ISSN: 0029-7739 $ 1.00 per copy THE BSERVER OOfficial Newspaper of the Catholic of Rockford Volume 84 | No. 4 http://observer.rockforddiocese.org FRIDAY DECEMBER 20, 2019

And Joseph too went up from Galilee from the town of Nazareth to Judea, to the city of David that is called , because he was of the house and family of David, to be enrolled with Mary, his betrothed, who was with child. While they were there, the time came for her to have her child, and she gave birth to her firstborn son. — Luke 2:4-7 (CNS/Bridgeman Images)

This Issue Quick News Inside Bishop Malloy ...... 2 The Nativity is depicted Poor Clare Monastery Guadalupana, Headliners...... 3 (above) in a 16th-century Diocesan...... 4-6 painting by Italian artist First Stop for Rockford A Growing Around the Diocese ...... 7-9 Area Simbang Gabi Tradition Young Observer ...... 10-11 Lorenzo Lotto. Observances Worth the Wait ...... 12 Next Observer in 2020 Parishes in the Nation/World ...... 13 custom from the diocese celebrate Season ...... 14 There will be no issues of The Philippines continues in the Our Lady of The Junior Observer ...... 15 Observer on Dec. 27 or Jan.3. Rockford Diocese. Guadalupe. Our Catholic View ...... 16- 17 The next paper will be Jan. 10. For the Record ...... 18 page 5 page 6 Media/Arts...... 19 Look for new updates online. 2 | FRIDAY DECEMBER 20, 2019 | The Observer The Peace of Christmas is a Great Gift for Us

ach year, we come seems to be playing or the family is the context for this step The Observer (ISSN 0029- to the special day on television blaring. However, the in the fulfi llment of God’s plan 7739), is published weekly, the calendar that is scene of Christmas suggests a for the world and for each of us. except fi ve times a year by Christmas. There is healthy and refl ective silence as That child is the Son of God. the Diocese of Rockford, 555 Colman Center Dr., P.O. a special sense that seems to the family comes together with E He is the savior who has come Box 7044, Rockford, IL 61125 pervade life and the world on that the newborn and the shepherds at long last to save us from the Phone: 815/399-4300; Fax day. An extra grace of peace, of are fi lled with the presence in consequences of the sin of Adam 815/399-6225. BY BISHOP purpose to our lives, is given to the fl esh that the world has never and Eve and from our own sins. Periodical postage paid at DAVID J. us if we are willing and open to before known. The challenge of our place and Rockford, Ill., and additional MALLOY receiving it. In Mary there is a serenity as time is that we live in an era so mail offi ces. The image of Christ’s birth she looks on and the fl ow of taken with science, so satisfi ed POSTMASTER: send address is surrounded by a peace. The unexpected visitors to welcome with our material abundance that changes to The Observer, 555 f Christmas angels tell frightened shepherds the newborn king. She is the best is historically unheard of, that we Colman Center Dr., P.O. Box 7044, Rockford, IL 61125 Ihad not to hurry and see the newborn of all believers as well as the are tempted to forget about God happened savior. But they console them model mother because she “kept and about sin. If Christmas had For ADVERTISING information: by saying, “Glory to God in the all these things, refl ecting on Contact The Observer at the not happened and Jesus had not and Jesus highest and on earth peace to them in her heart” (Lk 2: 19). address above or call 815/399- come, we would be left in eternal had not those on whom his favor rests” At this moment she is the 4300; fax 815/399-6225, death. The birth of Jesus is a Email: kmccarthy@ (Lk 2: 14). fulfi llment of that magnifi cent come, we crucial step in the off er to each of rockforddiocese.org. The classical images of what image of Our Lady of Guadalupe, would us to share in eternal life and the Send NEWS information to The the shepherds and the Wise Men vested in maternity clothes, Observer at the address or fax be left in saw in the stable add to our sense waiting for the day that now has fulfi llment of what we have been made to be. number above; send email to eternal of calm and true peace of soul. come. Observer@rockforddiocese. death. No riches or fi nery adorned that St. Joseph is often depicted We pass many crib scenes at org; or fi ll out a form at stable. The mother quietly holds looking on. As a good husband this time of year, in homes and http://observer.rockforddiocese. her child. She reminds us of the and father he is probably already even in public places. We hear not org/contact-us. essence of a mother’s love that by praying and worrying about just “Jingle Bells” and “Deck the Subscription rate $28.00 per God’s plan children experience details to fulfi ll his task to care Halls,” but numerous sacred and year (48 issues); Canadian without having merited it. for mother and child. And along evocative Christmas hymns. and Pan American $29; other Let’s use this Christmas to foreign: surface mail $37, air Almost certainly they are the way, as a good man, his faith mail $97; single copies $1. staying in a stall with animals is deepened and his salvation think about Jesus and the Holy digital near, thereby further uniting all Family. Let’s recall for the good The Observer Online worked out by his place in the subscriptions are also available. of creation with the birth of Jesus. Holy Family. and peace of our souls what a Publisher: great gift Christmas was and is. We have so many distractions Of course the peace of the Most Reverend David J. Malloy in the moment-to-moment of Christmas celebration goes To all, a Blessed Christmas modern life. A radio always beyond domestic tranquility. The Season and New Year! Editor: Penny Wiegert News Editor: Amanda Hudson Features and Multimedia Editor: Sharon Boehlefeld Circulation/Proofreading: Peace as a Journey of Hope Susan Sabrowski, Keith Ludolph From the Message for 53rd World Day of men and women, young and old. ends up poisoning relationships Accounting: Jill Bonk Peace, Jan. 1, 2020, part 1 Many are the innocent victims between peoples and obstructing Advertising and Marketing: of painful humiliation and any form of dialogue. Peace Kevin McCarthy Peace, a journey of exclusion, sorrow and injustice, and international stability are Production and Web hope in the face of to say nothing of the trauma born incompatible with attempts to Administrator: Gary Haughton of systematic attacks on their build upon the fear of mutual (CNS photo/C. Peri via Reuters) Peri photo/C. (CNS obstacles and trial Contributing Writers: Father people and their loved ones. destruction or the threat of BY Kenneth Wasilewski, Father Peace is a great and precious The terrible trials of internal total annihilation. They can be FR ANCIS Kyle Manno, Keith Ludolph, value, the object of our hope and and international confl icts, often achieved only on the basis of Lynne Conner, Tony Carton, the aspiration of the entire human aggravated by ruthless acts a global ethic of solidarity and Pat Szpekowski, Margarita very war family. As a human attitude, our of violence, have an enduring cooperation in the service of a Mendoza, Louise Brass, Patrick is a form hope for peace is marked by an eff ect on the body and soul of future shaped by interdependence Winn E existential tension that makes of fratricide humanity. Every war is a form and shared responsibility in the Publication Dates: Weekly it possible for the present, with of fratricide that destroys the whole human family of today and except that in 2019 there will that destroys all its diffi culties, to be “lived human family’s innate vocation tomorrow” (Address on Nuclear be no issues on Jan. 4, March the human and accepted if it leads towards to brotherhood. Weapons, Nagasaki, Atomic 29, May 31, Aug. 30, Nov. 29 family’s a goal, if we can be sure of this War, as we know, often Bomb Hypocenter, Nov. 24, and Dec. 27. News Deadlines: Usually, 10 goal, and if this goal is great begins with the inability to 2019). innate enough to justify the eff ort of days before publication date. vocation accept the diversity of others, Every threatening situation the journey” (Benedict XVI, which then fosters attitudes of feeds mistrust and leads people Ad Deadlines: Usually, 10 days before publication date. to brother- Letter Spe Salvi [Nov. aggrandizement and domination to withdraw into their own safety hood. 30, 2007], 1) Hope is thus the born of selfi shness and pride, zone. Mistrust and fear weaken Offi cial information on the poli- virtue that inspires us and keeps hatred and the desire to relationships and increase the cies, activities, and positions of the Diocese of Rockford is us moving forward, even when caricature, exclude and even risk of violence, creating a obstacles seem insurmountable. released only in the pages of destroy the other. vicious circle that can never lead The Observer, or in state- Our human community bears, War is fueled by a perversion to a relationship of peace. Even ments from the Diocesan in its memory and its fl esh, the of relationships, by hegemonic nuclear deterrence can only Offi ce of Communications and scars of ever more devastating ambitions, by abuses of power, produce the illusion of security. Publications. wars and confl icts that aff ect by fear of others and by seeing We cannot claim to maintain The Observer uses recycled especially the poor and the diversity as an obstacle. And stability in the world through paper and is recyclable. vulnerable. Entire nations these, in turn, are aggravated by the fear of annihilation, in a Our Mission is the mission fi nd it diffi cult to break free of the experience of war. volatile situation, suspended of the Church itself — to the chains of exploitation and spread the Gospel through As I observed during my recent on the brink of a nuclear abyss contemporary means of corruption that fuel hatred and Apostolic Journey to Japan, our and enclosed behind walls of communications. violence. world is paradoxically marked by indiff erence. As a result, social Even today, dignity, physical “a perverse dichotomy that tries and economic decisions are Member of: integrity, freedom, including to defend and ensure stability and being made that lead to tragic religious freedom, communal peace through a false sense of situations where human beings solidarity and hope in the future security sustained by a mentality and creation itself are discarded are denied to great numbers of of fear and mistrust, one that Continued on page 18 Headliners The Observer | FRIDAY DECEMBER 20, 2019 | 3

Bishop Malloy Visits Pope in During his ad limina visit, Dec. 8-15, with in the Vati- can, Bishop David Malloy spoke with the pope (below). He also at- tended the pope’s Mass on the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe. Bishop Malloy and Bishop Donald J. Hying of Madison made a stop in St. Peter’s Square to see the Vatican Christmas and life-size nativity scenes (rightt). He was part of a group of bishops from Il- linois, Indiana — including Bishop Timothy Doherty of the Diocese of LaFayette-in-Indiana, formerly a priest of the Rockford Diocese — and Wisconsin who were reporting on the status of their dio- ceses to the pope and Vatican o cials.

(CNS photo) (Observer photo provided by Bishop David Malloy)) Creches Tell the Nativity Story with Materials, Symbols of Local Culture BY KATIE RUTTER specifi c cultural setting. The or French,” Father Roten told Catholic News Service Incarnation, the moment God Catholic News Service. becomes human, allows the na- The University of Dayton, DAYTON, Ohio (CNS)— tions to envision Christ as one which is a Catholic and Mari- Each culture, if not every home, of their own. anist institution, has amassed has its own rendition of the Na- “Enculturation is a step fur- what curators believe is the tivity. The Christ child may lay ther from the Incarnation,” said largest collection of Nativ- on a manger made from mate- Marianist Father Johann Roten, ity sets in North America. The rials as diverse as wax, blown a scholar at the University of archives contain about 3,600 glass, yarn, papier-mache and Dayton and expert on cultural creches from around 100 dif- terra cotta. Mary might don the interpretations of the Nativity. ferent countries. dress of a fi rst-century peasant “The Incarnation is the son “They’re really important or Renaissance royalty. of God becoming human and examples of popular devotion,” The ubiquitous manger scene enculturation will then be, He said Sarah Cahalan, director of makes the perfect illustration becomes not only human, but the Marian Library at the uni- of enculturation, that is, adapt- He becomes Afghani or He versity, which houses the na- ing the principles of faith to a is Persian or He is German tivities.

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(Photo provided) Savant's Social Responsibility portfolio options allow Christmas Field Trip in Rockford investors to align their strategies with their faith? Students served by St. Elizabeth Catholic Community Center in Rock- ford line up outside the city’s Coronado Theater to see a performance of The by the Rockford Dance Company and the Rockford Symphony Orechestra. Savant Capital Management is a nationally recognized fee-only wealth management firm that offers integrative investment management and Bishop Malloy’s Winnebago County Jail, 9 a.m. financial planning solutions to individuals, families, foundations, trust funds, Public Schedule for men; 10 a.m. for women retirement plans and non-profit organizations. ROCKFORD — Dec. 29, 7:30 ROCKFORD — Dec. 22, 7:30 a.m., Sunday Mass, Cathedral of a.m., Sunday Mass, Cathedral of St. Peter Start building your ideal future! St. Peter ROCKFORD — Jan. 5, 7:30 Call us today for a complimentary portfolio review. ROCKFORD — Dec. 25, 12 a.m., Sunday Mass, Cathedral of a.m., Christmas , St. Peter 815 227 0300 savantcapital.com Cathedral of St. Peter ROCKFORD — Jan. 12, 7:30 ROCKFORD — Dec. 25, Savant Capital Management is a Registered Investment Advisor. Savant's marketing material should not be construed by any existing a.m., Sunday Mass, Cathedral of or prospective client as a guarantee that they will experience a certain level of results if they engage in the advisor's services. 9 a.m., Christmas Mass, St. Peter Please contact Savant to find out if they are qualified to provide investment advisory services in the state where you reside. 4 | FRIDAY DECEMBER 20, 2019 | The Observer Diocesan Bishop O’Neill Scholars Honored Dec. 12 Don’t Miss ROCKFORD—Students the distribution party each year Elementary School in Freeport;  Jocelyne and Murphy Hunt Bishop from all seven of the almost until his death in 2013.  Sophie Holland of St. from St. Charles Borromeo Diocese of Rockford were cho- This year’s awards were held Catherine of Siena School in School in Hampshire; and Malloy’s sen to receive scholarships to on Dec. 12 and were given to: West Dundee;  Emireth, Joaquin and Isa- be used for Catholic school tu-  Ryan Partington and his  Mary Ross of St. Marga- bela Alarcon of St. Peter School TV Messages ition. Bishop Arthur J. O’Neill sister, Anna (not pictured) of ret Mary School in Algonquin; in South Beloit. established the scholarships af- St. Anne School in Dixon; Delaney Hefke of Annuncia- Students, their parents and Weekday Reflection ter he retired, and he attended  Kateri Bowman of Aquin tion BVM School in Aurora; principals also shared treats and participated in a contest (about 6:58 a.m.) about Bishop Edward Hoban on WREX-TV, Channel 13, created by Michael Kagan, Rockford diocesan superintendent of schools. Top o’ the Students also received Dairy Queen gift cards and chocolate Morning bar snowmen made for the oc- casion by education offi ce busi- with ness manager, Kris Mimier. The snowmen wore hats made Bishop of stretchable gloves. Other education offi ce staff Malloy attended the event. Listen to archives anytime at http://observer.rockforddiocese.org. Click on Bishop Malloy on the top left side of the page.

Brought to you by Fitzgerald Funeral Homes Illinois Bank & Trust (Observer photos/Amanda Hudson) Diocesan Office of The 2019 Bishop O’Neill Scholarship winners are (back from left) Ryan Partington of St. Anne School in Dix- Communication and on; Kateri Bowman of Aquin Elementary School in Freeport; Sophie Holland of St. Catherine of Siena School Publications The Observer in West Dundee; Mary Ross of St. Margaret Mary School in Algonquin; Delaney Hefke of BVM Snowmen topped with gloves Office of Charitable Giving, School in Aurora; (front) Jocelyne and Murphy Hunt from St. Charles Borromeo School in Hampshire; and hold treats for the scholarship Diocese of Rockford Emireth, Joaquin and Isabela Alarcon of St. Peter School in South Beloit. winners. Waterleaf Women’s Center Dedicated in Aurora

BY AMANDA HUDSON ministry. News Editor After Father Milota’s bless- AURORA—A beautiful and ing of the building, Waterleaf founder and board member bright Waterleaf Women’s Cen- Kelly Rozanski thanked the ter was dedicated and blessed Waterleaf staff and volunteers Dec. 8 at its new location at and its many supporters. 3055 E. New York St. (at the Her husband, Matt, explained southwest corner at Oakhurst) on a tour before the dedication on Aurora’s east side. began that his wife’s vision was The center is a bit over the to provide a welcoming, spa- Kane County line, putting it like atmosphere to help calm the in the Joliet Diocese, and right anxious women who come to across a service road from the them with problematic pregnan- Aurora Planned Parenthood The Aurora Planned Parenthood site is visible from inside the chapel cies. The key elements used in at the Waterleaf Women’s Center. Art in the center celebrates mother- building. Weekly in the design by Charles Vincent hood, including images of the women and children. Father Thomas Milota, board George Architects included The member, Waterleaf spiritual di- hope, freedom, peace and love. fear into confi dence by address- added. rector, and pastor of St. Petro- Phoenix Builders constructed ing their physical, spiritual and Waterleaf is open six days Observer nille in Glen Ellyn, led the the facility, and Dawn Totty emotional needs, and equip- a week, including evenings prayer service that included served as interior designer. ping them to make healthy life- and weekends. It is staff ed by music ministers from his par- “Kelly spends a lot of time affi rming decisions,” said the “seasoned professionals” and Subscribe ish and a Knights of Columbus in adoration,” Matt says in ex- dedication program. “talented volunteers” said the Honor Guard. planation of the real source of “Guided by the Holy Spirit program. Services are provided The dedication ceremony his wife’s ideas for Waterleaf since 2009, we have served at no cost. Today! was held outside the front door and of the graces received on more than 4,000 clients and “With God,” said the pro- of the center and the crowd, a regular basis by the ministry. celebrated 1,208 births,” as of gram, “all things are truly pos- Select print, digital which at fi rst numbered 50- He explains that the build- Nov. 21 this year, the program sible!” or both for just 60 people, continued to grow ing’s design deliberately put to about 100-120 well-wishers the center’s chapel at the south $28 per year. and supporters of this prolife end, closest to Planned Parent- Call 815-399-4300 hood. Mass will be celebrated there several days a week, ext. 383 or go online at and the Blessed Sacrament re- http://observer. served in its tabernacle. rockforddiocese.org Matt also notes that sidewalk counselors have lined and will continue to line the service road between the abortion fa- cility and Waterleaf, and the Waterleaf landscaping will be

(Observer photos/Amanda Hudson) designed with that in mind. Father Robert Jones (right), pas- “Waterleaf’s mission is to tor of St. Katharine Drexel, Sugar be the chosen destination for Part of the group gathered for the Waterleaf Women’s Center dedica- Grove, was among Rockford Dio- women facing an unplanned tion is visible through the windows of a reception area that includes a cese Catholics at the opening. pregnancy, transforming their play area for children. Diocesan The Observer | FRIDAY DECEMBER 20, 2019 | 5

Musicians lead the congregation in traditional Filipino hymns and liturgical music on Dec. 15 at the first of nine Simbang Gabi celebrations in the Dexter Tope Rockford area this Advent. and his (Observer photos/Lynne Conner) children Ana and Dexter prepare Poor Clare Monastery First to carry a decorative star called a Stop for Rockford Area ‘parol’ to the during the opening Simbang Gabi Observances procession of a Simbang BY: LYNNE CONNER the tradition. ers. Gabi Mass. Observer Correspondent “Simbang Gabi is a time of “The Gospel must be seen thanksgiv- in our actions. Then our good Remaining Simbang Gabi Advent ROCKFORD—Filipino- ing and deeds will be remembered,” he American Catholics in the preparation said. “This is the time to count celebrations in the Rockford Diocese Rockford area gathered at the leading up our blessings instead of focus- Fox Valley, 7 p.m. www.facebook.com/ Corpus Christi Monastery of to Christ- ing on our worries.” the Poor Clares at 6:30 p.m.Dec. mas,” he At each of the Simbang Gabi Dec. 20: St. John Neumann, Rockford area, 6:30 p.m. 15 for the first Simbang Gabi said. “The Masses, an intricate star deco- 2900 E. Main St., St. Charles novena celebration of the 2019 Dec. 20: St. Rita, 6254 Valley nine days ration called a ‘parol’ is part Dec. 20: Christ the Teacher, 512 Advent season. Knoll Dr., Rockford are actu- of the opening procession. La- Normal Road, DeKalb The annual celebration of ally a sym- Father Adrian dines said the star is a “symbol Dec. 21: Holy Family, 4401 nine evening Masses leading bol of sharing, Ladines of hope and anticipation for the Dec. 21: St. Patrick Church, Highcrest Road, Rockford 6N491 Crane Road, St. Charles up to Christmas is an important of love and birth of Jesus.” Dec. 22: St. Rita, 6254 Valley devotional practice in the Fili- showing acts of kindness.” Gifts of money, food and Dec. 22: St. Mary Church, 312 Knoll Dr., Rockford pino culture followed in Rock- In his homily, Father Ladines wrapped presents are also Lincoln Ave ., Woodstock Dec. 23: St. Bridget, 600 Clifford ford area and Fox Valley par- encouraged those gathered to brought to the altar during the Dec. 23: St. Laurence, 225 Jew- Ave., Loves Park ishes in the Rockford Diocese. live the Gospel values of mercy offertory procession to symbol- ett St., Elgin Father Adrian Ladines pre- and compassion while sharing ize the sacrifices of the congre- Info: hosting parishes or https:// sided at the Mass and explained the message of Christ with oth- gation. Info: hosting parishes or https:// www.facebook.com/grfacc Merry Christmas and a Blessed New Year Contact the Catholic Foundation and Offi ce of Charitable Giving for your planned giving needs, including:  Gift Annuities  Charitable Bequests  Donor Advised Funds Contact: The Catholic Foundation Offi ce of Charitable Giving Dan O’Malley Denise Dobrowolski Executive Director Director [email protected] [email protected]

Phone: (815) 399-4300 www.foundationrockford.org 6 | FRIDAY DECEMBER 20, 2019 | The Observer Diocesan Guadalupana, a Growing Tradition Diocesan Parishes “Las Mañanitas” to the patroness of the Americas. Celebrate Our Lady of The songs were sung with mariachi Guadalupe with Masses, bands, Mexican bands or parochial choruses in churches specially decorat- mañanitas and more ed with hundres of flowers, especially roses. BY MARGARITA MENDOZA Bearing bouquets, children and adults El Observador Editor dressed like St. Juan Diego or wearing (CNS photo/Paul Haring) indigenous-type clothes, gathered for Pope Francis venerates an image of Our Lady of Guadalupe during a Mass marking her DIOCESE—Every year thousands of praise dances, reenactments of the ap- feast day in St. Peter’s Basilica at the Vatican Dec. 12, 2019. Bishop David Malloy of Rock- people attend parishes to participate in parition of the Virgin to St. Juan Diego, ford was among U.S. bishops from Illinois, Indiana, and Wisconsin who attended the the Solemnity of Our Lady of Guada- and fellowship. Mass while making their ad limina visits to the Vatican. lupe. This year was no exception. The festivities in honor of Our Lady asking to remain anonymous. “I started in the readings and enacts one of the Starting on the night of Dec. 11 in of Guadalupe continued through her so- (because of an incident) 10 years ago in phrases Our Lady told to St. Juan Diego, parishes of the Rockford Diocese, par- lemnity on Dec. 12. Los Angeles. I (have) been doing this “Am I not here, who am your mother.” ticularly in those with Spanish language For many people this is a long-stand- since my only child was kidnapped At the end, refreshments that usually Masses, thousands gathered to sing ing tradition. One of those is Martha Martínez, a parishioner of St. Joseph in and killed,” she said. “Since then, I do include , chocolate bread and Elgin. She has been part of Guadalupa- this every year. This activity gives me , a Mexican hot chocolate na celebration since she was a little girl. strength to continue.” drink, are served for those who attend- “It is something very traditional for The celebration brings so many people ed the Mass or prayers. Mexicans. (For me) since I was little. to parishes, in In this same church our parents started some of them the celebration more than 50 years ago. more - Now, I can say that no one does it as Fa- ioners than ther Jesús,” she said. on a Sunday Father Jesús Dominguez is the pastor Mass. “In St. of St. Joseph in Elgin. Mary, Elgin On the other hand, for some, life cir- the Church cumstances have made them more re- was full, it cent devotees of the Virgin of Guada- looked like a lupe and her celebration. Sunday,” said It is “very beautiful... and it is very Father Jorge important because she is the mother of Loaiza, pa- all Mexicans,” said a parishioner who rochial vicar attended Las Mañanitas at 11 p.m. on here. This year sombreros decorate the corners Dec. 11 at St. Joseph. The Mexi- of the image of Our Lady of Guadalupe at “I always come at this time. I have can celebra- A woman (right) and baby girl dress in traditional Mexican attire for St. Joseph in Elgin. been coming for three years,” she said, tion evokes the Guadalupana at St. Joseph Parish in Elgin.

Father Jesús Dominguez shares tamales with a young parishioner dur- ing fellowship at St. Joseph Parish in Elgin, Dec. 11.

SPECIALIZING IN FAITH-BASED JOURNEYS Ask about pilgrimages with Father David Peck Experience the trip We recently added 10 more seats of a Lifetime! for the exclusive Don’t miss this 2020 Passion Play! exciting trip. Call today! Oberammergau Passion Play including Munich, Budapest, Danube River dinner cruise, Vienna, Prague. July 22-August 1, 2020 CINDY NICOLOSI TRAVEL .....serving all your travel needs Cindy Nicolosi, CTC 1330 Dresden Rd., Davis, IL 61019 [email protected] (Observer photo/Margarita Mendoza) Cell: (815) 298-7460 Home/Offi ce: (815) 248-3106 A parishioner takes a photo of the musicians for an 11 p.m. prayer service and mañanitas for Our Lady of Guadalupe at St. Monica Parish in Carpentersville on Dec. 11. Around the Diocese The Observer | FRIDAY DECEMBER 20, 2019 | 7 Refugee Children Receive Gifts from Santa BY LYNNE CONNER four countries — the Republic Observer Correspondent of Congo, Burma, Burundi and Syria. ROCKFORD—Large, Gifts for the children were multi-colored balloons and donated by St. Bernadette pa- children’s laughter filled the air rishioners while gifts for the at the St. Bernadette Parish so- adult refugees were donated cial hall on Dec. 14 during the as part of Holy Family Parish’s fourth annual Catholic Chari- Giving Tree program. ties Refugee Resettlement Pro- “For many of our refugees, gram’s Christmas party. this is the first time they have Children of refugees in the ever seen a out- program received stocking side of the movies,” Biljeskovic stuffer gifts, lunch, candy as said. “This event is also very well as Christmas gifts from welcoming and integrating for Santa. Adult refugees will be our refugees to be part of the receiving their gifts closer to community and meet the vol- Christmas. unteers from St. Bernadette’s Janet Biljeskovic, director of who have helped to make this (Observer photos/Lynne Conner) Refugee children play with punch ball balloons while the resettlement program, said event possible. The Christmas Refugee children receive gifts from Santa Claus at awaiting Santa at the annual Catholic Charities Refu- that refugees and their families party also serves as an orienta- the annual Catholic Charities Refugee Resettlement gee Resettlement Program’s Christmas party. attending the event hail from tion to the American culture.” Program’s Christmas party.

(Observer photos/Amanda Hudson)

Holy Family Knights Deliver Coats The Knights of Columbus Holy Family Council 13123 held a “Coats for Kids” drive and collected a total of 280 coats including 178 received from parishioners and 102 purchased with cash donations. Hats, gloves, sweaters and snow suits also were collected. Recipients included children and adults served by the Refu- gee Resettlement Services at Catholic Charities (pictured), St. Elizabeth Catholic Community Center, St. Vincent de Paul Society, and Remedies Renewing Lives domestic shelter in Rockford. Deputy Grand Knight Mark Funfsinn, Othello Garganera, Rockford Diocesan Programming Coordinator — Illinois State KC Coun- cil, and new KC member Dennis Dizon delivered and distributed some of the coats at the Refugee Office on Dec. 6. Additionally, the Knights brought men’s coats and shoes to Carpenter’s Place in Rockford, which serves homeless men and families.

Learn priceless lessons from the Bible through the joy of animals from the enchanting story telling of author Deacon Dennis Holian. “Animals of the Bible” Hard Cover Book $14.99 Orders available online at www.DD-Shepherd.org Kids will love learning God’s message with their own “Animals of the Bible” Stuff ed Donkey, Lamb & Lion! Add to the fun with the Board Game now available! “I was delighted with the ‘Animals of the Bible’ book. I love the scriptural stories and the lively illustrations. Can’t wait to share it with my children& grandchildren!” - Angie H.

Sharing God’s Message Through the joy of animals, I want to share God’s message of love. through the Joy of Animals! You can contact me at [email protected]! 8 | FRIDAY DECEMBER 20, 2019 | The Observer Around the Diocese

Catholic Women’s Advent events League Celebrates Dec 21 Veterans with Gifts GENEVA Bambinelli blessing: 10 a.m.; On Dec. 10, the Rockford Catholic St. Peter, 1891 Kaneville Road. Women’s League Sewing Guild presented 23 crocheted-edge Blessing of Baby Jesus figures fleece blankets, 15 pillows and 18 from home nativity sets. Info: scarves to Pat Ambrose, director 630-232-0124 of the Veterans Drop-In Center, and Nancy Clark, director of the (Photos provided) Rockford She-Vets Chapter, both Going on Now in Rockford. Items were handmade using patriotic pat- terned materials to honor veterans and to thank them for Dec. 21-22 their service. Members of CWL attended the presentation NORTH AURORA at the Veterans Drop-In Center on South Fourth Street. Tribute card sale: after all Masses; Blessed Sacrament, 801 Oak St. The Altar and Rosary Society is selling Lights of Love handmade tribute cards. Cost: What’s Up $5 each. Info: Jenny Bourge, 630- 897-1029, [email protected] Tue Dec 24 Tue Jan 7 Save the Date — Diocesan GENEVA Administration Center closed Nonnatus Ministry: 7 p.m.; Jan 15 St. Peter Muldoon Room, 1891 BATAVIA Wed Dec 25 Kaneville Road. Support group Morning and Evening of Prayer for couples unable to conceive. and Reflection: 9-10:30 a.m. Christmas Day — Diocesan Registration appreciated; drop- and 6:30-8:30 p.m.; Nazareth Administration Center closed ins welcome. Free. Info: Tori Spirituality Center, 717 N. Nicklaus, 630-232-0124 ext 130, Batavia Ave. Sponsor: Servants Sat Dec 28 leave name and phone number of the Holy Heart of Mary. with questions or to register. Topic: Hospice and Palliative ROCKFORD Care. Presenter: Nancy Flowers, Reindeer Games: 10 a.m. (also Wed Jan 8 Rainbow Hospice. Registration 10 a.m. Dec. 30); Boylan Central requested. Free, offerings Catholic High School, 4000 Deadline for Jan. 17 What’s Up accepted. Info: Linda Isleib, 630- St. Francis Dr. Girls basketball (for events Jan. 20-26) 879-1296; www.sscm-usa.org tourney featuring Boylan, (Observer photo/Amanda Hudson) Jan 18 Jody Deery takes a moment to relax during her nativity open house. Freeport Aquin CCHS and Fri Jan 10 DIXON Woodstock Marian CCHS among ROCKFORD Beer, wine tasting: time TBA; other teams. Cost: per session — Dixon Knights of Columbus Entrance exam: 8 a.m.; Boylan Christmas Tradition Ending $5 adults, $2 students and senior Council 690 Hall, 506 W. Third Central Catholic High School, citizens; tourney pass — $15 St. Sponsor Catholic Education 4000 St. Francis Dr. Info: https:// ROCKFORD—The weekend a , a bath tub, the adult. Info: https://www.boylan. Scholarship Committee. Info: boylan.org/admissions/ of Dec. 14 and 15, Jody Deery lawn, entryway and halls. They org/whats-happening/calendar www.kofc690.com, 815-288-1821 placement-testing hosted her final year of nativity range from about 1 inch high to Tue Dec 31 displays in her Rockford home 3 to 4 feet high, from expen- (leave a message), Facebook at Sat Jan 11 to benefit Catholic Women’s sive creations to hand-drawn Knights of Columbus 690 New Year’s Eve — Diocesan League. and framed. They are made of Jan 23 Administration Center closed AURORA She and her late husband, porcelain, glass, wood, metal, DIXON Qualifying exam: 9 a.m.; Rosary Hugh, began collecting nativi- clay, paper mache, cloth, mate- Assembly 1702 meeting: 7:30 Wed Jan 1 High School, 901 Edgelawn Dr. ties decades ago. Others came to rials native to various countries, p.m.; Dixon Knights of Columbus For girls. Info: rosaryhs.com/exam her as gifts. The couple traveled plastic and even cola bottles. Council 690 Hall, 506 W. Third New Year’s Day — Diocesan CRYSTAL LAKE each year after their race track A table full of treats and was- St. Info: Knights of Columbus Administration Center closed Councils in the Assembly Polish dinner: 5:30 p.m.; St. business closed for the season, sail was provided by the Catho- Thu Jan 2 Thomas the Apostle community which put their annual travels lic Women’s League. Donations room, 451 W. Terra Cotta Ave. shortly before Christmas. will help CWL serve the Poor Elsewhere Deadline for Jan. 10 What’s Up Sponsor: Knights of Columbus More than 300 nativities Clare Nuns and a variety of oth- (for events Jan. 13-19) Council 3880. Proceeds help graced mantles, tables, shelves, er people in the Rockford area. Jan 11 CHICAGO March for Life: 1 p.m. rally; Daley Plaza, 50 W Washington St. March follows rally. Mass at 4 p.m. Congress Plaza Hotel Great Hall. Info: https://www. marchforlifechicagoconvention. org/ Submit News

Next deadlines: Jan. 2 for Jan. 10 issue; Jan. 8 for Jan. 17 issue. Online: Use the form at http:// observer.rockforddiocese.org/ contact-us. Click on Submit Events and News. By Mail: Send to The Observer, P.O. Box 7044, Rockford, IL 61125. Keep Up

Find more events: Between issues, find events and news at http://www.rockforddiocese.org/ calendar.php or on The Observer Catholic Newspaper Facebook page and between issues on our blog at http://observer. Merry Christmas from The Observer rockforddiocese.org/whats- (CNS photo) up+plus Around the Diocese The Observer | FRIDAY DECEMBER 20, 2019 | 9

(Photos provided) McHenry Pilgrims Visit Holy Land Thirty-four pilgrims accompanied Father Godwin Asuquo, pastor of St. Patrick in McHen- Bethlehem, Jerusalem, the Dead Sea, Masada, the Sea of Galilee, Tiberius, Cana and ry, to the Holy Land this fall. Father Asuquo gathered everyone for a group photo after Nazareth, among other places. Father Asuquo (right) also demonstrated how Zacchaeus the first Mass celebrated in the Holy Land at Shepherd’s Field in Bethlehem. They visited climbed a sycamore tree in Jericho. Good for You New director: Boylan Central 1980s, and owned the Catholic Catholic High School in Rockford Store, Vineyard Books and Gifts hired Danny Beeman as its new in the early 2000s, Hope for Hai- tennis center director effective Jan. tians, serves the poor in Haiti 1, 2020. Beeman previously served through housing, clean water, san- as the tennis director at the Forest itation, and development of sus- City Tennis Center. The Boylan tainable food and enterprise. Tennis Center is the only other in- Mendoza to head NINA: Mar- door center in the region. Beeman garita Mendoza, editor of El Ob- plans to expand and grow the role servador and Spanish translator of the center at Boylan and in the for the Rockford Diocese, has community and make upgrades to been elected the facility. president of Hope hires director: Hope for the North- Haitians hired Chris Weickert as ern Illinois e x e c u t i v e Newspaper director of Associa- the Rock- tion. She is ford based the fourth non-profit. N I N A (Photo provided) W e i c k e r t p r e s i d e n t (Photos provided) previously to represent M. Mendoza St. Thomas More Families Fill ‘Boxes of Love’ for Children worked in the Rock- d i o c e s a n ford Diocese and the first Latina St. Thomas More School families and the Elgin parish’s religious education families took part in the Box of youth min- to head the association. She takes Joy program again this year. The students brought their boxes to church during Adoration, placing them istry dur- office in January and will serve as on the altar (above) as they entered the church. Father Ryan Browning, parocial administrator, blessed the ing the late C. Weickert president in 2020. boxes and everyone prayed for the children who will be receiving them.

Sterling Knights Help Local Charities

(Photos provided) The Sterling Knights of Columbus Council 662 donates a check for $400 to the Bi-County CoOp (left) and for $3,987.84 to Self Help Enterprises (right), both in Sterling.

 The Worldwide Marriage GIVE YOUR SPOUSE Encounter is a gift lled with romance and excitement!  Put a little Christmas A SPECIAL GIFT into your marriage!  Learn how to have your THIS CHRISTMAS! marriage last forever! (Photo provided) Rosary Student Wins Pro-Life Contest Sign up today to attend one of the upcoming Lauren Audrey Paschoud of Geneva, a freshman at Rosary High School in Aurora, poses with Father James Parker, pastor of Holy Cross Par- Worldwide Marriage Encounter Weekends: ish in Batavia. They both wear t-shirts featuring the winning design January 24-26 February 14-16 March 13-15 Paschoud created for the annual Walk for Life t-shirt sponsored by Brookfi ed, WI Geneva, IL Madison, WI the Women’s Centers of Greater Chicagoland. “We love the super cute baby that is the “I” in LIFE in Lauren’s design,” wrote Dolores Pribble, outreach coordinator. The walk was held in September at Caldwell Early registration is highly recommended. Woods Forest Preserve in Cook County. For more information visit our website at: alifetimeofl ove.org or call 888-574-5653. Pray for Vocations Para un fi n de semana en español por favor llamen a Candelario y Emilia al 815-375-4250 10 | FRIDAY DECEMBER 20, 2019 | The Observer

Boylan CCHS gift crew Boylan students share the spirit For more than 50 years, Boylan Central What began as Catholic High School has partnered with the “Christmas baskets” St. Elizabeth Catholic Community Center, has turned into the both in Rockford, to give back to those in donation of dozens of holiday boxes need over the holidays. each year. In the weeks leading up to Christmas, students, faculty, and staff collect food, household supplies, monetary donations, and gifts for 45 families. Students then sort, wrap, package, and take the items to St. Elizabeth for delivery to the families. Young The donations provide local families with food for a full holiday meal, other ObserverO necessities and wrapped gifts for family (Photos provided) members to open on Christmas day. Y Fine Art‘19 St. Edward CCHS photographer makes show

KANE COUNTY—A student contest. This year, two of Hayley from St. Edward Central Plummer’s photos made As the number of Catholic High School in Elgin it through the hundreds of is again featured in the annual participating high schools and entries each week to land in Kane County Regional Office weekly entries grow, it gets the the top 10 photos. She is of Education student photo tougher to stand out. a student of Leann Worster at St. Ed’s. Her “Greek Road” photo (right) made it to number seven in the sixth week of the contest. A black and white entry, “Winter Pine” (below) squeaked into 10th place in the 10th and final week of the contest. Plummer’s photos, along with the others that placed in this year’s contest, will be part of the Kane County Student Photography Exhibition from 6 to 8 p.m. Dec. 13 at the Batavia

(Photos provided) Fine Arts Center, 1201 Main St. in “Winter Pine” by Hayley Plummer Batavia. “Greek Road” by Hayley Plummer The Observer | FRIDAY DECEMBER 20, 2019 | 11 Top scholars, athletes honored

Marian Central NHS inductees Marian Central Catholic High School inducted 30 students into the Bishop Lane Chapter of the Nation-

(Photos provided) al Honor Society Oct. 26. Membership in the Bishop Lane Chapter is conferred in recognition of excep- tional qualifications in the areas of scholarship, service, leadership and character. New members are (front Boylan athletes sign row) Timothy Miller, Jenna Knapp, Nora Kelly, Jane Walsdorf, Laura Colcernian, Morgan Piwonka, Kathleen Two students from Boylan Central Catholic High School in Rockford Stumpf, Joseph Walsdorf, (second row) Lauren McNulty, Naomi DiGangi, Abigail Miller, Bethany Noonan, were honored Nov. 13 at a signing ceremony in the school cafeteria. Kelsey Miner, Connor Donaldson, Amelia Smercynski, Nicole Santopadre, (third row) Alexander Eschen- Honorees were Peyton Kennedy (left), who will play basketball at St. bacher, Elizabeth Kita, Katherine Strode, Alyssa Graf, Tess Meisner, Gretchen Gilmore, Caroline Binotti, Brian Louis University, and TJ Baker, a golfer who will attend Southern Il- Hopp, (fourth row) Jeremy Kleberg, Peter Walsdorf, Ryan Jones, Andrew Pascente, Ben Minneci, Nathaniel linois University-Edwardsville. Bucci, and (not pictured) Amelia Fitzgerald.

Marian Central state scholars Boylan NHS inductees Twenty-eight seniors at Marian Central Catholic High School in Woodstock have been recognized as Illinois State Scholars. They represent approximately the top 10% of high Boylan Central Catholic High School in Rockford inducted 10 seniors into the National school seniors across the state. Honored students are (not in order shown) Jamie Atadero, Honor Society on Nov. 12. They join 40 students who were inducted last spring bringing Jacob Benigni, Connor Blaz, Madeline Conti Mica, Isabeele Clarkson, Connor Donaldson, Boylan’s NHS members for 2019 to 50 students. The seniors inducted in the fall ceremony Alexander Eschenbacher, Stephan Foster, Linzie Harding, Madison Hogel, Ryan Jones, are (not in order shown) Jonah Allen, Victoria Letizia Bruschi, Matthew Burkins, David Samuel Lavin, Susan Lim, Benjamin Minneci, Nicolette Miroballi, Benjamin Moscinski, An- Consuelos, Eva Corcoran, Mia Dally, Liam Keefe, Joshua Lewandowski, Brianna Novak and drew Pascente, Hanna Paulson, Brogan Pivnicka, Benjamin Reuter, Hailea Sacco-Nicketta, Teresa Winkelman. Sarah Scheper, Benjamin Schneider, Zofia Stawiarska, Siobhan Stoll, Daniel Stumpf, Eva Tersteeg, and Matthew Wember.

Aquin state scholars Rosary High School “Meads” are (from left) Ann Molenhouse, Katie Lifka, Maia Italia, Li- The Illinois Student Assistance Commission has selected four seniors from Aquin Cen- anna Surtz, Katie Ubertino, Brooke O’Carroll, Grace Ixpata, and Coach Vic Mead. tral Catholic High School in Freeport as Illinois State Scholars. They are (from left) Zeita Gastel, Michael Giaimo, Evan James, and Kamryn Steil. Rosary state champs Rosary High School in Aurora boasts several state cross country stars this year, including sophomore Lianna Surtz (right) who won the 1A championship, finishing first at the IHSA state meet in Peoria on Nov. 9. The Roy- als (above) finished ninth overall, the team’s highest finish at state. Individual results are: Lianna Surtz, first place, 16:41.01; Maia Ita- lia, 41, 18:50.98; Katie Ubertino, 60, 19:10.17; Brooke O’Carroll, 78, 19:34.96; Katie Lifka, 106, 20:11.50; Ann Molenhouse, 115, 20:22.74; Grace Ixpata, 145, 20:49.17. Surtz was also the sectional, regional and conference champion this season. Rosary won the Metro Confer- Rosary HS athletes sign ence cross country championship on Oct. 19 Four Rosary High School athletes signed letters of intent in November to pursue their and the 1A regional championship on Oct. 26. sport at the college level. They are (from left) Paige Gardella, daughter of Amy and Jo- Rosary runners took four of the top five places seph Gardella, who will play volleyball for Ithaca College in Ithaca, N.Y.; Zoe Ketterman, at regionals, and had seven runners in the top daughter of Samantha and Travis Ketterman, who will play basketball for Purdue Univer- 20.The Royals finished third overall at section- sity–Fort Wayne in Fort Wayne, Ind.; Molly Mulvey, daughter of Sandy and Patrick Mul- als on Nov. 2. The team is led by coach Vic vey, who will play volleyball for St. Norbert College in DePere, Wis.; and Chloe Saltijeral, Mead and is nicknamed the Rosary “Meads” — daughter of Cherri and Clayton Saltijeral, who will play softball for Missouri University a play on the swim team, the Rosary “Beads.” State Champion Lianna Surtz of Science and Technology in Rolla, Mo. Rosary is a Catholic girls high school in Aurora.

12 | FRIDAY DECEMBER 20, 2019 | The Observer Worth the Wait It’s Nearly Time for the Gloria

or most of us it is difficult Advent in our heavenly duty. As creatures, we have a fundamental to concentrate fully on the homeland. obligation to offer right homage to the F celebration of the Mass. Reflection The Christian, Creator. We hold the joyful burden of I miss the Gloria. There. I said it. I miss filled to the brim being bidden to practice the virtue of (Observer file photo) Father the Gloria. Jonathan with joy and religion. At the same time, I recognize how wise Fourth Bakkelund praise, can no So, yeah. I miss the Gloria. our Holy Mother, the Church is. She’s so St. Peter, longer contain The Church sets this great prayer aside Week of wise to omit the Gloria during the season Geneva, himself. He during Advent (and Lent) to stir up in our of Advent, except, of course, for a couple pastor can’t keep it in. hearts a longing. Advent of solemnities during this profound season And so, after We all know absence makes the heart of grace. confessing his grow fonder. When we deny ourselves, I love the Gloria. It’s among the sin, his brokenness, his wobbliness, his it makes delayed gratification that much oldest texts in Christian worship. It was rough spots, he bursts into song praising sweeter. delivered to us by none other than the God and giving Glory to His Holy Name. During these final days of Advent, with angelic choirs. We sing the Gloria in every solemn the great high holy day of Christmas just It reminds us of the heavenly song celebration of worship in order to thank around the corner, I pray that the Lord being sung eternally around God’s God for blessings bestowed, for keeping us, will fan into a flame not just my longing Almighty throne. It unites our voices sustaining us, guiding us, redeeming us. for the Gloria, but for Him whom we with those of the angels and all the And, we sing it because it’s our job, our praise each time we sing it. St. Joseph Trusts, Acts in the Face of Mystery

FATHER HERB WEBER God’s plan that is confronted with this, and that context was that Joseph Catholic News Service intercepts human big decisions. was already, according to Scripture, a understanding. A nun who is just and compassionate man. s the Church contemplates the Joseph, in short, changing ministries He had already been allowing God role of Joseph in the Nativity surrenders himself recently told me to direct his life. In the New Testament event, encountering mystery A to the mystery. He that she is taking he proclaims no great canticles as Mary is a great place to start. does not understand a year off after her did in Luke’s Gospel. Instead, there is Matthew’s Gospel, which is read at but he trusts. Likely, present assignment quiet certitude and commitment. Sunday Mass throughout this coming trust is the more to discern the In Joseph’s own prayer life, there year, provides the image of Joseph valuable attribute. future. Perhaps likely already had been some sense of facing crucial questions but ultimately That leads to that time away can trust in the mystery of God. He was entrusting himself to the plan of God, another aspect of be clarifying and well versed in the Torah and would which he totally and completely cannot this account, one renewing. However, understand. By faith, however, he have known God to be both immanent of discernment. discernment and transcendent. allows himself to be drawn into the This is the doesn’t just happen His experience would have included tremendous mystery of Incarnation. process by which when people leave daily prayer and a great expectation Mystery, by definition, is beyond humans attempt to their present day- of the promise of salvation. For this to analysis and control. Mystery is understand God’s to-day tasks. unfold in his own married life would attractive but befuddling. Encountering will in their lives. Discernment, have been beyond comprehension, God as Mystery admits that God is Even if really simply stated, is an but not beyond his sense of God’s beyond human ability to know fully. knowing God is awareness of God (CNS photo/Crosiers) commitment to the Israelites. Yet God as mystery invited Joseph to limited, coming to St. Joseph is depicted in a mosaic at Gal- already active in All this leads us to the final accept what was happening, namely know God’s plan way Cathedral in Ireland. our lives each day. the ultimate revelation of God, God as can be much more As such, people meditation on Joseph and the human! likely. become conscious of their strengths and Incarnation. Once he had accepted the It is likely that many people, perhaps Over the years I have known many weaknesses. power of this mystery, he had to face a especially men, put themselves in the people who spend a great amount of It is not simply what someone wants life of great commitment. There would position of Joseph. How can someone time “discerning” a big decision that to do but also what that person is called be challenges and misunderstandings accept the fact that the innocent and must be made. to do. If a person is faithful to prayer of (Lk 2:41-52), no doubt. pure betrothed woman he is planning to Often they go into overdrive trying to listening and is surrounded by honest But in the face of all this, precisely marry is already with child? find out God’s plan for them regarding support, God’s plan becomes clear because of his willingness to live in the Furthermore, he knows he is not the vocation choice, use of personal wealth much more easily. mystery of God, his life became one of father. Joseph’s heart must have ached. or even how to vote. These can be Joseph simply could not have decided peacefulness and gentle humility. Those The use of dreams in Matthew’s major decisions, but the real process of to accept pregnant Mary because of a are gifts given to all who trust in the Gospel is a great way to convey discernment must start way before one dream alone. There was a context for power of God working in their lives.

United States Conference of Catholic Bishops

Copyright © 2019, United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, Washington, DC. All rights reserved. Quote from Pope Francis, copyright © 2018, Libreria Editrice Vaticana, State. All rights reserved. Scripture excerpts are taken from the New American Bible, Revised Edition, copy- right © 2010, 1991, 1986, 1970 Confraternity of Christian Doctrine, Inc., Washington, DC. All rights reserved. Photo: Getty Images. Nation/World The Observer | FRIDAY DECEMBER 20, 2019 | 13 Secrecy Law Lightened News in Brief Netflix satire about gay Jesus Pope lifts secrecy infuriates thousands of Brazilians obligation for those SAO PAULO (CNS)—The latest episode of Brazil’s comedy group Porta dos Fundos on Netflix has angered thousands who report having of Brazilians from different religions. The group’s Christmas been abused special, “A Primeira Tentacao de Cristo” (“The First Temptation of Christ”) is a satire about a gay Jesus bringing his boyfriend VATICAN CITY (CNS)— home to meet Mary and Joseph. Reaction to the 40-minute Pope Francis has abolished the show was quick. Brazilians took to social media and the inter- obligation of secrecy for those net, calling for a boycott of Netflix and the cancellation of the who report having been sexu- ally abused by a priest and for parody. The episode, say many, ridicules the Christian faith. those who testify in a church tri- The Brazilian bishops’ conference criticized the short film and (CNS photo/Evandro Inetti, pool) said there is a limit to freedom of expression. The conference al or process having to do with Pope Francis and prelates from around the world attend a penitential clerical sexual abuse. liturgy during a meeting on the protection of minors in the church at “repudiates recent facts that, in the name of freedom of ex- “The person who files the re- the Vatican Feb. 23. The pope announced that he has abolished the ob- pression and artistic creativity, profoundly assault the Christian port, the person who alleges to ligation of secrecy for abuse victims during Vatican trials and processes. faith. Ridiculing the belief of a group, whatever it may be, in have been harmed and the wit- addition to constituting an offense under criminal law, means nesses shall not be bound by of Vatican to maintain asked Pope Francis to recon- disrespecting all people, hurting the search for an effectively any obligation of silence with confidentiality “shall not pre- sider Vatican norms maintain- democratic society that values all its citizens,” said the state- regard to matters involving the vent the fulfillment of the obli- ing the imposition of “pontifical ment, released Dec. 12. Julio Cesar Ribeiro, a federal represen- gations laid down in all places secret” in the church’s judicial case,” the pope ordered in a new tative, announced he was cancelling his Netflix subscription by civil laws, including any re- handling of clerical sex abuse “Instruction On the Confiden- because of the episode. Ribeiro is part of the evangelical base porting obligations, and the ex- and other grave crimes. tiality of Legal Proceedings,” in the Brazilian Congress. published Dec. 17. ecution of enforceable requests But when Pope Francis called In an accompanying note, of civil judicial authorities.” the presidents of the world’s Guards attacked at national shrine in Bishop Juan Ignacio Arrieta, Archbishop , bishops’ conferences to the Vat- D.C. in apparent domestic incident secretary of the Pontifical Coun- adjunct secretary of the Con- ican for a summit on the abuse cil for Legislative Texts, said the gregation for the Doctrine of crisis in February, victims and WASHINGTON (CNS)—Washington authorities apprehended change regarding the “pontifical the Faith and the Vatican’s chief experts alike urged a revision of a suspect in an incident involving an attack Dec. 10 against secret” has nothing to do with abuse investigator, told America the policy. two security guards at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the the seal of the sacrament of con- Magazine the new law makes Cardinal of Immaculate Conception, the fession. clear that “anybody who dis- Munich and Freising, Germany, largest Marian shrine in the closes misconduct or a crime said the abolition of absolute se- United States, at the height of Confessional seal stands and anybody who is impacted crecy — the “pontifical secret,” its busiest season. Authorities “The absolute obligation to by the misconduct or the crime, — was not the same thing as re- believe the incident involves a observe the sacramental seal,” and the witnesses, should never moving all obligations for confi- domestic dispute but did not he said, “is an obligation im- be subject to a vow or a promise dentiality. give details or identify those The “secrecy of the office” posed on the priest by reason of of silence on the fact that they involved. Officials said the have reported.” still applies to Vatican officials (CNS photo/Tyler Orsburn) the position he holds in admin- incident was not targeting the Metropolitan Police Department The new law, he said, explic- and others involved in an in- istering the sacrament of con- shrine. In a Dec. 10 statement, personnel and cars are seen Dec. 10 itly states people have a “moral vestigation or trial of a cleric fession and not even the peni- the shrine’s director of com- on the campus of The Catholic Uni- tent can free him of it.” duty” to cooperate with civil accused of abuse or of a bishop munications, Jacquelyn Hayes, versity of America in Washington. The instruction was published authorities in reporting and in- or religious superior accused of said both guards were injured by the Vatican along with chang- vestigating the crime of abuse. cover-up. es to the already-updated “Sac- “Moreover, there is an obliga- The basic professional secre- in the 9:15 a.m. incident, and at a news conference later in the ramentorum Sanctitatis Tutela” tion not to bind people who dis- cy serves, as the new law says, day, the shrine’s rector, Msgr. Walter Rossi, said the suspect alleg- (“Safeguarding the Sanctity close misconduct or crimes by to protect “the good name, im- edly used his car to hit a female security guard “with whom he of the Sacraments”). The 2001 any promise or vow of silence,” age and privacy of all persons was acquainted,” trying to run her over. He did not explain their document issued by St. John he explained. involved.” relationship. Paul II outlines procedures for In a separate interview with Salute CSW and promote your the investigation and trial of any Vatican News, Archbishop Sci- member of the clergy accused cluna described as an “epochal business to Catholic Readers in of sexually abusing a child or change” the pope’s decision to vulnerable adult or accused of drop the “pontifical secret” — 11 counties in northern Illinois. acquiring, possessing or distrib- the highest level of confidential- Salute Catholic Schools Week! uting child pornography. ity. “That means, of course, the In the first of the amend- question of transparency now is ments, Pope Francis changed being implemented at the high- the definition of child pornogra- est level,” he said. phy. Previously the subject was Trials won’t be public a person under the age of 14. The new description raises that The new rules do not mean to “under the age of 18, ... by that documents from Vatican whatever means or using what- abuse investigations and trials ever technology.” will be made public, he said, but In Congregation for the Doc- “they are available for authori- trine of the Faith procedures, ties, or people who are interest- Pope Francis has removed the ed parties, and authorities who Support Catholic Education with a requirement that the legal rep- have a statutory jurisdiction congratulatory message or advertisement. resentative of the accused be a over the matter.” priest. Now “The role of advo- In the past, when a govern- Ad Deadline: January 15 — Publication: January 24 cate or procurator” may be filled ment or court asked the Vati- by a “member of the faithful can for information on a case, Reserve your ad space NOW possessing a doctorate in the response usually was that law, who is approved by the pre- the material was covered by Let us create one to enhance siding judge of the college.” “pontifical secret.” Now, Arch- nt hae an ad bishop Scicluna said, once “all your business at NO additional cost. Biggest change the formalities of international The abolition of the pontifical law” are fulfilled, communica- — Contact — Ad Deadline: 1-15-2020 secret over the entire Vatican tion with other authorities “and Kevin McCarthy @ 815-399-4300 ext. 385 process is the greatest change the sharing of information and or email Publication: 1-24-2020 made. And, not only are victims documentation are facilitated.” The Offi cial Newspaper of the Catholic Diocese of Rockford and witnesses free to discuss the In September 2017, members [email protected] case, the amended law specifies of the GALENA - FREEPORT - STERLING - ROCKFORD - DEKALB - CRYSTAL LAKE - ELGIN - AURORA that the still-in-effect obligation for the Protection of Minors 14 | FRIDAY DECEMBER 20, 2019 | The Observer Christmas Season What Does God Want for Christmas?

ne of the most powerful lines God want for Christmas tells us not to be afraid or worried; not from our yearly Christmas Christmas?” Reflection to be wavering in our faith; not to be O readings comes from the Prophet It’s filled with angry at people or the world; and not Isaiah. It reads, “The people who walked in suggested Father John to be wrapped in any form of darkness. darkness have seen a great light.” answers, but to McNamara In a world crowded with continued Ever since Adam and Eve committed be honest — St. Bridget, violence, death, despair, depression, trials, (CNS photo/Paul Haring) the first sin, humanity has experienced what can we Loves Park, illnesses, divisions, bitterness, and sin, we parochial vicar a journey through darkness. And this possibly give to are reminded that the Light of Christmas hrist darkness continues as a result of personal God? Strictly conquers all darkness. Our response — mas sin. Yet because God is love and mercy speaking He simply to allow ourselves to be touched by C and does not abandon His people, in the does not want or this powerful Light. Season fullness of time, at the perfect moment in need anything. Perhaps one suggestion What does God want for Christmas? history, He sent His Son into the world to though — God wants us to “Experience He wants us to experience His Light in Dec. 25 - dispel the power of darkness. His Light.” In other words, what God any areas of our lives that are dark. Has anyone ever heard the catchy wants is what we need! May we welcome this wonderful Light! Jan. 12 Christmas song entitled “What does The Light of Christmas in our lives Merry Christmas to all!

espite the Dcommercial Credit the Irish for the Christmas Dreidel emphasis on The spinning top called a dreidel is, Eventually it was called “dreidel,” letters on the “trundl” were for German Christmas during today, associated with the Jewish feast of among other names, in Yiddish. The word words meaning “nothing,” “half,” Advent, the actual Hanukkah. But that would not be the case means “little spinning thing.” Today the “everything” and “put in,” which Christmas season top is more commonly called a “sevivon.” if it weren’t for the Irish. corresponded to the rules of the game. begins with the Also credited with saving civilization Some researchers believe the Roman Using the corresponding Yiddish letters, after the Romans lost power and before the words could be nes gadol haya sham, birth of Jesus. Don’t Medieval Europe regained its strength meaning “a great miracle happened cut your family (“How the Irish Saved Civilization” by there.” That miracle was the eight days of celebration short. Thomas Cahill), they are the source of the light from a tiny bit of oil when the Jewish four-sided spinner. Temple was rededicated in Jerusalem. Originally used in gambling games, the And the word “hanukkah” in Hebrew top made its way to Germany — possibly means “dedication.” by way of England — in the form of a — Sharon Boehlefeld game called “totum” or “teetotum.” The game was popular at Christmas time. In (Observer photo/ Adiel lo - Own work; CC BY-SA 3.0; https://commons. Sources: https://forward.com/culture/326379/the-true- wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=6587839) history-of-the-dreidel/; https://www.myjewishlearning. German, the game piece became “torrel” Dreidels are popular toys in Jewish homes com/article/the-origin-of-the-dreidel/; https://time. or “trundl.” during Hanukkah, but their roots are Irish. com/5054877/history-hanukkah-traditions/

hen the magi had departed, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream and said, “Rise, take the child and his mother, flee to Egypt, and stay there until I tell you. Herod is going to search ‘Wfor the child to destroy him.” Joseph rose and took the child and his mother by night and departed for Egypt. He stayed there until the death of Herod, that what the Lord had said through the prophet might be fulfilled, Out of Egypt I called my son.’ — Matthew 2:13-15

Copyright © 2019, United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, Washington, DC. All rights reserved. Quote from Pope Francis, copyright © 2018, Libreria Editrice Vaticana, Vatican City State. All rights reserved. Quote from Matthew is taken from the New American Bible, Revised Edition, copyright © 2010, 1991, 1986, 1970 Confraternity of Christian Doctrine, Inc., Washington, DC. All rights reserved. Illustration: Getty Images The Observer | FRIDAY DECEMBER 20, 2019 | 15 The Junior Observer Vol. 34, No. 4 Published by The Observer, Catholic Newspaper of the Diocese of Rockford [email protected]

A Good News Story Q&A An Angel Calms Joseph in a Dream

Catholic News Service “Do not be afraid to take the throne of David His father, and What oseph was a carpenter who Mary ... into your He will rule over the house of Jacob lived in Nazareth. He was a home.” forever, and of His kingdom there will famous very devout and righteous man be no end.” person was Jwho always obeyed God’s laws. Not long after he had decided to Although Joseph was not wealthy, divorce Mary, Joseph had a dream. An Joseph he did come from a very important and angel of God spoke to him. well-known family. One of his ances- “Joseph, son of David, do not be related tors was King David, the shepherd boy afraid to take Mary your wife into your whom God chose to become the ruler (CNS) home,” the angel said. “For it is through to? of the Israelites during Old Testament the Holy Spirit that this child has been times. Bible Trivia conceived in her. She will bear a son and Joseph was betrothed to a virgin Why did Joseph and Mary present you are to name Him Jesus, because He named Mary. “Betrothed” means that the baby Jesus at the Temple? will save His people from their sins.”

To whom Joseph and Mary were married, but (Hint: Luke 2:22-24) What the angel said to Joseph ful- To consecrate him to God. to him consecrate To

was they were not yet living together as Answer: filled an Old Testament prophesy that husband and wife in the same house. God had revealed to his people through Joseph One day, Joseph learned that Mary that Mary had been visited by the an- one of his prophets: “Behold, the vir- was going to have a baby. Joseph decid- gel , who told her that the Holy gin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall name him Emmanuel.” Em- betrothed? ed that, according to the law, he should Spirit would come upon her. not remain married to her. Since he was manuel means “God is with us.” “You will conceive in your womb such a good man, Joseph did not want When Joseph woke up, he did ex- Read more to bring any shame or harm to Mary, and bear a son, and you shall name him actly as the angel had told him to do. about it in so he decided he would not make a big Jesus,” Gabriel told Mary. “He will be Instead of divorcing Mary, he took her Matthew 1 fuss about divorcing her. great and will be called Son of the Most into his home and waited for Jesus to What Joseph did not realize was High, and the Lord God will give Him be born.

Puzzle

Below are some events surrounding the early life of Jesus. Put them in the order in which they happened. (Hint: Answers are in Luke 2, except C, which can be found in Matthew 2:10- 11.)

__ A. Joseph and Mary lose Jesus after a festival.

__ B. Jesus is born in Bethlehem.

__ C. The Magi visit Jesus and give him gifts.

__ D. Jesus is presented at the Temple.

(Photo provided) __ E. Joseph and Mary name their St. Catherine of Siena School Students in Community Event Some of St. Catherine of Siena School students pose before a community-wide event Dec. 6. They baby Jesus

presented a scene called “Come Let Us Adore Him” at the annual Dickens in Dundee living windows A. 5; B. 1; C. 2; D. 4; E. 3 E. 4; D. 2; C. 1; B. 5; A.

event in downtown West Dundee. The students showed the true meaning of Christmas to all as patrons Answer: walked throughout Dundee visiting all of the displays. 16 | FRIDAY DECEMBER 20, 2019 | The Observer Our Catholic View Rudolph to the Rescue: Triumph of an ‘Under-deer’

Robert May was painfully aware of the distance May delved into the psychology of his characters, between his dreams and his reality. penning a more dramatic narrative arc than we find The 34-year-old Dartmouth graduate had long in the famous 1949 song recorded by Gene Autry and fantasized about writing the great American novel. the beloved 1964 stop-action TV special narrated by Instead, he was Burl Ives. Field Notes working a mediocre Readers see Santa’s fog-induced struggles: “He job as an ad man tangled in tree-tops again and again ... .” We also see by Christina for Montgomery his diplomacy, recruiting Rudolph by praising his Capecchi Ward, cranking out “wonderful forehead” and proving “extra-polite.” forgettable copy The sweetness of Rudolph’s redemption is spooned about silk sheets out so liberally it reveals May’s lingering boyhood http://ReadChristina.com and white shirts. wounds. “It was his opinion of himself that gave rise He lived in a tiny to Rudolph,” his daughter, Barbara, later said. apartment with his ill wife and young daughter. Where Autry simply sings “then all the reindeer One day in 1939, May’s boss tapped him for an loved him,” May offers more detail. “The funny- unexpected assignment. For years Montgomery Ward faced fellow they always called names and practically had bought coloring books and distributed them at never allowed in their games was now to be envied stores as a Christmas giveaway. This time around by all, far and near. For no greater honor can come to executives decided to save money by creating their a deer ... .” own booklet — and asked May to write it. If that’s not enough, he lets Rudolph land His thoughts turned to the Lincoln Park Zoo. When his Christmas-night flight right in front of “his he took his 4-year-old, Barbara, she was drawn to the handsomer playmates,” noting that “those bad deer deer. who used to do nothing but tease him would now He also channeled his own childhood insecurities have done anything ... only to please him!” (Image provided) that remained poignant; he’d been teased as a small, Even more: “They felt even sorrier they had been shy boy. An underdog story like the Ugly Duckling bad when Santa said: ‘Rudolph, I never have had a The book was a huge hit, and the retailer printed appealed to him. deer quite so brave or so brilliant as you ... .’ ” more than 2 million copies that Christmas season 80 Then, looking out onto the flickering street lights He is promptly declared “Commander-In-Chief,” a years ago. one foggy winter night, came the inspiration: “A May types in capital letters. May was eventually given all rights to Rudolph, nose! A bright red nose that would shine through fog May took great care with each stanza, running which provided a good livelihood. He experienced like a floodlight,” he said. them by Barbara. When his wife died in July, his a dramatic arc of his own with profound spiritual May wanted an alliterative name for his reindeer boss told him to stop working on the booklet. underpinnings: remarrying a devout Catholic, and considered Reginald — too British — and Rollo, May refused to quit. converting to Catholicism and having five more which sounded too jolly for a misfit. Rudolph was “I needed Rudolph more than ever,” he wrote. children, one of whom became a nun. still colorful but more sympathetic. In late August, he finished the story. Ward seized it His biography can encourage anyone who feels The tale had a decidedly plaintive, Depression-era as a lesson for his clerks, celebrating in an in-house crippled by the gap between hopes and reality. It tone, describing an outcast who “wept” at his peers’ memo Rudolph’s “service, the right attitude and a reminds us to trust in the bigger picture, in the One taunting. desire to do his best.” who isn’t done writing your story.

Scripture Reflection for Dec. 22, 4th Sunday in Advent Faith Alive Layered Mysteries Pio Nono BY KEVIN PERROTTA all the while, unseen, God is present, Returns to Catholic News Service growing in the darkness of His mother’s womb. the Vatican t Christmas, we are dealing There is an additional mystery to all Blessed Pius IX, the pope with incomprehensibles. of this. It is the mystery that it is for us. known as Pio Nono, returned to The one through whom It was not only into the ordinary Rome in April 1850 under French God brought everything world of Nazareth that God’s Son came, protection. His temporal rule was Ainto existence and gave every living and not only into the first century. His not yet a reality confined to the thing life coming among us is permanent and for (CNS file photo) — His Son people in every place — not only in past. His flight, however, pre- Pope Pius IX is pictured in an un- — received Nazareth but in Newark, Nashville and saged tumultuous times ahead dated portrait. He convoked the human life New Orleans. during Pio Nono’s long papacy, First Vatican Council in 1869. from a young This was implied already, ahead of which lasted into 1878. woman and time, by the prophecy of Isaiah that is I tell this story here because Pio Nono convoked the First Vati- became her Sunday’s first reading. In Isaiah’s day, can Council in 1869. Continued pressures upon the child. If a child was to be born who would be surely influenced the attitudes of many council participants. God’s power called “God is with us” (“Emmanuel” Jesuit Father John W. O’Malley, a Georgetown University and splendor — Is 7:14). This was a foreshadowing church historian, wrote that for 19th-century “the infinitely exceed our understanding, of Jesus. His Son’s taking on our human nature What is vital, and most deeply struggle to maintain the (papal) states became a major focus in seems even farther beyond our grasp. mysterious, is that Jesus is God with the struggle against the modern world” (“What Happened at The mystery is that what is humanity not in a merely general way Vatican II”). unimaginably great entered so totally but in a way that is individual and But wait! Wasn’t it the that took up into our everyday world as to be personal. In the second reading, Paul the modern world as a key concern? now virtually invisible. At the end of tells the Christians in Rome, “You also Between Vatican I and Vatican II, telephones, television, Sunday’s Gospel, Joseph “took his wife ... are called to belong to Christ Jesus” auto and air travel, democracy and an accent on human rights into his home” (Mt 1:24). (Rom 1:6). spread broadly. The modern worlds of 1869 and the 1960s were Picture it: Joseph and Mary living God sent his Son into the world for so unalike! together in a little stone house (three humanity as a whole, yes; but in doing or four rooms, a courtyard, a storage so, he had each of us in mind. When Still, “the church has always had the duty of scrutinizing the basement and a water cistern), our time to be born into this world signs of the times and of interpreting them in the light of the jammed in a dense cluster of similar arrived, he intended to call us into life Gospel,” Vatican II affirmed in its 1965 “Pastoral Constitution on houses. The neighbors, and Joseph with His Son. the Church in the Modern World.” and Mary themselves, go about their Christmas is a celebration to which It said, “The joys and the hopes, the griefs and the anxieties” routines from day to day — farming, each of us has received a personal of the world’s people are the joys, hopes, griefs and anxieties of construction, weaving, cooking and invitation. Christ’s followers too. so on. — David Gibson for CNS People come and go, sharing news, For reflection: Reread Sunday’s Next: The Church, the World and Vatican I telling stories, cracking jokes. And Gospel as a message written to you. Our Catholic View The Observer | FRIDAY DECEMBER 20, 2019 | 17 Di erent View CNS/Joe Heller Sharing the Joy

When each year comes to a close it is a common practice to take a look back at the year that was and sometimes beyond. The annual retrospective began early for me this year when I received an e-letter from a good friend and colleague announcing his retirement from writing. Thirty-three years ago when From the Editor I joined the Catholic press I had the good fortune to meet by Penny some pretty incredible people Wiegert that included some wonderful Editor priests and sisters. One of those The Observer priests was Father John Catoir [email protected] who at the time was director of The Christophers. Some people might remember him from his many years of hosting Christopher Closeup on television. He was a great mentor and supporter of the Catholic press and even served as the president of the Catholic Press Association for the United States and Canada. He was later honored with its highest award — the St. Francis de Sales statue. Later in his life he would lead a media ministry and become known as “The Messenger of Joy.” And that is the best way I can think of to describe him. Father Catoir did everything with a sense of joy in Christ and I am confi dent that’s why God gifted him with being such a skilled communicator and priest. When I fi rst read his letter I must confess a tear came to my eyes. Make 2020 a Clear Vision 20/20 Year But then I remembered how he always approached any problem or event — joy fi rst. So I will try with even greater conviction to practice what I have learned from Father Catoir — lead with joy and confi dence As we start a new Charitably Speaking 20th century who know year, it’s ironic that our their struggle will in Christ and everything else will fall into place. Thank you Father John, for your great example and friendship. Thanks for showing us political, religious and by Patrick Winn unfortunately never end. moral vision is not 20/20. They know too, however, the path to our Lord and may you continue to walk with Him in joy. Director, Rockford Diocese My to you dear readers, is Father Catoir’s fi nal Many of the seasoned Catholic Charities that their actions, protests, column. veterans of the civil rights and willingness to endure struggles of the 1950s and rocks, spittle, jail and [email protected] Rejoice in all Circumstances ’60s have died or retired sometimes the deaths from the scene. Their departures can lull of their colleagues, have changed the By Father John Catoir newer generations into forgetting that in world signifi cantly, albeit not completely. “Rejoice in all Circumstances,” I agree with St. Paul, because very practical ways, the crusade was a Successors to those activists need to know my Faith urges me to believe everything that Jesus taught. When movement headed by religious leaders and remember, as St. Augustine said, “An I believe in God the Father Almighty, the Creator of heaven and whose voices resonated because their unjust law is a code that is out of harmony earth, and in His only begotten Son, Our Lord Jesus Christ, I message awakened consciences. with the moral law.” Think of how many of believe fi rmly in the truth of His words, “I have come that your Strategically, those who are fi lled with those codes are now being enacted. joy may be full, that my joy may be in you and your joy may be zeal about the continued attacks on the 2020 can be a year when we remove complete.” right to life can bring their enthusiasm the cataracts I believe Jesus always told us the truth. Let’s ponder this to broader fi ghts without diluting their impeding our together. Here’s how I approach this issue. Based on the words commitment to ending abortion. The moral vision. would of Jesus, which were reaffi rmed by St. Thomas: “The center of stubborn cancers of racism, sexism and It can be a year the personality is in the will.” Modern psychology agrees with religious persecution cannot be allowed to when we decide to ‘I agree with both of them, so I have concluded that it is possible to put on the relapse in our consciences. work in solidarity St. Augustine will to be grateful and joyful in all circumstances. For example, the U.S. Conference of with all people In spite of sad feelings we can choose joy over sorrow even in Catholic Bishops states unequivocally that of good will in that “an unjust emotionally down times. Mourning the dead can be done with “racism is a life issue,” and Pope Francis advocating for the focus on the eternal joy of heaven. Many fi nd this impossible, has identifi ed human traffi cking as a crime justice for the law is no law and I understand their doubts, but thoughts can really control against humanity. born and the feelings. We can focus on the truth that heaven is a better place Every day, Catholic Charities unborn; justice at all.” ’ to be. In the long run, Joy prevails over sorrow. Of course, many organizations around the country are for the poor and Martin Luther King, Jr. lack the faith to rise above their feelings, but as I’ve mentioned engaged in right-to-life matters. Every day, marginalized; so often, the will has the power to control our thoughts. we encounter those who share our Catholic justice under the If we have any hope of being a person of honor and dignity, beliefs and those who have other faith First Amendment so it does not become we must follow the path toward holiness. Take a little time to traditions, or no expressed belief at all. just an historic but irrelevant constitutional think about this. The thoughts we think control the emotions And every day we remember we are add-on. we feel, which eventually control the actions we perform. We part of a larger culture that seems to be 2020 can be the year we defog our need to accept Christian ideals as worthy goals. Of course, inexorably edging its way toward snubbing moral vision to achieve 20/20 clarity of we are weak and sinful. Of course, we need Divine help and others’ consciences. what service and justice mean in this age mercy. Mediocrity is the human condition but Christ called us to 2020 can be the year we resolve to of attack against the new generation of perfection; therefore, holiness is not only possible, but it is our achieve a 20/20 focus on unjust laws — supporters of life. destiny. laws that mandate religious institutions to 2020 will be a year that Catholic When Jesus said, “Love one another, as I have loved you,” He fund or facilitate actions or behaviors that Charities will continue the practical side knew we could rise to the challenge with the help of His grace. are contrary to moral teaching; laws that of our mission to do and encourage good Wherever there is love, there is service, and wherever there is deny individuals and religious institutions works and stand with other people of good service there is sacrifi ce, which often involves suff ering. Jesus the right to defi ne for themselves what to will to advocate for justice. died on a cross to save our souls for heavenly bliss. It’s all one- believe and how to faithfully observe those Merry Christmas from your Catholic belief system. beliefs. Charities. Let’s make 2020 a year in which I believe in the holy , the communion of 2020 can be the year we honor veterans we achieve mission statement 20/20 clarity saints, the forgiveness of sin, the resurrection of the body, and of the civil rights movement of the mid- of vision. life everlasting. Amen.

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Palczynski, 88, Sept. 5; Kyle Ja- 46, Nov. 15; Marie J. Murray, 78, Deaths Parish offices may forward death and wedding information cob Nicely, 16, Sept. 13; Donald Nov. 19; Carole M. Mack, 66, Nov. using forms at http://observer.rockforddiocese.org. Click on BATAVIA—Holy Cross: Jaclyn E. McElmeel, 81, Oct. 5; Florence 24; Helen M. Piker, 99, Nov. 29; Ann Baker, 96, Oct. 13; Peter J. Kathleen Elizabeth Farmer, 76, Contact Us , then click on the death or wedding form. You may Marie Pahura, 37, Aug. 11; Arlene Jushka, 74, Nov. 8; Ann M. Grube, Dec 8; also request death and wedding postcards by calling 815-399- 4300, ext. 383. We encourage you to send the information as Ann Fuesz, 75, Aug. 25; Ruth H. 50, Nov. 12; Monica Acquaviva, DEKALB—St. Mary: Frederico Y. Garcia, 87, Dec. 9; soon as you receive it. Thank you. DIXON—St. Patrick: Robert K. Dec. 6. to meditate on the significance of Bellini, 86, Dec. 3; the holy day. We need to make sure DURAND—St. Mary/St. Pat- Life Moment that we are exchanging love more rick: Alice Dugan, 100, Nov 24; than exchanging gifts. Mary Waller, 84, Dec. 2; Pray: That our Holy Father and all Courtesy of Parish Publications bishops, priests, and deacons may FREEPORT—St. Thomas Aqui- “Stewardship” newsletter nas: Martha G. Glos, 93, Dec. 11; effectively proclaim to the world GENOA—St. Catherine of Ge- the joyful news that God is with us. Mass Meditation noa: Paul Anthony O’Connor, 85, Courtesy of www.priestsforlife.org Dec. 8; Bernice Waxman, 87, Dec. Sunday, Dec. 22 (4th Advent): 10; Stewardship Moment When he discovered that Mary was with child, Joseph resolved to MCHENRY—St. Patrick: Charles “Chuck” Budreck, 95, Dec. 8; Stewardship of Christmas: We end their engagement with as little need to be good stewards of Christ- disgrace as possible. But obedient SAVANNA—St. John the Bap- mas in our own homes, in our own to the voice of God, he changed tist: Rita Gilman, 92, Nov 21. families, and in our own churches. those plans and became instead Weddings We need to be good stewards by the protector of the child Jesus and reaching out to bring Christmas His mother, Mary. God grant that I may be as open to the leading of MCHENRY—Church of Holy to the unfortunate, the needy and the Holy Spirit! Apostles: Ashley Marie Clinging- aged. In all the hustle and bustle of smith and Robert Thomas Nagel, the season, we need to take time Courtesy of Sharon Hueckel Peace as a Journey of Hope From page 2 the unhealthy mentality of and exercised in dialogue rather than protected and threats and fear? How do we and mutual trust. The desire preserved (see Homily at break the current dynamic of for peace lies deep within Lampedusa, 8 July 2013). distrust? the human heart, and we How, then, do we undertake a We need to pursue a should not resign ourselves journey of peace and mutual genuine fraternity based on to seeking anything less than respect? How do we break our common origin from God this. Creches Tell the Nativity Story ...

From page 3 but also centuries. St. Francis tury, small Nativity sets began ”We have pretty comprehen- of Assisi is credited with erect- to be displayed in homes, al- sive coverage for Europe and ing the first live lowing for even more devout North America,” she said, “so in 1223 in Greccio, , re- customization of the scene. If you or someone you know we’re really excited these days creating the moment using ani- “You have to go to the man- has been the victim of sexual to get donations of materials mals, people and perhaps even ger in order really to know abuse by an employee or mem- ber of the clergy of the Rockford from the African continent, an infant stand-in for Christ. who you are, your identity as Diocese, report the matter to from Asia. We have a great The Basilica of St. Mary Ma- a human person because there Newspapers • Catalogs • Mail Service law enforcement in the county deal of materials from Latin jor in Rome contains fragments is a danger to always consider Business Cards • Magazines • Brochures in which the conduct occurred America.” of a Nativity scene by the 13th- one’s self as interchangeable 815-758-5484 and then please call the hot-line The depiction of the Nativity century sculptor Arnolfo di with another person,” said 121 Industrial Drive • DeKalb, IL 60115 number: 815-293-7540. spans across not only cultures, Cambio. Around the 18th cen- Father Roten.

The Observer accepts paid obituaries from funeral homes for members of parishes in the Diocese of Rockford. Parishioners may ask funeral homes with which they work to call 815/399-4300 for information. Media /Arts The Observer | FRIDAY DECEMBER 20, 2019 | 19 At the Movies

Black Christmas man), among others, are transformed. An old game, a familiar plot and eternal verities are a potent combination. (Universal) A-III PARENTS: THIS FILM CONTAINS intense action sequences, Sorority sisters PG-13 (most prominently sexual references, profanity and crude language. Imogen Poots) are The Two Popes preyed on by hooded assail- (Netflix) ants who seem to be con- A-III (CNS photo/Universal) Glossy but highly nected to a fraternity on cam- PG-13 pus. Director and co-writer Sophia Takal uses the horror genre speculative account as a vehicle for a preposterously overblown feminist message, of a visit to the the bottom line of which is that the only good white male is Vatican by Cardinal Jorge Ber- a dead one. If frights are few and some of the plot elements goglio (Jonathan Pryce), the (CNS photo/Peter Mountain, courtesy NETFLIX) future Pope Francis, shortly (CNS file photo) incoherent, at least the mayhem is mostly kept under wraps. Then-Msgr. Fulton J. Sheen is pic- PARENTS: THIS FILM CONTAINS stylized violence with gore, a before the resignation of his predecessor, Benedict XVI (An- tured with an NBC radio micro- scene of nonmarital sensuality, sexual jokes, profanity, rough, thony Hopkins). Screenwriter Anthony McCarten and director phone in an undated file photo. crude and crass language. Fernando Meirelles ill-advisedly try to extol Francis by trashing Benedict, presenting the latter as doddering and detached Bombshell from the realities of modern life. They counterbalance this CUA Holds (Lionsgate) somewhat with an extended sequence of flashbacks show- L The real-life story ing Jesuit Father Bergoglio’s quasi-collaborationist approach Sheen Archives R of the sexual ha- to the brutal military regime that came to power in Argentina rassment scandal following a 1976 coup d’etat, a subject about which they seem WASHINGTON (CNS)— that swamped the Fox News to imagine that they have acquired a clarity and certainty that Thanks to television and radio, organization in 2016, helping has evaded many others. But when it comes to the two pontifi- Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen (CNS photo/Lionsgate) to launch the #MeToo move- cates, their bias is more than apparent. Fine performances by touched countless Americans ment, is given a documentary-like treatment by director Jay the leads and high production values do not compensate ad- using the most advanced tech- Roach, with actors portraying actual TV moguls and personali- equately for a fast and loose version of recent Church history. nology available to him. ties as well as fictional composites. Roger Ailes (John Lithgow) PARENTS: THIS FILM CONTAINS themes requiring mature And years ago, The Catho- oversees a corrosive workplace environment and a conservative discernment, scenes of violence, sexual references, profanity lic University of America in media empire that seeks, in his words, to “frighten” and “titillate.” and a crass term. Washington, using the most ad- He draws an ambitious recruit (Margot Robbie) into his intimate vanced technology it had avail- circle, as he deals with the outspokenness of two of his anchors, Uncut Gems able, digitized its archives on Archbishop Sheen, as well as Megyn Kelly (Charlize Theron) and Gretchen Carlson (Nicole (A24) Kidman). Although the film blurs the line between fiction and maintaining them on the uni- O Relentlessly grat- reality and contains raw and unsettling dialogue and situations, versity campus. R ing character study it has a vital story to tell for discerning adult viewers about re- Virtually everything the uni- of a lowlife jewelry spect, integrity and the law. versity archives knows it pos- merchant (Adam Sandler) in PARENTS: THIS FILM CONTAINS strong sexual content, in- sesses about the host of “The cluding a harassment theme and an offscreen lesbian encoun- New York’s Diamond District Catholic Hour” and other pro- ter, profane and crude language. as he juggles his wife (Idina grams is online, save for the Menzel), the employee who “,” or official position Jumanji: The doubles as his mistress (Julia paper. Next Level Fox), the basketball gam- The copyrighted, two-vol- (Columbia) bling addiction that has left ume set on the life and holiness of Archbishop Sheen, which A-III Playful gender- him in debt to his loan shark includes his writings, was pre- PG-13 bending within the brother-in-law (Eric Bogosian) and his fraught relationship pared for review at the Vati- context of a video- (CNS photo/A24) can’s Congregation for Saints’ game alternate universe with hoops star Kevin Garnett Causes. mingles with an unexpect- (CNS photo/Sony) (playing himself). Although the abrasive tone is deliberate, the “They (the positio) are not edly somber message about effect is that of a skillfully composed sonata for fingernails on a blackboard. shared widely while the cause approaching death. Director Jake Kasdan, who co-wrote the is still proceeding,” said Shane PARENTS: THIS FILM CONTAINS gunplay and physical vio- screenplay with Jeff Pinkner and Scott Rosenberg, has made, in MacDonald, a special collec- lence, gore, benignly viewed adultery, strong sexual content, spite of the sight gags about physical abilities and regenerated tions archivist with Catholic characters, a reflection on adult responsibilities, mortality and implied lesbian activity, voyeurism and nudity, profanities, University’s archives office. self-esteem. Dwayne Johnson and Karen Gillan are the most rough and crude language, an obscene gesture. MacDonald added he be- prominent of the avatars into whom the core cast of the kickoff — Catholic News Service; For the latest reviews, go to http://observer. lieves there is no larger online (Alex Wolff, Morgan Turner, Ser’Darius Blain and Madison Ise- rockforddiocese.org, scroll to the bottom and click on Movie Reviews. archive of the late archbishop.

NOVENAS Thanksgiving Novena to St. Jude and sufferings particularly (here men- St. Jude, helper of the hopeless, pray for possessed during his earthly life to love gain comfort from his patient endurance. O Holy St. Jude, Apostle and Martyr, tion your petition) ... and that I may bless us. Amen. Say this prayer nine times a you deeply and live faithfully your gospel. Bountiful God, in Blessed Francis Xavier great in virtue and rich in miracles, God with you and all the elect throughout day for nine days. Published in gratitude. Divine physician, you infused Blessed Seelos, you have given your people a near kinsman of Jesus Christ, faithful eternity. I promise you, O blessed Jude, Thank you St. Jude. M.R. E.T. Francis Xavier Seelos with the gift of your model for those who labor joyfully in your intercessor of all whom invoke your to be ever mindful of this great favor, and healing. By the help of his prayers, sustain earthly kingdom. May his smile dwell I will never cease to honor you as my Novena to Blessed in me the grace to know your will and the on those who find life burdensome. In special patronage in time of need. To Francis Xavier Seelos you I have recourse from the depth of special and powerful patron and to do strength to overcome my afflictions. For him, our eyes continually behold the all in my power to encourage devotion O my God, I truly believe you are present love of you, make me whole. May I learn gentleness of Jesus Christ, our redeemer. my heart and humbly beg to who God with me. I adore your limitless perfections. has given such great powers to come to to you. Amen. Published in gratitude. from the example of Father Seelos and Amen. B.B. B.B. F.T.B. I thank you for the graces and gifts you my assistance, help me in my present gave to Blessed Francis Xavier Seelos. and urgent petition, in return I promise Thanks to Sacred If it is your holy will, please let him be to make your name known and cause Heart of Jesus declared a of the Church so that you to be invoked, say three Our Fa- Thanks to St. Jude and the Sacred others may know and imitate his holy life. thers, three Hail Marys and Glory Be’s Heart of Jesus for several prayers Through his prayers please give me this for nine consecutive days. Publications answered. May the Sacred Heart of favor (mention your special intentions). O Watch must be promised, St. Jude pray for us Jesus be adored, glorified, loved and Lord, my strength and my redeemer, let all who invoke your aid. AMEN. I have preserved throughout the world, now the words of my mouth and the medita- had my request granted. Publication and forever. Sacred Heart of Jesus pray tions of my heart be pleasing in your sight. Catholic promised. J.J. for us. Holy Mary, Mother of Jesus, pray I offer praise to you for the grace you have Prayer to St. Jude for us. Amen. Pray this prayer with faith, bestowed on your humble missionary, Mass Most Holy Apostle St. Jude, faithful relying on God’s will, as a novena, nine Father Francis Xavier Seelos. May I have servant and friend of Jesus, the Church times a day for nine days. This published the same joyful vigor that Father Seelos Sunday, 6:30 a.m., honors and invokes you universally, as in gratitude. Thank you St. Jude and the patron of hopeless cases and of Sacred Heart of Jesus. M.C. F.F. To have a Novena printed: Send a WREX-TV Channel 13 things despaired of. Pray for me who am Novena to the $10 check for each Novena along with Rockford so needy; make use, I implore you, of Sacred Heart and St. Jude the name of the Novena you want and that particular privilege accorded to you May the Sacred Heart of Jesus be the initials you wish us to use to: Anytime at to bring visible and speedy help where adored, glorified, loved and preserved www.rockforddiocese.org/tvmass help is almost despaired. Come to my throughout the world now and forever. The Observer assistance in this great need that I may Sacred Heart of Jesus, pray for us. St. P.O. Box 7044 Brought to you by the Diocesan Office of receive the consolations and succor of Jude, worker of miracles, pray for us. Rockford, IL 61125 Communications and Publications heaven in all my necessities, tribulations 20 | FRIDAY DECEMBER 20, 2019 | The Observer

THE Prayer Intentions and Scripture Readings OBSERVER http://observer.rockforddiocese.org 815/399-4300 January 2020 SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY Key to listings 1 2 3 4 Blessed Virgin Mary, Basil the Great and Gregory Most Holy Name of Jesus Elizabeth Ann Seton, religious Daily Scripture Readings Mother of God (Holy Day of Nazianzen, bishops, doctors of 1 Jn 2:29-3:6; Ps 98:1, 3-6; 1 Jn 3:7-10; Ps 98:1, 7-9; the Church † Pray for the priests who Obligation) Jn 1:29-34 Jn 1:35-42 have served the Rockford Nm 6:22-27; Ps 67:2-3, 5-6, 1 Jn 2:22-28; Ps 98:1-4; Jn † Father Frederick H. Priests and religious who 8; Gal 4:4-7; Lk 2:16-21 Diocese and who died this 1:19-28 O’Rourke, 1951; Rgt. Rev. are ill † Father Bernard Ratazak, month on the days listed. Pope Emeritus Benedict Donald M. Carroll, 2002 2015 XVI Please pray for these men Bishop David Malloy Pope Francis and women who have a Father J. Robert Camacho Father Mieczyslaw Wit, religious vocation. OFM Conv (Observer le photo) 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 Andre Bessette, religious , priest 1 Jn 4:11-18; Ps 72:1-2, 10, 1 Jn 4:19-5:4; Ps 72:1-2, 1 Jn 5:5-13; Ps 147:12-15, 1 Jn 5:14-21; Ps 149:1-6a, Is 60:1-6; Ps 72:1-2, 7-8, 1 Jn 3:22-4:6; Ps 2:7-8, 10- 1 Jn 4:7-10; Ps 72:1-4, 7-8; 12-13; Mk 6:45-52 14, 15bc, 17; Lk 4:14-22a 19-20; Lk 5:12-16 9b; Jn 3:22-30 10-13; Eph 3:2-3a, 5-6; Mt 12a; Mt 4:12-17, 23-25 Mk 6:34-44 † Father Thomas Smith, † Father Casper J. Huth, † Father Henry L. † Father Charles K. 2:1-12 Priests of the Aurora † Father Anthony B. 1938; † Msgr. Louis J. 1913 Weckerle, 1986 McCarren, 2002 Father Lucjan Szymanski, Buetter, 1914 Franey, 1989; † Msgr. Father Daniel Zdebik, Benedictine Monks Father George Birungyi OFM Conv Retired priests Michael A. Kurz, 2019 OFM Conv. — Swiss-America Missionaries Congregation

12 13 14 15 16 17 18 Baptism of the Lord Hilary, bishop, doctor of the 1 Sm 1:9-20; (Ps) 1 Sm 2:1, 1 Sm 3:1-10, 19-20; Ps 1 Sm 4:1-11; Ps 44:10-11, Anthony, abbot Week of Prayer for Christian Is 42:1-4, 6-7; Ps 29:1-4, Church 4-8; Mk 1:21-28 40:2, 5, 7-10; Mk 1:29-39 14-15, 24-25; Mk 1:40-45 1 Sm 8:4-7, 10-22a; Ps Unity begins 3, 9-10; Acts 10:34-38; Mt 1 Sm 1:1-8; Ps 116:12-19; † Father Edward J. † Msgr. John L. La ey, Msgr. Michael Tierney 89:16-19; Mk 2:1-12 Blessed Virgin Mary 3:13-17 Mk 1:14-20 Lehman, 1977 1966; † Father Anthony J. Father Matthew Priests of the Elgin 1 Sm 9:1-4, 17-19, 10:1a; † Msgr. James J. Bennett, † Father Thomas M. Father Joseph Lutz Becker, 2015 Bergschneider Deanery Ps 21:2-7; Mk 2:13-17 1922 Moore, 1940 Msgr. William McDonnell † Father William P. Sta , 1962 Priests of the DeKalb Transitional deacons Permanent Deacons Deanery

19 20 21 22 23 24 25 2nd Ordinary Time Martin Luther King, Jr., Day Agnes, virgin, martyr Day of Prayer for the Legal Vincent, deacon, martyr; Francis de Sales, bishop, Conversion of Paul, Apostle Marianne , virgin Is 49:3, 5-6; Ps 40:2, 4, 7-10; Fabian, pope, martyr; 1 Sm 16:1-13; Ps 89:20-22, Protection of Unborn doctor of the church, patron Acts 22:3-16 (or Acts saint of journalists 1 Cor 1:1-3; Jn 1:29-34 Sebastian, martyr 27-28; Mk 2:23-28 Children 1 Sm 18:6-9, 19:1-7; Ps 9:1-22); Ps 117:1-2; Mk † Father Bernard 1 Sm 15:16-23; Ps 50:8-9, † Father Thomas Kearney, 1 Sm 17:32-33, 37, 40-51; 56:2-3, 9-13; Mk 3:7-12 1 Sm 24:3-21; Ps 57:2-4, 6, 16:15-18 Ps 144:1b-2, 9-10; Mk Harezlak, 1983; † Father 16-17, 21, 23; Mk 2:18-22 1932; † Father Raymond M. † Father Anthony Renne, 11; Mk 3:13-19 Father Christopher Kuhn 3:1-6 Brian Olsen, 2013; † Msgr. † Father L. Dudley Day, Hettermann, 1990; 1920; † Msgr. Thomas P. Father Stephen Glab, CR † Father L. Thomas Risley, Philip E. O’Neil, 2018 1983 Bermingham, 1973 † Father Leo J. Bartel, 2005 2000 Father Matthew DeBlock Priests of the Freeport Those discerning Msgr. Glenn Nelson Priests and religious who Father Timothy Mulcahey Deanery vocations work for life 26 27 28 29 30 31 3rd Ordinary Time Angela Merici, virgin Thomas Aquinas, priest, 2 Sm 7:4-17; Ps 89:4-5, 2 Sm 7:18-19, 24-29; John Bosco, priest Fly the Flag Is 8:23-9:3; Ps 27:1, 4, 13- 2 Sm 5:1-7, 10; Ps 89:20- doctor of the Church 27-30; Mk 4:1-20 Ps 132:1-5, 11-14; Mk 2 Sm 11:1-4a, 5-10a, 13- Jan. 1 — New Year’s Day 2 Sm 6:12b-15, 17-19; Ps Jan. 16 — Martin Luther 14; 1 Cor 1:10-13, 17; Mt 22, 25-26; Mk 3:22-30 † Father Daniel J. 4:21-25 17; Ps 51: 3-7, 10-11; Mk King, Jr. Day 4:12-23 † Father John L. Daleiden, 24:7-10; Mk 3:31-35 Considine, 1920 Father Andres Salinas 4:26-34 Priests of the McHenry 1976; † Father Theodore † Father Bernard L. Father Joseph Kulak † Msgr. Raymond J. Wahl, Deanery B. McCormick, (Jan. 28) He ernan, 1928; † Father 2015 1953 Patrick J. Quinn, 1949 Women religious Priests of the Rockford Priests of the Sterling Deanery Deanery

Join the Holy Father in praying for this special intention this month: Joseph Freinademetz 1852-1908 — Jan. 29 Promotion of World Peace: We pray that Christians, followers of other religions, and all An Alpine Austrian, Joseph was very bright and received exceptional schooling. He was people of goodwill may promote peace and justice ordained a diocesan priest in 1875, but found parish work too easy. He joined the Divine Word in the world. missionaries and was sent with another priest to China. By 1888, Joseph was teaching 1,000 catechumens in 390 villages. The Verbites built a seminary and began training Chinese priests. Joseph fl ed once during the Boxer Rebellion, then stayed in China, gaining converts and serving — http://popesprayerusa.net/ as provincial and administrator. His health was broken in an outbreak of typhus.

Catholic Schools Week The Observer ... Jan. 26-Feb. 1 Proud to assist in the mission of education in the Rockford Diocese.