January 1, 2021 Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston Vol

January 1, 2021 Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston Vol. 52, No. 1

Pandemic Draws Attention to ‘Simple, Profound Meaning of Christ’s Birth,’ Bishop Says

Martina Hart Photo Bishop Mark Brennan incenses the nativity at Christmas Eve Mass at the Basilica of the Co-Cathedral of the Sacred Heart in Charleston.

By Martina Hart The Mass was livestreamed on the would normally be a packed house. nan called the incarnation “God’s deci- ishop Mark Brennan celebrated diocese’s and the Basilica’s Facebook Bishop Brennan welcomed all who sive intervention in history.” the Solemnity of the Nativity of pages and televised throughout the were “joining us on this festive occasion Compressing his infinite being Bthe Lord at the Basilica of the Co- state at midnight. Due to current coro- of celebrating Christ coming among us, into the confines of a baby’s body and Cathedral of the Sacred Heart in navirus restrictions, in person atten- God himself coming among us for our soul, entering human history by Charleston on Christmas Eve. dance was limited to 75 people in what salvation.” In his homily, Bishop Bren- See “Christmas” on Page 3 Year of St. Joseph Brings Special Opportunity to the Diocese By Colleen Rowan St. Joseph as its patron as well. termination to serve God, to meet all the obstacles to WHEELING—Pope Francis’ proclamation of Bishop Mark Brennan said that he is grateful that come, trusting God to help him. the Year of St. Joseph Dec. 8 celebrates the 150th an- the Holy Spirit inspired the pope to have this year “That’s the kind of spirit,” Bishop Brennan niversary of the declaration of the foster father of to focus on the saint’s faith, virtues, and goodness “in said, “that’s what we need to move forward to Jesus as Patron of the Universal Church. This mo- view of our need to renew ourselves as followers of do what we’re supposed to be doing as Catholic ment also brings a special opportunity to the Christ.” Christians—to live our faith and invite others to Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston to celebrate In St. Joseph, the bishop said, we see his faith, de- See “St. Joseph” on Page 3

A Letter from Bishop Brennan, Diocese has Renewed Commitment to ‘Faithful, Fun’ Inside: Page 4 Camping Ministry, New Director Says, Page 7 2 The Catholic Spirit January 1, 2021

Obituary—Hazel Dell Hudock To Report Suspected Cases of Sexual Abuse of Children

Hazel Dell Hudock, age 90, of Wheeling, West Vir- To Report Suspected Cases of Sexual Abuse of Children: The Di- ginia passed away December 22, 2020 at The Welty ocese of Wheeling-Charleston encourages reporting to civil authorities first and foremost if a crime has been committed. We also encourage utiliz- ing Home for the Aged in Wheeling, West Virginia. Hazel www.reportbishopabuse.org to make a report about any bishop in the U.S. If was a native of Five Points, Tennessee. As a young you have reason to believe that a bishop has engaged in sexual misconduct woman she moved to Washington D.C. where she or has interfered with an investigation into sexual misconduct, please contact met Charles (Charlie) J. Hudock, Sr. who became civil authorities in the applicable jurisdiction and visit www.reportbishop- her husband of 45 years. Charlie was a meteorologist abuse.org. in the US Navy. Charlie and Hazel were stationed To Report to Civil Authorities: Contact your local law enforce- with the US Navy in both England and Morocco. ment: numbers will vary based on your location. If you believe someone is in Their family lived in Pensacola Florida, Patuxent immediate danger, call 911. To confidentially report any incidence of suspect- River Maryland, and Rockville, Maryland. Later in life ed child abuse or neglect, including sexual abuse, contact the West Virginia Bu- they moved to Gerrardstown, West Virginia, where they restored an old reau for Children and Families’ Child Protective Services by calling the Child Abuse Hotline at 800.352.6513. You may report anonymously to this hotline country home and ran a bed and breakfast inn. She and Charlie were if you prefer. members of the original congregation of St. Leo’s Catholic Church, in In- To Report to Diocesan Authorities: The diocese encourages report- wood, West Virginia, when it was founded in 1982. Confirmed in the ing to the appropriate civil authorities first and foremost if a crime has been Catholic faith in 1983, Hazel served her parish as an Extraordinary Min- committed. The diocese also encourages reporting to the appropriate church ister of the Holy Eucharist. After Charlie’s death in 1998, Hazel lived in authorities. To report suspected cases of sexual abuse of children by personnel Martinsburg, West Virginia and Wheeling, West Virginia. of the Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston to the Diocese, contact one of the fol- In addition to her husband, Charlie, she was preceded in death by her lowing designees at 1.888.434.6237 or 304.233.0880: Mr. Bryan Minor, ext. parents, Lovick and Leila Dell Thomas of Five Points, Tennessee; five 263; Mr. Tim Bishop, ext. 353; or Very Rev. Dennis Schuelkens, Jr., V.E., ext. 270. brothers, Millard (Ruby) Thomas, James Edgar “J.E.” (Mable) Thomas, You may also call the Diocese’s Office of Safe Environment at 304.230.1504. Emmitt (Marie) Thomas, and Clarence (Eva)Thomas, James Brice (Ellen) You may also call the Diocese’s sexual abuse hotline at 833.230.5656. Com- Thomas and two sisters, Eva Inez (Cilvie) Hale, and Fannie Marie plaint forms are available online at www.dwc.org, click “Diocese” on the menu Thomas. bar, then “Offices,” then “Safe Environment”, then “Download Files and She is survived by her five children: Patti (Dennis) Dmytryk of Port Forms.” The form is titled “Com- plaint Form for Allegations of Sexual Abuse St. Lucie, Florida; Kathryn (Thomas) Herlihy of Morgantown, West Vir- of a Minor.” The form may be returned via U.S. mail to: Office of Safe Environ- ginia; Stevan (Wendy) Hudock of Gerrardstown, West Virginia; Charles ment, Diocese of Wheeling- Charleston, PO Box 230, Wheeling WV 26003. J. (Valerie) Hudock Jr. of Chapel Hill, North Carolina; and Rev. Msgr Paul To Report to the Diocese’s Victim Assistance Coordinator: please Hudock of Wheeling, West Virginia. She is also survived by seven grand- call Dr. Patricia Bailey at 304.242.6988. children: Sean (Kara) Thomas, Kevin (Adriane) Herlihy, Ryan (Sarah) Her- In addition to the methods listed above for reporting sexual abuse, the Di- lihy, Marc Dmytryk, Maureen Dmytryk, Samuel Hudock and Lena Hu- ocese also has partnered with Navex Global to offer the EthicsPoint plat- form dock, and six great-grandchildren. to report other, additional concerns, such as suspected financial, pro- fessional, Hazel’s family would like to thank the staff of the Welty Home for the and personal misconduct of a priest, deacon, religious, or lay employee of the Aged, 21 Washington Ave in Wheeling, for making the last 5 years of her Diocese or any Catholic parish or school in West Virginia. The EthicsPoint plat- form can be accessed via www.dwc.org, under “Account- ability”, then “Report life very enjoyable and happy. Misconduct” or by calling 844.723.8381. EthicsPoint is a third-party reporting A Memorial Mass was celebrated December 30 at St. Vincent de Paul system that reports to civil authorities where applicable and Diocesan au- Parish, Wheeling, with her son Rev. Msgr. Paul Hudock officiating. At a thorities, and the identity of the person reporting is protected. future date, Hazel will be interred next to her husband, Lt. Charles J. Hu- Links and information: WV Department of Health and Human Re- sources: dock, Sr. USN, at Arlington National Cemetery, in Arlington Virginia. https://www.wvdhhr.org/report.asp. West Virginia State Police, Crimes Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.altmeyerfuneral Against Children Unit: 304-293-6400. homes.com. Sexual Abuse Awareness Training The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) requires that all Dioceses/Eparchies have in place a Safe Environment Program for the protection of children and young people. In accordance with these re- quirements, the Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston’s Safe Environment Program consists of the following components for persons seeking em- Place ployment or to volunteer—directly or indirectly—with children: back- ground check; receipt of the Diocese’s Policy Relating to Sexual Abuse of Children; and sexual abuse awareness training for adults. Sexual your abuse awareness training may be completed online or via live work- shop. For more information on the Office of Safe Environment,please Mowing Landscaping Patios Retaining Walls ad go to www.dwc.org, click “Diocese”, then “Offices,” then “Office of Safe Supply Yard here Environment.” Office: 1322 Eoff St. Mailing: PO Box 230 Wheeling, WV 26003 (304) 232-0444 [email protected] (304) 233-0332 Fax: (304) 233-8551 Web site: www.thecatholicspiritwv.org Diocesan Web site: www.dwc.org January 1, Vol. 52, No. 1 Publisher: Bishop Mark E. Brennan...... Executive Editor: Colleen Rowan, Ext. 347 ...... [email protected] Advertising: contact Colleen Rowan Freelance Writers: Martina Hart, John Sherwood, Babette Pascasio Member SERVING THE DIOCESE OF Catholic Press Association WHEELING-CHARLESTON’S PARISHES West Virginia Press Association AND SCHOOLS FOR OVER 2025 YEARS National Press Photographers Association, Inc.

Published 24 times per year. All issues sent to each registered Catholic household free of charge. Donations to help offset the cost of producing The DWC PARISHIONERS VICTOR GRECO AND JULIE DOERR Catholic Spirit are welcomed. Out-of- diocese subscriptions are $25 annually. The Catholic Spirit intends its news reports to be fair and accurate in every regard. The opinions of correspondents do not necessarily reflect the opinions VISIT US @ MILLSGROUPONLINE.COM of The Catholic Spirit. Submission of news releases, stories and color photos welcomed and encouraged. Not responsible for unsolicited material. January 1, 2021 The Catholic Spirit 3

Christmas ... Cont’d from Page 1 engaging us “on our own turf” could only make sense because God is moved by an immense love that surpasses our ability to understand it. “That’s what we celebrate here this evening in the midst of a pandemic,” he said. Bishop Brennan recalled another Christmas Eve in 1223 when near the little town of Greccio, Italy, St. Francis of Assisi set up the first nativity scene in a cave with an ox, a donkey and a feed- ing trough. He invited his friars and the townspeople to come and see what the birth of Christ was like hoping that see- ing the poverty, humility, and simplic- ity in which the Son of God was born would challenge the people’s material- ism. “I wonder if our circumstances this year, as we make our way through the COVID-19 pandemic, might help us to see Francis’ point,” Bishop Brennan Martina Hart Photo said. He went on to describe how the Faithful are gathered at Christmas Eve Mass at the Basilica of the Co-Cathedral of the Sacred Heart in Charleston. pandemic has reduced some of the pageantry that is ordinarily associated and the shepherds, for his love made the lives of other people, praying for thanked all those who had contributed with Christmas: The lack of choir con- visible in the birth of his Son, and to them daily, fasting for them once a to the celebration and especially Bishop certs and caroling, canceling of nativity “be confident that we can handle week, offering up our sufferings and Brennan for spending Christmas at the plays, even church decorations being any other hardship we encounter, good works for them, and then if they Co-Cathedral. scaled down. “Here’s a little taste of pov- because ours is a God who is with give us an opening, we should tell them “It’s great to have you in your south- erty for us this Christmas,” he said. us.” simply and personally why our faith in ern home,” he said. “And we are humbled, or should be, by In addition, he said, loving one Jesus Christ and our belonging to his “It really is a pleasure to celebrate the need to wear these masks all the another is equally important and insep- people matter to us.” this Christmas Mass with you,” Bishop time and to keep washing our hands arable from the love of God. Bishop “Be the shepherds who tell others of Brennan responded. “Despite all of and keep apart from other people, re- Brennan also encouraged the faithful to the Good Shepherd born for them, the these restrictions, we are able to cele- frain from shaking hands and embrac- “proclaim the good news” to others one in whom all their hopes for true brate the sacred mysteries of our faith ing. That’s a humility imposed upon us, who may not yet be aware of God’s love happiness lie,” he concluded. “That’s together and do so safely. … God will but it’s an opportunity to give our atten- for them. the best Christmas present you could bring us through this. God is always tion to the simple, profound meaning “We do not have to bang on give to anyone.” faithful to his people and brings us of Christ’s birth.” Focusing on this real- people’s heads or knock down their Concelebrating the Mass were through the hard times, and he will get ity could be the silver lining in this dark doors,” he said. “But we can share our Very Rev. Donald X. Higgs, Assoc. us through this one.” cloud. faith with them when the opportunity V.F., rector of the basilica, Father Binu Bishop Brennan also presided over Bishop Brennan invited the congre- arises. … We can prepare, like John the Emmanuel, CST, associate rector, and the 9 a.m. Mass at the basilica on gation to praise God, like the angels Baptist, … the way for the Lord to enter Father Leon Alexander. Father Higgs Christmas morning.

saint. Pilgrimages, Kime said, may be held on ing to those who “meditate on the prayer of the St. Joseph ... March 19, the feast of St. Joseph. “That is, if the ‘Our Father’ for at least 30 minutes or take part in Cont’d from Page 1 pandemic has lessened and we are able,” she a spiritual retreat of at least one day that includes share it with us.” stressed. Definite plans will be announced a meditation on St. Joseph.” In his Dec. 8 apostolic letter, “Patris Corde” soon. As a “just man,” the document continued, who (“With a father’s heart”), the pope said Christians Ideas also include special prayers that invoke St. guarded “the intimate secret that lies at the bottom can discover in St. Joseph, who often goes unno- Joseph, activities for families to engage in at home, of the heart and soul,” St. Joseph practiced the vir- ticed, “an intercessor, a support and a guide in and catechetical activities. Msgr. Dean Borgmeyer, tue of justice in “full adherence to the divine law, times of trouble.” V.F., pastor of St. Joseph Parish in Huntington, who which is the law of mercy.” Here, in the Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston, chairs the Presbyteral Council committees, said “Therefore, those who, following the example planning is underway to offer different ways for they have suggested that during each month of the of St. Joseph, will perform a corporal or spiritual the faithful of West Virginia to participate, espe- year focus be put upon a social issue that relates to work of mercy, will also be able to obtain the gift cially in the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. “The the life and influence of St. Joseph such as family of the plenary indulgence,” it said. Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston is excited to cele- life, labor, migration, death and dying. Kime said Indulgences will also be granted to families and brate this Year of St. Joseph and even had plans to the diocese also invites those who are sick, shut-in engaged couples who recite the rosary together initiate it in March, had not Pope Francis promul- or vulnerable to COVID-19 to participate in and thus imitate the “same climate of commun- gated it this month,” Bernadette Kime, director of prayers and activities that are designed to do at ion, love and prayer lived in the Holy Family. “ Worship and Sacraments for the diocese, said just home. Other acts of devotion include entrusting one’s before Christmas. The Apostolic Penitentiary issued a decree Dec. daily activities and prayers for dignified employ- As people of the diocese cannot gather as one 8 stating that plenary indulgences will be granted ment to St. Joseph, reciting the litany or any “legiti- because of COVID-19, different ideas are being dis- to Catholics through prayer and penance, but also mately approved” prayer to St. Joseph. cussed. The diocese’s Presbyteral Council Commit- through acts of justice, charity and piety dedicated During this time of pandemic, the Apostolic tee on Social Justice as well as diocesan staff have to St. Joseph. Penitentiary also decreed that special indulgences been brainstorming on ways that the faithful Among the conditions for receiving an indul- will be granted to the elderly, the sick and all those can celebrate and reflect on St. Joseph and the role gence are a spirit detached from sin, receiving sac- who “for legitimate reasons are prevented from he plays in salvation history, Kime said. Under con- ramental confession as soon as possible, receiving leaving their home” by “reciting an act of piety in sideration are pilgrimages to special places Communion as soon as possible and praying for honor of St. Joseph and committed to fulfilling the dedicated to St. Joseph. Kime said such the Holy Father’s intentions. conditions as soon as possible.” places would include the Cathedral of St. Joseph in The decree also highlighted several ways to ob- (Contributing to this story was Junno Arocho Wheeling and various parishes named for the tain the indulgence throughout the year, in- clud- Esteves of Catholic News Service.) 4 The Catholic Spirit January 1, 2021

A Letter from Bishop Brennan

December 21, 2020

Dear faithful of the Wheeling-Charleston Diocese, sented with a fait accompli: the wrong has already been done and we cannot change it. But because our connection to the wrong- We have reason to be grateful to God that some vaccines are now doing is not material (that is, it did not help cause the wrong) nor being made available to various segments of our American popula- is it close to us in time, we can, if reluctantly, accept a benefit from tion and eventually to all who live here to inoculate them against it. Receiving a COVID-19 vaccine that was tested using a morally the COVID-19 virus. I plan to get vaccinated when it’s my turn and compromised cell line is in that category. I strongly urge all Catholics and other residents of West Virginia to do the same when they have the opportunity. Because abortion is a gravely wrong act, we should always op- pose it and never give the appearance that we approve of it. Ideally, We must remember that in protecting ourselves through an ef- we would avoid even a remote connection to evil. The aforemen- fective vaccine we are also protecting others. Getting vaccinated, tioned Bishops and heads of many other organizations wrote the then, is a way of promoting the common good and putting into Commissioner of the Food and Drug Administration last spring to practice the commandment: Love your neighbor as yourself. urge that vaccines be developed and tested without even a remote connection to abortion. Why don’t you add your voice to theirs? Some questions have arisen about a connection between COVID-19 (Commissioner, FDA, 10903 New Hampshire Ave., Silver Spring, vaccines and abortion. Bishop Kevin Rhoades and Archbishop Joseph MD 20993; or call 888-463-6332.) Fortunately, cell lines that do not Naumann, who chair the US Catholic Bishops’ Conference Committees come from aborted fetuses are available for pharmaceutical com- on Doctrine and Pro-life Activities, respectively, issued a statement declar- panies to use. Some vaccines based on them are in development but ing that neither of the two vaccines now being made available, from Pfizer are not yet ready for production or distribution. In the meantime, and Moderna, used cell lines from aborted fetuses in the design, develop- the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines are morally legitimate to use, ment or production of their vaccines. Each, however used a cell line from given the remoteness of their connection to the aborted babies and an aborted fetus in confirmatory tests to determine the vaccine’s effective- the urgent need to protect ourselves and others from a deadly dis- ness. There is a connection to abortion but it is remote. Citing Roman doc- ease. uments, the Bishops conclude that it is morally permissible to use either of these two vaccines, especially given the gravity of the threat that the A third vaccine, being developed by AstraZeneca, has used a cell COVID-19 virus poses to our people and the lack of other remedies. You line from an aborted baby in its design, development and produc- can read the Bishops’ full statement at https://www.usccb.org/moral-con- tion phases, so it is more immediately tied to an abortion. If at all siderations-covid-vaccines. possible, that vaccine should be avoided. Yet, as the Bishops point out, it may not be possible for the individual to choose which vac- To illustrate why we may in some circumstances benefit from a cine he or she receives, while the danger to the person and to other morally wrong action in which we did not directly participate people remains grave if vaccination is long delayed or refused. Be- and of which we do not approve, I offer a historical analogy. The cause the researchers and producers of the AstraZeneca vaccine did Benedictine Sisters who taught me in high school lived in a convent not abort the unborn child, but used that child’s cell line for their that, in the early nineteenth century, was the home of a slave- work, theirs is a more immediate connection to the evil of abortion owning family in Northeast Washington, DC. In the basement but still not a material cooperation in it. were chains and instruments used to punish slaves who worked on the family’s farm. Were the Sisters giving approval to slavery or While we wait for our vaccinations, we should use the protective the mistreatment of slaves because they lived in that home? measures that can keep us from getting infected with the COVID- Hardly. They supported civil rights and taught and nurtured the 19 virus and from infecting others: washing our hands frequently, descendants of former slaves in the high school. But the Sisters wearing face masks, not shaking hands, maintaining appropriate did benefit from living in a home built and occupied by former physical distancing and avoiding large crowds. slave owners. There is a connection to slavery but a very remote one. Let us continue to pray for the victims of this disease and their families, for our health care personnel and for others susceptible to Jesus told a parable about wheat and weeds (Matthew 13: 24-30). the virus because of their type of work or their age or weak health. The master’s servants came to him to report that weeds were grow- Pray, too, for an end to the pandemic and for a greater appreciation ing among the wheat. “An enemy has done this,” said the master. for the lives of all human beings, from the unborn to the elderly. Should they pull up the weeds? “No,” said the master, “if you pull God has given us life and breath. We ask Him to give us and all up the weeds you might uproot the wheat with them. Let them people good health, so we pray: Jesus, Divine Physician, have pity grow together until harvest.” Then the weeds would be burnt and on your people! the wheat gathered into the barn. Sincerely in Christ, There is wisdom in this parable. We should avoid participating in the evil acts of others but we cannot wall ourselves off from the rest of the world. We will inevitably come into contact with persons and situations that are tainted with evil. We should never give ma- +Mark E. Brennan terial aid to someone doing wrong but we will sometimes be pre- Bishop of Wheeling-Charleston January 1, 2021 The Catholic Spirit 5 Pope on Christmas: Share Hope, Pope Announces Promote Peace, Give Vaccine to All Yearlong Reflection By Cindy Wooden, Catholic News Service on Family, ‘Amoris VATICAN CITY (CNS) — On a Christmas like no other, Pope Francis prayed for people who could not be with their families because of the Laetitia’ COVID-19 pandemic, but he urged everyone to recognize and help those who are suffering even By Junno Arocho Esteves, Catholic News Service more. From inside the Hall of Blessings — a long, As the fifth anniversary of his apostolic exhortation gold-hued room above the atrium of St. Peter’s Ba- “Amoris Laetitia” approaches, Pope Francis announced silica lined on the east with enormous windows that the Catholic Church will dedicate more than a year and balconies facing St. Peter’s Square — Pope to focusing on the family and conjugal love. During his Francis delivered his Christmas message and his Sunday Angelus address Dec. 27, the pope commem- blessing “urbi et orbi” (to the city and the orated the feast of the Holy Family and said that it served world). as a reminder “of the example of evangelizing with the As announced by Cardinal Angelo Comastri, family” as highlighted in his exhortation. archpriest of St. Peter’s Basilica, the solemn bless- Beginning March 19, he said, the year of reflection on ing included a plenary indulgence for everyone CNS Photo/Vatican Media “Amoris Laetitia” will be an opportunity “to focus more watching on television, listening by radio or fol- Pope Francis delivers his Christmas message closely on the contents of the document.” lowing by computer. and blessing “urbi et orbi” (to the city and the “I invite everyone to take part in the initiatives that Because of Italy’s renewed lockdown to slow world) Dec. 25. will be promoted during the year and that will be the spread of the virus, the pope read his message coordinated by the Dicastery for Laity, the Family and in the presence of a representative group of about nomic and social imbalances only worsened by Life,” he added. “Let us entrust this journey, with families 50 people. The tens of thousands of people who the coronavirus pandemic.” As children of God all over the world, to the Holy Family of Nazareth, in par- usually would throng the square for the midday and brothers and sisters to one another, the pope ticular to St. Joseph, the devoted spouse and father.” Ac- appointment Dec. 25 were all ordered to be at said, the kinship existing between everyone is not cording to the dicastery’s website, the “Amoris Laetitia home, and St. Peter’s Square was closed to the pub- sentimental, but is “grounded in genuine love, Family” year “aims to reach every family around the lic. making it possible for me to encounter others dif- world through several spiritual, pastoral and cultural pro- “My thoughts at this moment turn to families: ferent from myself, feeling compassion for their posals that can be implemented within parishes, dio- to those who cannot come together today and to sufferings, drawing near to them and caring for ceses, universities, ecclesial movements and family asso- those forced to remain at home,” the pope said. them even though they do not belong to my ciations.” “May Christmas be an opportunity for all of us to family, my ethnic group or my religion.” The dicastery said that the goals of the celebration in- rediscover the family as a cradle of life and faith, “For all their differences, they are still my clude sharing the contents of the apostolic exhortation a place of acceptance and love, dialogue, forgive- brothers and sisters,” he said “The same thing is more widely, proclaiming the gift of the sacrament of ness, fraternal solidarity and shared joy, a source of true of relationships between peoples and na- marriage and enabling families to “become active agents peace for all humanity.” tions.” of the family apostolate.” In a last-minute addition to his text, Pope Fran- Pope Francis prayed that the newborn Jesus The “Amoris Laetitia Family” year will include cis called for “vaccines for all,” especially the would help everyone “be generous, supportive forums, symposiums, video projects and catechesis as world’s most vulnerable people. “At Christmas, we and helpful, especially toward those who are vul- well as providing resources for family spirituality, pasto- celebrate the light of Christ that comes into the nerable — the sick, those unemployed or experi- ral formation and marriage preparation. world, and he comes for all, not just for some,” the encing hardship due to the economic effects of The commemoration will conclude June 26, 2022, pope said. “Today, at this time of darkness and un- the pandemic, and women who have suffered “on the occasion of the World Meeting of Families in certainty because of the pandemic, there appear domestic violence during these months of lock- Rome,” the dicastery said. In his Angelus talk, the pope different lights of hope, such as the discovery of down.” said that the Holy Family is a model in which “all families vaccines.” Migrants, refugees and the innocent victims of of the world can find their sure point of reference and “But so these lights may illuminate and bring wars around the world were also on the pope’s sure inspiration.” Through them, he said, “we are called light to the whole world, they must be available to mind as he celebrated the birth of the Prince of to rediscover the educational value of the family unit; it all,” he said. “I cannot put myself before others, Peace. The faces of the suffering children in Syria, must be founded on the love that always regenerates re- placing the laws of the market and of patents Iraq and Yemen, he said, should touch people’s lationships, opening up horizons of hope.” above the law of love and the health of humanity.” consciences and make them pray and work for Families can experience sincere communion when Pope Francis pleaded with the leaders of govern- peace. “May the Babe of Bethlehem grant the gift they live in prayer, when forgiveness prevails over dis- ments, pharmaceutical companies and interna- of fraternity to the land that witnessed his birth,” cord and “when the daily harshness of life is softened by tional agencies “to promote cooperation and not the pope said. “May Israelis and Palestinians re- mutual tenderness and serene adherence to God’s will,” competition” in ensuring the widespread avail- gain mutual trust and seek a just and lasting peace he added. “I would like to say something to you: If you ability of the vaccines. through a direct dialogue capable of ending vio- quarrel within the family, do not end the day without Peace and family — in the sense that all people lence and overcoming endemic grievances, and making peace,” the pope said. “And do you know why? are brothers and sisters — were the central themes thus bear witness before the world to the beauty of Because cold war, day after day, is extremely dangerous. of the pope’s message, echoing the teaching in his fraternity.” It does not help.” encyclical “Fratelli Tutti, on Fraternity and Social Pope Francis also made specific pleas for recon- Pope Francis also reflected on the theme of forgive- Friendship.” ciliation and an end to conflicts in eastern Uk- ness during his Angelus address on the feast of “A birth is always a source of hope; it is life that raine, Nagorno-Karabakh, Ethiopia, northern Mo- St. Stephen Dec. 26. Recalling St. Stephen’s martyrdom, blossoms, a promise of the future,” he said. But zambique, South Sudan, Nigeria and Cameroon. the pope said that although it may seem that his death Jesus’ birth is even more powerful since he was “May the Eternal Word of the Father be a source of was in vain, among those who witnessed and consented born “‘to us’ — an ‘us’ without any borders, priv- hope for the American continent, particularly af- to his stoning was St. Paul, who eventually became “the ileges or exclusions. The child born of the Virgin fected by the coronavirus, which has intensified its greatest missionary in history.” Mary in Bethlehem was born for everyone: he is many sufferings, frequently aggravated by the ef- St. Stephen’s example “was the seed” of St. Paul’s con- the ‘son’ that God has given to the entire human fects of corruption and drug trafficking,” he version, he said. “This is the proof that loving actions family.” prayed. “May he help to ease the recent social ten- change history: even the ones that are small, hidden, “Thanks to this child, we can all call one sions in Chile and end the sufferings of the people every day.” Christians, he added, can become witnesses another brothers and sisters, for so we truly are,” of Venezuela.” of Christ through their everyday actions, “even just by the pope said. “We come from every continent, Praising those who “work to bring hope, com- fleeing the shadow of gossip” or refusing to speak ill of from every language and culture, with our own fort and help to those who suffer and those who others. “When an argument starts at home, instead of identities and differences, yet we are all brothers are alone,” the pope insisted that Jesus’ birth “tells trying to win it, let’s try to diffuse it,” and forgive one and sisters.” Recognizing that connection, he said, us that pain and evil are not the final word. To be- another, Pope Francis said. Small efforts and gestures, he is even more important “at this moment in his- come resigned to violence and injustice would be said, “change history because they open the door, they tory, marked by the ecological crisis and grave eco- to reject the joy and hope of Christmas.” open the window to Jesus’s light.” 6 The Catholic Spirit January 1, 2021

Vatican Calls for Equitable COVID-19 Over 40 Pro-Life Leaders Call Vaccine Distribution

VATICAN CITY (CNS)—The Vatican’s coronavirus commis- on Senate to Reject Biden’s sion and the Pontifical Academy for Life issued a joint statement calling for a coordinated international effort to ensure the equitable distribution of COVID-19 vaccines worldwide. The doc- Nominee to Head HHS ument highlights the “critical role of vaccines to defeat the pandemic, not just for individual personal health but to protect the By Julie Asher, Catholic News Service one, particularly the most vulnerable.” health of all,” the Vatican said in a statement accompanying the WASHINGTON (CNS) — Over 40 Currently, he is the head attorney in a document Dec. 29. “The Vatican commission and the Pontifical prominent pro-life leaders called on the U.S. group of attorneys general from Democratic- Academy of Life remind world leaders that vaccines must be pro- Senate Dec. 21 to reject President-elect led states defending ACA law against the vided to all fairly and equitably, prioritizing those most in need,” Joe Biden’s nomination of California Trump administration’s lawsuit to have it the Vatican said. The pandemic has exacerbated “a triple threat of Attorney General Xavier Becerra to head the overturned. simultaneous and interconnected health, economic and socio-eco- U.S. Department of Health and Human Serv- A native of Sacramento, California, logical crises that are disproportionately impacting the poor and ices. Becerra was sworn in Jan. 24, 2017, as the vulnerable,” the document said. “As we move toward a just re- “Mr. Becerra carries a national reputation California’s 33rd attorney general. He’s the covery, we must ensure that immediate cures for the crises become for his vehement, unwavering support for first Latino to hold the office in the history stepping-stones to a more just society, with an inclusive and inter- abortion, including in the ninth month, his of the state. He succeeded Kamala Harris, dependent set of systems.” Pope Francis established the COVID-19 staunch convictions in opposition to con- now vice president-elect, in the post after commission in April with the goal of expressing “the church’s con- science rights for medical professionals, and she was elected to the U.S. Senate Nov. 8, cern and love for the entire human family in the face of the of his hostile opinions regarding the freedoms 2016. COVID-19 pandemic.” The new document issued a set of objec- of religious organizations, among other is- Other objections to Becerra raised by the tives, particularly around making the vaccines “available and ac- sues that are of major concern to us,” the pro-life leaders is his involvement in litiga- cessible to all.” Part of that process, the document said, would be leaders said in a letter to senators. Becerra, tion to revoke the Little Sisters of the Poor’s to consider how to reward those who developed the vaccine and who was nominated by Biden Dec. 7, must be religious exemption to the ACA contracep- repay “the research costs and risks companies have taken on,” confirmed by the Senate. He would be the tive mandate in the state of California. while also recognizing the vaccine “as a good to which everyone first Latino to be HHS secretary and would be Becerra had sued the Trump administra- should have access, without discrimination.” Biden’s chief health care officer. tion for expanding the religious exemption Pro-life leaders who signed the letter in- to the ACA’s contraceptive mandate in 2017 cluded the heads of March for Life, Students to fully accommodate the Little Sisters of the Maryland Catholic Conference Urges for Life Action, Family Research Council, Poor’s refusal on religious grounds to cover Trump to Stop a Federal Execution Susan B. Anthony List, National Right to Life, contraceptives and abortifacients in their Live Action, Dr. James Dobson Family Insti- employee health care plan. WASHINGTON (CNS) — Eight Catholic bishops serving tute, Center for Medical Progress, And Then He argued the federal government was in- Maryland dioceses urged President Donald Trump Dec. 22 to stop There were None and National Institute of serting itself into the state’s “sovereign duty” the planned federal execution of Dustin Higgs, a Maryland man on Family & Life Advocates. to protect women’s “reproductive rights.” death row in Indiana. The bishops, including Cardinal Wilton D. The group cited Planned Parenthood and The religious order ultimately prevailed Gregory of Washington, Baltimore Archbishop William E. Lori and NARAL Pro-Choice America’s 100% rating on July 8 of this year when the Supreme Bishop W. Francis Malooly of Wilmington, Delaware, also wrote to for Becerra’s record on abortion during his 25 Court ruled 7-2 in their favor in a similar Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan seeking his support in fighting this ex- years in Congress. challenge from Pennsylvania. But California ecution, which is scheduled to take place Jan. 15. In their letter to Among other actions as a House member, is still working to take away their exemption Trump, the bishops wrote: “Alternative sentences, such as life with- Becerra voted against the Partial-Birth Abor- as upheld by the court. out parole, are punishments through which society can be kept tion Ban Act, the Born-Alive Abortion Survi- “His bias for anti-life, anti-religion policy safe. The death penalty does not create a path to justice. Rather, it vors Protection Act and the Pain-Capable is apparent, and he should be rejected to contributes to the growing disrespect for human life and perpetu- Unborn Child Protection Act, which would serve as a national department head,” the ates a cycle of violence in our society.” They also quoted Pope Fran- prevent abortions after 20 weeks of preg- pro-life leaders said. cis, who said: “Human justice is imperfect, and the failure to rec- nancy when, the bill said, extensive evidence Their letter to the Senate follows a na- ognize its fallibility can transform it into a source of injustice.” In shows an unborn child is capable of feeling tional petition by Students for Life Action pe- a letter to Hogan, a Republican, the bishops said they were proud great pain.” He also voted against the Con- tition urging Becerra not be confirmed. The of the state’s leadership in ending the death penalty and urged him science Protection Act of 2016, which would group outlined the same issues as the pro-life to “intervene with the Trump administration to ask that this execu- have prevented the federal government from leaders but highlighted the HHS nominee tion be stopped.” denying federal funds to Catholic hospitals joining in a friend-of-the-court-brief earlier and other facilities that refuse to perform this year challenging the Food and Drug Ad- abortions. ministration’s requirement the abortion pill Argentina Legalizes Abortion during First Becerra also worked in 2009 to get the be dispensed in-person. The brief argued that 14 Weeks of Pregnancy Obama administration’s Affordable Care Act because the pandemic was severely limiting through Congress, leading to its successful in-person visits to doctors and pharmacists, MEXICO CITY (CNS) — Argentina has legalized abortion dur- passage in 2010. As California’s attorney gen- women seeking a chemical abortion were ing the first 14 weeks of pregnancy, despite strong Catholic oppo- eral, he has defended the ACA in court. being denied their rightful access to the abor- sition and polls showing deep divisions on the issue. The Senate ap- Those who support his nomination to tion pill. “Consensus is a rare thing in polit- proved the bill 38-29 Dec. 30 after a 12-hour debate as supporters head HHS say he has spent his career spent ical life these days, especially when it comes with green handkerchiefs and opponents with blue handkerchiefs “fighting for underserved communities” to what’s needed to address COVID-19,” Kris- awaited the decision in the streets during the small hours of the and his efforts “to protect the welfare of im- tan Hawkins, president of Students for Life morning. President Alberto Fernández presented legislation in No- migrants and migrants.” Action, wrote in a Dec. 12 online op-ed for vember — it was quickly approved in the lower house — and has Mercy Sister Mary Haddad, who is pres- RealClear Politics. But, she wrote, “one idea promised to sign it into law. The bishops’ conference expressed dis- ident and CEO of the Catholic Health Asso- has emerged from the abortion lobby as their appointment with the legislation’s approval, but said in a Dec. 30 ciation, called Becerra “a strong partner with solution to the pandemic. It’s being pushed statement it “will continue working with firmness and passion in CHA in defending the Affordable Care Act through by the media and liberal, political es- the care and service of life.” “This law which has been passed will and for advocating for greater access to qual- tablishment, and that is the expansion and further deepen divisions in our country,” the bishops said. “We ity, affordable health care coverage for every- deregulation of the chemical abortion pill deeply regret the remoteness of our leaders from the feelings of the market for DIY abor- people, which have been expressed in various ways, in favor of life, We Are Now A Full Service Hardware Store! tions.” Others have throughout our country.” The bishops also pledged to “continue criticized Biden’s working on the authentic priorities requiring urgent attention in We Also Specialize n Plumbing, Heating & Cooling choice of Becerra be- our country: children living in poverty in increasingly alarming Lou W. Nau, Inc. cause the nominee has numbers, a number of (those children) dropping out of school 69 Edgington Lane, Wheeling Phone (304) 242-6311 no front-line experience (and) the urgent pandemic of hunger and unemployment, which in the medical field. louwnau.doitbest.com affects many families.” January 1, 2021 The Catholic Spirit 7 Diocese has Renewed Charleston Catholic Students Commitment to ‘Faithful, Fun’ Camping Ministry, Steadfast in Commitment to New Director Says Outreach in Clay County By Colleen Rowan WHEELING—The Dio- cese of Wheeling- Charleston announced last month the reopening of its summer youth camping ministry in Huttonsville with a new name and new leadership. Blessed Carlo Acutis Youth Camp, Camp Carlo for short, is named for the recently Courtesy Photo beatified Italian teen Riley Keaton, camping who died in 2006. Bear- director for the Diocese ing the motto, “With of Wheeling-Charleston Him on the Mountain,” Camp Carlo will open this summer led by Director Riley Keaton. Under this new name, Keaton said, the diocese’s has renewed its commitment to “faithful, fun” camping ministry to reflect the vision for camp life in Hut- tonsville. “Blessed Carlo Acutis is a model for young people seeking to grow in holiness,” he said. “As the first ‘millennial’ to be beatified, Blessed Carlo offers a Courtesy Photo unique intercessor to those seeking to lead young Charleston Catholic High School teachers and students deliver Christmas food boxes to Risen people to Christ.” Lord Mission’s food pantry in Maysel. Keaton encouraged all to research Blessed Carlo and pray for his intercession on behalf of By Colleen Rowan nent information and assigns pick-up times for the camping ministry, which the diocese sees as an MAYSEL—For almost 30 years Charleston families to managing the logistics of how almost important part of formation of Catholic youth. Catholic High School has helped to bring 400 presents will be collected, organized and Camping ministry, Keaton said, offers unique Christmas to children and families in need liv- packed. opportunities for young people to deepen their ing in one of West Virginia’s poorest counties. In relationship with Christ and His Church, adven- the small community of Maysel in Clay County ture through His Creation, and build a solid is Risen Lord Mission, and its food pantry is one “It is important for our stu- foundation of Catholic relationships across the of the only places residents who have fallen on state. hard times can find food and assistance. dents to be aware of the “Blessed Carlo Acutis Youth Camp will be an ad- Each year, Charleston Catholic students and venture like no other and a model of authentic Cath- teachers make the 45-minute trip to Risen Lord need in West Virginia and olic community life,” he said. with Christmas food boxes, toys, stockings recognizing how they can In regard to what changes families and campers stuffed with goodies, and other provisions for can expect with the reopening, Keaton said: the people. use their gifts and blessings “The lay of the land will be much clearer the closer we “This project truly involves the whole get to summertime, but I anticipate we will be taking Charleston Catholic community,” said Princi- to help meet the needs in precautions related to the coronavirus.” He said the pal Colleen Hoyer. The effort, she said, also in- camp is deeply committed to modeling au- cludes help from Sacred Heart Grade School our state.” thentic Catholic community life, leading young next door as well as the schools’ teachers and —Colleen Hoyer, principal of people into encounter with Christ, while having staff working together to reach out to the people Charleston Catholic High School fun. in need. Keaton is from Spencer, where he is a member of “This year, Sacred Heart put together 150 Holy Redeemer Parish. The diocese’s Evangelization food boxes! Charleston Catholic added just over Limited this year to what they could do be- and Catechesis Director Daniel Maul said that Keaton 100, so we distributed over 250 food boxes to cause of the coronavirus pandemic, the students has led values-based leadership camps for the last 135 families and almost 400 children,” Hoyer were determined to do all they could. They were four years—including through the summer of coro- said. not able to host their annual Christmas party at navirus—and represents his hometown in the West The partnership with Risen Lord, Hoyer said, Risen Lord, but they still made the annual jour- Virginia House of Delegates. was started by longtime former CCHS Principal ney to deliver presents Dec. 12 with a drive by “I urge faithful families to get in touch with him,” Debra Sulllivan. Since then, every Charleston distribution. Maul said of Keaton, “learn more about what we’re Catholic student in grades six through 12 is in- In normal times, Hoyer said, senior volun- planning in Huttonsville this summer, and, ulti- volved in the project each year. They bring in teers attend the Christmas party and help dis- mately, give your children an experience that will stockings and stocking stuffers, buy food items tribute the presents, stockings, and food boxes. ‘make’ their summer at Camp Carlo.” for food boxes, and shop for an individual child This year’s seniors helped collect and organize In making the announcement of the reopening of from Clay County with that child’s specific presents during their theology classes the day the diocese’s camp ministry, Maul said, “Catholic wants, needs, and sizes, Hoyer said. Teachers before the trip and a group of senior volunteers youth will have a tremendous opportunity to deepen manage the food and present collection in helped load the trucks with food boxes and pres- their faith, experience His creation, and build lasting homeroom classes and getting everything ents after school. relationships with Catholic peers from across the bagged and labeled. Several staff members take “It’s a tremendous undertaking,” Hoyer said, state.” on additional responsibilities, she said, from “but it is one of the most important things that For more information about Camp Carlo, contact data entry of all of the children’s information to we do every year. Though this year presented Keaton by e-mail at [email protected]. organizing reports that outline all of the perti- See “Students” on Page 10 8 The Catholic Spirit January 1, 2021 Sister Mugore Finishes Nursing Degree

By Martina Hart CHARLESTON—Sister Placxedece Mugore, SJI, recently graduated from the School of Nursing at the Uni- versity of Charleston (UC). “It was a tough journey, but I thank God that I man- aged to sail through,” she said. Sister Mugore is one of the four Sisters of the Infant Jesus residing in Charleston. Since her arrival in the U.S. in 2013 she had been working in the parish at the Basilica of the Co-Cathedral of the Sacred Heart with plans to eventually further her studies and resume her nursing career. “I have a passion for the sick,” said Sister Mugore. “I just love to help the sick.” In her native Zimbabwe, she had worked as a nurse in a very busy Catholic clinic for two and half years. In 2016, after taking the Test of Essen- tial Academic Skills for nursing, she started out with pre- requisite classes, such as alge- bra and American history. A lot of her challenges were cultural in nature, having to re- learn terminology in Ameri- can English versus the British English she was used to, using computers on a daily basis, and adjusting to a different learning system. “We don’t do multiple choice questions,” she ex- Martina Hart Photo plained. “In our country, Sister Placxedece Mugore, SJI, recently graduated from the School of Nursing at the University of Charleston. when you’re taking exams they can say ‘draw and label the heart’.” dents, they had no clue what opportunity to work part class would graduate in May the Infant Jesus in Charleston Due to a lack of physi- a nun is.” time and go to school,” she 2021. was to give some of them an cians, nurses in Zimbabwe She was grateful for the said. Also, the other sisters in The coronavirus pan- opportunity to further their also carry more responsibil- scholarships she received to her community had to adjust demic posed another chal- education, thus enabling ities which include diagnos- cover her tuition, including to her new schedule which af- lenge with some of the clini- them to support their congre- ing patients and prescribing those from UC and the fected their daily household cal rotations at local area hos- gation back home and even- medications. Charleston Area Medical routines. While appreciating pitals being canceled, classes tually use their skills in their “I used to deliver five chil- Center with whom she has an the support from her super- taking place online, and a vir- native country. dren a day,” she added. “I agreement to continue to iors and congregation back tual graduation ceremony on Sister Mugore has paved knew that area very well.” work for another three years. home as well as the parish Dec. 12. After visiting her the way for other sisters to fol- Sister Mugore enjoyed the She also received a stipend and school communities family and congregation in low in her footsteps. small school atmosphere at from the Diocese of Wheel- here, she also felt a certain Zimbabwe for two months, UC. “Everyone was so ex- ing-Charleston to purchase pressure to work hard and she will return to Charleston cited,” she said. “Some of the textbooks. persevere in order to pass and to take her final board teachers were saying, ‘This is “I’m also grateful to not disappoint anyone. Sister exams and start working at the first time we have a nun at Father Don (Higgs, rector of Mugore took summer classes CAMC. One of the goals our school,’ and some stu- the basilica) who gave me the in order to finish early—her envisioned for the Sisters of

Place your ad here January 1, 2021 The Catholic Spirit 9

Msgr. Sadie Celebrates 90th Birthday at His Beloved Former Parish, Basilica Co-Cathedral

By Martina Hart homily. “And for this I want to ex- had never thought much of Jesus’ sgr. P. Edward Sadie, P.A., press my thanks to Father Higgs, saying to “pray without ceasing” V.F., S.T.L., rector emeritus Father Binu, Father Leon for com- but now is using any time he is free Mof the Basilica of the ing to concelebrate, the parish of activity to pray. Co-Cathedral of the Sacred Heart staff, my secretary and all those “I pray the Angelus three times in Charleston, celebrated his who arranged this wonderful occa- a day,” he said. “Partly as a penance 90th birthday on Dec. 15 with sion.” for my past sins and also in grat- Mass at the basilica. Concelebrants He had been celebrating private itude to God, his Blessed Mother were Very Rev. Donald X. Higgs, Masses at home but had been and all the saints.” Assoc. V.F., rector of the basilica; advised not to invite anyone else. He invited the congregation Father Binu Emmanuel, CST, asso- “I guess it’s not easy to attain the “amid the trials and tribulations” ciate rector; and Father Leon Alex- age of 90,” he said. “But all I had to to think of the many blessings they ander. do was keep breathing.” Since experience day in and day out and Due to current COVID precau- many had asked about his health, recognizing “the risen Christ who tions, attendance was restricted to he gave an account of the various comes to us through those around 75 participants, and reservations surgeries and hospital stays since us.” had filled up quickly. Thanks to Martina Hart Photo his retirement. “I have been After Communion, the Sisters Facebook livestream, many others Msgr. P. Edward Sadie offers his homily blessed in so many ways,” he said. of the Infant Jesus sang the were able to be virtually present in- for the Mass he celebrated on his 90th “And I can’t tell you how much I Magnificat in Shona, their native cluding current parishioners, birthday at the Basilica of the Co-Ca- appreciate God’s graces in my own Zimbabwean language. Upon former parishioners who had thedral of the Sacred Heart in Charles- life.” Msgr. Sadie’s invitation, their moved out of state, as well as ton. He was most grateful congregation had opened a con - Msgr. Sadie’s extended family, mul- for the healthcare system in vent in Charleston in 2013. Mass tiple nieces and nephews, in Ala- Charleston and for the Diocese concluded with the final blessing bama. where he served until his retire- of Wheeling-Charleston in pro- and everyone singing Happy Birth- Ordained to the priesthood ment from active priesthood in viding good health insurance to day. in 1957, Msgr. Sadie arrived 2016. their priests. “I do appreciate your prayers in Charleston in 1969, being as- “It’s a true blessing for me to “Prayer has sustained me these and support,” Msgr. Sadie said. signed first to St. Agnes Parish and celebrate this sacred Mass in the last few months,” Msgr. Sadie con- “And be assured of my continued then in 1980 to Sacred Heart Parish church,” Msgr. Sadie said in his tinued. He acknowledged that he prayers.” Princeton Parish’s Michael Mills Releases First Piano Album Faith Has Inspired His Music for the young musician. “It was originally just the arpeggio and melody,” Mills said. “There was a sadness to it, By Joyce Bibey but I also wanted there to be a bit of hope as PRINCETON—Michael Mills is proud of his well. A few years later, I used aspects of that roots which are grounded in faith and led him same music for a short film as part of a film scor- to his first piano solo album, Reflections of ing competition (and named it ‘Past’). I loved Home. the melody and really wanted to find a way to The role his faith has played in his music and use it more. Flash forward a few more years, and creative drive may be indescribable with words I finally found the opportunity to fully write out but is felt through his music. and develop the song for the album Reflections “One of the songs on the album—Past—was of Home.” beautifully inspired by Father Elpidio Geneta, a When our world shut down in March of 2020 former priest at our church,” said Gina Boggess, due to the pandemic, Mills became serious faith formation director of Sacred Heart Parish about putting his compositions together in an in Princeton. “Father ‘El’ had shared with the album. His composed his final pieces by August congregation one Sunday that his brother had and polished all the recordings and sheet music passed away and he could not attend his funeral Courtesy Photo by November. in the Philippines. That day Michael composed Pictured is Michael Mills, who released his first “I believe deeply in the idea that my entire a song based on the grief and emotions of the solo piano album. personhood informs my art,” Mills said. “Since priest.” my faith is an integral part of who I am as a per- Mills was an altar server and active in both Creek Publishing, LLC. He is also sharing his son, it makes sense that it has a large role in the the parish music ministry and youth group. love of music by teaching piano and giving com- music I compose. Sometimes this influence is Sacred Heart Parish proudly boasts of Mills’ position lessons. clear. Silent Adoration was written for a church “tremendous talents.” They have kept tabs on He developed Tom’s Creek Publishing as a service and even has many references to some of him through his years at Virginia Tech, where he way of self-publishing his original music and the church songs I loved hearing on Sundays as majored in music composition and technology, aims to expand it “to provide opportunities for a child. and applauded him from afar, when he per- composers at the beginning of their career and “Memento Mori for flute and cello was com- formed his music throughout Europe, Boggess composers from underrepresented commu- posed as an actual practice of Memento Mori noted. nities,” he said. In addition, he has his sights on and was inspired by the writings of Sister Ale- “We can all be inspired by Mills and see how obtaining a Doctor of Musical Arts degree or theia Noble (of the Daughters of St. Paul and young people from our diocese are “doing great Ph.D. in Music Composition. founder of the Memento Mori project),” Mills things in the world,” Boggess said. The song that was inspired by Father Geneta said. “In other instances, the influence may be Mills is living in Blacksburg, Virginia, and did not even have a title when Mills played it at less clear but nonetheless present. Since my since graduation from Virginia Tech in 2019 has a church. However, it ended up as the founda- faith informs my perspective on life it makes founded his own publishing company, Tom’s tion of what was to be an impressive production See “Mills” on Page 15 10 The Catholic Spirit January 1, 2021

Spreading Christmas Cheer

By Katie Hinerman Klug, Catholic or donated to help make other families’ Charities West Virginia Marketing holidays a little brighter! Communications Specialist To learn more about Catholic Charities While this year has looked a little dif- West Virginia, visit www.Catholic Chari- ferent, the spirit of giving at Christmas- tiesWV.org. time remained the same. The Mission of Catholic Charities West In addition to the continuum of serv- Virginia: Guided by God’s love, Catholic ices Catholic Charities West Virginia pro- Charities collaborates with community vides across the state, several of our offices partners, parishes and families to provide also provided special Christmas distribu- caring and compassionate services to tions. people in need and work toward lasting We are grateful to all who volunteered and meaningful change.

Courtesy Photo Courtesy Photo The Catholic Charities West Virginia Princeton Office partnered with 80’s Toys of Catholic Charities West Virginia staff and volunteers, pictured above, Princeton and J&J News to provide Christmas toys to families in need. Matthew Col- prepared holiday food bags for seniors who are homebound in the lins (left), owner of 80’s Toys stands with Matt Atwood (right), Catholic Charities West Romney area. The bags provide easy to prepare food for days when Virginia Southern Regional director. weather prohibits hot meal deliveries.

Meeting the CCHS entourage each year at Risen blessing. We thank them and look forward to next Students ... Lord is parishioner Kathi Linkenogger. She has been year.” Cont’d from Page 7 involved in this partnership since it started all those Risen Lord’s food pantry also serves more than 100 additional logistical challenges due to COVID, I years ago and knows the positive impact it has. children from Clay Elementary School with food and couldn’t imagine not doing it. We work hard “If this annual event had not occurred, 135 emergency assistance. With the only grocery store in at Charleston Catholic to instill in young people the families would not have been blessed,” she said, not- the county closing more than a year ago, the food pan- importance of serving our neighbors and doing our ing that the students also brought extra food for the try’s presence has become vital. part to make the world a better place. Need is food pantry which serves more than 200 families The pantry also helps people in emergency situ- even greater this year because of the economic im- monthly. “They complete this all in less than two ations and in need of assistance for utility cut off no- pacts of the pandemic, and our community was hours, and then hop back in their cars back home,” tice, medical/pharmacy bills, and gasoline. committed to participating. It is important for our she said. Those who would like to offer their support students to be aware of the need in West Virginia Linkenogger said she and the community appreci- as well, should first call Father Thien Duc Nguyen, and recognizing how they can use their gifts and ate what the students do each year, calling pastor, at (304) 364-5895 or or e-mail: blessings to help meet the needs in our state.” The Charleston Catholic a synchronized team using their [email protected]. students were assisted by faculty and staff volunteers time, talents and treasure. “We are truly blessed To offer financial support, checks may be made out who met the trucks (donated by Buzz Food Service) at because they are providing Christmas to many,” to and sent to: Risen Lord Catholic Social Concern the church on Saturday morning to unpack and or- she said. “They have passed this through generations Fund, c/o: St. Thomas Catholic Church, 624 Kanawha ganize. of helping on their end and Clay receiving the St., Gassaway, WV 26624. January 1, 2021 The Catholic Spirit 11

Joyce Bibey Photo Above is a screen shot of the Christmas message from the Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston on the diocese’s website: www.dwc.org. Strong Faith Presented in Song

By Joyce Bibey parishioners, the state, and Bishop Brennan. She said making time to be part of the production e are blessed in the Diocese of Wheeling- “This video vividly shows the assembly of God’s was important to her to not only bring joy to people Charleston with countless parishioners people – from every walk of life – under the humble in the season of Christmas, but also to encourage Wwho share their musical talents each week leadership of His earthly shepherd, Bishop Brennan,” them to live like Christ taught us. at Mass. Since we are in the midst of a pandemic their said Haas, who also serves as the director of music for “I also believe that as I have become a mother to voices and instruments have nearly been silenced. the Co-Cathedral of the Sacred Heart in Charleston. now five children I have had to lean on God through However, more than 40 faithful from around the state “My hope is that this video might kindle a fire in many my ministry to my children. ‘Hallelujah’ is Hebrew for believe that when you are given a gift from God you hearts, and perhaps bring some sheep back home.” “Praise God.” The song describes the coming Joy and know you need to share that gift no matter what. He said the video was a chance to live out what Love that is God himself. ‘With every breath I’m sing- They collaborated with Bishop Mark Brennan to “sing God teaches us, especially in Psalm 100: We are His ing, Hallelujah,’ is an action I hope to inspire my own and make music from the heart to the Lord (Ephesians people, the sheep of His flock. children to take every day of their lives.” 5:19).” “It’s hard to be Christian in today’s world,” Haas Stephen Pishner, music director for All Saints Par- This gift of song was presented as a Christmas mes- said. “Sometimes I feel like the only one ‘plowing the ish in Bridgeport, said those I the music ministry take sage video to all the faithful in West Virginia. These in- field.’ This video is a reminder to me that the Church pride in bringing a heightened message from Christ to dividuals and all those who they represent in the of God has many members, but one body. The eye or the people through song during the Mass and special music ministries in our parishes epitomize Fai- the hand can’t say to the body, ‘I don’t need you!’ We performances outside the Mass. thInWV! need each other. And this video, which demonstrates “We have a unique role to help people and “Despite all the challenges everyone has faced this the active faith in West Virginia, is something we all (through this and our parish videos) give them hope,” past year, our faith is still strong among Catholics in needed to see this Christmas. Hallelujah!” he said. “It’s a humbling experience. It is our gift to WV,” Katie Shaffer, of St. Paul Parish in Weirton said. Haas’s wife, a music teacher at Sacred Heart Grade people and God.” “Being able to ‘come together’ in the Christmas video School in Charleston, eagerly shared her gift of song See “Song” on Page 12 from all over the state, representing different parishes with the faithful in West Virginia. and age groups, proves we are not alone on this faith “The song is about the story of Jesus coming at journey, even though physical distancing has kept us Christmas time to bring a renewed hope to the world apart. We are stronger together even if virtually. This and how we can give praise and thanksgiving to God year some of us may not be able to perform in parishes for the gift of his Son,” she said. “My faith has always like we normally do, as cantors or instrumentalists been the most important thing in my life. I was due to the COVID-19 parish restrictions, but we found brought up in the Church and began singing when I Do you know an exceptional Catholic in a way to make to make beautiful music together de- was nine years old at the Cathedral of St. Joseph, West Virginia, someone or a group who are spite the pandemic. We are open to new ways of cele- Wheeling. It was there that I started ministering shining examples of #Faith InWV? Email brating our faith and not losing faith during difficult through music which has allowed me to pray openly Joyce Bibey your feature idea to times.” to my community that I belong to. Just like I tell my [email protected]. Visit FaithInWV.org and Mark Haas, who helped orchestrate the produc- students at school using the words of St. Augustine, every issue of The Catholic Spirit to read more tion and played the timpani (kettle drum), said all ‘When you sing you pray twice.’ That has always rung inspiring stories. who participated were eager to do so for their fellow true for me.” 12 The Catholic Spirit January 1, 2021

pened in my life as a result of the pan- Catholic Crossword Puzzle Song ... demic.” Cont’d from Page 11 Those involved in the video in- Puzzle solution on Page 13 Sharing the gift of music is always clude: Mark Haas (Cross Lanes), Chris special, but in this case, it was a spirit- Cendana (Ona), Joey Carter (Wheel- ually moving experience, according ing), Robert Phipps (Morgantown), to Shaffer. Audrey Blust (Huntington), children “To be able to collaborate with mu- from Sacred Heart Grade School sicians from across the state who I (Charleston), Hannah Dieffen- don’t get to perform with regularly baugher (Wheeling), Patty Frame was a great experience and I was (South Charleston), Carla Guthrie happy to be asked to be a part of it,” (Charleston), Renae Haas (Cross she said. “I’ve been playing flute for Lanes), Kevin Harris (Shepherd- Masses since I was in grade school. stown), Brian Kaltenbaugh (Martins- Sadly, this was the first year since burg), Brandon Leroy (Bridgeport), grade school which I haven’t been Nancy McLaughlin (South Charles- able to play at Mass (due to the pan- ton), Mary Odin (South Charleston), demic), so to be able to come together Carrie Oliver-Shultz (Weirton), Gabby this way and share my talent in this Payne (Wheeling), Stephen Pishner video was uplifting to me. (Bridgeport), Jeanie Walter (South “The video illustrates that we are Charleston), Bishop Mark Brennan all one in God’s eyes,” she said and (Wheeling), Matthew Berher (Wheel- added. “From Bishop Brennan ing), Chad Carter (Wheeling), John playing the piano to the children sing- Dever (South Charleston), Ashley ing, we are all children of God, no Driscoll (Bridgeport), Christine matter what our earthly status is. We Hummer (Beckley), Phil Wyatt are all on this journey of faith to- (Stonewood), Tim Bishop (Wheeling), gether.” Julia Pinn (Morgantown), and the St. Shaffer’s thoughts may summarize Francis De Sales Parish Handbell the spirit of all those involved, when Choir (Morgantown), which includes she said, “Even though the ‘world’ Pinn, Donna Kinsey, Nicholas Blu- may have stopped this year….our mish, Natalie Buckley, Mary Hayward, ACROSSACROSS DOWDONWN faith never stops. God never stops Emily Raque, Maggie Raque, Steve 1“1“He isHe seate is seated at dt hate trighhe right t 11 Augu Augustinest iwneas w biassh biopsh hoper heere being there for us no matter what we Raque, Diane Raque, Ariana Romito, __ o___f th oef Fat theh eFatr.”her.” 2F2Frighright t 5 Samoan capital 3 Japanese-American are experiencing. Even though some Andreas Schmid, and Karen 5 Samoan capital 3 Japanese-American feel there isn’t much to celebrate Stratton. 9To9To do t hidos tishi fso rbiddis forbidden byen by 4 4DisenDigsenagegage the seventh commandment 5 Saint of Padua about this past year, this video re- The video can be viewed on the di- he seventh commandment 5 Saint of Padua minds me to not lose faith, especially ocesan website www.dwc.org, and so- 14 14NetmanNetman Nastase Nastase 6Sa6Sauceru cefor ftohre tEhuec Ehuacrihstarist 15 Bugs 7 Composer Stravinsky during the difficult times, and to focus cial media (Facebook, Twitter, and In- 15 Bugs 7 Composer Stravinsky on the positive things that have hap- stagram). 16 1M6adridMa dridmu semuumse um(wi t(wih th 8 8CleopatCleopatra’s rdaem’s diemse ise el”)“el”) 9Ta9Talks lks 17 17GoneGone by by 10G10Grotesrotesquequ likeeness likeness 18 18Car wiCatrh wi remoth removablvea panble -pan- 11 11RelaRexatlaixonation s els 121 Cap2 Capital iotaf lYemen of Yemen 19Re19Relaxeslaxes 131 Set3b Setackb accaku caseuse 20 20AuthAuor thoorf oEccf lesEcciasteslesiastes 21 2Statement1 Statement of b oefli beeflief with(wi “Tthe “”)T h(Ecce”) l( Ecc1:1)l 1:1) 22 22AltaAlr btaarlu bstalurastderade 2222 They T hfeedy Efelijd aEhlij (1ah K (1in gKsings 24 2P4lacePl oacef th oef t____he ____ (Mt (M 27t:33 27):33) 7:2–4)17:2–4) 27 2T7heT Gaherd Gaenrd oenf E odfen Ed menigh might t 23 2315th15 letteth rlette of trh oef Gthreee Gkr aeel-k al- haveh baveene b eenin t hiins t mohis dmoernd-dernay-d stateay state habpethabet 28M28Mosesoses was w flasoate floated ddo wdnown 24“24“For oFourr ___our, ___he w, hase wcruasc ci-ruci- this trivhise rivr ine ra i nb asa kbetasket ed…fi”ed…” 29 29A gifAt gifof tt hofe twihese wi mense men 25 2C5hicCkenhic Lkienttl eL,i ttfoler ,one for one 3030 Sho Srth naortil nail 26 26“…si“tt…sin’i ttinin a’ itnree a t___ree” ___” 31 3Keep1 Keep awa ayw frayom from 3030 Dose Dose amt. amt. 3232 Pari Pas popris pop 3333 Thor Tohughoro ughview view 34 3ame4 americanricangreetgrieetngs.comings.com 36 36MusiMucal sgricaolu grp oup produproctduct 37 3In7 frontIn front 35 3One5 One of t hofem? them? 3939 NT ep NTist eple istle 38 3T8hisT hiarcs hdiarchdioceseocese is f oisu fnodund 40 4Au0 strAualistanra liacacan iacaca ia in Soinu tSoh uAuthst Aurastliaralia 41 41CongConeal geal 40Pa40Paul wulas w shiasp swrhipecwrkecedk heder heere 424 Span2 Spanish riicesh diricesh dish 42T42Theyh filley tfillhe tchhure church ch 44 44ProoPf renoodif enngding 43 4Alf3 aAlflfaalfa 45 45Pew Peattacw attachmenthment 46Le46Legumegume 4747 Maxi Mmauximm (uambbr (a.)bbr.) 48 48SumsSums By Msgr. Dean Borgmeyer 49O49Obscenebscene 50G50Groupro oufp r oeligif reoligiusous 50T50The feasthe f eastday odaf ySt. o fTe St.resa Teresa 5151 Wai Wtsaits f Avilofa Avil is ian itshi ins montthis month h 525 Inc2id Incentident 5454 An ep Ainst eple istle 535 Reposes3 Reposes Advertise with 57 57ImagiImanatgiivnate ive 54 54TalkTa irrlkat irrionaationally lly 58 58LookLoo fork for 55 55HadHa billd sbill tos pa toy pay The Catholic 59Na59Nav. offiv.ce orfficer 56Fo56Fourthur otfh e oighf etigh, not, wnow 6060 Summe Summer drinr kdris nks 57 57906906, in ,t hine tRomanhe Roman Emp Empire ire Spirit 61 6Ita1 lianIta composelian composer r 595 Gent9 Gentlemanleman’s gr’sa dgreade 6262 Tied, T asied, a scoas ar escore . . Contact Colleen 6363 Liturgi Litcaurgil seasoncal season 64 6Fo4rd Fofloprd flop Rowan at 65 6Lan5 dLan of dSts. of BSts.ren Bdranen danand and crowan@ Brigid rigid dwc.org 6666 Forme Forr meJFKr aJFKrriv aarrivls als January 1, 2021 The Catholic Spirit 13 All Saints Parish Unveils St. Corona Icon Praying for Her Intercession in the Ongoing COVID-19 Pandemic

By Colleen Rowan had COVID-19 in the hospital and nursing homes. Grat- he image of a powerful intercessor in troubling itude, he said, goes out to all the medical personnel, espe- times has been added to the many likenesses of cially nurses and doctors who are on the front lines of the Tsaints that grace the interior walls of the Bridgeport pandemic. church named in their honor. The image is of St. Corona, “Without them and the science they live and breathe; who is invoked against plagues and viruses. where would we be?” he asked. “To all the families who During Mass on the third Sunday of Advent, Father have loved ones with the virus, who have lost loved ones Walter Jagela, pastor of All Saints Parish, blessed and ded- to the virus; we offer our prayers, support, and continued icated the icon. He and the congregation prayed for light, efforts on behalf of the church for healing, consolation, peace and healing to come to the world, parish, and all af- and peace.” fected by the coronavirus. The following, “A Gospel response to the Corona Pan- “The icon will be gracing our space until we as a demic,” was given to those who attended the Mass at people are safely moving about again in our world, free which the blessing of the image was held: from or at least under control from this virus,” Father “As our world is in the grip of a pandemic called Covid- Jagela said. “Then, and only then, will she be placed 19, many people are discovering and turning to various among the Holy Ones to adorn our walls here at All Saints ways of dealing with, understanding and, coming to where all can ‘walk the journey’ down the halls and be terms with isolation and distance. blessed.” “As a faith community of All Saints; we have chosen Father Jagela also developed prayer cards for through prayer, study and the arts to respond to this parishioners and placed them on their seats prior to the world Pandemic by creating an icon (a window into the Mass so they could pray the prayer together after the holy) of Saint Corona. While little is known about the life blessing of the icon. They were then encouraged to of Saint Corona, it is generally accepted that she was mar- take the prayer cards home to pray often during the tyred during the reign of Emperor Antoninus in the year pandemic. 165A.D. in Damascus. Pastoral staff along with parishioners were looking for The most common pious legend around St. Corona a way to respond in faith to the pandemic, Father involves another saint, St. Victor, a Roman soldier of Ital- Jagela said. As they discussed and prayerfully considered ian ancestry, who was in Damascus. St. Victor was tor- various ways to do this, he said they took one of tured for refusing to renounce his faith—including hav- the traditions from years of summer vacation Bible ing his eyes gouged out, before ultimately being be- school and developed the large hanging image of headed. St. Corona. “While Victor was being tortured, the sixteen-year- “We believe that the image, gracing our worship old St. Corona comforted and prayed for him. Because of space, assists us in prayerfully responding to the pan- this, she was arrested and interrogated by the Romans and demic by drawing us closer to someone who lived her found to be a Christian. According to some accounts, St. faith and assisted those who were in need during troubled Corona, was tied between two bent palm trees and torn times,” Father Jagela said. “We believe as Catholics that apart as the trunks were released. the saints, our sisters and brothers who lived like us and “Corona means Crown in Latin, which is also where now experience the glory of the Lord, can and do the coronavirus gets its name, from the spikes of protein interceed for us to God through Jesus, by the power of that form a crown around the virus. In Catholicism, the the Holy Spirit.” crown is a widely used emblem for martyrdom, particu- The large image, created by 16–year-old parishioner larly for female saints. Naomi Brown, hangs at left in the worship space. “Saint Corona is invoked against plagues and viruses. Father Jagela said she is an up-and-coming artist, who Her Feast Day is May 14. quietly worked from a picture to draw and paint the icon “Let us pray to St. Corona for all those sickened by the of St. Corona for her faith community. virus, our medical personnel, scientists advancing their “She spent countless hours drawing and painting St. knowledge and bringing us relief and, all those who have Corona and, as any good artist, she put a few of her own died from the virus. touches to the image,” he said. “We are most thankful to “We believe that everything is a teacher thus, maybe Naomi for her talents, gifts and above all her faith that en- what we glean from this pandemic is one about viral mis- courages our own faith during these challenging times.” information, which just like a plague, spreads unless we Courtesy Photo Since the pandemic began, Father Jagela has anointed isolate it! Pictured is the new icon of St. Corona at All several Catholics and visited non-Catholics who have “St. Corona, Pray for Us.” Saints Parish in Bridgeport.

Place Crossword your Puzzle Solution ad Puzzle on Page 12 here 14 The Catholic Spirit En Español January 1, 2021 Una carta del obispo Brennan

21 de diciembre de 2020

Queridos fieles de la diócesis de Wheeling-Charleston, a veces se nos presenta un hecho consumado: el mal ya se ha hecho y no podemos cambiarlo. Pero debido a que nuestra conexión con el mal hecho no es material Tenemos motivos para estar agradecidos con Dios porque ahora se están po- (es decir, no ayudó a causar el mal) ni está cerca de nosotros en el tiempo, podemos, niendo a disposición algunas vacunas para varios segmentos de nuestra población si de mala gana, aceptar un beneficio de ello. Recibir una vacuna COVID-19 que estadounidense y, eventualmente, para todos los que viven aquí para inocularlas se probó utilizando una línea celular moralmente comprometida está en esa cat- contra el virus COVID-19. Planeo vacunarme cuando sea mi turno e insto encare- egoría. cidamente a todos los católicos y otros residentes de West Virginia a que hagan lo mismo cuando tengan la oportunidad. Debido a que el aborto es un acto gravemente incorrecto, siempre debemos oponernos a él y nunca dar la apariencia de que lo aprobamos. Idealmente, evi- Debemos recordar que al protegernos a nosotros mismos mediante una va- taríamos incluso una conexión remota con el mal. Los obispos antes mencion- cuna eficaz, también protegemos a los demás. Vacunarse, entonces, es una forma ados y los jefes de muchas otras organizaciones escribieron al Comisionado de la de promover el bien común y poner en práctica el mandamiento: Ama al prójimo Administración de Alimentos y Medicamentos la primavera pasada para instar a como a ti mismo. que las vacunas se desarrollen y prueben sin siquiera una conexión remota con el aborto. ¿Por qué no agrega su voz a la de ellos? (Comisionado, FDA, 10903 New Han surgido algunas preguntas sobre la conexión entre las vacunas COVID- Hampshire Ave., Silver Spring, MD 20993; o llame al 888-463-6332). Afortunada- 19 y el aborto. El obispo Kevin Rhoades y el arzobispo Joseph Naumann, quienes mente, las compañías farmacéuticas pueden utilizar líneas celulares que no pro- presiden los Comités de Doctrina y Actividades Pro-vida de la Conferencia de Obi- vienen de fetos abortados. Algunas vacunas basadas en ellos están en desarrollo, spos Católicos de EE. UU., Respectivamente, emitieron un comunicado declar- pero aún no están listas para su producción o distribución. Mientras tanto, el uso ando que ninguna de las dos vacunas que ahora están disponibles, de Pfizer y de las vacunas Pfizer y Moderna es moralmente legítimo, dada la lejanía de su con- Moderna, usaba líneas celulares. de fetos abortados en el diseño, desarrollo o pro- exión con los bebés abortados y la urgente necesidad de protegernos a nosotros ducción de sus vacunas. Sin embargo, cada uno utilizó una línea celular de un feto mismos y a los demás de una enfermedad mortal. abortado en pruebas de confirmación para determinar la efectividad de la vacuna. Existe una conexión con el aborto, pero es remota. Citando documentos roma- Una tercera vacuna, que está siendo desarrollada por AstraZeneca, ha utilizado nos, los obispos concluyen que es moralmente permisible usar cualquiera de estas una línea celular de un bebé abortado en sus fases de diseño, desarrollo y produc- dos vacunas, especialmente dada la gravedad de la amenaza que representa el virus ción, por lo que se vincula más inmediatamente con un aborto. Si es posible, esa COVID-19 para nuestra gente y la falta de otros remedios. Puede leer la declaración vacuna debe evitarse. Sin embargo, como señalan los obispos, es posible que el completa de los obispos en https://www.usccb.org/moral-considerations-covid- individuo no pueda elegir qué vacuna recibe, mientras que el peligro para la per- vaccines. sona y para otras personas sigue siendo grave si la vacunación se retrasa o rechaza durante mucho tiempo. Debido a que los investigadores y productores de la va- Para ilustrar por qué en algunas circunstancias podemos beneficiarnos de una cuna AstraZeneca no abortaron al feto, sino que utilizaron la línea celular de ese acción moralmente incorrecta en la que no participamos directamente y que no niño para su trabajo, la suya es una conexión más inmediata con el mal del aborto, aprobamos, ofrezco una analogía histórica. Las Hermanas Benedictinas que me pero aún no una cooperación material en él. enseñaron en la escuela secundaria vivían en un convento que, a principios del siglo XIX, era el hogar de una familia esclavista en el noreste de Washington, DC. Mientras esperamos nuestras vacunas, debemos utilizar las medidas de protec- En el sótano había cadenas e instrumentos para castigar a los esclavos que traba- ción que pueden evitar que nos infectemos con el virus COVID-19 y contagiemos jaban en la granja de la familia. ¿Las Hermanas estaban dando su aprobación a a otros: lavarnos las manos con frecuencia, usar mascarillas, no darnos la mano, la esclavitud o al maltrato de esclavos porque vivían en ese hogar? Apenas. Apoy- mantener un distanciamiento físico adecuado y evitar grandes multitudes. aron los derechos civiles y enseñaron y nutrieron a los descendientes de antiguos esclavos en la escuela secundaria. Pero las Hermanas se beneficiaron de vivir en Sigamos orando por las víctimas de esta enfermedad y sus familias, por nuestro una casa construida y ocupada por antiguos dueños de esclavos. Existe una con- personal sanitario y por otras personas susceptibles al virus por su tipo de trabajo exión con la esclavitud pero muy remota. o su edad o debilidad de salud. Ore también por el fin de la pandemia y por un mayor aprecio por la vida de todos los seres humanos, desde los no nacidos hasta Jesús contó una parábola sobre el trigo y la mala hierba (Mateo 13: 24-30). Los los ancianos. Dios nos ha dado vida y aliento. Le pedimos que nos dé buena salud sirvientes del amo se acercaron a él para informarle que las malas hierbas crecían a nosotros y a todas las personas, por eso oramos: ¡Jesús, Divino Médico, ten pie- entre el trigo. “Un enemigo ha hecho esto”, dijo el maestro. ¿Deberían arrancar dad de tu pueblo! las malas hierbas? “No”, dijo el maestro, “si arrancas la mala hierba, podrías arrancar el trigo con ella. Déjalos crecer juntos hasta la cosecha ". Luego se quemar- Sinceramente en Cristo, ían las malas hierbas y se recogería el trigo en el granero.

Hay sabiduría en esta parábola. Debemos evitar participar en los actos malva- dos de los demás, pero no podemos aislarnos del resto del mundo. Inevitable- + Mark E. Brennan mente entraremos en contacto con personas y situaciones que están teñidas de Obispo de Wheeling-Charleston maldad. Nunca debemos dar ayuda material a alguien que está haciendo mal, pero

Para denunciar presuntos casos de abuso sexual de ninos: La Diocesis 304.230.1504. Tambien puede llamar a la linea directa de abuso sexual de la de Wheeling-Charleston alienta a informar ante las autoridades civiles ante todo Diocesis al 833.230.5656. Los formularios de queja estan disponibles en linea en si se ha cometido un delito. Tambien alentamos a utilizar www.report bishop- www.dwc.org, haga clic en "Diocesis" en la barra de menu, luego en "Oficinas", abuse.org para hacer un informe sobre cualquier obispo en los EE. UU. Si tiene mo- luego en "Ambiente seguro", luego "Descargar archivos y formularios". El formu- tivos para creer que un obispo ha cometido una conducta sexual inapropiada, co- lario se titula "Formulario de queja para denuncias de abuso sexual de menores". muniquese con las autoridades civiles de la jurisdiccion correspondiente y visite El formulario se puede devolver por correo de EE. UU. A: Office of Safe Environ- www.reportbishopabuse.org. ment, Diocesis de Wheel- ing-Charleston, PO Box 230, Wheeling WV 26003. Para informar a las autoridades civiles: comuniquese con la policia Para informar al Coordinador de Asistencia a Victimas de la local;We los Are numeros Now variaran A Full segun Service su ubicacion. Hardware Si cree Store! que alguien esta en peligro Diocesis: llame a la Dra. Patricia Bailey al 304.242.6988. inmediato, llame al 911. Para informar confiden- cialmente cualquier incidencia Ademas de los metodos enumerados anteriormente para denunciar el abuso de sospecha de abuso o negligencia infantil, incluido el abuso sexual, sexual, la Diocesis tambien se ha asociado con Navex Global para ofrecer la pla- comuniquese con la Oficina de Servicios de Proteccion Infantil de Ninos y Familias taforma EthicsPoint para informar otras inquietudes adi- cionales, como sospecha de West Virginia llamando a la linea directa de abuso infantil al 800.352. 6513. de mala conducta financiera, profesional y personal de un sacerdote, diacono, re- Puede informar anon- imamente a esta linea directa si lo prefiere. ligioso, o empleado laico de la Diocesis o cualquier parroquia o escuela catolica en Para informar a las autoridades diocesanas: La diocesis alienta a in- West Virginia. Se puede ac- ceder a la plataforma EthicsPoint a traves de formar a las autoridades civiles apropiadas, ante todo, si se ha cometido un delito. www.dwc.org, en “Rendi- cion de cuentas”, luego “Informar mala conducta” o lla- La diocesis tambien alienta a informar a las autoridades eclesiasticas apropiadas. mando al 844.723.8381. EthicsPoint es un sistema de informes de terceros que in- Para reportar casos sospechosos de abuso sexual de ninos por parte del personal de forma a las autoridades civiles cuando corresponda y a las autoridades diocesanas, la Diocesis de Wheeling-Charleston a la Diocesis, comuniquese con uno de los si- y la identidad de la persona que informa esta protegida. guientes designados al 1.888.434.6237 o 304.233.0880: Sr. Bryan Minor, ext. 263; Enlaces e informacion: Departamento de Salud y Recursos Humanos de WV: Sr. Tim Bishop, ext. 353; o Muy Reverendo Dennis Schuelkens, Jr., V.E., ext. 270. https://www.wvdhhr.org/report.asp. Policia Estatal de Virginia Occidental, Un- Tambien puede llamar a la Oficina de Ambiente Seguro de la Diocesis al idad de Crimenes contra Ninos: 304-293-6400. January 1, 2021 The Catholic Spirit 15

fluential to my development as a per- sense of peace, when I listen to it. was involved in parish life. That is re- Mills ... son and a Catholic,” Mills said. “Near What a gift! What a generous thing to flected in who he has become—a Cont’d from Page 9 the beginning of the Pandemic, Father do!” great blessing.” sense to me that it would therefore in- Paul asked if I would be willing to share “He is a blessing to the church,” For more information about form the music I compose which itself any music I had for a virtual Father Wharton said. “He was raised Mills’ music go to is born from my own personal experi- adoration service his parish was having. by parents (Gary and Tina), who https://www.tcpublish.com/ ences.” He noted on the songbook of I knew he was asking for music I already made sure each member of the family audio-1. the album that half of the music on it had written, but the day before the serv- are revised and expanded versions of a ice I felt a rush of inspiration to com- few of his first compositions, and the pose a new work. I wrote and recorded other half are pieces he composed in that entire piece in one day and the Place honor of his musical roots. whole process along with the style is “Reflections of Home is, in many very similar to my early composing ways, a literal title,” Mills noted. “It is which is why I included it on the your impossible for me to compose, play, or album.” hear this music without thinking of my Father Wharton said he was over- ad youth, my childhood house, or my whelmed when Mills presented him family’s piano. In fact, the music itself with an original song. “I reached out to feels like a compositional home. These him because I wanted my parishioners here works are the origins of everything I and anyone joining the virtual Adora- create today, and no matter how far tion to have a beautiful piece of music from these beginnings myself or my ar- to calm them,” Father Wharton said. “I tistic interests travel, this music will al- knew Michael well and was certain he ways be my home.” had something he had already written The song Silent Adoration was com- that would do. I had no idea he would posed in 2020 for Very Rev. Paul Whar- craft such a breathtaking piece just for ton, V.F., and his St. Francis de Sales Par- us and Adoration. ish in Beckley. “Father Paul is another “When I heard (Silent Adoration) priest I had in Princeton growing up for the first time I fell in love with it. It’s and someone I consider to be deeply in- so inspiring. It stills gives me a great

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