aster E April 10, 2020 Message Vol. LX, No. 26 2020 Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,

Alleluia! Let us rejoice in the Risen Lord Jesus Christ! After a Lenten Season and Holy Week like none other in our lifetimes, and though it may not “feel” like it to many, this year’s celebration of Easter should hold even more profound meaning for us. It is with firm conviction of faith and hope, not mere “feeling,” that prompts us to rejoice in the Resurrection of the Lord and look forward to Archbishop Charles our own resurrection. C. Thompson Given the suspension of public Mass and other liturgical celebrations these last several weeks, as well as various parish gatherings and activities, our desire to encounter the empty tomb of our Savior is greatly heightened beyond anything the world can match or satisfy. Hopefully, the measures taken to combat the spread of the coronavirus have intensified our Lenten prayer, fasting and almsgiving to further enrich our appreciation for all that Jesus endured in his passion and death for our salvation. Taking up our cross has perhaps taken on new meaning for many of us, for it is in times of crisis and challenge that we discover whether we are truly Christ-centered or self-centered. It is in Him, not ourselves, that we are saved. Like those first Apostles to the empty tomb, we may be wondering what this particular Easter experience might mean for us. Unlike those first Apostles, we know the rest of the story. Jesus Christ is alive! Having conquered sin and death, He is Risen! He has won victory for us over all things of this world. He is with us, lifting the hearts and minds of all those who place their trust in Him. Nothing can separate us from the saving love and grace of God. Indeed, amid whatever fears or concerns we may be experiencing at this or any given moment, we have cause to rejoice. Let us be bold in our witness to proclaim the Good News of the Risen Lord Jesus Christ. Now is the time for all believers to embrace the call to holiness and mission, focusing on what is essential for salvation. We are Church, the Body of Jesus The Resurrection is depicted in this Christ, both crucified and risen. Alleluia! 19th-century painting by Johann Friedrich Overbeck. Easter, the chief Blessed Easter! feast in the liturgical calendars of all Christian churches, commemorates Christ’s resurrection from the dead. Easter is on April 12 this year. Archbishop Charles C. Thompson (CNS photo/Bridgeman Images) M ensaje de Pascua 2020 Queridos hermanas y hermanos en Cristo: combatir la propagación del coronavirus y las mentes de todos los que depositan su hayan intensificado nuestra oración, ayuno confianza en Él. Nada puede apartarnos del ¡Aleluya! ¡Alegrémonos en nuestro y limosna cuaresmal, para enriquecer amor y la gracia salvadora de Dios. Señor Jesucristo resucitado! todavía más la valoración de todo lo que Efectivamente, a pesar de los temores o Luego de una temporada de Cuaresma y Jesús soportó por nuestra salvación durante las preocupaciones que tengamos en este una Semana Santa como ninguna otra que su pasión y muerte. Quizá para muchos de momento o en cualquier otro, tenemos hayamos tenido en nuestras vidas, quizá nosotros la expresión “cargar con la cruz” motivos para alegrarnos. Seamos testigos la de este año no se “sienta” como una haya adquirido un nuevo significado ya audaces que proclaman la Buena Nueva de celebración de Pascua, pero debería encerrar que en tiempos de crisis y desafíos es que nuestro Señor Jesucristo resucitado. Ahora un significado todavía más profundo para descubrimos si estamos verdaderamente es el momento para que todos los creyentes nosotros. Nos alegramos por la resurrección centrados en Cristo o en nosotros mismos. adoptemos el llamado a la santidad y a del Señor y esperamos con ansias la nuestra, Nuestra salvación está en Él, no en nosotros. nuestra misión, y nos concentremos en no con un mero “sentido” sino con la firme Al igual que los primeros apóstoles aquello que es esencial para la salvación. convicción de fe y esperanza. frente al sepulcro vacío, quizá nos estemos Somo Iglesia, el Cuerpo de Cristo Dada la suspensión de las misas preguntando qué significará específicamente crucificado y resucitado. ¡Aleluya! públicas y otras celebraciones litúrgicas para nosotros esta experiencia pascual. de las últimas semanas, así como de otras Pero, a diferencia de los primeros apóstoles, ¡Que tengan una bendecida Pascua de reuniones y actividades parroquiales, nuestro conocemos el resto de la historia: ¡Jesucristo Resurrección! deseo de encontrar el sepulcro vacío de está vivo! ¡Conquistó el pecado y la muerte, y nuestro Salvador crece exponencialmente, ha resucitado! Logró la victoria por nosotros más allá de cualquier consideración terrenal. sobre todo aquello que hay en este mundo. Ojalá que las medidas adoptadas para Está con nosotros, levantando los corazones Arzobispo Charles C. Thompson Page 2 The Criterion Friday, April 10, 2020

Let us continue to be good Public Schedule of Archbishop Charles C. Thompson stewards in this time of crisis ______No public events scheduled at this time. Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ, another month or so before the economy can begin to reverse course weighs Greetings in Jesus Christ the heavily on many households. The poor Cornerstone! Though it may seem as if and vulnerable are often most impacted situation of needing to ask for assistance. and faithful disciples. Please continue there is no light at the end of the tunnel by the effects of any crisis. On behalf of all those served by your to support your parish in helping others during this time of For those who are blessed with generosity, thank you. who are less fortunate and in need. Pope sheltering and social economic security, if you have not Catholics are not very good at Francis often points to the Parable of the distancing to combat already been doing so, please consider advertising our great works and successes, Good Samaritan (Lk 10:29-37) and the the coronavirus, let providing financial support to your and rarely do these make the spotlight. Parable of the Talents (Mt 25:31-46) as us not forget that parish in this critical time. The Church The fact remains, however, that the the measure for loving and serving our every Lenten season stands as a beacon of hope in many Catholic Church is the single most neighbor. Each of us makes a difference of penance and communities, hope that does not so charitable institution in the United States in the lives and spirits of many beyond sacrifice gives way much radiate in the brick and mortar of and the world. The Catholic Church what can be truly appreciated. to the awesome joy a building as through the ministries and daily provides ministries and services With assurance of my prayers and of Easter. Beyond the services provided by your parish. Many of outreach to thousands of individuals blessings for everyone throughout the Archbishop Charles cross is the wonder of in our communities, including fellow and families. We do so because we archdiocese, I remain, C. Thompson the empty tomb and parishioners, are in need of various are Catholic. Anchored in word and encounter with the forms of medical care. Throughout this sacrament, especially the Eucharist, Sincerely yours in Christ, Risen Lord Jesus Christ. pandemic, the archdiocese and parishes service is the hallmark of our baptismal Given the drastic shutdown of so are continuing to provide service to the call to holiness and mission in the name many businesses and various places of poor and vulnerable, especially by way of Jesus Christ. work, many are already experiencing of food and shelter. This is a particularly Underlying the incredible charitable great economic, emotional and personal lonely and confusing time for those works of the Church is the commitment +Charles C. Thompson hardship. The prospect of enduring who have never found themselves in a of its members being good stewards Archbishop of Indianapolis Sigamos siendo buenos representantes de la Iglesia en esta época de crisis Queridos hermanos y hermanas en Cristo: a tomar su cauce nuevamente resulta que jamás se han encontrado en la situación de caridad de la Iglesia. Les ruego que bastante penoso. A menudo, los pobres y los de tener que pedir ayuda. Les doy las gracias continúen apoyando a su parroquia a ayudar ¡Saludos en Jesucristo, la piedra vulnerables son los más afectados por los en nombre de todos los que se benefician de a otros menos afortunados y que están angular! Aunque pareciera que no estragos de cualquier crisis. su generosidad. necesitados. El papa Francisco a menudo se hay luz al final del camino en estos Para quienes tienen la bendición de contar Los católicos no somos conocidos por refiere a las parábolas del Buen Samaritano tiempos en los que estamos llamados a con seguridad económica, les ruego que destacar nuestras buenas obras y éxitos, y (cf. Lc 10:29-37) y a la de los Talentos (cf. refugiarnos en nuestras casas y a practicar consideren ofrecer apoyo financiero a su raramente estos se convierten en el centro Mt 25:31-46) como la medida para amar el distanciamiento social para combatir parroquia en este momento crítico, si no lo de atención. Sin embargo, el hecho es que y servir a nuestro prójimo. Cada uno de el coronavirus, no olvidemos que cada han hecho aún. La Iglesia se erige como un la Iglesia Católica es la institución más nosotros puede hacer la diferencia en la vida temporada de Cuaresma penitencial y faro de esperanza en muchas comunidades, caritativa en Estados Unidos y en todo el y el espíritu de muchos, más allá de lo que sacrificial da paso a la maravillosa alegría esperanza que no irradia de la estructura mundo, y todos los días ofrece ministerios verdaderamente podamos apreciar. de la Pascua. Más allá de la cruz se halla el física de un edificio sino de los ministerios y servicios para llegar a miles de personas Con la certeza de mis oraciones y milagro del sepulcro vacío y el encuentro y los servicios que ofrece su parroquia. y familias. Y lo hacemos porque somos bendiciones para todos en la Arquidiócesis, con el Señor Jesucristo resucitado. Muchos en nuestras comunidades, incluidos católicos. Anclados en la Palabra y los Dado el cierre drástico de tantos negocios algunos compañeros parroquianos, necesitan sacramentos, especialmente la eucaristía, quedo de ustedes en Cristo, y diversos lugares de trabajo, muchos ya distintas formas de atención médica. A lo el servicio es el sello característico de están viviendo en carne propia grandes largo de esta pandemia, la arquidiócesis y las nuestro llamado bautismal a la santidad y dificultades económicas, emocionales parroquias continúan prestando servicios a nuestra misión en el nombre de Jesucristo. y personales. Para muchos hogares, el los pobres y los vulnerables, especialmente El compromiso de los fieles de ser prospecto de aguantar aproximadamente mediante refugio y comida. Es un momento buenos representantes y discípulos fieles +Charles C. Thompson otro mes hasta que la economía comience de gran confusión y de soledad para aquellos es lo que acentúa las increíbles obras Arzobispo de Indianápolis Television Masses The following channels and times show when Sunday Masses may be viewed over-the-air in different areas of the archdiocese:

Indianapolis: WHMB, 40.1, 9:30 a.m. Indianapolis: WNDY, 23, 6:30 a.m. Terre Haute: WTHI, 10.3, 10 a.m. Cincinnati: EKRC, 12.2, 8:30 a.m. Evansville: WEVV, 44.2, 6 a.m. Louisville: WBNA, 21, 7 a.m.

Correction In an article about the “Walking with Moms in Need” Year of Service in the April 3 issue of The Criterion, the website address for the ministry was misspelled. The address is walkingwithmoms.com. †

A.E. The Criterion NEWS FROM YOU! (ISSN 0574-4350) is The Do you have something exciting or published weekly except Criterion newsworthy you want to be considered the last week of December to be printed in The Criterion? and the first week of TheCriterion 04/10/20 Phone Numbers: E-mail us: January. Main office:...... 317-236-1570 [email protected] Moving? Advertising...... 317-236-1585 1400 N. Meri­dian St. We’ll be there waiting if you give us two weeks’ Toll free:...... 1-800-382-9836, ext. 1570 Indianapolis, IN 46202-2367 advance notice! Circulation:...... 317-236-1585 317-236-1570 Staff: Toll free:...... 1-800-382-9836, ext. 1585 800-382-9836 ext. 1570 Editor: Mike Krokos Name______Price: [email protected] $22.00 per year, 75 cents per copy Assistant Editor: John Shaughnessy E-mail______Reporter: Sean Gallagher Periodical postage paid at Postmaster: New Address______Send address changes to The Criterion, Reporter: Natalie Hoefer Indianapolis, IN. 1400 N. Meri­dian St., Indianapolis, IN 46202-2367 Graphic Designer / Online Editor: Brandon A. Evans Copyright © 2020 City______Executive Assistant: Ann Lewis Web site : www.CriterionOnline.com Criterion Press Inc. State/Zip______New Parish______E-mail: [email protected] POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: Effective Date______Published weekly except the last week of December and the first week of January. Criterion Press Inc. Note: If you are receiving duplicate copies please send both labels. Mailing address: 1400 N. Meri­dian St., Indianapolis, IN 46202-2367. Periodical postage paid 1400 N. Meridian St. at ­Indianapolis, IN. Copyright © 2020 Criterion Press Inc. ISSN 0574-4350. Indianapolis, IN 46202-2367 The Criterion • 1400 N. Meridian St. • Indianapolis, IN 46202-2367 The Criterion Friday, April 10, 2020 Page 3 Father John Beitans served archdiocesan parishes and Latvian Catholics

By Sean Gallagher margins of society may have been rooted pastor of his people,” Father Robeson Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in in his experience of isolation and alienation said. “He had a deep love for life, and Washington, from 1982-83. Father John Beitans, a retired priest early on in life. He was born in 1947 in a deep appreciation for the beauty of the After serving at St. Michael, Father of the Archdiocese of Indianapolis, a displaced persons camp in Geesthact, world. He genuinely cared about his Beitans ministered as associate pastor died on April 3 at St. Vincent Hospice Germany, to Latvian parents who fled their parishioners. of St. Christopher Parish in Indianapolis in Indianapolis. He home country during World War II. They “He would often talk about his from 1982-83. was 72. At the time emigrated to the U.S. in 1952, arriving at previous parishes with great fondness and In 1983, he became a pastor for the of his death, he was Ellis Island before settling in Terre Haute. became very close to quite a number of first time, leading St. Ann Parish in providing sacramental “He was a huge figure within the people over the years … who have often Indianapolis from 1982-88. assistance at Good Latvian community in Indiana and expressed their love for him.” Father Beitans then began a series of Shepherd Parish in throughout the world,” Father Robeson John Beitans was born on June 24, pastoral assignments in the New Albany Indianapolis. said. “He was frequently called upon 1947, to the late August and Adele (Spila) Deanery. He led St. John the Baptist Because of to travel all over the world to celebrate Beitans in Geesthacht, Germany. Parish in Starlight from 1988-99. He measures prohibiting sacraments for Latvian families who were After he and his parents emigrated to also served as administrator of St. Mary large public connected to him in some way and to the U.S., Father Beitans was educated Parish in Navilleton from 1995-96, and Fr. John Beitans gatherings due to celebrate Mass in the Latvian language.” in Terre Haute before becoming an of Most Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish the coronavirus Retired Father Joseph Rautenberg said archdiocesan seminarian. He received in Jeffersonville from 1998-99. Father pandemic, a private Father Beitans had an interest in various priestly formation at the former Saint Beitans also ministered as dean of the committal service was celebrated at the cultures around the world that may have Meinrad College in St. Meinrad, and at New Albany Deanery from 1996-99. priests’ circle at Calvary Cemetery in been rooted in his own experience as an Saint Meinrad Seminary and School of From 2000-10, Father Beitans served Indianapolis. A memorial Mass for Father immigrant. Theology, also in St. Meinrad. as pastor of St. Lawrence Parish in Beitans is expected to be celebrated at a “He traveled widely,” said Father Archbishop Paul C. Schulte ordained Indianapolis, while also ministering later time. Rautenberg, an ordination classmate of Father Beitans a priest on June 10, 1973, as chaplain of the Latvian Catholic Father Robert Robeson, pastor of Holy Father Beitans. “He had an extensive at Sacred Heart of Jesus Church in Terre Association from 2006-10. Name of Jesus Parish in Beech Grove and collection of books on foreign sites and Haute. Father Beitans celebrated a Mass His last assignment as a pastor was of administrator of Good Shepherd Parish in their history, art and culture.” of Thanksgiving the following day at the Holy Trinity Parish in Edinburg and Indianapolis, got to know Father Beitans Father Beitans’ thirst for knowledge church. St. Rose of Lima Parish in Franklin, well over the past few years while they was wide and varied. He had an interest His first pastoral assignment was as leading those two faith communities from served together at Good Shepherd. in music and astronomy, earned a pilot’s associate pastor of Most Sacred Heart of 2010-14. During that time, he also served “He was very conscious about how his license and even did skydiving. Jesus Parish in Jeffersonville, where he as director of the archdiocesan Office of relationship with individuals could impact “He was not afraid to try new things,” served from 1973-74. He then ministered Ecumenism. their faith and was conscientious about Father Rautenberg said. as associate pastor of St. Patrick Parish in In 2014, Father Beitans was appointed treating others with dignity and respect, Through it all, though, Father Beitans Terre Haute from 1974-77. sacramental minister of Good Shepherd especially those who were isolated or was dedicated to parish ministry. Ordained In 1977, Father Beitans became Parish in Indianapolis. He was granted lonely or alienated in some way,” Father an archdiocesan priest in 1973, Father associate pastor of St. Michael the retirement in 2017 while continuing to Robeson said. “He had a very tender heart Beitans spent 47 years of priestly life Archangel Parish in Indianapolis, provide sacramental assistance at Good and great compassion for those who were and ministry in faith communities across continuing there until 1982. Shepherd. on the margins. That was something I central and southern Indiana, while also at During that time, Father Beitans Memorial contributions may be sent to really respected about him.” times leading archdiocesan ministries. also served as archdiocesan director of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, 3001 Father Beitans’ concern for people on the “He was kind, generous and a faithful activities for the Basilica of the National E. 30th St., Indianapolis, IN 46218. † Amid COVID-19 pandemic, pope prays for homeless, cites newspaper photo VATICAN CITY (CNS)—During Sanctae Marthae, the pope said he was the Italian newspaper Il Messaggero that Calcutta to awaken in us a sense of his livestreamed daily morning Mass, struck by a photo in a local newspaper showed a temporary shelter for the homeless closeness to so many people in society Pope Francis prayed that the coronavirus of “homeless people lying in a parking in an outdoor parking lot in Las Vegas. who, in everyday life, live hidden but, like pandemic may awaken people’s lot under observation” that “highlight so According to an April 1 report in the homeless, in the moment of the crisis, consciences to the plight of the homeless. many hidden problems” in the world. The New York Times, city officials chose are living in this way.” At the start of the April 2 Mass in The picture that Pope Francis apparently to house the homeless in a parking lot In his homily, the pope reflected on the the chapel at his residence, the Domus referred to was published on April 2 by despite that fact that thousands of hotel day’s reading from the Book of Genesis rooms in Las Vegas are empty. and the Gospel of St. John. Both readings The shelter was set up due to the focused on the figure of Abraham and Easter Sunday Mass to be temporary closing of a Catholic Charities God’s covenant with him. shelter after a homeless man tested positive The pope said that God’s promise to livestreamed on archdiocesan website for COVID-19. However, city officials said make Abraham the father of many nations the Catholic Charities shelter was reopened highlights “the election, the promise and FOX59 in Indianapolis on April 3, The New York Times reported. and the covenant,” which are “the three “There are so many homeless people dimensions of the life of faith, the three The Archdiocese of Indianapolis is livestreaming its April 12 Easter Sunday today,” he said. “We ask St. Teresa of dimensions of Christian life.” † Mass at 11 a.m. on www.archindy.org from SS. Peter and Paul Cathedral in Indianapolis. The Mass will also be broadcast simultaneously on TV station WXIN FOX59, also in Indianapolis. Archbishop Charles C. Thompson will be the principal celebrant, and Father Patrick Beidelman, rector of SS. Peter and Paul Cathedral Parish, will be the homilist. † ShelbyShelby UpholsteringUpholstering && MillMill EndEnd WindowWindow FashionsFashions

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Opinion Archbishop: Closure of churches is necessary to keep all safe

Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ, are social by nature. As Christians, we Archbishop Charles C. Thompson, Publisher Greg A. Otolski, Associate Publisher are drawn to gather as a community Mike Krokos, Editor John F. Fink, Editor Emeritus I bid you grace, peace and hope in of believers. As Catholics, gathering Jesus Christ, crucified and risen! As for Mass is our greatest form of prayer the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and worship. The Eucharist is the continue to take a source and summit of our identity and Editorial great toll on our mission. lives, especially the Each bishop is responsible for his livelihood of so many, decision in this regard. With that in let us not allow our mind, if it will help to bring about spirits to succumb some understanding and appreciation to the virus or other for such action, I take this opportunity any enemy visible or to explain the reasons for churches invisible. remaining closed in the Archdiocese of In addition to Indianapolis. the great efforts First and foremost, please be of health care workers and first assured that the closing of churches responders, there are many unsung and the celebration of Mass without heroes continuing to provide care, community is a painful reality for assistance and encouragement to everyone. I know of no one among others. Though there has been a great the clergy or the laity who does not shift in the way in which we provide lament this sad and difficult hardship. spiritual and pastoral care, necessity Celebrating Mass in an empty cathedral has spawned much creativity in or church is a surreal experience, reaching out to individuals and families especially during the apex of the entire particularly through the Internet. liturgical year—namely, Holy Week, Many thanks to those who manage the Triduum and Easter. So much in our archdiocesan and parish websites, our Catholic culture has been disrupted and to the United States Conference during these special weeks such as fish of Catholic Bishops for providing so frys, Stations of the Cross and penance many wonderful resources. services. We can’t get these things There has been quite a bit of back from this year. Pope Francis speculation on social media about has reminded us that the Church is the closing of churches during the missionary by nature. As Church, pandemic in many dioceses throughout rooted in memory of the past and The Resurrection is depicted in a 15th-century painting by Italian painter Andrea the country and world. Some have assurance of divine promises made, we Mantegna. Easter, the chief feast in the liturgical calendars of all Christian churches, been supportive while others have must always be reading the “signs of commemorates Christ’s resurrection from the dead. Easter is on April 12 this year. been critical of these decisions. To be the times” in the present and looking (CNS photo/Bridgeman Images) sure, this is quite unprecedented in our toward the future of eternal life. We lifetime. It is most painful for all— have not lost what matters most; clergy and laity. As human beings, we See CLOSURE, page 15 Meditation for Holy Saturday Reflection/John Shaughnessy (This editorial was inspired by the the spittle I received in order to restore to Office of Readings, part of the Liturgy of you the life I once breathed into you. See the Hours, for Holy Saturday.) there the marks of the blows I received The unexpected invitation in order to refashion your warped nature The unexpected invitation came on a One of the great gifts of friendship Something strange is happening in my image. On my back, see the marks Good Friday, leading to an overwhelming comes when we reach a point where we today. There’s a great silence and of the scourging I endured to remove the response from teenagers and adults alike. realize we can’t do something by ourselves, stillness on Earth today because the burden of sin that weighs upon your back. The invitation when we know that our burdens are too King is asleep. God has died in the See my hands, nailed firmly to a tree, for was tied into a high much to bear alone—and then a friend flesh. He was crucified yesterday and you who once wickedly stretched out your school’s touching comes through for us, sharing the burden, hell trembles with fear. He has not yet hand to a tree.” dramatization of the lifting it from us. The greatest symbol risen from the dead. Jesus tells Adam that he, Jesus, slept Stations of the Cross of that gift of friendship is the cross. In By his death in the flesh, God has on the cross and a sword pierced his a few years ago. accepting the agony of his crucifixion, raised up all who have slept ever since side for Adam, who slept in paradise As each Station Christ showed he would do anything to the world began. while God brought forth Eve from his was shared, a student share our burdens, to lift them away for us. Jesus has gone to search for Adam, side. Now, he says, “My side has healed portrayed one of the The burdens connected with the our first parent, as a shepherd would the pain in yours. My sleep will rouse people who helped, coronavirus weigh constantly on us now. search for a sheep. Because of his death, you from your sleep in hell. The sword watched or harmed So do the fears associated with it, and the he has freed Adam and Eve and their that pierced me has sheathed the sword Christ on the path to his crucifixion— news that people we know are getting it and descendants. He now approaches them that was turned against you.” Simon of Cyrene, Veronica, the women dying from it. Focusing on these burdens, bearing the cross, the instrument and the Jesus bids Adam to leave this of Jerusalem, a Roman soldier, John the fears and tragedies, Pope Francis used his weapon that won him the victory. place called hell, but not the hell Apostle, the Blessed Mother. Each shared recent address to the world to offer a source At the sight of him, Adam strikes his of the damned; it’s where the dead how interacting with Christ in his journey of hope to people everywhere: that Christ breast in terror, but Jesus takes him by were awaiting their redemption, now to his death moved them, and even is still with us, and still willing to take our the hand and says, “Awake, O sleeper, accomplished by Jesus. changed them. burdens on his shoulders. and rise from the dead.” Jesus resumes his talk: “The enemy When the powerful presentation ended, “We have a hope,” Pope Francis said. Jesus then tells him, “I am your God, led you out of the earthly paradise. I will the unexpected invitation followed. “By his cross, we have been healed and who for your sake have become your not restore you to that paradise, but I will The high school students and adults embraced so that nothing and no one son. Out of love for you and for your enthrone you in heaven. I forbade you the who had been watching were invited to can separate us from his redeeming love. descendants I now by my own authority tree that was only a symbol of life, but see, approach the full-size cross and attach In the midst of isolation, when we are command all who are held in bondage to I who am life itself am now one with you.” their handwritten notes to Christ on it—to suffering from a lack of tenderness and come forth, all who are in darkness to be As a result of Jesus’ passion and ask him for anything. The crowd, mostly chances to meet up—and we experience enlightened, all who are sleeping to arise. death, everything has changed. God tells teenagers, kept approaching the cross in the loss of so many things—let us once “I order you, O sleeper, to awake. I Adam, “I appointed cherubim to guard waves. again listen to the proclamation that saves did not create you to be held a prisoner you as slaves are guarded, but now I Many asked God to protect their friends us: he is risen and living by our side.” in hell. Rise from the dead, for I am make them worship you as God. The and families. Some asked for forgiveness of If you had the opportunity, what the life of the dead. Rise up, work of throne formed by cherubim awaits you, their sins. Others asked for blessings for the message would you leave for Christ on my hands, you who were created in my its bearers swift and eager. The bridal poor, the homeless, the suffering and people the cross? What fear would you ask him image. Rise, let us leave this place, for chamber is adorned, the banquet is ready, who have lost loved ones. Then there were to help you overcome? you are in me and I am in you; together the eternal dwelling places are prepared, the more individual requests. One asked for During this unsettling time, let us we form only one person and we cannot the treasure houses of all good things lie prayers “for those who struggle with who accept Christ’s invitation to bring our be separated.” open. The kingdom of heaven has been they are.” Another pleaded for “my dad’s burdens and our fears to him, knowing God reminds Adam that it was for his prepared for you from all eternity.” faith. He’s falling away from God and his he will lift us up, knowing that the sake, and that of his descendants, that Jesus accomplished our redemption family, and it scares me.” Another simply heartbreaking suffering of Good Friday he, whose home is above the heavens, by obeying the will of his Father and noted, “Help me.” and the eternal promise of Easter Sunday humbled himself and took the form of proved that “God so loved the world that By the time the last teenager affixed a show us how much he loves us. a slave, became human for the sake of he gave his only Son, so that everyone plea, the wooden cross was transformed humans. who believes in him might not perish by the various colors of the notes: orange, (John Shaughnessy is the assistant editor He says, “For the sake of you, who left but might have eternal life.” blue, yellow, lime green and hot pink. of The Criterion and the author of Then a garden, I was betrayed in a garden, and I Even more, the trust and hope of the Something Wondrous Happened: unlikely was crucified in a garden. See on my face —John F. Fink students became attached to the cross— encounters and unexpected graces in and the sacrifice it represents. search of a friendship with God.) † The Criterion Friday, April 10, 2020 Page 5 ARCHBISHOP/ARZOBISPO CHARLES C. THOMPSON

hrist C the Cornerstone

Jesus shows his love in his sacrifice for us “Yet it was our infirmities that he we read in the Letter to the Hebrews and torture of Good Friday, or to die the dedicate ourselves to our own comfort bore, our sufferings that he endured, (Heb 4:14-16; 5:7-9): death of a criminal. and satisfaction. Jesus’ humility teaches while we thought of him as stricken, “In the days when Christ was in the What we recall today is Jesus’ us that true love is found in sacrifice as one smitten by God and afflicted. flesh, free decision to suffer and die for our and that true happiness comes not But he was pierced for our offenses, he offered prayers and supplications sins—in spite of his very human desire when we cling to life’s blessings and crushed for our sins; upon him was the with loud cries and tears to avoid this suffering and humiliation. comforts but when we share them chastisement that makes us whole, by to the one who was able to save him It is a painful memory that should generously with others. his stripes we were healed” (Is 53:4-5). from death, cause each of us to feel remorse for Good Friday gives us the opportunity and he was heard because of his our part in this day of sadness—for our to rejoice in spite of our sadness, and to Good Friday is an unusual day in reverence. contributions to the burden of sin that praise God for his Son’s humility and the Church year. It is a day of great Son though he was, he learned our Lord carried on his shoulders as he for the great gift of his self-giving love, sadness, commemorating the day when obedience from what he suffered; made his way to his crucifixion. even as we mourn his cruel and utterly our Lord suffered and died for us. But it and when he was made perfect, But the paradox of Good Friday is undeserving condemnation and death is also a day for rejoicing, the day when he became the source of eternal that the Via Dolorosa is not a dead end. on a cross. we recall how much Jesus loved us and salvation for all who obey him” Instead, it is a road that opens the way Good Friday celebrates the humility how much he sacrificed to set us free. (Heb 5:7-9). to salvation and to joy. And so, without of God that paradoxically (by our Good Friday is a day of mourning In the ultimate act of humility, Jesus ever forgetting the bitter tears that were earthly standards) has exalted the name and it is a day of silence, but it is also freely accepted death on a cross— shed on this day by Mary, and by those of Jesus Christ above all other names— the day when the Light of the World one of the cruelest forms of capital few who loved him enough to stand by so that at this name every knee should shatters the darkness of sin and death. punishment ever invented—in order to him at the foot of the cross, we rejoice bend and every tongue confess that On Good Friday, the sun breaks sacrifice his life for us. and thank God for the great gift of this Jesus is Lord to the glory of God the through, opening up our dark and Good Friday is the day when we day of remembrance and of joy. Father! dreary world to the joyful light of rejoice in the humility of God. It is the Jesus’ humility, his sacrifice on May we always remember Christ’s heaven. The silence of Good Friday day when the Church reminds us that the cross, has something profoundly sacrifice on the Cross, which has won prepares us for the joyful songs of the the freedom, the love and the happiness important to teach us. The way to our salvation and shown us the way to Easter Vigil—the Exultet and the Great that every human being seeks is made happiness is the Way of the Cross. happiness and peace. May his cruel, Alleluia that proclaim Christ’s victory possible only through the miracle of That means that we will never find true undeserved suffering, and our songs over sin and death. self-giving love. happiness by seeking wealth, power, of bitter mourning, lead us to Easter Good Friday celebrates the triumph The Son of God did not have to success or fame. We will never discover joy and prepare us to sing once again: of humility over self-centered pride. As empty himself to accept the bitter pain the freedom and love we desire if we Alleluia! Christ is risen! †

Jesús nos demuestra su amor en su sacrificio por nosotros

“Ciertamente Él llevó nuestras El Viernes Santo celebra el triunfo morir como un criminal. humildad de Jesús nos enseña que el enfermedades,y cargó con nuestros de la humildad sobre el orgullo Lo que conmemoramos hoy es la amor verdadero se encuentra en el dolores.con todo, nosotros lo tuvimos egoísta. Tal como leemos en la Carta a decisión libre de Jesús de sufrir y sacrificio y que la alegría verdadera por azotado,por herido de Dios los Hebreos (Heb 4:14-16; 5:7-9): morir por nuestros pecados, a pesar viene no cuando nos aferramos a las y afligido. Pero Él fue herido por “Cristo, en los días de Su carne, de su deseo muy humano de evitar el bendiciones y comodidades de la nuestras transgresiones,molido por habiendo ofrecido oraciones y sufrimiento y la humillación. Es un vida, sino cuando las compartimos nuestras iniquidades.El castigo, por súplicas recuerdo doloroso que debería evocar generosamente con los demás. nuestra paz, cayó sobre Él,Y por con gran clamor y lágrimas remordimiento en nosotros en este El Viernes Santo nos ofrece la Sus heridas hemos sido sanados” al que lo podía librar de la muerte, día tan triste por nuestro aporte al oportunidad de regocijarnos a pesar (Is 53:4-5). fue oído a causa de Su temor pecado que cargó nuestro Señor en de nuestra tristeza y de alabar a reverente. los hombros camino a su crucifixión. Dios por la humildad de su Hijo y El Viernes Santo es un día inusual Aunque era Hijo, aprendió Pero la paradoja del Viernes el maravilloso regalo de su amor en el año eclesiástico, ya que está obediencia Santo es que el Vía Crucis no es un desinteresado, aunque lloremos su cargado de una enorme tristeza al por lo que padeció; callejón sin salida sino un camino condena cruel y totalmente injusta de recordar el día en el que nuestro y habiendo sido hecho perfecto, que se abre hacia la salvación y la muerte en una cruz. Señor padeció y murió por nosotros. vino a ser fuente de eterna salvación alegría. Así pues, sin olvidar jamás El Viernes Santo se celebra Pero también es un día de júbilo en para todos los que le obedecen” las amargas lágrimas que derramaron la humildad de Dios que, el que conmemoramos cuánto nos (Heb 5:7-9). hoy María y los pocos que lo amaban paradójicamente (según nuestros amó Jesús y su gran sacrificio para En un acto de humildad suprema, lo suficiente para quedarse con él al estándares terrenales), ha exaltado el liberarnos. Jesús aceptó voluntariamente la pie de la cruz, nos alegramos y le nombre de Jesucristo por encima de El Viernes Santo es un día de muerte en la cruz, una de las formas damos gracias a Dios por el inmenso todos los demás para que con solo duelo y de silencio, pero también es de pena capital más crueles que se regalo de este día de conmemoración nombrarlo toda rodilla se doble y el día en el que la Luz del Mundo haya inventado, para sacrificar su y júbilo. toda lengua confiese que Jesús es el destruye las tinieblas del pecado y de vida por nosotros. La humildad y el sacrificio Señor para la gloria del Padre. la muerte. El Viernes Santo es cuando nos de Jesús en la cruz nos enseñan Que siempre recordemos el El Viernes Santo sale el sol para regocijamos en la humildad de Dios, algo muy importante: el camino sacrificio de Cristo en la cruz que iluminar nuestro mundo oscuro el día en que la Iglesia nos recuerda a la felicidad es el camino de la conquistó nuestra salvación y nos y tenebroso, y mostrarnos la luz que la libertad, el amor y la felicidad cruz. Esto significa que jamás mostró el camino hacia la felicidad jubilosa del cielo. El silencio del que busca cada ser humano solo es encontraremos la verdadera alegría al y la paz. Que su sufrimiento cruel Viernes Santo nos prepara para posible a través del milagro del amor buscar la riqueza, el poder, el éxito e inmerecido y nuestros cánticos de los himnos de alegría de la Vigilia desinteresado. o la fama. Jamás descubriremos la amargo dolor nos guíen a la alegría Pascual, el pregón pascual y el El Hijo de Dios no tenía que libertad y el amor que deseamos de la Pascua y nos preparen para Aleluya que proclaman la victoria de entregarse y aceptar el amargo dolor si nos dedicamos a nuestra propia cantar una vez más: ¡Aleluya! ¡Cristo Cristo sobre el pecado y la muerte. y la tortura del Viernes Santo, ni comodidad y satisfacción. La ha resucitado! † Page 6 The Criterion Friday, April 10, 2020 Pope: Life, measured by love, is meant to serve others VATICAN CITY (CNS)—With Then, on the cross, Jesus asked God a small procession down the vast “the most excruciating question, ‘Why? and empty central nave of St. Peter’s Why did you, too, abandon me?’ ” Basilica, Pope Francis began the first (Mt 27:46) of a series of Holy Week liturgies “Why did all this take place?” the celebrated without the presence of the pope asked. “It was done for our sake, to faithful from the general public. serve us.” Palm Sunday Mass, the liturgy that “God saved us by serving us,” and by begins with a commemoration of Jesus taking upon himself all the punishment entering Jerusalem among a jubilant for people’s sins “without complaining, crowd, was celebrated on April 5 but with the humility, patience and without the usual outdoor procession obedience of a servant, and purely out of and blessing of the faithful’s palm love,” he said. fronds. “The Lord served us to the point of A small number of pews were set experiencing the most painful situations out, with 13 people—each holding a of those who love—betrayal and woven palm frond—sitting one per pew; abandonment,” he said. just eight people sang in the choir. The The reason, the pope said, was so basilica was decorated with a potted “when we have our back to the wall, olive tree and greenery. Also displayed when we find ourselves at a dead end, were the “Salus Populi Romani” (“health with no light and no way of escape, of the Roman people”) icon and what when it seems that God himself is not Romans call the “Miraculous Crucifix,” responding, we should remember that normally housed in the Church of we are not alone.” St. Marcellus; over the centuries, Jesus experienced total abandonment, both the icon and crucifix have been he said, “in order to be one with us in associated with miraculous interventions everything. He did it for me, for you, to Pope Francis holds palm fronds celebrates Palm Sunday Mass in St. Peter’s Basilica at the to save the city and its people. say to us, ‘Do not be afraid, you are not Vatican on April 5. The Mass was celebrated without the presence of the public as Italy battles the Broadcast and livestreamed over a alone. I experienced all your desolation coronavirus. (CNS photo/Paul Haring) wide range of media, the pope preached in order to be ever close to you.’ in his homily about the betrayal and “Today, in the tragedy of a pandemic, faithful are also called to “refuse to level, the pope called on young people abandonment Jesus experienced before in the face of the many false securities betray him for whom we were created to not be afraid of devoting their lives to and during his Passion. that have now crumbled, in the face of and not abandon what really matters in God and others, and putting “your lives He was betrayed by a disciple who so many hopes betrayed, in the sense our lives.” on the line.” “sold him” and one who denied him, of abandonment that weighs upon our “We were put in this world to love “Dear friends, look at the real heroes betrayed by people who sang “hosanna” hearts, Jesus says to each one of us, him and our neighbors,” the pope said. who come to light in these days: they are to him and then shouted “crucify him,” ‘Courage, open your heart to my love. “Everything else passes away; only this not famous, rich and successful people; betrayed by “the religious institution You will feel the consolation of God remains. rather, they are those who are giving that unjustly condemned him and by the who sustains you,’ ” Pope Francis said. “The tragedy we are experiencing themselves in order to serve others,” he political institution that washed its hands Inspired by the Lord’s example of summons us to take seriously the things said. of him,” the pope said. love and service despite the cost, the that are serious and not to be caught up “Life is a gift we receive only when in those that matter less; to rediscover we give ourselves away, and our deepest that life is of no use if not used to serve joy comes from saying yes to love, others,” he said. “For life is measured by without ifs and buts. As Jesus did for love.” us,” he said. So with the start of a Holy Week Before praying the Angelus, the pope with people in their homes, “let us stand recalled how young people from Panama before the crucified one, the fullest were supposed to have handed over the measure of God’s love for us, and before World Youth Day cross to a delegation the God who serves us to the point of from Lisbon, Portugal, which will host giving his life, and let us ask for the the event in 2022. That ceremony now grace to live in order to serve.” will be held on Nov. 22, the feast of The pope asked that people reach out Christ the King. to those who are suffering and most in The pope also greeted all those need, and be concerned less with “what who had followed the Mass through we lack, but what good we can do for the media and asked families and others.” individuals who cannot participate in “Loving, praying, forgiving, caring Holy Week liturgies in person to pray at for others, in the family and in society, home even with the help of the Internet all this can certainly be difficult,” he and other means. said. “It can feel like a ‘via crucis.’ But Be spiritually close to those who are the path of service is the victorious sick, their families and those who are and life-giving path by which we were selflessly taking care of them, the pope saved.” said, and praying for the deceased, he Pope Francis celebrates Palm Sunday Mass in St. Peter’s Basilica at the Vatican on April 5. The Mass Also marking the day when World said, “everyone is present in our heart, was celebrated without the presence of the public as Italy battles the coronavirus. (CNS photo/Paul Haring) Youth Day is celebrated on a diocesan our memory, our prayer.” †

St. Joseph Parish, Shelbyville, 3 p.m. Several archdiocesan parishes (bilingual) • www.facebook.com/stjoeshelby to livestream Divine Mercy St. Paul Parish, Tell City, and St. Mark Parish, Perry County, 10 a.m. CDT/11 Sunday services on April 19 a.m. EDT • bit.ly/2UBa6L9 (YouTube) Criterion staff report prayer services on April 19 reported to The Criterion as of April 6 are as SS. Francis and Clare of Assisi Parish, Parishes throughout the Archdiocese of follows: Greenwood, 10 a.m. Indianapolis will livestream Divine Mercy • zoom.us/j/712954744 Sunday services on April 19. All Saints Parish, Dearborn County, • Phone: 312-626-6799, enter meeting The original Divine Mercy painting by St. John Paul II instituted the 3 p.m. ID 712954744 (audio only) † Eugeniusz Kazimirowski. (Wikipedia Commons photo) observance of Divine Mercy Sunday Access: on the first Sunday after Easter. The • bit.ly/2w4yKdI (YouTube) Announcements for couples celebrating 50, 55, 60, 65, 70 or more years of devotion is based on the visions of • shorturl.at/mnpX5 (Facebook) VIPs marriage are accepted. Go to bit.ly/2M4MQms or call 317-236-1585. St. Faustina Kowalska, a member of the • twitter.com/AllParish (Twitter) Sisters of Our Lady of Mercy who died in 1938. Holy Family Parish, New Albany, Mike and Donna (Etherington) Additionally, the Divine Mercy 3 p.m. Amrhein, members St. Louis, Batesville, novena prior to the feast day begins on • www.facebook.com/HolyFamilyCatholic celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary Good Friday, which is on April 10 this on April 4. year. Prince of Peace Parish, Madison, 3 p.m. The couple was married in St. Jude, To learn more about the novena • shorturl.at/gCOX4 (Facebook) Indianapolis on April 4, 1970. and the possible plenary indulgence They have four children: Christina and promises connected to St. Ann Parish, Indianapolis, 2:15 p.m. Ashley, Sarah Foley, Andrew and David Divine Mercy Sunday, go to Ways to access: Amrhein. They have eight grandchildren. † www.thedivinemercy.org. • www.facebook.com/stannindy Livestreamed Divine Mercy Sunday • www.st-ann-rcindy.org The Criterion Friday, April 10, 2020 Page 7 The Face of Mercy By Daniel Conway Pope Francis reflects on storms caused by the coronavirus pandemic “The Lord asks us and, in the midst of Here is how Pope Francis describes times before has Jesus demonstrated the before us. We deprive ourselves of the our tempest, invites us to reawaken and this situation: depths of his love for them? How often antibodies we need to confront adversity. put into practice that solidarity and The disciples are terrified, but Jesus is has he performed miracles of healing In this storm, the façade of those hope capable of giving strength, support sleeping calmly in the stern, in the part and hope in the most seemingly hopeless stereotypes with which we camouflaged and meaning to these hours when of the boat that sinks first. In spite of the situations? No wonder when he wakes our egos, always worrying about our everything seems to be floundering. tempest, he sleeps on soundly, trusting up, after calming the wind and the image, has fallen away, uncovering once The Lord awakens so as to reawaken in the Father; this is the only time in the waters, Jesus reproaches the disciples’ more that (blessed) common belonging, and revive our Easter faith. We have Gospels we see Jesus sleeping. When he lack of faith in him. of which we cannot be deprived: our an anchor: by his cross we have been wakes up, after calming the wind and The Holy Father draws the parallel belonging as brothers and sisters. saved. We have a rudder: by his cross the waters, he turns to the disciples in a between this situation in St. Mark’s The “antibodies” that Pope Francis we have been redeemed. We have a reproaching voice: “Why are you afraid? Gospel and the sudden, tempestuous speaks about combat the spiritual hope: by his cross we have been healed Have you no faith?” storm that threatens the world with the maladies that confront us in this time and embraced so that nothing and no More than simply being afraid, coronavirus pandemic. He says: of worldwide crisis. Just as we struggle one can separate us from his redeeming which the pope says is natural under the The storm exposes our vulnerability to develop immune systems, vaccines love” (Pope Francis, Urbi et Orbi circumstances, the disciples lash out at and uncovers those false and superfluous and drugs that can cure the physical message, March 27, 2020). Jesus saying, “Teacher, do you not care certainties around which we have illnesses we are threatened by, we must if we perish?” (Mk 4:38). In their self- constructed our daily schedules, our also achieve a robust spiritual health and On March 27, Pope Francis stood centered terror, they accuse Jesus of not projects, our habits and priorities. vitality that is sufficient to prevent anxiety in the empty square outside St. Peter’s caring about them. “One of the things It shows us how we have allowed to and despair from overwhelming us. Basilica and proclaimed “to the city that hurts us and our families most,” the become dull and feeble the very things The cure for what ails us spiritually and the world” (“urbi et orbi”) that, Holy Father points out, “is when we hear that nourish, sustain and strengthen our is trust in the Lord’s healing power. We even in the midst of the coronavirus it said: ‘Do you not care about me?’ It lives and our communities. The tempest dare not doubt that he cares for us, lest pandemic, our hope is found in the is a phrase that wounds and unleashes lays bare all our prepackaged ideas we give up all hope. “Lord, you are calm, healing power of Jesus Christ. The storms in our hearts.” and forgetfulness of what nourishes our calling to us, calling us to faith,” the pope’s message reflects on a reading Because Jesus cares so deeply about people’s souls; all those attempts that Holy Father says. “Which is not so much from St. Mark’s Gospel (Mk 4:35-41), his disciples, and all of us, the disciples’ anesthetize us with ways of thinking and believing that you exist, but coming to which recalls the time that Jesus and his childishly immature question, “Do acting that supposedly “save” us, but you and trusting in you.” disciples were in a boat when a sudden, you not care if we perish?” is not only instead prove incapable of putting us in turbulent storm threatened to upend the hurtful and inappropriate, it is a sign of touch with our roots and keeping alive (Daniel Conway is a member of The boat and drown them all. the weakness of their faith. How many the memory of those who have gone Criterion’s editorial committee.) †

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

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

El rostro de la misericordia/Daniel Conway El papa Francisco reflexiona sobre las tormentas que ha ocasionado la pandemia del coronavirus “El Señor nos interpela y, en medio de de la siguiente forma: les ha demostrado Jesús la profundidad el maquillaje de esos estereotipos con los nuestra tormenta, nos invita a despertar Mientras los discípulos, lógicamente, de su amor por ellos? ¿Cuántas veces que disfrazábamos nuestros egos siempre y a activar esa solidaridad y esperanza estaban alarmados y desesperados, [Jesús] ha realizado milagros de sanación y pretenciosos de querer aparentar; y dejó capaz de dar solidez, contención y permanecía en popa, en la parte de la barca esperanza en situaciones que aparentan al descubierto, una vez más, esa (bendita) sentido a estas horas donde todo parece que primero se hunde. A pesar del ajetreo ser desesperanzadas? No es de extrañar, pertenencia común de la que no podemos naufragar. El Señor se despierta para y el bullicio, dormía tranquilo, confiado en pues, que al despertarse y luego de ni queremos evadirnos; esa pertenencia despertar y avivar nuestra fe pascual. el Padre—es la única vez en el Evangelio calmar los vientos y las mareas, Jesús les de hermanos. Tenemos un ancla: en su Cruz hemos que Jesús aparece durmiendo. Después de reproche su falta de fe en Él. La “inmunidad” de la que habla el sido salvados. Tenemos un timón: en su que lo despertaran y que calmara el viento y El Santo Padre compara la situación papa Francisco es para combatir los Cruz hemos sido rescatados. Tenemos las aguas, se dirigió a los discípulos con un del Evangelio según san Marcos con males que nos azotan en esta época de una esperanza: en su Cruz hemos sido tono de reproche: “¿Por qué tenéis miedo? la tormenta repentina y violenta que crisis mundial. Así como luchamos para sanados y abrazados para que nadie ni ¿Aún no tenéis fe?” amenaza el mundo con la pandemia del fortalecer nuestro sistema inmunitario, nada nos separe de su amor redentor” Más que estar sencillamente coronavirus. Expresa: crear vacunas y medicamentos que puedan (Papa Francisco, mensaje Urbi et Orbi, atemorizados que, según el papa, es natural La tempestad desenmascara nuestra curar las enfermedades físicas que nos 27 de marzo de 2020). dadas las circunstancias, los discípulos lo vulnerabilidad y deja al descubierto amenazan, también debemos alcanzar atacan verbalmente diciéndole: “Maestro, esas falsas y superfluas seguridades con un estado de salud y vitalidad espiritual El 27 de marzo el papa Francisco se ¿no te importa que perezcamos?” las que habíamos construido nuestras que sea lo suficientemente fuerte como paró delante de una plaza vacía en el atrio (Mc 4:38). En su terror egoísta acusan agendas, nuestros proyectos, rutinas y para prevenir que la ansiedad y la de la Basílica de San Pedro y proclamó a Jesús de que no se preocupa por ellos. prioridades. Nos muestra cómo habíamos desesperación se apoderen de nosotros. “a la ciudad y el mundo” (“urbi et orbi”) “Entre nosotros, en nuestras familias, dejado dormido y abandonado lo que La cura de lo que nos aqueja que, incluso en medio de la pandemia lo que más duele—señala el papa—es alimenta, sostiene y da fuerza a nuestra espiritualmente es la confianza en del coronavirus, nuestra esperanza se cuando escuchamos decir: “¿Es que no vida y a nuestra comunidad. La tempestad el poder sanador del Señor. No nos encuentra en la calma y el poder sanador te importo?” Es una frase que lastima y pone al descubierto todos los intentos atrevamos a dudar que Él nos cuida de Jesucristo. El mensaje del papa es una desata tormentas en el corazón”. de encajonar y olvidar lo que nutrió el porque perderemos toda la esperanza. reflexión sobre la lectura del Evangelio Puesto que Jesús se preocupa tan alma de nuestros pueblos; todas esas “Señor, nos diriges una llamada, una según san Marcos (Mc 4:35-41), que profundamente por sus discípulos y tentativas de anestesiar con aparentes llamada a la fe» dice el Santo Padre. Que recuerda el tiempo en el que Jesús y todos nosotros, la pregunta infantil rutinas “salvadoras,” incapaces de apelar no es tanto creer que Tú existes, sino ir sus discípulos estaban en un barco y, de los discípulos “¿no te importa que a nuestras raíces y evocar la memoria de hacia ti y confiar en ti.” repentinamente, una tormenta turbulenta perezcamos?” no solo resulta dolorosa nuestros ancianos, privándonos así de la amenazó con voltearlo y hundirlos a todos. e inadecuada, sino que es un signo de inmunidad necesaria para hacerle frente a (Daniel Conway es integrante del comité El Santo Padre describe la situación la debilidad de su fe. ¿Cuántas veces la adversidad. Con la tempestad, se cayó editorial de The Criterion.) † Page 8 The Criterion Friday, April 10, 2020 Superintendent answers questions related to closing of schools

By John Shaughnessy activities ranging from spring theater productions to spring sports. Share Gina Fleming knew that students, your thoughts about the seniors. ‘The most important message I would like to teachers and parents would have questions A. “On behalf of Archbishop [Charles share is that our Lord and Savior loves each and concerns when Indiana Gov. Eric C.] Thompson and all of us in the Office of us so very much that he took up his cross Holcomb announced on April 2 that all of Catholic Schools, I wish to share Indiana schools will stay closed for the our disappointment for our seniors. so that we may each get to celebrate eternal remainder of the 2019-20 academic year. Recognizing that this pandemic has life in heaven with our Father, his Son and As the superintendent of the 68 affected some significant milestones yet the Holy Spirit. I can think of nothing more Catholic schools in the archdiocese, to be experienced and knowing how these uplifting, inspiring and true.’ Fleming knew there would be same events and experiences have been disappointment and even heartache among valued for generations, there really are —Gina Fleming, archdiocesan superintendent of Catholic the high school seniors who will miss out not words that can adequately express our schools on such experiences as going to prom or empathy. participating in extracurricular activities “That being said, it is often in ranging from spring theater productions to the most unexpected situations and spring sports. experiences that we learn a great deal their lives as role models. By remaining Q. Christians will celebrate Easter She also knew there would be about ourselves, about our relationship calm and ensuring that conversations this weekend, a time of rejoicing for questions from students, parents and with God, and about the world around on this matter are based on factual followers of Christ. This is a tough families about high school graduation us. information and logical reasoning, our period for all people, and the news ceremonies and efforts to feed children “I pray that our seniors are open to children will be much better informed and about schools adds to these tough times. who rely on federal government food creating new and different milestones will be able to use this as a true learning What Easter message would you like to programs. that possibly only they will experience— opportunity. share with students, staff and parents The mother of two children also milestones that speak to their trust in “This is a good time to reinforce the at this time? prepared to answer questions from God, their resilience, their desire for importance of hand-washing and other A. “We must remind ourselves that parents about how to continue to social justice and their gratitude for the hygiene practices as well as proper the early Christians often had to stay motivate their children about learning, many gifts and talents with which they responses to coughing, sneezing, food in hiding to ensure their livelihood. For how to help them make the most of have been blessed.” preparation, etc. It is also important centuries, the only communication was family time together, and also how to to point out that healthy individuals, person-to-person. We are blessed to be help their children as Indiana heads into Q. Have any decisions been made particularly their age, who have able to celebrate our Christian Catholic one of the crucial stages of the regarding high school graduations, contracted COVID-19 have been able to faith openly and joyously. coronavirus crisis in the state whether they will take place in recover. “We are also blessed to have and the country. any form at all? “Finally, I can think of no better way to technology that allows us to connect Fleming shared her A. “Leadership teams at find peace and comfort than in celebrating with others across the world. Just last thoughts and insights on all each high school are working the Eucharist, participating in eucharistic week, my family celebrated Mass these areas in an interview on plans for graduations for adoration, praying and vigilantly working with our pastor and others through with The Criterion. Here our high school seniors. The to grow deeper in relationship with God. livestreaming, daily Masses with is an edited version of that Office of Catholic Schools will I believe it was St. Francis of Assisi who several other priests across the interview. work with all Catholic schools said, ‘Pray twice as often as you fret.’ archdiocese, and we experienced an to ensure that the Class of That’s good, sound advice.” hour with Pope Francis. Q. What was your 2020 experiences a beautiful “In his extraordinary message reaction to the governor’s Baccalaureate Mass as a Q. Many Catholic school students [on March 27 about the pandemic], announcement? milestone of their final rely on the free-lunch program from Pope Francis reminded us, ‘Many A. “The governor’s days in our Catholic the federal government for nutritious fathers, mothers, grandparents, and announcement was not a schools. meals during their school day. When teachers are showing our children, in surprise to our team at the “There will not be e-learning began in mid-March, there small everyday gestures, how to face Office of Catholic Schools. large group gatherings were plans in place to continue to up to and navigate a crisis by adjusting While we miss our students for either, but school provide these meals to children. How their routines, lifting their gaze and greatly and know that the best leaders are thinking have those plans worked so far, and fostering prayer.’ option is typically our Catholic creatively about what is the future of those plans going “The trials and tribulations faced at this school experience in full, the ways to make these forward? time are very real and difficult, yet when Archdiocese of Indianapolis is committed special experiences as personal and A. “Students and children 18 years we trust in God and put these sacrifices to the safety of all those we serve. memorable as possible for the seniors, and younger have meal options in every in his hands, he is sure to help us. This is “Our hope is that this extended time their families and loved ones. More corner of the archdiocese. Many of these an opportunity for each of us to offer up period allows for Indiana residents to get details will be shared when they become options are provided in our very own our own hardships as a Lenten sacrifice past the highest transmittal period for solidified.” schools, while others are provided through for all those afflicted with COVID-19 and COVID-19 in our state and then effectively the local public school and/or community for those who have been entrusted to care ‘flatten the curve.’ As Governor Holcomb Q. According to government and centers. for them. has said, all of us are ‘in this together.’ ” medical projections, Indiana is heading “There is a great need for continued “The most important message I would toward a period soon where the impact support of local food pantries. However, in like to share is that our Lord and Savior Q. Among the impacts this has of the coronavirus crisis will intensify many cases, the majority of daily volunteers loves each of us so very much that he on students and staffs, there is the in the state. What advice would you are those who are most vulnerable to this took up his cross so that we may each get reality of how it’s particularly hard give to parents for handling the virus. Therefore, members of our Church to celebrate eternal life in heaven with in some ways on high school seniors. concerns of children who are worried are encouraged to reach out to their local our Father, his Son and the Holy Spirit. They will miss out on such traditions and even fearful of that reality? Society of St. Vincent DePaul or other food I can think of nothing more uplifting, as graduation ceremonies and A. “As with all things, young people sources for those less fortunate to see if inspiring and true.” prom, plus a host of extracurricular are consistently watching the adults in assistance is needed.” See SCHOOLS, page 15 Fleming praises educators, shares advice on motivating students By John Shaughnessy front of their minds and hearts. Teachers “If your child cannot provide home struggle to get everyone online need to trust themselves as highly qualified responses, you can certainly jump in,” simultaneously, teachers may decide As a former teacher and as a mother professionals who have grit, stamina and Fleming advised. “The more relevant that due dates can be flexible so that the of two children, Gina Fleming knows the skills necessary to powerfully and and meaningful the learning is, the more family can easily adjust their schedules,” the disappointment that most students positively impact students’ lives, even if it likely your child will embrace it and Fleming said. and teachers felt when Indiana Gov. Eric must be accomplished remotely.” store it in long-term memory.” “Another situation that has been Holcomb announced on April 2 that all Fleming also shared her thoughts on The superintendent also had high encountered results from the fact that Indiana schools will stay closed for the how parents can help motivate their children praise for the efforts of Catholic school not all families have accessibility to remainder of the academic year. to continue to learn during this time. educators for “always keeping young the Internet at home. Schools have At the same time, the superintendent “As our students grow, the hope is people and their needs at the forefront of worked very hard to accommodate these of the 68 Catholic schools in the that they begin to own their learning and decision making.” families, even going so far as to seek archdiocese believes there are find joy in the process of learning as “Countless messages from our Wi-Fi options that could be covered for considerable opportunities for students, much as the knowledge itself,” Fleming teachers can be found online, echoing the remainder of the school year.” teachers and parents to make the most noted. “When your child needs a little the desire to interact with their Fleming also praised the efforts of of the remaining school year as students extra motivation, it can be helpful to take children—the students that they have families and school communities to keep continue their education at home. a break, take a walk together or perform come to know and love as part of their their faith at the forefront during Lent “My hope is that young people will some other task together.” school family,” Fleming said. “The and Holy Week. be inspired by the educators, Church She also offered a few questions that personal phone calls, online tutoring “Communities such as St. Luke [the leaders, first responders and medical parents can ask their children to continue support and innovative teaching Evangelist], Our Lady of Lourdes and professionals who have all stepped up to motivate them. strategies being employed are all St. Barnabas [all in Indianapolis] have in heroic ways to give of themselves for • What have you accomplished this positively impacting young people.” created their own Stations of the Cross for the betterment of others—that our young week that made you proud? She also noted that educators have the parish and the neighborhoods nearby. people will be inspired to seek the ways • What is your goal for today? strived to be flexible in response to the “To see students and parents keeping in which God is calling them to best use Tomorrow? needs and challenges that some families the focus on Christ’s passion, death and their gifts to honor and glorify him. • How do you believe you might use and students face at home. resurrection illustrates how well parents “My advice to teachers is to continue this knowledge, from a particular subject “For example, if a family of five and Catholic schools have prepared their to keep the students and our mission in area, in your life? whose parents are working from children.” † The Criterion Friday, April 10, 2020 Page 9

Cloistered religious in archdiocese offer wisdom for those ordered to stay at home By Sean Gallagher DeBona—recently spoke with The Criterion to offer advice for Catholics Stay at home, except for essential across central and southern Indiana, who business and activities. are now living a much more cloistered That was the order that Indiana life than they’ve lived before. Gov. Eric Holcomb gave to residents Father Guerric is Saint Meinrad’s across the state on March 24. subprior (third in leadership) and The purpose of the extraordinary oversees the formation of its novices and executive order was to help stop the monks in temporary vows. spread of the coronavirus, also known as Mother Mary Joseph was elected the COVID-19, which as of April 7 had killed new prioress of the Monastery of 173 people and infected more than 5,500 St. Joseph on Feb. 11, about a month others across the state. before major changes began to daily life But this radical change in daily living in Indiana because of the coronavirus. is the ordinary way of life for members A native of Vietnam, she knows the of cloistered religious communities in human challenges that families may be the archdiocese. facing now as they spend more time Carmelite nuns at the Monastery with each other than they’re used to. She of St. Joseph in Terre Haute and leads a community of sisters of diverse Benedictine monks at Saint Meinrad personalities and interests from countries Members of the Carmelite Monastery of St. Joseph in Terre Haute pray before an outdoor shrine Archabbey in St. Meinrad “stay at around the world. on the grounds of their monastery. The nuns in the cloistered community do not ordinarily go home” as part of their vocation. “The reason we’re able to live beyond the grounds of its monastery. (Photo courtesy of the Monastery of St. Joseph) Members of these two communities— together, love one another and grow Carmelite Mother Mary Joseph Nguyen together is because we make an effort when people get older, they are not going Mary Joseph said. “He is with us. He and Benedictine Father Guerric to love one another and accept one to change. They’re going to stay the way suffers in our sufferings. And he hears another,” Mother Mary they are. Married couples know this. our cries. … This time is a call for us Joseph said. “We’re “The conversion moment, then, becomes to trust, to believe that God is infinitely different, but we have how can I accept my limitations and their loving and compassionate. the same goal. We’re limitations and live in peace under the “There are many people out there journeying together Gospel when it comes to the reality that who are suffering. In a sense, we can and accept one I have chosen. There should be a certain embrace the suffering of the world and be another.” freedom in living in a community. The task comforters for them by praying for them.” Seeing love as a is to discover the freedom.” Father Guerric suggested that choice and something Father Guerric sees approaching families, like religious communities, requiring effort is part daily life with people very different mark different moments of the day by of Benedictine Father from himself as a means of growing coming together for prayer. This can be Guerric DeBona’s in holiness. He reflected that, in a especially meaningful, he said, as the view on the trials and religious community as in a family, Church comes to the end of Lent and blessings of living people of different and even conflicting looks forward to Easter. with people who are personalities have been brought together “Our liturgical year is what usually different from him, by God for this purpose. keeps us calibrated. It’s our liturgical people he might “There is a certain kind of sanctification compass,” Father Guerric said. “If that ordinarily choose to that goes on when it comes to living the becomes compromised in a sense that stay away from. Christian life with people that you didn’t we can’t even get to Mass, what do we “One of the choose to live with,” he said. do? We become small communities that challenges of living The daily challenge of living at home are prayer-oriented, that create their together is that you just can become a blessing, both religious own schedules. can’t wish the other said, if it is approached with faith “We cannot give up on prayer. We person away,” he said. and seen as an opportunity to grow in have to find other ways of creating a A Benedictine monk of Saint Meinrad Archabbey in St. Meinrad walks in front “The other maybe more relationship with God and each other. relationship with one another and with of the community’s Archabbey Church of Our Lady of Einsiedeln. difficult reality is that, “God is with us, no matter how God. What matters the most is that our (Photo courtesy of Saint Meinrad Archabbey) after a certain point, difficult the situation may be,” Mother relationship with Jesus continues.” † Saint Meinrad monk relies on faith and prayer while in Rome during pandemic By Sean Gallagher Sant’Anselmo have returned to their home countries. For the time being, he will stay in Rome. Benedictine Brother Lorenzo Penalosa, a monk of “At this point, going home is close to impossible for Saint Meinrad Archabbey in many due to limited train and flights, closed borders St. Meinrad, is living at present in Italy, the epicenter of and the high risk of catching the virus while traveling,” the coronavirus pandemic in Europe. he said. Although the country is under a tight lockdown to A transitional deacon, Brother Lorenzo hopes to stem the spread of the virus that has taken the lives of return to Saint Meinrad later this year for his priesthood more than 16,000 people there, Brother Lorenzo said ordination, which is scheduled for Aug. 30. in a recent interview with The Criterion that he relies “It’s still about five months away, so we hope and on his faith in God and monastic vocation to get him pray that the situation will improve by then,” he said. through this trying time. In the meantime, while he wishes he were back at He lives at the Collegio Sant’Anselmo in Rome, a Saint Meinrad, he keeps in touch with his fellow monks residence for Benedictine monks from around the world through digital messaging and video chats. who are pursuing graduate studies or ministering in “The livestreaming of liturgies in the Archabbey the Eternal City. Brother Lorenzo is studying liturgical Church also gives me a lot of consolation,” Brother theology. Lorenzo said. “Overall, although I can’t be at Although no visitors are allowed to join them in Saint Meinrad right now, I am grateful for my prayer, the monks at Sant’Anselmo gather daily for community here at Sant’Anselmo.” Mass and the Liturgy of the Hours and have periods for As a monk who has a deep love for the Church’s personal prayer and eucharistic adoration. worship, Brother Lorenzo sees its liturgy as a way for “With all of these,” Brother Lorenzo said, “it’s as if Catholics to find hope in this difficult time. Benedictine Brother Lorenzo Penalosa, a monk of Saint Meinrad we’re saying, ‘Lord, we know that the world is hurting “I’ve been very touched to see so many priests and Archabbey in St. Meinrad, stands on March 29 in a courtyard of right now, but you are still in charge. We continue to religious communities livestreaming their celebrations the Collegio Sant’Anselmo in Rome, which is a residence for sing of your praises. We continue to pray for the world. of Mass and prayer. It’s during this time of social Benedictines from around the world studying or ministering in We continue to sanctify our time with prayer, knowing distancing that we feel our hunger for the liturgy, for a Rome. (Submitted photo) that you are still with us.’ ” deeper connection. He’s also edified by the way that the people of Italy “ … The entire Church prays together at every Christians strive for an imperishable crown. The word have responded to the trials of living under lockdown. celebration. It’s ironic that even with social media and for crown in Latin, Brother Lorenzo noted, is “corona.” “Even in this dire situation, there are glimmers of instant communication, many people still feel isolated. “Over here, it’s impossible to hear the word corona hope,” Brother Lorenzo said. “There’s the now iconic I pray that this time may reawaken in all of us our thirst and not think about the virus and our situation,” Brother image of Italians looking out from their balconies or for communion with God and our brothers and sisters.” Lorenzo said. “In many ways, I think it’s providential windows, singing, playing music and applauding health He noted that Evening Prayer on the first four that this verse appears in the liturgy at this moment. care workers at certain times of the day. I can hear them Sundays of Lent include a reading from St. Paul’s It’s a reminder that this coronavirus, too, will wither even from my own window.” Letter to the Corinthians that speak about athletes and pass, but we are called to the imperishable crown Some who lived with Brother Lorenzo at competing for a perishable crown of leaves while awaiting us as sons and daughters of God.” † Page 10 The Criterion Friday, April 10, 2020 Neighborhood Catholics in Indy create outdoor Stations of the Cross Members of the MOMS (Ministry of neighborhood were recruited to either Mothers Sharing) ministry of St. Barnabas create, host, or both create and host the Parish in Indianapolis launched an effort stations to form a 2.5-mile path. to create an outdoor Stations of the “People have been coming through Cross path in Indianapolis’ Hill Valley walking, driving or biking,” said Rachel neighborhood near the parish. Miller, a member of St. Barnabas Parish. Catholic families from the Indianapolis “For our family, this has already been the parishes of St. Barnabas, St. John perfect lesson on the different Stations of the Evangelist, St. Jude, St. Mark the the Cross. We are able to stop and reflect Evangelist and St. Roch who live in the and ask each other questions.” †

The 12th station, Jesus Dies on the Cross, is displayed in the yard of a Hill Valley neighborhood home in Indianapolis. Catholic families in the neighborhood joined to create a 2.5-mile homemade Stations of the Cross. (Submitted photo by Rachel Chalk it up to perseverance Miller)

Bailey Freese and other members of the eighth-grade class of St. Luke School in Indianapolis decorate the sidewalk around the parish church on April 5, Palm Sunday. The school’s eighth- grade class traditionally presents a Passion play for the parish and school during Holy Week. The event was not possible this year due to safe-distance guidelines during the coronavirus outbreak. So the classmates—remaining six or more feet apart—participated in a chalk art project on the sidewalks around the church on Palm Sunday morning, writing Scripture passages, encouraging messages and pictures. Parishioners and school families were invited on Palm Sunday afternoon to view the art as well as outdoor Stations of the Cross by car or by walking while maintaining safe distance. An e-mail about the project sent by the Eighth-Grade Room Parent Team to class parents stated, “This is a great way for the Class of 2020 to do our part to help our parish members to connect with St. Luke until we are able to worship together again.” (Photo by Natalie Hoefer)

Pope Francis establishes coronavirus GOD’S WORK emergency fund for mission territories through VATICAN CITY (CNS)—Pope Francis of the congregation. “The Holy Father established an emergency fund to help is calling upon the Church’s entire vast communities in the Catholic Church’s network to face the challenges ahead.” OUR HANDS mission territories affected by the The pontifical mission societies, coronavirus pandemic. which are under the Congregation for the The pope has given an initial Evangelization of Peoples, include the contribution of $750,000 and asked Society for the Propagation of the Faith, Church organizations to contribute to the Missionary Childhood Association, the fund, which will be managed by the the Society of St. Peter Apostle and pontifical mission societies, according to the Missionary Union of Priests and a statement published on April 6 by Fides, Religious. the news agency of the Congregation for The societies support more than 9,000 the Evangelization of Peoples. health clinics, 10,000 orphanages, 1,200 “In her task of evangelization, the schools, 80,000 seminarians and 9,000 “For even the son of man did not Church is often on the front lines of religious sisters and brothers in more than major threats to human well-being,” said 1,150 mission dioceses—mostly in Africa come to be served, but to serve, and Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, prefect and Asia. † to give his life as a ransom for many.” Mark 10:45

For those who are blessed with economic security, if you have not already been doing so, please consider providing financial support to your parish in this critical time of need.

The Church stands as a beacon of hope in many communities, hope that does not so much radiate in the brick and mortar of a building as through the ministries and services provided by your parish.

Make your gift online today at www.archindy.org/Giving The Criterion Friday, April 10, 2020 Page 11

A supplement to Catholic newspapers published by Catholic News Service, 3211 Fourth Street, N.E., Washington, D.C. 20017-1100. All contents are copyrighted © 2020 by FaithAlive! Catholic News Service.

A priest lights a fire outside Mission St. Juan Diego in Arlington Heights, Ill., during a previous year’s celebration of the Easter Vigil. Each Christian present is seen to be a bearer of the light of Christ. (CNS photo/Karen Callaway, Catholic New World)

Easter celebrates Christ’s resurrection by moving from darkness to light By David Gibson The night shall be as bright as day, dazzling candles called tapers. Ultimately, the paschal However, “in each of us [God] never is the night for me and full of gladness.” candle, itself a symbol of Christ, will share ceases to see an irrepressible kernel of “This is the night,” the Church sings Typically, the Easter Vigil begins in my its flame with all those present, passed along beauty,” the pope emphasized. He called out again and again in a poetic hymn corner of the world on Easter’s eve around 8 first to a few handheld tapers and then, from Jesus “a specialist at turning our deaths dating far back in Christian history called p.m. or a bit later, after darkness descends. them, to the rest of the participants. into life.” the “Exsultet.” The title is taken from the But this will be no celebration of darkness! The symbolism is clear. Each Christian The Easter Vigil’s message is all about first word of its original Latin text, which “Let all corners of the Earth be glad, present now is seen to be a bearer of the overcoming darkness with light. But means “exult.” knowing an end to gloom and darkness.” light of Christ. As all walk together into Easter hope is not naive. It does not deny It is heard each year in Catholic That is the exhortation of the Exsultet. a darkened church, their candlelight is the trouble big problems can cause. Yet, churches during the Easter Vigil marking So, darkness is not the true focus of the meant to illuminate the worship space. hope “means acknowledging that evil, the commencement of celebrations of the Easter Vigil’s first part. The focal point is Thus, Easter’s light overcomes darkness. suffering and death will not have the last great feast of Christ’s resurrection. light, which means that the risen Christ The early part of the Easter Vigil is word,” Pope Francis has said. “This is the night, when Christ is the focal point. For fire, candlelight, characterized by a focus on light, but The Easter Vigil’s first part, typically broke the prison bars of death and rose sunlight and even the brightening dawn of also by the participants’ procession from called the service of light, brings the victorious from the underworld,” the each new day all have symbolized Christ darkness into light, their movement from paschal candle front and center to signify Exsultet declares. Affirming this as a in Christian history. the dark setting where a fire of Christ is that Jesus Christ is true light for the world. “truly blessed night,” the hymn basks The Easter Vigil commonly begins lighted into the church’s interior, ready to The Exsultet sings of the paschal candle, delightedly in Easter’s bright rays of light outdoors, where a blazing fire is lit and a glow with new light. praying that it “may persevere undimmed and hope, crying out: church’s new paschal candle awaits the The light of Easter is not reserved to to overcome the darkness of this night.” “This is the night of which it is written: community’s members, all carrying small them alone, however. If Christ’s light is The service of light makes a basic a blessing, like every blessing its reverse statement about Christianity. The service side commissions all who receive it to reflects the faith of ancient Christians that convey it to others. It can be challenging Christ’s light indeed overcomes darkness. to bring light to others whose lives are History shows that early Christians bore darkened by illness, sadness or other hard- Christ’s light into their world against all to-overcome difficulties, but Christians odds and at great risk. are called to make the attempt. The Exsultet reflects such faith Hopelessness is one difficult-to- wonderfully when in a concluding petition overcome form of darkness that calls it identifies the morning star with Christ. out for light. Pope Francis spoke of Today, of course, the morning star usually this during the 2019 Easter Vigil in is identified with the light of the planet St. Peter’s Basilica. Crushed hopes hardly Venus rising in the east in early morning are unusual. But the pope sought to guard to announce compellingly that a new day against any temptation “to think that is on the horizon. dashed hope is the bleak law of life.” That is what Easter meant to early What blocks hope is discouragement, Christians, the arrival of an entirely new resignation or, for example, a sense of day, the arrival, in fact, of a new creation. desolation, Pope Francis suggested. People The remarkable prayer of the Exsultet may “lose heart and come to believe that is that the paschal candle will be found death is stronger than life,” and “a kind of “still burning by the Morning Star, the one tomb psychology takes over.” Morning Star who never sets, Christ your The pope asked, “How many times, Son, who coming back from death’s domain once we have encountered the Lord, do has shed his peaceful light on humanity.” Worshippers hold candles during a celebration of the Easter Vigil at St. Jude Church in Mastic Beach, we return to the dead, digging up regrets, N.Y. The celebration of Christ’s resurrection at Easter begins in darkness and moves toward light. reproaches, hurts and dissatisfactions, (David Gibson served on Catholic News (CNS file photo/Gregory A. Shemitz) without letting the risen One change us?” Service’s editorial staff for 37 years.) † Page 12 The Criterion Friday, April 10, 2020 Perspectives Joyful Witness/Kim Pohovey Twenty Something/ Providence means trusting that God will take care of us Christina Capecchi One of the enduring lessons my father well kept, he kept his eyes on the Lord. Dad and money freed up to pay for the new ‘I’m not fine’: taught me is that God always provides. attended daily Mass and prayed unceasingly. bill. I think my husband has become a My dad was an extremely hard-working One of the most indelible images of my believer because he often expresses the the power of man of faith. For father is him kneeling beside his bed every phrase to me before I can say it to him. years, he owned his night to say his prayers, no doubt thanking Where we, as humans, get tripped up own meat and fruit God for providing for his family. During is in thinking we know what we need. The an honest answer market. He worked this time, Dad never stopped volunteering truth is God alone knows our needs. So at Stephanie Weinert’s Instagram long hours, providing his time or donating his treasure to his its core, God’s providence tells us that it followers have come to expect unfiltered for not only his own parish. He was steadfast in his faith and doesn’t matter if we get laid off, lose value captions to go with her pretty pictures. family but those of fervent in his prayer of providence. In in our 401K, have to cancel a vacation, or That’s why she his employees. He time, he became extremely successful in God forbid, face more dire circumstances has amassed 7,000 was also determined his new career—I imagine because he like homelessness or food insecurity, God followers, who click to help individuals was hardworking and trustworthy, and will provide for us. Providence might on images of her five throughout his tiny undoubtedly because God heard his prayers. certainly look different than what we want, young children and, township community by supplying When my husband and I married, I but it always supplies what we need. And in doing so, access groceries to those in need. When his carried this sentiment forward to our what we need is God steering our lives. her tips on skin care, market could no longer compete with the family. Whenever we experienced a Be forewarned, however, that it takes home decor and large grocery chains, his business went financial challenge or setback, I would more than simply uttering the words; it liturgical living. bankrupt. In his late 40s and with six always tell my husband the same thing: takes unconditional trust in God. It takes Each one is offered children, a wife and mother-in-law living “God always provides.” He was probably surrendering our current circumstances to the up in the spirit of under his roof, he knew he had no other annoyed at first, but he too came to see Lord and believing wholeheartedly that he sisterhood: Here’s what works for me, choice than to persevere. God’s providence at work in our lives. will take care of us—one way or another— maybe it’ll help you, too. The 39-year- He switched to a career selling life It would seem that every time we owed and not necessarily our way, but his. old Catholic from Charlotte, N.C., has insurance, a tough field to break into an unexpected bill or had to deal with made a habit of sharing from the heart, no matter the circumstance. Despite the an emergency repair or medical issue, (Kimberly Pohovey is a member of starting with her days as a radio host and difficulties of his new career and moving somehow we found a way to pay for it: St. Jude Parish in Indianapolis. She is continuing now as a homeschooling mom his family from a large, comfortable house some unexpected refund would come our the director of mission advancement for and a Beautycounter senior director. to a smaller one which had not been very way, or we finished paying on one thing Archdiocesan Education Initiatives.) † Instagram suits her well, rendering her a stand-in big sister whose extended captions feel like mid-conversation with an old friend. Our Works of Charity/David Bethuram “I stopped doing this stupid thing I’ve done pretty much my whole life,” she wrote last month in a post. “I stopped saying Church working to help break cycle of domestic violence ‘I’m fine’ when someone asks me how I’m Almost 20 people per minute in the U.S. the perfect relationship—until one day saw herself dying at his hands. doing. And it’s been life changing.” are physically abused by an intimate partner, she felt his hand on her face. He said, She said she went to bed that night and The text accompanied a picture of according to the National Coalition Against “[Profanity] if you had kept your mouth prayed. She told me she heard this soft- Stephanie holding her infant Beckett, Domestic Violence. In closed, it wouldn’t have happened.” spoken voice in her ear, and she knew it smiling over her shoulder with a cascade a single day, Indiana From that moment, her life was turned was voice of God. The next morning, she of blond curls. domestic violence upside down. She was mentally, emotionally woke up and the voice said to her, “Today’s A riveting 400-word message followed: programs serve 1,800 and sexually abused. He degraded her, and the day you leave.” Angela couldn’t believe “I hate being a burden, and it’s always victims. Domestic he talked about her being overweight. She what she was hearing. She told her husband felt easier to just say ‘fine’ than to share violence is the willful began to question her self-worth and self- that she was leaving for work and gave him hard stuff. But the truth is, when we tell intimidation, physical confidence. She thought of committing a kiss goodbye. She hid behind a building our mom, our sister, our pastor, our bestie assault, battery, sexual suicide many times. It was a way out. across from their apartment building and or our barista that we’re fine, we not only assault, and/or other Angela didn’t tell anyone. She said she when she saw him get into his car, she rob ourselves of the chance to be blessed, abusive behavior as part was too embarrassed and ashamed to share returned to the apartment to gather her we also rob ourselves of the chance to be of a systematic pattern what she was going through—her family things and never went back! a blessing to others.” of power and control perpetrated by one and friends adored him. He isolated her, Starting over without her husband A host of happy encounters flashed intimate partner against another. and he monitored her every move, limiting was very challenging and scary, but she in Stephanie’s mind, each one the result Unfortunately, it is not unusual for her communication with them. pressed forward determined to live again. of giving an honest answer to a generic Catholic Charities to help a person who is Eventually she built up enough courage The Church can help break this cycle. inquiry of how she’s doing. a victim of domestic violence. They come and strength to tell her situation to her If you know anyone who is in a domestic The lesson was clear, and Stephanie from all walks of life and may be asking for aunt, who said she believed her and began violent relationship, please encourage them spelled it out online: “When I stopped food assistance, housing, pregnancy, senior to assist Angela with a plan in finding help. to contact the National Domestic Violence saying ‘fine’ and started taking 10 or mental health services. Many abused Angela left her husband and went to Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 or TTY 1-800- intentional seconds to speak the truth, I women seek help first from the Church live with her aunt, but he convinced her 787-3224 or go on the Indiana Coalition found connection, solidarity, useful tips, because they see it as a safe place. Even if to return. He swore that he would seek Against Domestic Violence website hugs, humor and prayer support. I’ve made their abusers isolate them from other social counseling, an anger management program, icadvinc.org to find domestic violence new friends and deepened old ones.” contacts, they may still allow them to go to but he never did. Angela believed him and programs near where you live in Indiana. Moving beyond “I’m fine” means church. Here’s a story of a woman I know gave in, giving him another chance. sharing trials and triumphs. Stephanie had who came to Catholic Charities. Change never came. One day he put (David Bethuram is executive director of hesitated to talk about her business success, “Angela” was a sophomore in college. his hands around her neck and began the archdiocesan Secretariat for Catholic but has learned to open up. “I can do it in a She fell in love with a wonderful guy, her strangling her. He told her that he would Charities. E-mail him at dbethuram@ way that honors God and also invites other prince charming. They married. It was kill her if she ever left him again. Angela archindy.org.) † women to come learn from me,” she said. She concluded her post with brutal honesty: “So here’s me on a Wednesday. The Theology of Technology/Brett Robinson I’m not fine. I’m three months out from a traumatic labor and emergency C-section, The spiritual benefits of today’s technology in a time of crisis followed by a surprise heart-defect diagnosis and then a shocking Down “Gather around the TV, kids, it’s time showed that my parents put such a high beauty in the emptiness. syndrome diagnosis. It’s been hard and to pray.” Those are words I never thought value on witnessing the holy sacrifice of the The thought of praying with the pope emotional. Transitioning to five kids has I would utter as a Catholic media studies Mass on Sundays that we weren’t going to and the rest of the world while adoring the also been tough. … My God, my amazing professor who has miss it, even if it meant watching it on TV. Blessed Sacrament was a consoling reminder husband and beautiful friends lift me up spent the past 20 years Shouldn’t the opposite be true? Didn’t that God’s love and mercy is not confined to and help me see the beauty in the chaos. studying the effects of watching Mass on TV cheapen the any particular place. The televised experience … Your turn. How are you doing? How media on children and experience by hollowing out its embodied provided a fitting analogy for God’s ability can I pray for you today?” families. and sacramental character? Under normal to transcend the temporal and physical Hundreds of people responded. And yet, for the circumstances, perhaps. constraints of this world to unite the Church “Really burnt out,” one woman wrote. past few weeks during If we could travel to Mass safely, there through spiritual communion. “The last 8-12 months I have not been the coronavirus was no reason to watch on TV. But then There is a very good case to be made in control,” another wrote. “To top it off, I quarantine, I have there’s the story of St. Clare of Assisi who, about the corrosive effects of television can’t seem to pray or go to confession.” found myself saying when she was too ill to attend Mass, was that have accumulated over the past half “I’m not fine either,” another mom those words every day granted a vision of the liturgy that was century. But our recent need to see and wrote. “I feel like I’ve been in survival at noon as we gather to “attend” Mass at a projected onto the wall of her room. It’s why hear the prayer of the Church while being mode for a long time.” church that offers a daily livestream. The St. Clare is now the patron saint of television. separated from it has attenuated those Foster-care struggles were recounted. experience has forced me to re-evaluate All of this came into particular focus on effects for the moment. Infertility. Unemployment. our relationship with media technology as March 27 when Pope Francis delivered an For now, as our television culture gives “Whew,” Stephanie said of the many a Catholic family in a time of crisis. “urbi et orbi” extraordinary blessing to an way to a digital culture that has yet to comments. “We are a hurting world.” As a kid, I can remember watching empty St. Peter’s Square. Unable to attend reveal its own lasting effects, the TV is The best response is honesty: to make Mass on television during a particularly because of the pandemic, the faithful were providing a spiritual lifeline to the Church others feel less alone and to “witness to bad snowstorm in Pittsburgh, where I invited “to participate spiritually through that has been physically separated but a story of grace,” she said. “God is with grew up. It was a little unsettling, but it the means of communication.” remains spiritually intact. us in the good and the hard—and other also sent a powerful message. We watched as a family as Pope people are too. I’ve learned this firsthand, To this day, I still tell my parents that Francis ascended the stairs of St. Peter’s (Brett Robinson is director of and it’s such a relief and a blessing.” watching Mass on TV in that snowstorm alone in the rain as evening descended on communications and Catholic media left more of an impression on me than the empty streets of Rome. The images studies at the University of Notre Dame (Christina Capecchi is a freelance writer anything I learned in catechism class. It were stark and arresting. There was a sad McGrath Institute for Church Life.) † from Inver Grove Heights, Minn.) † The Criterion Friday, April 10, 2020 Page 13

Easter Sunday of the Resurrection of the Lord/ Msgr. Owen F. Campion Daily Readings Monday, April 13 Friday, April 17 The Sunday Readings Monday within the Octave of Friday within the Octave of Easter Easter Sunday, April 12, 2020 Acts 2:14, 22-33 Acts 4:1-12 • Acts of the Apostles 10:34a, 37-43 Psalm 16:1-2a, 5, 7-11 Psalm 118:1-2, 4, 22-27a • Colossians 3:1-4 Matthew 28:8-15 John 21:1-14 • John 20:1-9 Tuesday, April 14 Saturday, April 18 Tuesday within the Octave of Saturday within the Octave of This weekend, the Church celebrates themselves that it was empty (Jn 20:2). the greatest of its feasts, the Solemnity of John went into the tomb. He was not Easter Easter the Resurrection of the Lord, or Easter. bewildered. Strong in faith, he knew that Acts 2:36-41 Acts 4:13-21 It is the greatest Jesus had risen. Psalm 33:4-5, 18-20, 22 Psalm 118:1, 14-15b, 16-21 of feasts because John 20:11-18 Mark 16:9-15 it rejoices in the Reflection fulfillment of human The readings for this feast, as salvation, finalized and well as the feast of Easter itself, are Wednesday, April 15 Sunday, April 19 completed when the overpowering in the richness and breadth Wednesday within the Octave Second Sunday of Easter Lord Jesus rose from of their message. Jesus is the Savior! He of Easter Divine Mercy Sunday death to new earthly lives forever! Acts 3:1-10 Acts 2:42-47 and eternal life after In the Acts of the Apostles, Peter and Psalm 105:1-4, 6-9 Psalm 118:2-4, 13-15, 22-24 having been crucified. the Apostles were exercising a role given Luke 24:13-35 1 Peter 1:3-9 On Holy Saturday, them earlier by Jesus, as documented in after dusk, the Church presents its splendid the Gospels. Salvation in Jesus did not John 20:19-31 liturgy of the Easter Vigil. Quite vividly in end when Jesus ascended to heaven. It Thursday, April 16 the Vigil’s readings, the Church recalls the lived on in the Apostles, and it lives now Thursday within the Octave of long history of God’s unfailing love for us. in and through the Church. Easter For Easter itself, the first reading is The second reading, taken from Acts 3:11-26 from the Acts of the Apostles. Speaking Colossians, calls us to turn totally on behalf of all the Apostles, Peter to Jesus. We must drown our sins in Psalm 8:2ab, 5-9 summarizes the life and mission of Jesus. baptism. Dead to sin, we also rise in our Luke 24:35-48 More than a biography, it is a testament lives here on Earth. Sin is death. If we do of God’s love for humanity, given in not repent, our sins are final, dooming us Jesus and in his sacrifice of himself. It to death. Turning to God brings us life. Question Corner/Fr. Kenneth Doyle invites people to follow the Lord, eagerly Volumes have been written about these offering a reassurance that God is with us verses from the resurrection narrative from Remind nephew getting married still alive in Jesus, the Risen One. St. John’s Gospel. Two figures are very For the second reading, the Church important. The first is Mary Magdalene. outside Church of the gift of faith offers a passage from St. Paul’s Epistle The second is the Beloved Disciple. to the Colossians. The Apostle tells us, Both Mary Magdalene and the My family have been dedicated at this ceremony would have resulted as he told his first audience, that we Beloved Disciple loved Jesus without QCatholics for generations. Recently, in his excommunication. Has he been have been raised with Christ. We usually qualification, perfectly, totally. a nephew of mine announced that he excommunicated? And if not, what is associate resurrection with death, in They are examples for us to remember. is planning to get the reasoning behind that? (Little Rock, that resurrection is re-vivification after Mary Magdalene is a model to follow as married in a civil Arkansas) physical death. In the Pauline writings, temptation and doubts occur. She played ceremony. (I believe resurrection also meant an event on Earth with fire by paying attention to the corpse that neither he nor his It is true that in 2016, Biden, while physical life is present. It is a of a condemned traitor. The Romans fiancée is dedicated Awho was then the vice president, resurrection over sin and despair, a gift of always were looking for conspiracies, and to a religion. He presided at a same-sex wedding for two God to each disciple. they played for keeps. Yet, disregarding is a “fallen-away men who were longtime White House St. John’s Gospel supplies the last the risk, and indeed not knowing what Catholic” millennial.) aides. The ceremony took place at the reading. It is the familiar story of Mary she would find, Mary went to the tomb. As the eldest in the vice-presidential residence at the Naval Magdalene’s early morning visit to the The Beloved Disciple possessed family, I am saddened Observatory. tomb where Jesus had been buried after the insight to realize what the empty by this turn of events Reaction from the U.S. Conference of being crucified. She found the tomb empty. tomb meant. Loving the Lord is all that and have researched the stand of my Catholic Bishops (USCCB) was swift in Immediately, she hurried to Peter and the mattered. It answers all questions. religion relative to my participation in coming. Within a matter of days, three other disciples to give them the news. As humans, we cannot predict, control this union. To be honest, the guidance I’m officials of the conference—without The disciples took her word. Peter and or explain everything. We need Jesus. He finding is not very direct as to the Church’s mentioning Biden by name, but clearly John, named as “the disciple whom Jesus lives. He awaits us. He will guide and stance. Can you provide me some clarity? referencing his action—said this: “When loved,” hurried to the tomb and saw for save us. † As a Catholic, can I attend? (My current a prominent Catholic politician publicly decision is to not attend, and this is causing and voluntarily officiates at a ceremony great angst in the family, a family that I to solemnize the relationship of people of My Journey to God treasure.) (City of origin withheld) the same sex, confusion arises regarding Catholic teaching on marriage and the I am not surprised that you are corresponding moral obligations of Afinding varying guidance in your Catholics.” Such an action, the bishops The Palms of His Love dilemma. It is basically a “strategy wrote, “is a counter witness, instead of a question” with no hard and fast “rule.” faithful one founded in the truth.” By Ron Lewis You are trying to strike a balance between The three bishops who signed the fidelity to the Church’s teaching and statement were Archbishop Joseph E. your legitimate desire to maintain family Kurtz, then-president of the USCCB; From His hands and feet harmony, and different people will have Archbishop Thomas G. Wenski, then- Flowed cleansing blood different ideas as to how to do that. chair of the Committee on Domestic That drowned my sin Here would be my suggestion: Go to Justice and Human Development; and Beneath its flood. the wedding, but first sit down and talk Bishop Richard J. Malone, then-chair of with your nephew. Tell him that you feel a the Committee on Laity, Marriage, Family Its crimson flow certain awkwardness in attending, since he Life and Youth. And the power thereof is not being married in a religious ceremony. Their statement continued, “Pope Captured my soul Explain to him what the Catholic faith has Francis has been very clear in affirming In the palms of His love! meant to you, how it has sustained you over the truth and constant teaching of the the years, offering comfort and guidance. Church that same-sex relationships cannot The price was high, Tell him how much he means to you be considered ‘in any way similar or even It was costly shed. and that your deepest hope and prayer remotely analogous to God’s plan for It was freely poured out is that, one day, he might return to the marriage and the family.’ ” In my selfish stead. practice of the faith he grew up with and As to the question of seek the Church’s blessing on his marriage. excommunication, Edward Peters, The penalty was paid, If you do that, he will not see your professor of canon law at Detroit’s major Now written above. attendance as an “endorsement” by seminary, explained at the time in his The proof? The scars the Church, you will not risk a family blog that there is no specific canon that In the palms of His love! rupture that could be permanent, and you excommunicates a Catholic for officiating keep open the possibility of his return to at a same-sex wedding and that Biden Catholic practice through your prayer and would have to demonstrate a pattern of gentle example. behavior that violates Church law in order to trigger formal disciplinary action. (Ron Lewis is a member of St. Anthony of Padua Parish in Clarksville and is I have read that Joe Biden, when a Benedictine oblate of Saint Meinrad Archabbey. Photo: The Risen Christ is Qhe was vice president, presided (Questions may be sent to Father Kenneth depicted in a stained-glass window at St. Aloysius Church in Great Neck, N.Y.) over a same-sex wedding. As you know, Doyle at [email protected] and (CNS photo/Gregory A. Shemitz) Mr. Biden professes to be a Roman 30 Columbia Circle Dr., Albany, N.Y., Catholic. I would think that his officiating 12203.) † Page 14 The Criterion Friday, April 10, 2020 St. John Paul showed how to face suffering by embracing God, Mary

VATICAN CITY (CNS)— holding the crucifix in his hands, gazing Remembering St. John Paul II and the at it with pure love. One could sense he 15th anniversary of his death, Pope was saying, ‘Jesus, I too am on the cross Francis encouraged people to pray for like you. But together with you, I await his intercession and trust in Divine the resurrection,’ ” he said. Mercy, especially during these “difficult “John Paul II knew that life is a race days” of the coronavirus pandemic. toward God’s banquet—the feast of St. John Paul, who, after a long God’s embrace, his infinite glory and illness died on April 2, 2005, will always happiness,” the cardinal said. be an important figure for the Church, “But we must prepare ourselves for but is even more so now at a time when that encounter, we must purify ourselves so many people are suffering worldwide, in order to be ready for it, we must said Cardinal Angelo Comastri, cast off any reservations of pride and archpriest of St. Peter’s Basilica. selfishness, so that we can embrace him The last years of his pontificate who is love without shadows,” he said. reflected personal trial and suffering, and The late pope lived his suffering with he showed the world through his witness this spirit, even during very difficult a life filled with faith and a way of moments, like the 1981 assassination accepting pain as something redeemed attempt, he said. by God’s love, he said in an interview “He never lost his serenity. Why? with Vatican News on April 1. Because before him he always had the “This is one of the reasons why the purpose of life. Today, many people no St. John Paul II waves farewell to the people of Papua New Guinea from the steps to his aircraft in epidemic is so frightening because, for longer believe in that purpose. That’s this 1995 file photo. April 2 was the 15th anniversary of the pope’s death in 2005. so many people, faith has died. why they live through pain with despair, (CNS photo/Reuters) John Paul II was a believer, a convinced because they can’t see beyond the pain,” believer, a coherent believer and faith he said. St. Peter’s Basilica every day at noon as From the cross, when Jesus told illuminated the path of his life,” the Before being named archpriest of it is livestreamed on Vatican media. Mary, “Behold your son” (Jn 19:26), cardinal said. St. Peter’s Basilica in 2006, Cardinal Marian devotion was a hallmark of referring to his disciple, John, the Just as the Church is marking Holy Comastri served more than eight the saint-pope, so much so “Totus Tuus cardinal said that Jesus was telling her, Week and the Easter Triduum in a years as the papal delegate overseeing Maria” (“Mary, I am all yours”) was on “Don’t think of me, but think of others, radically different way this year because the Shrine of Our Lady of Loreto, his coat of arms. help them to transform pain into love, of restrictions to curb the spread of the traditionally marked as the Blessed When asked why Mary was so help them to believe that goodness is the coronavirus, the cardinal recalled how St. Virgin Mary’s house from Nazareth. important to the late pope, Cardinal strength that overcomes evil. John Paul lived the same liturgical period in St. John Paul, in fact, asked the Comastri told Vatican News, “Because “From that moment on, Mary took 2005 with serious illness and in isolation. guardian of the Marian shrine to lead Our Lady was close to Jesus at the concern for us upon herself, and when “We all remember John Paul II’s last what would be his last Lenten retreat moment of the crucifixion and she we let ourselves be guided by her, we ‘Good Friday.’ The image we saw on that fell during the Year of the Rosary. believed this was the moment of God’s are in safe hands. John Paul II believed television is unforgettable—the pope, Cardinal Comastri has been reciting the victory over human wickedness” through this, he trusted Mary, and with Mary he who had lost all his physical strength, rosary and praying the Angelus inside love—God’s greatest strength. transformed pain into love,” he said. †

Archbishop Sheen’s niece recalls happy times with her uncle in new book WASHINGTON (CNS)—As a child, Joan Sheen things that I prayed to him and asked him to pray for, I I had the chemo” from a cancer bout Cunningham Cunningham got to travel with her parents from their would have gotten.” successfully beat back last year. Illinois home to visit her uncle, first in Washington, then The book, published by Ignatius Press in January, That means no promotional book tour, either, “not in later in New York City. includes lessons she learned from her uncle, whose this atmosphere” of the coronavirus, Cunningham said. Her uncle was Archbishop—then Father—Fulton J. Sheen. 20-year nationwide radio broadcast—followed by a hit She told CNS that she was the one who forced the issue Now 92 years old, Cunningham has written a book five-year television series, “Life Is Worth Living”—made of moving her uncle’s body to his birthplace in Peoria, Ill. recalling the times she spent with her relative, a candidate him the United States’ most visible priest. “If you look at the record, it’s Joan Sheen Cunningham for sainthood, called My Uncle Fulton Sheen. “My faith is a big thing he gave me,” she told CNS. v. Archdiocese of New York. Originally, it goes back to “My children knew I had done various things while I “As I grew up, my faith got deeper and deeper with God, when he died. Cardinal [Terence J.] Cooke called me was growing up, and they thought I should write something and that was through him. I think it has gotten deeper in and asked if he could be buried under the altar at about it,” Cunningham told Catholic News Service (CNS) my older life. The things he taught me were very practical St. Patrick’s [Cathedral in New York City]. It was a very in an April 1 phone interview from Long Beach Island, about being good to people, not to discriminate [against] great honor, so of course I agreed to that. At the time, I N.J., where she’s living with her son and daughter-in-law, people because of age or race or whatever.” still thought, ‘Let the body stay in New York.’ But after a but she had never gotten around to doing it. She noted, “Everything you do gets you closer to God, couple of years and a lot of prayers, I realized that Bishop Later, though, someone—she can’t remember who— if you do certain things,” adding her favorite prayer is [Daniel R.] Jenky [of Peoria] was the one that started approached her about writing a book. Cunningham saw a the Prayer of Our Lady. “It’s always very special to me. the [sainthood] cause. New York didn’t start it. Bishop double benefit: “I would do something for my children, Normally, I’m doing more talking [to God] than formal Jenky did,” Cunningham said. The Peoria Diocese opened and I would do anything to help my uncle,” she said. prayers.” Archbishop Sheen’s cause for canonization in 2002. In one sense, it’s returning a favor. “I pray for him As for her attending Mass, she said, “If I could go, I “I got to thinking, ‘This is something that he [Bishop every day,” Cunningham said, laughing. “For different would go to church every morning. But I haven’t since Jenky] wants. He’s earned it.’ I changed my mind. If the body could be moved—that’s when the trouble arose. It turned out the only way we could get it from the archdiocese was to sue them, take them to court. And we won each time. Online Lay Ministry Formation Four times. That’s how the body got moved.” The Archdiocese of Indianapolis has partnered with the On June 27, 2019, the mortal remains of Archbishop Sheen University of Notre Dame and Catholic Distance University (CDU) to offer not-for-credit online theology classes: were interred at St. Mary’s Cathedral in Peoria, completing a transfer from St. Patrick’s Cathedral in New York. • Earn certificate in Lay Ministry • Complete 12 courses online with ND STEP program She added, “I hope someday there will be a good • CDU offers classes on Catechism of the Catholic Church feeling between Bishop Jenky and Cardinal [Timothy M.] • 20% discount for all employees, volunteers, and parishioners Dolan [of New York]. My uncle would be very upset if they couldn’t forget the past.” For more information, please log on to Cunningham said she was “very upset” over the delay www.archindy.org/layministry in her uncle’s beatification. “And it came a very short time before the [scheduled] beatification.” Her best guess is “there was something about the state [of New York] had opened up a big opportunity for everybody that REPORT SEXUAL MISCONDUCT NOW maybe had a complaint [on clerical sex abuse], or they If you are a victim of sexual misconduct by a person ministering on had to bring it within that time framework.” behalf of the Church, or if you know of anyone who has been a victim If there’s any regret for Cunningham, it’s that “I would of such misconduct, please contact the archdiocesan victim assistance have liked to see his cause finished and done with. I pray coordinator. There are two ways to make a report: to the good Lord every day that I would like to live long Ethics Point enough to see the beatification,” which was to have taken 1 Confidential, Online Reporting www.archdioceseofindianapolis.ethicspoint.com or 888-393-6810 place on Dec. 21, 2019, but was postponed. “I don’t think Carla Hill, Archdiocese of Indianapolis, Victim Assistance Coordinator Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen is pictured with his niece, Joan I’ll make it as long as the canonization.” 2 P.O. Box 1410, Indianapolis, IN 46206-1410 Sheen Cunningham, to his right in a pink dress, and the rest of 317-236-1548 or 800-382-9836, ext. 1548 the Cunningham family, in this undated photo. Cunningham has (Information about My Uncle Fulton Sheen, by Joan [email protected] written a book about her late uncle and sainthood candidate titled Sheen Cunnigham and Janel Rodriguez, can be found on My Uncle Fulton Sheen. the Ignatius Press website, www.ignatius.com.) † The Criterion Friday, April 10, 2020 Page 15

Call for help is sounded for shelter to assist homeless families during crisis By John Shaughnessy specialized services for Catholic Charities Indianapolis. On a normal Easter weekend, the staff To ensure that safety, the shelter has ‘Our most essential need is financial support. On at Holy Family Shelter in Indianapolis had to resort to extraordinary measures, our website, we normally place our ‘top 10 need would be doing everything it could to including distancing the families as much make it a time of joy for the children as possible, and helping the families items.’ There’s only one there now. We need to and parents of the 22 families who live relocate quickly to apartments, rental pay for the hotels, for food for them, and the there—dyeing eggs and making cookies houses and extended-stay hotels. support for them while they’re in there.’ together, holding egg hunts and providing “It’s impossible to do proper social Easter baskets. distancing” when 22 families share the —Bill Bickel, director of emergency and specialized services Yet in a time when there is no same facility and the same dining room, for Catholic Charities Indianapolis normalcy because of the coronavirus Bickel said, explaining the need to find crisis, the Holy Family Shelter staff has immediate alternative housing for the focused all its efforts on one priority for residents. the families who are homeless: “Absolute The need to find alternative housing While most of the residents have During this extraordinary time, the safety is our Easter this year,” said has also led to an extraordinary need been placed in alternative housing, staff at Holy Family Shelter has been Bill Bickel, director of emergency and for financial contributions to help the some were able to move in with family tested in many ways—and has risen to the shelter serve the and friends during this desperate time. challenge, Bickel noted about the 12 full- homeless during Wherever they have ended up, they time employees and the seven part-time this time. share the same emotions as everyone in workers. Want to donate to Holy “Our most the world during this crisis—and there “It really speaks to the tremendous essential need is is an added concern for people who are passion and quality of the staff we Family Shelter? Here’s how financial support,” poor, Bickel said. have here—that they understand the Bickel said. “On “They’re scared. Keep in mind that poor, and they’re able to walk with To make an online financial donation to Holy Family our website, we they’re also working as we speak. They them in the good times and in these Shelter, visit the website, www.holyfamilyshelter.net. normally place work in grocery stores cleaning and extraordinary times. our ‘top 10 need stocking shelves, in the hospitals as “Still, there’s this incredible Checks can also be made payable to Holy Family items.’ There’s only certified nursing assistants, and two of commitment and mindset that says, ‘We Shelter and mailed directly to the shelter at: one there now. We the families work at gas stations—all jobs don’t abandon the poor.’ This is a hundred need to pay for the classified as ‘essential,’ which means they times more challenging than usual, and 907 N. Holmes Ave. hotels, for food cannot work remotely. yet they show up every day with a passion Indianapolis, IN for them, and the “Right now, we’re just trying to get to serve the least among us, often at great 46222-3714 support for them through the health crisis to make sure the personal sacrifice. while they’re in families are safe and supported. Once that “If anyone is looking for the next there. Each of the settles down, I think the fallout and the greatest generation, they don’t need to The shelter only needs financial donations at this time. hotel rooms has a ripple effect on them will be substantial. look any farther than the staff I get to kitchenette.” It will be really, really tough on the poor.” work with.” †

While it was first thought to be assurance to both patients and their Body of Christ, missionary disciples CLOSURE transmitted through touch, evidence families. and stewards of God’s grace by carrying continued from page 4 now reveals that it is being transmitted Finally, trying to do all that we can on the mission in whatever form by air (e.g. coughing, sneezing and to support our health care workers and circumstances make possible. We need namely, the Good News of salvation even breathing). There is further first responders, maintaining closed only think of the creative ways the first in Jesus Christ, crucified and risen. evidence that the virus can remain on churches at this time is one means disciples were able to worship, learn With the Father and the Holy Spirit, He various surfaces—wood, metal, paper, of lessoning the curve of cases in and proclaim the faith in carrying out remains forever with the Church, His cardboard, plastic, etc.—for hours or our communities. Marion County, as their call to holiness and mission in Body, carrying forth the mission for days at a time. That means everything would be expected, has by far the most Jesus Christ. which He was sent. being touched or breathed on by diagnosed cases and deaths from the There are great challenges before The decision to close churches here someone unsuspectingly carrying the virus. While outlying counties within us during this pandemic and, no in central and southern Indiana had virus may be left for the next person the archdiocese do not have so many doubt, “staying in place” and “social nothing to do with fear or pressure from coming along. This may be the case cases, health care facilities in those distancing” is taking its toll on us. government. Despite being dispensed in a pew, a confessional, a chair, a areas are ill-equipped for any type of But there is also unique opportunity from the obligation of Mass and being doorknob, a missalette or even a palm. spike in such cases. We owe it to them for us to delve deeper into prayer, encouraged to remain at home just prior A priest who wants to hear confessions and one another, especially in light of spiritual reading, enriching our sense to the suspension of public Masses, or take Communion from car to car in the Church’s preferential option for the of devotion (via the rosary, the Divine many elderly and vulnerable persons a parking lot cannot guarantee that he poor and vulnerable, to do all we can in Chaplet of Mercy, the Stations of attended Mass in very risky ways. would not be an agent for transmitting support of this effort to overcome this the Cross, litanies, etc.), meditating Crowds of people continued to gather the virus from one person to another or, pandemic. on the Word of God (lectio divina), closely together. This was the same even more devastating, from one family Our Catholic faith, while we have examination of conscience, learning for communal celebrations of penance. to another. In the case of an invisible some beautiful cathedrals and churches more about our Catholic faith and A number of people told me that their and vicious enemy like coronavirus, as throughout the archdiocese and world, discerning how to become more elderly parents or grandparents would I have said before, there can be a fine is not confined to buildings. It is involved in the Church’s mission to not stay home unless everything was line between being heroic and being an in buildings that we gather to pray, proclaim the Good News of Jesus suspended and churches were closed. agent of transmitting disease. worship, learn Church teachings and Christ. Whether inside or outside any Maintaining our primary focus on Our priests continue to respond gather in fellowship. But the living of given Church structure, above all, may salvation of souls does not mean turning to sacramental and pastoral needs in our Catholic faith takes place in all we remain Christ-centered in all we a blind eye to reason and prevention of danger of death, including entering facets of society such as homes, places say and do. serious harm. hospitals and other places to hear of work, schools, neighborhoods, As the data has shown, people who confessions and administer the athletic events, political arenas, cultural are asymptomatic, that is, not showing anointing of the sick, Viaticum and venues and on the streets. While there signs of having been infected, have last rites. We are most grateful to those has been a disruption in our ability to passed on the virus to others before hospital chaplains that are on the front gather as a community of believers, we Most Reverend Charles C. Thompson being diagnosed with COVID-19. lines to provide spiritual comfort and continue to be Catholic, Church, the Archbishop of Indianapolis

during this time. Learn how to play a new SCHOOLS instrument or a new card game. Learn a continued from page 8 new craft. Go on nature walks and explore For advertising rates call the various types of trees and plants that Classified Directory (317) 236-1585. Q. Your family is back together grow well in our climate. Learn how to during this time. From your experience cook. Learn how to change a tire or the Medicare Insurance so far, what advice would you give to oil on a car.” families to help them make the most of this time together? Q. Any other thoughts you’d like to A. “As my family sat at the dinner share? table together near the beginning of the A. “My hope is that none of us— ‘stay-at-home’ order, I recall saying to parents, teachers, school leaders and my husband and our two sons—one in Church leaders—forget this time in our high school and the other in college—‘It lives. Let it be a reminder of what a gift it would be shameful if we get on the other is to live in a country where our religious side of this pandemic and we haven’t used liberties are upheld, a state where parental the time and resources we have to learn choice of schooling is honored, and something new, to take on a new hobby or communities where quality Catholic to refine our skills in some way.’ I can’t education and formation are provided to say we all embraced this concept with young people as a vital ministry of the similar enthusiasm, but I still have a few Church. weeks to work on them. “We cannot lose sight of the ways in “Imagine the creativity, innovation which we have come together to support and joy our children can experience one another.” † Page 16 The Criterion Friday, April 10, 2020 Cardinal Pell released from prison after court overturns conviction VALLA BEACH, Australia (CNS) “The High Court found that the jury, -- Cardinal George Pell has been released acting rationally on the whole of the from prison after 405 days behind bars evidence, ought to have entertained a after the seven judges of the High Court doubt as to the applicant’s guilt with of Australia unanimously overturned respect to each of the offenses for which the original December 2018 jury verdict he was convicted, and ordered that the that found him guilty on five counts of convictions be quashed and that verdicts molesting two 13-year-old choirboys in of acquittal be entered in their place,” the 1996. brief judgment stated. The court’s decision, read on April 7, The High Court agreed with Cardinal concluded there was “a significant Pell’s legal counsel who argued that the possibility that an innocent person has judges on the Victoria court did not take been convicted because the evidence did into account the testimony of a witness not establish guilt to the requisite standard who said that the cardinal, who was of proof.” archbishop of Melbourne at the time, might A few hours later, the 78-year-old not have had the opportunity to commit Cardinal Pell was driven from Barwon the offenses, thus raising reasonable doubt prison to a Carmelite monastery in about his guilt, and therefore should have Melbourne. overturned the jury decision. “I have consistently maintained “The court held that, on the my innocence while suffering from a assumption that the jury had assessed the serious injustice,” Cardinal Pell said in complainant’s evidence as thoroughly a statement, adding that he holds “no ill credible and reliable, the evidence of will toward my accuser.” the opportunity witnesses nonetheless “I do not want my acquittal to add to required the jury, acting rationally, to have the hurt and bitterness so many feel; there entertained a reasonable doubt as to the Cardinal George Pell is seen in a car after being released from Barwon prison in Geelong, Australia, is certainly hurt and bitterness enough,” applicant’s guilt in relation to the offenses on April 7. (CNS photo/James Ross, AAP Image via Reuters) he said. involved in both alleged incidents,” the The Vatican said in a statement that it High Court said. Many survivors’ groups, who had seen reported as many as 10 suits either filed “welcomes the High Court’s unanimous Australia’s final court of appeal issued the cardinal’s conviction as vindication or in preparation—and new allegations decision concerning Cardinal George Pell, its judgment less than a month after a for their long-standing campaigns to get were made in recent weeks as part of a acquitting him of the accusations of abuse two-day hearing by the justices on justice from the Church for decades of three-part documentary series on child of minors and overturning his sentence.” March 9-10. The decision was delivered child sexual abuse, were devastated by the abuse in the Australian Church. The statement said the Holy See initially by a Twitter message on the acquittal. In addition, Australian Attorney “has always expressed confidence in the court’s official feed linking to the Archbishop Mark Coleridge, president General Christian Porter is now free Australian judicial authority,” and noted decision, due to the unique circumstance of the Australian Catholic Bishops’ to authorize the removal of lengthy that “Cardinal Pell has always maintained of the COVID-19 pandemic that has Conference, said in a statement that the redactions to two case studies from his innocence and has waited for the truth infected more than 5,000 Australians and High Court’s ruling will be “welcomed by the country’s Royal Commission into to be ascertained.” claimed more than 40 lives. many, including those who have believed Institutional Responses to Child Sexual “At the same time,” the statement Due to social distancing measures in the cardinal’s innocence throughout Abuse. continued, “the Holy See reaffirms its in Australia to stem the spread of the this lengthy process.” One case study concerned a timeframe commitment to preventing and pursuing coronavirus and the closure of some “We also recognize that the High when the cardinal was a priest in the all cases of abuse against minors.” state borders in the country, the verdict Court’s decision will be devastating for Diocese of Ballarat and was supposedly The court reversed the result of was delivered by Chief Justice Susan others,” he said. “Many have suffered advising the bishop at a time when Cardinal Pell’s June 2019 appeal to the Kiefel in a near empty room in the greatly through the process, which has serial child sexual abuse by other priests Victoria Supreme Court, which had High Court registry in her home state of now reached its conclusion. The result occurred, as documented by the Royal upheld the jury verdict by a majority of Queensland, rather than at the High Court today does not change the Church’s Commission. The other covered a time 2-1. The High Court said the Victoria in Australia’s capital Canberra. unwavering commitment to child safety frame when he was archbishop of court should have overturned the verdict Cardinal Pell said in his statement and to a just and compassionate response Melbourne when other such offenses were based on reasonable doubt about the that “my trial was not a referendum on to survivors and victims of child sexual committed by priests in the diocese. cardinal having an opportunity to commit the Catholic Church, nor a referendum abuse. Any person with allegations of Survivors groups are pressing Porter to the offenses immediately after a Mass in on how Church authorities in Australia sexual abuse by Church personnel should release the information. the Melbourne cathedral. dealt with the crime of pedophilia in the go to the police.” The Vatican had said Cardinal Pell The most senior Catholic to be Church. The point was whether I had Cardinal Pell’s legal problems might faced an abuse investigation by the convicted of child sexual offenses, committed these awful crimes, and I did not be over. Prosecutors could potentially Congregation for the Doctrine of Faith, Cardinal Pell originally was sentenced not.” revive another set of potential charges for but that investigation was put on hold to six years in prison—with a possibility “The only basis for long-term healing is a second set of historical abuse allegations awaiting the conclusion of the Australian of parole after three years and eight truth, and the only basis for justice is truth, that were headed for trial but dropped legal process. months—for sexually abusing two choirboys because justice means truth for all,” he said, once he was originally convicted. The Vatican statement on April 7 in 1996 and 1997. One of the men has adding “a special thanks for all the prayers He is also facing a string of civil did not say whether or not the Church since died. and thousands of letters of support.” suits—Australian news media have investigation would continue. †

Bishops: Long-held ethical, moral principles must guide COVID-19 response WASHINGTON (CNS)—The coronavirus some difficult decisions ahead. At all times resources Catholic Bioethics Center have all published excellent pandemic is creating fear over limited resources for are limited—there are only so many beds and so many reminders of these principles and guidelines,” treating patients, especially the most seriously ill, but supplies—but this crisis has and will continue to they said. “We ask people, especially medical “this is not a time to sideline our ethical and moral challenge us greatly,” they said. “Every crisis produces professionals, to read these documents and apply them principles,” said the chairmen of three committees of fear, and the COVID-19 pandemic is no exception.” appropriately in their work.” the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB). Across the country, a critical shortage of personal The statements they cited can be found online “It is a time to uphold them ever more strongly, protective equipment for medical personnel who are at these organizations respective websites: Catholic for they will critically assist us in steering through treating patients with the highly contagious virus and Health Association, www.chausa.org; Catholic these trying times,” said the chairmen of the USCCB’s a lack of equipment such as ventilators has prompted Medical Association, www.cathmed.org; National doctrine, pro-life and domestic policy committees in a some U.S. hospitals to consider instituting a blanket Association of Catholic Nurses-USA, nacn-usa.org; joint statement on April 3. DNR, or “do not resuscitate” order, for COVID-19 and National Catholic Bioethics Center, www. The statement came in response to recent news patients despite their wishes or those of their family. ncbcenter.org. reports highlighting policies and practices relating to Bishop Rhoades and Archbishops Naumann and Bishop Rhoades and Archbishops Naumann and rationing protocols in response to COVID-19. Coakley praised hospitals and medical personnel for Coakley also commended the Office of Civil Rights at “Foremost in our approach to limited resources is to their courage and compassion in treating the nation’s the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services always keep in mind the dignity of each person and our COVID-19 patients. “for issuing a reminder that in a time of crisis we must obligation to care for the sick and dying,” the prelates “Hospitals and health care systems are the not discriminate against persons solely on the basis of said. “Such care, however, will require patients, their true epicenter of this pandemic and our health disability or age by denying them medical care.” families and medical professionals to work together in care professionals—doctors, nurses, technicians, “Good and just stewardship of resources cannot weighing the benefits and burdens of care, the needs administrators and support staff—have all include ignoring those on the periphery of society, and safety of everyone, and how to distribute resources demonstrated courage, compassion, and truly but must serve the common good of all, without in a prudent, just and unbiased way.” remarkable professional care in a time of growing categorically excluding people based on ability, The statement was signed by Bishop Kevin crisis,” the bishops said. financial resources, age, immigration status or race,” C. Rhoades of Fort Wayne-South Bend, Ind., chairman They acknowledged the difficult decisions about care they said. of the USCCB’s Committee on Doctrine; Archbishop confronting these health care workers, and urged them The prelates added: “With our Holy Father, Pope Joseph F. Naumann of Kansas City, Kan., chairman of to read a number of important statements from Catholic Francis, the entire Church continues to pray for, and the Committee on Pro-Life Activities; and Archbishop health care and medical ethical organizations reminding offer support to, all those affected by this pandemic.” Paul S. Coakley of Oklahoma City, chairman of them—and the general public—of ethical and moral the Committee on Domestic Justice and Human principles to be applied in these difficult circumstances. (The USSCB website has a special link to a page Development. “The Catholic Health Association of the United offering various resources for the nation’s Catholics “This pandemic has highlighted the fact that we States, the Catholic Medical Association, the National as they weather the ongoing coronavirus pandemic: have limited resources and therefore may be facing Association of Catholic Nurses-USA and the National usccb.org/coronavirus.) †