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Vol. XXXIV, No.1 January, 1952

Convert Work $ome P~~aeUcal. g~ /M B~ Rev. Benjamin F. Bowling, C.S.P.

CATHOLIC PRESS COMMUNITY RE PO SIBILI

AMBAS ADOR OF CIIRI 1

Heart of World Peace Lies in Spiritual Order -Pius XII

A NATIONAL MONTHLY P BLISHED BY THE NATIONAL CATHOLIC WELFARE CONFERENCE

Price: 30e NATIONAL CATHOLIC WELFARE CONFERENCE

TABLE OF CONTENTS "Over a manifold activity ot the laity, carried on in various localities according to the needs ot the times, is placed the National Catholic Welfare Conference, an organiza­ tion which supplies a ready and well-adapted instrument tor your episcopal ministry."­ Pope Plus XII. JANUARY, 1952 The National Catholic Welfare Conference was organized in September, 1919. The N. C. W. C. is a common agency acting under the authority of the bishops to PAGI: promote the welfare of the Catholics o! the country. Heart of World Peace Lies in It has for its incorporated purposes "unifying, coordinating and organizing the Spiritual Order 3 Catholic people of the United States in works of education. social welfare, immigrant aid and other activities." The English Translation of the The Conference is conducted by an administrative board composed o! ten archbishops 19.51 Christmas Eve Discourse and bishops aided by seven assistant bishops. by His Holitzess, Pope Pius Each department of the N. C. W. C. is administered by an episcopal chairman. XII. Through the general secretary, chief executive officer of the Conference, the reports o! the departments and information on the general work o! the headquarters staff are sent regularly to the members o! the administrative board. The administrative bishops of the Conference report annually upon their work to Convert Work: Some Practical Sugges­ the Holy See. tions for Beginners 6 Annually at the general meeting of the bishops, detailed reports are submitted by the administrative bishops of the Conference and authorization secured for the work of Rev. Benjamin F. Bowling, C.S.P. the coming year. No official action is taken by any N. C. W. C. department without authorization of its episcopal chairman. Catholic Press Responsibility to the No official action is taken in the name of the whole Conference without authorization Community ...... 8 and approval o! the administrative board. It is not the policy of theN. C. W. C. to create new organizations. Article V in the 19.51-.52 forum It helps, unifies, and leaves to their own fields those that already exist. series: "The Catholic and the It aims to defend and advance the welfare both o! the Catholic Church and of our Community." beloved Country. It seeks to inform the life of America of right fundamental principles o! religion and fohn V. R. Lebkicher morality. It 1s a central clearing house of information regarding activities of Catholic men and women. Calendar of Scheduled Catholic Meet­ N. C. W. C. is comprised of the following departments and bureaus: ings and Events ...... 00 00 ...... • 11 ExECUTIVE-Bureaus maintained: Immigration, National Center Confraternity of Christian Doctrine, Information, Publications, Business and Auditing, and CATHOLIC ArTION, monthly publication, N. C. W. C. National Council Catholic Women 12 YouTH-Fac111tates exchange of information regarding the philosophy, organization, and program-content of Catholic youth organizations; promotes the National Catholic Ambassadors of Christ- The Youth Council, the federating agency for all existing, approved Catholic you~ ' Christian lP'ay: General Theme groups, contacts and evaluates national governmental and non-governmental yout. Y organizations and youth servicing organizations. of D.C.C.lP. Conventio11S­ EDUCATION-Divisions: Statistics and In/ormation, Teacher Placement, Research Catholic Sorority News- First in Ken­ Education, Library Service, and Inter-American Collaboration. tucky: T h e C o vi 11 g t o 11 PREss-serves the Cathollc press in the United States and abroad with regular news, D .C.C.W. features, editorial and pictorial services. SociAL AcTION-Covers the fields of Industrial Relations, International Affairs, Civic Edu­ cation, Social Welfare, Family Lite, and Rural Life. National Council Catholic Men 16 LEGAL-Serves as a clearing house of information on federal, state and local legislation. LAY ORGANIZATIONs-Includes the National Council o! Catholic Men and the National April 79-20: Annual Meeting Council o! Catholic Women, which maintain at N. C. W. C. headquarters permanent Date for 19.52-"Front-Line representations in the interests of the Catholic laity. These councils !unction through some 9,000 affillated societies-national, state, diocesan, district, local and parish; C((tholic Action" A Valuable also through units of the councils in many of the dioceses. In/ormation Sen,ice- Radio­ The N. C. C. M. maintains at its national headquarters a Catholic Evidence Bureau, Telet,ision. sponsors three weekly nationwide radio programs-the Catholic Hour over the National Broadcasting Company's Network, and the Hour o! Faith over the American Month by Month with the N.C.W.C. 20 Broadcasting Company's Network, and the Catholic program in the "Faith in Our Time" series on the Mutual Broadcasting System-and conducts a Catholic Radio Bureau. TheN. C. C. W. through its National Committee System maintains an adult education service, transmitting to its affiliates information and suggestions in all fields covered by the N. C . . W. C., and conducting Institutes and Regional Conferences for leader­ ship training; it cooperates with War Relief Services-N. C. W. C. in a continuing clothing project for children; from 1921 to 1947 it sponsored the National Catholic The contents of CATHOLIC ACTION arc School o! Social Service. indexed in the Catholic Periodical Index. CATHOLIC AcTION STUDY-Devoted to research and reports as to pronouncements, methods, programs and achiev&ments in the work o! Catholic Action at home and abroad. CATHOLIC ACTION has granted per­ All that are helped may play their part in promoting the good work and in maintain­ mission to University Microfilms, 313 ing the common agency, the National Catholic Welfare Conference. N. First Street, Ann Arbor, Mich., to CATHOLIC ACTION records monthly the work of the Conference and its affiliated produce volumes of CATHOLIC ACTION organizations. It presents our common needs and opportunities. 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[2] CATH OLIC ACTION CATHOLIC ACTION

Vol. XXXIV, No. 1 January, 1952

Heart of World Peace Lies in Spiritual Order Follow1ng is the English translation from the Vatican of the 1951 Christmas Eve d1scourse by His Holiness Pope Pius XII. It was broadcast in Italian by the Holy Father and followed on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day by broadcasts in 25 other languages.

NCE again, and for the thirteenth time, the grace Father, Who at the birth of His Divine Son sent choirs 0 of the Eternal High Priest permits Us, on the of angels to sing of peace upon earth, deign to inspire anniversary of the Nativity, to address the Our words. atholic world from this venerable See. What then the contribution of the Church to the cause of ·ach year this lovely feast offers Us the occasion of peace cannot be. Supposed neutrality of the Church. expressin~ to al.l the faithful of the world Our pater­ nal greetmg w1th a profound sense of the mysteri­ The present state of affairs demands from Us a ous bond of faith, hope and love which unites, at the frank and sincere judgment upon events. But these Crib of the new-born Saviour, those redeemed by ev nts have reached such a critical stage that We are Christ. forced to recognize that the world is split into two In contrast with the collapse of so many earthly opposing camps and that all men are divided into institutions and the failure of so many ephemeral pro­ two clearly separated groups which consequently are grams, the spirit of God sustains, with the vigor of very loath to concede to anyone any sort of liberty perpetually self-renewing youth, His spouse the to maintain a position of political neutrality. Church, the fountainhead of abundant life, whose Now those who wrongly consider the Church as a ever more vivid manifestations reveal her supernatural kind of earthly power, or a sort of world empire are character; inexpressible comfort for each believer; easily induced to demand also from her, as from insoluble riddle for the enemies of the Faith. others, the renunciation of her neutrality and a defi­ Though great is Our joy in finding Ourselves once nite election in favor of one or the other side. How­ again in this Christmas gathering united with the ever, there can be no question of the Church renounc­ faithful of all continents-and also with those who ing her political neutrality, for the simple reason she are one with Us in faith in God-nevertheless the cann t serve purely political interests. harsh reality of the hour casts upon this joyful anni­ Let it not be thought that this is a mere play on versary the saddening shadow of clouds which still words or concepts. It suffices to have an elementary hover menacingly over the world. notion of the foundation upon which the Church as a society is based, in order to understand Our mean­ The contribution of the Church to the cause of Peace. ing without need of further explanations. The We realize full well the intimate satisfaction and Divine Redeemer founded the Church in order to the unconditional docility with which Our devoted communicate to all men through her mediation Hi children always listen to the voice of the common truth and His grace unto the end of time. The Church Father; yet We are not unaware of the anxiety with is His "Mystical Body." She b longs entirely to which they once again await his words on the great Christ, as Christ belongs to God. (I Cor. 3, 23). subject which stirs and agitates the human heart: the Statesmen, and at times even churchmen, who want subject of peace, and, in particular, his precise and to make the Spouse of Christ their ally or the instru­ concrete statement on the contribution of the Church ment of their political alliances, ei'"her national or to the cause of peace itself; that is to say what the international, would do injury to the very essence of contribution of the Church cannot be, what it can the Church and would inflict damage on the life and should be, what it really is. May the Heavenly which is proper to her; in a word, they would bring

JAN UARY, 1952 [3] her down to the same level on which conflicting tem­ And now, what contribution can and should the Church poral interests are locked in struggle. And this is and make to the cause of peace? remains true, even where there is question of ends and Sin~e this contribution cannot be purely political, interests legitimate in themselves. and stnce the normal place and essential mission of Whoever, then, would wish to detach the Church the Church is not in the area where nations-friendly, from her supposed neutrality, or bring pressure to antagonistic, or neutral-continually meet, bringing bear on her in the question of peace, or diminish her with them their ideas and concrete political tenden­ right freely to determine whether, when, or how she cies, what, then, should be her contribution to the may wish to come to a decision in the various con­ peace? What is the legal right, what the peculiar flicts, such a one would not make the Church's co­ nature of this contribution? operation in the work of peace easier. For any decision on the Church's part, even in political ques­ The legal right and the peacemaking mission of the Church. tions, can never be purely political, but must always The legal right? Behold: nowhere will you find be sub specie aeternitatis, in the light of the divine it as clear and almost palpable as at the crib of law, of its order, its values, its standards. Bethlehem. The Infant lying there is the Eternal It is not rare to see purely temporal powers and Son of God made man, and his name is princeps pacis, institutions abandon their neutrality, and align them­ Prince of Peace. Prince and founder of peace-such selves today in one camp, tomorrow perhaps in an­ is the character of the Saviour and Redeemer of the other. It is a game of alliances which can be ex­ whole human race. His sublime divine mission is to plained by the constant shifting of temporal interests. establish peace between each man and God, between But the Church keeps herself aloof from such un­ men themselves and between peoples. stable alliances. If she passes judgment, that does This mission, however, and this desire for peace not mean that she is thereby abandoning a neutrality are not born of timidity and weakness, which can hitherto observed; for God is never neutral toward meet evil and the wicked only with resignation and human events in the course of history, and so neither patience. Everything in the frailty of the Babe of can His Church be. If she speaks and judges on the Bethlehem is hidden majesty and contained force, problems of the day, it is with the clear consciousness which only love restrains, in order to make the hearts of anticipating, in the power of the Holy Spirit, the of men capable of begetting and nurturing peace, sentence which at the end of time Her Lord and Head, and give them the strength to overcome and scatter judge of the universe, will confirm and sanction. all the forces that might compromise its life. Such is the proper and superhuman function of the But the Divine Saviour is also the invisible head Church regarding political questions. What, then, of the Church; and for that reason His mission of is the meaning of that empty phrase about a neutrality peace lives on and is active in the Church. Every which the church should abandon? year, with the renewed memory of Christ's birth, is The Church does not judge according to purely renewed, in her deep consciousness of her title to political norms. contribute to the work of peace, a unique title which Others, on the contrary, in the interests of peace, transcends every earthly tning and stems immediately demand the neutrality of the Church. But neither from God, an essential element of her nature and have these a correct idea of the place of the Church of her religious power. in the midst of the world's great events. This year, once more, the Church kneels before She cannot come down from the lofty supernatural the crib and receives her mission from the Divine sphere where political neutrality has no meaning, in Infant, the Prince of Peace. At His side she sees the sense in which this concept is applied to earthly revealed true human nature, true in the fullest sense powers. This does not exclude, but rather increases, of the word, for it is the very human nature of God, her share in the toils and sufferings of her divided her Creator, her Redeemer, her Restorer. With eyes members in either camp, and intensifies her grief at tenderly fixed on the face of the infinitely lovable the dash of opinions and desires in her own ranks. Prince of Peace, she listens to the heart beats which The Church cannot consent to judge according to tell of a love embracing all mankind, and is inflamed exclusively political norms; she cannot tie the interests with ardent zeal for this mission of her Lord and of religion to particular policies of a purely earthly Chief, which is also her own, the mission of a peace­ scope; she cannot run the risk of giving any reason maker. for doubting about her religious character; she can­ Consciousness of this mission has always been keen not forget for an instant that her role of representa­ and effectively active in the Church, especially in her tive of God on earth does not permit her to remain supreme leaders, the Roman Pontiffs. Justly then, indifferent, even for a single moment, between "good" Our great predecessor, Leo XIII, recalled to the and "evil" in human affairs. If that were asked of world the peacemaking activity of the Popes when he her, she would have to refuse, and the faithful on said in 1899, on the eve of the first conference for both sides would, in virtue of their supernatural faith peace: CtAnd what inspired them (the Bishops of and hope, have to understand and respect her stand. Rome) was the consciousness of a very lofty mission,

[4] CATHOLIC ACTION the prompting of a spiritual fatherhood which makes human nature a single unit implying equal personal men brothers and saves them." (Allocution to the dignity in all men, or human nature as found in College of Cardinals, April 11, 1899. Acta of Leo multiple particular societies, especially those societies XIII, Vol. XIX, Rome, 1900, p. 271). And today, which, within the fundamental unity of human nature, as We have said, the same is true. are necessary to effect, or at least perfect, external But when the Church and her Supreme Pastor order and sound organization. pass from this sweet intimacy of the Babe of Beth­ Society of states lehem, so peaceful and heartwarming, into a world that is far from Christ, it is like stepping out into a And here we have in mind primarily the family and gust of freezing air. That world talks nothing but the state, as well as the society of states, since the peace; but it has no peace. It claims for itself all common good, the essential purpose of every state, possible and impossible legal titles to establish cannot be attained or even imagined without this peace, yet does not know or does not recognize the intrinsic relation of the states to the human race as mission of peacemaker that comes directly from God, a whole. Under this aspect the indissoluble union of the mission of peace deriving from the religious states is demanded by nature. It is a fact which is authority of the Church. imposed upon them. And in consent to it, although Poor short-sighted men, whose little field of vision sometimes hesitantly, they answer the voice of nature. does not go beyond the possibilities of the present This natural union they strive to embody in an external hour, beyond statistics of military and economic po­ stable framework, an organization. tential. How can they form the slightest idea of the As human experience teaches them, the state and worth and importance of religious authority for the the society of states with its external organization, solution of the peace problem? Superficial minds, in spite of all their defects, are naturally, given the unable to see in all their reality and fullness the value social nature of man, forms of union and order among and the creative power of Christianity, how can they men; they are necessary for human life; they contribute help being skeptical and disdainful of the power of to its perfection. Their very concept involves the the Church for peace? But others, and please God tranquility of order, that tranqttillitas ordinis which they are the majority, will see with more or less St. Augustine gives as a definition of peace. These awareness that denying to the religious authority of societies of their very essence exist for peace. the Church her competence in effective action for the With them, as societies which exist for maintaining peace has but made more desperate the tragic condi­ peace, Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace-and with tion of the troubled modern world. Him the Church in whom He continues to live-has The defection of many from Christian belief had entered into a new and intimate relationship which hastened this extreme and almost intolerable state of elevates and strengthens society. This is the basis for affairs. And one would say that God has answered the singular contribution which the Church by her this rejection of Christ by the plague of a permanent very nature makes to the cause of peace-that is, when menace to peace and the frightening specter of war. her life and her action among men occupy the place Just as the Church's right to work for peace is that is their due. unique, so is the worth of her contribution to the same And how will all this come about, except through cause. the continuous, enlightening and strengthening action of the Grace of Christ on the minds and hearts of Relations of the Church with states. citizens and statesmen, so that in all human relati n­ The Church is not a political, but a religious society. ships they recognize and pursue the purposes of the That, however, does not prevent her from assuming Creator, that they strive to enlist the collaboration ot not merely external but internal and vital relations individuals and nations for effecting these purposes, with states. that within as well as among nations they practice The Church has in fact been founded by Christ as social justice and charity? a society that is visible, and, as such, meets states in If men, obeying the Divine Will, will use that sure the same territory, embraces in her solicitude the same way of salvation, a perfect Christian order in the people, and in many ways and under different aspects world, they will soon see the possibility of even a just makes use of the same means and the same institu­ war practically disappear. For there will be no rea­ tions. son for such a war, once the activity of the society of And since the Church and the states live together, states, as a genuine organization for peace, is made beside these external and what might be called natural secure. relations, there are others, too, interior and vital rela­ tions, which have their principle and origin in the What is the practical contribution the Church makes to person of Jesus Christ as Head of the Church. For peace? The Christian order, foundation and the Son of God by becoming man, and truly man, guarantee of peace has by that very fact entered into a new relationship, What We have just said shows clearly Our thought a truly vital relationship, with human society, with in this regard. At the crib of the Divine Prince of human nature. And this is true whether we consider Tum to pa~:e 18

JANUARY, 1952 [5] Convert Work Some P~J,aetitx.d $~ ~ B~e.U

Rev. Benjamin F. Bowling, C.S.P. Almost a year ago CATHOLIC ACTION, in carrying an version. We should certainly be as conscientious article on the Baltimore Catholic Information Center by about our appointments as the doctor or lawyer is Father Bowling, promised some concrete suggestions from about his. Let not the "children of this world" put him at a later date for lay groups wishing to undertake convert work. We are happy to be able now to keep that to shame the "children of light." prom1se.-The Ed1tor. Arguments. Be prepared for some converts put­ ting up a real argument on different points of doc­ First Impressions. So very much depends upon the trine. Don't argue. Arguments generate more heat impression given the prospective convert on his first than light! Handle their arguments as you would visit. Remember it may have taken him years and a "line drive" in baseball. "Give" with it. Admit a hard struggle to get there so do all you can to put any and all truth in it. Go out of your way to find him at ease and make his first visit a happy one. something worth while in what they say. Then build Friendly receptionists and kindly and tactful house­ on this truth and show how its source is in the fulness keepers can help so much here. (Couldn't we do of Catholic doctrine. something about the snapping turtles in some rec­ Record Cards. Keep a personal card of each one tories! They are terrors over the phone and holy under instruction, with name, address, religion, edu­ terrors face to face. No wonder some converts never cation, marriage status, and contact with Church. venture further than the front door!) Assure the Have printed or mimeographed on th back of the visitor that his coming puts him under no obligation card the list of the lectures to be given and check of any kind whatever; that he is just as free during them off as given. For public classes give a card with and after the course of instructions as he was before; the list of lectures to each one and before each class that he is fr e to ask any questions or none, and that have them check off that lecture. Thus converts can no offense will ever be taken. make up the lectures they miss, and key lectures are Tell him with a smile that if the Catholic Church not overlooked. were anything like many people think it is, you, too, would have nothing to do with it. Above all, assure Prayer. Urge converts to pray daily for light to see him that no beautiful, helpful truth in his own faith and grace to accept all God's Truth! Urge them to seek will ever be challenged, but rather strengthened and God's divine compass rather than their own "cafeteria confirmed and enriched by being placed in its original tnethod" in religion. "Not what I think or feel about setting whence it was taken in the sixteenth century. this doctrine but what God has revealed!" Say a Point out that the spirit of your instructions will be public prayer for light before each lecture. End with positiz'e and constructive, not argumentative and de­ an Our Father and Hail Mary. structive-clearing up errors and half-truths which Exchange mementoes at Mass with your fellow are the cause of most prejudice and misunderstand­ priests for your respective converts. Ask the sisters, ings, and an earnest effort to present the spiritual in­ and especially the cloistered orders, to pray for them. heritance of the old Mother Church of Christianity Get the children in the school to promise one Hail in a kindly Christ-like spirit. Mary each day to bring in one new convert to Our Appointments. Always make appointments definite Lord. And tell them when they come in!!! In one in time and place. Asking non-Catholics to come city some 50,000 parochial children said a Hail Mary back at "some other time," or "when Father So and each day for conversions and hailed each new convert So returns," or "when the new class begins in the fall" as their spiritual child! is often fatal. Although it isn't always satisfactory, Personal Interviews. If converts are in a class, be let new converts join the class at any time. It's better sure to have a few personal interviews with each one than running the risk of making them wait. before reception, giving each a chance to talk over Keeping Appointments. Get name, address and his own personal problems. Some instructors make phone numbers on that first visit, and give them yours. a point of seeing one or two personally after class Explain that sometimes it may be necessary for one each evening. or the other of you to cancel the appointment, and Group Reception. Have a group reception when­ you would not want to disappoint. Missing appoint­ ever possible with solemn profession f Faith at the ments has been the death of many a promising con- altar rail. The Profession in the back of the "Cate-

[6] CATHOLIC ACTION chism for Inquirers," by Malloy, can be used for this, Communion, inviting their Catholic friends to receive thus giving each one a copy. Explain Extra ecclesia with them and having a Communion breakfast after­ nulla salus. Let everyone make this profession in­ wards. Some priests arrange to say a special Mass cluding those to be baptized absolutely. (One can for their converts and attend their Communion break­ have the intention of not including them in the Con­ fast afterwards. But whatever you do, don't let any ditional absolution at the end.) convert be an orphan on his First Communion day and Parents and Friends. Urge converts to bring their receive alone in some strange church. parents and friends to the baptism, and make a little Follow-Up Work. Keep a card index file of your talk before the ceremony largely for their benefit. converts, noting especially the date of their baptism Make a point of meeting relatives and friends and and First Communion. A postcard or note on their giving them a friendly greeting. anniversary or at Christmas time may mean a little Explain the rite and ceremony of baptism as you extra effort on the part of the priest but it pays good go along. Some rubricists may frown at this, but dividends (and I do mean spiritual!). Time and after all, isn't it more the mind of the Church for again it has happened that a remembrance from their the catechumens and their friends to know and under­ Spiritual Father gives converts the courage to come stand the beautiful symbolism of the Sacrament? to him in trouble and straighten out their difficulties. Baptismal Certificate. Have a nice baptismal cer­ Advance lectures for converts are being arranged in tificate and a little personal gift for each convert. some of our cities, together with a letter of introduc­ This means a lot coming from the priest who in­ tion to their respective pastors with a request that structed them. the new convert be affiliated with his parochial activi­ Confessional. Before reception it is well that each ties. Other priests once or twice a year have a reunion convert should take a look inside the confessional for their converts and conduct an informal question box and discussion. Frankly, however, most of us (this g~nerally comes _in the tour of the Church). Otherwise--strange as 1t may seem to a born Catholic are remiss in our follow-up work with the newly -going into a darkened confessional and not know­ baptized. As one convert complained, "Father, every­ ing quite what to expect causes real apprehension for thing new gets a follow-up service these days except many converts and sometimes keeps them away from converts ! " confession for a long time afterwards. Warn Against "Feelings" In Religion, periods of Confessors. Let converts know that they are free dryness, apparent loss of Faith, etc. Like the dear to make their confession to anyone they like. Like old colored man, many converts expect to have always Catholics born in the Faith, some will prefer to come "a nice warm feeling aroun' the heart." Assure them to the priest they know-in this case the instructor­ that the Holy Father, the bishop and even their in­ or to someone else. The simplest way is to have a structor go through periods of spiritual aridity! kindly confessor-handpicked !-go into one of the Why I Want To Be a Catholic, Father John Keat­ confessional boxes after the baptism of the converts ing, C.S.P., of the Information Center in New York, and let them go to him or you as they wish. After suggests having converts, at the end of their course, twenty-five years of experience, I urge against turn­ write a short summary of the reasons why they wish ing converts loose after their baptism and telling them to become a Catholic. He finds that this helps the to go to confession at their convenience. I have come convert to reflect deeply upon the reasons for his across converts from three to six months after their conversion and also gives his instructor a better baptism, who still hadn't made their first confession! spiritual insight or understanding of the convert's Many of us think that it is a good idea even for those motives. Even for those who do not come in, it who have been baptized absolutely to make a general seems a good plan to suggest that they write a short confession of devotion, letting them know, of course, summary of what they got from the course with a that it is not an obligation but only to give them the statement of the truths that they still cannot accept. personal satisfaction of a "general clearance" for the Personally, I think it is a wonderful idea and I would past along with the practical advice of the priest which suggest that every convert would keep this summary is frequently very helpful for them in the future. of his reasons for becoming a Catholic and read them Sponsors. One sponsor is sufficient for an adult over periodically, especially in times of stress and although two are permissible. Be sure he or she discouragement. is a practical Catholic and will be a help to the con­ Form Good Catholic Habits Early. Remind every vert. It is often helpful to get someone near their convert that for many years they have not been in the own age and who lives in their neighborhood, and habit of going to Mass each Sunday, receiving Holy who will thus act as a kind of Big Brother or Sister Communion frequently, and being faithful to certain to the convert, going with them to their First Com­ definite prayers. Make them realize that unless they munion and assisting in the adjustment to his new life form contrary habits and form them firmly and deeply and surroundings. early in their Catholic life it will be very easy for First Communion. Whenever possible, urge con- them to slip back into their old life-long habits of verts to have a little celebration for their first Holy Turn to page 11

JANUARY, 1952 [7] Catholic Press Responsibility To the Community John V. R. Lebkicher -71w, eaJ~uJ,u; aJ, the e~ Article V

HE Catholic press, like the Catholic person, the community. There are certain things which lay­ has an obligation to work for the welfare of the men are competent to do. One of them is to bring T community. But it is an obligation that is notal­ about the reconstruction of the social order, for which ways recognized and honored, since it is not always Leo XIII called sixty years ago and for which the need understood. In this article we shall attempt to show has since become ever more pressing. Social recon­ what the community responsibilties of the Catholic struction cannot be achieved merely by orders from press are, how they arise and how they can be fulfilled. above. It must also proceed from the bottom up. That Catholics have a real duty to promote the That is, the reconstruction of the constituent com­ public welfare is evident. It arises from the injunc­ munities must be accomplished before society itself as tion of the Second Commandment, which tells us to a whole can be reformed. love our neighbor. It also results from the demands In spite of their clear obligations, Catholics today of charity, which Saint Thomas has listed for us. are confronted by two temptations which may lead Charity, he says, first requires that we love God. them to neglect their duties to the community. Faced Secondly, that we love our own souls, for they are with a secular society hostile, or at best indifferent, to the means of our loving God. Next we should love practically all their beliefs and values, they may easily the souls of our neighbors, even preferring their good be led to withdraw from that society. The secular to the good of our own bodies. And finally we must spirit which pervades the modern world is so alien affectionately look after our neighbors' material needs. and repugnant to them, and they feel so powerless to This final precept most of America's Catholics­ overcome it, that they tend to isolate themselves from and non-Catholics, too-have heeded. Their material community life altogether. Banded together in ex­ generosity is legendary. But as for loving their clusive cliques, they may escape from secularism, but neighbors' souls, many Catholics seem to have been they are indeed powerless to combat it. Off by them­ remiss. Catholic efforts to give spiritual aid to their selves, they lead socially sterile lives. neighbors have not been nearly vigorous enough, as Far more common, however, is surrender to the is proven by their neighbors' present mode of life. temptation to go along with the majority, to accept Justice, too, imposes an obligation on Catholics to or compromise with the world's secular standards for work for the common good. They receive the benefits all practical purposes and reserve one's Catholicism for of community life, and in return must contribute some­ Sundays-and then, only for an hour or less. Those thing to it. who succumb to this temptation may participate very Lastly, Catholics are bound by the missionary apos­ actively in community affairs, but they do not do so as tolate of the Church to promote the Christianization oi Catholics in the full sense of the word. Their Catholi­ their communities. For the purpose of the Church is cism is little more than a name: they do almost noth­ not only to form Christian individuals, but Christian ing to change the values of the world they have ac­ institutions and communities as well. cepted or to give spiritual assistance to the persons This duty each Catholic layman has-to concern who inhabit it. himself with the spiritual and material welfare of his The Catholic must neither use secularism as an neighbor-while different in kind from the responsi­ excuse for withdrawing from community life, nor may bility of the priest, is very nearly as important. Fre­ he accept the community's present standards-or quent appeals by all recent Popes urging the laity to rather adjust himself to its lack of standards. His duty participate in the mission of the Church through Cath­ olic Action are eloquent evidence of the fact. It was is to work actively as a Catholic to reform and re­ Pope Pius XI who asserted: "Catholic Action we deem Christianize his community and promote with all his to be as indispensable at the present time as the strength the Christian social order, without which priestly ministry itself; and in it all must cooperate." society as we know it will perish. The sphere in which lay initiative is now most The community responsibility of the Catholic press needed, and in which it is likely to be most effective, is is to assist and support Catholics in their efforts to

[8] CATHOLIC ACTION recast society in a Christian mold. This it can do in two main ways: THE N.C.W.C. Forum Committee, representative .It must point out and explain to Catholics their of the National Catholic Welfare Conference, presents its 1951-52 series of eight articles, month duttes towards the community as they have been dis­ by month, under the general title "The Catholic and cussed above. It should urge and stimulate them to the Community." These have 'been prepared for fulfill those duties. It ought, for example, to show ~en~ral use and should be especially helpful to organ­ Catholics from various walks of life whether and to IZation and educational leaders. what. extent they a~e bound to put into practice the Use the articles: teachmgs of the Soctal Encyclicals and explain to them For your own information. how t~ey can do s.o. It ~h?~ld provide leadership in Fo~ sti.mulating a program of action in your organ­ Catholtc communtty acttvttles, showing what evils IZation. As texts for discussion clubs, forums round tables need to be fought and suggesting means for fighting radio talks. ' ' them. The press also should cooperate with and aid For informal discussion at home and abroad. othe: ~atholic. ~gencies engaged in community work Use the questions at the end as guides for readin1 by gtvtng publtCtty to their efforts and encouragement and discussion. to their members. Reprints of these articles are available. In addition to its duty of informing Catholics of their social responsibilities, there is another function caused by inflation or inadequate labor legislation· the which t~e Catholic press ought to fulfill, one that at problems of world peace and communism. pres~nt 1s almos.t totally neglected. To promote com­ muntty reform 1t should reach, interest and influence A number of important and influential groups are th.e community'~ non-~~tholics. It should present them proposing their own answers to these questions which w1th the Cath~ltc posth?~ on ~arious issues, help them are frequently at variance with Catholic teaching. to understand 1t and soltctt thetr support for it. The re­ Catholics are not going to have any decisive effect on action of non-Catholics to General Mark Clark's nom­ the solution of these problems unless they propose ination as United States ambassador to the Holy See conc~ete solutions in line with Catholic principles. and to recent Papal pronouncements on obstetrical It mtght be stated here that the Catholic press as a practice are but two of many instances showing that whole has to date used too much space on a general they do not now understand the Church's position and attack on communism and too little on the problems need to have it explained to them. it purports to solve. For such purposes the press is the chief means of To take a specific stand on many of these issues­ communicating with non-Catholics. But before the such as opposing racial discrimination-may involve ~ress can effectively perform this function, two ques­ offending the prejudices of some readers. Yet if the tions mus~ be an~wered: How can the Catholic press press takes it as its rule not to offend readers, it easily be made tnteresttng to non-Catholics in order to in­ falls into the habit of failing to report the truths that fluence them? How put into non-Catholics' hands? displease them. Failure to report the truth is the very best way for the Catholic press to lose all influence. To int~rest non-Catholic re~ders the Catholic press must provtde a~curate. a~d obJective reporting of the The best way, in effect, for the Catholic pre s to problems affectmg reltg10n and community life and attract non-Catholic readers is by becoming truly present a clear statement of the principles governing Catholic. Catholicism by its very nature reaches out their solution. to embrace the whole of mankind and all its problems. The press then must broaden its horizons and concern It will entail, however, more than a mere statement itself with and report news of interest to the whole of principles. It will mean taking specific stands on community. The lack of a universal outlook on the concre~e issues. Th7 Chur~h has a positive program part of Catholics has been scored by Archbishop for soctal reconstr~ct10n wh1eh must be applied and, so Richard J. Cushing of Boston as follows: ~ar as non-CatholKs are concern~d, the Catholic press 1s the best agency for forwardmg such application. "All too often our parishes are far from possessing That press must not take refuge in the so-called "do­ the truly Catholic concept of the term as it was used in main of principles" when real and urgent problems the Middle Ages ... the element of all-embracing­ confront the community. If people are faced by real ness has long since been forgotten . . . The parish is a sort of spiritual club, the membership of which is problems they want real solutions, not generalized composed of chosen adherents within a given area, appeals to abstract principles, however applicable. who live their lives together and ignore all other in­ Among the more serious problems which the press habitants of the area." must reckon with today are racial discrimination; im­ The Catholic press ought also to adopt a more morality and racketeering in public life, recently truly Catholic system of values. It should never give scored by the Bishops of the United States in their the impression, as it sometimes does at present, that annual statement; poverty and the existence of slums; an event affecting the fate of millions, or even hun­ juvenile delinquency; economic injustices, such as those dreds, of people is less important to it than the appoint-

JANUARY, 1952 [9] ment of a new pastor to a local church, or similar those who are to receive periodicals should be based minor "Catholic" occurrences. Above all, it must never on two criteria. First they ought to be persons of some appear to be interested only in the rights of Catholics. influence in the community. Since the Catholic press It should be the champion of justice for all. cannot be supplied to all non-Catholics, it seems only It should always treat the problems of non-Catho­ reasonable to supply it to those who, if influenced by lics with sympathy and understanding. It must avoid it themselves, can pass on that influence to others. even the appearance of the bigotry it condemns in They ought also to be persons who can reasonably others and never be narrowly partisan. be expected to give Catholic opinion a sympathetic Lastly, the Catholic press must show non-Catholics hearing. It would be worse than useless to try to that it is doing an important job that no one else is appeal in this way to known anti-Catholics or to those doing, and doing it well. It must demonstrate that it who would be likely to consider it an effort to exert is the press that is most alert to the dangers to religion, undue pressure on them. It would generally be best and therefore to the community and themselves. It has to have a member of the parish press group ask a per­ to present the best analyses of those threats and, as son who has been considered a likely recipient whether emphasized above, propose the most efficacious steps or not he would be interested in a subscription to a to overcome or avoid them. This it can do if it prop­ Catholic periodical. If possible, the member should erly understands and presents the social teachings of be someone who knows the prospect personally. the Church, which alone can be of real help in com­ Personal contact is very important for the success bating the evils of today's secularist world. of this plan and ought to be followed up. Members Since the press is the most efficient means of dis­ of the parish group running the project should make seminating that teaching, it must be used properly and periodic checks of those receiving subscriptions. These forcefully. It is not to be expected that non-Catholics persons ought to be asked if they are getting the will always agree with or support the analyses and periodical and if they actually read it. If they do, they solutions to community problems it presents. But they should be invited to express their opinion of it, to will at least be informed of the stand taken by a large criticize it and make other observations and sugges­ minority of their fellow Americans. Without that tions. Such remarks should be forwarded to the knowledge they will themselves be at a disadvantage periodical's editor to let him know how his work is in proposing their own solutions. It appears, then, affecting non-Catholic readers. that if the Catholic press does its job well, it cannot In order to reach as many non-Catholics as possible fail to attract the interest of non-Catholic readers and with a minimum of expenditure of money, the news­ influence them, at least to the extent that they will papers and magazines subscribed to should not be sent take the Catholic position into account when tackling to one person for much longer than six months. In community problems. that time a person receiving a periodical can be ex­ The principal condition for influencing readers is pected either to lose interest or subscribe himself. to have them. All the above suggestions will be use­ As can be seen, the successful operation of this less unless efficient means can be found to put the scheme will require the expenditure of both time and Catholic press into the hands of non-Catholics. This money. But the needed investment of money is quite is a responsibility which will have to be accepted by small and the possible returns are great. If the laity some parish or diocesan organization. The press itself does not operate at the community level except in a is informed of the possibility of such returns by pastors few of the larger See cities, and even there it is usually and the press itself, there is probably not one parish understaffed. So it cannot itself undertake this task. in the country that could not put the plan into effect, at least on a limited scale. Seeing to it that the Catholic press reaches non­ Catholic readers can be made an additional function QUESTIONS of an already existing parish group, such as the Holy 1. What are the community responsibilities of the Catholic Name Society or Sodality. Even better, a new organi­ press? zation might be formed to handle this and other parish activities related to the press. 2. How can it fulfill them? Perhaps the best way for such a parish press group 3. How can the Catholic press attract non-Catholic readers? to operate is the following: Sufficient money should 4. How can it reach them? be raised to buy a number of subscriptions to the local diocesan newspaper and several subscriptions to na­ BIBLIOGRAPHY tional Catholic magazines which include opinion. The Catholic Social Principles, Rev. John F. Cronin, S.S., Ph.D., number of subscriptions to be bought will vary accord­ Bruce Publishing Company, Milwaukee, 1950. ing to the community's size and the parish's resources. A Free and Responsible Press, Commission on Freedom of These subscriptions should then be sent to a num­ the Press, University of Chicago Press, Chicago, 1947. ber of carefully selected non-Catholics. Selection of Catholic periodicals: America, Commonweal, Catholic Mind.

[ 10] CATHOLIC ACTION Convert Work The proportion of unworthy followers of Christ h~s (Continued from page 7) never been so high in any period of the Church's hls­ t ry. The wonder i that taken as they are from ;:ot doing these things. Impress upon their minds, every walk of life, His representatives on the whole therefore, that spiritual, like natural habits, are second have been so faithful to the ideals of the Master. nature. If each day their morning and evening As a dear old priest once said to his congregation, prayers are a part of their daily schedule, if each "One of the greatest proofs that the Church is divine, week their Sunday Mass is the most important thing is the priesthood. It has stood us all these years and of that day, accompanied whenever possible, by the still goes on." Then he added with a chuc~l~, ."There reception of Our Lord in Holy Communion, then is only one other greater proof of Her d1v1n1ty they need have no worry about their final perse­ It bas survived you folks, also!" verance in the Faith. The Apostolate to non-Catholics requires much Human Elements In Church. Finally, it is well to time. It requires great patience, kindness, and un­ remind our converts that while the Church is divine, derstanding, but it pays great spiritual dividends. those within the Church are only human with human The realization that with all our faults and failings faults and failings. Christ did not guarantee the we have been in part the human channels through conduct but the teachings of His followers. There which God has granted to hundreds of men and wo­ were twelve apostles and yet one-twelfth of these men, and through them to thousands of others, the betrayed Him, another twelfth denied Him and the Blessed Gift of Faith,-this is truly a reward to spur other ten-twelfths deserted Him in His hour of trial. us to greater effort.

Calendar of Scheduled Catholic Meetings and Events Janllary, 1952 9-SOLEMN IN TALLATION OF THE MosT REv. JoHN F. O'HARA, C.S.C., as Archbishop of Philadelphia 16-SOLEMN INSTALLATION OF THE MosT REV. HuGH L. LAMB as Bishop of the new Diocese of Greensburg Febmary, 1952 10-16-CATHOLIC BIBLE WEEK March, 1952 24-26-NATIONAL CATHOLIC CoNFERENCE ON FAMILY LIFE-annual national meeting, Columbus, Ohio

April, 1952 15-18-NATIONAL CATHOLIC EDUCATIONAL AssociATION-49th annual convention, Kansas City, Mo 19-20-NATIONAL CouNCIL OF CATHOLIC MEN-annual meeting, Toledo, 0.

May, 1952 2-4--CONFRATERNITY OF CHRISTIAN DocTRINE-regional congre s for Province of Baltimore, Durham, N. Car. 11-13-CHRIST CHILD SociETY-biennial convention, Washington, D. C.

June, 1952 6-8-NATIONAL CATHOLIC LAYMEN's RETREAT CoNFERENCE-14th biennial national convention, Chicago, Ill.

July, 1952 6-10--KNIGHTS OF ST. JoHN AND SuPREME LADIEs' AUXILIARY-supreme convention, Indianapolis, Ind.

August, 1952 19-24-INTERNATIONAL FEDERATION OF CATHOLIC ALUMNAE-19th convention, New York City. 21-24--CATHOLIC STUDENTS' MISSION CRUSADE-15th national convention, Notre Dame, Ind. September, 1952 20-24-NATIONAL CouNaL OF CATHOLIC WoMEN-26th national meeting, Seattle, Washington November, 1952 7-9-CONFRATERNITY OF CHRISTIAN DocTRINE-regional congress for Province of New Orleans, New Orleans, La.

JANUARY, 1952 [ 11] Ambassadors of Christ-The NATIONAL COUNCIL Christian Way- So r or i t y CATHOLIC WOMEN News- Covington D.C.C.D.

AMBASSADORS OF CHRIST

MAYE KORIOTH

OTHER NATURE set the stage for the Ninth council chairmen covered the points which affect our M National Congress of the Confraternity of program throughout the year. Christian Doctrine when she covered the City The interests of the Work Group mirrored dioc­ of Chicago with snow as if to call to our minds the esan council committee interests, which were found to exhortation, "Lift up your eyes and behold that the be remarkably similar throughout the country. The fields are already white for the harvest." (John 4:35) channels of work make it necessary to remember that And it was a thrilling and exciting sight to see the the purpose of the Confraternity of Christian Doctrine vast crowd as it assembled to study and learn from is religious education outside the Catholic school one another how each may serve to "restore all things system-from the cradle to the grave. To cooperate in Christ." in this program in the diocese the approach is through We were welcomed to Chicago and the great Con­ the diocesan director of the Confraternity under whose gress by His Eminence Samuel Cardinal Stritch. The direction the work, which he has outlined in conform­ challenge to the Confraternity was the theme "To ity with the wishes of the Ordinary, is accomplished. restore all things in Christ." The speakers of the The success of the diocesan program will be measured opening session were introduced by Most Rev. Edwin by the understanding of the program. It is the only V. O'Hara, Bishop of Kansas City and chairman of way in which the full strength of the entire diocesan the Episcopal Committee of the Confraternity of council can be used. There is work for every single hristian Doctrine. Officers of the National Council member if the diocesan chairman understands and of Catholic Women took a prominent part in the knows how to use the Confraternity aids. meeting. The National President, Mrs. Gerald B. The spiritual privileges attached to canonical erec­ Bennett, spoke at the Good Neighbor Apostolate ses­ tion of the Confraternity of Christian Doctrine in the sion on "Gaining Good Will via the Pen and Press" parish give each member an added interest in the and Mrs. J. Selby Spurck, past national vice-president, program. Here also may the diocesan chairman took part in the session on Lay Participation in Con­ assist in interpreting these privileges to the deanery fraternity Programs. Many other women active in or district chairmen that all may share in the bounty both N.C.C.W. and C.C.D. in their own areas con­ of the Church. tributed to the program. So many aids arc offered in the Parent-Educator As National Chairman of the N.C.C.W. Com­ program for the parents of the pre-school child. In mittee on Cooperating with the Confraternity of many regions it is the answer for the before-Vacation­ Christian Doctrine it was my privilege to act as chair­ School children from mixed marriage homes. An man of the Work Group on this committee which alert chairman who is familiar with every phase of the met during the Congress. Our Work Group got under program and all the aids it offers will see to it that way even before the official opening of the Congress, the needs of all are met in the way most suited to that and in retrospect, it seems fitting that we assembled group. and called ourselves together with a purpose, for as The program of all-year religious instruction to the Congress moved on we began to see how much we pupils attending public schools, and of religious va­ in the National Council of Catholic Women might cation schools for those attending only the vacation help in the greatest work of the Church. Our N~­ school, needs the hand and heart of every mother as tional Vice-Chairman, Mrs. James P. Charles; di­ fisher, helper, or teacher. ocesan council presidents; diocesan committee chair­ As our Work Group met and discussed its prob­ men; and other Council representatives participated in lems, it was a wonderful experience to be able to the Work Group. Our resource people were Miss step from this group into a session of the Congress Miriam Marks, executive secretary of the Confrater­ where each of the problems was a topic developed by nity of Christian Doctrine, and Miss Catherine Jarboe, experts in that field and, in the discussion, adapted to national committee secretary, N.C.C.W. The agenda different areas of the country. As the members of the which was prepared in cooperation with diocesan Work Group returned to it they brought new ap-

[ 12] CATHOLIC ACTION proaches, more knowledge, and renewed determina­ glory of our Faith. The knowledge of the Mid-Cen­ tion to give to their Councils more willingness and tury Confraternity Survey burned in our minds. These patience that all may share in God's Kingdom. They grave findings set the pattern of the work to be done. brought, too, many valuable suggestions to be passed Here indeed is our challenge, for on its pages is the along to the members at home. Among these were count, for every part of our nation, of the Catholic religious libraries, resource materials for religious children attending public school, many with no re­ study groups, and bookmobiles-from push carts for ligious instruction. Why? Because there are not the church-door library to regular bookmobiles for enough hands to do the work. We were told that parishes where the membership is scattered over wide there is an immediate need for 100,000 volunteers to areas, and back to the well regulated pamphlet rack help provide religious instruction for a million and a where pamphlets may be borrowed or purchased. half Catholic children in public elementary schools Each one privileged to participate in the Congress who are not attending Confraternity classes. Women began to feel a personal responsibility for souls not of N.C.C.W., these are our children! receiving religious instruction. Listening and learn­ On the final day of the Congress, Most Rev. Am­ ing as the five short days passed, our hearts were leto Giovanni Cicognani, Apostolic Delegate to the filled to overflowing with the burning desire to spend United States, closed his address with this plea, "Let our days in Christ's work. We were moved by Fulton all, both priests and laity, make the resolution of this Oursler, author of T be Greatest Story Evet' Told, to Congress their motto, 'an active Confraternity of feel that we must rush out with John and Andrew to tell all men that "we have found Him Whom we Christian Doctrine in every parish and a catechism in sought." The eloquent address of Bishop Fulton every home.' " Sheen on the last day brought to us more forcibly the We have heard, let us heed the call!

THE CHRISTIAN WAY-GENERAL THEME OF D.C.C.W. CONVENTIONS Little Rock . . . "Catholic Action is seeking to bring and David Doyle, assistant director, N.C.W.C. Legal souls to Christ," His Eminence, Samuel Cardinal Department. Stritch, Archbishop of Chicago, told the women at­ Hartford ... In his sermon at the Mass opening the tending the Little Rock D.C.C.W. convention, October annual convention of the Hartford D.C.C.W., October 15-16. His Eminence was among the nine members 20, Rev. John J. Griffin told the women to turn to of the Hierarchy present at the convention. Most Rev. Mary whose title "Queen of Mercy" most properly Joseph F. Rummel, Archbishop of New Orleans, expresses her relationship to us. Most Rev. Hen~~ J. stressed the responsibility of women in home and O'Brien, Bishop of Hartford, called for a recogmtton family life. The Ordinary of the Diocese, Most Rev. of the importance of the work of laymen today. Sr. Albert L. Fletcher, discussed the work of the Confra­ Mary Rita, a Maryknoll nun recently returned f~om ternity of Christian Doctrine and the Family Rosary Communist China, also addressed the convent10n. Crusade to be held in the Diocese. Mrs. Aynaud F. Mrs. Robert Mahoney continues as president. Hebert, national director, Province of New Orleans, spoke on the value of the Diocesan Council. Dr. Omaha ... Over 850 women and clergy attended the Frances Rothert was reelected president. Omaha A.C.C.W. convention, October 22, at which Mrs. D. E. Mitchell was reelected president. Most Los Angeles ... "The World of Today and the Lay Rev. Gerald T. Bergan, Archbishop of Omaha, was Apostolate" was the theme of the 4th annual confer­ celebrant of the opening Mass and later addressed the ence of the Los Angeles A.C.C.W., October 16. The meeting on the convention theme, "Living wit~ conference opened with Mass celebrated by Most Rev. Christ." Round table discussions and deanery counct1 Timothy Manning, Auxiliary Bishop of Los Angeles. reports under the caption "What is New in Your Speakers included Rt. Rev. Msgr. Patrick J. Dignan, Deanery?" were features of the convention. The ~oun­ archdiocesan superintendent of schools, and Rev. Rob­ cil' s part in bel ping to correct some of the evxl.s of ert Coerver, C.M. Mrs. Joseph J. Schlarb was elected today was shown through a panel "Serving Chnst­ president, succeeding Mrs. R. Calvert Haws. ln the Home, In the School, In Business, In the Coun­ Paterson ... The 7th annual convention of the Pater­ cil." Mrs. John Hopkins, national president, Christ son D.C.C.W., held October 17, reelected Mrs. Leo Child Society, brought a message from N.C.C.W. E. Sweeney president. Pointing up the convention Rochester ... "Vital Home Life" was the theme of theme, "Call to Service," Most Rev. Thomas A. Bo­ the Rochester D.C.C.W. 17th annual convention Oc­ land, Bishop of Paterson, urged the women to do their tober 24. In a panel on "The Christian Family" Mrs. part as good citizens and good Catholics. The open­ John Kennelly, national vice-chairman, Commtttee ~n ing Mass was offered by Rt. Rev. Msgr. John J. Family and Parent Education, spoke on Mothers Ctr­ Shanley, spiritual moderator. Among the speakers cles. Mr. and Mrs. John McCue, exponents of the were Sr. Jane Marie of the Sisters of Charity, one of Christian Family Movement, were also guest speakers. nine nuns expelled from Red China early this year, Mrs. Frank G. Shaughnessy was reelected president.

JANUARY, 1952 [ 13] Belleville ... Most Rev. Albert R. Zuroweste, Bishop November 7-8, opened with Mass offered by Very Rev. of Belleville, addressed the 32nd annual convention of George E. Ryan, spiritual moderator. Most Rev. John the Belleville D.C.C.W., October 25. Rev. Philip J. G. Murray, Archbishop of St. Paul, was honor guest Kenney, consultant, Department of Lay Organizations, at the banquet. Speakers included Miss Margaret N.C.W.C., developed the convention theme, "Wom­ Mealey, executive secretary, N.C.C.W., who reported an's Part in the Work of the Church." Four work­ on the World Congress of the Lay Apostolate which shops were held. Rev. John Fournie, spiritual mod­ she had just attended in Rome; Rev. William F. Kelley, erator, introduced three European teenagers who ex­ S.J., dean of Creighton University; and Lucile Hasley, pressed their gratitude to the Council for homes well known convert author. Mrs. Paul R. Bohen provided them during their year's study in the United continues as president. States. Mrs. Gerard J. Dundon was elected president, New Orleans ... Rt. Rev. Msgr. Charles F. Beauvais, succeeding Mrs. William Bey. spiritual moderator, delivered the keynote address at Lafayette ... Over 600 women participated in the the New Orleans A.C.C.W. 15th annual convention, Lafayette D.C.C.W. convention, October 30, which November 9-11. The theme, "That the Reign of developed the theme, "Action for Christ, Here and Godlessness and Terror may give way to the Reign of Now." Skits, interviews, and round tables were used Christ, the Prince of Peace," was pointed up by Most at the workshops to present the Council's program. Rev. Joseph F. Rummel, Archbishop of New Orleans, Both the Ordinary and the Auxiliary Bishop of La­ in saying: "When the true spirit of Christian charity fayette, Most Rev. Jules B. Jeanmard, and Most Rev. is evidenced in the family circle, it will spread from Maurice Schexnayder, addressed the meeting. Greet­ the home to attain national and global peace." Guest ings from the N.C.C.W. were extended by Mrs. Ay­ speakers included Rev. Joseph W. Buckley, S.M., and naud F. Hebert, New Orleans provincial director. Rt. Rev. Bertin Roll, O.F.M. Cap. Workshops were held Rev. Msgr. Albert Bacque is the newly appointed in seven fields of Council work and resolutions adopted spiritual moderator, succeeding Rt. Rev. Msgr. Louis in support of family life, education, youth, and legis­ H. Boudreaux, and Mrs. J. Patout Burns the newly lation. The A.C.C.W. President, Mrs. Aynaud F. elected president to succeed Miss Lorena Spence. Hebert, who presided during the meeting, continues Santa Fe . . . Strong resolutions in support of the in office. family retreat movement, deploring racial discrimina­ El Paso ... "The Child-Citizen of Two Worlds," tion and injustice, and urging government to act with theme of the El Paso D.C.C.W. convention, held courage to exert that vital moral leadership which November 14-15, was presented in the keynote ad­ alone will stimulate the atmosphere of confidence and dress delivered by Rev. Celestine Zeitler. Very Rev. cooperation essential to the establishment of a just Msgr. Lawrence Gaynor, spiritual moderator, told of and lasting peace were adopted by the Santa Fe the National Youth Convention and the Ninth Na­ A.C.C.W. 20th annual convention, October 30. A tional Catechetical Congress which he had recently telegram approving the appointment of an ambassador attended. Other speakers included Rt. Rev. Msgr. to Vatican City was sent to President Truman. Speak­ H. D. Buchanan and Col. James R. Kelly, dean and ers included Most Rev. Edwin V. Byrne, Archbishop history professor, New Mexico Military Institute. of Santa Fe; Rt. Rev. Msgr. George Rieffer; and Rev. In resolutions adopted the convention pledged con­ Juan Ortega, of Montezuma Seminary, who discussed tinued support of the Bishop's program for youth, "The Revival of Religious Freedom in Mexico." Miss assistance in the federal effort to eliminate the nar­ Kathryn Murphy was reelected president. cotics evil, and encouragement of Catholic women to Natchez ... Most Rev. Richard 0. Gerow, Bishop of exercise their right to vote. Mrs. R. E. Roberson was Natchez, celebrated the Mass opening the 17th an­ reelected president. nual convention of the Natchez D.C.C.W., November Toledo .. . Twenty-five workshops covered every phase 4. His Excellency asked the Council's support of the of Diocesan Council activity when the Toledo Family Rosary Crusade, the work of the Confraternity D.C.C.W. held its 23rd annual convention November of Christian Doctrine, and the youth program. 17. General topics centered about the responsibility Other speakers included Mrs. Aynaud F. Hebert, na­ of the Catholic woman in her home, her community, tional director, Province of New Orleans; Rev. James and her personal and general religious activities. Most Whelan, S.J., chairman of education, Loyola Univer­ Rev. George J. Rehring, Bishop of Toledo, in his sity; and Rev. Francis Woods, associate director, Fam­ address to the 400 women in attendance, pointed out ily Rosary Crusade. The convention program devel­ that mankind improves with the quality of women. oped the theme "The Rosary Crusade, the Christian "The Council," His Excellency said, "provides mutual Counterattack:' Miss Margaret Pitchford, retiring help to members of affiliated groups in their contri­ president, presided. She is succeeded in office by Mrs. bution to God, to themselves, and to their fellowmen." J. W. Mitchell. Mrs. Gerald B. Bennett, national president, described Minnesota ... The 32nd annual convention of the her recent trip to Rome where she represented Minnesota State Council of Catholic Women, held N.C.C.W. at the World Congress of the Lay Apos-

[ 14] CATHOLIC ACTION tolate. Mrs. Michael Geraci, national director, Prov­ ored guests. Mrs. Corrado thanked the Council for ince of Cincinnati, and Mrs. Vincent Corrado, in its cooperation in placing 12 youths in homes of the charge of the German-Austrian teen-age program for Diocese. Mrs. Arthur L. Zepf, president, conducted the N.C.W.C. Education Department, were also hon- all general sessions. SORORITY NEWS Kappa Gamma Pi: The 6500 Catholic women mem­ Theta Phi Alpha: The 1951 Siena Medal of Theta bers of Kappa Gamma Pi are giving special emphasis Phi Alpha was awarded to Miss Anne Laughlin of this year to two national projects promoting morality Topeka, Kansas, in recognition of her outstanding in government and Catholic ideology in literature. contribution to social and humanitarian work. Miss The Listening Post, an apostolate of the mails inaugu­ Laughlin's work in recent years has been with the rated in 1947 to keep leaders in national fields in­ United Nations International Children's Emergency formed about and sensitive to Christian requirements Mission in Bulgaria, and with UNRRA in Holland, for truth and morality, is sponsored this year by the Belgium and Ethiopia, where she received the Washington, D.C., Chapter. , The Louisville Chapter country's highest honor from Emperor Haile Selassie. is sponsor of the twentieth annual KGP short story Mrs. Carl J. Steigerwald, president of Theta Phi contest. Entries must reflect sound Catholic thought AI pha, represented the sorority at the National Pan­ applied to some problem or circumstance of life. h llenic Conference held in Williamsburg, Va., No­ Competition is open to undergraduates of the Society's vember 27-December 2, in celebration of the 175th 89 affiliated colleges throughout the United States, anniversary of the founding of the first Greek letter Canada and Puerto Rico. society, Phi Beta Kappa, at William and Mary College. FIRST IN KENTUCKY-THE COVINGTON D.C.C.W. ' 'TH~RE is a great need for organizing our Cath­ Iovine, president, Mountain Mission Deanery Council; olK women on a diocesan basis" ... "Projects Mrs. John Weidel, president, Newport Deanery Coun­ that face us for the future call loudly" ... cil; Mrs. Edward Bodde, president, Campbell County "All of us are eager that our Diocese attain its full Deanery Council; Mrs. Robert Haglage, president, stature. A diocesan unit of the National Council of Covington Deanery Council; Mrs. Charles Bogen­ Catholic Women can help attain that goal." schutz, president, Kenton County Deanery Council; These excerpts are from the letter of Most Rev. and Mrs. Margretta Teubert, president, Maysville William T. Mulloy, Bishop of Covington, read in all Deanery Council. the churches of the Diocese on Sunday, October 21. The Organization Meeting of the Diocesan Coun­ The letter made clear the urgent needs of the Diocese cil was held on November 12 in Lexington. The day and asked the help of organized laity in the vast mis­ began with Pontifical Mass celebrated by Bishop Mul­ sion areas in increasing religious vocations, in cooperat­ loy in St. Peter's Church. Most Rev. Sidney M. Metz­ ing with Catholic Charities and the Confraternity of ger, Bishop of El Paso, was speaker for the occasion. Christian Doctrine, in spreading Catholic teaching His Excellency congratulated the women of the Diocese through increased subscriptions to the diocesan paper. on their opportunity to work for the Church through This letter listed, too, a series of deanery meetings the Diocesan Council and admonished them to enter through which the organization of a diocesan council upon this work with zeal and energy so that the new of Catholic women might be accomplished. Council would not be a "paper organization," but a Accordingly, beginning October 24, meetings were living, vital force for the Church in the Diocese. held in Lexington to organize the Lexington and An overflow crowd of more than 500 attended the Mountain Mission Deanery Councils; in Newport, the luncheon and the open afternoon meeting. Women Newport and Campbell County Deanery Councils; came from all over the vast Diocese in chartered buses, in Covington, the Covington and Kenton County on trains, in cars, and were an enthusiastic audience for Deanery Councils; and in Maysville, the Maysville Mrs. James Willard, 1st vice-president of the National Deanery Council. Council of Catholic Women and "neighbor from 200 Each meeting was addressed by Bishop Mulloy, miles down the road," Knoxville, Tennessee. who described the soon-to-be-organized Covington DiJ In a stirring address, Bishop Mulloy outlined the ocesan Council of Catholic Women as a Catholic AcJ duties of Catholic women today and called on the tion organization for the women of the Diocese; by women in his Diocese to take their place among the Reverend Urban Horstman, spiritual moderator of the united Catholic women of the country in meeting the new Council, who told of the value of a diocesan urgent needs of the times. His Excellency appointed council; and by Miss Mary Donohoe, affiliations Mrs. Louis Muth president of the Covington D.C.C.W. secretary of the National Council of Catholic Women. and named chairmen for the Committees on Cooperat­ Miss Donohoe described the organizational set-up of ing with the Confraternity of Christian Doctrine, Co­ the national and diocesan councils. operating with Catholic Charities, Youth, Spiritual Officers of the various deanery councils were se­ Development, Libraries and Literature, Rural Life, lected at each meeting. These included Mrs. J. R. and Public Relations. JANUARY, 1952 [ 15] NATIONAL COUNCIL Annual Meeting - "Front-line Catholic Action" - Information CATHOLIC MEN Service - Radio - Television

APRIL 19-20-ANNUAL MEETING DATE FOR 1952

HE 1952 Annual Meeting of N.C.C.M.-April Church and to the common ideals of civilized hu­ T 19-20--will be in Toledo, Ohio, according to manity. a resolution of the Executive Committee which "And, in view of the fact that there are indications met in Washington, December 15. The Committee of extreme indifference to this frightful persecution accepted unanimously an invitation by the Toledo and an apparent futility of human means to stop it, Diocesan Council of Catholic Men to meet in the we know that there is but one continuing recourse, Ohio city. when we are seemingly alone. That is to seek more James P. Lavey, Sr., Milan, Ohio, is president of diligently and fervently the help of the Lord-of the Toledo D.C.C.M, Rev. Lawrence J. Ernst is Christ Who said, 'Behold I am with you all days even moderator. to the consummation of the· world.' The Committee voted to accept requests for affilia­ "That God Our Father will give light and strength tion from coordinating committees of New York and and solace to His persecuted children, open the eyes Steubenville, Ohio, the Diocesan Council of Catholic of apathetic nations and convert the persecutors them­ Men of Wheeling, West Va., and from the First selves, the Bishops of the United States have pro­ Catholic Slovak Union of the United States. claimed December thirtieth as a national day of The Committee adopted a resolution calling upon prayer, asking that all Catholics mobilize the power all Catholic men in the United States to take part in a of prayer in reparation and mourning as a demonstra­ day of special prayer, December 30, for persecuted tion of their solidarity with those who suffer for the Catholics behind the Iron Curtain. sake of their faith. The resolution was adopted "In communion with "THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Na­ the Bishops of the United States, who in general meet­ tional Council of Catholic Men does hereby urge that ing assembled, have testified to the plight of the all Catholic men take active part in this day, cooperat­ 'suffering millions' who are being persecuted for their ing with their hierarchy and clergy and in turn urging faith behind the Iron Curtain of Europe and the others of the faithful to unite in offering prayer and Orient." mortification to those who are giving their lives and The resolution further reads that: "The National blood for Christ and in defense of basic human rights." Council of Catholic Men proclaims its boundless ad­ miration for these Catholic heroes, mourning the Members of the Executive Committee are Stewart martyred dead and offering sympathy and assurance Lynch, Wilmington, Del., president; Francis I. Nally, of its fervent prayers to the Bishops, priests, religious Toledo, vice-president; Albert Sattler, New York, and faithful who, in the midst of this persecution, secretary; and mmet Blaes, Wichita, Kan., former openly profess their loyalty to God, to Christ, to the N.C.C.M. president. "FRONT-LINE CATHOLIC ACTION" J\T the First Annual Convention of the St. Louis licity; Spiritual Activities; Religious Education; and fi Archdiocesan Council of Catholic Men, Novem­ Youth and Family Life. ber 25, under the theme "Front-Line Catholic In his post-convention report, Hon. David A. Mc­ Action" the main emphasis was put on the need of Mullan, president, states that "The return of the 'eval­ getting things done on the parish level. uation slips' indicates that our Catholic men want The St. Louis Council is a federation of existing something to do; they want to find out what is to be organizations, established and affiliated with N.C.C.M. done, and how it may best be accomplished." April 18, 1949. Judge McMullan reported that during the year the Among the most productive items on the conven­ St. Louis A.C.C.M. participated in the Community tion agenda were the afternoon round-table confer­ Conference on Children and Youth; cooperated with ences on eight topics: Organization and Development; the Missouri Association for Social Welfare; with the Radio-Press-Screen; Literature; Social Action; Pub- Red Cross; with the mayor's office on committees study-

[ 16] CATHOLIC ACTION ing problems of human relations and a TV channel in appeared in the December issue of Catholic Men. St. Louis for educational purposes. The A.C.C.M. Officers elected in addition to Judge McMullan are cooperated in the recent religious census in St. Louis. Joseph Reichert, vice president; Henry C. Vogt, re­ In its December bulletin the St. Louis group in­ cording secretary; Elmer S. Rehagen, corresponding cluded a "fact sheet" on the question of a U.S. Am­ secretary; E. Lawrence Helm, treasurer; and Eugene bassador to Vatican City similar to the one which Sullivan, marshal. Rev. Joseph H. Anler is moderator.

A VALUABLE INFORMATION SERVICE SPECIAL "Fact Sheet" service to affiliates and holding up the matter now? What groups are oppos­ others interested, was inaugurated by N.C.C.M. ing it? What is the official Catholic position? A in the December issue of its monthly publication In presenting the Sheets, N.C.C.M. envisages a Catholic Men. group of men, after a meeting-or gathered together The December Fact Sheet, entitled .. U.S. Ambassa­ for a luncheon or anything-having a bull session on dor to Rome?", contains 14 questions and answers to some current topic of importance. Fact Sheets are in­ clarify some confusing aspects of the controversy which tended to arm such men with the facts they ought to arose when, on October 20, President Truman nomi­ have. nated General Mark Clark to be the first U.S. Am­ The January Fact Sheet .. Religious Liberty in bassador to Vatican City. Yugoslavia?" gives the top facts in the Stepinac re­ The Fact Sheet gets down to brass tacks by posing lease case. -and answering-questions such as: Why did Presi­ Reprints of Fact Sheets are offered at $1 per hun­ dent Truman nominate General Clark? What is dred plus postage.

RADIO Other outstanding speakers of the Church and the laity as well as choral groups are being selected for future pro­ HE National Council of Catholic Men this month grams. begins the 2 3rd year of radio network broadcasting. T Listed below are current schedules of programs pro­ FAITH IN OUR TIME duced in cooperation with the national radio networks: The Reverend John W. Stafford, C.S.V., head of the CATHOLIC HOUR Department of Psychology at Catholic University, will be the The Most Reverend Fulton J. Sheen, Auxiliary Bishop of speaker for the month of January on the Cath~lic portion of "Faith In Our Time" produced by N.C.C.M. m coopera­ New York, comes t? ~~e. Catholi~ Hour once again, .eresenting ''The Life of Chnst m a senes of talks from January 6 tion with the Mutual Broadcasting System. through Easter (April 13) . It is important to note that the time for this program, Associated with the Catholic Hour since its inception, usually heard from 10:15 to 10:25 a.m., EST every Thursday, this will be Bishop Sheen's first appearance since his elevation will be changed to 12:45-1:00 p.m. beginning January 3, to the Episcopacy and will mark his 23rd successive series 1952. on this most widely known of all Catholic network programs. Produced by the National Council of Catholic Men in cooper­ TELEVISION ation with the National Broadcasting Company, the program is presented each Sunday at 2:00 p.m., EST. SERIES of four TV shows, explaining the Mass, will During January and February the musical features of the be aired on the Sundays of February 3, 10, 17, and 24 program will be offered by the St. Philip Neri Choristers of A by N.C.C.M. The programs will be telecast at 1 p.m., New York under the direction of James Welch. EST, over the NBC-TV Network under the title "Frontiers of Faith." CHRISTIAN IN ACTION Two priests, one the celebrant of the Mass, and the other The "Christian in Action" program produced by the narrator, will participate in the program, w~ich will be N.C.C.M. in cooperation with the American Broadcasting geared along informal lines, intended for Cathohc. and n~n­ Company each Sunday, 11:30 a.m. to 12:00 Noon, will Catholic alike. Because of the beautiful music assoClated wtth present two outstanding speakers during January. it, a High Mass will be televised. . Both widely known in their field and for their fine work Rt. Rev. Msgr. William J. McDonald, professor of Phtlos?­ with the Catholic weekly publication America, they are Rev. phy at the Catholic University of America, as narra~or, wtll Robert C. Hartnett, S.J., editor-in-chief and Rev. John La­ lead his audience from the rectory into the sacnsty and Farge, S.J., associate editor. thence to the altar during the programs. Father LaFarge will be heard on January 6 and 13. The TV cameras will bring the viewer closer to the altar Father Hartnett will speak on January 20 and 27. probably than he has ever been before. On: c~era will work Appearing with the two speakers during J~nuary will be from the sacristy, with others stationed wtthtn the sanctuary­ a Gregorian Chant group _from Fordham Umvers1ty under to insure many close-ups. In addition, Msgr. McD?nald wtll the direction of Father Cynl Smetana, O.S.A. have Mass vessels and other religious objects on hxs desk for The presentation of these special talks augmented by better close shots. the choral group will mark a change in the format of the N.C.C.M. opened its TV work with programs on the NBC­ "Christian in Action" program which during the past year TV Network during December with Father John J .. Dough­ had presented a series of panel discussions on such subjects erty, Darlington, N. Y., as speaker. Music was furn1shed _by as the Christian in Action: "In the Home"; "In Education"; the Pius X Liturgical School of Music of Manhattanvllle "In Leisure Time"; "In Economic Relations". College of the Sacred Heart, New York.

JANUARY, 1952 [ 17] Heart of World Peace prevent the outbreak of a war, especially in those (Continued from page 5) countries where the voice of the citizens has not suf­ Peace, We have to say again today what We have ficient influence in the decisions of their governments. said before: The world is indeed far removed from Disarmament that order willed by God in Christ, the order which On the other hand, disarmament, or rather the guarantees a genuine and lasting peace. Perhaps it simultaneous and reciprocal reduction of armaments, will be said that in that case it was no use to trace which We have always desired and begged for, is an out the bold outlines of this order, and to set in relief unstable guarantee of lasting peace if it is not ac­ the fundamental contribution of the Church to the companied by the abolition of the weapons of hate, cause of peace. It will be objected that if We say cupidity, and of overweening lust for prestige. In that peace cannot be defended but by a return to the other words, whoever connects too closely the ques­ eternal values of the individual person and of man­ tion of material weapons with that of peace, is guilty kind, We thus only encourage the cynicism of skeptics of neglecting the primary and spiritual element in and deepen the discouragement of the friends of peace. every danger of war. He does not look beyond Finally We will be reproached with admitting that figures, and, besides, his calculations are necessarily these are right who see in an "armed peace" the de­ limited to the moment in which the conflict threatens finitive and last word on the subject, a solution that to break out. A friend of peace, he will always ar­ would deplete the economic forces and exhaust the rive too late to save it. nerves of the nations of the world. If the desire to prevent war is to be truly efficacious, Nevertheless, for a practical as well as a theoretical above all a remedy must be sought for the spiritual estimate of the contribution each one can make to the anemia of nations, for the ignorance of individual cause of peace, especially the Church, even in unfavor­ responsibility before God and man, and for the want able circumstances and in spite of the skeptics and of a Christian order which alone is able to guarantee pessimists, We think it absolutely necessary to fix Our peace. To this goal the resources of the Church are view on the Christian order, today lost sight of by so now directed. many, in order to see the crux of the problem now The Christian order is an order of liberty before us. In the first place, such a survey will convince any But here the Church meets with a particular diffi­ impartial observer that the heart of the problem of culty which is due to the state of present social con­ peace is now the spiritual order: the problem is a ditions: her exhortation in favor of the Christian spiritual lack, a spiritual deficiency. Too rare in the order, as the principal factor in securing peace, is at world today is the deeply Christian sense of values; the same time an incentive to form a correct idea of too few are the true and perfect Christians. In this true liberty. The ultimate reason is that the Christian way, men themselves set obstacles in the way of actua­ order, since its purpose is peace, is essentially an order ting the order willed by God. of liberty. It is the cooperative effort of free men and Everyone must be convinced of this spiritual element peoples toward the progressive realization in all inherent in the danger of war. To awaken that con­ spheres of life of the ends which God has assigned viction is in the first place the duty of the Church, to humanity. It is, however, a pathetic fact that today and her primary contribution to the peace today. true liberty is not esteemed, or it is no longer pos­ sessed. In these circumstances, harmonious coopera­ Modern Arms tion, as the proper condition of peace, is internally We too-and more than anyone else--deplore the enervated and anemic, while externally it is exposed monstrous cruelty of modern weapons. We deplore to perils of every moment. them and do not cease to pray that they may never be How, for example, can those who in the economic employed. But, on the other hand, is it not, perhaps, or social life want to make everything depend upon a kind of practical materialism and superficial senti­ society-even the direction and security of their own mentality to make the existence and threat of these existence-or those who today look for their sole daily weapons the sole and principal consideration in the spiritual nourishment less and less from themselves­ question of peace, while no attention is paid to the that is to say, from their personal convictions and absence of that Christian order which is the true guar­ knowledge-and more and more from the diet pre­ antee of peace? pared in advance by the press, radio, movies and tele­ Hence, among other reasons, the differences of opin­ vision; how can they conceive true liberty, how can ion and also the inexactitudes concerning the licitness they esteem and desire it, if it no longer has a place and illicitness of modern warfare; hence likewise the in their lives? illusion of statesmen who count too much on the Why, they are no more than mere cogs in the vari­ existence or disappearance of those weapons. The ous social organizations: they are no longer free men terror they inspire in the long run begins to lose its capable of assuming and accepting a responsible role effect, just like any other cause of terror; or at least in public affairs. it would not suffice, if the occasion should arise, to Therefore, if today they cry, "no more war" what

[ 18] CATHOLIC ACTION trust can be put in them? It is not their voice, but the age, while not rarely the youth of the opposing side, anonymous voice of the social group to which they prematurely disillusioned by bitter experience, have happen to belong. become weary, skeptical, incapable of taking any This is the sad state of affairs which also impedes interest in public and social life. the Church in her efforts to obtain peace and in her The good offices of the Holy See for the peaceful solution plans for the realization of true human liberty which, of conflicts from the Christian viewpoint, is the indispensable element of the social order, considered as the organism Peace, as We have said, cannot be assured unless of peace. In vain would she multiply her invitations God reigns in the ordered universe He has established, to men devoid of that realization, and still more use­ in the duly organized society of nations, in which each lessly would she direct her pleas to a society which nation effects peace internally among free men and has been reduced to sheer automatism. their families, and externally with other nations, an order guaranteed by the Church according to her office Such, however, is the widespread weakness of a and in her own field of action. Such has always been world which loves emphatically to call itself "the free the aim of great and wise men even outside the world." It deceives itself, or else it does not under­ Church, as also in modern times on the occasion of stand itself: its strength is not based upon true free­ the Vatican Council. (Cone. Vat. postulata patrum, dom. This is a new danger which threatens the de fe militafi el bello. Coil. Lac. T.7, N.9, N.861- peace, and which in the light of Christian social order 866). We must deprecate. Whence originates among not a few highly placed persons in what is called "the free Meanwhile, the Church works for peace by awaken­ world" an aversion to the Church, that importunate ing and stimulating a practical understanding of the preacher of something which others pretend to have, spiritual heart of the problem. Faithful to the spirit but have not, and which, by a strange inversion of of her Divine Founder and to her mission of love, ideas, they unjustly say that the Church has not: \Ve she endeavors to the best of her power to offer her mean respect and esteem for genuine freedom. good ffices wherever she sees the threat of a conflict between nations. Above all else, this Apostolic See But the invitation of the Church meets e en colder has ne er hirked such a duty, and never shall. welcome from the opposite camp. Here, indeed, it is claimed, true freedom reigns because social life does "The Church of Silence" not depend on that uncertain figment of the imagina­ As We well know and deplore with a heart deeply tion, the autonomous individual, nor does it make grieved, throughout vast regions of the world, this public order as indifferent as possible to values that invitation of Ours to peace does not reach, except in are absolute, but everything is strictly bound up with mutilated form, the "Church of Silence." Million and directed toward the existence and development of cannot pr fess openly their responsibility before God a defined collectivity. for peace. In their very homes and churches even The results, however, of the system We are now the ancient tradition of the manger, so dear and speaking of have not been happy, nor has the activity familiar, has been abolished by the despotic will of of the Church become easier, for here the true concept those in power. Millions are in no position to exer­ of freedom and personal responsibility is defended cise their Christian influence for moral freedom and still less. How could it be otherwise when God is not for peace, because these words, freedom and peace, Sovereign, when s cial life and activity do not gravi­ have become the stolen monopoly of profe sional tate around Him, nor have their center in Him? trouble-makers and worshippers of force. Society is nothing but a gigantic tnachine whose order Nevertheless, even with bound arm and do ed lip , is only apparent, because there no longer exists the the "Church of Silence" nobly respond to Our invita­ order of life, of the spirit, of freedom, of peace. Like tion. With a look she points to the still fresh graves a machine, its activity is material, destructive of human of her martyrs, to the chains of her confessors, con­ dignity and freedom. fident that her silent holocaust and her sufferings are In such a society, the contribution of the Church a most potent contribution to the cause of peace be­ to peace, and her counsels of genuine order in real cause they are a most noble invocation and a most freedom are given under very difficult circumstances. compelling title to win from the Divine Prince of However, the alleged absolute social values are ca­ Peace grace and mercy for the fulfillment of her pable of inspiring enthusiasm in youth at a critical mission. "Grant peace, 0 Lord, in our days."

SEVEN IMPORTANT PAPAL DOCUMENTS PRINTED $1.00 per set Moral Questions Affecting Married Life, Counsel for Teaching Sisters, Promotion of Catholic Mi sions, Proof:t for the Existence of God in the Light of Modern Natural Science, 1951 Christma Me sage of Pope Pius XIt On Reciting the Rosary and Sempiternu Rex, on the 15th centenary of the Council of halcedon, are seven titles of important new Papal Encyclicals and addresses just printed in pamphlet form by N.C.W.C. $1.00 N.C.W.C. PUBLICATIONS OFFICE- 1312 Ma sachusetts Avenue N.W., Washington 5, D. C.

JANUARY, 1952 [19] Month by Month w-ith the N. C. W. C.

Bishop Caillouet Becomes Episcopal Moderator International Agency to Coordinate For Apostleship of Sea National Catholic Charity Organizations Following a request by the President of the National In early December representatives of 13 nations, including Conference of the Apostleship of the Sea to the Bishops of the United States, meeting in Vatican City, concluded the the country that the Conference be enhanced by being placed first assembly of the International Catholic Conference of under episcopal leadership, Bishop L. Abel Caillouet, Auxil­ Charity planned during international study days in the Holy iary of New Orleans, has been appointed the first episcopal Year. moderator of the National Conference. The meeting adopted the constitution of the organiz~tion The national unit of the Apostleship of the Sea was begun which had been previously approved by the Holy See, and in 1947. It is composed of port chaplains, Catholic Mari­ decided the general secretariate of the organization will be time Club directors and their helpers, and Catholic merchant located at Rome, with branch offices in Geneva and in New seamen. The organization lists eleven clubs in the United York for representation with the United Nations and its States ports and intensive ship visiting activities in three various commissions and departments. ports. There are 67 clubs throughout the world and 325 Apostleship of the Sea centers. In 1946 the movement was The scope and purpose of the organization was stated placed under the patronage of the Sacred Consistorial Con­ as follows: ( 1) to facilitate coordination and collaboration gregation by His Holiness Pope Pius XII and plans have between national charity organizations, ( 2) to set up a cen­ been made to move the international headquarters from the ter of information and statistics, ( 3) to represent Catholic British Isles, where in modern times the work began, to undertakings in the field of charity on an international level. the Eternal City. Catholic Action Medal for 1951 First NC Christmas Supplement Awarded to Richard F. Pattee Issued in Spanish-Language Richard F. Pattee, N.C.W.C. staff member, historian and Noticias Catolicas, Spanish-language edition of the journalist, was named the 1951 recipient of the Catholic N.C.W.C. News Service, has issued its first special Christmas Action Medal awarded by St. Bonaventure University, Olean, Supplement. Twenty-eight newspapers and a radio program N. Y. Mr. Pattee is consultant on international relations in 12 Latin American countries ana the United States were for the National Catholic Welfare Conference. He is also subscribers. a columnist for N.C.W.C. Feature Service and has written Among the subscribers were E1 Tiempo of Bogota, Colom­ many special articles on Spain, Europe and South America bia, one of the most influential dailies in South America, for the Feature Service. He has also lectured at the Univer­ and leading secular dailies in Cuba, Mexico, Venezuela and sity of Puerto Rico and the University of Fribourg, Switzer­ Uruguay. land.

CATHOLIC ACTION- MoNTHLY PuBLICATION OF THB NATIONAL CATHOLIC WELFARE CONFERENCE

"We have grouped together, under the National Cath­ Most Rev. Patrick A. O'Boyle, Archbishop of Washington, epis­ olic Welfare Conference, the various agencies by which copal chairman of the Department of Social Action; Most Rev. the cause of religion is furthered. Each of these, con­ Emmet M. Walsh, Coadjutor Bishop of Youngstown, episcopal tinuing its own special work in its chosen field, will chairman of the Legal Department; Most Rev. Thomas K. Gor­ now derive additional support through general co- man, Bishop of Reno, episcopal chairman of the Press Depart­ operation." ment; and Most Rev. Matthew F. Brady, Bishop of Manchester, -from the 1919 Pastoral Letter of the episcopal chairman of the Department of Education. Archbishops and Bishops of the U. S. RIGHT REV. MSGR. HOWARD J. URROLL, S.T.D. OFFICERS OF THE General Secretary N.C.W.C. ADMINISTRATIVE BOARD VERY REV. MSGR. PAUL F. TANNER Most Rev. Francis P. Keough, Archbishop of Baltimore, chair­ Assistant General Secretary man of the Administrative Board and episcopal chairman of the Executive Department; Most Rev. Karl J. Alter, Archbishop of VERY REV. MSGR. PAUL F. TANNER Cincinnati, vice chairman and treasurer of the Administrative Editor Board; Most Rev. John F. Noll, Bishop of Fort Wayne, secretary of the Administrative Board; Most Rev. John J. Mitty, Arch­ EDITH H. }ARBOB bishop of San Francisco, episcopal chairman of the Youth Assistant Editor Department; Most Rev. Richard J. Cushing, Archbishop of Opinions expressed in articles published itJ this magazine are Boston, episcopal chairman of the Department of Lay Organiza­ to be t·egarded as those of the respective co11tribrttors. They do tions; Most Rev. Joseph E. Ritter, Archbishop of St. Louis, fJOt necessarily carry with them the formal approval of the episcopal chairman of the Department of Catholic Action Study; Administrative Board. National Catholic Welfare Conference.

11