ISSN: 0029-7739 $ 1.00 per copy THE OBSERVER Official Newspaper of the Catholic Diocese of Rockford

Volume 78 | No. 7 http://observer.rockforddiocese.org FRIDAY JANUARY 25, 2013

Celebrate Inside Catholic Schools Week Life Celebrated, Defended at Annual Parish Banquet pg. 3 Jan. 27-Feb. 2 Say a prayer A for Catholic school students and teachers.

It’s Time to Help Visit your Catholic Children in Peru Again schools when The Junior Observer, pg. 6 B they schedule open Quick News houses. Diocesan Video Nominate your Contest Cancelled favorite Catholic The youth video contest C announced in the Young school teacher for Observer section of the, Jan. 18 paper, has been cancelled. the Rockford Diocese Outstanding Catholic Coming Soon in The Observer Educator Award (Photo provided) Laura Kane, fi fth-grade homeroom and fi fth- through eighth-grade math teacher at St. Mary School in by Jan. 27 at www. Elgin, poses with her students, who wanted to point out one of their favorite teachers. The fi rst Rockford Diocese Outstanding Catholic School Educator Award will be presented during Catholic Schools Week, rockforddiocese.org/ Jan. 27-Feb. 2. Voting is open through Jan. 27 at www.rockforddiocese.org/education. education. See Catholic Schools Week coverage, pgs. 7-16

(CNS fi le photo/Bob Roller) March for Life Today Citing Conscience Laws, Illinois The annual March for Life marking the anniversary of the Roe v. Wade decision legalizing abortion is today Judge Halts Contraceptive Mandate in Washington D.C. Look for special coverage Feb. 1 in BY DENNIS SADOWSKI precedence over the state man- who are Catholic. Right of Conscience Act. The Observer. Catholic News Service date that the health insurance In a parallel case, the Yeps “This is an area of law where they provide to their employees and Triune won a preliminary there is not a lot of precedent,” This Issue WASHINGTON—The Cath- must cover abortion, steriliza- injunction Jan. 4 in U.S. Dis- said Breen, who argued the Bishop Malloy ...... 2 olic owners of an Illinois health tions and contraceptives. trict Court for the Northern case before Sheen. “We are services consulting company Headliners ...... 3 “The unique thing about this District of Illinois against the glad to be able to get a fi rst vic- have won a temporary restrain- Nation/World ...... 4-5 order is that it’s the fi rst recog- Department of Health and Hu- tory and be able to hopefully ing order against the state’s nition by an Illinois court that man Services’ contraceptive The Junior Observer ...... 6 blaze a path for other employ- contraceptive mandate. the state’s contraception man- mandate. Catholic Schools Week ...... 7-16 Judge Terence M. Sheen of date may be pre-empted by Breen told Catholic News ers in the state of Illinois to be Around the Diocese ...... 17-19 the DuPage County Circuit our religious freedom and con- Service Jan. 17 that the Yeps able to offer conscience-com- Faith Forum...... 20 Court granted the order Jan. 15 science laws,” said attorney Pe- were pleased with Sheen’s de- pliant health care.” Viewpoints ...... 21 to Christopher and Mary Anne ter Breen, executive director of cision, which cited conscience There was no immediate For the Record ...... 22 Yep and their company, Triune the Thomas More Society, the protections outlined in the word whether the Illinois at- Media/Arts ...... 22 Health Group Inc., saying Il- Chicago-based public interest state’s Religious Freedom Res- torney general would appeal Diocesan ...... 23 linois’ conscience laws take law fi rm representing the Yeps, toration Act and Health Care Sheen’s ruling. 2 FRIDAY JANUARY 25, 2013 | The Observer

Concern for Nature of Marriage,

The Observer (ISSN 0029- Children is International 7739), is published weekly, except five times a year by the Diocese of Rockford, by Bishop David J. Malloy 555 Colman Center Dr., P.O. Box 7044, Rockford, IL 61125 n recent weeks, Illinois has have lost sight of marriage as a poses the natural right of a child the freedom or rights of the Phone: 815/399-4300; Fax become a sort of “ground reality that flows from our na- to have a mother and a father. adults both for marriage and for 815/399-6225. zero” with regard to the ture as man and woman able to here are several lessons adoption. But there is a further Periodical postage paid at question of marriage, and come together and give life to a question here about the rights of Rockford, Ill., and additional for us coming from mail offices. Itherefore also of the family. child, another human being. these stories. the children who might be ad- As you probably know, I But in France, something First, proponents try opted by such couples. POSTMASTER: send address recently asked that a letter that else has been happening. This Tto tell us that same-sex mar- In several recent talks, Pope changes to The Observer, 555 I prepared on this topic be month large demonstrations, in- Benedict XVI has reminded us Colman Center Dr., P.O. Box riage is inevitable because it is 7044, Rockford, IL 61125 read at all the Masses within cluding hundreds of thousands part of the evolution of society that children are not objects to the Diocese of Rockford. (If of participants, have taken place toward a more enlightened un- be possessed. Rather, they are a For ADVERTISING information: you have not seen or read that in Paris to express opposition to derstanding of the world. Oppo- gift that is entrusted to families Contact The Observer at the letter, you can find it at http:// the proposal being made to the sition, we are told, is futile. as well as to society. By its very address above or call 815/399- www.rockforddiocese.org/pdfs/ French Parliament to legalize But hundreds of thousands nature, marriage is the physical 4300; fax 815/399-6225, InterfaithStatement.pdf.) same-sex marriage and adop- source for children as well as E-mail: rbergman@ of people marching in France rockforddiocese.org. It outlined the very serious tions by same-sex couples. certainly challenge that under- the proper environment for rais- concerns, both for us as a soci- Significantly, according to standing. For that reason, we ing them in the complementary Send NEWS information to The ety and for us as Catholics and press reports, those marches should not feel alone nor should presence of the father and the Observer at the address or fax followers of Jesus, which flow have been populated not just by we feel embarrassed to speak mother. number above, or send e-mail from a proposal to allow same- religious believers but French In the First Letter of St. John to Observer@rockforddiocese. the truth. org. sex marriage in our state. I urge citizens of various political per- Second, a principal argument we are reminded “… the one you once more to be in contact suasions and religious beliefs, being put forward by the march- who loves God should love his Subscription rate $28.00 per with your representatives to and those with no religious be- ers is not one that is Catholic or brother also … .” (1 Jn. 4:21). year (48 issues); Canadian express your opposition to this lief at all. even religious. Rather, it relates We are commanded to love all and Pan American $29; other proposal. While such mass demonstra- of our brothers and sisters. And foreign: surface mail $37, air to human nature and specifical- mail $97; single copies $1. With that background, it has tions are often difficult to char- ly the rights of children to have we do. been of great interest to learn acterize as to their specific mo- and know their mother and fa- But that includes love for chil- The Observer Online digital that this same issue is confront- tivation, one particular theme ther. This is a fundamental hu- dren and respect for their right subscriptions are also available. ing countries in Europe. Gener- seems to emerge. It is that man right. to know and be raised by their ally, the news has been less than same-sex marriage is not only a Often the discussion of same- mother and father as a part of Staff — encouraging as so many people danger to the family; it also op- marriage in our society. Publisher: sex marriage has centered on Most Reverend David J. Malloy

After Angelus, St. Peter’s Square, The Pope on ... Take every opportunity to Associate Publisher: Msgr. Eric Barr Jan. 13 encounter Him and to see His face in the acts of kind- Today we are celebrating the Editor: Penny Wiegert ness you receive during your World Day of Migrants and pilgrimage of migration. News Editor: Amanda Hudson Refugees. In the message for this year I compared migration Rejoice, for the Lord is near, Features Editor: Sharon to a “pilgrimage of faith and and with Him you will be able Boehlefeld hope.” to overcome obstacles and Circulation/Proofreading: difficulties, treasuring the Whoever leaves his land does (CNS photo/Alessia Pierdomenico, Reuters) Susan Sabrowski, so hoping for a better future, experiences of openness and Keith Ludolph, Ronald Bergman but also does so because he Immigrants and Refugees acceptance that many people offer you. Accounting: Jill Bonk trusts in God who guides the such, possesses fundamental, their uprooting and separation footsteps of man, like Abra- inalienable rights that must be more tolerable and even gives For “life is like a voyage on the Client Services: ham. And in this way, migrants sea of history, often dark and Ronald Bergman respected by everyone and in them the hope of eventually are bearers of faith and hope stormy, a voyage in which we every circumstance” (ibid.). returning to their country of Production and Web throughout the world. origin. watch for the stars that indi- Administrator: Gary Haughton For this reason, I have chosen To each one of them I send my cate the route. The true stars to dedicate the 2013 World Faith and hope are often Father greeting, with a special prayer of our life are the people who Contributing Writers: Day of Migrants and Refugees among the possessions which have lived good lives. They are John Slampak, Msgr. Aaron and blessing. Brodeski, Keith Ludolph, Lynne to the theme “Migrations: pil- emigrants carry with them, lights of hope. knowing that with them, “we Conner, George Weigel, Father grimage of faith and hope.” Ronald Rolheiser, Tony Carton, From 2013 Message for World Day can face our present: the Certainly, Jesus Christ is the of Migrants and Refugees Faith and hope are insepa- true light, the sun that has Dr. Owen Phelps, Thomas present, even if it is arduous, Craughwell, Pat Szpekowski rable in the hearts of many risen above all the shadows Migration is in fact “a strik- can be lived and accepted if it migrants, who deeply desire a of history. But to reach him ing phenomenon because of leads towards a goal, if we can Publication Dates: better life and not infrequently we also need lights close by Weekly except that in 2013 the sheer numbers of people be sure of this goal, and if this try to leave behind the “hope- — people who shine with his there will be no issues on involved, the social, economic, goal is great enough to justify March 29, May 31, Aug. 30, lessness” of an unpromising light and so guide us along our political, cultural and religious the effort of the journey” (Spe Nov. 29 and Dec. 27. future. problems it raises, and the Salvi, 1). way” (Spe Salvi, 49). During their journey many of News Deadlines: dramatic challenges it poses Dear brothers and sisters who I entrust each of you to the Usually, 10 days before publica- to nations and the interna- them are sustained by the yourselves are migrants, may Blessed Virgin Mary, our “guid- tion date. tional community” (Caritas in deep trust that God never this World Day help you renew ing star,” who with her mater- Veritate, 62), for “every migrant abandons His children. This your trust and hope in the Lord nal presence is close to us at Ad Deadlines: is a human person who, as certainty makes the pain of who is always at our side! every moment of our life. Usually, 10 days before publica- tion date.

Official information on the poli- Bishop Malloy’s ROCKFORD — Jan. 27, 5 Deanery 7th and 8th Grade of St. Peter cies, activities, and positions p.m., DCCW Women of the Students, Marian Central of the Diocese of Rockford is — Feb. 3, 2 Public Schedule Year Banquet, Cliffbreaker’s Catholic High School ROCKFORD released only in the pages of p.m., Mass for Scout Sunday, The Observer, or in state- AURORA — Jan. 25, Restaurant ROCKFORD — Feb. 1, 9:30 ments from the Diocesan Cathedral of St. Peter 9:30 a.m., All-School Mass, ROCKFORD — Jan. 28, a.m., The Observer Catholic Office of Communications and Marmion Academy Publications. 10:05 a.m., Catholic Forum, Press Month Breakfast, ROCKFORD — Feb. 4, ROCKFORD — Jan. 26, WROK 1440AM Diocesan Administration 10:05 a.m., Catholic Forum, The Observer uses recycled Center paper and is recyclable. 5:30 p.m., OSF St. Anthony AURORA — Jan. 30, 10 WROK 1440AM Medical Center’s Pink Ball, a.m., Catholic Schools Week CRYSTAL LAKE — Feb. DALLAS, Texas — Feb. Our Mission is the mission Giovanni’s Restaurant Mass, Rosary High School 2, 4 p.m., Vigil Mass, St. of the Church itself — to Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish 4-7, Bishops’ Workshop, ROCKFORD — Jan. 27, WOODSTOCK — Jan. 31, spread the Gospel through National Catholic Bioethics contemporary means of 7:30 a.m., Sunday Mass, 10 a.m., Catholic Schools ROCKFORD — Feb. 3, 7:30 communications. Cathedral of St. Peter Week Mass for McHenry a.m., Sunday Mass, Cathedral Center The Observer | FRIDAY JANUARY 25, 2013 3

Headliners Father Brian Olsen Dies While in Florida ROCKFORD—Father Brian a priest by Bishop Thomas G. Polo where he served from He is predeceased by his Olsen died Saturday, Jan. 19, Doran at Cathedral of St. Peter July 1, 2009, to Aug. 26, 2010. mother, Sally, who died in No- 2013, in Miami, Florida. He in Rockford on June 26, 2004. His next offi cial appointment vember 2012. was 52. His fi rst assignment was to brought him back to St. Bridg- Visitation was held, 4-8 p.m., Father Olsen was born in serve as Parochial Vicar at St. et Parish as Parochial Vicar. Jan. 24, at St. Bridget Church, Rockford to David and Sally Bridget Parish in Loves Park. He served there until being 600 Clifford Ave., Loves Park (Strickland) Olsen, July 5, 1960. He served there from 2004 granted administrative leave with rosary at 8 p.m. Visitation He was a graduate of Har- to 2009 and was also a part- May 25, 2012. will also be held Friday, Jan. lem High School, Loves Park; time teacher at Boylan Central Father Olsen is survived by 25, at St. Bridget Parish, 9:45- Bradley University, Peoria; Catholic High School in Rock- his father, David; two broth- 10:45 a.m. The funeral Mass and, Cardinal Stritch Universi- ford. In 2007 he was appointed ers, Douglas and Dennis; one will be celebrated at 11 a.m. ty. He completed his theology Parochial Administrator of St. niece, one nephew, two-great Friday, Jan. 25, at St. Bridget studies and Master of Divin- Bridget Parish. nieces; close friends Jim and Parish with Bishop David J. ity at Sacred Heart Seminary, Father Olsen later was ap- Tammy Bertrand and chil- Malloy as celebrant. Burial Hales Corners, Wis. pointed Parochial Adminis- dren; and, friend and sister-in- will be at Calvary Cemetery, Father Olsen was ordained trator of St. Mary Parish in law Debra Olsen. Winnebago. Father Brian Olsen Life Celebrated, Defended at Annual Parish Banquet BY AMANDA HUDSON respond to his email, Bishop News editor Malloy said he went from be- ing frantic to being depressed, ROCKFORD—Holy Family believing she had gone ahead Parish’s 18th annual Respect with the abortion. But two Life Banquet hosted a record months later the woman did number, more than 250 people, email him, saying she’d been on Jan. 18. busy getting ready for her son, Bishop David J. Malloy not- who was due soon. The baby ed the camaraderie of the social was born “basically healthy,” hour and the “certain joy” that Bishop Malloy said, adding can come to those who con- that he then connected her to front the culture of death and Catholic Charities to promote a work on behalf of life. legal process of expediting her Dr. Errol Baptist (right) receives His keynote talk concluded a the St. Michael Defender of Life program that honored the Holy husband’s migration to Ameri- ca from the Philippines. Award from Holy Family pastor, Family pro-life essay winner, Father Edward J. Seisser. Rachel Mar- “A few weeks later, I did the baptism for Ruben,” the bishop garet Martin. (Observer photos by Amanda Hudson) are there.” He noted that those Her essay re- The Joe and Beth VonArx family received the Natural Family Heritage said, noting that the happy mo- gathered at the banquet were all fl ected on her Award at the Holy Family Parish annual pro-life banquet, Jan. 18. ment had resulted from a rare, “friends, parents, grandparents brother, “Mi- last-minute request for him to and neighbors,” and that simi- chael,” who whose pro-life work over the an appointment for an abortion celebrate Mass at the basilica lar opportunities could come to had died of a years has included growing the following day. He had her that day three months before. them also. miscarriage young, pro-life medical profes- name her little boy and asked “We know there is a lot of “Roe v. Wade is there,” he but who, she sionals through his founding her to email him, promising darkness out there,” Bishop said, “but so is our love … con- believes, is and leadership of the Rockford prayers and support. Malloy said, “(but) sometimes version of hearts can make that praying for Guild of the Catholic Medical When she did not email or light comes just because we (court decision) a dead letter.” Rachel them from Association. He received the Margaret heaven. St. Michael Defender of Life Martin H o n o r e d Award. also was Ma- In his talk, Bishop Malloy rissa Schnei- noted that everyone present der for her knew the damage that has come Introducing… 12 years of to the world by the 40-year-old prayers at the court decisions that made abor- now-closed tion legal in the United States. R o c k f o r d He spoke of the “toughest a b o r t u a r y three years of my life” when he and her par- worked on behalf of the Holy ticipation See at the U.N., saying that in other life whatever the topic, the “forces events includ- of dark” would try to use it to For Retirement ing Rockford promote abortion and contra- Teens for ception. “You really felt,” he Our newest bi-annual newsletter for Marissa Life. said, that work on behalf of life Schneider Schneider “was worth every effort.” those nearing or living in retirement. also has raised $13,000 over The bishop shared that the six years for the Rockford Area importance of those efforts Scan with your Pregnancy Care Center. Dr. Al- “came home to me” a few years lan Carlson of the Howard Cen- later when an abortion-minded smart phone to ter for Religious, Family and woman asked to see a priest af- sign up for your Society presented Schneider ter he had celebrated Mass at e-issue now! with the White Rose Award. the national basilica in Wash- Dr. Carlson also presented ington D.C. Or visit www.savantcapital.com and click the Natural Family Heritage When she asked him, “Fa- “Retirement Resource Center” under the “Resources” tab. Award to Holy Family parish- ther, I’d like to know if it’d be ioners Joe and Beth VonArx a sin to abort my child,” the then-monsignor put aside his Savant Capital Management is a Registered Investment Advisor. Savant's marketing material should and their family. The youngest not be construed by any existing or prospective client as a guarantee that they will experience a certain of the nine VonArx children, plans and suggested they go level of results if they engage the advisor's services. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Sammy, age 5, played drums for a walk. She’d been told the for the crowd, accompanied by baby had a rare medical prob- one of his big brothers on key- lem and she didn’t want him to 815 227 0300 savantcapital.com board. suffer, she said. Also honored was Dr. Errol In their 20-minute walk, the Rockford, IL | Chicago, IL | Freeport, IL | Geneva, IL | Hoffman Estates, IL | Madison, WI | Peoria, IL Baptist, an area pediatrician future bishop was told she had 4 FRIDAY JANUARY 25, 2013 | T he Observer

Nation / World News In Brief Bishop in Mali says people in hiding, Moot ACLU Challenge of afraid to enter churches OXFORD, England (CNS)—A Catholic bishop in war-torn Mali whose diocese lies in the path of Islamic insurgents said “people USCCB Grant Dismissed are hiding in their homes, unable to venture out.” Bishop Augustin Traore of Segou, Mali, told WASHINGTON (CNS)—A “It’s good that the decision fer or not offer to foreign-born Catholic News Service by federal appeals court dismissed is vacated,” attorney Henry C. victims of human trafficking telephone: “Although our an American Civil Liberties Dinger, representing the USC- under a federal contract. churches are still intact, Union of Massachusetts legal CB, told Catholic News Service Mercy Sister Mary Ann people are becoming afraid challenge to a contract between Jan. 16. The decision leaves Walsh, USCCB director of me- to enter them. Our entire the Department of Health and unanswered the legal question dia relations, said the dismissal Catholic culture will clearly Human Services and the U.S. of religious accommodation in represents a legal victory for be in danger if this conflict Conference of Catholic Bish- the delivery of services under a the bishops’ conference, but (CNS photo/Helen Blakesley, CRS) drags on. Until the havoc ops, saying the case had be- federal contract. only in a limited way because Twins Hawa and Adama Keita, 15, are caused by the French come moot because the con- “It doesn’t resolve anything the core issue of whether the among more than 200,000 Malians bombing ends and the hos- tract had expired. on the merits (of the ACLU’s conscience clause in the con- who have migrated to the south and tilities cease, no one will be In a unanimous ruling Jan. claim),” Dinger said. “The im- tract with HHS violated the Es- to neighboring countries since a March in a position to know what 15, the three-judge panel of the portant thing to emphasize is tablishment Clause. 2012 military coup. has happened,” he said 1st Circuit Court of Appeals that Judge Stearns’ decision “The court also didn’t reach after noting that the country’s churches could face destruction if also vacated an earlier ruling is now vacated and no longer the more peripheral, but still conflict continues. Bishop Traore spoke to Catholic News Service by District Court Judge Rich- has any effect.” Stearns ruled important, question of whether Jan. 16 as French combat troops prepared to engage government ard G. Stearns upholding the March 23 that HHS officials ACLU alone has standing to rebels at Diabaly, 90 miles north of Segou. Meanwhile, Helen ACLU’s claim that the contract improperly delegated to the challenge the contract solely Blakesley, regional information officer for Catholic Relief Services, violated the Establishment bishops’ conference the deci- as an interested association of said more than 200,000 Malians had migrated to the south since a Clause of the Constitution. sion on which services to of- taxpayers,” she added. March 2012 military coup, while a similar number had fled to Niger, Burkina Faso, Morocco and Algeria.

U.S. monsignor joins canons of Farm, Ranch St. Peter’s Basilica, a ministry of prayer Animals Blessed VATICAN CITY (CNS)—Although his curriculum vitae includes parish assignments, seminary positions and years devoted to pro- Horses and their riders moting religious education throughout the United attend an event for the States, Msgr. Francis D. Kelly said, “All my life I’ve blessing of animals outside been a closet monk.” As he prepared to take his St. Peter’s Square in Rome post as a canon of St. Peter’s Basilica at the Vati- Jan. 17. Italian Cardinal can, a position focused on the service of prayer, Angelo Comastri blessed Msgr. Kelly said, “God knows what he’s doing.” animals brought by The chief task of the two dozen canons, he said, members of an association is prayer and worship. For the past eight years, of farmers and ranchers the 75-year-old monsignor from the Diocese of during an event called the (CNS photo/Paul Haring) “farm under heaven.” Msgr. Kelly Worcester, Mass., has served as superior of the Casa Santa Maria, the residence for U.S. priests (CNS photo/Paul Haring) studying at the pontifical universities in Rome. He was named a canon of the basilica by Pope Benedict XVI and was to be formally installed Jan. 20. Msgr. Kelly is the first U.S.-born canon in almost Nigerian Bishops Caution Government 50 years. About Religious Prophesies of Tragedy Vatican to enlist Christian all-stars to help scandal-ridden sports By peter ajayi dada personal and corporate respon- A country that fails to adhere Catholic News Service sibility,” the bishops said. to its constitution and the rule VATICAN CITY (CNS)—In an effort to flex its moral muscle in the The statement was signed by of law in its decision-making professional sports arena, the Vatican has invited top-tier Christian LAGOS, Nigeria (CNS)— Archbishop Felix Alaba Job risks being overrun by false athletes Tim Tebow and Jeremy Lin to help bring ethical values Five Catholic bishops cau- of Ibadan and Bishop Felix prophecies and visions based back to a scandal-ridden world of sports. The Pontifical Council tioned Nigerian government Ajakaye of Ekiti on behalf of on self-interest and greed, the for Culture is planning to host an international conference on re- leaders about a series of state- bishops said. instilling values in sports this spring, inviting representatives from the bishops of Ilorin, Ondo and ments from Pentecostal and They called on Nigerians and top world governing bodies like FIFA (the International Federation Osogbo. indigenous religious leaders government leaders to develop of Association Football), the International Cycling Union and the Saying they have experi- portending tragedy. new attitudes and revitalized Italian National Olympic Committee. Msgr. Melchor Sanchez de enced a series of visions or The bishops of the Ibadan hope to overcome the numer- Toca Alameda, head of the council’s “Culture and Sport” section, province said in a statement re- prophesies, the Pentecostal and told Catholic News Service Jan. 16 that pro sports “have become indigenous religious leaders ous challenges facing the coun- leased Jan. 14 that the warnings, try in the new year. a commodity that is subordinate to the free market and, therefore, or visions as described by the have published and distributed to profit.” Instead of sports being an activity that builds important warnings that certain govern- “The seemingly intractable religious leaders, may be a tac- challenges of insecurity and values, respects human dignity and helps shape the whole human tic to control the actions of po- ment leaders would die or be violence through bombings person, “it has reduced people to merchandise,” he said. U.S. cy- litical and government officials. impeached in the new year. and mindless killings, kidnap- clist Lance Armstrong’s admission to doping was just the tip of the “We feel a sense of duty to The warnings have sent jitters ping, armed robbery and eth- iceberg, he said, since high-stakes commercial interests pressure call for caution in this regard through government offices, nic clashes still persist amid almost every professional cyclist into the illegal practice. The world and warn that, while prophetic especially because several of cycling and soccer is “a world that is rotten,” he said. “We want gifts, private revelations and provincial leaders were being repeated assurance by govern- to work with the big sports bodies to give new value to sports” and visions may have a religious treated for various ailments ment and security agencies to the upcoming conference — titled “We Believe in Sports” — will be basis, care must be taken not outside of Nigeria in mid-Jan- be on top of the situation and one way to get that initiative started, the monsignor said. to see them as substitutes for uary. have largely remained unreal- ized,” the statement said. The bishops also warned

Weekdaysabout about pervasive corruption in Top o’ the Morning with Bishop Malloy the government that limits ef- 6:58 a.m. Live on WREX-TV, Channel 13 in Rockford. forts to address the challenges. on WREX-TV Listen anytime to archived broadcasts at http://observer.rockforddiocese.org. Click on Bishop Malloy. At the same time, the bish- Programs brought to you by Savant Capital Management | Hinshaw & Culbertson, Attorneys at Law | Provena Cor Mariae and St. Anne Center ops commended those in gov- Diocesan Office of Communications and Publications | The Observer | Office of Stewardship, Diocese of Rockford ernment and in other settings who have attempted to improve Mondays about Catholic Forum with Bishop Malloy conditions in the country. They 10:05 a.m. Live on WROK Radio, 1440 AM in Rockford and on the Web. For live streaming audio on the Web, go to called for continued prayer for http://observer.rockforddiocese.org, click on Bishop Malloy and then click on Catholic Forum. guidance to improve the over- on WROK-AM all lives of Nigerians. The Observer | FRIDAY JANUARY 25, 2013 5

Nation / World Vatican Mummy Gets Health Check News In Brief VATICAN CITY (CNS)— moved and displayed in a dig- Court says Britain failed to protect Experts have just concluded nified and respectful manner, stewardess’ right to wear cross a two-year study on the seven Amenta said. MANCHESTER, England (CNS)—The European Court of Human adult mummies in the Vatican As far as research goes, Rights has ruled that the British government violated the rights of Museums’ collections. mummies are a treasure trove an airline flight attendant by failing to protect her right to conscience The mummies underwent of valuable information be- and religion. It found that Nadia Eweida, 60, a full battery of X-rays, CT cause everything about them a Coptic Christian, suffered discrimination scans, endoscopic explorations, provides numerous clues to the when she was told by British Airways, her histological exams and a whole lives, customs and religious be- employer, to stop wearing a cross on her spectrum of genetic testing, liefs of ancient peoples, Amen- uniform. Her case was one of four claims leading one researcher to joke: ta said. of religious discrimination against English “These mummies have gotten Discovering the different Christians heard by the court, but the only more medical attention now forms of cancers or other ill- one to succeed. A Jan. 15 ruling dismissed than when they were alive.” nesses in the ancient individu- (CNS photo/Luke MacGregor, Reuters) the cases brought by Gary McFarlane, a re- Nadia Eweida, 60, a The scientific advancements als provides valuable insight lationships counselor fired after he said he (CNS photo/courtesy of Vatican Museums) Coptic Christian, dis- in genetics, imaging technol- into today’s diseases and how had a moral objection to offering therapy to Vatican sculptor and castmaker plays her cross in the ogy and nano research have they evolved genetically over same-sex couples; Lillian Ladele, a regis- Andrea Felice reconstructs the Temple Church in Lon- brought new and unexpected time, she said. trar who objected to presiding over civil part- spine of the mummy Ny-Maat-Re don, Jan. 15. discoveries with minimally and The tiniest bit of genetic nership ceremonies for same-sex couples; at the Vatican Museums non-invasive techniques — a material can provide aston- and Shirley Chaplin, 57, a nurse who said she was forced from her far cry from the “unwrapping” to the EURAC-Institute for ishing details, Zink said, like job for wearing a cross in breach of uniform policy. McFarlane and autopsies of the 19th century. Mummies and the Iceman — when they discovered that Chaplin said they would appeal the judgment at the court’s Grand For one thing, the mummy in the northern Italian city of the 5,000-year-old Iceman in Chamber. The court decided that in the case of Eweida there had Ny-Maat-Re, “who we always Bolzano — which specializes EURAC’s care was lactose in- been a violation of Articles 9 and 14 of the European Convention on referred to as ‘she,’ is in fact in gathering and analyzing tolerant and had Lyme disease. Human Rights, which protect freedom of thought, conscience and actually a man,” said Alessia ancient genetic and other data In June, together with the religion and prohibit unjust discrimination. It awarded her $2,670 in Amenta, Egyptologist and cu- from mummies. Albert Zink, Louvre in Paris and the Dutch compensation and a further $40,000 in costs. rator of the Vatican Museums’ scientific director of the insti- National Museum of Antiqui- Department for the Antiquities Canada cut projects to Catholic agency tute, presented the results to the of Egypt and the Near East. ties in Leiden, the Vatican will Vatican and the public Jan. 17. host the “First Vatican Coffin despite staff recommendations The hieroglyphics on the TORONTO (CNS)—Government staffers described the bishops’ He said histological exams on Conference” to study the con- mummy’s three-dimensional Development and Peace agency as “Canada’s most experienced one mummy found what looks struction and painting tech- painted coverings made of plas- development organization supported exclusively by Canadians” — to be a small benign tumor on niques of sarcophagi during ter and linen bandages had iden- then slashed its funding. Internal emails, briefing notes and memo- the scalp; if further tests con- tified it as “the daughter of Sema- Egypt’s so-called Third Inter- randa obtained by The Catholic Register, a national weekly, reveal Tawi.” But 3-D CT scan results firmed the result, then “it might mediate Period. that a government decision to cut funding to the Canadian Catholic from early January showed the be the first case of this kind of It will be the first time inter- Organization for Development and Peace in 2012 went against the never-unwrapped mummy is tumor for a mummy,” he said. nationally renowned scholars advice of almost everyone consulted, including its own bureaucra- clearly male, Amenta said. The studies were a major from a variety of disciplines cy. Last spring’s massive cut in funding is not recommended any- “This discovery is very recent milestone in the Vatican’s will compare their research on where in 235 pages of documents The Catholic Register obtained and opens a whole host of ques- Mummy Project, begun in the period’s coffins, which re- from the Canadian International Development Agency through an tions we hope we will be able to 2007 to analyze and better pre- flect the clerical culture of the Access to Information request. Instead, in an email outlining De- answer,” she said during a Vati- serve its mummy collection. increasingly powerful Theban velopment and Peace’s five-year proposal for $49.2 million in fund- can news conference Jan. 17. Mummies are unlike any high priests, Amenta said. ing for 20 countries, CIDA program officer Doug Henderson told The Vatican Museums used other museum treasure — be it No in-depth, comprehensive the agency’s media relations department, “CIDA has analyzed and its own diagnostic laborato- a priceless pottery shard or pre- studies have been done on the agreed with the results ... and the amounts allocated in the budget ry for the first phase of tests, historic arrowhead — because period’s wood painting tech- ... and to the entire five-year project. Extensive due diligence has which included the X-rays and a mummy is a human being, nique, she said, and no ancient been carried out up front.” In a briefing prepared for Canadian In- endoscopies. Zink and Amenta agreed. Egyptian texts have been found ternational Development Agency, President Margaret Biggs, staff- But Amenta then turned A mummy must be studied, explaining the process. ers said, “This is a strong proposal from an experienced partner.” Archbishop The Aug. 31, 2011, briefing — delivered the same day Develop- French Bishops: ‘Listen to ment and Peace’s previous five-year funding agreement ran out Prays at Colorado — praised the agency for its outstanding record since 1968. the Streets’ on Marriage Theater Reopening More passengers, bigger cruise ships PARIS (CNS)—A French expressing a great frustration pose challenge to apostleship AURORA, Colo. (CNS)— PORT OF MIAMI, Fla. (CNS)—Florida is home to some of the bishops’ spokesman urged pol- today — those holding politi- The path to peace requires re- nation’s busiest seaports, including two in south Florida that col- iticians to “listen to the streets” cal responsibility can’t expect to jecting violence and giving to lectively play a major regional role in container and cruise ship after hundreds of thousands of govern without listening to what God the desire for vengeance, terminal activity. As cruise lines and ocean-going ships get bigger people rallied against same-sex it’s saying,” he said. hatred, bitterness and anger, and bigger, Catholic maritime ministry and chaplaincy programs marriage. The Jan. 13 demonstration Archbishop Samuel J. Aquila are under pressure to keep pace with those growing passenger “We’re facing questions about was organized by a coalition of of Denver said during a cer- and staff needs — sometimes society — what the family is, 30 family groups. Organizers emony marking the reopening sharing resources in an inter- what marriage is, and whether said 800,000 people participat- of a movie theater, the site of a faith or ecumenical framework. there’s a difference between ed, although French police put chaotic mass shooting in July. It means local clergy and par- men and women,” Msgr. Ber- the number at 340,000. The archbishop was one of ish volunteers are uniquely po- nard Podvin, spokesman for Msgr. Podvin said the Catho- several clergy and public of- sitioned to take part in a long the French bishops’ conference, lic Church believed homosexu- ficials to speak during what and global tradition of Catholic told France’s Metro daily. “I’m als “must be respected,” but organizers called a “special outreach to mariners formally not one who says the street must was against the same-sex bill, evening of remembrance and (CNS photo/Tom Tracy) referred to as the Apostleship decide, which was introduced in No- reopening” Jan. 17 at the Cen- Father Roberto Cid speaks to a Dis- of the Sea. That takes the form because vember by the government of tury Aurora 16 theater. ney cruise line crewman. of seaside chapels and Catho- this is President Francois Hollande Archbishop Aquila closed the lic welcome centers as well as on-ship clergy and Catholic chap- a l w a y s under the slogan, “Marriage ceremony with a reflection and laincy programs which bring clergy and the sacraments — and danger- for All.” a prayer that called for healing other facets of church life — to travelers at sea. Nationally, there ous, and In addition to legalizing and for the community to unify are 50 dioceses with maritime ports and a total of 62 programs or political same-sex marriage, it would to prevent violence and live in chapels, according to Scalabrinian Sister Myrna Tordillo, national respon- allow adoption by same-sex peace. “In suffering, and in the director of the Apostleship of the Sea. Sister Tordillo was in Miami sibil- couples. love of God, dawn breaks be- recently to visit the newly renovated and reopened Stella Maris ity rests “In our eyes, there’s nothing fore us,” he said. “We are here Catholic Center and chapel at the Port of Miami. “The majority of w i t h contradictory between fighting tonight with one another to re- seafarers are Catholic,” Sister Tordillo told The Florida Catholic, (CNS photo/Paul Haring) t h o s e firmly against homophobia and member, to celebrate the lives newspaper of the Miami Archdiocese, noting that many are from Gregaire Audinet and elected. saying no to a radical transfor- of those we’ve lost and to sup- the Philippines. Father Roberto Cid, pastor of St. Patrick Parish in Ines, 1, attend Jan. 13 But the mation of the family model,” port those who were wounded Miami Beach, is the newly appointed director of the Stella Maris protest. street is Msgr. Podvin said. and continue to heal.” Catholic Center at the Port of Miami. 6 FRIDAY JANUARY 25, 2013 | The Observer The Junior Observer Vol. 27, No. 5 Published by The Observer, Offi cial Catholic Newspaper of the Diocese of Rockford [email protected] A Good News Story Jesus Preaches, Escapes Angry Mob Catholic News Service “Today this Scripture passage off it, but the Spirit protected Jesus, is fulfi lled in your hearing.” and he walked through the crowd of esus was in the synagogue Q&A people without being noticed, and on the Sabbath day. Some- What did Jesus say he left in safety. one handed him a scroll, J after he read from the After leaving the synagogue, which contained a passage from scroll? Jesus went to Capernaum, which the prophet Isaiah. Jesus unrolled is in Galilee. Who did the unclean the scroll and read out loud. “The Once again he amazed the peo- Spirit of the Lord is upon me, be- spirit say Jesus was? ple there with his words of wisdom. cause He has anointed me to bring Read more about it in Luke 4. A man with an unclean spirit (CNS) glad tidings to the poor. He has sent challenged Jesus by saying: “What Jesus said, and how politely and widow in Israel, but one who was in me to proclaim liberty to captives have you to do with us, Jesus of and recovery of sight to the blind, respectfully he spoke to them. They Sidon. And also of Elisha, who did Nazareth? Have you come to de- to let the oppressed go free and to also asked each other, “Isn’t this the not cleanse the lepers of Israel, but stroy us? I know who you are — the proclaim a year acceptable to the son of Joseph?” only Naaman, who lived in Syria. Holy One of God.” Lord.” Jesus, knowing the thoughts When the people heard these Jesus said to the spirit in the Jesus rolled the scroll back up and questions of the people, said: words, they no longer praised the man: “Be quiet! Come out of him!” and handed it to the attendant. Then “Surely you will quote me this gracious words of Jesus. Instead The spirit threw the man on the he looked at the people in the syna- proverb, ‘Physician, cure yourself.’ they felt insulted and became very ground, but came out of the man gogue and said to them, “Today ... Amen, I say to you, no prophet angry. They rose up not as a group, without harming him. this Scripture passage is fulfi lled is accepted in his own place.” Then but as a mob that wanted to hurt The story quickly spread of in your hearing.” Jesus reminded them of the prophet Jesus. They tried to take him to the this miracle about the power and Everyone was amazed by what Elijah who was not sent to help a top of a nearby hill and throw him authority of Jesus. Get Ready for Lent. Ash Wednesday is Feb. 13. It‛s Time to Help Children in Peru Again Get your crayons, mark- They asked the children Heart. This program links Since the program be- help thousands of school ers and glitter. It’s time to of the Rockford Diocese to children of the Rockford gan, Heart to Heart has sent children in Peru. decorate this year’s hearts help. Diocese to those in the Dio- more than 18,000 hearts Help keep our Heart to and help children in Peru. So was born Heart to cese of Chulucanas in Peru. and more than $50,000 to Heart link beating. Thirteen years ago, Rita Prunuske, former president Heart to Heart ... De Corazón al Corazón of the Dioce- san Council of Rockford — 2013 — Chulucanas Catholic Wom-

en, and Junior (Photo provided) Observer editor A boy in Penny Wiegert Chuluca- nas, Peru, heard that some shows his children in Peru hearts and could not go to school supplies school because from the they had no paper Rockford and pencils. Diocese. Here‛s How You Can Help Decorate these double hearts and send them, with a $2 donation for each pair, to The Junior Observer, Heart to Heart, P.O. Box 7044, Rockford, IL 61125. Do not mount your hearts on other paper because it adds to mailing costs. The deadline for hearts and donations is Good Friday, March 29, 2013. If you need more hearts, have an adult print them off at http:// observer.rockforddiocese.org/ junior-observer. The Observer | FRIDAY JANUARY 25, 2013 7

Catholic Schools Week Catholic Schools Week Features ‘Big Picture’ Theme By Amanda Hudson and Benchmarks for Effective says Lorraine A. Ozar, Ph.D., di- News editor Catholic Elementary and Sec- rector of the Center for Catholic ondary Schools. That national School Effectiveness at Loyola Welcome to the 2013 Catholic initiative is the result of broad University, Chicago. Schools Week special section of collaboration among Catholic Benchmarks to help indi- The Observer! educators across the nation, vidual schools measure their Here you’ll find a listing of including scholars, superinten- successes are provided for four all the Catholic schools in the dents, principals, bishops, pas- broad areas: Mission and Cath- Diocese of Rockford along tors, religious congregations, olic Identity; Governance and with photos shared by most of school supporters and the Na- Leadership; Academic Excel- the schools and a note from tional Catholic Educational As- lence; and Operational Vitality. most about why their particular sociation. We decided to speak with the school is special. The document gives Catholics principals from three diocesan This year’s Catholic Schools “a common framework of uni- grade schools about some of Week theme — “Catholic versal characteristics of Catholic the things they are doing within Schools Raise the Standards” — identity and agreed-upon criteria these categories. See their an- refers to the National Standards for Catholic school excellence,” swers below. ST. ANNE SCHOOL, DIXON Sister Marcianne says. A School Sister of Notre Dame, Sis- St. Anne School also practices social ter Marcianne Bzdon, principal, shares justice, taking students to see the local some of the ways St. Anne School PADS homeless shelter and gathering teaches Catholic identity. donations for Heifer International, food Sister Marcianne notes that “we’re drives and a toy drive with an optional here to include the religious aspect and twist: allowing students to give away bring it out in the lessons we teach.” She a gently-used toy they love from their mentions history studies that look at an past. event like the Civil War and also note “That’s a heart-wrenching thing for what the Church was like at that time, some of them,” Sister Marcianne says what was working and not working in of the children’s lesson in sacrificial its attempts to bring forth the Good giving. “To give something you have re- News. ally enjoyed and that meant something One reason why St. Charles Borromeo School, Hampshire, is special is its family-oriented at- The handy location of the church right to you … to give that up so somebody mosphere, including ever-present mentoring and stewardship. in the school building has led the school else can enjoy (it) … that is a really hard to encourage adoration time before the thing.” Professional development days for practice leader- tabernacle, with students volunteering a teachers include the Illinois Reading ship also. Some The Observer break time to go and pray for the needs ST. JOSEPH SCHOOL, ELGIN Conference. There teachers can meet eighth-grade stu- congratulates of the school, the community and the Principal Rafael Villagomez looks at with authors and hear speakers and dents are “conflict the Catholic world. Student-led prayers are offered academic efforts at his school where 99 “learn how to better their craft and look managers,” Prin- schools of the every morning over the speaker system percent of students are Hispanic. for better ways” to reach students, he cipal Forbes says. Diocese of and many teachers provide additional That student population is often lim- says. “My eighth-grad- Rockford for prayer in the classroom, including time ited in the amount of the English lan- “It’s a different set of kids,” Principal ers take that very all their good for deeper, silent prayer. guage they hear on a regular basis, he Villagomez says. “We have to find dif- seriously. They work. We extend Sister Marcianne sends a weekly let- says, adding that St. Joseph School has ferent ways to teach them how to read play with the kids our thanks to ter to parents and says she always writes been growing its common core stan- and understand English.” an opening paragraph that is focused dards efforts, especially in reading and at recess and help all the schools who sent on faith — providing activity ideas to comprehension, to meet students’ edu- HOLY ANGELS SCHOOL, AURORA them work out any photographs. help parents bring awareness of Jesus cational needs. This is Tonya Forbes’ 13th year at playground con- Have a blessed into their home. For example, she sent Reading intervention groups, a read- Holy Angels School, her third as prin- flicts.” a “blessing of the wise men” in a recent ing core program expanded this year cipal. A club dedi- Catholic Schools letter. to all grades, and upgraded textbooks “Leadership is a big deal at my cated to service Week! Someone offered free Catholic prayer have been part of the effort, Principal school,” she says, giving examples of projects, Angelic books recently, so every school family Villagomez says. parent, teacher and student leadership Attitude Awards received a book of prayers and activi- Computers have been donated to the development. and sports, says Principal Forbes, are ties. “We’ve been talking about the Year school, he says, so additional reading Her Principal’s Advisory Committee “all ways for those students to see lead- of Faith and encourage families to move programs now are available via that started from scratch last year, she says. ership in a very positive way.” deeper into the faith life of the Church,” technology. “We took guidelines from the diocese and wrote bylaws from that that fit for us. It’s made up of parents, a grandpar- ent, one deacon and the president of Catholic Elementary sports boosters. They all have different perspectives. To me, they just revital- Schools ized the place.” The PAC has surveyed school parents ALGONQUIN and solicited ideas for improvement, St. Margaret Mary School many of which have been implemented, Principal: Mrs. Amy Johnson Principal Forbes says. People may not Grades: Pre-K to 8; 425 students want to come and talk to the principal about something they noticed, but they AURORA are comfortable going to another par- Annunciation BVM School ent, she adds. Last year the 10-person Principal: Mrs. Karen Wollwert group met twice a month; this year’s Grades: Pre-K to 8; 259 students monthly meeting has sufficed now that so much has already been addressed. Holy Angels School The school’s mission statement is next Principal: Mrs. Tonya Forbes on the list. New for teachers is a School Im- Grades: Pre-K to 8; 477 students provement Team of six teachers plus their principal. That group looks at the Our Lady of Good Counsel School school “from the inside out,” Principal Principal: Mrs. Karen Behrns Grades: Pre-K to 8; 201 students One reason why St. Rita School, Rockford, is special is students come to school every day Forbes says, and it “constantly is look- ready to grow in faith and knowledge as they live out the school mission: Christ in Our- ing for ways to make things better. They St. Joseph School selves, Christ in Learning, Christ in Others. First- and eighth-grade Book Buddies work on bring ideas. The school would be noth- Principal: Mrs. Nancy Coughlin math flashcards. ing without the teachers.” Students are given opportunities to Grades: Pre-K to 8; 178 students 8 FRIDAY JANUARY 25, 2013 | The Observer

Catholic Schools Week

St. Peter School CRYSTAL LAKE Principal: Sister Ann Brummel, OP St. Thomas the Apostle School Grades: K to 8; 135 students Principal: Mrs. Deanne Roy Grades: Pre-K to 8; 415 students St. Rita of Cascia School Principal: Mrs. Elizabeth Faxon DEKALB Grades: Pre-K to 8; 245 students St. Mary School Principal: Mrs. Patricia Weis St. Therese of Jesus School Grades: Pre-K to 8; 192 students Principal: Mrs. Annise Hawkinson Grades: Pre-K to 8; 97 students DIXON St. Anne School BATAV I A Principal: Sister Marcianne Bzdon, Holy Cross School SSND Principal: Mrs. Tricia Weis Grades: Pre-K to 8; 118 students Grades: Pre-K to 8; 379 students St. Mary School BELVIDER E Principal: Mrs. Jean Spohn St. James School Grades: Pre-K to 8; 222 students One reason why Newman Central Catholic High School, Sterling, is special is, according to Principal: Mr. Gregory Wilhelm Micah Trancoso (left), Newman “provides a top notch education while providing oppor- Grades: Pre-K to 8; 145 students DUNDEE tunities for its student to help out in the community. “ Kayci Howell (second from left) St. Catherine of Siena School says, “At Newman, each student shares a common goal, to learn and live a life based on CARY Principal: Mrs. Renee Link family, faith and education.” They and fellow juniors, Allison Shipman and Elliot Jensen, SS. Peter & Paul School Grades: Pre-K to 8; 225 students pose with a “baby shower” collection for Gianna’s House to help mothers and babies in Principal: Sister Katrina Lamkin, OP need. Grades: K to 8; 533 students

One reason why Holy Angels School, Au- rora, is special is its “wonderful, caring and dedicated” teachers nurture faith and chal- lenge students to pursue academic excel- lence. One reason why Boylan Central Catholic High School, Rockford, is special is students are honored by the Titans’ Outstanding Principles (TOP) award program. The newest hon- orees were nominated by faculty and staff to recognize their daily, positive difference at Boylan. One reason why SS. Peter and Paul School, Cary, is special is, through values, faith, and service, the school focuses on the needs of others near and far, including a project to sponsor Edy Jeovany, a student from Honduras whose photo is displayed at the school.

EAST DUBUQUE HAMPSHIRE St. Mary School St. Charles Borromeo School Principal: Mrs. Wendi Kletecka Principal: Mr. Kelly S. Kissamis Grades: Pre-K to 8; 73 students Grades: Pre-K to 8; 195 students

ELGIN HARVARD One reason why St. Andrew School, Rock St. Joseph School St. Joseph School Falls, is special is classes take turns in plan- One reason why St. Peter School, South Be- Principal: Mr. Rafael Villagomez Principal: Mr. Michael Shukis ning the liturgy and serving as lectors, altar loit, is special is the boys and girls have Grades: Pre-K to 8; 230 students Grades: Pre-K to 8; 99 students servers, gift bearers, song leaders and can- learned the importance of caring for oth- JOHNSBURG tors at weekly school Masses. ers and helping in time of need. St. Laurence School Principal: Mrs. Tracy Wahl St. John the Baptist School Grades: Pre-K to 8; 204 students Principal: Mrs. Maureen Jackson Grades: Pre-K to 8; 95 students St. Mary School LOVES PARK Principal: Ms. Barbara Colandrea St. Bridget School Grades: K to 8; 182 students Principal: Mrs. Mary Toldo Grades: K to 8; 406 students St. Thomas More School Principal: Ms. Margaret Fabrizius MCHENRY Grades: Pre-K to 8; 265 students Montini Middle School Principal: Mrs. Sheila Murphy FREEPORT Grades: 4 to 8; 200 students Aquin Elementary School Principal: Mr. Thomas A. Hoffman Montini Primary Center Grades: Pre-K to 6; 154 students Principal: Mrs. Marilyn Knapp Grades: Pre-K to 3; 165 students GEN EVA St. Peter School ROCK FALLS One reason why Aurora Central Catholic High School, Aurora, is special is students partici- Principal: Mrs. Roseann Feldmann St. Andrew School pate in several blood drives sponsored at school each year, donating over 40 pints of Grades: Pre-K to 8; 461 students Principal: Mr. William Lemmer blood in its most recent drive. Grades: Pre-K to 8; 155 students The Observer | FRIDAY JANUARY 25, 2013 9

The Catholic Education Office Catholic Schools Week thanks our Elementary and High School Principals / Superintendents for helping to “Raise the Standards” of all of the Catholic schools in the Rockford Diocese.

City/School Principal / Superintendent Algonquin St. Margaret Mary Amy Johnson Aurora Annunciation Karen Wollwert Holy Angels Tonya Forbes Our Lady of Good Counsel Karen Behrns St. Joseph Nancy Coughlin One reason why Holy Family School, Rockford, is special is junior high students earn Chris- St. Peter Sr. Ann Brummel tian Ministry hours by modeling the Works of Mercy and learning the importance of St. Rita of Cascia Elizabeth Faxon helping others and being good stewards. Pictured are eighth-grade students Ben Cace- St. Therese of Jesus Annise Hawkinson res and Darin Brockmann listening to second-graders read their poems. Aurora Central Catholic High School Rev. F. William Etheredge Marmion Academy Dr. James Quaid, Headmaster Rosary Sr. Patricia Burke, O.P. Batavia Holy Cross Tricia Weis Belvidere St. James Gregory Wilhelm Cary SS. Peter and Paul Sr. Katrina Lamkin, O.P. Crystal Lake St. Thomas the Apostle Deanne Roy DeKalb St. Mary Patricia Weis Dixon St. Anne Sr. Marcianne Bzdon, S.S.N.D. St. Mary Elementary & Jr. High Jean Spohn W. Dundee St. Catherine of Siena Renee Link E. Dubuque St. Mary Wendi Kletecka Elgin St. Joseph School Rafael Villagomez St. Laurence Tracy Wahl One reason why Rosary High School, Au- St. Mary Barbara Colandrea rora, is special is Holiday Hopes, an annual One reason why St. Thomas the Apostle St. Thomas More Margaret Fabrizius Christmas adopt-a-family service projectin School, Crystal Lake, is special is 18 majestic St. Edward Catholic High School Rev. David Finn / Richard Thomas which each homeroom adopts a family in saint statues that now grace classrooms, Freeport need and provides and delivers specially- each of which was dedicated to a particular Aquin Catholic Elementary Thomas Hoffman chosen, lovingly-wrapped presents for saint. Classroom saint dedications included Aquin Central Catholic High School Kathleen Runte / Dave Hawkinson each family member, plus a food basket blessings from priests and parent, teacher Geneva and grocery store gift certificate. and student involvement. St. Peter Roseann Feldmann Hampshire St. Charles Borromeo Kelly Kissamis Harvard ROCKFORD St. Joseph Michael Shukis Cathedral of St. Peter School St. Edward School Johnsburg Principal: Mr. James Burns Principal: Mrs. Corine Gendron St. John the Baptist Maureen Jackson Grades: Pre-K to 8; 205 students Grades: Pre-K to 8; 173 students Loves Park St. Bridget Mary Toldo Holy Family School St. James School McHenry Principal: Mrs. Rebecca Schmitt Principal: Mr. John Fitzsimmons Montini Catholic Schools Sheila Murphy / Marilyn Knapp Grades: Pre-K to 8; 462 students Grades: Pre-K to 8; 195 students Rock Falls St. Andrew Bill Lemmer St. Bernadette School St. Rita School Rockford Principal: Mrs. Elizabeth Heitkamp Principal: Mr. Patrick Flanagan Cathedral of St. Peter James Burns Grades: Pre-K to 8; 223 students Grades: Pre-K to 8; 283 students Holy Family Rebecca Schmitt St. Bernadette Elizabeth Heitkamp St. Edward Corine Gendron Cathedral of St. Peter School St. James John Fitzsimmons 1231 N. Court St., Rockford St. Rita Patrick Flanagan Boylan Central Catholic High School Jerry Kerrigan 815-963-3620 Catholic Values. Success. Community. South Beloit St. Peter Edward O’Brien Excellence today for tomorrow ... St. Charles l Strong sense of community between church, family, and school St. Patrick Joseph Battisto l High level of academic expectations Sterling l Emphasis on ensuring strong Catholic values St. Mary Patricia Reynolds Newman Central Catholic High School Andreas Edmondson l Highly involved priests Sycamore l Strong basic curriculum St. Mary Ross Bubolz l Opportunity for a variety of extra-curricular activities Woodstock St. Mary Frank Shields Serves children in grades Pre-K through 8 with tuition aid available Marian Central Catholic High School Thomas Landers Attend our Open House on Sunday, January 27, 10:00 am-11:00am, to learn more, or call the school office for a tour. Department of Educational Services Visit us on our website: www.cathedralofstpeter.org/school Diocese of Rockford 10 FRIDAY JANUARY 25, 2013 | The Observer

How Aurora is Serving Catholic Schools Week the Community: Sharing the Good Work in Catholic Education Aurora-area Catholic Schools Celebrate “Catholic Schools Week” January 27 - February 2, 2013

St. Joseph School students supporting the needs Aurora Central Catholic Key Club participate in the community. in Holiday Toy Drive collection. (Photo provided) One reason why St. James School, Rockford, is special is its regular food collections for the Holy Angels School St. Peter School Rock River and Cornucopia food pantries. The school community also works at the Cor- 720 Kensington Pl. 915 Sard Ave. nucopia Pantry and practices stewardship through fundraisers to assist other service (630) 897-3613 (630) 892-1283 agencies. Holy Cross School - Batavia Annunciation BVM School 2300 Main St. 1840 Church Rd. (630) 593-5290 (630) 851-4300 St. Therese of Jesus School St. Mary School - DeKalb The National Catholic Schools Week celebration became an 255 N. Farnsworth 210 Gurler Rd. annual event in 1974. Catholic Schools Week and the National (630) 898-0620 (815) 756-7905 St. Peter School - Geneva Aurora Central Catholic Marketing Campaign are joint projects of the National 1881 Kaneville Rd. High School (630) 232-0476 1255 N. Edgelawn Dr. Catholic Educational Association, the world’s largest private (630) 907-0095 Our Lady of Good Counsel School professional education association, and the United States 601 Talma St. St. Joseph School (630) 851-4400 St. Peter School - Geneva students 706 High St. Conference of Catholic Bishops, the national public policy collect non-parishable items during (630) 844-3781 St. Mary School - Sycamore a recent food drive. organization of U.S. bishops. 222 Waterman St. St. Rita of Cascia School (815) 895-5215 770 W. Old Indian Tr. (630) 892-0200 Holy Cross Catholic School Crusaders Raising the Standards In Catholic Education

Crusader Noun (kroo-seydr) 1. Someone who strives to advance a cause they believe is right 2. A participant in the medieval Holy Land campaigns 3. An advocate, champion for progress

Join us at our Crusaders in Faith OPEN HOUSE u Each school day begins with Mass Sunday, Jan. 27 u Weekly Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament 12:15 - 1:30 p.m. u Monthly Reconciliation u Classroom “Households” focus on prayer and living the Gospel message u Respect Life Club and service opportunities Crusaders in Academics u Advanced Math teacher and Reading intervention specialist support success for every student, u ITBS scores above 94th percentile in every grade level 3-8 u Diocesan Study earned an “A+”, setting a best practice model for other schools u Area high schools commend our graduates for their preparedness and achievement u Classroom technology includes interactive Mimio Boards throughout by Fall, 2013 For additional information: Please contact Tricia Weis, Principal [email protected] Crusaders in Respect www.holycross-batavia.org u Our devoted educators strive to develop God-given talents and gifts of every student Holy Cross Catholic School u Dedicated parish priests bring daily spiritual inspiration and support 2300 Main Street l Batavia, IL 60510 630.593.5290 u Focus in discipline, care is Christ-centered www.holycross-batavia.org The Observer | FRIDAY JANUARY 25, 2013 11

Catholic Schools Week Come Explore the Difference!! St. Peter Catholic School invites you to our Open House

Sunday, January 27th, 2013 12pm – 2pm Multi-Purpose Room & Gymnasium

Light Lunch* 12:15 F Guest Speakers 12:15 - 12:45 School Tours 1:00 - 2:00

One reason why Holy Cross School, Batavia, is special is the school community puts faith *If your family is planning to join us for lunch, please RSVP to the school office by into action with a spirit of hospitality, team work and service as they dedicate each day Thursday, January 24, at 630-232-0476. to Jesus Christ and his awesome plan for their lives! We, at St. Peter School, believe our mission is to educate the whole child spiritually and morally, intellectually, culturally, socially, emotionally, ST. CHARLES Principal: Mrs. Patricia Reynolds St. Patrick School Grades: Pre-K to 8; 190 students and physically through a planned curriculum which is sequential and Principal: Mr. Joseph Battisto based on the needs and varying learning styles of the students. Grades: K to 8; 546 students SYCAMORE We believe in encouraging academic excellence, respect for oneself St. Patrick Preschool St. Mary School and others, and responsibility for one’s actions in a Christian community. Grades: Pre-K; 92 students Principal: Mr. Ross Bubolz Grades: Pre-K to 8; 243 students SOUTH BELOIT St. Peter School WOODSTOCK Principal: Mr. Edward O’Brien St. Mary School Grades: Pre-K to 8; 68 students Principal: Mr. Frank Shields Grades: Pre-K to 8; 295 students STERLING St. Mary School We are Academic! We are Catholic! We are Rockets! A rigorous curriculum of We continually give our Extracurricular offerings give classes prepares our students opportunities to students the chance to students for a lifetime further their relationship develop physically and of learning. with God. culturally while building a strong moral character. 1881 Kaneville Road: Geneva, IL 60134 630-232-0476 : www.stpeterrockets.org Celebrating 50 Years of Dominican Education One reason why St. Bridget School, Loves Park, is special is the parish food pantry and Angel Garden bless students with frequent opportunities to serve the less fortunate and help grow the Kingdom of God. 19 2 6502 201 The annual CSW observance begins Jan. 27 and continues to Feb. 2. Schools typically celebrate National Catholic Schools Week with Masses, open houses and activities for students, families, parishioners and the community at large. Individual dioceses and local Catholic elementary and secondary schools develop and promote their own CSW activities each year.

A Catholic, College-Prep High School for Young Women Sponsored by the Dominican Sisters of Springfield, Illinois

A Values-Based Faith Community ROSARY 100% College Attendance Rate 32 College Credits Available HIGH SCHOOL 30+ Leadership & Service Programs One reason why St. Anne School in Dixon, is special is the caring and supportive staff that 901 N. Edgelawn Drive, Aurora, IL 60506 Scholarships & Financial Aid (630) 896-0831 • www.rosaryhs.com works cooperatively for the good of the students in their care. One group of young stu- 9 Competitive Sports Teams dents gathers for a prayer in a classroom. 12 FRIDAY JANUARY 25, 2013 | The Observer

Catholic Schools Week

One reason why Cathedral of St. Peter School, Rockford, is special is it is more than just books! It’s also things like students taking part in ‘Hula-Hoop for Health Day.’

Some Notes About the National Standards from The National Catholic Educational Association In early 2012, the Center for Catholic The success of this mission depends on School Effectiveness, School of Educa- the key components of effective gover- tion, Loyola University Chicago, with nance, which provides direction or au- support from AdvancED, brought to- thority, and leadership, which ensures gether a national committee of Catholic effective operations. Catholic school educators to develop rubrics for each of governance and leadership can be seen the 70 benchmarks, which schools can as a ministry that promotes and pro- use to self-assess their current level of tects the responsibilities and rights of implementation in the four domains of the school community. Governance and Mission and Catholic Identity, Gover- leadership based on the principles and nance and Leadership, Academic Ex- practices of excellence are essential to cellence, and Operational Vitality. insuring the Catholic identity, academic excellence, and operational vitality of Mission and Catholic Identity the school. Although governance mod- The Church’s teaching mission in- els vary based on the sponsorship of the cludes inviting young people to a rela- school, those who serve on the govern- tionship with Jesus Christ or deepening ing body or leadership team in Catho- an existing relationship with Jesus, in- lic schools provide for an environment serting young people into the life of the for the teaching of doctrine and sacred Church, and assisting young people to Scripture, the building and experienc- see and understand the role of faith in ing of community, the serving of others, one’s daily life and in the larger society. and the opportunity for worship. “This unique Catholic identity makes our Catholic elementary and secondary Academic Excellence schools ‘schools for the human person’ The United States Conference of and allows them to fill a critical role in Catholic Bishops affirms the message the future life of our Church, our coun- of the Congregation on Catholic Edu- try and our world” (The Catholic School cation that intellectual development of on the Threshold of the Third Millenni- the person and growth as a Christian um, 1997). go forward hand in hand. Rooted in the mission of the Church, the Catholic Governance and Leadership school brings faith, culture and life to- Central to the mission of the Church is gether in harmony. In 2005, the bishops the work of Catholic school education. Continued on page 13

One reason why St. John the Baptist School, Johnsburg, is special is students both work hard and have fun, as illustrated by eighth-graders Rilet Elliott, Victor Pannke and Ashton Han- sen who are editing their papers with their editor visors on. The Observer | FRIDAY JANUARY 25, 2013 13

Catholic Schools Week A Catholic school is...

Some Notes About the National Standards from ... a place where students and The National Catholic Educational Association teachers spend faith-fi lled From page 12 Catholic schools must adopt and main- moments. noted that “young people of the third tain standards for operational vitality millennium must be a source of energy in these areas and define the norms and ... a place where relationships and leadership in our Church and our expectations for fundamental proce- between a teacher and his/ nation. And, therefore, we must provide dures to support and ensure viability young people with an academically rig- and sustainability. When a school does her students have a quality orous and doctrinally sound program of not maintain standards for operational of wonder and of the sacred. education” (Renewing Our Commitment vitality, the continuation of academic to Catholic Elementary and Second- excellence is in grave jeopardy. Over ... a place where everyone daily seeks to be a follower ary School is in the Third Millennium, time, even an academically rigorous 2005). school with strong Catholic identity will of Jesus who freely shares wisdom, compassion, The essential elements of “an aca- not survive without operational vitality. love and hope. demically rigorous and doctrinally Standards for operational vitality must sound program” mandate curricular focus on the “operation” of the school ... a place where “I cans” speak so boldly that “I can’ts” experiences — including co-curricular — how it works and how it is supported cannot be heard. and extra-curricular activities — which — in four key areas: finances, human are rigorous, relevant, research-based, resources/personnel, facilities, and in- ... a place where students and staff stand by each and infused with Catholic faith and tra- stitutional advancement. The leader/ ditions. leadership team must manage each area other and say, “We are a community of love and and be subject to the direct oversight of faith.” Operational Vitality the governing body in these matters. Catholic schools are temporal organi- ... a place where students and teachers applaud each zations committed to the Church and the other’s daily successes and daily thank God for mission of Catholic education including a commitment to a culture of excellence the gifts shared. and rigor. These schools exist in a mi- lieu of constant socio-economic chal- ... a place where we experience the joys, pains and lenges grounded in continuous need for zest of life as we celebrate God’s presence in our sustainable financial planning, human resource/personnel management and midst each day. professional formation, facilities main- tenance and enhancement, and the re- One reason why St. Mary School, Woodstock, A Catholic school does more than just quirement for institutional advancement is special is St. Mary families, including the and contemporary communication. Hill family. educate children. A Catholic school prepares students for life. A Catholic education helps each child reach for a brighter future, academically and spiritually.

We invite you to visit our Rockford area Catholic schools and experience faith in action for a brighter future.

Boylan High School Holy Family School 4000 St. Francis Drive 4407 Highcrest Road One reason why St. Rita of Cascia School, Au- Rockford, IL 61103 Rockford, IL 61107 rora, is special is for the feast of Our Lady of One reason why St. Therese of Jesus School, 815-877-0531 815-398-5331 Guadalupe, third-grade students reenact- Aurora, is special is special moments, in- ed the story of Juan Diego and Our Lady cluding a day when parish pastor, Father St. Bernadette School St. Bridget School of Guadalupe in celebration of the unity Michael Miller, MSC, came into a preschool 2300 Bell Avenue 604 Clifford Avenue through the diversity of the faith commu- classroom and played with building blocks Rockford, IL 61103 Loves Park, IL 61111 nity. with the students. 815-968-2288 815-633-8255

St. Edward School St. Peter Cathedral School 3020 Eleventh Street 1231 N. Court Street Rockford, IL 61109 Rockford, IL 61103 815-398-2631 815-963-3620

St. James School St. James School 409 N. First Street 320 Logan Avenue Rockford, IL 61107 Belvidere. IL 61008 815-962-8515 815-547-7633

St. Peter School St. Rita School 320 Elmwood Avenue 6284 Valley Knoll Drive South Beloit, IL 61080 Rockford, IL 61109 779-475-0560 815-398-3466 Catholic Schools Week, January 27 — February 2, 2013 14 FRIDAY JANUARY 25, 2013 | The Observer

Catholic Schools Week

Catholic High Schools

AURORA FREEPORT Aurora Central Catholic High School Aquin Central Catholic Junior/Senior Chief Administrative Offi cer: Father F. High School William Etheredge Chief Administrative Offi cer: Mrs. Students: 323 boys; 294 girls Kathleen Runte Students: 93 boys; 68 girls Marmion Academy Headmaster: Dr. James Quaid ROCKFORD Students: 523 boys Boylan Central Catholic High School Interim Principal: Jerry Kerrigan Rosary High School Students: 526 boys; 528 girls Principal: Sister Patricia Burke, OP Students: 385 girls STERLING Newman Central Catholic High School ELGIN Principal: Mr. Andreas Edmondson

St. Edward Central Catholic High Students: 131 boys; 96 girls Marian Central Catholic High School School (815) 338-4220 www.marian.com Chief Administrative Offi cer: Father WOODSTOCK David Finn Marian Central Catholic High School Algonquin McHenry Principal: Mr. Richard Thomas Chief Administrative Offi cer: Mr. St. Margaret Mary School Montini Catholic School Students: 216 boys; 193 girls Thomas Landers (847) 658-5313 (815) 385-1022 Students: 376 boys; 314 girls www.saintmargaretmary.org www.montini.k12.il.us

Cary Harvard Saints Peter & Paul School St. Joseph School (847) 639-3041 (815) 943-6933 www.peterpaulschoolcary.org www.stjoeharvard.org

Crystal Lake Woodstock St. Thomas the Apostle School St. Mary School (815) 459-0496 (815) 338-3598 www.stthomascl.org www.stmary- woodstock.org/school Johnsburg St. John the Baptist School , (815) 385-3959 www.stjohnschool.com One reason why St. James School, Belvidere, is special is, according to seventh-grader Ava Todora, “We treat each other like family. We are all very close to our faith and Jesus Christ. Most of all, we strive to do our best to be like Jesus and children of God. St. James is a lov- ing environment that you don’t fi nd much in other schools.”

St. Rita of Cascia Catholic School, Aurora

Growing in Faith Growing in Knowledge One reason why Annunciation BVM School, Growing in Character Aurora, is special is the many opportunities Growing in Service for the students in all grades to interact and help each other with projects. Pic- One reason why St. Joseph School, Harvard, tured is seventh-grader, Riley McCue, help- is special is the school community em- ing second-grader, Olivia Fulfs, open her braced joy and enthusiasm for the Advent thermos. season.

CELEBRATING OUR CATHOLIC SCHOOL THIS WEEK CELEBRATING OUR CATHOLIC FAITH EVERYDAY!

770 W. Old Indian Trail, Aurora 630-892-0200 www.saint-rita.org One reason why St. Peter School, Geneva, is special is students know that the gifts that they have been given must be shared with others. The Observer | FRIDAY JANUARY 25, 2013 15

Catholic Schools Week

One reason why St. Thomas More School, Elgin, is special is students share their love of learning throughout the building. Fifth-grade student Katie Ellsworth (right) reads her favorite story to kindergarteners Natalie Resendiz and Annalise Tiu. Celebrating Catholic Education in the Fox River Valley since 1926

Aurora Central Catholic High School 1255 N. Edgelawn Drive, Aurora, Illinois (630) 907-0095 • www.auroracentral.com www.facebook.com/AuroraCentralCatholic

Catholic Chariti es’ One reason why St. Mary School, Dixon, is special is students excel academically and learn to give of themselves in service to Professionals others throughout the school year. With Christ at the center of all we do ... all we do Are specifi cally is good. trained to help

One reason why St. Mary School, DeKalb, is special is the school provides ongoing in- tergenerational learning experiences with YOU! the men and women of the ‘greatest gen- eration’ who reside at Barb City Manor. The Catholic Chariti es salutes the work of our school’s Lancer Band plays at the residen- Catholic Schools and partners with them tial community four times a year. to provide on-site counseling. Catholic Chariti es’ professional counselors are highly- trained, experienced, dedicated and ready to serve the counseling needs of your loved ones.

How Can We Help You? Please Call Us!

Catholic Charities Diocese of Rockford Contact Michele Crosswhite 815-387-3410 catholicchariti es.rockforddiocese.org Catholic Chariti es is a non-profi t One reason why St. Margaret Mary School, Algonquin is special is the school gives students special service agency. Creati ng hope A grateful opportunities to learn through hands-on interactive lessons, including dressing like for members of all faiths. agency of saints for All Saints Day. 16 FRIDAY JANUARY 25, 2013 | The Observer

Catholic Schools Week

BELONG Believe

Become One reason why Marian Central Catholic High School, Woodstock, is special is its One reason why St. Peter School, Aurora, acclaimed mentor program pairs each is special is acts of faith included the student new to the school with an out- day when Justin was baptized at an all standing upperclassman to make sure School Mass. everyone feels welcome.

National Catholic Schools Week is the annual celebration of Catholic education in the United States. During the week, schools and parishes focus on the value Catholic education provides to young people and Catholic education’s contributions to our church, our communities and our nation. The week builds Striving to be Saints. Scholars. Champions. community awareness of and involvement in Catholic schools www.boylan.org throughout the country. During this week, many dioceses and schools encourage parents to take full advantage of the bene ts of local Catholic schools by enrolling their children in those Catholic Schools Week 2013 schools.

Discover the Marmion Advantage ...

 2012 ACT Average: 26.4  Finest of college prep educations  $16.0 million awarded in college  Safe, structured, and supportive scholarships environment One reason why St. Joseph School, Aurora, is special is a ‘Holy Families’ activity included ‘St.  100% college acceptance rate Kateri Tekakwitha’s family’ who carried a fi shing net up to the altar during a school Mass as a reminder of the particular theme: ‘Catch the Faith: Go fi sh!’

Rev. Godwin Asuquo and the Parishioners of St. Patrick Church (McHenry) extend their wish for a HAPPY CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK to the students, staff, and parents of MONTINI CATHOLIC SCHOOL! q Special thanks to the dedicated teachers A Catholic and Benedictine College Preparatory High School for boys. who guide and encourage their students to Grow in = FAITH, Y LOvE, and . LEArNINg For more information contact: Marmion Academy/Offi ce of Admissions ` COME AND GROW WITH US! ` 1000 Butterfi eld Road, Aurora, IL 60502 (630) 897-6936 or Email: [email protected] Montini Catholic School (Pre-Grade 8) Apply online at www.marmion.org/admissions www.montini.k12.il.us The Observer | FRIDAY JANUARY 25, 2013 17

Around the Diocese Aurora Deanery

(Photo provided) (Photo provided) About 100 children from St. Peter School and parish religious education program in Ge- Third grade students from St. Peter School in Geneva pose with the food they collected neva act out the Christmas story. The Holy Family, surrounded by wise men, shepherds, for their adopted family. St. Peter School collected both toys and food in support of four sheep, deer, crickets and stars gives everyone a chance to be part of the afternoon event. local adopted families this Christmas season. Some of the actors are pictured with parish pastor, Father Martins Emeh.

(Photos provided) Holy Cross School students in Batavia collected spare change for Waterleaf Women’s ABOVE LEFT: Alice Daneels of Mooseheart (back left), Father Timothy Draper, parochial Center and Moose-heart Maternity Home at Mooseheart Child City and School. Volun- vicar, and Cindy Bernstein, second-grade teacher, exchange a check with Mrs. Bernstein’s tary donations were deposited into empty baby bottles located in each classroom. When second-grade students. all the quarters, dimes, nickels, and pennies were counted, the total came to $2956.58. ABOVE RIGHT: David Bielat (center, left) and his seventh-grade class present a check Representatives from both women’s centers toured Holy Cross school to meet some of to Kelly Gorsky (right), executive director of Waterleaf Women’s Center as Father Draper the students and receive their checks. looks on. Rockford Deanery Freeport Deanery Champion Team St. Bridget School basket- ball team of Loves Park took first place in the St. Edward School, Rockford, tournament on Jan. 13.

(Photo provided)

On Pearl Harbor Day, Dec. 7, Sgt. Robert Paulson (right) spoke to middle school students at St. Peter School in South Beloit about his service in the U. S. Army, 1940-1945. He talked about his training, being in combat in Europe,

meeting General George S. (Photo provided) Patton, and how much he Aquin Catholic Schools of Freeport hosted its annual National Geo- missed his family while away graphic Bee on Jan. 9, This year’s winners are (front, from left) Anne at Christmas. He and his six Wubbena, second place, and Patrick Seas, first place. With them are brothers all served in WWII. Aquin Central Catholic Junior/Senior High School Assistant Principal Sr. Teresa Boland and St. Joseph Principal Tom Hoffman. BELOW: St. Peter students also held their annual Christ- mas program, Dec. 18. (Photos provided) Watch ‘Catholic Mass’ Sundays at 6:30 a.m. on WREX-TV, Channel 13 in Rockford or you can watch on the Web at http://observer.rockforddiocese.org.

Brought to you by The Diocesan Office of Communications and Publications 18 FRIDAY JANUARY 25, 2013 | The Observer

Around the Diocese

Bishop David J. Malloy (third from left) poses with diocesan What’s UP This Picture Could seminarians after the Installation Use a Cutline Title of the Acolytes ceremony at Wed Jan 30 Mundelein Seminary, Jan. 16. A To Fill It Out formal dinner followed with the Deadline for Feb. 8 What’s Up whole seminary community. (for Feb 11-17 events) Erving Caliente (second theology) recieved the ministry Thu Jan 31 of acolylte from Bishop Malloy. With the bishop are (from left) GENEVA Keith Wolfe (first theology), Women’s Bible study: 9:15-11 Joseph Van Havermaet (pre- a.m. (first of seven Thursday ses- theology, one), Caliente, Kyle sions); St. Peter Church, 1891 Manno (first theology), and Tim Kaneville Road. Based on “Explor- Glemkowski (first theology). ing the Spirituality of the Gospels” (Photo provided) by Patrick J. Hartin and the “Little Rock Catholic Study Bible.” Spon- sor: Fox Valley Women’s Bible Aurora Deanery Study. Childcare and Bible pre- school available. Info: Ann Reilly, 630/879-0489. Fri Feb 1 CRYSTAL LAKE Gift of Self seminar: 6:45-10 p.m.; St. Thomas the Apostle Church, 451 W. Terra Cotta Ave. (Photos provided) Introduction to Church teaching on Bishop Offers Family Mass sexuality and family planning for engaged couples. Cost: $45. Info: Bishop David J. Malloy (center) celebrates the 11:30 a.m. Mass at St. Diocesan Respect Life Office, Peter Church in Aurora, Jan. 13. Many parish families joined in this 815/399-4300, ext. 381. celebration. Students from the school and religious education pro- gram participated as song leaders, lectors, ushers, and gift bearers at this Mass. The students participate in each of these roles at the Sat Feb 2 parish’s family Mass on the second Sunday of each month. BATAVIA LEFT: Bishop Malloy accepts flowers from students after offering One-day retreat: 8:30 a.m.-2:45 Mass for the parishoners at St. Peter Parish, Aurora. p.m.; Holy Cross Church, 2300 Main St. Speaker: Dr. John Bergs- ma. Topics: 9:15 a.m. “Science Parish, Neighbors and Faith”: 10:45 a.m. “7 Verses Feed Families Every Catholics Should Know”; Donations from St. Peter Chuch 1:30 p.m. “Confession as Spiritual in Geneva parishioners and Warfare.” Lunch break at noon. the surrounding community Free; donations accepted. Info: enabled the area food www.holycross-batavia.org. pantry to provide everything Speaker series: 7 p.m.; Holy needed for Christmas dinner Cross Church, 2300 Main St. to about 300 families in Theme: Year of Faith. Speaker: Dr. the Fox Valley area. Staff John Bergsma, Associate Profes- (Photo provided) members (below) took turns sor of Theology at the Franciscan New cutline here providing hot chocolate for University of Steubenville (Ohio) guests who waited in line and convert to the Catholic faith. for their food packages. Free; donations accepted. Info: www.holycross-batavia.org. WONDER LAKE Taste of Italy: 4:15, 6, and 7:45 p.m. servings; Christ the King Par- ish, 5006 E. Wonder Lake Road. Spaghetti dinner; cash beverage bar. Sponsor: Knights of Colum- bus Council 8473. Reservations needed. Cost: $11 adults; $5.50 children 4-12; children 3 and younger. Info: Joe or Alice Zie- mann, 815/653-4509. (Photos provided)

McHenry Deanery Sun Feb 3 WONDER LAKE High school altar servers (from left) Pizza fundraiser: noon-9 p.m.; Andrew James, James Eggers, Ryan Dusty’s Pizza, 7613 Howe Road. Krohme, Sheila Sagear, Cecilia Pappas Sponsor: Wonder Lake Knights of and Gina Timberlake, with Msgr. Steve Columbus. 10% of dine-in or de- Knox, pastor, were recognized for livery orders will benefit Special their service to the parishioners of St. Olympics and Newmann Fund for Mary Church, Huntley, and for their priestly vocations. (Delivery area: mentoring of younger altar servers Wonder Lake, McHenry, Wood- in the parish. More than 50 altar stock, Johnsburg and parts of servers were treated to breakfast, Spring Grove west of Winn Road.) Dec. 28, by the parish’s Knights of Info: 815/653-2400. Columbus Council 11666 at the Village Inn Restaurant, Huntley. For more events, visit the calendar (Photo provided) page at www.rockforddiocese.org. The Observer | FRIDAY JANUARY 25, 2013 19

Around the Diocese Sterling Deanery Going on Now Jan. 26 AURORA Entrance exam: 8 a.m., Rosary High School, 901 N. Edgelawn Dr. For eighth-grade girls interested in attending Rosary. Register in advance. Cost: $30. Info: http:// rosaryhs.com/entrance_exam; 630/896-0831, ext. 12. Jan. 27 BATAVIA Open house: 12:15-1:30 p.m.; Holy Cross School, 2300 Main St. Info: Principal Tricia Weis, 630/593-5290. Save the Date Feb. 7 AURORA Spanish talk: 7 p.m.; St. Therese of Jesus Parish, 271 N. Farnsworth Ave. Aurora Deanery Year of Faith series. Speaker: Father Michael Miller, MSC. Topic: Stewardship and Faith. Free; donations accepted. Info: 630/859-3922, [email protected]. Feb. 8 SPRING GROVE Praise and music: 7:30 p.m.; St. Peter Church, 2118 Main St. Followed by Fellowship and Thanksgiving (FAT) Friday. Info: 815/675-2288. (Photo provided) Feb. 10 Girls in Uganda model dresses made for them by ladies of St. Patrick Church in Maytown and friends in the community. ROCKFORD Pasta dinner: 11:15 a.m.-3 p.m.; St. James Parish Hall, 428 N. Second St. Proceeds to help confi rmation Dresses Arrive in Africa, 2013 Lent Project to Begin Soon students travel to Rome. Cost: $7 adults; $5 seniors and MAYTOWN—Women of St. Pat- in Kampala, Uganda, the nation’s parish hall. This year’s project offi cial- children under 12. Info: Lee Van Scoy, 815/826-0234, rick Church in Maytown and their capital. ly begins in February, but the women [email protected]. friends in the community made 520 The project began in Lent 2011, already have made 117 dresses. Feb. 15 dresses for girls in Uganda during when the women made 107 dresses Anyone interested in helping may ROCKFORD their 2012 Lent project. The women and 18 pairs of pants. The clothing get information or a pattern for the Parent training: noon-2 p.m.; UIC Specialized Care for also made 92 pairs of pants for boys. was sent to Africa with a missionary dresses by calling Marilyn Weeks, Children, 4302 N. Main St. Topic: “Improving the Social Every girl in the village visited in team from Princeton. 815/638-2202; Mary Ann Cardot, Skills of Children with Disabilities.” Register by Feb. 2012 received a dress and there were The group of women sews at their 815/849-5911 or Joann Burke, 815/ 8. Free. Info: 866/436-7842, ext. 107; www.fmptic.org/ enough left to give some to girls own homes and, occasionally, at the 849-5517. events/trainings. Feb. 22-23 Rockford Deanery ROCKFORD Married couples’ retreat: Bishop Lane Retreat Center, 7708 E. McGregor Road. Limit six couples. Cost: $149. Rockford Deanery Info: 815/965-5011; [email protected]. Feb. 23 Lectures Continue STERLING ROCKFORD—Father David Peck talked Trivia night: 6:30 p.m.; Newman Central Catholic High about “Refl ections of a JPII Priest” at St. Rita School, 1101 W. 23rd St. Proceeds for Scholastic Bowl Parish, Rockford, on Jan. 10. Team tournament trips. Teams of eight answer trivia questions. Cost: $10 per person. Info: Mark Frankfother, He shared 815/626-5873, [email protected]; newmancchs. some personal org. stories of his encounters Share Parish Lent Activities with Blessed Parish, school and organization publicists may send John Paul II as upcoming Lent event information to include in both The a 19-year-old Observer and the online calendar at www.rockforddiocese. org. We are especially looking for stations of the cross, when the pope Lent suppers (fi sh, soup or other), and parish retreats. visited Chi- Use the forms at http://observer.rockforddiocese.org/ cago, at World contact-us. Youth Day in St. Louis, and Elsewhere during visits to Rome as Bish- Jan. 31 op Thomas G. ROCK ISLAND Doran’s secre- Youth art contest: For artists 13-18. Subject: sacred tary, where he images of Jesus or Mary. Photos of images should be also met then- mailed to Art of Faith, 2502 29th Ave., Rock Island, IL Cardinal Joseph (Photo provided) 61201, or emailed to [email protected] by Jan.31. Info: Ratzinger. Father David Peck speaks at St. Jill Rodts, 309/787-5742. “For me, it Rita Parish, Rockford, on Jan. 10. Feb. 2 meant every- LISLE thing (in how Pope John Paul II) treated me,” Kid’s Nite Out: 6-9 p.m.; Benedictine University Rice he said, noting how the pope had “a gift for fo- Center, 5700 College Road. Proceeds for BU women’s cusing on an individual.” The pope’s example of varsity softball team. Activities for children 4-12. Parents courage and faithfulness was “one of the major must register children. Cost: $15 per child. Info: Kate factors of my discernment,” Father Peck said, Heidkamp, 630/829-6149. adding that Blessed John Paul II led the Church Feb. 16 to “become a resounding ‘yes’ to everything he- DUBUQUE, IOWA roic in life. He really revitalized the Church.” 10th Martha and Mary conference: 7 a.m. registration-5 Father Peck’s talk was part of a series of Year of p.m. Mass; Grand River Center, 500 Bell St. Presentations Faith talks in the Rockford Deanery. Other Year for women and teen girls. Registration by Feb. 5 of Faith series, one organized by Bishop David J. encouraged. Cost: $48 adults; $26 full-time students. Info: Malloy that is being hosted in several cities, one http://www.springtimeofhope.org; 563/580-9373. in the Aurora Deanery and several at parishes, also will be ongoing into the summer and fall. 20 FRIDAY JANUARY 25, 2013 | The Observer

Faith Forum Catholic Schools Nurture ‘Open the Window, Aunt Minnie, Here It Comes!’ Back in the day before television dulled the Liturgy Of The Church what religion The Roots of Our Faith imagination, broadcasting baseball on the radio demands, what A faith that is well-tended will have deep roots and the ability needed announcers who could captivate a listen- by Father John faith teaches, Slampak, STL to find water when thirsty and the ability to stay firmly grounded ing audience. One of the best was Rosey Row- what the Gos- swell, the radio voice of the Pittsburgh Pirates. Member of the pel promises, against the storms of doubt and trial. I wrote a similar thought Diocesan in my first few years as bishop of this diocese to reflect upon our The star slugger with the Pirates at that time was Liturgical Commission will be elo- Catholic Schools. Ralph Kiner. quent without In honor of our upcoming annual observance of Catholic Schools Rowswell would get his audience to imagine a [email protected] intending it, Week, those words again pro- little old lady with an apartment window facing and will write by Bishop Emeritus Forbes Field. Whenever Kiner would connect better English than if he made a study of English Thomas G. Doran vide a framework with which to look at our Catholic Schools. with what looked like a home run, Rowswell literature.” It is indeed a privilege that we would yell, “Open the window, Aunt Minnie, So, there you have it. While it is difficult to Catholics have in vast opportu- here it comes!” Then, as the ball left the park, he write a homily, it can be done. Practice. nities provided by our Catholic would smash a light bulb near the microphone. Recently, Archbishop Georg Gänswein, Pre- [email protected] School Education. It is a privi- He really knew how to create excitement. fect of the Papal Household, said in an inter- lege that enriches the life of not only the student, but the teacher The seasons of Advent and Christmas, laden view, “Twenty-eight years have passed since I and the parent as well. with the excitement of the fulfilled promise of a was ordained a priest and became assistant pas- We thank God for our Catholic schools for it is through these Savior, have come and gone, leaving us to enter tor in a small town in the Black Forest, where I fine institutions, supported through the sacrifices of many faith- Ordinary Time, that is, time which is ordered to come from, in the southwest of Germany close filled followers, that our children receive further examples of holy the Paschal Mystery. to France. lives in practice through the witness of those teachers, religious In a few weeks we will enter another season. “In this small town, Oberkirch, there were sisters, priests and parents who are committed to Catholic educa- Open your hearts, everyone, here comes Lent! many children, and for the assistant pastor it was tion. If you think about it, there was an incredible an important task to take care of them. It also What a gift we have to provide an environment for our chil- amount of Scripture proclaimed every day from became a commitment of the heart. dren where science and faith can work hand in hand, and not be the past Advent until now, to say nothing about “I must make a confession: it is never easy necessarily opposed to the same reality of truth. Where sports prayers, singing, ritual moments for the sacra- to prepare a sermon, sometimes you do it well, and recreation can be enjoyed alongside the teaching of morality ments, and homilies. Homilies! sometimes less well, but to prepare a homily for and social responsibility. However, the giftedness of these institu- If you want to read some incredible homilies, children is exhausting! It is difficult because the tions, and the examples that many of the teachers, religious sisters look at what Pope Benedict XVI is writing and children ... understand immediately if you are and priests provide is meant only to supplement, and not replace, delivering. In the meantime, here are Blessed superficial, and they do not forgive you if you are the primary responsibility and example to be found in the home. John Henry Newman’s seven rules for writing not sincere. If you are sincere they will forgive The Catholic school is provided solely as a means to supplement sermons: you everything, but if you’re not honest, you will and aid the parents in their role of raising their child in the Catho- “1. A man should be in earnest, by which I have lost them once and for all. The best aspect lic faith. This does not mean that the Catholic school is the sole mean he should write not for the sake of writing, of preparing and giving a homily for children is means by which a child learns his or her faith. There are many but to bring out his thoughts. that it is also for adults. I have never seen adults good and faithful Catholics who never attended a Catholic school, “2. He should never aim at being eloquent. so attentive as when they are present at a Mass and who learned their faith through the pious and prayerful ex- “3. He should keep his idea in view, and should with children.” ample of holy parents. There are also many Catholics who did write sentences over and over again till he has The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because attend Catholic schools, but who are less committed to their faith expressed his meaning accurately, forcibly, and he has anointed me to bring glad tidings to the because they could not find the example at home. in a few words. poor. And the fact that the primary responsibility for education of “4. He should aim at being understood by his He has sent me to proclaim liberty to captives children in the faith is with the parents is not a new concept. In the hearers or readers. and recovery of sight to the blind, to let the op- Catechism of the Catholic Church we are told just how important “5. He should use words which are likely to pressed go free, and to proclaim a year accept- the role of the parents is and the charge they are given … “to give be understood. Ornament and amplification will able to the Lord. good example to their children.” And of course parents do this by come spontaneously in due time but he should Rolling up the scroll, he handed it back to the living a moral life, being faithful to the commandments, attend- never seek them. attendant and sat down and the eyes of all in ing Mass regularly and living the faith with and through love for “6. He must creep before he can fly, by which the synagogue looked intently at him. He said God and others. I mean that humility, which is a great Christian to them, When parents make the sacrifice and commitment to entrust virtue, has a place in literary composition. “Today this Scripture passage is fulfilled in their children to Catholic schools, they can be confident that “7. He who is ambitious will never write well, your hearing.” (Lk 4:18-21) the Catholic faith and truth they began at home will continue at but he who tries to say simply what he feels, The homily is in the last line. school. Our diocesan Catholic schools work together with the sup- port of the people of the diocese and the support of parishes and You Can’t Lose Beauty that Rests in God parents to be a place where truth which is only found in God, E v e r y o n e Guest cannot be overestimated. works together with science, athletics, math and all other subjects wants to be Column One of the most admired American women, to seek God’s will for us and our purpose of being. thought of as by name name during her lifetime and beyond, was Eleanor So take time out during Catholic Schools Week, Jan. 27 to Feb. 2, beautiful or title if available Roosevelt. Even after her husband, President to celebrate and give thanks to all those who work and sustain our handsome. Franklin D. Roosevelt, died, she served as a Catholic schools … the very institutions which help protect and The multi- delegate to the United Nations General Assem- deepen the precious roots of faith set forth in our families. billion-dollar bly, where she was hailed for her human rights cosmetic in- Catholic News Service achievements. Ordinary Time CNS ©2013/ Martha Campbell dustry, which She left us these words to ponder: “No matter services men and women, attests to that fact. But how plain a woman may be, if truth and honesty what is true beauty? are written across her face, she will be beautiful.” The answer is simple and profound. We all One of Hollywood’s most beautiful actresses, know that there are people in the world with Marilyn Monroe, took her own life because, pretty faces who manage to make themselves among other things, she believed, some say, that ugly by the way they treat others. All of the cos- she was losing her looks. Never, not even for a meticians in the world cannot transform a self- second, allow such a depressing thought to enter centered shrew into a beautiful person. your mind. You can never lose your beauty when On the other hand, many plain women are it rests in God. indeed beautiful because they have something Then there are women such as Audrey Hep- called inner beauty. This light transforms them burn, the beautiful British actress, who starred into admirable and alluring women. Many of in “My Fair Lady.” She aged gracefully, and them do not realize how truly beautiful they are. was known as a humanitarian right up until her There is outer beauty and inner beauty. Outer death in 1993. She offered this uplifting thought beauty is skin-deep. It can be improved with for women everywhere: “The beauty of a wom- some well-applied cosmetics, all of which will an is not in a facial mode but the true beauty in wash off, but cosmetics can never be a substitute a woman is reflected in her soul. It is the car- for inner beauty. ing that she lovingly gives, the passion that she Maintaining that inner light is a spiritual mat- shows.” ter. Those who aspire to radiate true beauty need My dear female reader, you are beautiful. I to pay more attention to God’s presence within hope you believe that, and not only believe it, them. The spirit of love is eternal beauty. The but learn to enjoy your precious life all the more importance of cultivating a deeper spirituality because of it. The Observer | FRIDAY JANUARY 25, 2013 21

Viewpoints Pro-Life Rising, 40 Years after Roe v. Wade From Our Readers dom of religion. Forty years ago, on Jan. 22, 1973, the U.S. Su- sent in the case of minors seeking abortions; and Admonition Does Not Go Far Enough In the past three years, I have preme Court handed down Roe v. Wade, one of to legislate waiting periods so that women in cri- heard two pleas from the altar the two worst decisions in its history. The fi rst sis pregnancies can consider their situation with While I was happy that Bish- to petition the government to court’s mega-error, the 1857 decision in Dred as much calm as circumstances allow. The pro- op Malloy took the bold step honor the freedom of religion Scott v. Sandford, declared an entire class of hu- “choice” world has resisted every one of these to issue a letter to all parishes and only one had passion to it. man beings beyond the protection of the laws; efforts to create situations of informed choice; it regarding the push to redefi ne I just wrote my high school Roe v. Wade declared another class of human also resisted both a ban on the abortion of late- marriage, I was disappointed that showed a picture in a school beings, the un- The Catholic Difference term fetuses partially born and legal require- that he failed to condemn ho- magazine of a graduated stu- born, beyond ments to try and save the lives of children who mosexual activity as the gravely dent who was working for the legal protec- by George Weigel survive late-term abortions. Indeed, in certain disordered, mortal sin that it is. Obama re-election commit- Senior Fellow of the tion. political circles, abortion seems to be regarded Yes, we must love the sinner, tee in Wisconsin and Illinois. Ethics and Public Policy Dred Scott as a kind of secular sacrament. This brutality but we must also hate the sin. Center, Washington, helped precipi- I couldn’t believe a Catholic has not gone unnoticed. Neither has the hysteria True compassion lies in school would honor someone D.C. tate the Civil speaking the truth, as the Spiri- War; Roe v. with which Planned Parenthood attacked the Su- who would support forcing www.eppc.org san G. Komen for the Cure Foundation. tual Works of Mercy attest to, an abortion mandate onto the Wade led to admonishing the sinner and in- The pro-life movement is getting younger Christian faiths opposed to it a vast expansion of the pro-life movement, the structing the ignorant, and help- while the pro-“choice” opposition is gray- and all of the evils associated largest movement of social reform in America 6 ing those with same-sex attrac- ing. What really alarms the pro-Roe forces in with same sex marriage. since the civil rights movement and the natural tions to lead chaste lives (the I am a senior Catholic. I went successor to that effort to repair the lingering American politics about the annual March for same rules apply to all unmar- to Catholic schools through damage done by Dred Scott. Life in Washington, D.C., is not just the impres- ried persons). high school and even to a Cath- The battle to build an America in which ev- sive numbers: it’s that the marchers get younger, While focusing on “natural ery child is protected in law and welcomed in every year. And that youthful vitality is not lim- complementarity” may play olic trade school. I sent my chil- life continues. Forty years after Roe, the pro-life ited to one cold January day in the nation’s capi- better to the secular media, dren to Catholic schools. I am a movement can cite at least 10 reasons why it tal; there are new pro-life organizations among Catholics need to understand Knight of Columbus. And, I am may, in time, carry the day. younger physicians and attorneys. All of which that this battle really is about sin 68 years old, so this is my last Abortion has never been accepted as part suggests that the pro-life movement is American and the eternal consequences of hill to die on, along with pro- 1 of mainstream medical practice. Abortion civil society at its robust and self-revitalizing that sin. tecting our Constitution. is regarded as tawdry and abortionists are stig- best. Granted, religious freedom I am not alone out there. But matized by much of the medical establishment. Pro-lifers have had increasing success at and social stability are impor- there aren’t as many of us as The science of human reproduction and 7 the state legislative level in recent years tant, but whether we call it a before and the younger folks 2 gestation has confi rmed the pro-life posi- and can anticipate more success in this phase of “civil union” or “marriage” coming behind us don’t see the tion and rendered the “science” of Roe laughable. the battle in the immediate future. matters not to the poor soul danger to the faith. The sonogram, which permits us to see the The sheer implausibility of the legal argu- that fi nds itself in hell, having Please give us guidance as 3 results of human conception, has been a 8 ment in Roe v. Wade has become clearer been lulled into a false sense what to do next. cultural game-changer. over time. Few serious legal scholars defend the of security by a world that re- I will do what I can. The people of the United States have deci- legal reasoning in Roe, and even honest liberal fuses to call sin what it is. And William M. Gontko sively rejected the Supreme Court’s harsh Kirkland 4 scholars agree with one of Roe’s dissenters, Jus- if we baptized Catholics keep 1992 decision in Casey v. Planned Parenthood, tice Byron White, who labeled the decision an our mouths shut, allowing our Read This Book wherein the Court instructed the people to end brothers and sisters struggling exercise in “raw judicial power.” In regard to Msgr. Barr’s col- the abortion debate. With leadership from, with homosexuality to damn The humane service rendered to hundreds umn published in the Jan. 18 is- among many others, the Catholic bishops of themselves without trying to of thousands of women in thousands of sue of The Observer, WHEW. the United States, the people decided that they 9 stop them, woe to us as well. crisis pregnancy centers across the country has Things are heating up faster would not be silenced, and the pro-life move- Sylvia Keppel demonstrated, time and again, that the pro-life ment has grown ever since. Batavia than most of us expected. The pro-“choice” world has always been movement is the party of compassion in this de- Defense of Faith May I recommend a book 5 rigid; it now displays an increasing desper- bate. that every Catholic Christian ation. Pro-life organizations have worked incre- A 2012 Gallup Poll found that more than Important Now and probably any of good faith mentally to regulate abortion clinics and protect 10 50 percent of the American people self- I read with great delight but should read: They Fired The women from butchers like Philadelphia abor- defi ne as “pro-life.” heavy heart (Msgr. Barr’s col- First Shot 2012. This is avail- tionist Kermit Gosnell; to mandate informed So there is reason for a measure of satisfac- umn) “Consider This.” able through (online booksell- consent in abortion-decisions and parental-con- tion, if not exultation, on Roe’s 40th anniversary. For years I have felt a lack- ers) and from Caritas of Bir- Abortion in America ing response from the Catholic mingham (205/672-2000). It’s The number of abortions performed annually in the U.S. hit Church in defense of our faith. frightening, but, right on the a high point in 1988 and has been on a decline since. Maybe, I have been missing mark. I’ve been recommend- all of the requests to protect ing this book to everyone who 1.59 million in 1988 the faith and rally en masse is concerned about our great to demonstrate to the attack- country and its future. ers, that we will defend our Thank you.

1.32 1.36 religion and the U.S. Consti- Beverly King 1.31 tution that gives us the free- Marengo 1.18 1.21 Number of abortions per year in millions Voices in the News .75 ome religious people have framed their 1973 1977 1981 1985 1989 1993 1997 2001 2005 2008 acceptance of this proposed law as an exemplifi cation of compassion, justice Pregnancies ending in ‘S abortion in 2008 and inclusion. As attitudes, these sentiments have been used to justify everything from eugenics to 18% euthanasia. If religion is to be more than sentiment, the moral content of these words has to be fi lled in

At the current rate, three in every from the truths of what human reason understands 10 women will have an abortion and God has revealed.” by age 45. — Cardinal Francis George, Jan. 1, about Source: Guttmacher Institute © 2013 Catholic News Service Did You Know? You Did Illinois’ same-sex marriage proposal

To send letters to us please use one of the following: Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, Mail: The Observer, Email: or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of The Diocese of Rockford [email protected] 555 Colman Center Drive (Please put Letter to the Editor speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, P.O. Box 7044 in the subject line.) and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances. Rockford, IL 61125 Please provide your name, — The First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution Fax: 815/399-6225 address, and phone number. 22 FRIDAY JANUARY 25, 2013 | The Observer

For the Record

FREEPORT—St. Thomas Jan. 9; Deaths Parish offices may now forward death and wedding Aquinas: Irma Ware, 79, Jan. WONDER LAKE—Christ the information using interactive forms available at http://observer. AMBOY—St. Patrick: Charles 9; Ruth Hulsebus, 88, Jan. 11; King: Adolph Jelen, 94, Jan. 3. rockforddiocese.org. Click on Contact Us, then on Submit Death Ferguson, 71, Jan. 9; GENEVA—St. Peter: Donald Announcements or on Submit Wedding Announcements. AURORA—Holy Angels: Wil- B. Bernard, 62, Jan. 3; Jose- Weddings ma Fitzpatrick, 75, Jan. 7; phine J. Meagher, 90, Jan. 14; our gifts and our talents and nary): The U.S. bishops’ pas- are, thus acts of stewardship. toral on stewardship reinforces BELVIDERE—St. James: HUNTLEY—St. Mary: Lau- HUNTLEY—St. Mary: Chris- The deeper and stronger our Stephan Alan Ford, 63, Jan. 4; rie Parker, 67, Dec. 23; Paul tine Fioretti and Douglas Mal- the reading from 1 Corinthians: Kudlach, 60, Jan. 11; Edward kin, Jan. 12. faith, the more consistently “Because its individual mem- DEKALB—St. Mary: Phyllis Domagalski, 82, Jan. 14; we will perform acts of charity, bers do collectively make up Doherty, 87, Jan. 14; peace and freedom that build ROCKFORD—St. Anthony of Stewardship Moment the Body of Christ, that body’s DIXON—St. Patrick: L. Har- Padua: Theresa Iasparro, 92, the kingdom of God on earth. health and well-being are the land Chamberlain, 91, Jan. 9; Jan. 13; Our faith Courtesy of Parish Publications Our faith journey: responsibility of the members ELGIN—St. Thomas More: St. Rita: Stephanie Janicki, journey can be helped by our “Stewardship” newsletter — their personal responsibil- Donnetta Hansen, 70, Dec. 92, Jan. 10; seeing, understanding and ac- ity of each one of us. We are 21; Mary Sue Hebert, 75, Dec. SPRING GROVE—St. Peter: cepting our stewardship. We Mass Meditation 25; Mario Valente, 94, Dec. 25; Margaret “Peggy” DuBonn, affirm our faith by our actions. stewards of the Church.” Ruth Graffagna, 90, Jan. 2; 90, Dec. 22; Aldo Bizzotto, 85, Those actions are the use of Sunday, Jan. 27 (3rd Ordi- Courtesy of Sharon Hueckel

Media/Arts Text Requests Get Real Franciscan Prayers The largest group of Fran- ciscan friars in the United States is accepting prayer re- quests via text messages. Here’s how it works: Text the word “prayer” to 306-44 and hit “send.” First, you’ll be invited to send in your prayer inten- tions. Then you’ll receive a text in reply stating that your request has been received and will be prayed for. The intentions are received on a website, and will be in- (CNS photo/Octavio Duran) cluded collectively in the fri- Franciscan Brothers Richard Mcfeely and Robert Frazzetta read prayer re- ars’ prayers twice a day and quests on their mobile phones, Jan. 3, at St. Anthony Friary in Butler, N.J. at Mass. At the MOVIES

Mama who goes from reluctant paren- morally dubious choices, his A-III (Universal) tal stand-in to fiercely dedicat- script doesn’t prompt them to PG-13 After their parents ed adoptive mother. approve. Still, the evident de- die in violent cir- THIS FILM CONTAINS blood- sire to turn out a gritty movie cumstances, two little girls less violence, cohabitation, a makes this suitable only for the nongraphic bedroom scene, (Megan Charpentier and Isa- most tolerant adults. belle Nelisse) spend five years profanity, rough, crude and THIS FILM CONTAINS vio- stranded in an isolated cabin crass terms. lence, possible cohabitation, in the woods. They’re eventu- strong sexual imagery, nudity, ally tracked down and rescued Broken City L (Fox) by their uncle (Nikolaj Coster- mature themes — adultery R Scandal, intrigue, Waldau) who, together with his and homosexuality, profanity, and a surfeit of bad live-in girlfriend (Jessica Chas- rough, crude and crass terms, language combine to form If you or anyone you know tain), becomes their guardian. anti-gay slurs. director Allen Hughes’ dark has been a victim of sexual As a court-appointed therapist thriller with political overtones. abuse by any member of a (Daniel Kash) works to over- The Last Stand Seven years after being acquit- L come the children’s feral ways, (Lionsgate) diocesan clergy, religious, ted in the suspicious shooting R disturbing events suggest that A souped-up Cor- Newspapers • Catalogs • Mail Service church employee or volun- of a rapist and murderer, an ex- the wraith-like figure of the title vette gets more Business Cards • Magazines • Brochures teer, first call the police, then New York cop (Mark Wahlberg) — who, so the sisters claim, screen time than star Arnold please call the diocesan hot- is asked by the city’s mayor (a 815-758-5484 looked after them in the wil- Schwarzenegger in director 121 Industrial Drive • DeKalb, IL 60115 line at 815/962-9347. sensational Russell Crowe), derness — has followed them who withheld evidence of the Kim Jee-Woon’s shoot-’em-up to civilization. Director and co- former officer’s wrongdoing, action flick. Schwarzenegger’s writer Andy Muschietti’s thriller to prove that Hizzoner’s wife return to leading-man roles is no more than competent. But (Catherine Zeta-Jones) is two- finds him playing an Arizona Family Owned it can be commended for avoid- timing him. Predictably, things sheriff who has the last chance since 1888 ing gore and for the conversion are not what they seem, and to stop a violent Mexican drug- story of Chastain’s character, the grizzled protagonist — who cartel leader (Eduardo Norie- is also struggling with alcohol- ga) from crossing the border Quiram Kirkland Chapel ism and battling to maintain his 309 South Fifth Street after the gangster’s escape Fred C. Olson Chapel Kirkland, IL 60146 relationship with his girlfriend, 1001 Second Avenue from federal custody. The result Rockford, IL 61104 a wannabe actress (Natalie Cooper Quiram Chapel is meandering mayhem for the Martinez) — quickly finds him- North Main Chapel 202 E. Main Street sturdy and mature only. 2811 North Main Street Genoa, IL 60135 self caught in a web of intrigue Rockford, IL 61103 THIS FILM CONTAINS vio- Cooper Sycamore Chapel and blackmail. Laudably, Brian 1245 Somonauk Street Tucker’s screenplay shows the lence, gunplay, profanity, rough Sycamore, IL 60178 true costs and consequences language. Se Habla For employment Craig Anderson of corruption. And, while it en- — Catholic News Service Espanol Funeral Director, Member of St. Bridget Parish Apply on-line at: courages viewers to under- For the latest reviews, visit www. Comfortkeepers198.hyrell.com 24 Hour Phone: 815-963-6521 Web: www.olsonfh.com stand the main character’s catholicnews.com/movies.htm. The Observer | FRIDAY JANUARY 25, 2013 23

Diocesan Good for YOU Knight honored: Brad Lau- ference-win- co-captain of the basketball team inger was named Knight of the ning football in his senior year, was All-Confer- Month for December by the St. team and the ence in ’85 and ’86 and Academic Mary Parish Knights of Columbus 1976 basket- All-Conference in both basketball Council 11666 ball team that and golf in ’87. At St. Ambrose in Huntley. He won regional, University, Konen earned four was honored sectional, su- varsity letters in golf and basket- for his efforts per sectional ball. coordinating tourneys and At Marmion, Sharpenter played Collins the Council played in the football all four years, played bas- family Christ- Elite 8, and he was a member of ketball three mas party. As the track team winning confer- years and host, Lauinger ence in the WSCC. He has spent ran track two his entire professional career in Lauinger made sure the years. He was more than 100 college athletics working his way All-Confer- (Photos provided) participants had a great time, es- up from assistant ticket manager at ence and Hon- St. James, Lee, Grand Knight Mick Fulco presents a check to Hope Ha- pecially the youngsters who en- Arizona State University to Ath- orable Men- ven Director Leslie Wicks and Assistant Director Gary Chapman. joyed having Santa visit the party letic Director at Ball State Univer- tion All-State and pass out gifts. He coordinated sity, serving on numerous boards Sharpenter in football in hours of labor, the total was ap- the meal with local businesses and and running numerous Pac 10 and 1962, playing proximately $10,000. All was Knights’ families and arranged NCAA championship events. He center and defensive end his junior donated to local agencies such as for the St. Mary Choir to Christ- was part of the 1996 Super Bowl year. In basketball, he was cen- Salvation Army, Homeless Shel- mas carol to get everyone in the Committee that hosted the 1996 ter for the varsity team his junior ter, Safe Passage for women, Cath- Christmas spirit. Finally, Lauinger Super Bowl in Sun Devil Stadium. year. Sharpenter has been a major olic Charities, a parish in Nigeria, included time for participants to Konen played basketball and booster of Marmion athletics for and other organizations. Grand golf all four years at Marmion. focus on the birth of Jesus, the true more than 40 years. Knight Mick Fulco and trustee In golf, his meaning of Christmas. Ken Spears delivered checks be- four-year City Auction successful: On Dec. 1, fore Christmas. Both agencies are Hall of Famers: Marmion Champion, the St. James Knights of Columbus Academy, Aurora, will induct three-year con- Council 15153 of Lee held their located in DeKalb. The St. James three new members into its Ath- ference cham- second “Silent Knight” auction. council is a little over two years St. James, Lee, Grand Knight Mick letic Hall of Fame on Feb. 9 in pion team had With donations from individuals old, and, to date, has donated more Fulco presents a check to Safe Marmion’s gym during half-time a 48-1 record and or local business, items are than $21,000 to area agencies. Passage Director Linda Moser. of the 6 p.m. varsity basketball in dual match auctioned off and 100 percent is game. This year’s inductees are Konen play over four donated to charity. Deputy Grand Thomas Collins (Class of 1976), years. Konen Knight Brian Muetze conceived Like The Observer Catholic Newspaper Eric Konen (Class of 1987), and held the nine-hole scoring record the idea in which all of his family Rich Sharpenter (Class of 1963). of (32) as a freshman, and in 1983, takes an active part of the auction. on Collins played football, basket- the team fi nished 7th in State. He Last year the grand total donated ball, and track all four years at was individual medalist (74) and was $4,503. This year after much Marmion, including on the con- Team MVP in 1986. Konen was planning, advertising and many

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February is Catholic Press Month ... Subscribe today! The Observer ... More Than a Newspaper! Choose print, digital or both online at http://observer.rockforddiocese.org or by phone at 815/399-4300, ext. 383. Prayer Intentions and Scripture Readings for February 2013 SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY 1 2 Watch for Ashes Daily Scripture Readings Join Pope Benedict XVI in praying for these † Pray for the priests who special intentions this month: Heb 10:32-39; Ps 37:3-6, Presentation of the Lord Migrant Families — That migrant families, to Ashes, our have served the Rockford 23-24, 39-40; Mk 4:26-34 Mal 3:1-4; Ps 24:7-10; Heb especially the mothers, may be supported † Father Martin J. 2:14-18; Lk 2:22-40 annual guide Diocese and who died and accompanied in their difficulties. this month on the days McEvoy, 1926 All priests and religious Peace — That the peoples at war and in Pope Benedict XVI to Lent, in listed. conflict may lead the way in building a the Feb. 8 Please pray for those who peaceful future. Observer. have a religious vocation. — http://www.apostleshipofprayer.org

3 4 5 6 7 8 9 4th Ordinary Time Heb 11:32-40; Ps 31:20- Agatha, virgin, martyr Paul Miki and companions, Heb 12:18-19, 21-24; Ps Jerome Emiliani, priest Blessed Virgin Mary Jer 1:4-5, 17-19; Ps 71:1-6, 24; Mk 5:1-20 Heb 12:1-4; Ps 22:26-28, martyrs 48:2-4, 9-11; Mk 6:7-13 Josephine Bakhita, virgin Heb 13:15-17, 20-21; Ps 15-17; 1 Cor 12:31-13:13; † Father F. James Larson, 30-32; Mk 5:21-43 Heb 12:4-7, 11-15; Ps Father Thomas Heb 13:1-8; Ps 27:1, 3, 5, 23:1-6; Mk 6:30-34 Lk 4:21-30 2008 † Msgr. Thomas S. Green, 103:1-2, 13-14, 17-18; Mk Bartolomeo 8-9; Mk 6:14-29 Father Anthony Becker Bishop David J. Malloy Bishop Emeritus Arthur J. 1986; † Father Philip 6:1-6 † Father F. C. Voet, 1950; O’Neill Bajo, 1996 † Father William Bally, † Father Edward C. Vocations 1914; † Father Stephen K. Coakley, 1966 Potter, 2005 Father David Beauvais Father Michael Barry 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 5th Ordinary Time World Day of the Sick Gn 1:20-2:4a; Ps 8:4-9; Mk Ash Wednesday Cyril, monk Is 58:1-9a; Ps 51:3-6a, 18- Is 58:9b-14; Ps 86:1-6; Lk Is 6:1-2a, 3-8; Ps 138:1- Our Lady of Lourdes 7:1-13 Jl 2:12-18; Ps 51:3-6a, 12- Methodius, bishop 19; Mt 9:14-15 5:27-32 5, 7-8; 1 Cor 15:1-11; Lk Gn 1:1-19; Ps 104:1-2a, † Father Alex S. McIsaac, 14, 17; 2 Cor 5:20-6:2; Mt Dt 30:15-20: Ps 1:1-4, 6; Lk † Father Frederick J. Father Brian Bovee 5:1-11 5-6, 10, 12, 24, 35c; Mk 1958 6:1-6, 16-18 9:22-25 Brummel, 1939 † Father Norbert M. 6:53-56 Father George Birungyi Religious Vocations † Father Joseph P. Lynch, Conventual Franciscans Richter, 2006 Father Matthew 1952 of St. Bonaventura Father Carl Beekman Bergschneider Father Michael Bolger Province

17 18 19 20 21 22 23 1st Lent Lv 19:1-2, 11-18; Ps 19:8- Is 55:10-11; Ps 34:4-7, 16- Jon 3:1-10; Ps 51:3-4, 12- Peter Damian, bishop Chair of St. Peter the Polycarp, bishop, martyr Dt 26:4-10; Ps 91:1-2, 10, 15; Mt 25:31-46 19; Mt 6:7-15 13, 18-19; Lk 11:29-32 doctor of the Church Apostle Dt 26:16-19; Ps 119:1-2, 10-15; Rom 10:8-13; Lk Father Thomas Brantman Msgr. Aaron Brodeski † Father William V. Reedy, Est C:12, 14-16, 23-25; Ps 1 Pt 5:1-4; Ps 23:1-6; Mt 4-5, 7-8, Mt 5:43-48 4:1-13 1954 138:1-3, 7c-8; Mt 7:7-12 16:13-19 † Father Clemens Duerr, † Father Charles E. Bishop Thomas G. Doran † Father Raymond A. † Father James A. Quinn, 1921 Sherman, 1999; † Father Horner, 1950; † Father 1927; † Father William Father Thomas Burr Carlos Ho ner, 2001 Louis J. Pesut, 1999 Weber, 1936 Msgr. Thomas Brady Father Andrzej Brzezinski, Father William Budden OFM Conv 24 25 26 27 28 Kids: 2nd Lent Dn 9:4b-10; Ps 79:8-9, 11, Is 1:10, 16-20; Ps 50:8- Jer 18:18-20; Ps 31:5-6, Jer 17:5-10; Ps 1:1-4, 6; Help our sister Diocese of Chulucanas in Gn 15:5-12, 17-18; Ps 13; Lk 6:36-38 9, 16bc-17, 21, 23; Mt 14-16; Mt 20:17-28 Lk 16: 19-31 Peru through the annual 27:1, 7-9, 13-14; Phil 3:17- Franciscan Sisters of 23:1-12 † Father Joseph F. † Father Desire D. Miller, Heart to Heart 4:1; Lk 9:28b-36 Perpetual Help † Father Leon X. DuFour, Schlade, 2005 1947 Lent program. Get All Priests and Religious 1934; † Father Robert C. Seminarians of the Father Kevin Butler your hearts at http:// Troy, 1966 Diocese Father Louis Busemeyer, observer.rockforddiocese. SJ org/junior-observer by clicking on the hearts link.

Miguel Febres Cordero Munoz Bl. Francisco and Jacinta Marto 1854-1910 Feast: Feb. 9 20th century Feast: Feb. 20 Two of the three Fatima visionaries, this sister and brother were beati- Born with crippled legs to a prominent Ecuadoran family, Francisco was fi ed in 2000. With their cousin, Lucia dos Santos, they had monthly visions schooled at home until age 9, when he began attending a new school run by of Mary at Fatima, Portugal, from May to October 1917. Mary asked the the Institute of the Brothers of the Christian Schools. Though his family ini- shepherd children to promote devotion to her Immaculate Heart and pray tially opposed it, 14-year-old Francisco joined the Institute in 1868, becoming the rosary daily. Both Martos died of infl uenza, Francisco at age 10 in 1919, Brother Miguel. He taught Spanish and religion in Quito for 38 years, wrote a and Jacinta at age 9 in 1920. Their cousin, who became a Carmelite nun, number of well-regarded textbooks and was elected to several national acad- died in 2005 at age 97. Fatima is among the world’s great Marian shrines emies. He died in Europe, and was declared Ecuador’s fi rst saint in 1984. and pilgrimage sites. THE 815/399-4300 OBSERVER http://[email protected] Year of Faith