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Photos by John Shaughnessy Photos by for papal visit to Holy Land in 2009 VATICAN CITY (CNS)—The Vatican has confirmed tentative plans for Pope Benedict XVI to visit the Holy Land in 2009. Israeli sources said the most likely time for the visit would be in May with stops in Israel and the Palestinian territories. The pope was invited to visit Israel by Pope Benedict XVI Israeli President Shimon Peres in 2007. At that time, the pope made it clear he hoped to make the trip, but Vatican diplomats said the timing would depend in large part on efforts to calm the simmering Israeli-Palestinian conflict. In recent months, Israeli and Vatican officials began making more concrete plans for a papal visit. The contacts were first reported on Nov. 27 by the Israeli newspaper Ha’aretz and were confirmed by the Israeli Embassy to the Holy See. Ha’aretz said the most likely time frame Members of the extended Hammans family help to keep alive the Holy Cross Parish tradition of feeding the needy at Thanksgiving and Christmas. for the trip is the second week in May. It said Andrea Hammans, left, Mary Hammans Qualls, Ann Tobin Pliler, Candice Qualls, Lori Hammans Tobin, Amy Tobin Kinnaman, Cecelia Hammans and Kelly the papal nuncio to Israel and the Palestinian Qualls stand with bags of food. territories, Archbishop Antonio Franco, told Peres in early November that the pope had decided to visit the country. Forty years later, family’s holiday The Vatican spokesman, Jesuit Father Federico Lombardi, confirmed that “diplomatic contacts are under way to study outreach continues at Holy Cross Parish the possibility of a papal trip to the Holy Land during the course of next year.” By John Shaughnessy “I was 5 then,” recalls Tobin, He gave no dates or details. one of their children. “He was in Father Lombardi declined to speculate on Lori Hammans Tobin has learned to the hospital for a four-year whether the papal visit would include a stop believe at least two realities of Christmas: period and he was on his at the Yad Vashem Holocaust Memorial in Sometimes Christmas arrives early. And the deathbed all the time. My mom Jerusalem. The Vatican has urged officials at best gifts don’t often come in a box. was getting calls all the time the memorial to remove from a permanent For Tobin, her best gift as a child telling her he was about to die.” display a photo caption stating that came in a phone call, a phone call that left Her mom was also struggling Pope Pius XII did nothing to condemn the her mother crying tears of joy, and she and to keep the family together. Nazis and their slaughter of the Jews. her siblings dancing and clapping in “We had nothing,” Tobin Church officials have called the caption delight. recalls. “There were six of us offensive and have defended Pope Pius for Looking back on that moment, Tobin kids then, in one bedroom, in working quietly during World War II to help shares the story of that special gift that bunk beds and cribs. We were save thousands of people, including many changed a person, a family, a parish and the living in my grandmom’s house, Jews. In October, Father Lombardi reiterated larger community. which was right next to the Vatican’s objections to the Yad Vashem It’s a Christmas story that began nearly Holy Cross Church. Catholic Bags of food for the needy line Holy Cross Church in Indian- display, but said it was not a decisive obstacle 50 years ago—with a promise from a father Social Services took care of us, apolis as the parish once again prepared to help families at to a papal visit. who was dying. with a lot of help from family Thanksgiving. The tradition, started by Holy Cross parishioner Pope Benedict has one other scheduled It’s a Christmas story that continues and friends. I remember at Francis Hammans in 1968, will also continue at Christmas. See PAPAL, page 2 today as that man’s children and Thanksgiving and Christmas grandchildren try to help other families how people brought boxes of food, and who are struggling in perhaps the toughest made sure we got presents.” Keeping the promise and most heartbreaking holiday season in She also remembers the faith that her Francis Hammans kept his promise. recent economic times. parents showed. At first, he did it by helping people “My mom taught us to pray the rosary, whenever he could. Even though his family A father’s promise that God hears the voices of little children,” was on a shoestring budget after his In 1960, Francis Hammans was a young Tobin says. “My memories are of us recovery, he reached into the refrigerator husband and father trying to make a good praying every day to let my dad live. My for milk or bread whenever he learned that life for his family. He didn’t have a high dad was praying to live, too, so he could another family needed it. school diploma because his father had died provide for his family. He told God that if Then, in 1968, he helped to start a when he was 15 and he needed to go to he was allowed to live, he would serve food pantry for the poor at Holy Cross work to help his mother and his siblings. him.” Parish. That effort led to making special Still, he had a strong work ethic By then, his lungs had collapsed and he food baskets for families in need at and a deep sense of faith, being a had kidney failure. His death was imminent. Thanksgiving and Christmas. faithful member of Holy Cross Parish on Then came the phone call. It’s a holiday tradition that still the near-eastside of Indianapolis. “It was my dad calling my mom to tell continues 40 years later. That faith and the family of Francis and her he was coming home,” Tobin says. “The On Dec. 22, members of Holy Cross his young wife, Jody, became severely doctors didn’t know how he had recovered. Parish, including a sizeable number of tested when he was diagnosed in 1960 with He was a miracle. My mom held up the people with family connections to tuberculosis, an infectious, life-threatening phone and we just danced and clapped. Francis Hammans, will distribute bags of disease. That’s the day our world changed.” See OUTREACH, page 8 Page 2 The Criterion Friday, December 5, 2008 Pope condemns terrorist attacks in India, prays for victims VATICAN CITY (CNS)—Pope Benedict XVI condemned terrorism, which gravely offend the human family and Forensic experts the wave of terrorist attacks in India as acts of “cruel and severely destabilize the peace and solidarity needed to build and policemen senseless violence,” and led prayers for the more than a civilization worthy of mankind’s noble vocation to love look through a 170 people who died and the hundreds injured in the God and neighbor.” window of Nariman bloodshed. The Vatican spokesman, Jesuit Father Federico Lombardi, House in Mumbai,

A Vatican spokesman, meanwhile, warned that if extremists said the well-coordinated attacks were reminiscent of the Datta, Reuters CNMS photo/Arko India, on Nov. 30. continue to exploit the ethnic and religious tensions of Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist acts against U.S. targets. Pope Benedict XVI southern Asia, the results could be even more tragic. In a commentary on Vatican Radio, Father Lombardi said condemned the wave Speaking at his noon blessing on Nov. 30, the pope asked the terrorists had clearly chosen India, a place of tensions of terrorist attacks in for prayers for the victims of the attacks in Mumbai, the and conflicts, as a “critical point at which to try to ignite an India and led prayers Indian financial capital, where suspected Islamic militants even more frightening conflagration, whose consequences for the more than assaulted at least 10 targets in a three-day siege that began on are difficult to imagine, given the demographic dimensions 170 people who died Nov. 26. of southern Asia and its role in world development.” and the hundreds The pope also expressed concern for the clashes between In addition to political tensions in the region, he said, injured in the rival ethnic and religious groups in Jos, Nigeria, where at least India has been troubled by “persistent and perhaps growing bloodshed. 200 people were killed on Nov. 28-29. Churches and mosques fundamentalist currents, not only in the Islamic world but were burned in the rioting. also among Hindus.” He noted that India’s minority Catholic killed,” the cardinal said in an appeal issued on Nov. 27. He “The causes and circumstances of these tragic events are community had suffered recent discrimination and attacks said the Catholic Church in Mumbai was making all its different, but there should be a common sense of horror and just as the country’s Muslim community did several years medical services available to the wounded. condemnation for the explosion of such cruel and senseless ago in a wave of anti-Islamic violence. “We must fight together as a nation and as a united people violence,” the pope told pilgrims from his apartment window “It is horrible that in today’s world religion is mixed up to combat the terrorists. We must never give up hope because overlooking St. Peter’s Square. with violence. Fundamentalism is one of the most dramatic ultimately hope will prevail,” the cardinal said. “Let us ask the Lord to touch the hearts of those who risks faced by humanity, and it challenges the conscience of The Indian bishops’ conference, meanwhile, appealed to delude themselves by thinking that this is the way to resolve every religious person,” the Vatican spokesman said. the government to take all necessary means to “guarantee the local or international problems,” he said. In India, Cardinal Gracias immediately expressed the safety of citizens, who yearn for peace and calm.” The morning after gunmen attacked the targets in Mumbai, Church’s shock and sadness at the terrorist attacks, which he India’s National Security Guard commandos killed the including the luxurious Taj Mahal hotel, the pope deplored the said were an attack upon the entire country. last group of terrorists when they battled their way into an brutality of the violence in a telegram sent to Cardinal Oswald “The Church in India condemns this attack in the area of the Taj Mahal hotel on Nov. 29. Shortly before that, Gracias of Mumbai. strongest possible terms. Innocent and unconnected people the commandos had stormed a Jewish center in the city and The papal telegram appealed “for an end to all acts of have been killed. Very brave police officers have been found six hostages dead. † Holy Father begins Advent by asking Christians to be signs of hope VATICAN CITY (CNS)—In their prayers and through “We do not await the Lord as some beautiful decoration Visiting the parish community at the Basilica of their actions in Advent, Christians are called to be signs of for a world already saved,” he said, but as the only one who St. Lawrence Outside the Walls, the pope said the Gospel of hope for the world, Pope Benedict XVI said. can bring to completion the work begun with his the first Sunday of Advent urges believers to be watchful “Advent is the spiritual season of hope par excellence, incarnation, death and resurrection. and stay awake. when the whole Church is called to become hope for itself In his Angelus address, the pope said Advent is a time “To watch means to follow the Lord, to choose that and for the world,” the pope said on Nov. 29 as he when Christians prepare to celebrate the birth of Christ which he has chosen, to love that which he loves, to celebrated vespers on the eve of the first Sunday of Advent. by making sure they welcome him fully into their hearts conform one’s life to his,” the pope said. † The pope’s homily at the evening prayer service in and lives. St. Peter’s Basilica, the morning Mass he celebrated on But, he said, it also is a time for Christians to set their Nov. 30 at Rome’s Basilica of St. Lawrence Outside the sights on the end of time and to reform their lives in a way Walls and his midday Angelus address at the Vatican that shows they are ready for the Last Judgment. PAPAL afterward all focused on Advent as a time to remember that “This requires a correct detachment from earthly continued from page 1 Christ became human, died for our sins, rose from the dead goods, sincere repentance for one’s errors, concrete acts and will return at the end of time. of charity and, especially, humbly and trustingly foreign trip on his calendar for 2009, a visit to Cameroon Advent hope, he said during the evening prayer service, placing oneself in the hands of God, our tender and and Angola in March. is a recognition of the ongoing need for salvation. merciful father,” the pope said. Pope Paul VI was the first modern pontiff to visit the Holy Land, making a pilgrimage there in 1964. In 2000, Pope John Paul II made a Holy Year visit to the Holy Land, one of a series of biblical pilgrimages he undertook in his later years as pope. †

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The Criterion (ISSN 0574- 4350) is published weekly except the last week of TheCriterion December and the first TheCriterion 12/5/08 week of January. Phone Numbers: Staff: Moving? 1400 N. Meri dian St. Main office: ...... 317-236-1570 Editor: Mike Krokos P.O. Box 1717 Advertising ...... 317-236-1572 Assistant Editor: John Shaughnessy We’ll be there waiting if you give us two weeks’ Indianapolis, IN 46206-1717 Toll free: ...... 1-800-382-9836, ext. 1570 Senior Reporter: Mary Ann Wyand Reporter: Sean Gallagher advance notice! 317-236-1570 Circulation: ...... 317-236-1425 800-382-9836 ext. 1570 Toll free: ...... 1-800-382-9836, ext. 1425 Online Editor: Brandon A. Evans Business Manager: Ron Massey [email protected] Price: Name ______$22.00 per year, 75 cents per copy Administrative Assistant: Dana Danberry Periodical postage paid at New Address______Postmaster: Senior Account Executive: Barbara Brinkman Indianapolis, IN. 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Box 1717 • Indianapolis, IN 46206-1717 Indianapolis, IN 46206-1717 The Criterion Friday, December 5, 2008 Page 3 Challenge of hunger addressed at annual interfaith service By Mary Ann Wyand to unite ourselves in the common spirit of and my office, and be perplexed and thanksgiving, praying for unity and peace in bewildered and almost beside myself trying Hundreds of candles lit from one flame our world. With one voice, let us all pray to understand why my children and my symbolized the light of faith, the glow of together.” grandchildren had life so good [in the U.S.], hope and the fire of charity during the Ethnic music from many countries and and were so blessed and so fortunate, and Wyand MaryPhotos by Ann ninth annual Interfaith Thanksgiving Service cultures enabled the participants to why so many of the children around the on Nov. 25 at SS. Peter and Paul Cathedral experience hymns and chants from a variety world were so at risk. It wasn’t fair. Where in Indianapolis. of faith traditions as songs of praise and was the equity? Where was the justice?” Participants represented the Catholic, thanks to God. Morris said he would often seek out Protestant, Jewish, Hindu, Islamic, Buddhist Keynote speaker James T. Morris clergy from various faith traditions to try to and Sikh faith traditions. of Indianapolis, who directed the gain some spiritual understanding about the Msgr. Joseph F. Schaedel, vicar general, United Nations’ World Food Programme for harsh reality of worldwide injustices. welcomed the gathering on behalf of five years from 2002 to 2007, reminded the “It’s not acceptable for a single child Archbishop Daniel M. Buechlein, who was gathering that people of all faiths and ages go anywhere in the world to be lonely or sad, to not able to preside at the interfaith service hungry throughout the world every day. be hungry and not loved,” he said, because but joined them in prayer. Morris also initiated the Interfaith Hunger God wants “the world [to] come together and “We are coming from many different Initiative, a coalition of faith-based organi- accept as universal the notion that the life of cultures, many different faith traditions,” zations working to end hunger in the any child, of every child, of any faith, Msgr. Schaedel said, “and we gather tonight U.S. and abroad. anywhere in the world, is equally sacred, “No child should ever be hungry,” Morris equally blessed and equally precious.” emphasized. “It’s not right, it’s not fair, not in Turning to the Bible, Morris said, “I this world of plenty, of goodwill, of huge would seek out support and encouragement brainpower and technology. We know how to in the holy Scriptures. … It seemed to me Geshe Lotin, left, and Ven. Dhamcoe Chopel of feed the world’s population.” that the universal lessons that human life is the Tibetan Mongolian Buddhist Cultural Center Each day, he said, there are 850 million created in the image of God, that what we in Bloomington chant the dedication prayer hungry people in the world and half of them are given must be shared with those who are from Shantideva’s Guide to the Bodhisattva’s are children. in need, and that we can reach our highest Way during the Interfaith Thanksgiving Service An estimated 2 billion people live on potential through our sacred community with on Nov. 25 at SS. Peter and Paul Cathedral in less than $2 a day, Morris said, and others, … these universal truths, were Indianapolis. another 1.25 million people live on less affirmed by all of the world’s great faiths.” than $1 a day. The prophet Mohammed taught that one Sikh tradition speaks of the need for social Tragically, 25,000 people die of hunger of the five pillars of the Islamic tradition is consciousness. every day, he said, and of that number feeding the hungry, Morris said, and giving “Mother Teresa told us that ‘our James T. Morris of Indianapolis, former 18,000 are children. the greeting of peace to everyone. humanity unites us,’ ” Morris said, “ ‘and if executive director of the United Nations’ World Every five seconds, Morris said, all day In the Christian tradition, he said, Jesus we don’t have peace it is because we have Food Programme from 2002 to 2007, discusses long, someone dies of malnutrition taught that what you do for the least among forgotten that we belong to each other.’ ” the urgent need to provide food for starving somewhere in the world. us you do unto me (Mt 25:45). The World Health Organization reports people throughout the world during his keynote “During the five years that I had the The Hebrew Scriptures cite the abundance that hunger and malnutrition is “the single address at the ninth annual Interfaith Thanks- extraordinary gift plus the pleasure and of food in the world, Morris said, and how it most serious health issue in the world giving Service on Nov. 25 at SS. Peter and Paul privilege of leading the United Nations’ is meant to be shared with all people. today,” he said, but there is hope for a Cathedral in Indianapolis. Morris founded the World Food Programme,” he said, “which “In the words of [Mohandas] Gandhi,” better future because the world’s people Interfaith Hunger Initiative, a coalition of faith- feeds more than 100 million people each Morris explained, “the great Hindu leader “have so much more in common than the based organizations working to end hunger in year in 80 countries, and with a special focus said, ‘To a hungry person, God can only artificial barriers that humankind has the U.S. and abroad. He currently serves as on women and very vulnerable children, appear as a piece of bread.’ ” found to divide us. … We share the notion president of Indiana Pacers Sports and often I would come back [from fact-finding The Buddhist tradition also identifies with of giving and caring and sharing when we Entertainment. missions in developing countries] to Rome the suffering of the poor, he said, and the come together.” † THE Heating and Air Conditioning KEEP GIVING GIFTS

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OPINION

Your Family/Bill and Monica Dodds Tips for a festive but frugal

Rev. Msgr. Raymond T. Bosler, Founding Editor, 1915 - 1994 Christmas celebration this year Most Rev. Daniel M. Buechlein, O.S.B., Publisher Greg A. Otolski, Associate Publisher We are not going to say the recent And speaking of things to watch out Mike Krokos, Editor John F. Fink, Editor Emeritus economic turmoil has a silver lining for for ... families. (If it did 4. Avoid choosing to give a homemade have one, many gift that ends up costing more than families would something store-bought. As every Editorial have grabbed it and craftsperson and hobbyist knows, that can sold it by now.) easily happen. But it does offer 5. Don’t “re-gift” an item to someone some opportunities unless you are sure that he or she didn’t to help you do first give it to you. (And neither did anyone what you have else in the circle of family or friends at that wanted to do—or particular gathering where this latest gift at least have talked exchange is taking place.) about doing—for several Christmases past. 6. Never give an item to senior family

CNS photo/Alessandro Bianchi, Reuters And that is to spend less. members without seriously considering: So here is the good news. This year, you a. Will she just see this as one more probably will spend less. The not-so-good object that has to be dusted once a week? news? You will do that because you have b. Is he just going to toss this into the less to spend or you have a well-founded sock drawer with so many other gifts from concern (or fear) that all too soon that will so many other years? be the case. If either seems likely, give the gift of Here are some tips and reminders for yourself: A pledge that you will call or visit those who in the not-so-distant past may on a regular basis. (Keep that promise!) have been “frugally challenged.” And speaking of gifts and visits ... 1. Decide on a realistic budget and stick 7. Remember that at that first Christmas to it. the initial celebration was low-budget. No, 2. Tell the kids that this year, when it we aren’t referring to the stable. We mean comes to gifts, simple (read “not the angels sang and the shepherds came to expensive”) is “in.” (Or, to paraphrase a praise God. It was only later that the wise popular expression, “Twenty dollars is the men showed up with packages. Pope Benedict XVI blesses the faithful during his pastoral visit to Rome’s Basilica of new 50 dollars.”) And, while the Gospels don’t tell us, it St. Lawrence Outside the Walls on Nov. 30 for the 1,750th anniversary of the martyrdom of 3. Stick to your guns! There is no better seems possible that Mary and Joseph later St. Lawrence. way to help your sons and daughters learn “returned” those presents to raise some that: money for what the Holy Family really a. You stick to your guns! needed: a way to cover expenses for the Gratitude makes wholeness b. It is possible to have a wonderful flight into Egypt. Christmas without spending a wad of money and ringing up more credit card debt. (Bill and Monica Dodds are the founders and healing possible This January can be the first year in a of the Friends of St. John the Caregiver long time that begins without a visit from and editors of My Daily Visitor magazine. n one of his many articles on the This is the worship that heals our the terrifying Ghost of Christmas Just Their Web site is www.FSJC.org. They can IEucharist as communion, love—which has been wounded by Passed (i.e., a big, fat credit card bill in be contacted at MonicaDodds@ Joseph Ratzinger, now sins of lust, bitterness and fear. This is the mail). YourAgingParent.com.) † Pope Benedict XVI, quotes the Greek the worship that makes us whole again philosopher Plato, who writes about the after we have been divided by politics, reciprocal communion between gods ideology and petty jealousy. Letter to the Editor and men. When we are focused on our According to Plato, “communion blessings, and express our gratitude to with the gods also brings about God, how can we feel sorry for When it comes to immigration, fellowship among men.” He notes that ourselves? And when we acknowledge this communion is the ultimate all the gifts we have received from a ‘right is right because it is’ intention and the most profound content good and gracious God, how can we be of all sacrifices, of all worship as such. envious (or covetous) of our neighbor’s Regarding Joseph Kelly’s article on this trap and lost sight of “right is right In this connection, Plato coins a gifts? immigrants in the “Faith Alive!” section of because it is,” and have decided to play the marvelous phrase that we might refer to Pope Benedict writes that the the Nov. 14 issue of The Criterion, what do semantics game with a faithful who are as a presentiment of the eucharistic mystery which has been revealed to us the immigrants of the past—which included already wondering what will happen in the mystery when he says that “worship is in the life, death and resurrection of my grandparents—have to do with the future. entirely concerned with the wholeness Jesus Christ is the inner life of God illegals coming across the border today? Breaking a duly constituted law is wrong. and the healing of love.” himself. As a result of the Incarnation, My grandparents came in legally (at the The good nuns taught me that many years Worship heals the brokenness and and the Paschal Mystery, we now time through Ellis Island), became citizens ago. We need to return to what they taught. vulnerability of love, and makes it know that “God is in himself a and embraced the totality of the We obviously need a Mexican hierarchy whole again. dialogue of eternal love.” God is love, United States of America. willing to take a stand to help their people in When we participate in the the pope reminds us, and our love, The article gave a true and proper view of Mexico rather than condoning their breaking Eucharist, we become one with the wounded and incomplete without God, immigrants during our history. the laws of a neighboring country, the U.S. Lord and with his body, the Church. We is healed in and through the The difference between my grandparents, We need a U.S. hierarchy to work with them bring to the table our wounds and our eucharistic sacrifice. and other immigrants of that time, and in this endeavor. incompleteness, and we allow the What must we do to be healed, to today’s Hispanics coming in is that the Do not compare those here illegally now sacrifice of Jesus, and our communion become holy? We must thank God for former obeyed the laws of this country while with my grandparents and those of my with him, to make us whole again. his goodness to us. We must open those coming from Mexico do not, have no friends, who obeyed the laws and worked In the Eucharist, we offer to God our ourselves to the power of his love and or little intention of becoming citizens and hard to instill this respect for authority in praise and thanksgiving for all that he let his healing power (his grace) enter hope to take as much advantage of the their children and grandchildren. has given us, and we open ourselves to into our minds and hearts. We must largesse of this country as they possibly can. Barbara L. Maness the power of his love, which is our only give ourselves to him wholly and It is sad that our hierarchy has fallen into Vevay true source of healing and of hope. completely so that he can restore us to Gratitude has an important part to our true selves. play in Christian worship. When we This is the time of year when we acknowledge all of the ways that we remember our blessings and give Letters Policy have been blessed by God, and give thanks to God for all his gifts. As we Letters from readers are published in letters from readers as necessary based on him thanks, we forget about the hurts begin December and move into The Criterion as part of the newspaper’s we suffer and the wrongs that have Advent, may it also be a time of space limitations, pastoral sensitivity and commitment to “the responsible exchange of content (including spelling and grammar). In been done to us. healing and wholeness—for each of us, freely-held and expressed opinion among order to encourage opinions from a variety We focus not on our weakness, but for our nation and for the Church. the People of God” (Communio et of readers, frequent writers will ordinarily be on God’s strength—not on our May our observance of Thanks- Progressio, 116). limited to one letter every three months. loneliness, but on the union with God giving this year extend beyond one day Letters from readers are welcome and Concise letters (usually less than 300 words) and with one another that have been and become a way of life, an every effort will be made to include letters are more likely to be printed. made possible in and through Christ. expression of stewardship, for all from as many people and representing as Letters must be signed, but, for serious The Greek word for “thanksgiving” God’s people. many viewpoints as possible. Letters should reasons, names may be withheld. has the same root as Eucharist. And we May our thankfulness lead us to the be informed, relevant, well-expressed and Send letters to: “Letters to the Editor,” Christians are convinced there is no Eucharist, and may our worship bring temperate in tone. They must reflect a basic The Criterion, P.O. Box 1717, Indianap olis, greater way to give thanks to God than us wholeness and the healing of love. sense of courtesy and respect. IN 46206-1717. Readers with access to to share in the body and blood of his The editors reserve the right to select the e-mail may send letters to son in the holy sacrifice of the Mass. —Daniel Conway letters that will be published and to edit [email protected]. The Criterion Friday, December 5, 2008 Page 5

ARCHBISHOP/ARZOBISPO DANIEL M. BUECHLEIN, O.S.B. SEEKING THE FACE OF THE LORD BUSCANDO LA CARA DEL SEÑOR Immigrants make a positive contribution to our society ur Lady of the Immaculate recent presidential election this topic was labor needs. He also noted that, in the big burden for the American economy and the Conception is the patroness of the largely overshadowed by other issues, picture, immigrants fill the gap between jobs labor force are not doing their homework or OUnited States. We celebrate her feast especially the economic turmoil. filled and native-born Americans entering the else they are misrepresenting the facts. as a solemnity on the 8th of December. In fact, some of the myths surrounding the work force. Bishop Higi concluded his study: “The Our Lady of Guadalupe is the patroness current controversy of immigration have an There is a second myth: Immigrants don’t bottom line is that immigrants contribute of America: North, Central and South impact on the economy. Some prevalent pay taxes. In fact, both documented and more in taxes and Social Security payments America. The latter declaration was decreed myths would have it that this impact is non-documented immigrants pay taxes. A than they consume in public resources. The by the late Pope John Paul II on the occasion negative. range of studies find that immigrants pay fact is that immigrants contribute to the of the Synod on America. Last May, Bishop William L. Higi of the between $90 billion and $140 billion a year economy by taking jobs and performing It was an appropriate declaration Diocese of Lafayette did a great deal of in federal, state and local taxes. services vital to our way of life. And they considering that Our Lady’s appearance to homework concerning some of the myths The Social Security Administration’s pay taxes. While there may be no easy way St. Juan Diego in Tepeyac, Mexico, is a that touch on the economy of our country “suspense file” (taxes that cannot be to fix our broken immigration system, efforts unique appearance in America. and state. With his indulgence, I am matched in worker’s name and to do so should not be based on myths.” In that same synod, Pope John Paul II borrowing from his enlightening study which Social Security number) now totals Immigrants make a positive contribution spoke of our continent as being one was published on May 25 in his diocesan approximately $420 billion from the earnings to our society just like our ancestors. The America. Catholic weekly, The Catholic Moment. of immigrants who cannot claim benefits. Mexican immigrants also witness an The feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe The first myth that the bishop addressed Bishop Higi pointed out that the admirable devotion to the Mother of God has been entered in the liturgical calendar was this: Immigrants take jobs and opportu- majority of undocumented immigrants pay and our Blessed Mother. † of the United States on Dec. 12. Both nities away from Americans. income taxes using an Individual Taxpayer celebrations honor the same Mother of God The United States Department of Labor Identification Number (ITIN), which the IRS and Mother of the Church, and add an projects that by 2010 the United States will has issued to more than 8 million people Do you have an intention for appropriate recognition of Mary in the joyful have created 22 million new jobs. If a correct without regard to immigration status. Archbishop Buechlein’s prayer list? and hope-filled season of Advent. projection, 9 million more jobs will be In addition to state income taxes, all You may mail it to him at: When we observe the feast of Our Lady created than the number of native-born immigrants pay the same sales tax as the rest of Guadalupe, we join our Catholic sisters workers entering the job market. As the of us. Whether they own homes or not, Archbishop Buechlein’s and brothers of Mexico for whom this feast baby boomers enter retirement age and leave property taxes are passed on to them through Prayer List is enormously important. the job market, after 2010 that gap will rent. Archdiocese of Indianapolis The Mother of God appeared to a simple increase. The National Research Council estimates 1400 N. Meridian St. peasant with whom poor people everywhere Bishop Higi rightly observed that that the economic benefit of immigration P.O. Box 1410 can identify. I can’t help but think of the immigration laws do not reflect the runs as high as $10 billion annually. People Indianapolis, IN 46202-1410 thousands of Mexican immigrants who demographic and economic realities. He who want to claim that immigrants are a find hope and solace in their devotion to raised the question: Would native-born Our Lady of Guadalupe. Americans take the low-paying jobs currently Archbishop Buechlein’s intention for vocations for December I also believe that the Blessed Mother being filled by immigrants, documented and must look down with perplexity at the undocumented? Catholic Grade Schools: that they may teach our children the Catholic faith and assist complexity and controversy surrounding the He noted that, in a birth control culture, them in hearing and answering God’s call to service in the Church, especially as priests status of immigrants in our country. we are not the only developed country that or religious. It was disappointing that during the has come to rely on immigrants to fill its Los inmigrantes realizan un aporte positivo a nuestra sociedad uestra Señora de la Inmaculada fue relegado a segundo plano frente a otros entre los trabajos cubiertos y los que los inmigrantes son una carga para la Concepción es la patrona de Estados problemas, especialmente la crisis económica. estadounidenses nacidos en el país que economía y la fuerza laboral estadounidense NUnidos. Celebramos su festividad De hecho, muchos de los mitos que rodean ingresan a la fuerza laboral. no han investigado lo suficiente o bien están como una solemnidad el 8 de diciembre. la controversia actual de la inmigración Existe un segundo mito: Los inmigrantes tergiversando los hechos. Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe es la ejercen un impacto sobre la economía. no pagan impuestos. De hecho, tanto los El Obispo Higi concluye así su estudio: patrona de América: Norteamérica, Algunos de los mitos más predominantes inmigrantes con papeles como los “En resumen, los inmigrantes aportan más en Centroamérica y Suramérica. Esta última exponen que dicho impacto es negativo. indocumentados, pagan impuestos. Una impuestos y pagos de Seguro Social de lo afirmación fue decretada por el difunto El pasado mes de mayo el Obispo William variedad de estudios demuestra que los que consumen en recursos públicos. El Papa Juan Pablo II en ocasión del Sínodo en L. Higi de la Diócesis de Lafayette llevó a inmigrantes pagan entre $90 mil millones y hecho es que los inmigrantes contribuyen a América. cabo un gran estudio sobre algunos de los $140 millones anuales en impuestos la economía tomando los trabajos y Resultó una declaración apropiada, mitos que atañen a la economía de nuestro federales, estatales y locales. realizando servicios vitales para nuestro tomando en cuenta que la aparición de país y del estado. Con su venia, he tomado El “archivo de trámite” (impuestos que no estilo de vida. Y pagan impuestos. Aunque Nuestra Señora al San Juan Diego en prestado pasajes de su estudio esclarecedor compaginan con el nombre y el número de quizás no exista una forma sencilla para Tepeyac, México, es una aparición única en que fue publicado el 25 de mayo en su Seguro Social del trabajador), de la remendar nuestro sistema migratorio América. semanario diocesano, The Catholic Moment. Administración del Seguro Social asciende averiado, los esfuerzos para hacerlo no deben En ese mismo sínodo el Papa Juan Pablo El primer mito que abordó el obispo fue el ahora a aproximadamente $420 mil millones basarse en mitos.” II habló sobre nuestro continente como una siguiente: Los inmigrantes les quitan los en ingresos de inmigrantes que no pueden Los inmigrantes realizan un aporte América unificada. trabajos y las oportunidades a los reclamar beneficios. positivo a nuestra sociedad, al igual que La festividad de Nuestra Señora de estadounidenses. El Obispo Higi señaló que la mayoría de nuestros ancestros. Los inmigrantes Guadalupe ha sido incorporada al calendario El Departamento de Trabajo de Estados los inmigrantes indocumentados pagan mexicanos también son testimonio de una litúrgico de Estados Unidos el 12 de Unidos proyecta que para el 2010 Estados impuestos utilizando un Número de admirable devoción a la Madre de Dios y a diciembre. Ambas celebraciones honran a la Unidos habrá creado 22 millones de trabajos Identificación Personal del Contribuyente nuestra Santa Madre. † misma Madre de Dios y Madre de la Iglesia nuevos. Si esta proyección es acertada, se (ITIN, por sus siglas en inglés), el cual ha y añaden un reconocimiento adecuado de crearán 9 millones de trabajos más que la cifra sido emitido por el IRS a más de 8 millones ¿Tiene una intención que desee María durante la temporada llena de júbilo y de trabajadores nacidos en el país que de personas sin importar su situación incluir en la lista de oración del esperanza del Adviento. ingresarán al mercado laboral. A medida que migratoria. Arzobispo Buechlein? Puede enviar Al observar la festividad de Nuestra los nacidos tras la Segunda Guerra Mundial, Además de los impuestos estatales sobre su correspondencia a: Señora de Guadalupe nos unimos a nuestros los baby boomers, salen del mercado laboral la renta, todos los inmigrantes pagan los hermanos y hermanas católicos de México, después de 2010, dicha brecha se hará aún mismos impuestos sobre las ventas que el Lista de oración del Arzobispo para quienes esta celebración posee una mayor. resto de nosotros. Independientemente de si Buechlein importancia capital. El Obispo Higi señaló acertadamente que son propietarios de viviendas o no, los Arquidiócesis de Indianápolis La Madre de Dios parecía ser una simple las leyes migratorias no reflejan las realidades impuestos a la propiedad se reparten a estos 1400 N. Meridian St. campesina con la cual los pobres de todas demográficas y económicas. Formuló esta inmigrantes mediante el alquiler. P.O. Box 1410 partes pueden sentirse identificados. No pregunta: ¿Acaso los nacidos en Estados El Consejo Nacional de Investigación Indianapolis, IN 46202-1410 puedo menos que pensar en los miles de Unidos tomarían los trabajos mal calcula que los beneficios económicos inmigrantes mexicanos que encuentran remunerados que poseen actualmente los derivados de la inmigración ascienden a $10 Traducido por: Daniela Guanipa, esperanza y consuelo en su devoción a inmigrantes, tanto indocumentados como mil millones anuales. Las personas que dicen Language Training Center, Indianapolis. Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe. aquellos con papeles? Asimismo, considero que la Santa Madre Expresó que en una cultura de control de la La intención del Arzobispo Buechlein para vocaciones en diciembre debe mirar perpleja la complejidad y la natalidad, no somos el único país desarrollado controversia que existe en torno a la situación que depende de los inmigrantes para cubrir Escuelas primarias católicas: que ellos puedan enseñar la fe católica a nuestros niños de los inmigrantes en nuestro país. sus necesidades de mano de obra. Asimismo, y puedan ayudarles a oír y contestar la llamada de Dios para servir en la Iglesia, sobre Resulta decepcionante que durante las señaló que tomando en cuenta todos los todo como sacerdotes o religiosos. recientes elecciones presidenciales este tema elementos, los inmigrantes cierran la brecha Page 6 The Criterion Friday, December 5, 2008 Events Calendar December 5 or [email protected]. sale after Masses, Sat. 5 p.m., MKVS, Divine Mercy and Information: 317-635-2021. 1 p.m., age 50 and over. Our Lady of the Most Sun. 8 a.m. and 10 a.m. Glorious Cross Center, Rexville, Information: 317-784-1102. Holy Rosary Church, December 6 Information: 317-638-5551. located on 925 South, .8 mile Benedict Inn Retreat and St. Lawrence Parish, 520 Stevens St., Indianapolis. east of 421 South and 12 miles Conference Center, December 14 Lumen Dei meeting, Mass, Father Conen Hall, 6944 E. December 7 south of Versailles. Mass, 1402 Southern Ave., St. Maurice Parish, 1963 N. St. Rita Church, 6:30 a.m., Mass, breakfast and 46th St., Indianapolis. One-day 10 a.m., on third Sunday holy Beech Grove. Lecture, St. John St., Greensburg. 1733 Dr. Andrew J. Brown Ave., program at Priori Hall, retreat, “Touch My Heart,” hour and pitch-in, groups of “Leadership in the Eyes of St. Anne, St. John and Indianapolis. African Catholic Anchorite Sister Mary Ann New Evangelization Sisters of 10 pray the new Marian Way, St. Benedict,” Benedictine St. Maurice parishes, live Mother of Perpetual Help, Ministry, fifth anniversary Schumann, presenter, $15 per 1 p.m., Father Elmer Burwinkel, Sister Carol Falkner, presenter, Nativity, 4:30-6:30 p.m. presenters, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., lunch celebration, Mass, 3 p.m., person. Information: celebrant. Information: 7-8:30 p.m., no charge. Information: 812-663-4754 or provided, free-will offering. reception following Mass. 317-919-5316 or e-mail 812-689-3551. Information: 317-402-1636 or [email protected]. [email protected]. Information: 317-845-9070. Reservations: 317-269-1276. [email protected]. December 9 St. Andrew the Apostle Parish, Saint Meinrad Archabbey and Knights of Columbus, Mater St. Gabriel the Archangel St. Paul Hermitage, 501 N. Vito’s, 20 N. Pennsylvania St., 4050 E. 38th St., Indianapolis. School of Theology, Archabbey Dei Council #437, 1305 N. Church, 6000 W. 34th St., 17th Ave., Beech Grove. Indianapolis. Theology on Tap, Contemporary Advent lessons Church, 200 Hill Drive, Delaware St., Indianapolis. Indianapolis. Day of prayer Ave Maria Guild, Christmas Series on “The Theology of the and carols celebration, Christmas dinner and dance, and reflection, “Advent: A party, noon. Information: Body,” 7 p.m. Information: St. Meinrad. Selections from “Emmanuel, God With Us,” 7 p.m., $20 per person. Season of Waiting,” Franciscan 317-885-5098. http://indytheologyontap.com or Handel’s “Messiah,” southern 4 p.m. Information: Information: 317-631-4373. Sister Barbara Leonhard, 317-413-6097. Indiana chapter of American presenter, bring brown bag 317-546-1571. Northside Knights of Columbus Guild of Organists presents Our Lady of Mount Carmel lunch, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Hall, 2100 E. 71st St., Indian- December 11 New Albany High School Sacred Heart of Jesus Church, Parish, 14598 Oakridge Road, Information: 317-291-7014. apolis. Catholic Business Our Lady of Fatima Retreat a cappella choir, area singers, 2 1530 Union St., Indianapolis. Carmel, Ind. (Diocese of Exchange and Catholic House, 5353 E. 56th St., Indian- p.m., no charge. Information: The Master’s Chorale, Lafayette). Natural Family St. Francis Hospital, 8111 S. Professional Business Club, apolis. Third annual dinner 800-682-0988 or Planning (NFP) class, Emerson Ave., Indianapolis. Christmas concert, 3:30 p.m., annual Christmas program, and Advent concert with Tony [email protected]. 7-9:30 p.m. Information: “Breakfast with Santa,” free-will offering. Information: Mass, 5:30 p.m., Msgr. Joseph Avellana, 6:30 p.m., dinner, 317-848-4486. 8-10 a.m., $7 adults, $3 children 317-251-1692. F. Schaedel, celebrant. 7:30 p.m. concert, $35 per December 16 age 2 and older, story time with Information: person. Information: St. Malachy Church, 9833 E. December 5- St. Pius X Parish, Santa, 2-4 p.m., $3 for children. [email protected]. 317-545-7681 or County Road 750 North, January 10 Reservations: 317-782-4422. 7200 Sarto Drive, Indianapolis. [email protected]. Saint Meinrad Archabbey and Support Group for Separated December 10 Brownsburg. Church School of Theology, Archabbey December 6-7 and Divorced Catholics, St. John the Evangelist Church, December 13 dedication, Mass, Archbishop Library, 200 Hill Drive, Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish, annual “Pitch In-Pitch Out” 126 W. Georgia St., Indian- St. Roch Parish, Family Center, Daniel M. Buechlein, celebrant, St. Meinrad. Crèches display, 1530 Union St., Indianapolis. Christmas party, 4:30 p.m. apolis. Organ recital, Chris 3603 S. Meridian St., Indian- 6 p.m. Information: free. Information: 800-682-0988 Right to Life Committee, bake Information: 317-288-7780. Schroeder, organist, 11:30 a.m. apolis. Single Seniors, meeting, 317-852-3195. †

Retreats and Programs New Evangelization Sisters of Mother of Carl Hawver, presenter, 7-8:30 p.m. Eugene Hensell, presenter. Information: Perpetual Help, presenters, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Information: 812-933-6437. 800-581-6905 or [email protected]. free-will offering. Information: 317-845-9070. December 6 December 10 January 17 St. Lawrence Parish, Father Conen Hall, December 8 Benedict Inn Retreat and Conference Center, Oldenburg Franciscan Center, Oldenburg. 6944 E. 46th St., Indianapolis. One-day Oldenburg Franciscan Center, Oldenburg. 1402 Southern Ave., Beech Grove. “Why Be Catholic?,” Jeanne Hunt and retreat, “Touch Heart,” “Men’s Night,” Franciscan Father “Leadership in the Eyes of St. Benedict,” Franciscan Sister Kathleen Mulso, presenters, Benedictine Sister Carol Falkner, presenter, 9-11:30 a.m. Information: 812-933-6437. 7-8:30 p.m. Information: 317-788-7581. December 13 Monastery Immaculate Conception, Oldenburg Franciscan Center, Oldenburg. Day Kordes Center, 841 E. 14th St., Ferdinand, Submitted photo of Reflection, “Advent Joy and Anticipation Ind. (Evansville Diocese). “Saturday as a Way of Life,” Franciscan Sister Barbara Morning at the Dome–Grieving Our Leonhard, presenter, 9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m., Losses,” Benedictine Sister Maria Tasto, $40 per person. Information: 812-933-6437. presenter, 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., $35 includes continental breakfast and lunch. Information: December 14 812-367-1411 or [email protected]. Oldenburg Franciscan Center, Oldenburg. “Evensong Scripture,” 4-5 p.m. Information: January 19 812-933-6437. Our Lady of Fatima Retreat House, 5353 E. 56th St., Indianapolis. “Day of Silence,” December 18 8 a.m.-4 p.m., $25 per person includes Our Lady of Fatima Retreat House, 5353 E. continental breakfast and lunch. Information: 56th St., Indianapolis. “Day of Silence,” 317-545-7681 or [email protected]. 8 a.m.-4 p.m., $25 per person includes continental breakfast and lunch. Information: January 24 317-545-7681 or [email protected]. Oldenburg Franciscan Center, Oldenburg. “A Church to Believe In,” Father Norman December 19-21 Langenbrunner and Jeanne Hunt, presenters, Saint Meinrad Archabbey, 100 Hill Drive, 9-11:30 a.m., free-will offering. Information: St. Meinrad. “A Monastic Christmas,” 812-933-6437. Benedictine Brother Christian Raab, presenter. February 13-15 Parish celebration Information: 800-581-6905 or Saint Meinrad Archabbey, 100 Hill Drive, [email protected]. Father George Plaster, pastor of St. Mark the Evangelist Parish in Indianapolis, accepts the St. Meinrad. Couples retreat, congratulations of members of the parish’s staff after he was formally installed as their pastor January 9-11 “Speaking Love: A Couples Retreat,” during a Nov. 23 Mass at St. Mark the Evangelist Church. The Mass and a banquet also celebrated Saint Meinrad Archabbey, 100 Hill Drive, Benedictine Father Noël Mueller, presenter. the 60th anniversary of the founding of the Indianapolis South Deanery faith community. St. Meinrad. “The Book of Genesis: Stories Information: 800-581-6905 or of Creation and Faith,” Benedictine Father [email protected]. †

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Member Festival Seating: $25 Adult, $10 Student. Group discounts available. | Call 317.940.9607 | www.icomusic.org Central Indiana The Criterion Friday, December 5, 2008 Page 7 Parishes announce Masses, fiestas for feast days of St. Juan Diego and Our Lady of Guadalupe

Masses and celebrations 7:30 p.m. (Español), Danza/Obra, bilingual Mass, 8:15 a.m.; Church, 415 E. Eighth St., Misa (Español), midnight. for the feast days of St. Juan • Dec. 12—Holy Spirit 7 p.m.; Mariachi, 9:30 p.m. Misa (Español), 6 p.m.; New Albany. Las Mañanitas, • Dec. 12—Holy Trinity Diego and Our Lady of Church, 7243 E. 10th St., • Dec. 12— procesión, 11 p.m. Church, 100 Keely St., Guadalupe in December are Indianapolis. Rosario, Our Lady of the 7 p.m.; mariachi, • Dec. 11—St. Michael Edinburgh. Las Mañanitas, scheduled at various parishes 6:30 p.m.; Misa (Español), Greenwood 8:30 p.m.; Church, 101 St. Michael 4 a.m.; Misa (Español), in the archdiocese. 7 p.m. Church, 335 S. representación, Drive, Charlestown. Rosario, 6:30 p.m. Liturgies and other events Meridian St., 9:30 p.m.; 8 p.m.; serenade, 10:30 p.m.; • Dec. 12—St. Ambrose reported to The Criterion Indianapolis North Greenwood. convivio, Las Mañanitas, ends after Church, 325 S. Chestnut St., include the following Deanery Misa (Español), 10:30 p.m. 12:30 a.m. Seymour. Las Mañanitas, activities listed by deanery • Dec. 12—St. Lawrence 4 p.m; procession • Dec. 12— • Dec. 12—St. Mary 5:30 a.m.; Mass with school and date: Church, 6944 E. 46th St., and 13th annual St. Gabriel the Church, 415 E. Eighth St., children, 2 p.m.; Misa Indianapolis. Misa bilingual, solemn Archangel New Albany. Misa (Español), 7 p.m.; fiesta after Batesville Deanery (Español), 7 p.m. Mass, 6:30 p.m., Church, 6000 W. (Español), 7 p.m., fiesta, Mass. • Dec. 12—St. Louis dinner after Our Lady of Guadalupe 34th St., 8:15 p.m. • Dec. 12—Prince of Church, 13 St. Louis Place, Indianapolis South Mass. Indianapolis. • Dec. 12— Peace Church, 413 E. Batesville. Misa (Español), Deanery Las Mañanitas, 4:30 a.m; St. Michael Church, Second St., Madison. 6 p.m. • Dec. 11—St. Patrick Indianapolis West Deanery rosario, 5:30 a.m; Misa 101 St. Michael Drive, Bilingual Mass, 8:15 a.m. at • Dec. 12—St. Joseph Church, 950 Prospect St., • Dec. 11—St. Anthony (Español), 7 p.m.; fiesta after Charlestown. Bilingual Father Michael Shawe Church, 125 E. Broadway St., Indianapolis. Rosario, Church, 379 N. Warman Mass. Mass, 7 p.m.; fiesta after Memorial Jr./Sr. High Shelbyville. Misa (Español), 8:30 p.m.; Danza Asteca, Ave., Indianapolis. Misa • Dec. 12—St. Monica Mass. School, 201 W. State St., 8 p.m. 9:30 p.m.; Misa (Español), (Español), 6 p.m.; rosario, Church, 6131 N. Michigan • Dec. 12—St. Joseph Madison; Misa (Español), 11 p.m.; Las Mañanitas, 7 p.m.; Danza de Niños, Road, Indianapolis. Music, Church, 312 E. High St., 7 p.m. at St. Patrick Chapel, Bloomington Deanery midnight. 7:30 p.m.; mariachi, 9 p.m.; 6 p.m; rosario, 6:30 p.m.; Corydon. Misa (Español), West State Street, Madison. • Dec. 11—St. Paul • Dec. 12—St. Patrick Danza de Adultos, 10 p.m.; Misa (Español), 7 p.m.; 7 p.m. Catholic Center, 1413 E. Church, 950 Prospect St., vigilia, 11:30 p.m. apparitions, representations, Terre Haute Deanery 17th St., Bloomington. Indianapolis. Las Mañanitas, • Dec. 12—St. Anthony 8 p.m.; dinner, 8:30 p.m. Seymour Deanery • Dec. 12—St. Margaret Serenade, 11 p.m. 6 a.m.; Narración, 6:30 a.m.; Church, 379 N. Warman • Dec. 12— Mary Church, 2405 S. • Dec. 12—St. Paul procesión/Danza, noon; Ave., Indianapolis. New Albany Deanery St. Bartholomew Church, Seventh St., Terre Haute. Catholic Center, 1413 E. Mariachi, 6 p.m.; Misa Las Mañanitas, 7:15 a.m.; • Dec. 11—St. Mary 1306 27th St., Columbus. Misa (Espanol), 7:30 p.m. † 17th St., Bloomington. Misa (Español), 12:01 a.m.; fiesta, 1 a.m.

Connersville Deanery • Dec. 14—St. Andrew Church, 235 S. 5th St., “My heart surgery at St. Francis was Richmond. Bilingual Mass, 9:30 a.m. the difference between life and death.” Indianapolis East Deanery At 33 years old, Chris knew he would eventually need surgery to replace • Dec. 11— St. Mary Church, 317 N. a calcified heart valve. However, he had no idea how urgent it was until New Jersey St., Indianapolis. his wife encouraged him to attend an Ask the Doc program and to have Procession from Monument a cardiac screening, sponsored by the St. Francis Heart Center. “Your Circle to the church, 9 p.m.; symptoms begin so gradually, you think what you are feeling is normal,” serenade, 11 p.m.; Misa he said. With only a small incision, Chris was able to make a quick (Español), midnight. • Dec. 12— recovery. Thanks to the work of the heart team at St. Francis, Chris can St. Mary Church, 317 N. rest assured he will be there to watch his three small children grow up. New Jersey St., Indian- “I told them Daddy’s heart had a bad boom-boom before, and has a apolis. Bilingual Mass, good boom-boom now.” noon; bilingual Mass, 7 p.m. St. Francis is the leader in total heart care for South Central Indiana with: • Dec. 12—St. Philip Neri Church, 550 N. Rural • Nationally renowned heart surgeons and cardiologists that treat St., Indianapolis. Mass, high-risk, complex cases 10 a.m.; Misa (Español), • The most advanced and innovative repair techniques that set new standards for heart valve treatment Catholics are • The Midwest Heart Valve Center—the only dedicated heart valve center in Indiana invited to celebrate Are you at risk? Get your FREE Healthy Heart Kit and fi nd out. Simbang Gabi Call 1-877-888-1777 or visit HeartAttackCare.net today. Simbang Gabi Masses, a Filipino Advent tradition, are scheduled in four deaneries throughout the archdiocese during December. The liturgies are sponsored by the archdiocesan Multicultural Ministry Commission and are open to the public. The Masses will be celebrated at the following churches: • Dec. 18—7 p.m. at St. Paul Catholic Center, 1413 E. 17th St., Bloomington. • Dec. 19—7 p.m. at St. Mary Church, 720 N. “A” St., Richmond. Chris, heart valve replacement patient • Dec. 20—4 p.m. at St. Patrick Church, Chris participated in the fi rst-of-its-kind innovative research study, 1807 Poplar St., which may allow more patients to avoid long-term use of blood thinners. Terre Haute. • Dec. 22—7 p.m. at St. Barnabas Church, 8300 Rahke Road, Indianapolis. † Page 8 The Criterion Friday, December 5, 2008

To prepare for the distribution of food, about OUTREACH 500 volunteers worked together on Nov. 23 to sort the continued from page 1 food donations and put them in grocery bags. Thirty-six members of the Hammans family were food—plus cookies and candy canes—to needy families at among the volunteers from parishes and Catholic John Shaughnessy Photo by the parish church. All in the hope of making their Christmas schools across Indianapolis who helped that Sunday. more joyous. “For them, it’s very much a family tradition,” says That Christmas scene promises to be similar to the one at Father Larry Voelker, the pastor of Holy Cross Parish. the parish three days before Thanksgiving this year. On “It gives them a sense of pride to be involved in an Nov. 24, several hundred people lined up outside the parish effort that was started by their father and grandfather hall on a gray, damp, chilly day to take home two grocery many years ago.” bags filled with two turkey rolls, apples, potatoes, green Valerie Hammans has learned the importance of that beans, corn, pies and bread. There was enough food to feed family connection. She refers to the Thanksgiving- 585 families. Christmas effort at Holy Cross as “one of the most Some older people in line relied on walkers and canes faith-inspiring experiences” she has had. while young mothers used blankets to cover the babies they “It’s the little things that God does that make some held in their arms and the small children who rested in of the biggest impacts,” says Valerie, a 23-year-old strollers. granddaughter of Francis Hammans.

In this ‘I’m always thinking of my dad’ 1980 photo, One of her parents’ eight children, Tobin is moved Submitted photo Submitted the late by the difference that the special food baskets make to Francis people. Hammans “They’re just all in need,” says Tobin, who is 52. prepares “When they come, you see the tired looks on their boxes of faces. Then you see the excitement. Some people cry. food for the Others say, ‘God bless you. God bless you.’ A lady said needy at to me one time, ‘Oh my gosh, there is fresh milk in my Christmas. bag!’ His family “We take so much for granted. I’m blessed with my has kept family, my 30-year marriage, my children, my alive his grandchildren, my job. When the bags are being handed Mike Frazee fills a pew with bags of food at Holy Cross Church in legacy of out in church, I feel blessed to be there. The people Indianapolis. The 68-year-old, lifelong member of Holy Cross Parish is helping the look around. You can tell people are so relieved to have the coordinator of the parish’s special food basket committee that helps poor—a something to provide for their family. They know in to feed the needy at Thanksgiving and Christmas each year. commitment that moment their life is being touched. They’re he made to touching us, too.” that has been home to his family since 1946. For him, the God when he That sentiment is echoed by Mike Frazee, a people who rely on the Holy Cross baskets at Thanksgiving recovered 68-year-old, lifelong member of Holy Cross Parish. Frazee and Christmas were part of his understanding of family, too. from coordinates the special food basket committee on which It’s that attitude from her father that leads Tobin to make tuberculosis. Tobin also serves. sure that Frazee and Mark Scott, another longtime “Some of these people live in the streets. Some have coordinator of the effort, get credit for all the hard work four or five kids and no father,” Frazee says. “There’s a lot of they’ve done through the years. satisfaction in giving to the people. We also know how lucky Still, like her siblings, her thoughts always turn to her we are to be able to help them.” parents when she’s in the church preparing the baskets and Frazee is also grateful for having been a friend of giving them to people. Francis Hammans. She mentions how her mother still provides financial “I ran with Francis,” he says. “His kids and my kids ran support for the food basket effort. together, too. Francis was a super guy. You could put him on She recalls her father’s promise to God to serve others. a pedestal. He enjoyed helping people so much.” “I think my dad would be extremely proud and honored While Hammans died 10 years ago, his legacy lives on in that we’re fulfilling the rest of his bargain to serve others,” the work of his family, friends and strangers. The people she says. who knew him best insist that he wouldn’t want any special “I’m always thinking of my dad when I’m doing this. It recognition for starting this effort at Holy Cross. For him, the always gives me a sense that he’s right there, that he’s at my parish was an extension of his family, the spiritual setting shoulder.” †

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11200200 WWestest WWashingtonashington SStreettreet iindianapoliszoo.comndianapoliszoo.com • ((317)317) 630-200630-20011 Zoo opens at 12 noon. Activities beginbegin at 5pm5pm.. The Criterion Friday, December 5, 2008 Page 9 FOCA’s effects seen as dire, but chance of it passing still uncertain

WASHINGTON (CNS)—About the bill’s chief sponsor, Sen. Barbara Boxer of Newly elected only thing everyone with a stake in it is California, all declined to discuss the members of the likely to agree on about the prospects of any specific bill U.S. House of Freedom of Choice Act is in a legislative session that Representatives pose that the legislation has doesn’t start until January. for a group photo on CNS photo/Jim Young, Reuters Young, photo/Jim CNS languished in Congress for All pending bills expire at the steps of the 20 years, only once rising— the end of each two-year Capitol in Washington just barely—above the fate of congressional session so on Nov. 17. Opponents hundreds of bills that are FOCA would have to be of the Freedom of introduced each session and reintroduced. Choice Act who never heard from again. Erica Chabot, press believe the measure What is harder to nail secretary to the Senate could come before down is whether the bill, Judiciary Committee, said she Congress under the known as FOCA, is going can’t recall Leahy “ever new administration anywhere under the mentioning this piece of say it has frightening 111th Congress that begins in January. legislation.” That doesn’t necessarily mean implications, but Although there was no effort in the it couldn’t suddenly move up on the whether the 110th Congress to move the bill along, committee’s priority list, she said. 111th Congress will pro-life organizations have since the However, “if there were overwhelming pass it remains summer been sounding the alarm about support for a bill, chances are I would have unclear. what would happen to current restrictions heard something about it,” Chabot told on abortion if a Democrat was elected Catholic News Service. voting record. “saying Catholic health care institutions are president. Staffers for those Democratic leaders and “Reid would be no impediment at all,” going to close” should FOCA become law, They also voice concerns for possible staffers for other members of Congress— he said. “His history has been that he may she told CNS. administrative actions under Democratic Democrats and Republicans—all vote against something in the end after She said CHA has always opposed President-elect Barack Obama, such as emphasized that the priorities of the doing everything he can to have the FOCA and will reversing the ban on federal funding of 111th Congress will be the economy and pro-abortion side win,” for instance by continue to do so. embryonic stem-cell research; and the Iraq War. Speaking on background, putting a bill on the floor for a vote. But “even if this repealing the Hyde amendment, which bars several said passing FOCA is not a priority Johnson acknowledged that it is unclear bad legislation were federal funding of abortions, and the for members of Congress. that either house of Congress has the votes to pass, we would Mexico City policy, which prohibits Kristin Day, executive director of to pass FOCA. He said there are more not be forced to foreign aid money from going to family Democrats for Life, called FOCA a radical supporters of legal abortion in Congress participate [in planning programs that promote and offer bill, but while it is worthwhile to highlight than there were in 1993, though that providing abortion. its problems, “I don’t think it’s likely to doesn’t necessarily translate to votes for the abortions] and we But stopping FOCA has become the pass anytime soon.” bill. will fight for that,” rallying cry for the American Life League, Day said it is more likely that adminis- “Anybody who’s even halfway pro-life she said. the National Right to Life Committee and trative orders will reverse the Mexico City isn’t going to support FOCA,” said Johnson. Catholic health Sr. Carol Keehan Priests for Life, among other pro-life policy or expand federal funding of NARAL Pro-Choice America, which care institutions groups. It was the central focus of a embryonic stem-cell research. She wonders supports FOCA and opposes any will not dismantle their systems or statement about the government transition why there isn’t more effort being put into restrictions on abortion, counts both the compromise their principles, she said. “We issued on Nov. 12 on behalf of the highlighting opposition to such changes. House and Senate next term as having have many examples in this country of how U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops by its At a Democrats for Life event during pro-life majorities. It projects 204 House to respond to unjust laws and we have president, Cardinal Francis E. George of the Democratic National Convention, members who generally oppose NARAL’s learned from them. We will protect Chicago, during the bishops’ general Sen. Bob Casey, D-Pa., called FOCA agenda, and 185 who support it. It says Catholic health care in this country without fall meeting. “dead on arrival,” Day said. She said another 46 members have a “mixed” compromising our position on abortion.” A legal analysis of the most recent pro-life Democrats, including Casey and record. NARAL counts 42 opponents of its First, however, Sister Carol said, “we version of FOCA by the general counsel’s Reps. Lincoln Davis of Tennessee and issues in the Senate and 40 supporters, with must focus on protecting mothers and their staff of the USCCB warned that it would Heath Shuler of North Carolina, who 18 of “mixed” records. unborn children.” wipe out many existing state laws and backed Obama during the campaign, Johnson credits a nationwide postcard “The first thing we are called to do is impede states’ ability to regulate abortion. expect their voices to matter when it campaign opposing the bill in 1993 with redouble our efforts to be sure pregnant The analysis cited as examples laws that comes to the legislative priorities of the helping keep it from reaching a vote. But women do not see abortion as their only could be overturned if FOCA became law, White House. the makeup of Congress has changed option,” she said in a statement released on such as parental notification requirements; Douglas Johnson, legislative director for significantly since then, he noted. Nov. 24. Easily accessible and high quality abortion clinic regulations; bars to the National Right to Life Committee, told “Many of the current members of obstetrical care, assistance with food government funding of abortion; CNS that FOCA’s inertia so far doesn’t Congress weren’t members in 1993,” he stamps, housing, education and child care prohibitions on procedures such as partial- diminish the danger of it progressing now. said. “Lots of lawmakers have never paid can help women feel they have options birth abortion; and laws protecting the right FOCA moved forward only in 1993 when any attention to FOCA.” He said that raises other than abortion, she said. of medical personnel and institutions to Democrats controlled the House, Senate the risk of “the other side” defining FOCA She said the CHA has been in touch with decline to participate in abortions. and the White House for the first time in as more benign than how abortion Obama’s transition team, as they were with In statements by pro-life leaders, much 12 years. Introduced in the first days of the opponents interpret it. FOCA opponents Sen. John McCain’s aides, when they were of the concern about FOCA refers to 103rd Congress, the House and Senate plan a new postcard campaign beginning in planning a possible transition. President-elect Barack Obama’s July 2007 Judiciary committees quickly moved it on January. “We’ve found [Obama’s staff] more than answer to a question during an address to a for floor scheduling within weeks. Sister Carol Keehan, a Daughter of willing to discuss our perspective,” she Planned Parenthood group that signing the But it never came up for debate or a vote Charity who is president and CEO of the said. “They recognize we play a fairly bill would be “the first thing I’d do as in the House or Senate. Catholic Health Association, has concerns significant role in health care and are a president.” Johnson is skeptical that pro-life about people outside Catholic health care large part of the social safety net.” † But that presupposes FOCA gets out of congressional Democrats are numerous Congress. enough or powerful enough to stop a Spokesmen for House Speaker serious push to move FOCA forward if Our Lady of Fatima Retreat House Nancy Pelosi of California, Senate the party’s leaders want it to advance. He Majority Leader Harry Reid of Nevada, is especially skeptical of whether the Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Senate majority leader would prove any Meet me at 'The Shack' Sen. Patrick Leahy of Vermont, and the obstacle to FOCA, despite Reid’s pro-life A day of reflection with Iraqi archbishop: U.S. pact is step Fr. Jim Farrell forward, but instability remains January 12, 2009 8:30 am-2:30 pm VATICAN CITY (CNS)—The Iraqi withdraw from Iraq no later than the end of “The Shack” by William P. Young has quickly become a best seller as it touches parliament’s approval of a timetable for 2011. Under the pact, the United States hearts and gives us pause to think more deeply about our beliefs about healing, faith, U.S. troop withdrawal represents “a step would remove combat forces from Iraqi hope, forgiveness, reconciliation, and joy that are part of this book. forward,” but the country still faces deep cities and villages by the end of June 2009. divisions and serious risks, an Iraqi “The vote represents a step forward, but Join us as we journey through 'The Shack' and discuss points of connection with our archbishop said. anything can happen because the situation Catholic faith and look at the sacramental moments found throughout the book. We “Iraq is still profoundly divided within is still precarious. There is nothing stable or hope you will discover why itself,” Chaldean Archbishop Louis Sako of definitive. The country is going through a 'Papa is especially fond of you!' Kirkuk told the Rome-based agency phase of fragile equilibrium that could AsiaNews on Nov. 28. collapse at any moment,” Archbishop Sako $35 per person includes continental breakfast, lunch, Mass and the program. “One cannot speak of national unity, and said. 8:30 am registration begins even the government recognizes this. There remains the real threat of “a civil The program is 9:00 am-2:30 pm Everyone is trying to gain greater influence war if the nation is left to itself,” he said. in his own territory, and even the capital, The archbishop said the policies enacted Our Lady of Fatima Retreat House Baghdad, which should represent the by President-elect Barack Obama will be symbol of unity, is in reality subdivided crucial for Iraq and the Middle East region. 5353 E. 56th Street into sectors controlled by very specific “It is not possible to predict what Indianapolis, IN 46226 factions,” Archbishop Sako said. initiatives the new American president will He made the comments the day after take, but his decisions will have a (317) 545-7681 Iraq’s parliament voted to approve a fundamental effect on future developments www.archindy.org/fatima A Place to Be With God! security pact that requires U.S. forces to in the entire region,” he said. † Page 10 The Criterion Friday, December 5, 2008 Advent penance services are scheduled at archdiocesan parishes

Parishes throughout the archdiocese have scheduled Bloomington Deanery St. Thérèse of the Infant Jesus (Little Flower) communal penance services for Advent. The following Dec. 10, 7 p.m. at St. Agnes, Nashville Dec. 16, 1:30 p.m. at St. Philip Neri is a list of services that have been reported to Dec. 11, 7 p.m. at St. Martin of Tours, Martinsville Dec. 17, 7 p.m. for SS. Peter and Paul Cathedral, The Criterion. Dec. 16, 7 p.m. at St. Vincent de Paul, Bedford St. Mary and Holy Cross at Holy Cross Dec. 17, 7 p.m. at St. John the Apostle, Bloomington Dec. 17, 6 p.m. at St. Rita Batesville Deanery Dec. 18, 7 p.m. at St. Jude, Spencer Dec. 6, 6:30 p.m. at Holy Family, Oldenburg Indianapolis North Deanery Dec. 9, 7 p.m. at St. John the Evangelist, Enochsburg Connersville Deanery Dec. 14, 2 p.m. deanery service at St. Matthew Dec. 10, 7 p.m. at St. Mary-of-the-Rock, Franklin County Dec. 9, 7 p.m. at St. Anne, New Castle Dec. 16, 7 p.m. deanery service at St. Matthew Dec. 10, 7 p.m. at St. John the Baptist, Osgood Dec. 15, 7 p.m. for St. Michael, Brookville, and Dec. 17, 7 p.m. deanery service at St. Matthew Dec. 11, 7 p.m. at St. Martin, Yorkville Holy Guardian Angels, Cedar Grove, at Holy Guardian Dec. 14, 1 p.m. at St. Maurice, Napoleon Angels, Cedar Grove Indianapolis South Deanery Dec. 14, 3 p.m. at Immaculate Conception, Millhousen Dec. 16, 7 p.m. at St. Elizabeth of Hungary, Dec. 10, 7 p.m. at Holy Name of Jesus, Beech Grove Dec. 15, 7 p.m. at St. Louis, Batesville Cambridge City Dec. 13, 9:30 a.m. at St. Barnabas Dec. 16, 7 p.m. at St. Lawrence, Lawrenceburg Dec. 17, 7 p.m. at Holy Family, Richmond Dec. 15, 6:30 p.m. at Nativity of Our Lord Jesus Christ Dec. 17, 6 p.m. at St. Nicholas, Ripley County Dec. 16, 7 p.m. at St. Jude Dec. 17, 6:30 p.m. at St. John the Baptist, Dover Indianapolis East Deanery Dec. 17, 7 p.m. at St. Mark the Evangelist Dec. 17, 7 p.m. at St. Vincent de Paul, Shelby County Dec. 10, 7 p.m. at St. Simon the Apostle Dec. 22, 7 p.m. at Our Lady of the Greenwood, Dec. 18, 7 p.m. at St. Mary, Greensburg Dec. 15, 7 p.m. for Our Lady of Lourdes, St. Bernadette Greenwood Dec. 19, 7 p.m. at St. Anthony of Padua, Morris and St. Thérèse of the Infant Jesus (Little Flower) at Indianapolis West Deanery Dec. 9, 7 p.m. at St. Monica Dec. 11, 7 p.m. at Mary, Queen of Peace, Danville

New Albany Deanery Dec. 10, 7 p.m. at St. Mary-of-the-Knobs, Floyds Knobs Dec. 11, 6:30 p.m. at St. Paul, Sellersburg Dec. 11, 7 p.m. at St. Francis Xavier, Henryville Dec. 13, 9:30 a.m. at St. Mary-of-the-Knobs, Floyds Knobs Dec. 14, 7 p.m. at St. Mary, Lanesville Dec. 15, 7 p.m. at St. Mary, Navilleton Dec. 17, 7 p.m. at St. Joseph, Corydon Dec. 21, 4 p.m. at Holy Family, New Albany

Seymour Deanery Dec. 9, 7 p.m. at St. Mary, North Vernon Dec. 10, 7 p.m. for Our Lady of Providence, Brownstown, and St. Ambrose, Seymour, at St. Ambrose, Seymour Dec. 11, 7 p.m. at St. Bartholomew, Columbus Dec. 14, 2 p.m. for St. Rose of Lima, Franklin, and Holy Trinity, Edinburgh, at Holy Trinity, Edinburgh Dec. 22, 7 p.m. for St. Anne, Jennings County, and St. Joseph, Jennings County, at St. Joseph, Jennings County

Tell City Deanery Dec. 14, 2 p.m. deanery service at St. Paul, Tell City Dec. 16, 6:30 p.m. deanery service at St. Meinrad, St. Meinrad

Terre Haute Deanery Dec. 11, 1:30 p.m. at St. Ann, Terre Haute Dec. 11, 7 p.m. at St. Joseph University, Terre Haute Dec. 16, 7 p.m. at Annunciation, Brazil Dec. 17, 7 p.m. at St. Paul, Greencastle †

The Pilot CNS photo illustration by Gregory L. Tracy/ Gregory by CNS photo illustration L.

Advent resources are available on archdiocesan Web site

During the season of Advent, the Archdiocese of Indianapolis will have a special Web page at www.archindy.org/advent. The page contains various Advent resources, including links to the daily readings, reflections from Archbishop Daniel M. Buechlein, penance service schedules, images of past Criterion Christmas supplement covers and links of interest to other Advent Web sites. † A supplement to Catholic newspapers published by Catholic News Service, 3211 Fourth Street, N.E., Washington, D.C. 20017-1100. All contents are copyrighted © 2008 by Catholic News FaithAlive! Service. Jesus continues to do miracles through the sacraments By Fr. Gerald O’Collins, S.J. Good News that he preached—and the ultimate challenge: Will I reject Jesus or will Miraculous activity was an essential part I open my arms to him? of Jesus’ ministry. Any account of what he Through his miracles, Jesus showed photo/Crosiers CNS did for people would be dramatically loving compassion to all kinds of people. distorted if we ignore his miracles. His heart went out to them. Dictionaries define “miracles” as events A leper asked for a cure, but Jesus would caused by special divine actions that do not not heal him without first reaching out and follow the normal laws of nature and carry a touching him—presumably on his ravaged particular religious message. Such face (Mk 1:40-42). definitions sound dry as dust until we link The leper had boldly ignored the law them to Jesus himself. about maintaining his distance from others. Talk of miracles comes alive when we He had sought Jesus out, and falling on his recall stories preserved in the Gospels. knees had confidently asked for a cure with St. Luke summed up much of what Jesus the statement, “If you wish, you can make did by saying that “he went about doing me clean” (Mk 1:40). good and healing all those oppressed by the “I do will it. Be made clean,” Jesus devil” (Acts 10:38). replied (Mk 1:41). Luke called Jesus “the author of life” Shunned and excluded from society, the (Acts 3:15). leper was now restored to normal human When some disciples of John the Baptist living. visited Jesus, he said to them, “Go and tell Luke tells of a widow of Nain who had John what you hear and see: The blind lost her only son. She never asked Jesus to regain their sight, the lame walk, lepers are do anything for her. She may not have even cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, known his name, but his heart went out to and the poor have the good news proclaimed her and he brought her dead son back to life to them. And blessed is anyone who takes no (Lk 7:11-17). offence at me” (Mt 11:4-6). When we analyze the miraculous activity This saying from Jesus does not reach its of Jesus, we find him doing good deeds for climax with the startling reference to the all—to those who asked for his help and also raising of the dead. It moves at once to to those who did not. the very center of Jesus’ activity—the Jesus did good deeds for those who responded with great gratitude, like the Samaritan leper he cured, and also to those Apostles healed who never bothered to thank him, like the nine companions of that leper (Lk 17:11-19). By failing to return to offer thanks, the people for Jesus other nine lepers received only physical healing. They missed the greatest chance in By Carole Norris Greene their lives—the gift of faith in Jesus that brought the Samaritan leper salvation in the An unknown artist’s depiction of Jesus healing a blind man was photographed in Belgium. Jesus’ How did the miracles that Jesus full sense. miracles are always signs of God’s healing love. Jesus continues to do miracles today through the performed differ from those of his That Samaritan shows us someone healing power that Catholics receive through the sacraments. followers? responding with gratitude and reverent Paulist Father Lawrence Boadt, a homage to the saving activity of God laid his hands on her. It is only after his evidence by attributing them to demonic Scripture scholar, noted that, “One major operating in and through Jesus. word of command and sacramental gesture influence (Mk 3:22). difference is that Jesus performed We also find Jesus working miracles that she stood up straight and was instantly Those who refused to be touched to the miracles on the authority that he when and where it was dangerous for him to cured (Lk 13:12-13). depths of their existence by Jesus’ words possessed in himself from his Father. The do so. She responded by praising God at once were not going to be persuaded by his Apostles cured in the name of Jesus on When Jesus healed a man who had been for being released from 18 long years of miraculous deeds. his authority, not their own.” disabled for 38 years, ominous threats were infirmity (Lk 13:13). Over and over again, Jesus associated In Acts 3:6, he said, “Peter concretely unleashed. He had cured the lame man on In his miraculous activity, Jesus aimed at his miraculous deeds with his call to faith. cites the name of Jesus as the source of the Sabbath day. Some religious authorities the total well-being of people. He cured He wanted to forgive sinners, save them the cure. Otherwise, the texts that promise started persecuting Jesus because in their them in mind and body. from all the forces of evil and share with the disciples power almost always say eyes this healing had broken the regulations Jesus also shunned mere exhibitionism. them the utterly satisfying blessings of their they will be the same Jesus does” (Lk 9:6, for the Sabbath (Jn 5:1-10). When pressed to do so, he refused to loving God. 10:17-20). For Jesus, the welfare of human beings legitimate his claims by some fancy “sign Jesus’ miracles, like his preaching, “In some cases,” Father Boadt said, always took precedence. from heaven” (Mk 8:11-12). invited people to open their hearts to a love “they used sacramental means, such as On a Sabbath day in a synagogue, Jesus Jesus and the Gospel writers never that will never, ever end. oil, that Jesus did not need to use when called forward a woman who had been “bent thought of his miracles as overwhelming he healed people” (Mk 6:13). over” and “completely incapable of standing arguments that would force people to (Jesuit Father Gerald O’Collins has erect” for 18 years (Lk 13:11). believe that he was the Messiah, Deliverer published 50 books. His latest book is (Carole Norris Greene is associate editor In healing her, Jesus first said, “Woman, and Son of God. It remained open to his Jesus: A Portrait, published by Orbis Books of Faith Alive!) † you are set free of your infirmity,” and then audience to disqualify these deeds as in 2008.) † Discussion Point Miracles are a measure of our faith This Week’s Question giving them something tangible, something they could see and touch and physically experience to bolster When Jesus performed a miracle, what was he saying their faith.” (Mollie Shirek, Lankin, N.D.) to those who witnessed it? “He was telling people to be observant. He was “The words he spoke after the miracle were the reminding us that he’s out there and will help us, and message, telling people that their faith had healed or that there are people with needs outside of ourselves.” saved them. Miracles are a measure of our faith.” (Miletta Kittson, Billings, Mont.) (Christopher Keough, S. Burlington, Vt.) Lend Us Your Voice “I think his message was his love, compassion and concern for people. Whatever he was doing, it showed An upcoming edition asks: What do you do to ensure that love and compassion [prompted] people to follow that you do not live beyond your means? How do you his example.” (Marilyn Collins, Mesa, Ariz.) stick to a budget?

“I believe Jesus was saying to those gathered, To respond for possible publication, send an e-mail to ‘Here is a glimpse of who I am, the son of God.’ [email protected] or write to Faith Alive! at Understanding their human nature, Jesus was also

3211 Fourth St. N.E., Washington, D.C. 20017-1100. † CNS photos/Crosiers Page 12 The Criterion Friday, December 5, 2008 Perspectives From the Editor Emeritus/John F. Fink Faith, Hope and Charity/ David Siler Possible U.S. saints: Father Emil Kapaun Time to move (Twenty-eighth in a series of columns) spiritual and physical needs. trying to indoctrinate them with. A prisoner The prisoners suffered from wretched and who survived, First Lt. Mike Dowe, said Father Emil Kapaun was an Army unsanitary conditions with a meager and that Father Kapaun’s presence turned a back to the chaplain who died on May 23, 1951, at unhealthy diet. Father Kapaun soon learned stinking, louse-ridden hut—for a little age 35 in a Chinese that they had to steal food or slowly starve to while—into a cathedral. front porch POW camp during the death. He risked his life by sneaking into The prisoners were forced to sit for Korean War. He is fields around the prison to look for hidden hours to listen to lectures by Have any of you had a recent conver- buried somewhere along potatoes and sacks of corn. While other “Comrade Sun,” a fanatic who hated sation that did not include some element of the Yalu River in North prisoners kept guards occupied, he would Americans. the current economic Korea. sneak into a supply shed, grab a sack of According to Lt. Dowe, “Father was not downturn? In my As he was being cracked corn and scurry off into the bushes. openly arrogant, nor did he use subterfuge. lifetime, I have never carried away to die, But the men continued to die. The POWs Without losing his temper or raising his heard more pessimism while suffering intense had to bury their own dead, and voice, he’d answer the lecturer point by or fear related to pain, he told his fellow Father Kapaun always volunteered to do it, point, with a calm logic that set financial issues—much prisoners, “If I don’t come back, tell my praying for their souls as he dug their graves. Comrade Sun screaming and leaping on the of which is certainly bishop that I died a happy death.” He buried them naked, taking their clothing platform like an angry ape.” justified. He was born in 1916 in Pilsen, Kan. He to help warm the living. He washed the foul Father Kapaun was never punished, My thoughts was ordained a priest in 1940 and, during undergarments of the dead, and distributed although he was threatened, and it soon quickly turn to the World War II, served as an Army chaplain in them to men who could barely move became evident, Lt. Dowe said, that “the people already living China and Burma. In 1949, he was sent to because of dysentery. Chinese were afraid of him. They on the margins of society. Japan and in 1950 to Korea. Enlisted men POWs were held in their recognized in him a strength they could not The “margin” is widening, and if He was captured by the Chinese on own huts, and Father Kapaun learned how to break, a spirit they could not quell.” things continue on our current path, we Nov. 2, 1950, as he was giving the last rites escape to visit them. He would lead a quick Eventually, Father Kapaun battled will have a far greater number falling off to a dying soldier. During the next prayer service before giving a short sermon, dysentery, pneumonia and a blood clot in the edge. six months and 21 days, he did everything urging the men not to lose hope and not to one of his legs. The Chinese carried him to With the economy not just screeching he could to minister to his fellow prisoners’ fall for the doctrines that the Chinese were what served as a hospital, where he died. † to a halt but downright turning and running in the other direction, we will It’s All Good/Patti Lamb begin to see more and more individuals and families in desperate need of life’s most basic necessities. This Christmas, find yourself wanting what you’ve got There have been numerous surveys conducted in the U.S. recently to find out This week, I received three thick, glossy glowed. of “Happy Birthday” to Jesus after breakfast what is happening to charitable giving. It catalogs in the mail. Page after page featured This is the season when we are flooded warms my heart. will come as no surprise that most colorful “picture perfect” with catalogs and commercials about how to Please don’t misunderstand me. A wide institutions that rely heavily on donations holidays. address everyone on our Christmas lists. screen TV is a generous gift, and provides are already experiencing a significant The front of one On the way out to do some shopping of much enjoyment. But the real gift is the decline. catalog showed mom my own, I flipped on the radio and came friends and family who gather around it, not And at the same time—for the same and dad sitting in their upon an upbeat song I hadn’t heard in a the plasma screen. reason—the number of people seeking coordinating pajamas while. I remembered why I liked that song. It is not things that ultimately make us charitable assistance is skyrocketing. (A near the tree with son There is a particular line in it that’s always happy, but God’s love, which is manifested recent survey of Catholic Charities and daughter in the stood out to me. The lyrics: “It’s not having in many ways. agencies revealed that 87 percent of foreground cooperatively what you want; it’s wanting what you’ve got.” He blesses us abundantly in ways no programs are seeing an increase in building an impressive When I dropped my son off at preschool catalog can display: the unconditional love demand.) This inverse relation will spell gingerbread house. this morning, it was below freezing. I was of family, true and lasting friendships, disaster for many of our neighbors. Despite the fact that their gingerbread grateful to have my fleece jacket, scarf and laughter, faith, good health, a safe place to I heard a theory today that I hope is cottage was complete with gumdrops, hat, none of which matched. I didn’t look like call home, and a daily bounty of food, not true: When economic conditions become sprinkles and flawlessly piped icing, not a the woman in the catalog donning that high- to mention eternal salvation. These and so bleak that people put off making big crumb was visible on the table. end sweater. But I was wearing warm countless others are genuine gifts—the kind purchases like a house or new car, these The next catalog featured incredible clothing, and I was comfortable. you can’t put a price on. significant savings (by delaying these electronics. On the inside front cover, a And when my family gathers around the Sometimes those catalog pictures make purchases) allow people to keep more of family was all smiles as they gathered around Christmas tree, we don’t wear coordinating me greedy. I need to realize how blessed I their income and, therefore, makes them the wide-screen TV, enjoying a larger-than- apparel and look like we stepped out of a am instead of wanting more. It is a more able to make charitable contri- life game in high definition. magazine. wonderful life. Right now, without more. If butions. However, for those who are laid The third catalog showcased the most My daughter’s hair is usually covering her we think about it, we really have quite a lot. off from their jobs, no income leaves gorgeous cashmere sweater I think I have eyes like “Cousin Itt” from “The Addams So as the holidays approach, I hope you nothing to give. ever seen. Retail price: unmentionable. Family.” My son inevitably has food on his can embrace those song lyrics. No one knows where this shifting Maybe it was especially flattering because face, and it is highly likely that we are This Christmas, may you find yourself reality will leave us but, as a believer that there was no baby spit-up or grape jelly on it. already missing a piece from any given new wanting what you’ve got. God works out all things for good, I am That and the fact that the model wearing it toy. certain that much good will result from was gazing up at the glistening, lightly falling But we are together. I wouldn’t trade it for (Patti Lamb, a member of St. Susanna our increasing insecurity. Perhaps our snow as she gathered firewood in a anything. No one can top daddy’s pancakes Parish in Plainfield, is a regular columnist lesson will be to put our security in the neatly manicured forest. Her flawless skin shaped like mittens. And my son’s rendition for The Criterion.) † things that last. One of my hopes at this time in our Faithful Lines/Shirley Vogler Meister history is that we will begin to see a shift in our society—both here in the U.S. and throughout the world—from our staunch Advent musings: Looking back and looking forward independence to a more clear understanding and appreciation for our Earlier this year, I received a note from when it comes to keeping Christmas secrets so I will simply say that “our hearts interdependence, our connection as one my daughter, Donna, and her husband, from children! soared.” human family. Roby, in Cleveland. This summer, however, our daughters What our daughters planned for us was Drive down just about any street in She wrote, “Now that I proved they are also masterful with an amazing success! As we ate and visited Indiana where the homes were built am a Mom … I secrets. On July 12—one day after my with everyone, photographs of our wedding before 1950 and you will notice that many understand why you birthday and two days after a grandson’s and the times between then and now were of the houses have large, open front say that being a Mom birthday—Paul and I and some of our displayed on a screen. porches. Drive through the newest is your greatest family members went to celebrate with a Even our wedding colors were used for neighborhoods and you will see very few accomplishment.” double-birthday dinner at the the décor and cake—and our wedding front porches but, if you look around the She and her Athenaeum’s Rathskeller. album was there to view, too. (Lisa, who back, you will see some elaborate decks. sisters—Diane, who Upon arriving, we found more than masterminded much of this event, took the Front porches call to mind a time when lives in Plymouth, 30 others gathered there and shouting, album without our knowledge when she neighbors knew one another, where they Ind., and Lisa, who “Surprise! Happy 50th anniversary!”—or also made an unexpected visit on gathered to share stories, a cup of coffee resides in Nashville, Tenn.—have something equivalent. Father’s Day.) or a meal. expressed similar sentiments through the Paul and I were stunned because our On Thanksgiving, we gave thanks for Today, families gather on the back years. They know we love them without golden wedding anniversary wasn’t until our blessings, including family members deck—a wonderful thing to do—but few bounds, and we know their love is sincere. Aug. 27. Our daughters chose to surprise us and friends. Now into the Advent season, interact with their neighbors. We have They have shown it in countless ways, early because of other family commitments we continue to thank God for our wonderful moved from a front porch society to a especially when there have been family, later that month. family and friends. back deck world. medical or other crises from time to time. As it turned out, this was perfect. At the We are also grateful to have spent These wild economic times will cause More than that, we can communicate time of our actual anniversary, we needed 50 years as members of Christ the King us all to re-evaluate our priorities, and with them in their adulthood in satisfying to be elsewhere, too. Parish in Indianapolis. Our daughters may force us to rely more on one another. and worthwhile ways, and they always Hometown-related family and friends, attended the parish school and This might not be such a bad thing. keep in touch. including some of our original wedding Bishop Chatard High School. I will look for you on the front porch. However, we also learned that they can attendants, plus some longtime local The future is bright! be “sneaky,” just as Paul and I were during friends helped us celebrate early. Some (David Siler is executive director of the their childhood years when we kept secrets guests came from faraway states. (Shirley Vogler Meister, a member of Christ Secretariat for Catholic Charities and from them, especially during end-of-the- Although I am a writer, I actually the King Parish in Indianapolis, is a Family Ministries. E-mail him at year holidays. Parents know all the tricks struggle for words to describe our emotions regular columnist for The Criterion.) † [email protected].) † The Criterion Friday, December 5, 2008 Page 13

Second Sunday of Advent/ Msgr. Owen F. Campion Daily Readings Monday, Dec. 8 Friday, Dec. 12 The Sunday Readings The Immaculate Conception of Our Lady of Guadalupe the Blessed Virgin Mary Zechariah 2:14-17 Sunday, Dec. 7, 2008 of the Lord’s public ministry. Genesis 3:9-15, 20 or Revelation 11:19a; 12:1-6a, This reading quotes Isaiah’s prophecy • Isaiah 40:1-5, 9-11 that God, as pledged, will send a represen- Psalm 98:1-4 10ab • 2 Peter 3:8-14 tative to guide the people from death to Ephesians 1:3-6, 11-12 (Response) Judith 13:18bc, 19 • Mark 1:1-8 life, from the deadly effects of their sins to Luke 1:26-38 Luke 1:26-38 the bright realms of God’s forgiveness. or Luke 1:39-47 The first reading for this The Gospel then tells of John the Tuesday, Dec. 9 Second Sunday of Advent is from the Baptist, who went throughout Judea Juan Diego, hermit Saturday, Dec. 13 second section of calling people to repentance. Isaiah. John reinforced his role as a prophet by Isaiah 40:1-11 Lucy, virgin and martyr When this book was being thoroughly detached from the things Psalm 96:1-3, 10-13 Sirach 48:1-4, 9-11 written, very bad times of this world. His very appearance, and Matthew 18:12-14 Psalm 80:2-3, 15-16, 18-19 seemed about to end behavior, emphasized the fact that only the Matthew 17:9a, 10-13 for God’s people. spiritual matters. Only God matters. Wednesday, Dec. 10 Their long, dreary Mark’s Gospel, however, is careful to exile of four gener - say that John himself was not the Isaiah 40:25-31 Sunday, Dec. 14 ations in Babylon was messenger promised by God in the Psalm 103:1-4, 8, 10 Third Sunday of Advent about to end. They writings of Isaiah, but rather that John Matthew 11:28-30 Isaiah 61:1-2a, 10-11 were looking forward came before this messenger. The (Response) Luke 1:46-50, to returning to their homeland. messenger, the Savior, of course, was the Thursday, Dec. 11 53-54 The people’s joy and relief is evident in Lord Jesus. Damasus I, pope 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24 this reading. Readers can sense their longing to return to their homeland. Also, Reflection Isaiah 41:13-20 John 1:6-8, 19-28 and importantly, readers can realize that During Advent, through the liturgies Psalm 145:1, 9-13b the people saw their rescue as a gift from and readings, the Church clearly, frankly Matthew 11:11-15 God, given in God’s faithfulness to the and directly calls people to remember who Covenant. they are as humans and to recognize the Divine mercy formed to provide this devastating results of sin in their lives. Question Corner/Fr. John Dietzen rescue. The people had neither created This week, this message comes from their escape, nor had they earned it. Second Peter. It also echoes Second Isaiah Actually, their sins had caused their and Mark. Sin, or total estrangement from Advent liturgies should reflect troubles. God mercifully forgave them and God through personal sin, is indeed the eradicated the effect of their sins, namely root of all evil, producing death itself, not the Exile. simply earthly death but eternal death. time of joyous waiting for Jesus Thus, the prophet urges the people to be And, inevitably, it leads to misery in life thankful, insisting that upon returning to on Earth. I am writing about a recent trend in our (“praise to the Lord”) has been by nature a their homeland the people must go to However, these lessons, while Qparish that has made Advent almost sung prayer. Speaking it, rather than singing, Jerusalem, to the holy mountain where unequivocal and admittedly dour, are not indistinguishable from is like reciting instead of singing “Happy stood the temple, and proclaim aloud the in the end terrifying or filled with doom. Lent. birthday to you.” goodness of God there. Instead, all three readings remind us that Only penitential The Church’s liturgical documents To any who doubt, the prophet declares God’s mercy is overwhelming and songs are sung, the generally simply assume that the that this release from exile is proof of unending. “Alleluia” is only “Alleluia” is always sung. (See, for God’s existence and God’s love. In God’s mercy is hope. Through God’s recited, not sung, and no example, the 1972 decree of the Congre- For its second reading this weekend, the mercy, sins are forgiven and everlasting decorations of any kind gation for Divine Worship governing Church presents a passage from the life is acquired. are allowed until chants at Mass, #7.) The “Instruction on Second Epistle of Peter. The key to obtaining this mercy Christmas Eve. Sacred Music” of the U.S. bishops’ Its theme differs from that of the personally is to recognize personal sin and The priest’s homilies Committee on the Liturgy says, “If not first reading. The first reading was repent. are on sinfulness and sung, the ‘Alleluia’ should be omitted” wonderfully optimistic. This reading is The Church’s wondrous reassurance in repentance. Advent Masses are almost like (#55). grim in its predictions of dark days and these readings is that God never turns Good Friday. gloom. away a sincerely sorrowful sinner. We can It is all very discouraging and confusing to Two years ago, I became friends with a However, it does not forecast always rely on God’s love, but God does our family. Qman with whom I work. We can discuss everlasting death. Bad things will happen. not drag us kicking and screaming into Isn’t the idea of Advent to be a time of anything and have developed a close Difficult times will come, but God will heaven. We must turn to God voluntarily preparation for Christmas with some relationship. We are beginning to talk of protect the faithful. In this last reassurance, and wholeheartedly. anticipation and festivity about it? Or is this marriage. the reading parallels the message of the Advent calls us to realize that we need changed? (Illinois) Is there anything in the Bible that speaks first reading. God, especially in our sinfulness. We need of interracial relationships? The last reading is from the beginning God’s mercy, but we personally must seek Assuming that you reflect the circum- I am Caucasian and he is black, but with of St. Mark’s Gospel and relates the story it by repenting. † Astances accurately, the observance of each other we don’t see color. I’m interested Advent in your parish’s liturgies is, to say the in what God tells us, if anything, in Scripture. least, unusual. Thank you for whatever information you can My Journey to God Whoever is responsible for your parish’s offer me. (North Carolina) liturgical planning seems to be out of touch with, or perhaps has never learned, the There is nothing in the Bible specifically Church’s tradition and teaching about this Aabout interracial marriage. The Rose Thieves beautiful season. To begin with, you would want to examine Nimbly, they tugged at the stems Certainly, there is a penitential aspect to carefully all those concerns faced by any Imbedded in the bouquets these weeks, but their framework, spirit and other couple preparing for marriage. Like rubber gloves in the box focus differ significantly from that which In addition, of course, you need to ask By the hospice bed, characterizes the time of Lent. yourselves very specifically how you would At least since the time of St. Bernard of deal together with the social and perhaps Only more secure, tightly packed against Clairvaux, nearly 1,000 years ago, the time of economic implications for your biracial Chrysanthemums, lilies, Advent has focused on the three comings of family if you marry. lupine, ivy and fern. our Lord: his birth in the Incarnation, the Another major factor is how supportive final coming at the completion of his work of and accepting both of your families will be They collected the roses … white, pink redemption and, between these two, his for you and your children, and what the and red … presence and saving power at work in the “climate”‘ is for interracial families where Out of the casket floral offering Church through the ages. you will live. And all the ones from vases on the Advent, in other words, is primarily a You will, I’m sure, be asked by your ground. time of joyous waiting, anticipating the parish priest to participate in the usual commemoration of his birth, and marriage preparation programs for your Gathered in their arms, the blossoms celebrating his continued presence and diocese, which should be quite helpful. Were presented to the grieving sister saving grace among us. Some books and other writings by couples To be dried and processed All this happens under our awareness that, in an interracial marriage are available in by living the mystery of Christ, we await libraries and through the Internet. They might Catholic Courier Into holy beads, in honor with him his final victory over sin and death. suggest some insights to think about. Of the Mother of the One The Church repeatedly emphasizes that all I hope that everything works out for you. Who would comfort them all. Advent liturgies should reflect this watchful Good luck. joy. In music, visual environment and the

By Susie McAllister Crupi, CNS photo/Mike overall tone of the liturgy, it is quite distinct (A free brochure outlining basic Catholic from the penitential time before Easter. prayers, beliefs and moral precepts is (Susie McAllister is a member of Our Lady of Lourdes Parish in Indianapolis. She As the introduction to the Roman Missal available by sending a stamped, self- dedicated this poem to “all those who grieve and to those who stand beside them,” says, these weeks before Christmas are a addressed envelope to Father John Dietzen, especially during the holiday season. A rose adorns this snow-covered statue of Mary “season of devout and joyful expectation.” Box 3315, Peoria, IL 61612. Questions may outside St. Theodore Church in Rochester, N.Y., in February 2007.) Throughout the centuries, even before be sent to Father Dietzen at the same address Christianity, the acclamation “Alleluia” or by e-mail in care of [email protected].) † Page 14 The Criterion Friday, December 5, 2008

of 16. Great-grandmother of several. Great-great-grandmother Franciscan Sister Callista Rosenberger taught for 59 years of several. Franciscan Sister Callista Rosenberger was born on St. Martin School in SMITH, Dennis E., 61, M. Rosenberger died on May 29, 1907, in Yorkville and the former Rest in peace St. Mary, New Albany, Nov. 20. Nov. 16 at St. Clare Hall, the Cedar Grove. St. Vincent de Paul School Father of Edward Smith. Brother health care facility of the She entered the Oldenburg in Shelby County. Please submit in writing to our KECK, Theresa Marie, 58, of Teresa Clark and Steven Sisters of the Third Order of Franciscan community on In 1990, Sister Callista office by 10 a.m. Thursday St. Gabriel the Archangel, Indian- Smith. Grandfather of one. St. Francis, in Oldenburg. She Dec. 7, 1925, and professed retired to the motherhouse. was 101. her final vows on July 2, 1931. Surviving are a sister, before the week of publication; apolis, Nov. 18. Mother of Jean SMITH, Marguerite L., 70, be sure to state date of death. Lowhorn and Angie McGuire. The Mass of Christian Sister Callista taught at Franciscan Sister Mary Helen St. Luke the Evangelist, Indian- Burial was celebrated on Catholic grade schools in Obituaries of archdiocesan Daughter of Betty Reeves. Sister Rosenberger of Oldenburg, apolis, Nov. 13. Wife of Ronald Nov. 19 at the motherhouse Indiana, Ohio, Missouri and and nieces and nephews. priests serving our archdiocese of Elizabeth Dininger, Mary Smith. Mother of Debbie Lacy chapel in Oldenburg. Burial Illinois for 59 years. Memorial gifts may be sent are listed elsewhere in Huber, Alice MacGruder, Patty and Ronald Smith. followed at the sisters’ In the archdiocese, she to the Sisters of St. Francis, The Criterion. Order priests Stephens, Bob, Charles, Mike, VERNIER, M. Lorraine, 86, cemetery. taught at St. Nicholas School P.O. Box 100, Oldenburg, IN and religious sisters and Steve and Tim Reeves. Grand - St. Lawrence, Indianapolis, The former Elsie Margaret in Sunman, the former 47036. † brothers are included here, mother of five. Nov. 21. Mother of Vivi Mason, unless they are natives of the LAKER, Rose M., 85, St. Mark Vette Jennings, Vicki Rennier, archdiocese or have other the Evangelist, Indianapolis, Venetia Shultz and Vaughn connec tions to it; those are Nov. 23. Mother of Susan Cline, Vernier. Grandmother of 17. separate obituaries on this Annette Conlon, Michele and Great-grandmother of 24. page. Rick Laker. Sister of Theresa WATTS, Betsy R., 79, BEER, Patricia (Mason), 75, Bergman, Annie Glasgow and St. Christopher, Indianapolis, Joseph Zappia. Grandmother of St. Monica, Indianapolis, Nov. 2. Mother of Robin Devine, eight. Great-grandmother of nine. Nov. 12. Wife of Jerry Beer. Mickie Hoy, Deborah Smith, Mother of Therese McKinney, MASARIU, Elizabeth Lee, 85, John, Michael, Raymond, Robert Terry and Tim Beer. Sister of St. Christopher, Indianapolis, and Timothy Watts II. Grand - Robert Mason. Grandmother of Nov. 2. Mother of Diane mother of 19. Great-grandmother four. Masariu-Carter, Nancy of two. McGovern, Beth Ann, Danny, BOWE, Aileen Marie, 82, WHITE, John Vernon, 42, Mark and Mike Masariu. Grand - St. Joseph, Sellersburg, Nov. 7. Good Shepherd, Indianapolis, mother of seven. Great-grand - Sister of Martha, Carl and Nov. 18. Husband of Audrey mother of five. Herman Bowe. (Wheeler) White. Father of BREHM, Thomas Thornton, OSKAY, Matthew, 30, Nativity Elizabeth, Erica, Josi, Austin and 76, SS. Peter and Paul Cathedral, of Our Lord Jesus Christ, Indian- Evan White. Son of Billie White. Indianapolis, Nov. 16. Father of apolis, Nov. 14. Husband of Erin Stepson of Vicki White. Brother Debra, Jody, Daniel, John and (Bergeron) Oskay. Son of Eugene of Fay Boone, Sherry Dannattelle Michael Brehm. Brother of and Linda Oskay. Brother of and Kay Stawick. Stepbrother of Gretchen Beck and Karen Jason and Jeff Oskay. Chad, Matt and Rod Little. LaFuse. Grandfather of eight. PITSTICK, Florence C., 94, ZIMMER, Lucille (Nix), 93, Great-grandfather of two. St. Gabriel, Connersville, St. Pius X, Indianapolis, Nov. 17. BUECHLER, John C., 87, Nov. 17. Mother of Lois Mother of Jeanne Remmers and St. Michael, Bradford, Nov. 5. Harmeyer, Mary Ellen Huffman, Mary Jo Zimmer. Sister of Betty Husband of Rita (Daus) Elaine Sargent, David and James Beuligmann, Carolyn Lowe and Buechler. Father of Kathleen Pitstick. Sister of Alma Maxted Tom Nix. Grandmother of two. Black, Marilyn Craig, Dolores and Paul Grogan. Grandmother Great-grandmother of four. † Martin, Darlene Smith and Larry Buechler. Brother of Valerie Daus, Geneva Smith and Herman Sister Buechler. Grandfather of nine. SHARE IN THE CARE Great-grandfather of six. Mary Lucien Dippel, O.S.B. COLLINS, Joseph Lee, 62, December 14, 2008 Holy Spirit, Indianapolis, “When I celebrated my Nov. 11. Husband of Linda diamond jubilee and Collins. Father of Melissa Vail. RETIREMENT FUND FOR RELIGIOUS Brother of Bridgette, Julie, Mary, my picture was in Shannon, Mark and Tom Collins. The Criterion, a girl I had Grandfather of three. taught at St. Anthony School [then] in DRIVER, Vernon, 76, St. Rita, Indianapolis, Nov. 14. Husband Jeffersonville way back in 1948 saw it and wrote to me. of Dr. Robienetta Driver. Father I had her in my second-grade class. We moved [the of Damond and Kim Morris, parish church and school] out to Clarksville and our Pauline Robinson, Virginia first school year was in 1949. We had only four Wyatt, Elizabeth, Bryan and classrooms and we were crowded. We had more than Mark Driver. Brother of Kanzetta 220 [students] in four classrooms. One sister had Bernard. Grandfather of 17. 72 [students] in her room. One year I taught Great-grandfather of two. 60 students in second grade.” FAGAN, Jacquelyn (Niece), 77, Our Lady of Lourdes, Indian- “The first sisters came up in 1956 and then our apolis, Nov. 17. Mother of Karen first summer up here was 1957. If you were missioned McLeish, John and Mark Fagan. in the archdiocese that meant you came up here.” Sister of Judy Smithart and Dale Niece. Grandmother of six. GANZA, Elmer, 87, Christ the Sister King, Indianapolis, Nov. 11. Mary Carol Husband of Donna Ganza. Father of Carol and Kenneth Ganza. Messmer, O.S.B. Brother of Patricia Benedetto and Phillip Ganza. Grandfather of “I taught mostly in southern three. From left to right, Sister Mary Lucien Dippel, O.S.B., Sister Mary Carol Indiana, just two parishes Messmer, O.S.B. and Sister Marie Oliger, O.S.B. in the archdiocese that I GREEN, Vernon Joseph, 82, taught in. I last taught at St. Mary, Mitchell, Oct. 27. Husband of Dymple Green. All three Sisters of St. Benedict are charter members of Our Lady of [the former St. John School Father of Chris Green. Brother of Grace Monastery in Beech Grove. They taught in schools in the in] Starlight for 35 years. I retired from the classroom Pauline Taylor. Grandfather of Archdiocese of Indianapolis and the Diocese of Evansville before in 1993 then the pastor asked me to stay on and work one. retiring. in the parish office so I came home [to the monastery] GROSSMAN, Veronika in 2005.” Helena, 79, Christ the King, Indianapolis, Nov. 15. Sister of About 58 percent of women and men religious are past 70; 7 percent are John Paberzs. past age 90, More than 4, 900 need skilled nursing care. Even at Sister HERMESCH, Marie E., 78, advanced ages, many work in compensated or volunteer ministry that Marie Oliger, O.S.B. Immaculate Conception, benefits others. Millhousen, Nov. 24. Wife of “Last year, I was standing Ralph Hermesch. Mother of in line at a craft store and Teresa Buening, Patricia Gray, Religious institutes are financially autonomous and responsible for the the lady in front of me said, Michelle Holcomb, Denise support of their members. Income sources include compensated ministry, ‘Oh, Sister Marie! … Powner, Alan, Dale, Gary, Mark government benefits and investment return. Another lady was behind and Paul Hermesch. Sister of me. When I left, she called Alvina Kress and Ralph Hodapp. Most elderly religious receive, on average, a Social Security benefit of my name as we got outside. She said, ‘Could you be the Grandmother of 22. Great-grand - Sister Marie that taught me at St. Benedict School in mother of three. just $4,402 per year. Community living provides some economies of Evansville?’ That was in 1948. And I said, ‘Yes,’ and KAISER, Ozetta J., 72, scale, but health care and living costs in most religious communities far we stood and talked for about 45 minutes or an hour.” Our Lady of Perpetual Help, exceed income. New Albany, Nov. 12. Mother of “I had 67 kids in the first grade one year at Christ the Shelly Kraft, Sandy Nance, King School in Evansville.” Susan Waiz, Mark, Matt and Ninety-five percent of donations to the National Religious Retirement Mike Kaiser. Sister of Evelyn Office aid elderly religious. Burgenheim. Grandmother of 15. The Criterion Friday, December 5, 2008 Page 15

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Account No. ______Exp. Date ______Signature______Page 16 The Criterion Friday, December 5, 2008 Vatican makes clear its opposition to U.N. homosexuality declaration

VATICAN CITY (CNS)—The Vatican presidency of the EU, plans to present the communities that uphold marriage has made clear its opposition to the proposal on the 60th anniversary of the as only being between a man and a United Nations endorsing a universal U.N.’s Universal Declaration of Human woman, the Vatican spokesman declaration to decriminalize homosexuality. Rights in the hope that U.N. member states said. Roller photo/Bob CNS Archbishop Celestino Migliore, the will make a nonbinding declaration to Under such a declaration, Vatican’s apostolic nuncio to the decriminalize homosexuality. nations or communities that “do United Nations, and Vatican spokesman Almost 80 countries have laws prohibiting not put every sexual orientation on Jesuit Father Federico Lombardi said unjust homosexual activity, and several nations exactly the same level can be forms of discrimination against homosexuals include the death penalty as a form of considered contrary to the respect must be avoided. punishment for such activity. of human rights,” he said. However, the Vatican does not approve of Father Lombardi said that “obviously It is no wonder then, he said, a formal declaration with political weight nobody wants to defend the death penalty for that fewer than 50 U.N. member that might be used to put pressure on or homosexuals.” states have endorsed the draft discriminate against countries that do not The Church supports fundamental human declaration and more than 150 recognize same-sex marriage, they said. rights and opposes every form of “unjust have not signed on. A draft declaration, drawn up by France discrimination” which includes “not just the “The Vatican is not alone” in its and endorsed by the European Union, was to death penalty, but all violent or discrimi- opposition to the proposal, he said. be presented to the U.N. General Assembly natory criminal laws against homosexuals,” On Dec. 10, the U.N. General on Dec. 10. It condemns discrimination he said in a commentary on Vatican Radio on Assembly also was to be presented based on sexual orientation and gender Dec. 1. with a petition to make abortion a Pope Benedict XVI waves to the media after visiting the identity. The Vatican spokesman made his remarks universally recognized human United Nations in New York on April 18. At left is Archbishop Migliore told the French news after Archbishop Migliore’s comments were right. Archbishop Celestino Migliore, Vatican permanent observer agency I.Media on Dec. 1 that adding these published. He said the archbishop clearly Archbishop Migliore told to the U.N. The Vatican has made clear its opposition to the “new categories [to be] protected from expressed the Church’s and the Vatican’s I.Media that such a proposal was United Nations endorsing a universal declaration to discrimination” would create in turn “new position. “sad and outrageous” and decriminalize homosexuality. and inflexible [forms of] discrimination.” Father Lombardi said the problem with represented the kind of “modern For example, he said, “states that do not the draft proposal is that it does not just ask savagery that will dismantle our society by allowing declarations that are no recognize same-sex unions as ‘marriage’ will for the decriminalization of homosexuality. from the inside out.” longer about promoting and protecting be pilloried and put under pressure” to do so. It also includes a declaration that might The initiative would promote the fundamental rights but about “personal France, which holds the rotating put pressure on or discriminate against dismantling of the human-rights system choices,” he said. † Catholic Charities USA warns against fraudulent e-mails on Internet WASHINGTON (CNS)—Catholic Charities USA officials Program,” Pinney told Catholic News Service on Dec. 1. messages or suffer consequences. have demanded that groups using the Catholic Charities name The name “Catholic Charities” was used within the body of “Your unauthorized use of the name ‘Catholic Charities’ to solicit funds on the Internet discontinue using the trademark some of the e-mails, said Candy S. Hill, senior vice president is likely to cause confusion, mistake or deception among the and urged potential donors to research the authenticity of an for social policy and government affairs at Catholic Charities recipients of the e-mail,” Father Snyder said in his statement. organization before making a contribution. USA. “We insist that you immediately discontinue all further “Fraudulent e-mails that are misappropriating the name of The messages—which come from several different e- sending of the above e-mail.” Catholic Charities USA and its affiliates are being sent to mail addresses and provide a variety of contact names— In the statement, he said he wishes to settle the matter in extract money and/or personal information from unsuspecting ask recipients for detailed personal information, Pinney an amicable way and asked for a reply within seven days to recipients and are circulating on the Internet,” said Brandon said. confirm they have halted such e-mails. Pinney, spokesman for Catholic Charities USA. In an effort to stop the e-mails, Father Larry Snyder, As of Dec. 1, Catholic Charities did get one automated The e-mails are labeled with the subject titles “Grant Catholic Charities USA president, replied on Nov. 26 to each response from one of the dozen or so e-mails it sent out, but Notification,” “The Catholic Charity,” “The Catholic Charity of the addresses brought to the organization’s attention, had not received a reply stating the practice would be discon- Foundation” and “From the Office of the Cash Grant insisting the sender stop disseminating such confusing tinued, Hill said. †

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