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

Volume 78 | No. 46 http://observer.rockforddiocese.org FRIDAY NOVEMBER 15, 2013 Logistics Challenge Efforts to Help Desperate Filipinos BY SIMONE ORENDAIN head of the Church That Serves Catholic News Service the Nation, the social justice arm of the Philippine Jesuit MANILA, Philippines—In- province, said before anyone Inside ternational and local groups could take food and other sup- were poised to get aid to the Families of Most Rockford plies to the worst-hit areas, his worst-hit areas of the typhoon- organization would send some- (CNS photo/Romeo Ranoco, Reuters) Diocese Filipino Priests Volunteers pack relief goods inside a government warehouse in stricken central Philippines, one to make sure there was a Reported OK Manila, Philippines, Nov. 8. Super Typhoon Haiyan, one of the stron- pg. 4 but the challenges of getting secure way that goods get to gest storms ever recorded on the planet, smashed into island after help to communities growing Helping in Indiana the right destination. island in the central Philippines, threatening millions of people. Young Observer, pgs. 6-7 desperate for food and water “Because even the military went beyond just making sure cannot pass and go to different people there, because they’re About 600,000 people have roads were clear. areas,” Brother Lee told Catho- (Filipinos) really looking for been made homeless by Super Quick News For the Jesuits who wanted to lic News Service. “They still food, and they’re asking the Typhoon Haiyan. In one of the help, security was the priority. have diffi culty with communi- trucks (for food) and limiting worst-hit cities, Tacloban, a day Jesuit Brother James Lee, cations as well as managing the their access.” Continued on page 4 Special Collection for Philippines Scheduled Nov. 16-17 in Rockford Diocese Parishes The Diocese of Rockford will hold a spe- the United States Catholic Conference Checks can be made out to the Diocese cial emergency collection for the victims of of Bishops and Catholic Relief Services of Rockford. Note in the memo portion of the record breaking typhoon in the Philip- as we respond to immediate emergency the check: Typhoon Haiyan Recovery 2013. (CNS photo/Tom Tracy) pines at all parishes at all Masses this needs for such necessities as water, food, Donations can also be sent to The Dio- Relic of John Paul II weekend, Nov. 16-17. shelter, and medical care and assist in cese of Rockford, P.O. Box 7044, Rockford, Moves to Peoria Next Week The special collection is for our affected the long-term recovery from the disaster. IL 61125; Attention: Typhoon Haiyan Recov- Valeria Bigo, a student at brethren and the Church of the region af- Collection funds will also be used to sup- ery 2013. St. Hugh Catholic School in fected by Typhoon Haiyan. These funds port the long-term need to rebuild the Online donations can be made at www. will then be used to support the efforts of Church after wide spread destruction. rockforddiocese.org/Typhoon-Haiyan. Miami, examines a zucchetto worn by Blessed John Paul II on display at a Nov. 5 youth rally honoring the future saint Historic Galena Church to Celebrate 150 at St. Thomas University in Miami. The rally was part of BY AMANDA HUDSON a Nov. 3-21 tour that gave News Editor St. Michael’s to Host Catholics at some parishes in the Miami Archdiocese a GALENA—St. Michael Par- Annual Christmas ish will celebrate the 150th an- chance to view and venerate Concert, Too a relic of the late pope, which niversary of its church build- was a specimen of his blood. ing on Dec. 7, with a 5:30 p.m. GALENA—St. Michael Parish, here, and The relic will be in the Dio- Mass celebrated by Bishop Father Max Lasrado, pastor, will also host the cese of Peoria Nov. 18 and David J. Malloy followed by a 2013 United Churches of Galena Christmas 19. (See Nov. 1 Seasoned reception. Concert at 7 p.m., Dec. 4. Observer.) St. Michael Church was de- Musicians from 10 Galena congregations signed by Father Samuel Maz- will be represented, along with musicians Diocese Adds New zuchelli, who was the third from Galena High School Jazz and Vocal Facebook Page in Spanish pastor of the parish, from 1835- Ensemble, Tri-State Christian School Mixed To reach more Catholics 1843. Ensemble, Community Handbell Choir, United quickly, the Diocese is now Father Mazzuchelli su- Churches Taize Orchestra and Galena Brass. posting news and pictures pervised the construction of The fi nale will be a performance of “Joy to on Facebook at Diocesis. the fi rst St. Michael Church, the World” as arranged by Douglas J. Benton. de.Rockford. Like it. which was completed in 1842, The piece will feature the combined choirs of Youth Summit Memories, during his time at the parish. all the churches accompanied by organ, hand Bishop’s Homilies Online That church building was de- bells, brass, and timpani. Go to www.rockforddiocese. stroyed in 1856 along with nu- Offerings will be accepted at the end of the org/youthsummit for video merous other buildings in one performance. All donations will be given to the of the worst fi res in Galena’s (Observer fi le photo) highlights, speeches and St. Michael Parish in Galena will celebrate the 150th United Churches of Galena Food Pantry. more from the Oct. 6 event history. In less than a week after the anniversary of its 1863 church building, Dec. 7 with Info: Carol Godwin, 815/777-2108; and for homilies from Bishop Rev. Jim McCrea, 815/777-0229. David J. Malloy’s Sunday fi re, $10,000 was collected for a Mass and reception. reconstruction, allowing Father Masses at Cathedral of St. the architectural style of Ro- has ranged from additional tioning, carpeting and lighting Peter in Rockford. Patrick McElhearne, the sixth pastor of the parish, to begin manesque Revival, has a num- stained glass windows to 1871 have been added or improved This Issue plans for a new church, also ber of interesting features. paintings of the Stations of the over the 150 years. Its roof is supported by a Cross; from interior redecora- Bishop Malloy ...... 2 from a Father Mazzuchelli de- The church continues on as wooden truss formation that tions to extensive renovations Headliners ...... 3 sign. an interesting part of Galena’s doesn’t require supporting pil- after a 1955 fi re that destroyed Nation/World ...... 4-5 Before the church was com- architectural history and as an pleted, the next two parish pas- lars in the church. All the win- the sanctuary and did damage Young Observer ...... 6-7 important setting for all who tors held Mass in the parish dows and doors have arches of to the rest of the church. Faith Forum ...... 8 call St. Michael Parish their convent and then the church a medieval style. A shrine to St. Therese, the Viewpoints ...... 9 basement. The new St. Michael Semi-circular arches are nu- Little Flower, was constructed spiritual home. For the Record ...... 10 Church opened in December merous; they are supported by in 1926 and contains fi rst class All are welcome to the Dec. 7 Media/Arts ...... 10 1863. Corinthian-style columns. relics of the saint. Mass and reception at the par- Around the Diocese ...... 11-12 St. Michael Church, built in Later work on the church Sound systems and air condi- ish at 227 S. Bench St. 2 FRIDAY NOVEMBER 15, 2013 | The Observer

We Must be Mindful — and Joyful —

The Observer (ISSN 0029- As We Continue to Live God’s Plan 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 ast week, the Illinois lenges and stresses that go into upon society. It is not the same Phone: 815/399-4300; Fax House and Senate ap- making it work in our broken but as, for example, arguing for leg- Bishop Malloy sent a letter 815/399-6225. proved legislation that redeemed world. islation to compel others to share on this topic to be read at Periodical postage paid at redefined, humanly From the very beginning of our Catholic penitential practice all parishes last weekend. Rockford, Ill., and additional Lspeaking, the union of marriage the human race, men and women of abstaining from meat on Fri- Review the full text in mail offices. given to us by God. have left their original families days of Lent. English or Spanish at POSTMASTER: send address The Catholic Church, joined and joined to each other in the Neither is the human race’s www.rockforddiocese.org. changes to The Observer, 555 by other Christian denomina- formation of new families with historical support for God’s plan Colman Center Dr., P.O. Box tions and people of faith and their own children. Tribes and for marriage a form of unfair Our politicians can and do 7044, Rockford, IL 61125 good will, strenuously opposed societies recognized, before ever discrimination that we have only make grave mistakes as they For ADVERTISING information: this action of the legislature in there was a government and be- now discovered. have in this matter. Our judges Contact The Observer at the order to support what reason and fore Jesus walked the earth, the As Catholics, we recognize do not always decide rightly on address above or call 815/399- faith know that nature’s God has need to foster this union and to that a part of faith is to accept 4300; fax 815/399-6225, important matters that go be- E-mail: rbergman@ inscribed into the world and into give it stability. and work in harmony with na- yond their rightful competence. rockforddiocese.org. our humanity, reflected in our Undermining this unique ture as God has provided it and Still, we are the leaven for the faith. union was recognized as harm- with the teaching of Jesus, God’s Send NEWS information to The world. We are the hands and Observer at the address or fax That is, that marriage can only ing all of the community: the only-begotten son. Despite the voice of Jesus in our time re- be the life-long union between parents, children and all the number above; send e-mail to damage of sin in the world, we minding others of what is right Observer@rockforddiocese. one man and one woman. members of its present and fu- recognize its beauty and order and good. org; or fill out a form at http:// Obviously, for political and ture generations. As a result, coming from God. observer.rockforddiocese.org/ This is our task going forward. other reasons, the defense of the throughout history, marriage be- There are elements of that contact-us. We must be prepared to be cou- nature of marriage did not pre- tween a man and a woman has beauty and order, like marriage, Subscription rate $28.00 per vail before the legislators of Il- been given special reverence and that are so foundational that we rageous in not cooperating with what contradicts God’s plan and year (48 issues); Canadian linois. So, it is more important protection by societies of diverse have no right — no ability, in and Pan American $29; other than ever to recall what is at the times and cultures. It has always fact, because they are God’s — Jesus’ teaching about marriage. foreign: surface mail $37, air heart of this issue, why it is so been distinguished from other to reorder them. And we can an- But we must also live marriage mail $97; single copies $1. rightly and fully. We must teach important, and to keep these forms of friendship or union. ticipate the tragic consequences The Observer Online digital truths in mind going forward. So it must be said that the na- for ourselves and for future it even more strongly to our chil- subscriptions are also available. dren whom the culture will try Our Catholic faith embraces ture of marriage is not an inher- generations when we live as if Staff — joyfully the gift of union be- ently religious matter but one we have changed this good for to lead astray. tween the sexes, bodily, spiritu- that flows from our own human the better, when in fact we have Above all we must remain joy- Publisher: ful. We have been entrusted with ally and emotionally, that is the nature. abandoned the most basic truths. Most Reverend David J. Malloy context for new human life. Our Catholic support of God’s Finally, we need to keep in the Good News of eternal life, We celebrate marriage and we plan is not an effort to impose mind our role as followers of Je- even in the sad moments when Associate Publisher: gladly take on all of the chal- a particular religious practice sus in a broken world. the world rejects God’s plan. Msgr. Eric Barr Editor: Penny Wiegert From the general audience, St. and that is why they instituted News Editor: Amanda Hudson Peter’s Square, Oct. 16 The Pope deacons, so that there would on ... Our Creed, be more time for the Apostles Features and Multimedia When we recite the Creed Editor: Sharon Boehlefeld to pray and proclaim the Word we say “I believe in one, holy, Our Faith of God. Circulation/Proofreading: catholic and apostolic Church.” Susan Sabrowski, Keith I don’t know if you have ever When we think of the suc- Ludolph, Ronald Bergman reflected on the meaning of cessors of the Apostles, the Jill Bonk the expression “the Church is bishops — this includes the Accounting: apostolic.” pope for he too is a bishop Client Services: Ronald Bergman Perhaps from time to time, — we must ask ourselves if coming to Rome, you have this successor of the Apostles Production and Web thought about the importance prays first and then proclaims Administrator: Gary Haughton the Gospel. This is what it of the Apostles Peter and Paul (CNS photo/Alessandro Bianchi, Reuters) Contributing Writers: Bishop who here gave their lives to means to be an Apostle and Emeritus Thomas G. Doran, with him and that he might is the primary job of an apostle bring and bear witness to the this is what makes the Church Father John Slampak, Msgr. send them out to preach (see — and, second, to proclaim Aaron Brodeski, Father Kenneth Gospel. apostolic. Mk 3:13-19). the Gospel. Wasilewski, Keith Ludolph, But it is even more. Every one of us, if we want to Lynne Conner, George Weigel, “Apostle,” in fact, is a Greek This is important, because be apostles, as I shall explain Father Ronald Rolheiser, Tony To profess that the Church word meaning “sent,” “dis- when we think of the Apostles now, must ask ourselves: Carton, Thomas Craughwell, is apostolic means to stress patched.” An apostle is a we might think that they were Pat Szpekowski, Magarita Do I pray for the salvation of Mendoza the constitutive bond that she person who has been given only sent out to proclaim the the world? Do I proclaim the has with the Apostles, with a mandate, he is sent to do Gospel, to do many good Gospel? Publication Dates: Weekly that small group of 12 men something and the Apostles deeds. However, a problem except that in 2013 there will whom Jesus one day called were chosen, called and sent arose in the early times of This is the Church apostolic! It be no issues on March 29, May to himself, he called them by out by Jesus to continue his the Church because of how is the constitutive bond that we 31, Aug. 30, Nov. 29 and Dec. 27. name, that they might remain work, that is to pray — which much the Apostles had to do, Continued on page 8 News Deadlines: Usually, 10 days before publication date. Bishop Malloy’s AURORA — Nov. 17, 2 ROCKFORD — Nov. 21, MENOMINEE — Nov. Ad Deadlines: Usually, 10 p.m., Confirmation, St. Rita of 10 a.m., Diocesan Finance 25, 5:30 p.m., Mass and days before publication date. Public Schedule Cascia Church Council Meeting, Diocesan Installation of Father Dean Official information on the poli- — Nov. 16, 10 a.m., Administration Center cies, activities, and positions ELGIN ROCKFORD — Nov. 18, Smith as Pastor of St. Mary Hispanic Year of Faith Closing Parish, East Dubuque, and of the Diocese of Rockford is 10:05 a.m., Catholic Forum, ROCKFORD — Nov. 21, released only in the pages of Mass, Elgin Community WROK 1440AM 6:30 p.m., Year of Faith Talk Nativity of the Blessed Virgin The Observer, or in state- College by His Eminence Cardinal Mary Parish, Menominee, at ments from the Diocesan ROCKFORD — Nov. 20, Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Office of Communications and DEKALB — Nov. 16, 3 p.m., 10 a.m., Meeting of Diocesan Francis George, St. Rita Publications. Mary Church Mass for the Great Lakes Elementary School Principals Parish hall Catholic Men’s Conference, The Observer uses recycled and Parish Business ROCKFORD — Nov. 24, paper and is recyclable. Holmes Student Center, Managers, St. Rita Parish hall 11 a.m., Year of Faith Closing Bishop Doran’s Northern Illinois University Mass, Cathedral of St. Peter Public Schedule Our Mission is the mission DEKALB — Nov. 20, 5:30 of the Church itself — to ROCKFORD — Nov. 17, p.m., Confirmation of Hispanic ROCKFORD — Nov. 25, GENOA — Nov. 17, 2 p.m., spread the Gospel through 7:30 a.m., Sunday Mass, Communities of DeKalb 10:05 a.m., Catholic Forum, Confirmation, St. Catherine of contemporary means of Cathedral of St. Peter Deanery, St. Mary Church WROK 1440AM Genoa Church communications. The Observer | FRIDAY NOVEMBER 15, 2013 3

Headliners Same-Sex Marriage Undermines ‘Cornerstone’ Of Society, Says Illinois Catholic Conference CHICAGO (CNS)—By le- sex marriage. that any sexual activity outside galizing same-sex marriage, Il- The Catholic conference, of marriage is sinful. linois lawmakers have changed which represents the state’s Some news reports said that the defi nition of marriage and bishops on public policy mat- at least a couple of Catholic undermined “an institution that ters, said it was “deeply disap- lawmakers, including House is the cornerstone of a healthy pointed that members of the Speaker Michael Madigan, a society,” the Catholic Confer- General Assembly chose to Chicago Democrat, cited re- ence of Illinois said Nov. 5, the redefi ne what is outside of its cent comments by Pope Fran- day the Illinois House passed authority: a natural institu- cis about homosexuals as the a state Senate bill allowing tion like marriage. We remain reason for their vote in favor of same-sex marriage. concerned about the very real legalizing same-sex marriage. Their action “goes against threats to religious liberty that In a July 28 remark to re- the common consensus of the are at stake with the passage of porters on the subject of gay human race — which under- this bill.” people, the pope said: “Who stands that nature tells us that The statement said that am I to judge?” In an interview marriage is the union of one “women and men are not in- published Sept. 19 in Jesuit man and one woman,” it said terchangeable” and the “opti- publications, he said he did not in a statement. mal condition in which to raise want homosexuals to feel the The Senate approved the children is a home that includes Catholic Church had “always (Photo provided) legislation Feb. 14. Gov. Pat both a mother and father.” condemned them.” Preschoolers Learn Fire Safety Quinn, a Catholic, has prom- Church teaching upholds the He said the Catechism of the ised to sign the measure into sanctity of traditional mar- Catholic Church explained Firemen from the St. Charles Fire Department visited preschool- law, which will make Illinois riage, between one man and church teaching about homo- ers at St. Patrick School in St. Charles this week. They taught them the 15th state to legalize same- one woman, and also teaches Continued on page 4 about fi re safety, including how to “Stop, Drop and Roll” if clothing catches on fi re. They also taught them about having a family plan for meeting outside in case of a house fi re. The children saw fi re- ‘Critical Point’ in Marriage Leads Bishops fi ghters’ gear and truck. Firefi ghter Jeff Tarro even climbed up high on a ladder to take an overhead picture of the children. To Extend ‘Call to Prayer’ Through 2016 BY MARK PATTISON crimination Act put the legal judicially challenge marriage ‘Put Out into the Deep’ Theme Catholic News Service defense of marriage “at a criti- laws in more than a dozen cal point in this country,” said states that still recognize mar- For 19th Annual Men’s Conference BALTIMORE—The U.S. the archbishop who heads the riage as the union of one man Supreme Court’s ruling that DEKALB—On Nov. 16, men Church Governance and the U.S. bishops’ Subcommittee on and one woman,” said Arch- from Illinois and neighboring ad hoc committee on Religious rendered the federal Defense of the Promotion and Defense of bishop Salvatore J. Cordileone states will gather at the Holmes Liberty; Marriage Act unconstitutional, Marriage. of San Francisco. Student Center at Northern Il-  Drew Mariani, award- and the Senate’s passage Nov. The Supreme Court’s DOMA The effects of ENDA, Arch- linois University, here, to be winning journalist, writer and 7 of the Employment Non-Dis- decision is now being used to Continued on page 4 inspired and challenged in their broadcaster and host of The faith. Drew Mariani Show on Rel- The theme for this year’s evant Radio; and men’s conference, from the  H. James Towey, president Gospel of Luke (5:4), “Put Out of Ave Maria University, former into the Deep,” is part of the director of the White House Of- challenge to be addressed by fi ce of Faith-Based and Com- the day’s speakers. munity Initiatives from 2002 The 19th annual Great Lakes to 2006 and personal friend of Catholic Men’s Conference this the late Blessed Mother Teresa year will feature talks by: of Calcutta, on who’s advice he  Marcus Grodi, EWTN founded Aging with Dignity to host, and founder and president help families plan for and dis- of The Coming Home Network cuss end-of-life care. International, a lay apostolate Mass will be celebrated by Did you know... aimed at helping separated Bishop David J. Malloy. Wayne brethren, both clergy and la- Messmer will be the master of ity, come home to the Catholic ceremonies. 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It was Marie Stenger’s science classroom. Call us today for a complimentary portfolio review.  The football photo from Aquin Central Catholic High School on the back page of the Nov. 8 issue misidentifi ed the teams. Aquin was in yellow and Rockford Christian Life was in blue. 815 227 0300 savantcapital.com  The date of the World War I truce on the front page Nov. 8 Savant Capital Management is a Registered Investment Advisor. Savant's marketing material should not be construed by any existing was incorrect. The peace was declared in 1918. or prospective client as a guarantee that they will experience a certain level of results if they engage in the advisor's services. The Observer regrets the errors. Please contact Savant to find out if they are qualified to provide investment advisory services in the state where you reside. 4 FRIDAY NOVEMBER 15, 2013 | The Observer

Nation / World Logistics Challenge Efforts to Help ... From page 1 hundreds of police and military backup and also after the storm hit, officials said the displaced imposed a curfew. The United Nations has asked started to loot grocery stores and shopping malls, for about $300 million to support government picking them clean of food, water, medicine and crisis management efforts. even goods that were not basic necessities. The greatest needs were food, water, medica- To try to restore order, the government sent tion, sanitation, hygiene and cleared roads.

Families of Most Rockford Diocese Filipino Priests Reported OK Several priests of the Rock- his family. ish, Virgil; Father Joel Lopez, ford Diocese are immigrants Other priests from the Phil- parochial administrator, Our from the Philippines. Accord- ippines who have heard from Lady of Perpetual Help Parish ing to the Diocesan Office for some family members are Fa- in Sublette, St. Patrick Parish Clergy and several parishes, ther Burt Absalon, pastor of in Maytown and St. Mary Par- most already know their fami- St. Mary Parish, Woodstock; ish in West Brooklyn, and Fa- lies are safe. Father Ariel Valencia, paro- ther Cesar Consulta Pajarillo, As of press time, Father chial vicar of St. Elizabeth Ann Jr. (CNS photo/Romeo Ranoco, Reuters) Moises Apostol, parochial vic- Seton Parish, Crystal Lake; Retired Father Les Suberi A girl transfers drinking water she collected from a faucet Nov. 12 af- ar of St. Patrick Parish in St. Father Perfecto Vasquez pas- Echevia is also from the Phil- ter Super Typhoon Haiyan devastated Tacloban, Philippines. The Phil- Charles, had not heard from tor of SS. Peter and Paul Par- ippines. ippines have suffered several disasters this year — an earthquake in October and Typhoon Usagi, another Category 5 storm, in September. Same-Sex Marriage Undermines ‘Cornerstone’ Of Society ... From page 3 church teaching on homosexu- statement, Quinn said, “Today individuals, businesses and re- Illinois is truly grievous.” sexuality very well, saying, ality. the Illinois House put our state ligious groups will be “sued, Same-sex marriage “ignores “one must not marginalize In 2011, Illinois legalized on the right side of history.” fined, brought up on charges the unique nature” of an insti- these persons, they must be in- same-sex civil unions, which Marc Solomon, of an orga- of discrimination” for any op- tution “based in the comple- tegrated into society. The prob- can be converted into marriag- nization called Freedom to position to same-sex marriage. mentarity of men and women lem isn’t this (homosexual) es once Quinn signs the new Marry, said the Illinois House The Catholic conference and is intimately linked to orientation — we must be like measure. vote was part of “an absolutely thanked “the thousands of citi- the procreation and raising of brothers and sisters.” The governor did not speci- historic year of powerful mo- zens across Illinois who joined children who have a right to a mentum” for same-sex mar- us in our efforts to preserve But Vatican officials have fy when he would, but one of mother and a father,” he said. riage, and I think it just shows marriage in law. This was a “Our faith teaches us to pointed out that the pope’s his aides said he would sign it the country is ready.” truly bipartisan and ecumeni- love all our brothers and sis- comments do not change by the end of November. In a Echoing the Catholic confer- cal effort, reflective of the fact ters made in God’s image and ence’s concerns about the mea- that a marriage is universally likeness and we are to do so sure’s lack of religious freedom understood as being between a with respect for God’s plan,” protections, was Brian Brown, man and a woman.” said Bishop Malloy, adding Coming president of the National Or- In a separate statement, that changing the definition of ganization for Marriage. In a Bishop David J. Malloy of marriage in civil law “does not to statement, he predicted once Rockford said the vote “to re- change God’s plan, nor does it the law takes effect in June, define marriage in the state of change what our faith teaches.” Bishop Lane ‘Critical Point’ in Marriage Leads Bishops Bishop Lane Retreat Center 7708 E. McGregor Rd., Rockford, IL 61102 Retreat Center To Extend ‘Call to Prayer’ Through 2016 From page 3 precedent for increasing efforts “act upon their religiously mo- Nov. 22, 2013 3 bishop Cordileone said during a to redefine marriage.” tivated belief that marriage is 8:30 a.m. — 4 p.m. S Leadership Nov. 11 presentation at the U.S. He added, “The legal and the union of one man and one A Catholic Vision for Leading Like bishops’ fall general meeting in practical implications are sig- woman, or that sexual relations Baltimore, “go much further” nificant, implicating the more are properly reserved for such a Jesus workshop led by than preventing employment than 1,100 federal statutes in marriage.” Owen Phelps, Ph.D & discrimination on the basis of which marital status is a factor The bill’s scope would in- Richard Kunnert sexual orientation and gender for determining rights, benefits clude protection for individuals identity to the point where “EN- and privileges.” and organizations, both non- DA-like laws have contributed According to Archbishop profit and for-profit.   Servant Steward Shepherd to the erosion and redefinition Cordileone, “the State De- Archbishop Cordileone of marriage at the state level.” partment has indicated that pointed to a case in New Mex- A Retreat for the Divorced The bishops, though, voted the U.S. government will now ico where a unanimous state Begin Again: An Advent Healing Retreat 203-17, with five abstentions, to recognize same-sex marriages supreme court ruled that a extend through 2016 a “Call to performed in foreign countries photo studio must photograph Step out of the grief & pain that you Prayer for Life, Marriage and where marriage has been rede- a same-sex commitment cer- have suffered and into a future Religious Freedom,” originally fined.” emony “if they wish to remain fi lled with hope. intended to coincide with the One remedy, he said, could in business.” He noted that of the 15 states Father Year of Faith through Nov. 24. come in the form of the Mar- Dec. 13-15, 2013 Jeremy Trowbridge Archbishop Cordileone said riage and Religious Freedom that now permit same-sex mar- the language in the DOMA Act, which would bar the fed- riages, voters in only three of Info: 815-965-5011 ruling was “particularly dis- eral government from dis- those states actually gave their [email protected] heartening, setting a troubling criminating against those who approval for marriage defini- tion. In asking for an extension for

Weekdaysabout the call to prayer, Archbishop Top o’ the Morning with Bishop Malloy Cordileone noted that it had 6:58 a.m. Live on WREX-TV, Channel 13 in Rockford. gotten a “favorable response on WREX-TV Listen anytime to archived broadcasts at http://observer.rockforddiocese.org. Click on Bishop Malloy. from the field,” promotes the Programs brought to you by Savant Capital Management | Presence Cor Mariae Center and St. Anne Center | Fitzgerald Funeral Homes new evangelization, is simple, Diocesan Office of Communications and Publications | The Observer | Office of Stewardship, Diocese of Rockford flexible and adaptable, follows the collaboration principles in Mondays about Catholic Forum with Bishop Malloy the U.S. bishops’ strategic plan, and gives Catholics the “oppor- 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 http://observer.rockforddiocese.org, click on Bishop Malloy and then click on Catholic Forum. tunity to do what we do best: on WROK-AM pray and fast.” The Observer | FRIDAY NOVEMBER 15, 2013 5

Nation / World Pope Chooses Beatitudes Themes News In Brief Vatican envoy reminds U.S. bishops: For Next World Youth Days No ruling on Medjugorje apparitions By cindy wooden every two or three years with n 2016: “Blessed are the WASHINGTON (CNS)—The Vatican ambassador to the Unit- Catholic News Service an international gathering with merciful, for they will receive ed States has reminded U.S. Catholics that the Vatican has not the pope. At the end of World mercy.” (Mt 5:7). recognized alleged Marian ap- VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Youth Day in Rio de Janeiro, In addition to being the for- paritions in Medjugorje, Bos- Pope Francis has asked Catho- Pope Francis announced the mer see of Blessed John Paul nia-Herzegovina, as authentic. lic young people around the next international gathering II, the Archdiocese of Krakow Archbishop Carlo Maria Vigano, world to read, meditate and act would be held in Krakow, Po- is home to the Shrine of Divine apostolic nuncio, wrote to Msgr. on the beatitudes as they cele- land, in 2016. Mercy, encouraging the devo- Ronny Jenkins, general secre- brate World Youth Day in their The annual Rome diocesan tion promoted by St. Faustina tary of the U.S. Conference of dioceses in 2014 and 2015 and celebration with the pope is Kowalska, a Polish nun. The Catholic Bishops, and told him as they prepare to join him in held on Palm Sunday each saint said she had a vision of the reminder came as one of the (CNS photo/Karen Callaway, Catholic New World) Poland in 2016. year; the date of the celebration Jesus, who said he would show visionaries was scheduled to Ivan Dragicevic, one of the re- Taking the text of the beati- in other dioceses varies. mercy to those who pray for it tour U.S. parishes. He said the ported Medjugorje visionaries, tudes from the fifth chapter of The themes chosen by the and who share that mercy with reminder was being sent at the tells his story at Holy Name Ca- the Gospel of Matthew, Pope pope, the Vatican said, were: others. request of Archbishop Gerhard thedral in Chicago in 2010. Francis has chosen the themes n 2014: “Blessed are the Announcing the themes, Muller, prefect of the Vatican’s for World Youth Day celebra- poor in spirit, for theirs is the the Vatican noted that during Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, which has said it was tions for the next three years, kingdom of heaven.” (Mt 5:3). World Youth Day in Rio, Pope not yet possible “to state that there were apparitions or supernatu- the Vatican announced Nov. 7. n 2015: “Blessed are the Francis asked young people to ral revelations” by visionaries in Medjugorje, Yugoslavia. The let- World Youth Day is celebrat- pure in heart, for they will see read the beatitudes and make ter said the visionary, Ivan Dragicevic, would make presentations ed annually on a local level and God.” (Mt 5:8). them a blueprint for their lives. about Medjugorje, where six village children said they first saw Mary in June 1981. Archbishop Vigano’s letter said, “It is antici- pated, moreover, that Mr. Dragicevic will be receiving ‘apparitions’” St. Peter’s Relics during his parish visits. Most of the Medjugorje “seers” have said the apparitions have continued every day for years. Three say they Going on Display still have visions each day, while the other three see Mary only For the First once a year now. All six are now married and have children. Wisconsin priest’s legacy Time Nov. 24 lives on at Peruvian orphanage VATICAN CITY (CNS)— LURIN, Peru (CNS)—In 1975, Msgr. Joseph Hirsch spent a month For the first time, the bones living in Lima’s slums as he backpacked through South America. traditionally believed to be the Now he’s back in Peru, working to prove a man he met that year is relics of St. Peter the Apostle a saint. But proving a man is a saint is no easy job, and it will take will be on public display for years of interviews, investigation, paperwork and prayer. Father Joseph Walijewski from the Diocese of La Crosse, Wis., diocese (CNS photos/Nancy Phelan Wiechec) veneration. died in Peru in 2006, after 35 years of serving Archbishop Joseph E. Kurtz of Lou- Archbishop Rino Fisichel- the country’s poor. On March 19, his sainthood isville, Ky., (above) was elected presi- la, president of the Pontifical cause was launched in La Crosse. “Even if it dent of the U.S. Conference of Cath- Council for Promoting New takes 200 years to canonize him, I think his sto- olic Bishops Nov. 12 in Baltimore. He Evangelization, said the vener- ry is something that can impact us today,” said will succeed Cardinal Timothy Dolan ation of the relics at the Vatican Msgr. Hirsch, who is also from the La Crosse of New York. Cardinal Daniel N. Di- is a fitting way to conclude the Diocese. When young Msgr. Hirsch met Father Nardo (right) of Galveston-Houston Year of Faith Nov. 24. Walijewski, the older priest was working in Villa was elected the next vice president. Writing in the Vatican news- (CNS photo/Oscar Durand) El Salvador, a Lima slum. He dreamed of start- Look for more coverage Nov. 22 paper Nov. 8, the archbishop, A young woman ing an orphanage to help the abandoned and in The Observer. whose office organized many works on her of the Year of Faith events, said homework at abused children he saw daily. In 1985, Blessed millions of pilgrims marked Casa Hogar Juan John Paul II visited Villa El Salvador. Father Walijewski shared his dream with the pope, who Vatican Embassy in Syria the Year of Faith by making a Pablo II. donated $50,000. Father Walijewski named the pilgrimage to St. Peter’s tomb orphanage Casa Hogar Juan Pablo II. The orphanage started and renewing their profession Hit, Damaged by Mortar with two children, one volunteer and one tutor. Today, Casa Hogar of faith there. is home to 64 children. They live in a family style modeled after the VATICAN CITY (CNS)—A have fallen near the nuncia- The bones were discovered Boys Town program. The children are divided into eight families, mortar round hit the apostolic ture,” he said. during excavations of the ne- each with their own apartment, mother and father. nunciature in the Syrian capi- The single strike Nov. 5 de- cropolis under St. Peter’s Ba- tal, causing limited damage to stroyed part of the roof, includ- silica in the 1940s near a mon- the building and no casualties ing the eaves of the building ument erected in the fourth because of the early hour of the and part of the facade, the arch- century to honor St. Peter. We Put the “Fun” in Fundraising! strike, said the Vatican ambas- bishop told the Rome-based No pope has ever declared New for the sador to Syria. AsiaNews agency. the bones to be authentic. How- 2013-14 Holiday Season! Archbishop Mario Zenari, If the strike had occurred ever, after scientific tests were the Vatican nuncio, told Vati- later in the morning, after other conducted on the bones in the can Radio Nov. 5 that if the employees had arrived at the 1950s and ’60s, Pope Paul VI rocket had been launched just a nunciature, it could have pro- said in 1968 that the “relics” of www.biblebingo.info half-hour later, he would have voked injuries because of the St. Peter had been “identified in been saying morning prayers a way which we can hold to be Nov. 1st thru Nov. 24 Nov. 29th thru Jan. 5 falling roof shingles and flying Friday & Saturday 8 p.m. Saturdays - 5 p.m. Friday & Saturday 8 p.m. on the terrace near where the debris, he said. convincing.” Sunday 3 p.m. Sunday 3 p.m. mortar struck. “You can imag- 4 weeks only! 6 weeks only! ine what I would have encoun- Artists All shows are Tickets www.christmasbingo.info tered,” he said. & $ For Tickets: He told the radio that he was Charity Market VI Authors available 30 Royal George Theatre just getting out of bed at 6:35 Local artists and authors will be selling their high quality wares. for fundraising a.m. local time “when I heard 1641 N. Halsted — Chicago, IL a big bang and I immediately November 23, 2013 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. or special events! 312.988.9000 threw myself onto the floor, Accessories, books, fiber arts, home decor, treats, Want to bring your group to the trying to stay away from the and many gifts to pamper yourself and others. windows because we’ve al- Each vendor will donate a portion of their sales to a charity of their choice! Royal George Theatre? ready had the experience that — Discounts for 10 or more. — sometimes it’s not just one St. Rita Church — Wahl Hall mortar, but two or three.” 6254 Valley Knoll Drive — Rockford For More Information Contact: “It’s not the first time that l these rockets, this mortar fire, Come support our local talent and charities! 773.338.0730 www.nuns4fun.com 6 FRIDAY NOVEMBER 15, 2013 | The Observer YYOO u n g Observer Red carpet celebrity LEFT: Boylan Central Catholic High School sophomore Floren- cia Lowenthal and junior Gabriela Bruscato accompany Miss Illinois 2013 Brittany Smith to Kishwau- kee Elementary School for a Red Ribbon Week presentation in Rockford, Oct 18. ‘Blue-blood’ royalty RIGHT: Aquin Central Catholic Ju- nior-Senior High School’s home- coming court in Freeport was led by King Troy Doty and Queen Erin Glick. School colors are blue and gold. (Photo provided) (Photo provided) on YO t h e record By CHARLIE MARTIN | CNS ’ve been a James Blunt fan since the release of However, those committed his debut album “Back to Bedlam” in 2004. His to bring the “spark” of God’s I big single off that disc, “You’re Beautiful,” brought presence look past their con- Bon re Heart him international recognition as a recording artist. cerns to see the problems in Sung by James Blunt The album still ranks at the top of all discs sold in the lives of others. They try to © 2013 by Atlantic Records the United Kingdom at the turn of the millennium. treat every peer with kind- His fourth, and latest, studio album, “Moon Landing,” ness, even those who don’t Your mouth is a revolver  ring bullets in the sky features the disc’s lead single “Bonfi re Heart.” return the kindness. Your love is like a soldier, loyal till you The song is about a romance in which he tells his They refuse to be locked die partner that “everybody wants a fl ame, but they don’t And I’ve been looking at the stars for a into a particular social group long, long time want to get burnt.” While these words express his and look to be friendly with I’ve been putting out  res all my life (Photo?www.jamesblunt.com) apprehension about getting involved, he also real- all, regardless of cultural and Everybody wants a  ame, but they But I’ve been looking at you for a long, izes that now it “is our turn.” He believes that “people social background. It makes don’t want to get burnt long time And today is our turn Just trying to break through, trying to like us, we don’t need that much, just someone that no difference to them wheth- make you mine starts, starts a spark in our bonfi re hearts.” er the other teen is a theater Days like these lead to nights like this, Everybody wants a  ame, they don’t While the song refers to a romantic “connection,” diva, a sports jock, a geek, leads to love like ours want to get burnt You light the spark in my bon re heart or anyone else. They are Well today is our turn love is much more than romance. Another way to People like us, we don’t need that much look at the song is to ask: How many sparks of love friendly and encouraging. Just someone that starts, starts the Days like these lead to nights like this, will you bring to others each day? spark in our bon re hearts Family life is another leads to love like ours The song mentions that “this world is getting place where they bring This world is getting colder, strangers You light a spark in my bon re heart colder, strangers passing by, no one offers you a their “bon re hearts” and passing by People like us, we don’t need that much shoulder, no one looks you in the eye.” As disciples look to start res of genu- No one o ers you a shoulder, no one Just someone that starts, starts a spark looks you in the eye in our bon re hearts of Jesus, that is not our world. There are many who ine love. face diffi culties without the grace of encouragement. Even during moments group that builds homes for those who need them. They encounter hurt without assurance of healing, when siblings can drive others crazy, a person with If you are a member of a parish youth group, show and suffer injustice without the hope of fairness and a bonfi re heart can keep a sense of humor and be leadership and get your group involved in a service change. genuinely interested in what is happening with the project. Today’s disciples do not deny such “cold” circum- other person. Some of this work may lead others to a type of stances. We are committed to respond. Sometimes siblings become real friends, and work that gives to the community. There are count- We are willing to bring the spark of genuine sometimes not, but those who want to give sparks of less ways to ignite sparks of concern and service. caring to all who are near us. love seek any opportunity to spread the love of God. Disciples of Jesus see an alternative for those who Consider your peers in school. As you know, teen Besides home and the family, look at organiza- do not experience a genuine connection, for those life is fi lled with many emotional ups and downs, sur- tions where you can promote your sparks of caring. who populate a cold world. They want to bring the prise diffi culties, and uncertainties about where one Maybe you could join a group that serves meals warmth of the love and caring that exists in their fi ts in a school social system. to homeless individuals or bring your muscles to a bonfi re hearts.

Send comments to Charlie Martin at chmartin@[email protected] or at 7125W 200S, Rockport, IN 47635. Write to [email protected]. Like Young Observer at

sundays at 6 a.m. on WREX-TV, Channel 13 in Rockford. too early? Catch it on the Web at www.realfaithtv.com Watch Brought to you by The Diocesan O ce of Communications and Publications The Observer | FRIDAY NOVEMBER 15, 2013 7 Vocation Corner Trust in God! Unfortunately, fear is a common element that is present in many of our lives. For some of us this may be a big problem while for others it may just creep in from time to time. The tough thing about fear is that it takes our focus away from the Lord. The key to beating this diffi culty in our life is to trust in God. This is, of course, easier said than done, but that doesn’t mean that we shouldn’t put in the effort to grow in our level of trust. The key to trusting is to remind ourselves that God has a plan for our lives. When we fi nd ourselves paralyzed with fear, we have to stop and ask ourselves, “Do I believe that God is a good and loving God who desires my fulfi llment and well being?” Hopefully, the answer is “Yes!” From that point, we simply have to apply that principle of God’s good plans for us to whatever

situation we may be in. We need to cling to the known (God’s (Photo provided) loving goodness) in the midst of the unknown (whatever may be causing our fear). With a newfound trust we will be better able Galleon sails into Boylan to discern God’s will and to carry out His plan for our daily lives! Boylan Central Catholic High School in Rockford recently received a hand-made replica of the San Mar- — Father Keith Romke, Diocesan Director of Vocations cos, a Portuguese galleon that was part of the Spanish Armada from Ronald Ramlow (center). His hobby Write to him at [email protected]. is building models of warships from the 1500s, 1600s and 1700s. Surrounding the artist and his boat are students from Jennifer Kazmerski’s Spanish IV class who attended the presentation Oct. 18. Helping YOFather YO Father questions are answered by a priest of the Rockford Diocese. IN INDIANA Send your questions to [email protected]. I was talking with some friends the other night and they St. Mary Parish in Sycamore sent 20 teens and fi ve adults pretty much all believe it’s OK for gays to get married. They to Mishawaka, Ind., to take part in a Catholic Heart Workcamp June 8-14. The group joined 300 other teens and adults for Q were asking me why Catholics are against it, and all I could the week to help local residents and social agencies with say was it’s from the Bible. Can you tell me where in the Bible it says repairs, clean-up, construction, yard work, food pantry help, that? Are there any other reasons the Church is against it? soup kitchen service, and distributing donated goods. They This is a topic that requires a lot of attention these days. It also participated in daily Mass, reconciliation, and evening requires both great clarity as well as great compassion. There programs designed to enrich their service experiences, faith A are several references to homosexual acts in the Bible. Let and understanding of Catholic social teaching. Adam Loelke me go through some of them and comment on them. In Genesis 2:24, we see the plan and design of God for marriage. I believe this is the most important Scripture to consider when trying to understand the problem with homosexual marriage. By looking at the natural design and intention of God in creating male and female, we discover that marriage is made for the joining of two people of the opposite sex. I think that sometimes this fact is so obvious that it is often overlooked. Leviticus 18 deals with laws relating to sexual behavior. Verse 22 says, “You shall not lie with a male as with a woman; such a thing is an abomination.” This passage is not so much about homosexual marriage as it is about homosexual sex. The passage could not be more clear. 1 Corinthians 6:9-10 says this, “Do you not know that the unjust will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived; neither (Photo provided) (Photo Kayla Barton Trent Englum fornicators nor idolaters nor adulterers nor boy prostitutes nor sodomites nor thieves nor the greedy nor drunkards nor slanderers nor robbers will inherit the kingdom of God.” Again, this refers to people having homosexual relations (sodomites). The word “sodomy” of course comes from Genesis 19 where we see the sin of Sodom and Gomorrah to, in part, be homosexual activity. We see this warning repeated in 1 Timothy 1:10. Romans 1:26-27 is perhaps the most convincing passage about homosexual activity: “Their females exchanged natural relations for unnatural, and the males likewise gave up natural relations with females and burned with lust for one another. Males did shameful things with males and thus received in their own persons the due penalty for their perversity.” With all of these passages quoted I want to reiterate what I said in the fi rst passage. There is a distinction to be made between homosexual activity and homosexual marriage. Both are contrary to God’s natural plan for marriage and sexuality. But I do think it’s important to see them as related but distinct issues. I wouldn’t want to quote all these Scriptures without saying one more extremely important thing to anyone reading this column. If you have a same sex attraction, please know that this does not change God’s love for you one single bit. Regardless of any sexual feelings or desires you may have, you are of infi nite value and precious in God’s eyes. (Photo provided) Sexual feelings are very easily stirred up to feel and desire all sorts Steubenville’s spectacular of things. These feelings are easily confused. Please do not ever take your identity from your sexual feelings alone. You are so much more 123 students and chaperones from St. Mary Parish in Sycamore, St. Mary Parish in DeKalb, St. Catherine than sexual desires. God wants to help you sort them out. I believe Parish in Dundee and St. Charles Borromeo Parish in Hampshire traveled to Rochester, Minn., to attend this is the most important and most loving advice we can give to Franciscan University’s Steubenville North Conference last summer. The conference featured several anyone who deals with a same sex attraction. prominent speakers, including Father Mike Schmitz, Jason Evert, Jackie Francois and Steve Angrisano. The Catholic band Sonar led worship for the weekend which included Mass, reconciliation, eucharistic Sadly, when someone supports gay marriage they are simply adoration and fellowship. Here’s what some said: “I experienced a physical and spiritual healing which telling that person to act on their feelings and passions rather than brought peace and comfort.” “God is real.” “My faith was extremely strengthened and I felt closer to on the truth of their sacred dignity. This is a great disservice to the God especially during adoration. The speakers had a big impact on my experience and so did all my person who struggles with these sorts of desires. True love always is friends.” “Steubenville this year brought me much closer to God and is making me rethink parts of my centered in the truth of God. life.” Learn more at www.couragerc.net, a Catholic site helping people with same-sex attraction. 8 FRIDAY NOVEMBER 15, 2013 | The Observer

Faith Forum

Teaching Moment Why You Should Read ‘Killing Jesus’ by Bishop Emeritus Thomas G. Doran Sitting at the top of nearly Consider This avoids many of the theological ernor, as well as the king named every best seller list around the controversies about the most fa- Herod. He places the bulk of word is Bill O’Reilly and Mar- by Msgr. Eric Barr mous and important man who the blame of the crucifixion on tin Dugard’s “Killing Jesus.” It Vicar General ever lived. He makes clear he Rome, though he notes that the [email protected] joins the ranks of their previous believes Jesus is God and rose Jewish leadership — again por- best sellers in this series, “Kill- from the dead, but to steer away trayed in depth, actively urged ing Lincoln” and “Killing Ken- from theological controversy, he such a condemnation. Could a nedy.” [email protected] never uses the word Christ. Most Christians reading Forget your political persua- What he achieves is an excit- unfair rule that the academ- this book will be reminded of sion. O’Reilly, the primary au- ing depiction of the last days what they once learned. There Woman be a thor, is trying to write a history ics don’t follow when they deal of Jesus. The reader can smell is little new information here. book, not a political tract, nor with sources about Cicero, or the scent of dust on Jerusalem’s But because it is presented in a churchy homily. And that is Plato, or Aristotle. O’Reilly is streets and the scent of blood Cardinal? why his book is so successful. generally careful dealing with from the slaughtered sacrifices such an exciting and dramatic the Gospels but he buttresses way, “Killing Jesus,” despite There has been a Most Scripture scholars will of animals in the Temple. rumor going around hate it because O’Reilly uses the their historicity with secular The personalities of the Apos- O’Reilly’s assertion, will indeed Q documents written at the same deepen a believer’s faith and the Internet for some time Gospels not as biographies, but tles are teased out of the Gospel and, under Pope Francis, certainly as historical sources. time. That certainly sounds bor- accounts and give us much more give secularists a new look at ing, doesn’t it? But it is not. the most famous man who ever has resurfaced again and He is right to do so. Too many of a sense of the ragtag group again about the possibility O’Reilly succeeds brilliantly lived. academics refuse to let the rel- that followed Jesus. Even more of having a woman as a car- in bringing first century Pales- Give this book for Christmas, evant documents, written close importantly, O’Reilly fleshes dinal. Is that really possible? to the time of Jesus, have any tine alive. By sticking to what out the personalities of Pontius read it and pass it on. It is a good historical validity. That’s an he believes is historical, he Pilate, a Roman thug of a gov- read. Well, since around the A time of the first Code of As Francis Was Hoeing in His Garden One Day ... Canon Law promulgated in 1917, it has been the law that a An educator in Chicago Liturgy Of The Church who instill fear in the hearts of lives.” cardinal must be a priest. That worked with many children. people. Hang in there. was not the law before that. She said, “God gives me a by Father John A true prophet instills hope Jesus is telling his followers, In absolute terms, being a strong back to endure the pace Slampak, STL and confidence that we can live there will be rough times but cardinal is a lot like being a of what is expected of me here. Member of the through it all — with peace in remember that good can come Diocesan monsignor, only at a higher And to be reminded that we eat Liturgical Commission our hearts and with a sense of out of those rough times be- level. When a priest is made a an elephant one bite at a time. hope and trust that God has not cause God is with you and you prelate of honor or papal chap- “And if this is my last day on [email protected] abandoned us. should hold onto God and not lain, it confers no jurisdiction earth, I will never have to say, St. Paul is addressing the peo- What gets us through our be afraid. of any kind. It is just an honor ‘God, I wish I had done more.’ ” ple in his community who are problems is doing what needs In times of need you will and there are those who say that All three readings this week- idle, the ones who were waiting to be done to move forward, receive the strength you need being a cardinal is an honor ex- end urge us to face “the Day of for the return of Jesus and gave working through the issues of from God, you are not alone. cept for one thing — he has a the Lord,” the day when Jesus up their jobs, sitting around, do- forgiveness; changing what can Because God is with you, you right to vote for a pope. Christ will return to reign as ing nothing. Get a life! There is be changed; developing patient can carry on even when it seems The question has been batted king. a lot to do for Jesus, don’t get endurance in the midst of suf- as though the world around you around, “Could a lay person The focus is not on the signs lazy in doing what is right. fering. is falling to pieces. be a cardinal?” The answer is, of the end but on the promise of Don’t interpret the problems Patience means being will- God will make of you what “I suppose.” There were times the end-time, eternal life. How of life as if they were the end of ing to stay put for a good reason God wishes to make of you, if when laymen were made cardi- are you living now, knowing the world. When you do, you do in a situation that does not feel you let God, in God’s own good nals. I think of Cardinal Ercole your time is limited, knowing not follow the word of God, you good, accepting what cannot be time. Consalvi who was ordained to that each of us will one day die? just give in to fear. changed. You can’t always have As he was hoeing in his gar- the diaconate and then made a Malachi warned the people There will be some who your way; be steadfast, that is, den one day, St. Francis was cardinal. Consalvi was a pri- that all those who took faith and claim to be true prophets, never give up. asked what he would do if he vate chamberlain to Pope Pius spirituality for granted, that claiming that they speak in the The last line of the Gospel, found out that he would die in VI in 1783. He later served as a “the day of the Lord” was com- name of Jesus — but too often states it well: “By your perse- one hour. Purportedly he said, diplomat under Pope Pius VII. ing and they should be ready. they prove to be false prophets verance you will secure your “I’d finish my hoeing.” Cardinal Consalvi was a lay- man, a widower and deacon. So for now, since women cannot The Pope on ...Our Creed, Our Faith be deacons in the church, they From page 2 has grown, has developed, Over the centuries, the Church Church on her journey through also cannot become cardinals. have with the Apostles. ... has borne fruit, yet her roots conserves this precious trea- the centuries — despite the Send your topics or questions for are planted firmly in him and sure, which is sacred Scripture, difficulties, the problems, the Bishop Doran’s Teaching Moment The Church is apostolic be- that fundamental experience doctrine, the sacraments, the weaknesses, our sins — that to [email protected] cause she is founded on the of Christ which the Apostles ministry of pastors, so that we transmits to us the authentic preaching and prayer of the had ... reaching all the way to can be faithful to Christ and message of Christ? She gives Apostles, on the authority that us. From this little plant to our share in his very life. us the certainty that what we was entrusted to them by Christ Voices day: this is how the Church It is like a river coursing through believe in is really what Christ himself. has spread everywhere in the history, developing, irrigat- communicated to us. in the News St Paul ... compares Christians world. ing. But running water always My final thought: the Church is oday’s decision to living stones that form an But let us ask ourselves: how is comes from a source, and the apostolic because she is sent edifice that is the Church, and source is Christ himself: he is by Illinois it possible for us to be connect- to bring the Gospel to all the this edifice is founded on the the Risen One, he is the Living lawmakers to ed to that testimony, how could world. ‘T Apostles, like columns, and the One, and his words never pass change the definition what the Apostles’ experienced cornerstone that carries it all is away, for he does not pass, he She continues in history the with Jesus, what they heard of marriage not only Jesus himself. is alive, he is among us today, mission which Jesus entrusted from him reach us? to the Apostles: “Go there- goes against the Without Jesus, the Church can- he hears us and we speak to common consensus of This is the second meaning him and he listens, he is in our fore and make disciples of all not exist! Jesus is the founda- of the term “apostolic.” The Cat- hearts. nations, baptizing them in the the human race ... but tion of the Church, the founda- name of the Father and of the it also undermines an echism of the Catholic Church Jesus is with us today! This tion! ... Son and of the Holy Spirit, states that the Church is apos- is the beauty of the Church: institution that is the Our faith, the Church that teaching them to observe all tolic because “with the help of the presence of Jesus Christ cornerstone of a healthy Christ willed, is not based on that I have commanded you; the Spirit dwelling in her, the among us. Do we ever think society.’ an idea, it is not based on a and lo, I am with you always, Church keeps and hands on about how important this gift — Illinois Catholic philosophy, it is based on Christ the teaching, the ‘good deposit,’ that Jesus gave us is, the gift to the close of the age” (Mt himself. 28:19-20). Conference, Nov. 5, after the salutary words she has of the Church, where we can passage of a same-sex And the Church is like a plant heard from the Apostles” (CCC, meet him? Do we ever think This is what Jesus told us to marriage bill that over the long centuries 857). about how it is precisely the do! The Observer | FRIDAY NOVEMBER 15, 2013 9

Viewpoints

Ordinary Time CNS/ Martha Campbell Voices It’s That Time of Year The leaves have fallen, the daylight hours have shortened and in the News the temperature has dropped into a wintry zone. ur dignity as As I started gathering up the leftover Halloween candy and put- children of ting the pumpkin in the compost, my thoughts turned to how busy God extends the next month or so will be. Even though the beautiful celebra- ‘O tion of Thanksgiving seems to get trampled by the onslaught of to our sexuality. ... But Christmas deals and doorbusters from every retailer hoping to we cannot support a bill, cash in earlier and earlier, it is a like ENDA, that does From The Editor time to pause. not justly advance the by Penny Wiegert It’s quite appropriate that dignity of all workers Editor Americans get to celebrate their and authentic non- The Observer veterans and Thanksgiving in discrimination ... .” the same month. Both obser- vances represent sacrifi ce. — USCCB in a letter to ‘ ... And if thine eye offend thee, pluck it ...’ [email protected] History tells us that the brave U.S. senators Oh, I see you’ve been reading ahead. souls coming to this strange land to seek freedom did not achieve it without suffering from cold, illness and starvation. Yet their hunger for something better kept Door-to-Door Seminarian Finding New Roads them going. Just as the hunger of our veterans to uphold freedom Going door to door to tell strangers about Ca- The question hung in the air a moment — hon- for all people from persecution and domination in any and all as- tholicism and his plan to become a priest had to est, earnest. Decades ago the parish priest had pects of our lives kept them going. These sacrifi ces should give us be the most daunting assignment Neil Bakker made a comment she found offensive. It com- pause and let us ask ourselves: What do we hunger for? What do had ever received. pelled her to leave the church. we give? Are our lives too busy to take time for such questions? The 34-year-old from Austin, Minn., had never “No one ever called,” she told Neil. “I just dis- I know, I know, it’s easier said than done. After all, it’s that time done anything like it — never gone door to door appeared, and they didn’t care.” to get ready for relatives and friends and parties and programs. to sell coupon books or magazine subscriptions, She kept talking, Neil kept listening, and then There are decorations to put up, carpets to be cleaned, dishes to let alone the Catholic Church. Before he entered she opened the screen door and stepped outside. be prepared along with the annual coordination of “who brings seminary, the Standing on the front stoop with Neil on the what” dish to Thanksgiving dinner. Then, as soon as that last Field Notes self-described walkway below her, the two were eye level. piece of pie is cut, it’s time to hit the mall and gather up all those deals the retailers tell us we can’t possibly live without. by Christina introvert had “I found the best thing I could do,” Neil told Capecchi worked in IT. me, “was apologize and say, ‘I’m sorry that the Then it’s time to get busy getting the cards written (if you still Yet there he priest said what he said. I’ll learn his lesson for do that), trimming the tree, the yard and digging out the Christ- was, a broad- him.’” mas sweaters. There will be cookies to bake, Christmas programs, shouldered 6’6” Those simple words unlocked her. To know concerts and parties to attend. And then there’s time needed to with a youthful plan for all the gift giving, traveling and time to decide who will http://ReadChristina.com her wounds were recognized and would go to- face and a neat- ward a future good was powerful. A wrong, at host which side of the family, where, and what will be served. ly trimmed goatee, staring down a long block, last, had been righted. Are you exhausted yet? sweating in the summer heat and feeling totally The conversation continued for half an hour. Well let’s think about this for a minute. How much time do we unprepared. It was Neil’s fi rst week participating She’d been attending a Methodist church, but spend preparing for Thanksgiving? How much time would you in “Evangelization in Action,” a new program of when they got to discussing the Catholic sacra- estimate that you spend on deciding on gifts, buying gifts, wrap- The Saint Paul Seminary School of Divinity in ments, Neil sensed a yearning in her, a wistful- ping gifts, decorating your house and yard, baking and any other St. Paul, Minn., that enlists seminarians to study ness. “God loves you,” he told her, “and he’s al- planning or prep for Christmas? evangelization in the morning and practice it by I started thinking about this when our diocese was planning its evening. Neil and two other seminarians were ways inviting you back into His church.” The woman didn’t reclaim Catholicism on the activities to conclude the Year of Faith. In addition to some clos- asked to pound the pavement around a small par- ing Masses, our diocese has invited Cardinal Francis George to ish in an old suburb, and they started on an adja- spot, but Neil imagines that she feels less hurt when she looks out her back window at the stee- speak in Rockford on Nov. 21. cent street to the east. My parish also planned an inspirational talk just in time for The men took turns leading the conversation, ple and bell that once drew her in. He prays for her often. The rest he leaves to God. Advent. Planners began to worry about attendance because the a role that fell to Neil when they approached a events fell during the busy “holiday season,” and people would red two-story house on the corner. A brunette One in three Americans raised Catholic leaves the church. Neil wants to invite them back and opt for secular rather than spiritual events. And I have to admit, Baby Boomer appeared, staying behind the I am just as guilty as the next guy of thinking, “I can’t go to that. screen door as she sized up the seminarians. She help with the healing. He is challenged by Pope Francis’ call to action issued in his recent inter- I’m too busy.” had been a member of the parish but was no lon- But then that rubber band of common sense snapped inside my ger Catholic, she said. view with Jesuit publications. “Instead of being just a church that welcomes brain and I began to think about balance. How could I possibly It almost sounded like a case-closed comment, make time to get ready for Advent or Christmas without taking but there was something in her voice that lacked and receives by keeping the doors open, let us try also to be a church that fi nds new roads, that time to get my soul straight? fi nality. Neil stumbled through the script he’d How much time each week do you and your family spend at been running in his mind until she interjected, is able to step outside itself and go to those who sporting events or other non-academic activities for your kids? signaling to the kitchen where she’d been mak- do not attend Mass, to those who have quit or are How much time do you spend coordinating all those activities? ing dinner. indifferent,” Pope Francis said. “The ones who How much time will you spend shopping and doing all those “I’m forcing this,” he thought. He decided to quit sometimes do it for reasons that, if properly activities mentioned earlier in this column? ditch the script, look her in the eyes and ask why understood and assessed, can lead to a return. she’d left the church. But that takes audacity and courage.” Now how much time will you spend in prayer? Do you visit Christ at Mass only on Sunday? Do you skip a Mass here and there so you can get to a secular event or run some From Our Readers errands done? If we answer these questions honestly, we all have some work to Council 13123 at Holy Family lic families to join with them Pray for Families do. It’s that time of year to take some time and really ask ourselves In response to the invita- Parish in Rockford has asked in this initiative. With the Most what matters. It’s time to work on those questions and our spiritu- tion from Pope Francis to the each member-family to add the Blessed Virgin Mary’s interces- al well-being while there is no family crisis or health emergency. Knights of Columbus asking following prayer after the tradi- sion, families participating in You can start by searching the pages of The Observer, the dioc- each knight and every council to tional Grace before Meals at the this initiative will be a viable esan website and your parish bulletin to fi nd some ways to spend bear witness to the authentic na- principal meal when the family witness to the sanctity of sacra- quality time inspiring yourself so you’ll have the spiritual energy ture of marriage and the family, is gathered together: “Immacu- mental marriage and the dignity you will need in the upcoming weeks. the sanctity and inviolable dig- late Heart of Mary, pray for our of family life. It really is that time of year. It’s time to give back to God what nity of human life and the beau- family.” Phil Roehrig belongs to God and that is you and me. Let’s hope He’s not too ty and truth of human sexuality, The knights invite all Catho- Rockford busy. 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. 10 FRIDAY NOVEMBER 15, 2013 | The Observer

For the Record

Orso Sr., 85, Oct. 30; STERLING—St. Mary: Paz J. Deaths Parish offices may forward death and wedding information Martinez, Sr., 78, Oct. 29. ELGIN—St. Joseph: Pedro using forms at http://observer.rockforddiocese.org/contact-us. AURORA—Our Lady of Good Recendiz, 84, Oct. 2; Romana Counsel: Joan Malone, 85, Figueroa, 89, Oct. 12; Carlos Life Moment — to help those in need, we Nov. 5; Weddings Rodriguez-Arce, 65, Oct. 12; share what we have and what St. Peter: Alice Abens, 79, Isidro Martinez, 77, Oct. 23; AURORA—Our Lady of Good Pray: That all elected officials we are in God’s name. Oct. 30; may seek the wisdom of God FREEPORT—St. Joseph: Counsel: Ester Alvarez and Courtesy of Parish Publications and put their trust in His guid- BATAVIA—Holy Cross: Shirley Cassidy, 83, Oct. 22; Arturo Arreola, Oct. 5; Kelly “Stewardship” newsletter Thomas J. McNally, 51, Sept. ance. William Modica, 82, Oct. 28; Westrom and Andrew Dohan, 28; Nathan Boscaccy, 88, Oct. Courtesy of www.priestsforlife.org Douglas Mass Meditation 3; St. Thomas Aquinas: Oct. 26; Meghan Ginter and M. Halstead, 59, Oct. 28; Den- Greg Flynn, Nov. 2; Sunday, Nov. 17 (33rd Ordi- CRYSTAL LAKE—St. Thom- nis E. Frank, 77, Oct. 30; John Stewardship Moment as the Apostle: Anita Witte, CRYSTAL LAKE—St. Thom- nary): In the readings, we see F. Harrenstein, 67, Nov. 4; a somewhat frightening picture 75, Oct. 2; Mary Vanden- as the Apostle: Judi Iwasyk Giving our talents: By giving ROCKFORD—St. Anthony of of the end of time. But the Gos- broucke, 93, Oct. 9; Helen Bo- and Ned Zeman, Oct. 26; of our talents, whether in work- gacz, 92, Oct. 13; Mark Fran- Padua: Louis Schiro, 88, Oct. ing for the church fair, teach- pel offers assurance to faithful cikowski, 73, Oct. 26; Edward 28; Marilyn Giorgi, 87, Nov. 1; ROCKFORD—St. Rita: Shan- ing, serving on a committee in stewards that those who per- Hughes, 80, Oct. 27; Louis St. Rita: Betty Johnson, 85, non Herlihy and Andrew Ole- the church, or any of the many severe will be saved. Svadlenka, 68, Oct. 29; John Oct. 28; ferchik, Nov. 2. things we do — large or small Courtesy of Sharon Hueckel Media/Arts On TV At the MOVIES Broadcast times may vary; ond Vatican Council. (TV - G) Strathairn narrates. (TV-PG) Thor: The Dark World A-III check local listings. “Lincoln@Gettysburg” — “Who Was Lee Harvey Os- (Disney) PG-13 “EWTN Theology Roundta- Nov. 19, 8-9 p.m. (PBS): This wald?” — Nov. 19, 9-11 p.m. Wielding his mighty hammer, the “God of Thunder” re- turns with a vengeance in this rousing 3-D adventure, ble: Vatican II at 50” — Nov. special examines how Presi- (PBS): An investigative biog- based on the popular Marvel Comics series and directed by Alan 17, 9-10 p.m. (EWTN): Colin dent Lincoln reinvented lead- raphy of Lee Harvey Oswald Taylor. This sequel to 2011’s “Thor” and 2012’s “The Avengers” Donovan, Franciscan Father ership through his use of the (1939-1963), the man at the finds Thor (Chris Hemsworth) returning to Asgard, his home world, center of the Kennedy assas- Mark Mary and others discuss telegraph and how it shaped where his wayward brother (Tom Hiddleston) stands trial for war the 50th anniversary of the Sec- the Gettysburg Address. David sination. Part of the series crimes. Back on Earth, Thor’s erstwhile girlfriend (Natalie Portman) “Frontline.” gets sucked into a vortex to the Dark World of the film’s title, un- “Serra: Always Forward, leashing a chain of events that leads to battle. The film assumes Never Back — Knights of the operatic proportions as it barrels towards a smash-bang conclusion Cross” — Nov. 20, 8:30-9 p.m. that lays waste to multiple worlds, not to mention some lovely Geor- (EWTN): A look at the events gian architecture in London. Parents should note that the violence that formed young Blessed Ju- is extreme at times and not for little ones. intense but bloodless combat scenes, nipero Serra (1713-1784), from THIS FILM CONTAINS some scary sequences, mild oaths. his birth in Mallorca to sailing to the New World as well as at the About Time people who greatly influenced L (Universal) him. (TV-G) R This romantic comedy, written and directed by Richard Curtis, is a wish-fulfillment fantasy about changing your “JFK Assassination: The De- destiny at will, to win the love of your life. On his 21st birthday, a finitive Guide” — Nov. 22, 7-9 young man (Domhnall Gleeson) is given a rather unusual present On the 50th an- p.m. (History): by his father (Bill Nighy): the knowledge that the men in the family niversary of his death, experts can travel back in time. He uses this special gift to land a girlfriend Vincent Bugliosi, Max Holland, (Rachel McAdams), marry, and have a happy, perfect life. The Gerald Posner, Robert Groden, manipulation of others for selfish reasons, coupled with disrespect Jefferson Morley and others for the role of divine providence in one’s life, may leave the viewer explore competing alternative feeling empty rather than satisfied. theories about the death of THIS FILM CONTAINS implied premarital sexual activity, nudity, President Kennedy. several vulgar gestures, sacrilegious humor and sexual innuendo, — Catholic News Service profanity and crude language. — Catholic News Service Did You Miss Our Oct. 30 Give-Away? Enter now to win a copy of “The Good Thief”

We had some free print and electronic editions of “The Good Thief” by Robert Vall to give away at our Oct. 30 gathering, and we know the rain kept some of you away. But that means we still have a few copies we can share! The book is a modern retelling of the story of Dismus, the thief who died on a cross next to Jesus and whom Jesus promised to meet that day in heaven. We’ll give away the remaining copies to winners of a random drawing. Send your name, mailing address, phone, parish and whether you prefer a print or electronic edition to The Observer Book Give- Away, P.O. Box 7044, Rockford, IL 61125. Make sure it’s postmarked by Nov. 30. If you prefer to enter online, go to http://observer.rockforddiocese.org/ year-of-faith-blog or readwiththeobserver.blogspot.com to enter. Watch ‘Catholic Mass’ Contest closes Nov. 30. If you or someone you know Daily Scripture readings Like The Sundays at 6:30 a.m. on WREX-TV, has been the victim of sexual are published in the Prayer Channel 13 in Rockford abuse by an employee or mem- Request and Scripture Reading Observer Catholic or you can watch on the Web at ber of the clergy of the Rockford Calendar in The Observer in Diocese, report the matter to the last issue of the month, and Newspaper on http://observer.rockforddiocese.org. law enforcement in the county are available on line at http:// in which the conduct occurred observer.rockforddiocese.org Brought to you by The Diocesan Office of and then please call the new hot- by clicking on Daily Scripture Communications and Publications line number: 815/293-7540. Readings for lists and podcasts. The Observer | FRIDAY NOVEMBER 15, 2013 11

Around the Diocese Going on Now Rockford Deanery News Freeport Deanery News

AURORA One member of the Holy Citrus sale: St. Peter Church, Family Knights of Columbus 925 Sard Ave. Delivery November through March. Info: 630/892- Council 13123 Auxiliary 1088; [email protected]; www. joins Knights during their stpetercitrus.org. annual candy drive in Nov. 15 Rockford this fall. Proceeds DIOCESE help the disabled. (Photo provided) Extended deadline: 4 p.m.; The Observer, 555 Colman Center Dr., Rockford. Because there will be no Nov. 29 edition of The Observer, the Nov. 22 What’s UP section will include events from Nov. 25-Dec. 8. Online submissions will be accepted at http://observer.rockforddiocese. org/contact-us until 5 p.m. AURORA Veterans honored: 3 p.m.; Marmion (Photo provided) Academy, 1000 Butterfi eld Road. Children from St. Mary School in East Dubuque helped celebrate the Special guests: Col. (Ret) Gary and 10 a.m. Mass with the parish Oct. 27. Maj. (Ret) Grace Leonard, USAF. Veterans and others welcome. Info: 630/897-6936, www.marmion.org. Submit by Mail: Send event news and photos to The Observer, P.O. Box 7044, Rockford, IL 61125. Elsewhere (Photo provided) Father John Evans, parochial administrator at St. Rita Parish in Rock- Nov. 17 ford, blesses pets at St. Rita School in September in honor of St. Francis. NOVENAS mercy toward me and mine. Amen. Say SINSINAWA, WIS. Prayer to the Blessed Virgin Mary this prayer for three consecutive days “Cantata of Many Cultures”: 2 p.m..; O most beautiful fl ower of Mount Carmel, without asking a favor. Then on the third Sinsinawa Mound, County Road fruitful vine, Splendor of Heaven, Blessed day make your request. Published in Z, off Wisconsin Rte. 11. “Messiah” Immediate Position Available Mother of the Son of God, Immaculate gratitude of grace attained and for many and Czech cantata. Parking shuttle Lighthouse Catholic Media is Virgin, assist me in my necessity. O requests granted. M.A. available. Cost: $10. Info: 608/748- Star of the Sea, help me and show me seeking a Fulltime Flocknote that you are my mother. O Holy Mother Thanks to Sacred 4411; www.sinsinawa.org. Administrator for on site in of God, Queen of Heaven and Earth, I Heart of Jesus Thanks to St. Jude and the Sacred humbly beseech you from the bottom of Sycamore, IL. Responsible for directing sales and use Heart of Jesus for several prayers my heart to secure me in my necessity Dec. 4 answered. May the Sacred Heart of of Flocknote to Pastors, Parish, Ministry and Volunteer (make request). There are none that can SINSINAWA, WIS. Jesus be adored, glorifi ed, loved and Staff. Flocknote is a comprehensive, simple two-way withstand your power. O Mary conceived Women’s retreat: 9 a.m.-3 p.m.; preserved throughout the world, now without sin pray for us who have recourse communication system for sending email, newsletters, & and forever. Sacred Heart of Jesus pray Sinsinawa Mound, County Road Z, to thee (3 times). I place this prayer in your text messages to both small and large audiences. Candidate for us. Holy Mary, Mother of Jesus, pray off Wisconsin Rte. 11. Advent retreat hands (3 times). Amen. Say this prayer for for us. Amen. Pray this prayer with faith, and lunch. Cost: $45. Info: 608/748- must be an active, practicing Catholic and possess a high 3 consecutive days. Novena is published relying on God’s will, as a novena, nine attention to detail, be reliable, and work collaboratively. Prior in gratitude. 4411; www.sinsinawa.org. J.H.R. B.K.W. times a day for nine days. This published sales experience a plus. Salary equal with skill. Through Powerful Prayer in gratitude. Thank you St. Jude and God’s Grace, over the last seven years, this Apostolate has to the Holy Spirit Sacred Heart of Jesus. M.C. F.F. grown to become the largest producer of Catholic Audio Cds Holy Spirit, you who solve all problems, who lights all roads so that I can attain and MP3 downloads in the world. Includes benefits and a my goals, you who give me the divine To have a Novena printed: Send great working environment. The headquarters has a private gift to forgive and forget all evil against a $10 check for each Novena along chapel with reservation of the Most Blessed Sacrament. We me, and that in all instances of my life with the name of the Novena you you are with me, I want in this short want and the initials you wish us Newspapers • Catalogs • Mail Service offer Eucharistic Adoration and as a group pray daily the prayer to thank you for all things and to to use to: Business Cards • Magazines • Brochures Rosary and Divine Mercy Chaplet. confi rm once again that I never want to The Observer Please send resume to: be separated from you even and in spite P.O. Box 7044 815-758-5484 of all material illusion. I wish to be with Rockford, IL 61125 121 Industrial Drive • DeKalb, IL 60115 [email protected] you in eternal glory. Thank you for your

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Around the Diocese

McHenry Deanery Save the Date Students from St. Thomas the Apostle School in Crystal Lake Nov. 30-Dec. 1 who sold 15 or more magazine AURORA or music items for their annual 23rd Christmas craft show: 9 athletic department fundraiser a.m.-4 p.m. Nov. 30, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. were rewarded with a limousine Dec. 1; Marmion Academy, 1000 Butterfield Road. Free parking both ride and lunch. Of the 19 students days; free shuttle service Nov. 30. who earned the prize, those who No babysitting or strollers. More than posed with Assistant Principal 150 crafters and vendors. Cost: $4, Mary Pomili are (from left) Markus 12 and older. Info: www.marmion. Pomili, Kevin Pacheco, John Beis- org. ner, Connor Tegeler, Stella Ross, ROCKFORD Lydia Quinnan, Payton Winnicki, 68th “Messiah”: 7 p.m. Nov. 30, 3 Alexandra Scholl, Grace Cotteleer, p.m. Dec. 1; Trinity Lutheran Church, Grace Brickey, Maria Chavarria, Ra- 200 N. First St. Sponsor: Rockford chel Stewart, and Molly Hartigan. Choral Union. Free; handicapped- (Photo provided) accessible. Dec. 4 GALENA Christmas concert: 7 p.m.; St. Michael Church, 227 S. Bench St. Sponsor: United Churches of Galena. Performers: church, high school and area musicians. Free; donations benefit Galena Food Pantry. Info: Carol Godwin, 815/777- 2108; Rev. Jim McCrea, 815/777- 0229. Dec. 5 ROCKFORD Blanket workshop: 8 a.m. Mass, St. Bernadette Parish, 2400 Bell Ave. (Photo provided) Catholic Women’s League workshop Families with special needs children and their friends gather for a monthly Mass at St. Margaret Mary Church in Algonquin every third Tuesday of follows in community center. Brunch the month at 7 p.m. Children serve as lectors, singers, and helpers to the priest during the homily. Older children and adults help with the music and for volunteers. Collection of new sing in the choir. Each Mass ends with individual blessings. It is an environment of joy and understanding where no one is disturbed by distractions. and gently used baby layette items; Afterwards, there are refreshments and fellowship. Father Peter Tymko, OFM Conv. , parochial vicar at the parish, poses with some of the families after clothing for 3- to 6-month olds. Info: one of the monthly Masses. Linda Mary Settles at 847/658-7625 or [email protected] has information about the ministry. Rosie Sheridan, 815/978-4779, [email protected]; Linda Stoinski, 815/975-0601. What’s UP For more events, visit the calendar page at www.rockforddiocese.org. Dec. 6 Boland Assembly 1702. Center, 7708 E. McGregor Road. ROCKFORD WONDER LAKE 7 a.m.-2 p.m.; Mon Nov 18 Leaders: Owen Phelps, Ph.D. & Bake and book sale: AURORA Bake sale, boutique: noon-7 p.m. Presence St. Anne Center lobby, Richard Kunnert Topic: “Catholic 6:30-8 p.m.; (also 9 a.m.-noon Nov. 24); Christ 4405 Highcrest Road. Homemade FREEPORT Band try-outs: Vision for Leading Like Jesus.” Marmion Academy, 1000 the King Parish Hall, 5006 Wonder goodies and books of all kinds. Info: Food drive: 7 a.m.-3 p.m. (through Cost: $79. Info: 815/965-5011. Lake Road. Sponsor: Ladies’ 815/398-2411. Nov. 22); Aquin Central Catholic Butterfield Road. For area “Godspell”: 7:30 p.m. (also Sodality. Home-baked goods and Junior-Senior High School, 1419 S. middle school students; three concerts are scheduled. 7:30 p.m. Nov. 23 and 2 p.m. “unique boutique” items; coffee Dec. 8 Galena Ave. Stocking the Freeport Free. Info: Sara Gregory, Nov. 24); Boylan Central Catholic and cider available; basket raffle. Area Church Cooperative Pantry. ROCKFORD westsuburbanjuniorcatholicband High School auditorium, 4000 Info: 815/653-2561. 1-3 p.m. (also Cash and non-perishable foods Advent lecture: @gmail.com. St. Francis Dr. Cost: $8. Info: Dec. 15); Cathedral of St. Peter, accepted. Local pick-up available. 815/877-0531. 1243 N. Church St. Speaker: John Info: 815/235-3154, ext. 230. ROCKFORD Sun Nov 24 McGrath. Topic: “Leadership in the Sacraments talk: after 8:30 a.m. WOODSTOCK Bible: Kings, Prophets and Priests.” 9:45 a.m.-12:45 pm.; Tue Nov 19 Mass; Holy Family Parish, 4401 Visit day: MCHENRY Sponsor: Rockford Deanery Council Highcrest Road. Speaker: Bishop Marian Central Catholic High St. Nicholas night: 7 p.m.; of Catholic Women and Bible Emeritus Thomas G. Doran. Topic: School, 1001 McHenry Ave. Church of Holy Apostles; 5211 W. Fellowship for Men. Cost: $10 for BATAVIA “Teaching on the Sacraments.” For eighth-graders interested in Bull Valley Road. Speaker: Terry series; $5 per lecture. Info: 815/543- “Unfiltered”: 5 and 7:15 p.m.; (Second of two talks). Info: Lisa attending Marian. Info: 815/338- Lynch of Histories for Kids. Cost: 1178. Holy Cross Parish, 2300 Main Mayer, 815/398-4280. 4220, ext. 107. $5 per family. Info: Bell Tower Gifts St. Topic: “Equipping Parents for Year of Faith lecture: 6:30 p.m.; and Books; religious ed office; Dec. 13-14 an Ongoing Conversation about St. Rita Parish Wahl Hall, 6254 815/385-5673. ROCKFORD Online Pornography.” For parents Sat Nov 23 Valley Knoll Dr. Speaker: Cardinal Healing retreat: Bishop Lane and other adults. Additional Francis George of the Archdiocese ROCKFORD Retreat Center, 7708 E. McGregor presentations: 5 and 7 p.m. Nov. of Chicago. Topic: The Year of CRYSTAL LAKE English Year of Faith closing: Road. For divorced people. Led by 20; 8:45 a.m. and 7 p.m. Dec. 11. Faith. Collection: non-perishable 34th Christmas in the Country: 11:30 a.m. Mass; Cathedral of St. Father Jeremy Trowbridge. Cost: Info: 630/879-4750. food items for Catholic Charities. 8 a.m.-3 p.m.; St. Elizabeth Ann Peter, 1243 Church St. Celebrant: $30. Info: 815/965-5011. Free. Info: www.rockfordiocese.org. Seton Catholic Church, 1023 Bishop David J. Malloy. McHenry Ave. 60+ juried crafters; Thu Nov 21 parish Women’s Group candy WOODSTOCK Send Save the Date items to Fri Nov 22 and baked goods; oplatek; food Open house: 1-3 p.m.; Marian Observer@rockforddiocese. AMBOY court; Advent calendars, Seton Central Catholic High School, org or go to http://observer. KC Assembly meeting: 7:30 ROCKFORD Artisans, raffles. Cost: $1. Info: 1001 McHenry Ave. For potential rockforddiocese.org/contact- p.m.; St. Patrick Parish, 32 N. Leadership retreat: 8:30 a.m.- Ann Scott, 815/455-1233; www. students and their families. Info: us and click on Submit Events Jones Ave. Father William F. 4:30 p.m.; Bishop Lane Retreat elizabethannseton.org events. www.marian.com. and News. They’re here! Order extras 2013-14 for just Diocese of Rockford $15 each. Call 815/399-4300, ext. 383 or Official Directory visit www.rockforddiocese.org.