care for seniors residing in the 40211-zip code Enrichment Center has partnered food site. every Tuesday from 9:00 am - 4:00 pm. with Dare to Care in the An application prior to participating Commodities Supplemental Food Seniors need everyone’s assistance to in the program is required. Once the Program (CSFP). This federal program give them access to the most nutritious application has been approved on site, provides monthly, well-balanced food foods in an effort to keep them healthy as the participating senior is able to pick up packages to low-income seniors who they age. They need family caregivers to their food commodity box once a month. meet certain eligibility requirements. Our support and assist them in taking Good Nutrition is Good Health! n

11 Fulfill The Dream Of God! Walk for Justice Speech By Fr. John T. Judie Louisville, KY , 2020 sentences rendered for those slaves who in one’s mind, then there can be no true tried to escape, seeking freedom from justice in one’s heart. such oppression. Our people being regarded and treated, not as persons We do not have to look very far to see but as property. This is a violation and those who are the privileged while we betrayal of the dream of God! can cite many areas where we have been denied access to the same privileges. From the historical period to today, We hear from those in religious circles these problems (and many more) who speak and pray so much for the The prophet speaks a word from continue to exist in America: lack of unborn, but some see no need to act in God as he says: “Let justice roll like a healthcare insurance; less access to a supportive way for those who have river, and righteousness like an ever- healthcare itself; negligent treatment been born. We have talked too many flowing stream.” Justice is directly tied from and by healthcare professionals; talks, attended too many workshops to God’s Word and God’s will. Being less than adequate housing; unsafe and made too many suggestions to our just is intimately connected to being and unsanitary working conditions, leaders about what is best for us, only to in right relationship with God and in preferential treatment given to see no follow up or productive response right relationship with one another. We over people of color in the corporate from them to address our needs. So, we walk today to call for justice in an unjust world; in academic institutions and stand here with our brothers and sisters society, not just because it is our dream in the Church; exclusion from the anywhere and everywhere across our or Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s dream but conversation and decision-making on country to say that none of this is a part because this is God’s dream! Everyone matters that directly affect our Black of the dream of God for all of us. This is needs to face the humanizing realization communities; and the list goes on and not the way of life we should be forced that every other person is another “self”, on. We walk today, we stand today, to live, and it should not be the kind of just like us, endowed with inalienable we cry out today: “There is no justice life our children, grandchildren and the rights identical to our own. It is a fact rendered to us in this!” This is a generations to come need to inherit from that if one profits unduly it means that violation and betrayal of the dream us. We are calling for change, radical someone else had to pay unduly. If some of God. change, systemic change that digs into or “someones” have been disadvantaged, the very depths of everyone’s , so that it means that somebody else has taken We look at the recent murders of African we come to be the community of people advantage of them. If some are treated as Americans by and rise, on this that God made us to be. It the privileged, then it means that others all across these United States of America, is time for all of us to work to fulfill the have been denied the same privileges. to say: “Enough is enough!” We have dream of God! We are all children of God who made us, been out “racism” in so many neither lords nor lackeys but equal to one areas of life here in America and, for far Every living person on this has another in the eyes of God. too long, our cries have fallen on deaf a . Every one of us needs to ears. Let us look, not just at the recent make sure that all of us has a right to Racism is a deeply-rooted systemic incidences of racially motivated murders those things which afford us a quality problem and it is as dangerous and of Black folk by white folk in the past of life which upholds the dignity of life destructive as cancer in the blood. It few months, but the 102 such murders for every human being. For this reason, works constantly to eat away and destroy just in this past decade. We question it becomes unacceptable — to know the the very spirit and soul of our human why it has taken those in our law rightness or wrongness of a situation community. For in enforcement system days, weeks or even and continually ignore it because we tell these United States, it can be traced as far months to bring charges against these ourselves that it’s “none of our business”. back as 1619 when the first shipload of murderers, regardless (in some cases) — to automatically become suspicious our African ancestors were taken from of video evidence that would certainly of individuals because of our own the Motherland and brought into slavery be admissable in a court of law. We hear stereotyped images of them which we in this country. America has a shameful the term “senseless violence” applied to have refused to let go of. history of how Black folk have been the incidences of rioting and looting that — to remain politically silent in the face treated here ever since: made to work has taken place in some areas. We do not of serious difficulty because the heated with no rights, our young men hanged, hear the same term “senseless violence” controversy might spoil our image as a and our young women raped, all for the being applied to the murders of George public figure or cause us to lose certain amusement of their white masters. Death Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Ahmaad Arbery, friendships. Sean Monterossa, Emmett Till and so 12 many others. If there is no true justice CONTINUED ON PAGE 13 CONTINUED FROM PAGE 12 always be honest with God, with yourself will of God demands it. If we refuse to and everyone else you deal with in life. do this, the only alternative we have (and — to allow oppression in our own lives Always be honest with others, so that the only right thing to do) is to disband because we fail to stand up and oppose they have the opportunity to understand, all our councils, resign our church the very things that oppress us. appreciate and respond to the honest membership and surrender our claim — to let other persons (and their person that is you. Before we worry to be true . Let’s hope and systems) dictate and control our lives, about being “politically correct”, let us pray that there are many more who are never attempting to bring to realization dare to be morally, ethically and socially willing to believe in the goodness of all the fullness of human dignity which God honest. Before we worry about changing humanity, who are able to see all that is has given each and every one of us. or dropping certain terminologies in good in each and every person, the same — to have the privilege to vote but fail to our language, let us be “up front” about way God did when God created us, in exercise the power of that vote to elect explaining clearly where we’re coming the first place. Now is the time for all of leaders for our civic community and our from behind whatever words we say. You us, each one of us, to stand up, to speak nation who are committed to fulfilling see, we can make changes in our , out, to step forward, to fulfill the dream the dream of God! our policies and our procedures but none of God! of it becomes real until the change takes Anything that we’re doing, or we’re place in our hearts. Everyone needs to be Let justice roll like a river and allowing to be done to us, which invited, encouraged and challenged to do righteousness like an ever-flowing diminishes the quality of human life these things, not because I suggest it but stream! My dear brothers and sisters and degrades the dignity of that life is because the Word of God and the everywhere, this is the dream of God! n unacceptable, if we are to seek justice and uphold righteousness in the eyes of God. As G. K. Chesterton once said, “You’ve got to hate society enough to want it changed, and love it enough to pitch in “But let justice roll and help save it.”

Now is the time to embrace the dream of God for all of us! Now is the on like a river, time to let go of fearing one another and work to become family to one another. Now is the time to begin with a self- righteousness like a examination, i.e. to be ready to have open minds and open hearts to learn, understand and care about the life- experiences of others around us. Now never-failing stream!” is the time to put aside everything we see that is different about us and truly embrace and celebrate the gift of life and the human dignity God has given to all ~Amos 5:24 ~ of us!

Is there a good enough reason for us and for others to wrestle with these issues? The best reason we have, the best reason that can ever be provided is recorded in the Book of Genesis, the Story of Creation. God said: “Let us create (man and woman) in our own image and likeness.” Who is the “Us” that created the human family? It is the , Son and . It is, therefore, crucially important for us to understand what this means. We are not created only in the image and likeness of the “person” of God. We are created also in the image and likeness of the “relationship” of God—Father, Son and Holy Spirit!

Finally, I invite and encourage you here and anyone else who hears this to 13 Continuing My Faith Journey By Ms. Erika Quintero Member of the Catholic Church opinions and bring to the light some and programs. It is a blessing to have of the needs within our Hispanic/ all these opportunities being offered to Catholic community. One of those needs our community. Now we must focus on The Catholic faith was introduced into mentioned was more youth and young bringing the next generation closer to my life at a very young age. Although I adult retreats, and faith formation. God. This next generation is considered don’t remember, my parents baptized me the young adults. We are part of the when I was 2 months old. Ever since then I’m pleased to say that the Director of church and we must work hard and I was taught that there is more to life. I Hispanic Ministry, Mrs. Eva Gonzalez encourage participation. There are so was taught that there is an almighty who has worked hard and done so much many young adults that are working created the world and all existing life. I for our Hispanic/Latino community. towards getting an education by going grew up knowing that there is bad and Over the past three years there has been to college or working one or more jobs. good in this world and in order to one a vocational , two retreats Many times, we as human beings lose day rejoice in God’s paradise we must do and a youth Posada. There has been an ourselves in trying to accomplish tasks good and complete our mandates. At the increase in retreats and programs not and we lose track of time. We forget to age of 12 I received the Eucharist for the only for youth and young adults, but thank for all the , and first time, and at the age of 17 I made my also for adults. The Hispanic/Latino the opportunities. But we must never Confirmation. Catholic community is being recognized forget that God is always present. He & acknowledged. There has been a major is the strength that pushes our beliefs I began getting involved in my parish push towards helping our community to fulfill our mission on earth. As a and this is where my journey began. grow and flourish in the faith. Keeping young adult myself, I hope to make a My faith grew stronger and I knew that our traditions and the love of God alive. difference and give voice to the unheard. I needed to share this love and passion To encourage the generation that follows with others. It was my spirit. I have been blessed to work within to take action, and fear no more because I attended my first retreat junior year of the Archdiocese of Louisville as the with God’s presence, everything is High School. This retreat was part of the Coordinator for Hispanic Ministry at St. possible. We just have to believe. V Encuentro. I along with many other Peter The Apostle Church. I have started middle and high schoolers, was collaborating with Mrs. Eva Gonzalez to given the opportunity to voice our organize future retreats

Por Erika Quintero, Miembro de la Continuando Mi Jornada de Fe Iglesia Católica San Pedro Apóstol La fe católica fue introducida en mi vida demás. Era mi espíritu misionero. Asistí una Posada para adolescentes está a una edad muy temprana. Aunque no a mi primer retiro en el tercer año de por realizarse también. Ha habido un lo recuerdo, mis padres me bautizaron high school, este retiro fue parte del aumento en retiros y programas, no cuando tenía 2 meses. Desde entonces V Encuentro. Junto a muchos otros solo para jóvenes y adolescentes, sino me enseñaron que hay más de la vida estudiantes de secundaria y preparatoria, también para adultos. La comunidad de aquí en la tierra. Me enseñaron que hay tuvimos la oportunidad de expresar católicos hispanos está siendo visible y un Todopoderoso que creó el mundo y nuestras opiniones y sacar a la luz reconocida. Ha habido un gran impulso toda la vida existente. Crecí sabiendo que algunas de las necesidades de nuestra para ayudar a nuestra comunidad a hay cosas buenas y malas en este mundo comunidad hispana / latina. Una de las crecer y prosperar en la fe. Manteniendo y para algún día ir al cielo y paraíso de necesidades que se mencionaron fue la nuestras tradiciones y el amor de Dios debemos hacer el bien y cumplir necesidad de más retiros para jóvenes Dios vivo. nuestros deberes. A los 12 años recibí la y adolescentes, y más programas de Eucaristía por primera vez, a los 17 años formación. He sido bendecida de trabajar dentro hice mi confirmación. de la Arquidiócesis de Louisville como Me alegra decir que la Directora Coordinadora del Ministerio Hispano Comencé a involucrarme en mi del Ministerio Hispano, la Sra. Eva en la Iglesia de San Pedro Apóstol. parroquia, aquí es donde todo comenzó. González, ha trabajado muy duro y He comenzado a colaborar con la Sra. Mi fe se fortaleció y supe que necesitaba ha progresado mucho para ayudar a Eva González para organizar retiros y compartir el amor de Dios con los nuestra comunidad hispana / latina. En programas. Es una bendición tener los últimos tres años ha habido un retiro todas estas oportunidades al alcance y vocacional, dos retiros de Cuaresma y 14 CONTINUED ON PAGE 15 CONTINUED FROM PAGE 14 disponibles para nuestra comunidad. Ahora debemos enfocarnos en acercar a la próxima generación a la participación en la iglesia. Esta próxima generación se consideran los jóvenes adultos, nosotros somos parte de la iglesia, y debemos trabajar duro y alentar la participación. Hay tantos jóvenes adultos que están trabajando para obtener una educación yendo a la universidad, trabajando en uno o más trabajos. Y muchas veces, nosotros, como seres humanos, nos perdemos al tratar de cumplir ciertas metas, y perdemos la noción del tiempo, y nos olvidamos de agradecerle al Señor por todas las bendiciones y las oportunidades. Pero nunca debemos olvidar que Dios siempre está presente. Él es la fuerza que nos empuja a cumplir con nuestras misiones aquí en la tierra. Como una joven adulta, espero usar mi voz y abrirles los corazones a muchos. Alentar a la generación que sigue a tomar acción, con la presencia de Dios todo es posible. Solo tenemos que creer y dejárselo en Sus manos. n What Does the Proposed Redevelopment of West Louisville Mean for Black Catholics and Others? By Mr. John Reed, Outreach Coordinator Everywhere you go there is a lot of Black Catholics to populate the existing lines. Hopefully, as the west end goes discussion about the redevelopment housing opportunities and others. through this process, it will study other or gentrification of the West End of communities and learn from their Louisville. Over the past few years, I One of the cons is a change in the mistakes. The one thing that I do not have been to many meetings where this cultural standards of the neighborhood. hear enough of in meetings is what the has been the main topic of discussion. Also, it can in some situations make people now living in the west end think. There has already been a visible sign the neighborhood more economically I would recommend that you listen to such as the new YMCA, the Sports disadvantaged by forcing mom & pop 89.3 WFPL’s podcast Here Today: Let and Learning Complex that is being shops out. There will be an increase in Me Understand Your Plan by Laura Ellis built by The Urban League, and the big rent for properties and gentrification (https://wfpl.org/here-today-let-me- lingering question about the Passport will effectively displace the people who understand-your-plan/), where residents building. There are several plans in place, built the community in the first place. are interviewed to get their thoughts including the Russell plan, the Broadway The community then loses it soul. on what is going on in West Louisville. plan, and One West to name a few. Gentrification causes the rich to get Community means everyone. n richer and the poor to get poorer. We Gentrification is the process of must also remember that gentrification renovation and improving a house or can create a high turnover rate as those district so that it conforms to middle in a higher income bracket can move to class taste. The effect that this will have other neighborhoods more frequently, on Black Catholics in the west end of the forcing those in a lower income bracket city is up in the air, but there are some to move out. Finally, one of the cons that assumptions that can be made. One is we all must be concerned with is that it that there will be a departure of Black can cause community conflict between Catholics from the west end causing less various groups along class and/or racial

“The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.” - MartinLuther King, Jr. ~

15 Dates to Remember Swahili Mass Every 3rd Sunday - 2:00 p.m. St. Catholic Church EDITOR/WRITER: 3112 West Broadway, Louisville, KY 40211 CHARMEIN WEATHERS Hispanic Heritage Month PRINTING: 15 – MATLY DIGITAL SOLUTIONS Italian American Heritage Month RACISM STAFF WRITERS: MICHAEL BROOKS, PHD October SYMPOSIUM DORICE FIRMIN American Indian Heritage Month EVA GONZALEZ , 2020 TASEANA MATTHEWS :00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. JANICE MULLIGAN M. ANNETTE MANDLEY-TURNER Location: TBA AUDREY PENMAN JOHN REED CHARMEIN WEATHERS Women’s History Month March PUBLISHED QUARTERLY BY THE ARCHDIOCESE OF Irish-American Heritage Month LOUISVILLE’S OFFICE OF March MULTICULTURAL MINISTRY 1200 S. SHELBY STREET Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month LOUISVILLE, KY 40203 May CELEBRATE & EMBRACE THE GIFT OF DIVERSITY!

THIS PUBLICATION CAN BE FOUND ELECTRONICALLY AT http://www.archlou.org- Departments & Services- Multicultural Ministry-Newsletter