March 20, 2020 In This Issue ESSEESSENGERNGER M Serving the Diocese of Covington, Kentucky since 1926

Special Section: Senior Living pages 11–18

2 Two pro-life bills put on hold General Assembly temporarily suspends session

2 Living with children in quarantine Invest in faith and family

2 Nursing homes respond to coronavirus restrictions

3 Catholic schools adopt home schooling Non-traditional instruction implemented CNS photo/Vatican Media via Reuters Standing in the window of the library of the Apostolic 3 CBAR Palace overlooking an empty St. Peter’s Square, Pope Catholic Bishop Abuse Francis blesses the city of Rome March 15, 2020, still under lockdown to prevent the spread of the coronavirus. Reporting Service

6 CRS Rice Bowl Pope prays for pastorstofind waystominister amid pandemic Junno Arocho Esteves The pope discouraged priests from taking “drastic measures” 10 Super’s Spotlight Catholic News Service advising them to be near their faithful and prayed that the Holy VATICAN CITY — Pope Francis urged people to pray for parish Spirit would help their pastoral discernment in finding ways to not What are the children up to? priests so that they may find ways to accompany their people while leave “the holy, faithful people of God alone.” the coronavirus pandemic continues to restrict movement around In his homily, the pope reflected on the day’s Gospel reading from the country and the world. St. Matthew, in which Jesus tells the parable of a wealthy landown- The pope offered his intention at the beginning of his Bishop’s Schedule ...... 3 er who leased his vineyard to tenants. livestreamed morning Mass March 13, the seventh anniversary of The landowner’s servants and son attempted to collect the fruits Commentary ...... 4 his election to the papacy. of the vineyard. However, the tenants beat and murdered them to People and Events ...... 8 A day earlier, Cardinal Angelo De Donatis, papal vicar for the acquire the son’s inheritance. Saint Snippet ...... 9 Diocese of Rome, announced that all churches, which had The pope explained that the tenants represented members of the Classifieds ...... 20 remained open for private prayer, would be closed to prevent the people God chosen to receive the covenant so that they “may look Entertainment ...... 22 spread of the virus. He modified the order the next day, allowing forward with hope.” However, when the time came to gather the Shopper’s Guide ...... 22 pastors to make the choice to open, but only if people maintain a fruits, “these people forgot that they weren’t the masters.” safe distance from one another. News Briefs ...... 23 (Continued on page 19)

Missed an edition? Current and back Diocese respondstoCOVID-19—whereweare now, issues of the Messenger are available online at covdio.org/messenger. continual updates are onlineatwww.covdio.org Laura Keener tive measures and operational responses for parishes, schools and Editor the Curia that were developed and recommended to Bishop Foys by Last week, information and recommendations concerning the newly created Coronavirus Task Force. COVID-19 (coronavirus) have been changing and spreading, it The 16-member task force, operating under the direction of seems, as quickly as the pandemic itself. Governor Andy Beshear is Father Ryan Maher, vicar general, includes three pastors, Curia taking a dynamic approach to stop the spread of the disease, which, directors and the directors of St. Anne Retreat Center and Catholic as of this writing, has claimed the life of one Kentuckian who died, Charities, Diocese of Covington. The report was sent via e-mail to the governor said March 16, from complications of the illness due all members of the Curia and to all priests, deacons, principals and to several underlying medical conditions. religious houses of the diocese and includes information on what Here is a timeline (from latest to earliest) of instructions issued parishes, schools and Curia personnel could expect in the event of and actions taken by Bishop Roger Foys, and other diocesan lead- closing as well as preventative measures to be taken. ers, in efforts to protect the faithful of the Diocese of Covington. It “In light of the coronavirus situation in the Commonwealth and is important to note that diocesan staff is continually monitoring the Governor declaring a state of emergency, it is necessary for us the changing conditions and updates are frequently made. For the to be prepared with a plan of action,” Bishop Foys instructed the latest diocesan communications visit www.covdio.org. task force via e-mail. On Friday, March 13, Bishop Foys instructs that, effective imme- On Thursday, March 12, at 6:30 p.m., Michael Clines, superin- diately, any nonessential meetings, events or gatherings scheduled tendent of schools, sent a letter to principals announcing that to be held from now through April 3 at any parishes, Catholic Catholic schools will cease in-person instruction beginning schools, diocesan offices, religious houses and other diocesan insti- Monday, March 16 through March 27. Additionally, all school tutions are to be postponed or canceled. extracurricular activities are suspended through March 27. This action, he said, is being made “In the interest of the health Earlier that day, Mr. Clines had sent a letter to parents urging and safety of our faithful and to help prevent the spread of the them to prepare for extended school closures and encouraging COVID-19 virus.” them during this time of uncertainty. That instruction was part of a document that includes preventa- (Continued on page 21) 2 March 20, 2020 Messenger

music and talk about the Tips for livinginquarantine with faith Catholic themes you may find in it. “It might not be Messenger staff report Use your resources the reason they wrote the With children at home all day and evening events can- Did your children bring home their song, but you see the long- celled due to the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s very easy to go religion textbooks? Do a review of what ing. Everyone is searching stir-crazy. How can you continue to live out your faith with they’ve learned so far this year — maybe for the same thing… few sacraments and a different daily routine? even try making them teach it to you. through (the musician’s) The Messenger sat down with David Cooley, co-director Watch some good Catholic movies, lyrics, what do you see in and office manager, diocesan Office of Catechesis and like the lives of the saints or Old that story? It teaches chil- Evangelization to gather some suggestions. Testament stories. dren to start thinking Be conscious that you’re a role model and be careful to A simple Google search reveals thou- about things in that way.” set an example of how you treat each other within the fam- sands of Catholic online resources. — Create a sacred space ily. Some of these include: for family prayer. “Bring Assess your own family situation and understand what — CatholiCity.com — free books, CDs, some objects together from each member needs. For most families, it’s essential to booklets, Catholic commentary, around the house and make sure everyone has a place to be alone at some point in streamed talks, daily Mass readings make it your prayer the day. Then take the opportunity to integrate your faith — Formed.org — movies, programs, space,” Mr. Cooley suggest- into the mandated life at home and show your children audio, books — everything from sacra- ed, whether it’s group what’s important to you. mental prep to streaming Catholic prayer or a place where “As parents, you’re the primary catechists and teachers media and talk series providing apolo- your children can go dur- are just support,”said Mr. Cooley. “Maybe this is a wake-up getics ing the day to get away call that you need to brush up on your own catechesis so you — Catholic Answers at catholic.com from everything and just can lead your family to grow in faith.” — an extensive database with answers be with Christ. Have specific times you pray as a family about Catholic practices — Go outside. “Connect Without the typical schedule, including the morning Read good Catholic books you might nature to God,” said Mr. rush, things can get off to a bad start. Cultivate your own already have in your home, like: A student from Villa Madonna Academy, Villa Hills, Cooley. “Slow down and schedule. This can include: — The Great Adventure Catholic wears his uniform at home to stay in routine while have your children take — Prayer before meals; Bible studying by non-traditional instruction. notice of what we miss in — Praying the angelus at noon; — The Life of Jesus: A Graphic Novel the normal fast-paced life.” — Praying vespers in the evening; — The Lego Catechism of the Seven Sacraments “Perhaps this is a time, when the family is forced to be — Praying the rosary. Fight the temptation to be on screens. away from everyone else, that families can learn to appreci- “Talk about the mysteries of the life of Christ with your “The world is already isolated enough. Use your time ate each other and being together,” he said. children,” said Mr. Cooley. “Talk about how the Church is intentionally and make it quality,” said Mr. Cooley. These are just a few suggestions — there are countless universal and everyone is praying the Mass and the liturgy Here are some suggestions: more ways for the family to thrive amid quarantine condi- of the hours around the world at the same time.” — Analyze media for Catholic themes. Listen to a tions. Catholic podcast together and discuss it. Listen to secular Two pro-life bills putonholdasGeneralAssembly pauses session Allegra Thatcher is out of committee and is ready to be voted on with a injunctive relief. Assistant Editor House amendment. It only remains to be cleared by the Essentially, it applies to regulation of abortion clinics The Kentucky General Assembly suspended its session Senate and then will go to the governor for approval. and making sure they’re complying with the law has typi- March 13 and 16 in an attempt to slow the spread of The Born Alive Infant Protection Act, as it’s also cally been the governor’s responsibility – this would trans- COVID-19 and minimize social interaction. Here are some named, is backed by Senator Whitney Westerfield and has fer more of that to the power of the attorney general. updates to some of the bills the Catholic Conference of been introduced for a few years in the Kentucky courts. House Bill 350 — the bill that would establish scholar- Kentucky (CCK) is watching “It’s at the last step of ship tax credits — has stalled. In recent days a group of this session. All information the House process,” said House Republicans are fighting hard to prevent HB 350 is up-to-date as of this print. Mr. Hall. He said the from getting a vote in 2020, said Mr. Vandiver. Two pro-life bills have bill’s clear language is Particularly concerning is that two Northern Kentucky passed the Kentucky House of well-drafted. representatives have told constituents who have called in Representatives and are head- Representatives support of the bill that Catholic schools in Northern ed to the Senate, though fur- Damon Thayer and Kentucky are not prepared to accept the students that ther action might depend on John Schickel co-spon- qualify for scholarships — because of poverty or special the progression of the coronavirus. sored the bill. Mr. Hall said these two bills are essential needs — and would be mandated to take them. Both of House Bill 67 and House Bill 451, both upholding fur- because they “keep a focus on a very meaningful legisla- these concerns are unfounded. ther regulation regarding the right to life, should be voted tion that will have a real legal impact on the situation.” “The mission and ministry of Catholic schools has on before the end of the General Assembly session in two “The General Assembly has passed a lot of pro-life leg- always been to educate children so as to break the cycle of weeks. The Assembly cancelled session for a four-day islation in recent years,” he said. “These bills aren’t for poverty for families,” said Kendra McGuire, associate weekend and determined to reconvene as normal on show, they really have a legal importance to them.” superintendent of Catholic schools. March 17. House Bill 451, the other pro-life bill from this week, In the Diocese of Covington three schools qualify for CCK executive director Jason Hall said it’s possible that passed by a 70-23 vote and is heading to the Senate. the Community Eligibility Provision of the National all bills that are non-essential will get de-railed just It would expand the power of Kentucky’s attorney gen- School Lunch Program. This means that a majority of stu- because of the crisis with the virus. However, he is hopeful eral to regulate abortion facilities, including bringing civil that these bills will be passed soon. or criminal penalties for violations beyond just seeking (Continued on page 22) House Bill 67, the Abortion Neutrality Constitutional Amendment, would amend the state constitution to clarify that there is no right to an abortion in the Kentucky Catholic nursing homes respondtoCOVID-19 Constitution. It passed 71-21 and is headed to the Senate. Andrew Vandiver, CCK assistant director, said it’s a Carol Zimmermann compassionate care situations, necessity because with the Supreme Court in flux, “…we Catholic News Service such as end-of-life situations. don’t know if Roe v. Wade is going to be upheld at the fed- WASHINGTON — The impact “We’re following the guide- eral level. If it’s not, these issues are going to be kicked of the coronavirus in the United lines to the letter,” said Darlene down to the states more often and there are other states States is likely felt the strongest in Underhill, a registered nurse and where the state supreme court has found the right to an nursing homes and senior living director of clinical services for abortion.” communities around the country, New Hampshire Catholic Mr. Hall said he was very excited to see the bill move for- and Catholic facilities are no Charities, which operates several ward. exception. rehabilitation and nursing cen- “We’ve received conflicting signals over the course of As of March 13, all nursing ters. the session so we were very relieved that it moved through homes and long-term care facili- Underhill told Catholic News ties, caring for the population Service March 12 that curtailing the House,” he said. “Of course we still have to get it down CNS photo/courtesy Mt. Carmel Rehabilitation & Nursing Center to the Senate. … I think this is one they’d definitely be most vulnerable to the coron- A resident of Mount Carmel Rehabilitation & Nursing visits could be for a “lengthy peri- interested in putting on the ballot as a House proposal.” avirus, have been urged by the Center in Manchester, N.H., is shown speaking with a od of time” and is something resi- He explained that HB 67 and Senate Bill 9 were priority Centers for Disease Control and member of the staff. Officials at this Catholic nursing dents at first seem to initially pro-life bills this session. Prevention to restrict all visitation home and others around the U.S. are responding to the “take more in stride,” but as the Senate Bill 9 has already passed the Senate in January, to their facilities except in certain coronavirus pandemic with restrictions for residents. (Continued on page 21) Messenger March 20, 2020 3

ly taking and how much time they should ded- Catholic schoolstoadopt non-traditional instruction icate to each. During normal school hours, teachers will Allegra Thatcher materials, and students are expected to complete their tasks be online to correspond with students and answer questions Assistant Editor for academic credit in the same way as if they were physical- by means of e-mail. Most teachers are working from home As concerns about the novel coronavirus, COVID-19, con- ly present at school. rather than in school buildings. tinue to rise, Governor Andy Beshear mandated, March 13: Students at most schools are receiving a daily e-mail with Mr. Clines said that the School Lunch Program offered by that public and private schools in the state of Kentucky close the day’s work, which includes lessons from paper packets the diocese will not be serving lunches from March 16–20. for two weeks, effective March 16. they receive weekly from the school as well as online classes Mr. Clines and his staff will reevaluate as the situation pro- In cooperation with the directive, Michael Clines, super- using Google Classroom, Schoology, ExploreMore! Gifted gresses and make a determination on a week-by-week basis. intendent of Catholic schools, issued a statement March 13: and other resources. These sites include a multitude of “I hope you can respect our efforts and decisions as we “Catholic schools will cease in-person instruction beginning resources for students and their parents to foster continual strive to provide the best non-traditional learning experi- Monday, March 16 through March 27.” All school extracur- learning while physical schools are closed. ence for your child during this very trying time for our ricular activities will also be suspended through March 27. Each school determines what its students need based on region, country and world,” said Mr. Clines to parents. Education will continue during this time by at-home available resources. St. Joseph School, Cold Spring, for For communications and any updates, which can happen instruction, which is to be determined individually by example, has e-mailed a recommended daily schedule from 8 quickly, visit www.covdio.org and click on the link to the schools according to resources and locale. a.m. to 3:30 p.m., including how much time should be allotted Public Health Concerns page. According to Mr. Clines, this Non-Traditional for studying, breaks and exercise. This works in accordance Instructional approach will employ both digital and printed with the number of subjects St. Joseph students are current- Reporting systemtorecord abuse complaints against bishops begins Catholic News Service and Messenger staff report ropolitan’s assessment to the Vatican, which has 30 days to Anthony Picarello, USCCB associate general secretary, WASHINGTON — A reporting system accepting sexual determine if a formal investigation is warranted. If so, a bish- told the bishops during their fall general assembly in misconduct allegations against U.S. bishops and eparchies is op will be authorized to oversee an investigation. November the system is designed to filter complaints so that in place. — When an investigation is ordered qualified experts, only those addressed in the “motu proprio” will be forwarded. Called the Catholic Bishops Abuse Reporting Service, or including laypeople, will conduct it. An investigation is Under CBAR, people with complaints about any other CBAR, the system became operational March 16. expected to be completed within 90 days and forwarded to the actions of a bishop, such as diocesan assignments, church The mechanism incorporates a website and a toll-free tele- Vatican. closings, liturgy or homily content, will be asked to contact phone number through which individuals can file reports — Vatican officials will review the findings of the investi- the appropriate diocese or eparchy directly. regarding a bishop. gation and determine the appropriate process leading to a Allegations of sexual abuse by a priest, deacon, religious, The website is ReportBishopAbuse.org. Calls can be final judgment. diocesan staff member or volunteer, will continue to be han- placed at (800) 276-1562. A link to the dled in accordance with the ReportBishopAbuse.org is also avail- Diocese of Covington’s child able on the Safe Environment page of protection policy (for details, the diocesan website, www.covdio.org. see www.covdio.org/safe- The nationwide system is being environment) and with proper implemented by individual dioceses civil authorities, under the under the direction of each respective process that has been in place cardinal, archbishop or bishop. The since the 2002 “Charter for information gathered will be protected Protection of Children and through enhanced encryption. This Young People.” reporting service may be used to Pope Francis released his report the actionsor inactions of liv- “motu proprio” last May fol- ing U.S. Catholic bishops, whether lowing a worldwide meeting active or retired, of U.S. dioceses or of bishops’ conference leaders eparchies. at the Vatican early in 2019 to Denver-based Convercent devel- discuss the church’s response oped the reporting system under a two- to clergy sexual abuse. The year contract with the U.S. Conference document specifically of Catholic Bishops. The company spe- addresses allegations of sexu- cializes in ethics and compliance man- al misconduct and other accu- agement for businesses and organiza- sations of actions or omis- tions. sions intended to interfere Under the system, the company with or avoid civil or church gathers information and routs reports to the appropriate As each case is filed, the person reporting an incident will investigations of such misconduct by clergy. church authority consistent with canon law. It does not con- be given a case number and password which can be used to fol- The “motu proprio” requires dioceses and eparchies duct any investigation. low progress of their particular case. worldwide to establish “one or more public, stable and easily Approved by the U.S. bishops in June at their spring gen- Individuals who file a report also will be encouraged to accessible systems for submission of reports” by May 31. eral assembly, the reporting mechanism meets the require- contact local law enforcement if they believe they have been a For more information on the reporting service and its opera- ments established by Pope Francis in his “motu proprio” “Vos victim of a crime. tion, visit: ReportBishopAbuse.org. Estis Lux Mundi” (“You are the light of the world”) to have a Archbishop Joseph E. Kurtz is the metropolitan who pre- way of receiving reports of sexual misconduct by a bishop. sides over the Province of Louisville, which includes the “Motu proprio” is a Latin phrase that means “on one’s own Diocese of Covington, Diocese of Lexington, Archdiocese of initiative.” Popes use it to signal a special personal interest in Louisville and Diocese of Owensboro in Kentucky and the a subject. Dioceses of Knoxville, Memphis and Nashville in Tennessee. The system works like this: In the event that a report is received that concerns Bishop’s — Calls initially will come into a central phone bank, Archbishop Kurtz, it will be forwarded to Bishop Roger J. where trained personnel will ask for information about the Foys of the Diocese of Covington, who is the senior suffragan Schedule allegation being made including the name of the person mak- bishop of this province. ing the report and his or her contact information. People also The Catholic Bishop Abuse Reporting service allows indi- will have the option of filing a report online if they do not viduals to relay to Church authorities any reports of a U.S. March 22 March 26 want to call. People will not be required to give their name if Catholic bishop who has: Mass for the 150th anniversary Individual meeting, 9 a.m. they wish to remain anonymous. — Forced someone to perform or to submit to sexual acts of the parish, St. Joseph Parish, Episcopal Council meeting, — The information gathered will be forwarded to the through violence, threat or abuse of authority. Cold Spring, 11:30 a.m. 10 a.m. appropriate metropolitan, or archbishop, responsible for each — Performed sexual acts with a minor or a vulnerable per- March 24 March 27 diocese in a province. Allegations against a metropolitan will son. High school principal meeting, High school principal meeting, be forwarded to the senior suffragan bishop in the appropri- — Produced, exhibited, possessed or distributed child 7:30 a.m. 7:30 a.m. ate province. The U.S. has 32 metropolitans. Each province pornography, or recruited or induced a minor or a vulnerable Diocesan directors meeting, Thomas More University has one archdiocese and several dioceses. person to participate in pornographic exhibitions. 9:30 a.m. interview, 10 a.m. — The information also will be forwarded to a layperson — Intentionally interfered with a civil or church investiga- Deans meeting, 1:30 p.m. designated to assist the bishop in receiving allegations. tion into allegations of sexual abuse committed by another March 29 — After review, the metropolitan or senior suffragan will cleric or religious. (This includes a cleric overseeing a dio- March 25 Mass, Cathedral Basilica of the send the report the apostolic nuncio in Washington. cese/eparchy in the absence of a diocesan or eparchial bish- High school principal meeting, Assumption, Covington, — The nuncio is required to send the report and the met- op.) 7:30 a.m. 10 a.m. 4 March 20, 2020 Messenger COMMENTARY Doubling downonabad deal Perseverance on a difficult but noble path is a virtue. Uighurs into concentration camps; about its assaults on Decree on the Pastoral Office of the Bishops in the Stubbornness when confronted by irrefutable evidence of religious communities, including the defacing and demo- Church and Canon 377.5 of the Code of Canon Law, but a grave mistake is a vice. The latter would seem an apt lition of Catholic churches after the accord with the Holy because they knew that that concession would weaken characterization of a letter sent on Ash Wednesday to the See was signed; about its aggressive military moves in the Church’s evangelical mission in China. The deal entire College of Cardinals the South China Sea; about its creation of an Orwellian Cardinal Re defends is not in a line of continuity with the THE CATHOLIC by its new Dean, Cardinal internal security apparatus through facial-recognition policy of John Paul II and Benedict XVI: it is an even DIFFERENCE Giovanni Battista Re. In technology; about its ranking the Chinese citizenry worse deal than the deal those popes would not make. For that letter — his first offi- according to their political reliability (meaning their it concedes nominating power to the Chinese Community cial act as Dean — Cardinal acquiescence to what the Chinese Communist Party dic- Party, which manages religious affairs in China, not the Re reprimands the tates); about its international espionage, often conducted Chinese government. And that is, in a word, intolerable. redoubtable Cardinal behind the cover of putatively independent technology Cardinal Re’s defense of the indefensible is a last gasp Joseph Zen, SDB, emeritus companies like Huawei; about its relentless digital of the old Vatican Ostpolitik, the failed policy of making bishop of Hong Kong, for attacks on Taiwan; and about the global Chinese “Belt- concessions to totalitarian regimes that did much dam- his criticisms of the agree- and-Road” initiative, which financially shackles Third age to the Church in east central Europe during the 1970s. ment the Vatican made World countries to the Beijing regime. Italian Vatican diplomats still defend that policy, claiming with the People’s Republic Yet nary a public word has been spoken by Vatican absurdly that it set the table for the Revolution of 1989 of China in 2018. diplomacy about any of this. and the fall of the Berlin Wall. But what did the The bloom is off the What is most disturbing about Cardinal Re’s letter, Ostpolitik actually accomplish? It made the Hungarian Chinese rose just about however, is its claim that the 2018 Vatican-China agree- hierarchy a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Hungarian George Weigel everywhere in the world. ment is in continuity with the diplomacy of John Paul II Communist Party, gutting the Church’s evangelical credi- So it is more than disturb- and Benedict XVI. To my understanding, that is simply bility in the process. It demoralized Catholicism in what ing that the Holy See should be doubling down on what not right — or at best, it’s a distortion of the historical was then Czechoslovakia. It put unnecessary pressure on everyone (except those directly involved in cutting it) record in service to defending what can’t be defended on the Church in Poland. And it facilitated the deep penetra- thinks is a very bad deal: bad, because it allows the the merits. tion of the Vatican by communist secret intelligence serv- Chinese Communist Party to nominate candidates for Yes, John Paul II and Benedict XVI sought ways to ices. bishop, which the Holy See can then approve or reject. unite the Church in China. But neither was prepared to Cardinal Re’s letter laments that the path forward for Why is the bloom off the Chinese rose? Why are China do so at the expense of the Church’s right to order its the Catholic Church in China is difficult and complex. and its “model” no longer lauded in the global commen- internal life by Catholic criteria. Both John Paul II and Who could doubt it? That path is not made easier, howev- tariat? The initial Chinese mishandling (and worse) of Benedict XVI could have had a deal in which the Chinese er, by making unbecoming concessions to thugs — or by COVID-19, the coronavirus, has had an impact. Before government would propose candidates for bishop, which calling out fellow-cardinals who challenge the 2018 anyone had heard of COVID-19, however, there was the Vatican would then accept or veto. Both popes Vatican-China deal because it does precisely that. mounting concern about the intentions and brutality of declined to accept any such arrangement, not only George Weigel is a senior fellow of the Ethics and Public the Chinese communist regime: about its herding because it contradicted the teaching of Vatican II in its Policy Center in Washington, D.C. Acaseofthe blind leading the blind The readings for the fourth Sunday of Lent - Cycle Of course, I was amazed at how well my blind guide the blind man does not. As the episode progresses, not “A” are 1 Samuel 16:1, 6-7, 10-13; Ephesians 5:8-14; John could “see.” She did not permit me to make one false only is physical sight restored to the blind man, but he 9:1-41. move. All obstacles were easily traversed as she warned also becomes more and more enlightened in faith. All the My father was a charter member of the local Lions me of every little approaching variation in the path we while the Pharisees, who had always enjoyed sight, are Club, an organization that helps those suffering from var- walked. It was a literal demonstration of the meaning of shrouded in deepening darkness by their stubborn ious visual handicaps. When I was about eleven years old, Jesus’ words at the end of today’s Gospel: “I came into refusal to grow in faith. By the time today’s Gospel ends, the club sponsored a pic- this world to divide it, to make the sightless see and the we all know who the blind ones are! nic for the blind. The seeing blind.” The whole scenario frightens me a bit. I wonder if I’m EIGHTH DAY Lions Club members and Through my experience I realized that the blind really not a bit like the Pharisees, content with my faith and their families were to could “see,” though in a way different from those of us religion just the way it is, convinced that I have no need attend the outing and act who are gifted with sight. In short, those without sight to grow, blind to God’s gentle call to conversion. Perhaps as hosts and guides. I was are not really blind; they just “see” in a different way. We I’ve become so comfortable with my little niche in the nervous about this find this same sort of variation on what it means to really world that I can no longer see the new things to which the because I had never been “see” in today’s first reading from the First Book of Lord calls me. Is Paul speaking to me in today’s reading around blind people and I Samuel. There we are told: “Not as man sees does God from Ephesians: “Awake, O sleeper, arise from the dead, knew that on this occasion see, because man sees the appearance but the Lord looks and Christ will give you light”? I would be paired up with into the heart.” Lent is the annual call of the Church to conversion, to someone my own age who Today’s liturgy is an invitation to the “Elect,” those see as God sees, not as the world sees. On this fourth was blind. I was really chosen for initiation at Easter, to begin to see in a differ- Sunday of Lent we celebrate the second scrutiny with the afraid that I would not ent way, to see the world and the meaning of life as God elect at the principal Sunday Liturgy. We will pray for know how to act. sees. Because we all share in the Lenten journey of the them in these words: “Father of mercy, you helped the Father Daniel Vogelpohl In the course of the “Elect,” we too are invited to share in this new type of man born blind to believe in your Son and through that afternoon, in order to vision. We receive our sight, our new vision, through the faith to reach the light of your Kingdom. Free your cho- acquaint us “seeing” people with the talents and abilities process of conversion. sen ones from the falsehoods that surround and blind of the blind, we were asked to switch roles. I was blind- The man born blind (today’s Gospel) undergoes this them. Let truth be the foundation of their lives. May they folded and the young blind person, for whom I had been process. He receives his physical sight rather quickly; the live in your light forever.” acting as guide, became my guide. I was petrified! I was vision of faith comes in stages. He first refers to Jesus It is a prayer we offer for ourselves as well. sure I would trip over a rock, run into a tree, fall in the simply as “that man they call Jesus.” Later he offers his Father Daniel Vogelpohl is pastor of Blessed Sacrament lake or have some other such horrible fate totally embar- opinion that “he is a prophet.” Finally, he affirms that Parish, Ft. Mitchell. rass me in front of my friends. (It didn’t occur to me that Jesus comes from God. they would never know since they were all blindfolded The man born blind is contrasted with the Pharisees too!) who question him. As the story begins, the Pharisees see,

(UPS-403-650) Published by the Roman Catholic Diocese of Covington, Ky.; 44 issues a year Bishop Roger J. Foys...... Publisher VOL. 90 NO. 11 (weekly except from June 1 to mid-August, when published every other week; not Rev. Ronald M. Ketteler ...... Episcopal Liaison MESSENGER published the week after Easter and two weeks at Christmas/New Year’s). Subscription rate: Laura Keener ...... Editor, General Manager $19 per year; $40 foreign. Periodical Postage paid at Covington, KY 41012 and additional Allegra Thatcher ...... Assistant Editor Official newspaper of the Diocese of Covington mailing office Cincinnati, Ohio 45203. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to MESSENGER, Monica Yeamans...... Editorial Assistant 1125 Madison Ave., Covington, KY 41011-3115. Kim Holocher...... Advertising Manager 1125 Madison Ave. • Covington, Ky. 41011-3115 Advertising deadline: Wednesday noon, 9 days prior to publication date. Laura Gillespie...... Production Coordinator/Designer Telephone: (859) 392-1500 E-mail: [email protected] Editorial deadline: Friday noon, 7 days prior to date. www.covdio.org Subscriptions, address changes: Contact Circulation Dept. at above address. Messenger March 20, 2020 5 COMMENTARY Facesofchoice Do nothing Who are the faces of “choice”? Could it be the children Today we are busy from the time we wake up until we Recall the Old Testament Scripture reading from First placed in loving adoptive homes? Their birth parents choice go to sleep each night. Today we are constantly “on,” Kings chapter 19 where Elijah is trying to hear God’s was life when, realizing they weren’t ready to be parents, always doing something. We are constantly checking e- voice. Scripture tells us that God isn’t speaking in the chose an adoption plan. mail, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and more on our wind, he isn’t speaking through the earthquake or even Conversely, maybe the faces are children who learned devices — even while waiting for service in a restaurant. the fire. Rather he is heard in a whisper. that they survived an abortion attempt. Their parents — or Have you noticed how many people are on their devices We don’t hear many whispers in our world today do in some cases their grandparents — made a choice to seek in a restaurant, even when we? an abortion. BELIEVE,TEACH, there are other people at Pope Benedict XVI said in commenting on the account For sure we are all faces of Jesus, as we are all the choice PRACTICE their table? of the Transfiguration that it “is an invitation to take a and creation of God, made in his image and likeness. We hate silence and distance from the noisiness of everyday life in order to While with fellow pilgrims from the Diocese of downtime. We feel restless immerse oneself in God’s presence.” And in an article in Covington at the 47th annual March for Life in Washington if we aren’t doing some- the March 6th edition of the Messenger the Holy Father D.C., this past January, two thing. Waiting in traffic or comments about Jesus going to deserted places to pray, in line is almost painful. that he is “teaching us how to seek the Father, who VIEWPOINT abortion survivors addressed the crowd at the We have headphones or speaks to us in silence.” rally. First was Melissa earbuds so we can always Sisters and brothers, our challenge as we continue on Ohden. She said, “I am more listen to music or pod- our Lenten journey is to make an effort to take time to do than a choice, I am more casts. We can’t get in the nothing, to sit in silence in a deserted and quiet place and than someone’s reproductive car without turning on just relax in God’s presence. Not praying or reading, just rights, I AM A HUMAN the radio. And a dead cell trying to keep a quiet mind, to turn down the noise in our BEING!” phone battery is a catas- lives. It’s hard at first because we don’t normally just sit Her birth mother, at age trophe. and do nothing. But gradually we will be able to let our 19, was forced to seek an Deacon Michael Keller In the Gospel accounts minds quiet down for a few minutes and hopefully hear abortion. Melissa was of the Transfiguration we God’s voice, speaking to us in our hearts. bathed in a saline-infused hear the voice of the Father telling us to listen to Jesus. Deacon Michael Keller is assigned to St. John the solution for five days, meant But with our senses constantly being bombarded we have Evangelist Parish, Carrollton, and Transfiguration Ronald M. Bertsch to poison and scald her to no opportunity to hear him. Mission, Perry Park. death. She survived! Melissa shouted through the microphone, “Those 42 years ago, God said NO, not this little girl.” Melissa shared How Catholics should respondtoCOVID-19 how blessed she is, adopted and placed into a wonderful fam- The coronavirus illness, designated COVID-19, has spread health for the entire community. ily as a newborn, now married with two daughters. She has to over 100 countries, infected at least 121,000 people and The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has rec- a relationship with her birth mother. Her life is what provid- killed at least 4,375 worldwide. Even as the spread of the ommended that employers encourage sick employees to stay ed an opportunity for healing, forgiveness and for love. virus has slowed in China, the epicenter of the outbreak, home and that they develop “nonpunitive leave policies” in Clair Culwell also spoke. Her mother was just 13 when cases are cropping up in communities across the United response to the coronavirus outbreak. While in the present she was forced to have a D&E (dilation and evacuation) sec- States, which as of March 11 has 1,016 cases. At least 31 peo- crisis, workers may have no choice but to rely on the good- ond trimester abortion. It was unknown that her mother ple have died. will (or risk aversion) of their employers, the country would was pregnant with twins. The abortion killed her twin, but GUEST This includes cases with be in a better position to contain the spread of this and not Clair. She was a miracle. no connection to foreign future epidemics if universal paid sick leave guaranteed Clair said, “You look at my face and you see my twin, travel, suggesting the virus that workers did not have to choose between paying their look at my life and you see the almighty hand of God.” has been spreading undetected for longer than first estimat- bills and limiting the risk of communal infection. Growing up, she only knew of her adoption, not that she ed. Any pretense that this outbreak could be contained The outbreak also could exacerbate well-known cracks in was a survivor or that she was a twin. She says she is so through purely defensive measures — travel restrictions on the U.S. health care system. The 27 million people in the appreciative of her adoptive family and what they gave her. affected countries and quarantines for returning citizens, United States without health insurance and millions more As an adult, she sought and found her birth mother. Hearing for example — is gone. The coronavirus poses a public risk; with high-deductible plans may forgo a trip to the doctor for the story unfold and seeing the terrible pain of her mother no individual or country is immune from infection. As such, fear of leaving with an exorbitant bill. “In a potential pan- as she recounted her secret was unforgettable. Now, she too it requires a proactive, public response centered on the com- demic, the last thing you want people to do is thinking twice has been offered forgiveness and healing. mon good. about going to the doctor,” Larry Levitt, executive vice presi- Choice is a powerful word in today’s society. We value This response has both individual and structural ele- dent for health policy at the Kaiser Family Foundation, told freedom, independence and self-determination. Let us pray ments. On the individual level, each person must decide how The Washington Post. Yet, instead of Congress putting for- for everyone who is scared, hurt, confused and not ready for they can best protect their own health without jeopardizing ward legislation that has any chance of passing to fill in the challenges and cost of rearing a child. Let us pray they the well-being of their neighbors. This means neither over- gaps in the existing system, political energy is still tied up in choose life. reacting nor underreacting. Hoarding goods, especially face fights over the Affordable Care Act in the courts. As the director of the DCCH Foster Care and Adoption masks and hand sanitizer, may provide healthy individuals The $8.3 billion bipartisan emergency response bill program, I see hundreds of children every month referred for with the illusion of safety, but it does so by potentially put- passed by the House will bring much-needed resources and a safe foster or adoptive family to “choose” them. For all who ting health care workers and other caregivers at greater risk relief to federal agencies and state governments working to are pro-life, I pray and ask that you pray for these children. if they are unable to access these supplies. contain the spread of COVID-19 and develop a vaccine. But Melissa created an Abortion Survivor’s Network for the On the other hand, not taking appropriate precautions here too, stopgap measures are no replacement for well-fund- estimated 44,000 attempted late term abortion survivors in can also hurt high-risk populations. While COVID-19 is not ed, fully staffed health agencies and a health care system the United States. I encourage everyone to visit the website life threatening to the vast majority of people (according to that incentivizes proactive detection and treatment for dis- FacesofChoice.org, where the video that was shown at the one U.S. expert, 80 percent of cases are mild and patients eases that threaten the nation’s health and economy. rally is available for viewing. Survivor faces are shown, “spontaneously recover”), for the elderly and people with As urgent as such longer-term structural reforms are, for their voices challenging, “Look me in the eye and tell me I certain underlying medical conditions the mortality rate now, the primary response to the coronavirus outbreak will shouldn’t exist;” “That I should have died today;” “My sur- could be as high as 15 percent. Otherwise healthy individu- come at the state, community and individual levels. For most vival was a mistake;” “Look me in the eye and tell me that I als who are tempted to ignore guidelines for hygiene prac- U.S. Catholics, it will entail relatively small disruptions like am worthless;” “Subhuman.” tices, social distancing or voluntary quarantine orders must scrapping travel plans or not receiving Communion from the It is a powerful perspective and their stories need to be realize that what might feel like the common cold to them cup at Mass. heard. could pose a serious threat to their neighbors. They should Just as our Lenten penance is meant to deepen our rela- Please, let us look at those children who survived an act accordingly. tionship with God and our solidarity with all who suffer as abortion and also those children now traumatized by later There are members of our communities, however, for the Lord did, we can allow these sacrifices and inconvenienc- poor “choices” of a mother and father. These are the chil- whom missing work or keeping a sick child home from es in our daily lives to direct our prayers toward those who dren not aborted but who are being abused and neglected school to minimize the risk of spreading the virus is not just have died and their loved ones, our attention toward those after birth. They need a pro-life family to offer them healing, a temporary inconvenience. Just as some people are at a who ill or facing financial hardship and our actions toward forgiveness and love. They, too, are survivors. higher physical risk from the virus, many Americans are strengthening the common good. The coronavirus poses a Pray and support families who offer their home to one of more vulnerable to the economic effects of the outbreak. threat that knows no borders. As Catholics, neither does our these survivors in our diocese. Contact me at They include the one-third of workers — and two-thirds of love and concern for our neighbors. www.DCCHCenter.org or call 331-2040 to learn more about low-wage earners — who do not have paid sick leave. Many This unsigned editorial appeared online March 5 on the fostering and adopting, and how we as a Church can offer of these people work in the service sector — restaurants, website of America magazine, a weekly Jesuit publication. It support to those who answer the call. Hurry, our next prepa- hotels, retail, home care — where they are regularly in con- has been provided by Catholic News Servcie. The views or ration class begins March 26. tact with the public. Enabling a sick employee to take time positions presented in this or any guest editorial are those of Ronald M. Bertsch is director of Therapeutic Foster off to get medical care without losing a job or being unable the individual publication and do not necessarily represent the Care/Adoption for the DCCH Center for Children and to pay rent is not only a matter of justice for and solidarity views of Catholic News Service or of the U.S. Conference of Families, Ft. Mitchell. with that employee — it also is a proactive defense of public Catholic Bishops. 6 March 20, 2020 Messenger

CRS Rice Bowl—astoryofhope from Kenya Life and Dignity of the Human Person Catholic social teaching inspires and guides how we are to live and work in the world. In this principle, Life and Dignity of the Human Person, Jesus reminds us that we are all made in God’s image and likeness. That means that every human being has a special value and a purpose. We need to care for each other so we can be the people God calls us to be. Jina langu ni Yvone. My name is Yvone. Ambitious and intelligent, Yvone is 11 years old. She lives with her grandparents, her aunt, three siblings and three cousins in Konjiko, a village in Kenya. Her community is located near Lake Victoria, the largest lake in Africa. The vil- lage is also close to the Equator, so it is very hot there. Yvone and her family speak Kiswahili and English. In Kenya, chores are one way Yvone helps her family. Each morning she washes dishes, sweeps the house, prepares lunch for the younger children and washes their school uni- forms. Yvone’s family has a hut where the family eats and sleeps, a stable for the animals and a separate kitchen hut. During the rainy season, the family collects water from a system on the roof. When it’s dry, they borrow from neighbors or walk to a community water point to fetch water. Yvone’s family life has changed for the better thanks to a CRS program that teaches families about healthy food. “CRS has changed my life — and the life of my family,” says Gaudencia, Yvone’s aunt. “Before, I could tell Yvone was- n’t healthy. But now, she’s active.” Gaudencia is proud of what she’s learned from the CRS program about healthy eating habits. She has taught her family to vary what they eat and include vegetables with every meal. Yvone’s grandfather, Eliakim, suffers from diabetes. The improved diet has helped make Yvone and her family are some of the him healthier. “What I have many participants in the CRS Rice Bowl, learned is really good, and I have which provides food and education about seen positive changes in my living healthily to those in need. health,” says Eliakim. “I have benefited a lot from Gaudencia’s participation with CRS.” Eliakim also thinks the improved diet gives his grand- Pilau (Spiced Rice) — Kenya children more energy for school and play. If the family is ever short an ingredient or has extra food, they borrow from and 1 tsp. ground cumin In a medium bowl, combine the cumin, all spice and share with neighbors in the spirit of community. It’s that spirit — and good nutrition — that gives Yvone, her family 1 ½ tsp. all spice black pepper. Set aside. Heat a large pot over and friends a strong foundation from which to pursue their ½ tsp. black pepper medium-high heat. Add the oil and red onion and dreams and live a healthier life. ¼ cup vegetable oil sauté for 10-15 minutes, until dark brown. Add the Yvone’s family works hard to send her to school. Her 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced garlic, ginger, cinnamon stick and spice mix. Cook for grandparents believe that having an education is an advan- 4 cloves garlic, minced 1–2 minutes. Add the potatoes and the water. Bring tage in life and want all of their grandchildren to have the opportunity to go to school. Her grandfather, Eliakim, sold 42 2 tbsp. ginger, minced to a boil and cook for 10 minutes. Add the rice, stir heads of cattle to pay for his children’s education. 1 cinnamon stick and cover. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook Yvone’s grandmother, Patricia, says: “I have a dream for 1 large potato, peeled and cut for 20 minutes, until the rice is cooked and the my children to study and to be able to do anything possible to into 1 in. chunks liquid is absorbed. earn a living.” 4 c. water Yvone wants to be a hairdresser so that she can earn Makes 6-8 servings 2 c. basmati rice money to help her family. She dreams of one day being able to buy a car and give rides to her family, so they won’t have to walk far distances.

LANDSCAPING DESIGN, INSTALLATION & MAINTENANCE

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Christ’s Gospel can satisfy hunger,thirst for justice, pope says Junno Arocho Esteves Catholic News Service VATICAN CITY — Amid a nationwide lockdown due to the coronavirus epidemic, Pope Francis soldiered on with his weekly general audience and called on people to not forget those who suffer from war and violence. During a live broadcast from the library of the Apostolic Palace March 11, the pope said he did not want “this sorrow, this epidemic, to make us forget the poor Syrians who are suffering on the border of Greece and Turkey.” Thousands of men, women and children have crowded the Turkish side of the Greek border after Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan opened the border to refugees and migrants until the European Union meets his demand to add some $3.5 billion in funding for the refugees’ stay in Turkey, in addition to the approximately $6 billion Turkey has already received. The action violates a deal Turkey struck with the EU to close its borders after 1 million migrants flooded into Europe from Turkey during the 2015-16 migrant crisis. Critics have accused Erdogan of weaponizing the Syrian refugee humanitarian crisis. The Syrian refugees are “people who have suffered for years, fleeing war, hunger and sickness,” the pope said. “Let us not forget our brothers and sisters, so many chil- dren suffering there.” Far from the crowded and festive atmosphere of the general audiences in St. Peter’s Square, the setting in the papal library was formal. The pope was flanked by two aides sitting a yard away from him on either side; eight translators also were present to read summaries of his main talk in a variety of languages. But the pope still took time, as he often does during the audience, to remember the sick, especially those infected with the coronavirus. “In this moment, I would like to greet the sick who are infected with the virus, those who suffer illness and the people who suffer uncertainty with their illness,” he said. He also thanked the countless doctors, nurses and health care volunteers who “are close to the people who suffer,” as well as those who are close to the afflicted and far from good, there is a hidden yearning for the light; CNS photo/Vatican Media Pope Francis leads the general audience from his library in through prayer. even if he or she is under the rubble of deception and “I thank all the Christians, all the men and women of error, there is always a thirst for truth and goodness, the Apostolic Palace at the Vatican March 11, 2020. With goodwill, who are praying in this moment,” the pope said. which is the thirst for God,” the pope said. precautions continuing to combat the coronavirus, the “All who are united no matter their religious belief, thank For this reason, he continued, the Church is called to pro- audience went forward without the usual crowds but was you for this effort.” claim the word of God to all because “the Gospel of Jesus broadcast live on television and streamed on the internet. The pope continued his series of talks on the Eight Christ is the greatest jus- Beatitudes by reflecting on the fourth beatitude, “Blessed tice that can be offered to are they who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they the heart of humanity, will be satisfied.” which has a vital need of it, Hunger and thirst, he explained, are not a mere “gener- even if (humanity) is not ic desire but a vital and daily need.” aware of it.” Jesus’ words, he added, aren’t addressed to those who “It is the Holy Spirit who seek revenge because “the hunger and thirst for justice of arouses this thirst,” Pope which the Lord speaks to us is even deeper than the legiti- Francis said. “He is the liv- mate need for human justice, which every man and woman ing water that has shaped carries in their heart.” our dust; he is the creative “In every heart, even in the person who is most corrupt breath that gave it life.” 8 March 20, 2020 Messenger PEOPLE AND EVENTS

Newsworthy Happy Birthday to Father Trinity Knight, parochial vicar, St. Paul Parish, Florence, March 24; Father Jeffrey VonLehmen, pastor, St. Patrick Parish, Taylor Mill, March 26; Msgr. William Neuhaus, retired, March 29; Father James Schaeper, parochial vicar, Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish, Burlington, March 30. Villa Madonna Academy junior Jackson Bond, Hebron, earned a perfect score of 36 on the ACT. Less than two- tenths of 1 percent of students who take the college entrance exam get a perfect score. The following seniors from the Diocese of Covington Catholic Schools qualified as National Merit Scholarship finalists: Bishop Brossart High School — Trey Spoonamore; Notre Dame Academy — Becky Hammill, Laura Neltner and Maddie Prospero; Holy Cross District High School — Grace M. Martin; Covington Latin School — Joseph Sodergren. Observing the judicial action The seventh-grade students in Patty Schlabach’s social studies classes at St. Joseph School, Cold Spring, recently visited Campbell District Court, Newport, to witness the judicial branch in action. Judge Karen Thomas welcomed the students to her courtroom to observe the arraignment docket. As the response to the COVID-19 virus evolves, events reconciliation will be available during the Holy Hour. The “Swing into Spring,” DCCH Center for Children and published here may have been cancelled. It is advisable next Holy Hour will be held Thursday, April 16. Families gala fundraiser, April 25, St. Elizabeth Training and to call the event sponsor before attending. Education Center, Ballroom, Erlanger. E-mail Big Blue Bash, March 27, 6:30 p.m.–midnight, Cincinnati [email protected] for details. The weekly TV Mass from the Cathedral Basilica of the Club. Benefits St. Agnes School, Ft. Wright. Assumption will be broadcast on Sunday, 5–6 p.m. on station NKU Catholic Newman Center Women’s Group, April 26. Me TV WLWT, on channels: over the air 5-2; Spectrum 188 in “Teen Pro-Life Apologetics,” March 28, 5 p.m., Immaculate Workshop and discussion, accountability partners. Email Kentucky and Cincinnati Bell 23 or 291. Heart of Mary Parish, Burlington. Mass, interactive lecture Kathryn at [email protected]. Have something to list in “People and Events”? The dead- and social. RSVP at www.marysprolifebootcamp.com. line for event notices is nine days prior to the desired publi- The Cathedral Ladies Society will lead the praying of the cation date. E-mail [email protected] no later than the “Art of the Passion of Christ,” April 5, 7 p.m., St. Catherine rosary May 4, 11, 18, 6:30 p.m. in the Cathedral gardens, Wednesday before the week you would like the information of Siena Parish, Ft. Thomas. Sacred art and sacred music Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption, Covington. to appear. presented by art historian Ceil Dorger, Ph.D. “Walking with Purpose” women’s Catholic Bible study Planning an event featuring a speaker or minister from Women’s Faith Sharing Group, April 15, 29, May 6, 13, 20 information session, May 5, 7 p.m., St. Thomas Parish, Ft. outside your parish? In the Diocese of Covington, before and 27, 7 p.m. Join other young adult women for meaningful Thomas. contracting the services of a priest or deacon, man or conversations about life, faith and women of the Bible. Holy woman religious, or lay person, a request for verification in Spirit Parish Center, Newport. To sign up contact Divine Wulfeck family honoring, May 8, 11:15 a.m. The Covington good standing must be submitted to the Chancery office no Providence Sister Leslie Keener at Catholic High School 2020 Northern Kentuckians of the Year later than four weeks before the desired date of service. [email protected]. will be honored at Northern Kentucky Convention Center. Screening applications and instructions can be found at For reservations visit www.covcath.org/NKYL or call 448- www.covdio.org/chancery/. Derby dinner, “Anything Goes,” April 16, sponsored by the 2247 ext. 3. St. Thomas Travelers. Cost $65; call 441-8567. There will be a Holy Hour on the third Thursday of every St. Thomas Travelers, St. Thomas Parish, Ft. Thomas, are month, at the Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption, Holy Cross District High School is selling 3 kinds of planning the following trips: May 14, Carillon Park trip to Covington, 3–4 p.m., to pray for victims of sexual abuse by mulch ($4.25/bag) and pine straw ($8/bale) with free delivery Dayton’s Heritage Center of Manufacturing and clergy and to pray for the Church. All priests of the diocese to addresses in Kenton, Boone and Campbell Counties. Entrepreneurship. Lunch included. Depart 9:30 a.m. Cost will be in attendance; the lay faithful are invited to join. The Deliveries April 24 – May 9. All proceeds benefit Holy Cross $72. May 28, Derby Dinner Dearly Beloved, cost $65. Call Blessed Sacrament will be exposed, concluding with the High School, Latonia. Go to wwww.hcmulch.com or call 392- Shirley Murray 441-8567. Chaplet of Divine Mercy and benediction. The sacrament of 8999.

Muffins with Mom Dr. Seuss Week Third-grade boys at Blessed Sacrament School, Ft. Mitchell, showed their mothers Second-grade students at St. Pius X School, Edgewood, spent a day at Camp Read-A-Lot to some extra love in the classroom this week during “Muffins with Mom.” celebrate the end of Dr. Seuss Week. Messenger March 20, 2020 9 PEOPLE AND EVENTS

Fish frys 2020

St. Augustine Parish, St. Joseph Parish, Covington, 4–7 p.m., Camp Springs, 4–7:30 p.m., April 3 and 10, in the gym. March 27, April 3. Call 431-3943. Carry-out, 635-2491. St. Barbara Parish, Knights of Columbus, Erlanger, 4:30–8 p.m., Elsmere, March 20, 27, April April 3 and 10. Drive thru 3 and 10. Lunch available. 11 a.m.– 2 p.m., dinner 4:30 p.m.– 8 p.m. 605 Lytle St. Benedict Parish, Avenue. Carryout orders: Covington, 4:45–7 p.m., 342-6643. April 3. Carryout available. Mary, Queen of Heaven St. Bernard Parish, Parish, Erlanger, 4–8 p.m., Dayton, 5–7p.m., April 3. March 27, April 3. Drive- Carryouts available, thru, call ahead 371-2622. The Cathedral Ladies Society will host a brunch, PrimeWise at St. Elizabeth Healthcare offers adults, age 50 638-4513. June 9, 11:15 a.m. at Covington Latin School forum, Covington. and over, a free network of valuable services especially suit- St. Patrick Parish, St. Catherine of Siena ed to their needs and interests. It’s not a club and there are Taylor Mill, March 20, 27 Parish, Ft. Thomas, Project Rachel, God’s greatest desire is to forgive. Come no membership dues or meetings, just lots of benefits, infor- and April 3, 4:30–7:30 p.m. 4:30–7:30 p.m., back to God who is love and mercy. Project Rachel hotline, mation, programs and special discounts. PrimeWise can pro- Call 356-5151. McCrystal Hall, March 20, (859) 392-1547 or e-mail [email protected]. All calls vide information on topics like advance directives and living 27, April 3. Our Savior Parish, and e-mails are confidential. wills, Medicare and many health-related concerns. Call 301- Covington, April 3, 5999 or e-mail [email protected]. Immaculate Heart of 12–6:30 p.m. Limited Mary Parish, Burlington, delivery to near by March 20, 27 and April 3. neighbors available, call 4:30–7:30 p.m. drive thru. the day before, 491-5872. St. Joseph Academy, Prince of Peace School, Walton, 4:30–8 p.m., March 5–8 p.m., April 3. Bake sale, 20, 27, April 3, drive-thru. carryout. Call 431- 5153. St. John the Evangelist Parish, Carrollton, 4–7 p.m., April 3.

Reusing resources Charlotte Boemker, Catholic Charities, visited with an elective class at St. Henry School, Elsmere, to talk about the Mercy Mats Ministry. Volunteers in this ministry transform plastic grocery bags into crocheted sleeping mats and pillows, which are then distributed to local people who are homeless. The students learned how the plastic bags are turned into “plarn” that can then be crocheted into each mat.

Red fish, blue fish Preschoolers at St. Timothy School, Union, celebrated Dr. Seuss Read Across America Week. They had a photo St. Patrick puppets booth where they posed as Thing 1 and Thing 2. First-grade students at St. Henry School, Elsmere, made St. Patrick’s Day puppets and held a parade in school on March 13. 10 March 20, 2020 Messenger

The Super’s New students learn about community, religion and recycling This year on the first day of school we Spotlight witnessed the “first step” of approximately 650 kindergarteners to our Catholic elementary schools and 740 freshmen to our Catholic high schools. Now their journey is well underway and they are counting their steps. In Catholic schools we have the unique privilege of being able to connect with students, each other and the entire community in a faith- filled environment that nurtures a sense of belonging. We do this most simply by how we treat the person in front of us. We celebrate our newest students to our K–12 grades and their new beginning of spiritual formation, academic Department of Catholic (above) The students in half-day Kindergarten at Blessed Sacrament School, Schools honors Ft. Mitchell, love seeing principal Dan Steffen and vice principal Jen Geiman advancement, social develop- kindergartners and freshmen in the classroom in the morning. ment and physical growth. Yours in Catholic Welcome to the 2019–2020 education, “Super’s Spotlight,” a Messenger feature created in collaboration Michael Clines with the diocesan Department of Superintendent Catholic Schools to celebrate of Catholic Schools Catholic education. This year, the Diocese of Covington Super Spotlight shines its light on elementary school kindergartners and high school freshmen.

(above) Kindergarten students at Holy Cross Elementary School, Covington, learned about the Stations of the Cross by constructing a diorama of each station. Their artwork is on display in the main hallway during Lent.

(right) Ron Dawn, principal, Newport Central Catholic High School, Newport, was the guest teacher for freshmen Health class to discuss stress and stressors.

(right) Kindergarteners (above) Kindergarten students at at St. Joseph St. Philip School, Melbourne, Academy, Walton, celebrated the 100th day of work during school by using empty plastic Religion class on water bottles to collect 100 items. a paper called “Jesus our (left) Katie Kurzendoerfer has a Savior” while strong bond with Villa Madonna singing “I want to Academy Elementary and her be like Jesus.” kindergarten class. Miss K., as she is affectionately known, is a 2009 Villa graduate, and she is the Villa JV/Varsity swim coach. Her kindergarten students love their reading corner, hands-on math manipulative toys, Brain Break dances and visits from Miss K.’s swimmers.

For more information about the Department of Catholic Schools, call (859) 392-1500 or e-mail [email protected]. Photo by Behzad Ghaffarian on Unsplash

SENIOR LIVING

SPECIALSECTIO NOFTHE MESSENGER MARCH 20, 2020 12 March 20, 2020 Messenger SENIOR LIVING St.Timothy parish provides reliable support The empty nest: one to homebound and hospitalized family’sreflections Allegra Thatcher people, for example, at church after Mass and you recog- Allegra Thatcher Assistant Editor nize them because you’ve seen them (in the hospital), and Assistant Editor Parishioners at St. Timothy Parish, Union, know they they’re just so appreciative that they were visited,” he said. When a close-knit family became an empty nest, one can count on their parish community to support them in Deacon Nolan explained that there is a system in place couple took steps to make the most of the experience. times of physical hardship. For over 15 years, the commu- to have extraordinary ministers of holy Communion Faye Roch, director of the Pro-Life Office of the Diocese nity has organized home and hospital visits, working with bring Communion to the homebound and hospitalized, of Covington, and her husband Paul have been married 34 outreach ministry and the Society of St. Vincent de Paul to whether they are short term or very sick. Some have been years. The last of their four children, ages 19-32, left home provide just about anything their parishioners need. receiving Communion at home for a year or longer. They last year and they’ve discovered the challenges and joys of Deacon Tom Nolan has led the hospital branch for also visit rehabilitation hospitals such as Gateway and living alone again. approximately 11 years, and for him it’s a daily ministry. Villa Spring, or hospitals further north such as Cincinnati “First of all you go through a grieving period because Every morning he checks in with three locations at St. Children’s Hospital if the family tells them someone is there’s a loss,” said Mrs. Roch. Elizabeth Healthcare — Ft. Thomas, Edgewood and there. “There’s a loss as a parent that your presence isn’t right Florence — to see who is in from the parish. He then gets There is a training process for St. Timothy’s volunteers, there all the time with them, knowing everything that’s their room numbers and coordinates who will go visit. but it’s fairly simple. Deacon Nolan said the group meets going on. But it’s also a loss of your companionship.” Deacon Nolan said he, his wife Jeanne Nolan and and explains what the new volunteers will experience Mrs. Roch said she experienced this with all of her chil- parishioner Jerry Auton are the primary hospital visitors, when they come into the hospital room and what to do. dren, probably more so with the oldest and youngest. Her but he makes contact with members in the group accord- “We give them the training as needed,” he said. “All the youngest daughter, a sophomore at Eastern Kentucky ing to who would be the best to visit. Meanwhile, over 20 people who help out are very open to praying with people.” University in Richmond, was very present with her during other parishioners pray for the hospitalized and agree on St. Timothy Parish also mentions each of the sick by her last years of living at follow-up visits. name in the prayers of the faithful during weekend home. From a young age Deacon Nolan follows up every single visit with a group Masses. she was involved in pro- e-mail detailing how the person is doing, how long he or Often, Deacon Nolan said, for elderly parishioners they life ministry, such as the she will be in the hospital and how the community can end up hospitalized more then once. “What happens often annual March for Life help the person moving forward. is that the person gets back in the hospital and knows we’ll that Mrs. Roch leads for “The whole point is to go to the people in the hospital come,” he said. “They love it.” the diocese. from the parish and let them know that we at St. Timothy Other parishes in the diocese with similar ministries “We had a very close are aware of their being in the hospital,” said Deacon include: relationship,” said Mrs. Nolan. “We pray with them in the room, we sometimes Blessed Sacrament Parish, Ft. Mitchell: Home-bound Roch. “When she left I bring them Communion … we make arrangements with ministry; was at a loss.” pastoral care at the hospital or a priest at the parish to ask St. Pius X Parish, Edgewood: Ministers of the Sick and But Mrs. Roch for the sacrament of the sick to be brought to them.” Homebound, Meal Preparation for the Sick; explained how she and “It’s been a tremendous impact when you bump into St. Barbara Parish, Erlanger: Hearts and Hands. her husband “realized this is an opportunity for us to have time just for us. We did things just the two of us that we haven’t been able to do.” She advises main- taining a balance of fam- ily visits and just enjoy- ing your spouse and Photo by John Moeses Bauan on Unsplash your time together. “I think a lot of parents fall into … putting more priori- ties on other things, going to sporting events or activities and family dinners,” she said. “Now it’s just the two of us, it’s been really good … we fell into the old person routine of having dinner and watching ‘our shows,’ Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy. But we also are able to do different activities with our parish, like the Cursillo community, or to volun- teer or go to visit my mom. We have a lot more freedom to do things with each other.” She said she wouldn’t call it a “honeymoon phase” because it’s different than when they were first married. But there’s still something special. “We’re a bit older and more relaxed and we’re reliving that early romantic part of our relationship, creating spe- cial moments, making dinner for each other,” she said. To keep the balance, Mr. and Mrs. Roch maintain a fam- ily tradition of dinner every week and their children know it, whether they come home or not. Especially for those clos- er by, the Rochs want to continue making family memories. One of the biggest comforts in sending children out into the world, said Mrs. Roch, is knowing they’ve been brought up in a faith community. “Our faith has played a very important part of ground- ing them. It’s been security for us, hoping that they make good choices. … We have to realize that it’s what we as par- ents do … we prepare our children to go off and to be inde- pendent adults who make good decisions.” For a family who raised their children attending Catholic school, it’s difficult to send their children to public college where they’re faced with decisions that may not align with how they’ve been brought up. But Mrs. Roch said they know that “they have our sup- port as a family and the support of their faith.” Another great comfort for the Rochs was the news, as their youngest was headed to college, that they would be grandparents. The addition of a grandchild has helped in that transition greatly. “And makes the girls come home more often,” smiled Mrs. Roch. Messenger March 20, 2020 13 SENIOR LIVING St.Charles offers free consults for seniors Local shrines, pilgrimages Ft. Thomas resident Nisi Staley had questions about and their families services and options for her mother, Marge Staley. to makeinKentucky Joe Jacobs “The staff at St. Charles was a huge support when, as a Allegra Thatcher Messenger contributor family, we were facing many difficult decisions for our Assistant Editor Seniors and their families face no more daunting task mom,” Staley said. “They provided us with much needed Northern Kentucky offers a number of little-known than to determine the proper care options for life’s latter support in so many areas — information/resources, actual shrines and inspiring pilgrimages to be made by the faith- stages. St. Charles Community offers a free service to the in-home care and emotional support. They truly helped ful. Here are just a few to consider visiting once travel community through its Resource Center for Aging. The make the last part of my Mom’s journey, which also restrictions in response to the COVID-19 have been lifted. free consultation service is included dealing with Alzheimer’s, as Until then, read up on these saints and find out what draws available for seniors and comfortable and secure as it could be.” people to these devotions. their families looking for The Resource Center for Aging is answers and options for sen- available to inform, educate and empower Our Lady of Knock Shrine, St. Patrick Parish, Taylor Mill iors’ care. seniors and their families who are in need The parish is designated as a shrine to Our Lady of Margie Volpenhein, St. of supportive services. Through informa- Knock and holds a large novena every year August 14-21 Charles’ Community tion, education and empowerment, St. leading up to the feast day on Aug. 21. The message of Our Liaison/LSW, has worked with seniors in the Northern Charles assists families to start a conversation about the Lady of Knock, when she appeared in 1879, is a certain Kentucky community for more than 30 years. various topics of aging as today’s seniors get older, live sign of God’s love to a people in need and a statue of Our “St. Charles has always been mission-driven with the longer and change what it means to age. Lady of Knock faces the windows of the tabernacle in the goal to serve not only those on our campus but in the com- By empowering seniors and their families, St. Charles’ adoration chapel. For nine days, pilgrims have a chance to munity as well,” Ms. Volpenhein said. mission is to help them make informed decisions and dis- attend Mass and pray the novena, light candles, write peti- St. Charles, which is a sponsored ministry of the cover the gamut of elder care services that can help allevi- tions and venerate a first-class relic of St. Faustina Sisters of Notre Dame for 56 years in Covington, focuses ate worry and stress. St. Charles’ Resource Center for Kowalska’s bone. The intentions stay on the altar during on five areas for families facing decisions about seniors’ Aging is exclusively for seniors and their families. the length of the novena and the parish also usually hosts care. “We understand the unique challenges that face the informative talks on the weeknights of the novena. The The five areas are: aging adult and how important it is to maintain safe inde- last Sunday hosts the Ancient Order of Ladies Hibernian — explaining the different levels of senior care options; pendence in spite of obstacles that may exist,” Ms. and the Hamilton County Ancient Order of Hibernian — exploring the various supportive services available Volpenhein said. Color Guard. to seniors in the community; She added that families can be overwhelmed when it — finding personal enrichment programs and support comes to care for their aging loved ones. That’s where St. Diocesan Shrine of the Little Flower, St. Therese groups; Charles can help. Parish, Southgate — answering questions about Medicare/Medicaid and “Sometimes it’s as simple as a conversation about their This shrine inaugurated a perpetual novena to the Long Term Care insurance policies and family’s situation whether it be over the phone or face-to- Little Flower on Tuesdays after morning mass. The reli- — listening to a family’s particular situation and offer- face,” Ms. Volpenhein said. “We will listen. We will help.” quary also hosts a first class relic on pubic display of St. ing appropriate advice. For more on St. Charles’ Resource Center for Aging, call Therese presented by Mother Agnes, her sister, to the “Many who call don’t know where to begin or even (859) 331-3224, ext. 1440 or e-mail mvolpenhein@stcharle- parish through Father Borgias Lehr in 1928, and the walls what questions to ask at such an unexpected and often try- scommunity.org. The service is free. of the parish hold ten restored paintings by Leon Lippert ing time in their lives,” Ms. Volpenhein said. This article was submitted by St. Charles Community. (Continued on page 14) 14 March 20, 2020 Messenger SENIOR LIVING

Local shrines and pilgrimages Kenton County Library has you (Continued from page 13) Messenger staff report of Newport depicting the life of St. Therese. The parishioners celebrate St. Therese’s covered If you’re looking for a local and easy way to keep learning new October 2 feast day with 40 hours before the Blessed Sacrament the weekend before the hobbies, the Kenton County Library is the place to be. Whether you’d prefer to be active or feast and sing a few special hymns on the day itself to honor their patron. This weekend just relax and talk about books, the library provides a community who shares your interests. celebration often brings over 300 people to Thatcher photo Weekly classes include health activities like Yoga Flow, Tai Chi and Sit & Fit or cultural Southgate. Photo by Sam Wheeler on Unsplash

Shrine to Our Lady of Schoenstatt, Relics, All Saints Parish, Walton The back of the sanctuary features a shrine to Our Lady of Schoenstatt, a devotion with origins in Germany and centered on the image of the Mother Thrice Admirable. Visitors can light a candle before her image and pray a consecration prayer or an exor- cism prayer through her intercession. She is known for her intercession for the family, and Schoenstatt youth movements exist across the world. The inside of the church is lined with statues of recent saints along the walls, such as St. Gianna Molla, Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati, St. Padre Pio, St. Faustina Kowalska and St. Teresa of Calcutta. Three of these activities like “Lunch and Learn” about Irish history, “Coffee and Conversation,” or an have relics beneath the statue and all have the AARP Tax Aide class. saint’s story written and framed below. The craft club ranges from jewelry to gardening décor, and the cooking class will provide you with some new recipes to spice up your kitchen. They also host computer and technology Abbey and Basilica of Our Lady of classes. If you’re feeling a bit more relaxed, have some fun learning about your genealogy, Gethsemani watching a movie or discovering new music. Home to Trappist monks, this community Kenton County Library is always looking for volunteers as well. If you’re an avid book is a place to remove oneself from the world. lover, maybe you can put some love back into the place where you’ve spent so much time. The abbey hosts retreats and day visits, pro- One form of volunteering is assisting with Homebound Delivery. This asset of the library viding meals (call ahead) and nature trails as serves the homebound and their caregivers with monthly deliveries. Once the homebound well as a chance to attend services and pray person shows proof of disability or medical condition, he or she can request books, maga- with the brothers. The Welcome Center fea- The shrine to Our Lady of Schoenstatt at zines, audio books, movies, games and music to be delivered to their home. Volunteers can tures a film about monastic life, books and All Saints Parish, Walton, is one of many help select books based on the person’s interests, and there are never overdue fines. products handmade by the brothers such as lesser-known devotions easily accessible to Call 962-4062 for more information about this service or to arrange the service for some- fudge, fruitcake and honey. parishioners in the Diocese of Covington. one you know.

We now provide respite care.

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TDD # 1-800-545-1833 100 Crossing Drive, Wilder, KY 41076 ext. 359 www.patientaids4u.com Messenger March 20, 2020 15 SENIOR LIVING SeniorsatMadonna Manor share life experiences and enrichment walking Prayer Path and expanded course, spiritual development where they can continue to opportunities with each other programming for vital senior living. grow in their faith. It’s everything we have right here on CHI Living Communities Madonna Manor, a senior liv- “We implemented the Body, Mind and Spirit Series that campus for seniors at all levels of care,” said Ms. Aichele. ing community in Villa Hills, offers independent living, brings music, speakers and programming, fitness classes Find out why we say home is here at Madonna Manor, assisted living, and memory care as well as providing such as yoga, and other fun activities throughout the year located in the highly desirable Villa Hills, Kentucky area skilled nursing and rehabilitation. It is one of the few con- such as car shows, bourbon and food tastings to our cam- on 2344 Amsterdam Road. Contact Madonna Manor for tinuing care communities in the area. In a continuing care pus. We also have an extensive spiritual program. Many of more information: call 426-6400 or go to community as residents’ age, seniors can stay in one loca- the programs are open to the community and residents,” www.homeishere.org. Visit the website to learn more tion with their friends and have all the services they need said Gretchen Aichele, executive director. about independent living and the value of our continuing to age gracefully on one campus. “Today’s seniors are looking for more than just living care community. One of Madonna Manor’s biggest assets is its skilled arrangements; they want to share life experiences and This article was submitted by CHI Living Communities nursing center. The skilled nursing center earned The enrichment opportunities with each other. Fine dining, Madonna Manor. Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval for Nursing new hobbies, cultural opportunities, fitness classes, and of Care Center Accreditation. It is one of only a few Gold Seal centers in northern Kentucky. The Gold Seal of Approval is a symbol of quality that reflects an organization’s com- mitment to providing safe and effective patient and resi- dent care. Seniors are enjoying the new Francis Residence at Madonna Manor, its new independent living Brownstones. The 24-unit apartment building includes exceptional amenities that today’s consumers are looking for, such as underground parking and high-end kitchens. The first of five duplexes that will provide ten individual villa homes for seniors is also under construction and scheduled for completion later in 2020. When the Madonna Manor campus was built in 2011, leaders studied what would be needed for the future for seniors in this area of Kentucky. First came the campus services needed for long-term care — assisted living, mem- ory care and skilled nursing with rehabilitation services in the main building. The main building also features areas for activities, dining options and a beautiful chapel for Catholic Masses and religious services for all faiths. Within the last few years, new amenities have included the Adelaide Center with a fitness facility and multi-pur- pose rooms, retention pond and relaxation garden area, a IgnatianVolunteer Corps provides significant service opportunities Linda Wihl Messenger Contributor Are you retired or an empty nester? Do you miss the sense of purpose you had when you were working, or when your kids were at home? Do you miss your cowork-

Volunteer Pat Borths serves at the Brighton Center Clothes Closet. ers, your kids, the companionship? Do you wonder: “Is God finished with me? Am I really over the hill?” The Ignatian Volunteer Corps is a great response to these questions. They help you find a sense of purpose (Continued on page 16) 16 March 20, 2020 Messenger SENIOR LIVING

week in the Clothes Closet at Brighton Center in Newport. recovery from addiction. Ignatian Volunteer Corps She greets donors, manages donations, and helps cus- “It is heartrending to know some of the horrific strug- (Continued from page 15) tomers fulfill their needs. gles our retreatants have experienced,” he said. “Violence, through meaningful service with those in need. “Her time dedicated to our agency has allowed us to abuse and neglect fuel the desire for the temporary com- The Ignatian Volunteer Corps (IVC) provides men and concentrate staff time to directly working with cus- fort of drugs and alcohol. Once addicted, the force of the women, age 50 or better, opportunities to serve others and tomers,” said Beth Hodge of Brighton Center. “She is person’s illness is so strong that many have done heinous to transform lives. IVC matches the talents of experienced extremely reliable, has professional skills and is a very things to support it.” Once retreatants are ready to change volunteers with the critical social needs of our time. You’ll friendly face to our customers.” their lives and realize they are in a safe place with people find companionship at your service site and at the monthly Ms. Hodge said Ms. Borths and Brighton Center have who have similar hopes and fears, they can reap great meetings with other volunteers. proved a great match. “Brighton Center has benefited rewards from sharing their stories, he said. IVC works in partnership with community organiza- greatly from this resource,” Ms. Hodge said. “We appreci- tions. Volunteers provide substantive work to serve indi- ate our partnership with IVC.” viduals who have slipped through the safety net. Agency IVC volunteer Tim Boyle, of Cold Spring, has been directors value our volunteers because of their level of men’s coordinator in Cincinnati for the Ignatian The Ignatian Volunteer Corps (IVC) commitment and experience. Spirituality Project for six years. In that role, he leads provides men and women, Take Pat Borths, who volunteers a day and a half each weekend retreats for men who are homeless and seeking age 50 or better, opportunities to serve others and to transform lives. From the Officeof Stewardship and Mission Services IVC matches the talents ‘But just as of experienced volunteers Planned Giving and with the critical social needs you excel the DioceseofCovington of our time.

Similarly, IVC volunteer Anne Shaffer directs the in everything Women’s Ignatian Spirituality Project in Cincinnati. The Stewardship: A Disciple’s Response, projects rely on a network of volunteer teams to respond to the spiritual needs of those making the retreats. Included – in faith, In their pastoral letter, the U.S. Bishops on the teams are men and women who themselves have experienced homelessness. Project personnel collaborate remind us that good disciples and stewards do the following: with individuals and agencies working to end the injustice in speech, of homelessness. What is unique about the Ignatian Volunteer Corps is that while their volunteers nurture others, IVC nurtures “As Christian stewards, we receive them. IVC provides them with training, coaching and the in knowledge, support community to sustain their commitment and com- passion in serving those in need. God’s gifts gratefully, cultivate them responsibly, They offer monthly group gatherings, at which volun- in complete teers reflect on their service experience, celebrate liturgy share them lovingly in justice with others, together, share a meal and participate in a book discus- sion. Twice a year they have group retreats (one in earnestness Eachandgenerationreturnof Catholicsthemis givenwithanincreaseimportant mission:to thehowLord.”do we pass November, one in May or June) with an inspiring retreat director. on the faith to the next generation? Foremost is evangelization — knowing Volunteers also have a chance to reflect on their experi- ence, sharing monthly with a spiritual director. They are and in your our faith well and sharing it with others. As important is the careful and strengthened in their Christian faith by IVC’s unique spir- prayerful sharing of our God-given resources. One of those resources — our itual reflection program, rooted in the Jesuit tradition of Ignatian spirituality. love for us – assets — includes the things we have accumulated over our lifetime. And they still have time for travel and grandkids. Interested in finding out more about IVC? Contact As Catholic Christians, we believe that our assets and our ability to accumu- Linda Wihl, Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky Regional see that you Director at [email protected] or (513) 477-3438. late them are gifts from a loving, generous God. We have a responsibility to Linda Wihl is regional director of Ignatian Volunteer use these gifts wisely and prudently — as well as to share them with others Corps. also excel — our family certainly, but also with those institutions devoted to spreading God’s reign on earth. in this grace Bequests in a will, charitable gift annuities, trusts, insurance and gifts of

of giving.’ appreciated stock are all planned gifts, or gifts that come after much thought and consultation with professional advisors. These important gifts will (2 Cor 8:7-9) ensure that our lives will touch the lives that come after us to build the faith for generations to come.

For more information on planned giving opportunities with the Diocese of

Covington or one of its ministries, please call the Office of Stewardship and Mission Services at (859) 392-1500 or email [email protected].

Office of Stewardship and Mission Services — Diocese of Covington 1125 Madison Avenue, Covington KY 41011-3115 (859) 392-1500 — (859) 392-1589 FAX — www.covdio.org

The Diocese of Covington does not provide advice on tax or legal matters. State and federal laws govern many types www.drdansheridan.com of planned giving, and the services of an attorney, accountant or other professional advisor should be attained.

Messenger March 20, 2020 17 SENIOR LIVING Don’t let hearing loss ruin your retirement Retirement often conjures up images of long days spent relaxing by the lake with no regard to a schedule. In reali- ty, those enjoying retirement are often busier than ever. Retirement has become a time of great social activity with family and friends. In addition, new and lifelong hobbies are given more priority, which can turn busy weeks into busy months. Continuous healthcare also fits into the puz- zle as the schedule becomes busier than before retirement. As it turns out, the common denominator between these activities is communication. While it’s rare not to hear people at all, you may find that you have some diffi- culty in noisy situations, feeling that people are just not talking clearly. Hearing loss is the third most common chronic health problem in older adults. By the time Americans reach their 70’s, two-thirds have hearing loss, affecting more than 48 million Americans. Not being able to chat comfortably with your grand- kids, neighbors and healthcare providers can increase daily stress and frustration, causing isolation and social withdrawal. According to the Hearing Loss Association of America, it may increase the risk of cognitive problems such as dementia. “The general perception is that hearing loss is a rela- tively inconsequential part of aging,” says Frank Lin, an otologist and epidemiologist at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore. But recent findings, he says, suggest that it may play a much more important role in brain health than we’ve pre- viously thought. Once hearing loss began to interfere with the ability to communicate, the risk for dementia increased, the study found. Dr. Peele, the author of a recent study from the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, says, “Preserving your hearing doesn’t only protect your ears, but also helps your brain perform at its best.” People with heart disease are 54 percent more likely to have hearing loss. Why? The inner ear is sensitive to blood flow, and insufficient blood flow can cause significant trau- ma. According to researchers at Harvard University, the delicate nature of hearing nerves may cause them to be more susceptible to damage by cardiovascular disease. Hearing loss is twice as common in adults suffering from diabetes compared to those without diabetes, a recent study by the National Institute of Health found. As the rate of diabetes increases, “the disease may become a more significant contributor to hearing loss,” reported study senior author, Catherine Cowie. Diabetes damages the nerves and blood vessels of the inner ear, which can cause hearing loss. Hearing and vestibular function are closely linked and both systems reside in the inner ear. The vestibular sys- tem is responsible for controlling a person’s balance. A mild degree of hearing loss triples the risk of an acciden- tal fall, with the risk increasing as the level of hearing loss increases. When needed, hearing aids can increase the ability to maintain balance twice as long as without. Other conditions that are often associated with difficulty hear- ing are falls, depression and ringing in the ears. Common signs of hearing loss include misunderstand- ing words, turning up the television volume, and embar- rassment in social situations from not being able to keep up with conversations. The inability to hear can cause iso- lation and withdrawal. Hearing loss not only affects the individual but everyone they come in contact with. Family members feel sad and frustrated when their loved one can’t communicate the way they used to. Unfortunately, only 1 in 5 people with a hearing loss wears a hearing aid, according to the National Institute of Deafness and Other Communications Disorders. Today’s hearing instruments are lightweight and discreet, with cutting edge digital technology. A simple hearing test is the first step toward getting the answers that will set you on the road to enjoying retirement to its fullest. Call today for a free consultation. This article submitted by Luhn Hearing Care. 18 March 20, 2020 Messenger SENIOR LIVING Confinedtoyour home? Archbishop recommendsaprayer routine Marnie McAllister Also, the Office of Multicultural Ministry has suggested Contributor Catholics pray the rosary as a family each day at 7 p.m. or 9 Times of uncertainty are times to stay p.m. — a sort of prayer network for protection against the especially close to Christ and one another — coronavirus. though not necessarily in close physical Other suggestions range from traditional devotions to proximity, said Archbishop Joseph E. Kurtz. setting aside time for a conversation with God. The Archbishop of Louisville has Some ideas use technology, such as a smartphone app encouraged those who are sick or vulnera- that helps you pray the Liturgy of the Hours. ble to stay home from church and find other Explore the list, below: ways to be in communion with Christ. At Home: First, he said, set aside time for prayer. • Watch Mass of the Air “We are at our best when we pray for one • Pray the rosary with Archbishop Kurtz on WLCR 1040 another. Include in your prayer — by specific AM (Weekdays at 8 a.m. and weekends at 5 p.m.) name — others you know who may be in • Organize via phone a novena to Saint Bernadine of greater difficulty,” he suggested. Siena (patron saint of those with respiratory illnesses). “When we have a lot of time on our • Set aside simple quiet time for conversation with God, hands, it’s easy not to know what to do with offering intentions and thanksgiving. it. I urge people to take time each day to pray • Pray the Memorare for Mary’s intercession. a devotion.” • Listen to or sing your favorite worship songs Secondly, the archbishop recommended from Mass. people establish a balanced routine. • Pray the Divine Mercy Chaplet and other devotions. “I think we need to have just the right • Pray the Liturgy of the Hours. amount of contact with news media. Just “It allows the creative aspect of our spiritual life to have • Pray the Stations of the Cross (at home with a crucifix). enough to know what’s happening and what needs to be room and take root,” he said. • Read The Lives of the Saints or other spiritual done, but not so much that all 24 hours are consumed with A similar schedule of activities, he added, is important literature. reports,” he said. for children, too, while school is suspended for the next few • Pray the Angelus at 6 a.m., noon and 6 p.m. “This is a very important part of establishing some rou- weeks. • Read Scripture for difficult times, such as Sirach 2:1-18. tine.” Since “we don’t have the structure of schools, we have to • Find daily prayer and readings from giveusthisday.org. He suggested deciding on a particular time of day for be creative to come up with some life-giving routines that For children: certain prayers and reading sacred Scripture, as well as set- include reading and proper prayer.” — Teaching Catholic Kids, from Our Sunday Visitor — ting aside time for household chores, reading a book and Archbishop Kurtz and church workers helped compile a teachingcatholickids.com doing creative activities. list of a variety of ways adults, children and families can — Arts, crafts, and activities for home & school inspired “Often on retreat, I have the opportunity to do what I call use the next few weeks to grow spiritually and keep a by our faith — www.catholicinspired.com journaling, he said, noting he puts pen to paper and “speak healthy routine. Marnie McAllister is editor of The Record, the Catholic from my heart.” The list includes watching the Mass of the Air on newspaper of the Archdiocese of Louisville, Ky. This article These writings can be sparked by a Scripture reading, a Sundays and praying the rosary with Archbishop Kurtz, originally appeared online at TheRecordNewspaper.org and visit he’s had or even something he saw on television, he whose prayer is aired on WLCR 1040 AM Holy Family Radio has been reprinted with permission. said. at 8 a.m. weekdays and 5 p.m. on weekends.

**Voted “Best Doctors” 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018

Michael S. Jean Saif Chris D. Joseph T. Halpin, MD Noll, MD Jaweed, MD Thon, OD Mando, MD Messenger March 20, 2020 19

Seven Minnesota couples have their civil unions convalidated Dave Hrbacek Clare and Charlie Urbia civilly united in December. ing was their daughter, Angelina, 9, who started going to Catholic News Service Clare, who is 38 and a lifelong Catholic, talked to Father the parish school in December. WACONIA, Minn. — There was a buzz before the 5:15 Mader shortly after their civil ceremony and was invited “She really wanted to know more about God,” said Amy p.m. Mass Feb. 22 at St. Joseph Church in Waconia as seven to the Feb. 22 Mass. Olivieri, 42. “We weren’t doing our job in that. When we couples with corsages and floral bouquets gathered for the “I was just thrilled to reconcile this with the Church,” toured the campus and the school, she loved it. So, really, processional with Father Stan Mader, the pastor. After walking up the aisle to the sanctuary, Father Mader told the congregation that this Mass would be called “My Big, Fat Catholic Wedding.” Playing on the title of the 2002 romantic comedy, Father Mader explained that seven couples who had been united in civil ceremonies would have their civil unions convali- dated — celebrating the sacrament of marriage according to the rites of the Church — during the Mass. He came up with the idea several months ago while talking with parish staff members about how to reach out to couples in civil unions. They searched their parish and school files to identify couples who had not gotten married in the Church, then invited them to have their unions con- validated during Mass. Nine couples accepted, with seven able to make the special event. “Behind it all is wanting to support sacramental mar- riage,” Father Mader said. To prepare, couples were offered a three-hour session on marriage in the Church. Meanwhile, parishioners were notified of the event in the parish bulletin. A parishioner donated money for an after-Mass dinner. Another parishioner, Dana Young, a professional photog- rapher, volunteered to photograph the couples. And, one of the 14 involved in the ceremony, Regina Treml, a profes- sional florist, provided bridal bouquets. “I just thought that way we could make it more of a cer- emony,” said Regina Treml, 48, owner of Belladonna Florist in Eden Prairie, Minnesota. Regina and her hus- band, Tony, were civilly united in 2003 and have a son, John, who is a sixth grader at St. Joseph School. They wanted to be married in the Church, “…especially with John going through the school and learning more about the sacraments,” Regina Treml told The Catholic Spirit, newspaper of the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis. CNS photo/ Dave Hrbacek, Catholic Spirit In addition to being married in the Church, Anthony Michelle and Patrick Borland join the recessional at the end of Mass at St. Joseph Church in Waconia, Minn., where they, Hauck became a Catholic during the Mass. He was con- along with six other couples, had their civil union convalidated Feb. 22, 2020. firmed and received his first Communion, and in between those sacraments, had his 14-year marriage to Trishia Clare Urbia said. “You want to be in that state of grace this was driven by her.” blessed. when you receive the Eucharist. I just really wanted to do Anne Reiner came to the Mass with her family. She said “It’s very overwhelming,” said Anthony Hauck, 43. “It’s that.” she felt “uplifted” watching the couples become married been a long time in the making. ... It feels great.” For Justin and Amy Olivieri, the impetus for participat- according to the Church. “I just think marriage is something that kind of falls by the wayside these days,” she said. “So, I think ... to take that extra step to make it a sacramental marriage is just heartwarming.”

Pope prays for pastors (Continued from page 1) “It is a story of unfaithfulness, of unfaithfulness to the election, of unfaithfulness to the promise, of unfaithful- ness to the covenant, which is a gift,” the pope said. “These people appropriated the gift and took away this being a gift in order to transform it into ‘my’ property.” Through his parable, the pope continued, Jesus wanted to show that in this way, God’s promise “lost its nature as a gift” and ended up becoming a moralistic ideology that “was closed and caged in a doctrine of laws.” “This is the great sin,” he said. “It is the sin of forget- ting that God has made himself a gift for us, that God has given us this gift and in forgetting this, we become mas- ters. Thus, the promise is no longer a promise, the election no longer an election. ‘The covenant is interpreted accord- ing to my ideologized opinion.’” Pope Francis said that in the Gospel, Jesus confronted “the beginning of clericalism, which is a perversion that always renounces the free election of God, the free covenant of God, the free gift of God.” “Clericalism isn’t something that’s just today, rigidity isn’t something just today, it was already there in Jesus’ time,” he said. “Let us ask the Lord today for the grace to receive the gift as a gift and to transmit this gift as a gift and not as a property, not in a sectarian way, a rigid way, a ‘clericalistic’ way.” 20 March 20, 2020 Messenger

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ness that residents could be experiencing and are adjust- A stepped-up guideline the CDC issued March 13 Nursing homes respond ing accordingly. included the restriction of all volunteers and nonessential (Continued from page 2) St. Charles Community staff has been helping resi- health care personnel at nursing homes and long-term restrictions have increased and for an unknown period, it dents communicate with their family via FaceTime or care facilities and the cancellation of all group activities is hard to know what lies ahead. video chats — this is new for many residents. and communal dining. Underhill stressed that it is an “unusual situation” with “It’s been fun to see them say, ‘Wow, I can see you on the The loss of visits and communal atmosphere has raised fluid guidance requiring everyone to be flexible to stop the screen!’” Ms. Smith said. concerns about the mental health and stability of seniors spread of the virus. She also mentioned the concern for Staff members are also spending a little extra time fix- during this time of heightened concern for their physical staff members, especially since many of them have school- ing a resident’s hair and makeup or just talking. health. age children. Schools in the state closed March 15 due to “I am always in awe of our staff, they always rise to the The restrictions should remind people all the more to virus concerns. occasion,” Ms. Smith said. “The safety of the residents keep in touch with family members or those they know in “Every day is a new situation,” she added. always comes first and they want to be here for them and nursing homes or assisted-living centers, by phone or e- The Diocese of Covington is home to three Catholic are doing extra little things for them.” mail or social media if that platform is used. nursing homes or senior living communities: Carmel For community members or school children who now Donna Buxton, head of research at the International Manor, Ft. Thomas; Madonna Manor, Villa Hills; and St. find themselves out of the classroom and would also like to Longevity Center in Westminster, England, said the coron- Charles Community, Ft. Wright. All three facilities say that do a little extra during this stressful time, Ms. Smith said, avirus outbreak could be a chance for society to reset its they are adhering to recommendations of Governor Andy “We welcome cards and positive thoughts —we love mail.” relationship with older people. Beshear, the Center for Disease Control and the Northern And, if you have a relative or a friend at one of the care “The kind of things we should be doing to support older Kentucky Health Department and are currently operating facilities that you haven’t talked to in awhile, now would be people are the kind of things we should be doing anyway, under very strict restrictions. These restrictions include a good time to give them a call. coronavirus outbreak or not,” she told The Telegraph, a limiting access to the building to staff and medical person- “Residents can still accept phone calls,” Ms. Smith said. British daily newspaper. nel. Even immediate family members of residents are not As of March 15, 29 residents from a Kirkland, The Messenger staff contributed to this article. permitted to enter. Washington, nursing home at the epicenter of a Seattle- “That’s not easy,” said Nichole Smith, administrator, St. area outbreak had died from COVID-19 symptoms. Charles Community. “Everybody has been wonderful, but it’s emotionally hard for all of us.” Additionally, anyone coming into the facility receives a medical screening — their temperature is taken and they allows for serious reasons such as illness. are evaluated for respiratory symptoms. Diocese responds Additionally, on March 12, President Joe Chillo, Inside the facility all group activities have been can- (Continued from page 1) Thomas More University, sent a message to University and celled, including congregating for Mass. At Madonna “Our Catholic schools are such wonderful places to community members advising that he was extending Manor, a priest resident celebrates Mass and the Mass is spring break for most students through Sunday, March 22. broadcast locally to residents on the TV in their rooms. At grow spiritually, educationally, emotionally, physically and socially,” Mr. Clines wrote. “It is at times like this that the After the break, the university would shift to remote learn- St. Charles Community, the staff makes sure that residents ing using Canvass for all classes beginning Monday, March can watch Mass in their rooms. foundation of our Catholic faith … will provide us with the wisdom and courage to meet any challenge.” 23. Classes that are already online and 8-week courses that “Having Mass is the big reason residents come to St. began on Monday, March 16, will continue as scheduled Charles,” said Ms. Smith. “Mass is very, very important so On Wednesday, March 11, Bishop Foys and the other three bishops of Kentucky responded to Governor and will be exclusively online. All University sponsored this is a real sacrifice.” events are canceled through April 13. Mass will continue Ms. Smith said that residents who are aware of the pan- Beshear’s recommendation to cancel worship services. Noting the liturgical guidelines that were put in place ear- as scheduled but will be limited to no more than 75 guests. demic are appreciative of the measures that have been put “As we address how best to handle this situation, our in place. But the staff is aware of the burden and loneli- lier in the month, the four bishops, based on the informa- tion they had at the time, did not call for diocesan-wide main priority is to protect the well-being of our students, cancellation of Masses. faculty, staff and the community,” President Chillo wrote. “The Sunday celebration of the Eucharist is at the cen- “Thomas More University is committed to finishing the ter of the life of the Church. Perhaps especially in difficult spring semester and providing our students the academic times, liturgical gatherings are a source of comfort and instruction necessary to fulfill their degree require- hope for the faithful, as well as an opportunity to offer our ments.” prayers to God for those who are suffering or who cannot And, on Sunday, March 15 in an e-mail to members, be with us,” the response read. Donna Heim, campus minister, NKU Newman Club said The bishops reiterate — and implore pastors to remind that there are to be no meetings or gatherings (or hanging the faithful — that anyone who is ill, has symptoms or has out) in the Newman Center for at least the next two weeks. an underlying health condition are not obligated to attend This is in response to Bishop Foys’ and NKU’s instruction Sunday Mass. to cancel such meetings and gatherings. Bishop Foys’ first communication to priests, deacons, “Blessings come from obedience,” wrote Mrs. Heim. religious houses and diocesan institutions (including the “Absence makes the heart grow fonder and hopefully NKU Catholic Newman Club and Thomas More resolves the coronavirus quickly. Hope you make the best University) detailed guidelines for celebrating the Mass of this Lenten sacrifice.” and liturgies. For all of these communications and any updates, which These guidelines include refraining from the use of can happen quickly, visit www.covdio.org and click on the holy water fonts, distribution of holy Communion from link to the Public Health Concerns page. the chalice, reception of holy Communion on the tongue and physical contact at the sign of peace. It also instructs that priests, deacons, altar servers and extraordinary min- • Air-Conditioned ST. CECILIA isters of holy Communion must use an alcohol-based anti- • Capacity 400 bacterial solution before and after distributing Holy CHURCH HALL Communion. • Beer License 5313 Madison Pike, Independence This first communication also reminds priests to • Non-Smoking Receptions, Dances, Parties encourage the faithful who are sick or who are experienc- • Open to all ing symptoms to stay home; they are not obliged to attend Mass, that the Catechism of the Catholic Church #2181 Call 363-4311 for details

NOVENA

SACRED HEART PRAYER. Dear Heart of Jesus — In the past I have asked for favors. This time I ask you for this very special one (mention favor). Take it, dear Jesus, and place it within your own heart where your Father sees it, then in your merciful eyes it will become your favor, not mine. Amen. M.A.I. 22 March 20, 2020 Messenger ENTERTAINMENT

“Bloodshot” (Columbia) Vin Diesel plays a Marine Jeremy Camp and the fellow college student for whom he whose macho dreams come true when a doctor uses nan- fell in love with at first sight. Their relationship is initially Pro-life bills putonhold otechnology to bring him back from the dead and endows hindered by the fact that his friend and professional mentor, (Continued from page 2) him with superhuman fighting abilities in the process. He an already established singer, also loves the young lady. But dents qualify for free and reduced lunches and therefore employs his new pow- a much greater challenge arises later when she is diagnosed the entire school community receives free breakfasts and ers to track down and with cancer. In keeping with the song and book from which lunches. Additionally 30 other schools also have students Movie slay the crazed assas- the movie takes its title, nondenominational affirmations of that qualify for the school lunch program. Capsule sin who killed both his faith permeate the ups and downs of the tale as well as the Catholic schools in the diocese already educate over beloved wife and him. musical interludes by which it’s paced, making this congen- 1,000 students with diagnosed learning disabilities. “The But, as the fellow ial fare for Christians of various stripes while the absence majority of our schools have teachers dedicated to stu- patient for whom the of objectionable elements renders it suitable for all but the dents with special needs. Many are certified in special edu- widower rapidly falls knows, all is not as it seems. Director youngest moviegoers. Mature themes, brief medical gore, a cation or have training related to various learning needs David S.F. Wilson’s passable Valiant Comics adaptation couple of marital bedroom scenes. CNS: A-II; MPAA: PG. such as autism or ADHD,” Mrs. McGuire said. mostly avoids gore but the warrior’s drive for revenge is Every parent —regardless of income or address — only partially made less problematic by twisty plot develop- “Onward” (Disney) Using a spell, two teenage elven should be able to choose the school that meets their child’s ments. A vengeance theme, much harsh but bloodless vio- brothers bring their father back from the dead for 24 hours. educational needs, said Mr. Vandiver. And while no mem- lence, a few gruesome images, a marital bedroom scene But the magic goes awry so that he is only resuscitated from ber of the General Assembly would accept sending their with partial nudity and some sensuality, about a dozen uses the waist down. To acquire the mystical gem that can restore own child to a school that did not meet their needs, “cer- of profanity, one milder oath, a single rough term, consider- him fully, they embark on a hazardous quest, trailed by their tain members expect other families to watch their chil- able crude and crass language. CNS: A-III; MPAA: PG-13. fiercely protective mom, her centaur boyfriend who’s a dren fall through the cracks,” he said. police officer, and a lion-like creature who has the ability to Polls show that 62 percent of Kentuckians support “The Hunt” (Universal) Clever commentary on contem- defeat the dragon that, unbeknownst to the boys, guards the Scholarship Tax Credits. It is time to know where mem- porary political and cultural divisions in the United States jewel they seek. Though it reaches a heartwarming conclu- bers of the General Assembly stand, said Mr. Vandiver. is lost amid an orgy of bloodletting as a group of elite fat sion, director and co-writer Dan Scanlon’s animated adven- “Contact your senator and representative today, even if cats hunt a dozen kidnapped red-state types for sport, only ture is loaded down with an overly detailed mythos, values you have already done so, and demand that they put to discover too late that one of them is prepared to put the focused primarily on self-empowerment and a passing allu- Scholarship Tax Credits to a vote. If they are going to combat skills she learned while serving in Afghanistan to sion to a same-sex oppose educational freedom for Kentucky good use against them. As scripted by Nick Cuse and relationship that, families, they should at least be willing to do For full reviews of each of these films — go to catholic- Damon Lindelof, director Craig Zobel’s parable is deliber- though brief, amounts so in the light of day by voting on the bill.” news.com and click on “Extras,” then choose “Movies.” ately outrageous in its gruesome portrayal of characters to propaganda aimed Under normal circumstances, Mr. Hall Catholic News Service (CNS) classifications are: being maimed and killed. But the overall effect is more at youthful viewers. said, the public would see results from all • A-I — general patronage; sadistic than satiric. Excessive gory violence, frequent pro- Occult themes, consid- these bills fairly quickly. With the closure of • A-II — adults and adolescents; fanities, a few milder oaths, pervasive rough and crude lan- erable peril, a refer- most public events, however, it will be a longer • A-III — adults; guage, a bit of sexual humor. CNS:O; MPAA: R. ence to homosexuality, wait until these bills receive a vote. Updates • L — limited adult audience; one mild scatological will be posted in the Messenger as legislation “I Still Believe” (Lionsgate) Fact-based romantic joke. CNS: A-III; • O — morally offensive. makes further progress. drama tells the love story of future Christian music star MPAA: PG. SHOPPER’S GUIDE

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National/World Homeland Security at the border crossing in San Diego and it Soil” Mass in February at BH Genetics in Ganado. The Mass initially was limited to asylum-seekers from Guatemala, was a seasonal complement to the first harvest Mass celebrated Honduras and El Salvador. The policy was expanded to cross- this past fall. Not only was the outdoor Mass blessed with sun- Pope entrusts world threatened by ings in Calexico, California, and four Texas cities: El Paso, shine and mild temperatures, the business of rural life was evi- coronavirus pandemic to Mary Eagle Pass, Laredo and Brownsville. It also was expanded to dent all around — in the sights of the tilled up rows of dirt and include more people from Spanish-speaking countries such as tractors parked nearby and the sound of nearby crop dusters at VATICAN CITY — Pope Francis entrusted to Jesus’ mother Brazil. The Trump administration appealed to the Supreme work. Bishop Cahill, the current board president of the nation- the suffering and anguish of millions of people affected by the Court for relief from a Feb. 28 decision by a panel of the 9th al Catholic Rural Life organization, said during his homily that coronavirus pandemic. In a video message broadcast March 11, U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in San Francisco that upheld a Catholic Rural Life was centered around, faith, community and the pope prayed before a portrait of Our Lady of Divine Love, lower court injunction on the policy. care of creation. “What a particular joy for me to celebrate this beseeching her to “not disdain the entreaties of we who are in Mass today,” he said as he prayed for families, farms and trial” but to “deliver us from every danger. We entrust our- Summit held to address Church’s ‘twin parishes. He also stressed the importance being a blessing to selves to you, Health of the Sick, who at the cross took part in others and blessing God with a grateful heart for providing Jesus’ pain, keeping your faith firm,” the pope prayed. “You, crises’ of abuse, leadership failure what we need each day. As part of the Feb. 1 celebration, the Salvation of the Roman People, know what we need, and we WASHINGTON — A summit of U.S. Catholic leaders was bishop extended his hands over the bags of seeds brought by are sure you will provide so that, as in Cana of Galilee, we may convened recently in Washington “to continue to respond to people from all around the diocese and asked God’s blessing on return to joy and to feasting after this time of trial.” The pope’s the twin crises in our Church, a crisis of abuse and a crisis of them, then sprinkled holy water on the offering. It was a per- video message was aired on TV2000, the television channel of leadership failure,” said Kim Smolik, CEO of the Leadership fect symbol of how the Catholic Rural Life wants to ensure that the Italian bishops’ conference, and the Diocese of Rome’s Roundtable, which organized the gathering. The Catholic faith is instilled in all parts of life. Facebook page. Cardinal Angelo De Donatis, papal vicar of Partnership Summit, held Feb. 28-29, had as its theme, “From Rome, celebrated a Mass at Rome’s Shrine of Divine Love that Crisis to Co-Responsibility: Creating a New Culture of Hebda: Honor those who support life, was aired live after the pope’s message. The Mass, according to Leadership.” It drew 260 Catholic leaders from 63 U.S. dioceses, the Diocese of Rome, capped a day of prayer and fasting for the including bishops, diocesan staff, Catholic university presi- not those who ‘purposefully end’ it city and for Italy, which has been under a government-mandat- dents, corporate leaders, abuse survivors, philanthropists and ST. PAUL, Minn. — Minnesota’s archbishop said he was ed lockdown to contain the spread of the coronavirus. more than 30 young adults. Speaking in a news conference call “profoundly saddened” that elected officials in St. Paul and with three other summit participants, Smolik noted that the Minneapolis declared March 10 Abortion Provider Pope updates Vatican City State Leadership Roundtable was founded after the 2002 sexual abuse Appreciation Day. “Given that each human life is created in the judicial system crisis “to transform the leadership and management culture in image and likeness of God and has value, to honor those who our Church.” Leadership Roundtable, based in the nation’s cap- purposefully end such life is an affront not only to our Creator VATICAN CITY — Pope Francis updated the laws that gov- ital, is an organization of laity, religious and clergy that but to the foundational values of civil society,” Archbishop ern the Vatican judicial system in an effort to establish greater describes its mission as promoting “best practices and account- Bernard A. Hebda of St. Paul and Minneapolis said in a March transparency and independence, particularly in financial and ability in the management, finances, communications and 10 statement. “There is no way around it — abortion kills chil- criminal matters. The pope said the new measures, issued human resources development of the Catholic Church in the dren.” He continued: “What gives me hope, however, are the “motu proprio,” on the pope’s own accord, March 16, are meant U.S., including greater incorporation of the expertise of the countless women and men of goodwill who tirelessly give of to emphasize that the administration of justice is not just a laity.” The organization offers programs, collections of best themselves to accompany women in crisis pregnancies, love “temporal necessity. The cardinal virtue of justice, in fact, practices and consulting services tailored for dioceses, reli- and assist moms and babies, and work to create a culture of enlightens and synthesizes the very purpose of the judicial gious communities, parishes, and for Catholic schools, chari- life in our communities and in our world. It is those people we power proper to each state in order to cultivate the personal, ties and organizations. The summit had panels on envisioning should be honoring.” The day fell in the middle of 40 Days for generous and responsible commitment of those invested with a new culture of leadership in the Church, building a culture Life Twin Cities, Feb. 26-April 5, during which pro-life advo- the jurisdictional function which is, above all, essential,” the of ethical financial management and stewardship, and inviting cates pray 6 a.m.-6 p.m. outside Planned Parenthood in St. Paul. pope wrote. The updated laws will replace the previous legisla- young adults to the leadership table, followed by roundtable On March 4, St. Paul’s seven City Council members unani- tion on the Vatican’s judicial system issued by St. John Paul II discussions among the participants. mously approved the resolution to have the observance. in 1987. The Vatican press office said that the updated law was Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey declared March 10 that necessary in the wake of financial, economic and criminal reg- Priest in Diocese of Yakima Minneapolis was joining St. Paul in officially recognizing the ulatory reforms, as well as the Vatican’s “accession to impor- day as Abortion Providers Appreciation Day. tant international conventions.” hospitalized with coronavirus YAKIMA, Wash. — A priest of the Diocese of Yakima has Supreme Court says ‘Remain in been hospitalized for two weeks with COVID-19, the disease El Salvador marks 43rd anniversary of Mexico’ policy can be enforced for now caused by the coronavirus. Father Alejandro “Alex” Trejo, pas- tor of Our Lady of the Desert Parish in Mattawa, Washington, Jesuit’s martyrdomasbeatification looms WASHINGTON — The U.S. Supreme Court in a brief written continued to be treated for pneumonia caused by the virus, WASHINGTON — Even as the government of El Salvador order March 11 granted the Trump administration’s request to Bishop Joseph J. Tyson of Yakima said March 16 . The 48-year- announced a nationwide quarantine, hundreds flocked to a pil- continue to enforce its “Remain in Mexico” policy while it old priest has been in Kadlec Medical Center in Richland, grimage site March 12 to remember a Jesuit priest and his appeals a lower court’s ruling blocking enforcement to the high Washington, since March 1, according an announcement by the companions killed 43 years ago and declared martyrs by Pope court. The 2019 Migrant Protection Protocols, as the policy is diocese. “Father Alex continues to recover well and we are Francis in February. A Mass for Salvadoran Jesuit Father formally known, require asylum-seekers to stay in Mexico appreciative of the prayers of many, many parishioners and Rutilio Grande at the site where he was martyred along with while their cases make their way through U.S. immigration the excellent care of the hospital staff,” Bishop Tyson said in a two parishioners March 12, 1977, near his hometown of El courts. The court’s order noted that Justice Sonia Sotomayor statement. “We also are very thankful for the work of the Paisnal, was canceled after the government prohibited gather- would have denied the administration’s request. “Remain in Grant County Health District.” The diocese was working with ings of more than 250 as a precaution to prevent coronavirus Mexico” was first implemented by the Department of health district staff to identify the people with whom Father from spreading. Instead, the Archdiocese of San Salvador Trejo has been in close contact within the last month, the dio- asked parishes to celebrate “our martyrs” in their respective cese said. The coronavirus was confirmed as the cause of localities. The three were murdered en route to a novena to cel- Father Trejo’s illness late March 15, following a third test by ebrate the feast of St. Joseph, though the main target was the health district. Two earlier tests were inconclusive, the dio- Father Grande, killed because he helped the poor. In his efforts cese said. to teach the poor to read using the Bible, Father Grande also organized them so they could speak against a rich and power- Texas bishop offers prayersofgratitude ful minority: the coffee farmers and landowners, who oppressed them. On March 12, the Salvadoran Catholic TV sta- for rural life, what farms provide tion Television Catolica showed hundreds headed to the church GANADO, Texas — Catholic Rural Life ministry is nothing where Father Grande is buried, along with elderly parishioner new, but it had gained a new energy in the past few years as Manuel Solorzano and teenager Nelson Rutilio Lemus, who new chapters of the organization emerge and more intentional died with him. The Vatican announced Feb. 22 that Pope outreach is provided to nurture the faith in rural vocations. Francis has recognized their martyrdom. Papal recognition of That outreach was exemplified as Bishop Brendan J. Cahill cel- their martyrdom clears the way for their beatification, ebrated the Diocese of Victoria’s first “Blessing of Seed and although the Vatican has not announced a date or place for the ceremony.