December 13, 2019 In This Issue ESSEESSENGERNGER M Serving the Diocese of Covington, Kentucky since 1926

2 The history of the Cathedral’s nativity Christmas at the Cathedral The famed Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption 3 St. Joseph Apartments créche will be erected and the Cathedral decorated for the Christmas season on Dec. 23. From homeless to hopeful Like the Magi who over 2,000 years ago, “Saw his star at its rising and have come to do 6 Live nativity him homage” (Matt 2:2), visitors will have the Scheduling actors, choirs opportunity to come and adore the Christ child throughout the Christmas season until the Solemnity of the Baptism of the Lord, Jan. 12. 7 ‘Be Witnesses’ The Cathedral is open to receive visitors Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. 10 St. Stephen Cemetery The Cathedral is closed following 10 a.m. Mass Adds cremation niches on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. Weekday and Sunday Mass schedule: 13 Obituary Monday–Friday, 8:15 a.m. Sunday Vigil Mass: Saturday, 4:30 p.m. Notre Dame de Namur Sister Sunday Masses: 7:30 a.m., 10 a.m., 5:30 p.m. Rosemarie Pohlman Christmas Mass schedule: December 24 16 Rose Garden Mission 5:30 p.m., Nativity of the Lord Vigil Mass Thanksgiving giveaway Keener photo December 25 Midnight, Nativity of the Lord Mass During the Night (music by the Bishop’s Choir begins at Pope asks Catholicstoset up,be 11:15 p.m., Dec. 24) enchantedbyaNativity scene 10 a.m., Nativity of the Lord Mass During the Day Cindy Wooden See related story on page 2. Catholic News Service VATICAN CITY — A Nativity scene is a simple reminder of something astonishing: Moving? Wrong address? God became human to reveal the greatness of his love “by smiling and opening his Call the circulation desk, arms to all,” Pope Francis said in a letter on the meaning and importance of setting up (859) 392-1570 Christmas cribs. “Wherever it is, and whatever form it takes, the Christmas creche speaks to us of AdventAdvent the love of God, the God who became a child in order to make us know how close he is Bishop’s Schedule ...... 3 to every man, woman and child, regardless of their condition,” the pope wrote in his Let us live in holiness and Commentary ...... 4 apostolic letter, “Admirabile Signum” (“Enchanting Image”). People and Events ...... 8 Pope Francis signed the short letter Dec. 1, the first Sunday of Advent, during an love as we patiently await our Saint Snippet ...... 9 afternoon visit to Greccio, Italy, where St. Francis of Assisi set up the first Nativity scene in 1223. blessed hope, the coming of Classifieds ...... 12 When St. Francis had a cave prepared with a hay-filled manger, an ox and a donkey VIRTUS ...... 13 — no statues or actors or baby, even — he “carried out a great work of evangelization,” our Savior, alleluia, alleluia. Entertainment ...... 14 Pope Francis said, and Catholics can and must continue that work today. —Vespers Antiphon Shopper’s Guide ...... 14 “With this letter,” he wrote, “I wish to encourage the beautiful family tradition of News Briefs ...... 15 preparing the Nativity scene in the days before Christmas, but also the custom of set- Third ting it up in the workplace, in schools, hospitals, prisons and town squares.” Sunday “It is my hope that this custom will never be lost and that, wherever it has fallen into of Missed an edition? Current and back disuse, it can be rediscovered and revived,” the pope said. issues of the Messenger are available At the heart of even the simplest Nativity scene, he said, there is a reminder of Advent online at covdio.org/messenger. “God’s tender love: the Creator of the universe lowered himself to take up our little- Dec. 15 ness.” (Continued on page 6)

Colonels win state — again! The Covington Catholic High School football team has claimed, Dec. 7, its second state championship in three years defeating Frederick Douglass, Lexington, 14-7 in the KHSAA Class 5A state cham- pionship football game at the University of Kentucky’s Kroger Field. “I can’t tell you how proud I am of these young men in our program,” said Eddie Eviston, coach. “We talk a lot about how success is only worth it when doing things the right way in order to achieve it. These young men have done things the right way and are so very deserving of finishing their football season with a state championship.” Covington Catholic now has an 8-1 record in state finals, claiming the championship in 1987, 1988, 1993, 1994, 1997, 2006, 2017, 2019. This year’s state win capped-off an undefeated — 15-0 — season. 2 December 13, 2019 Messenger

Cathedral Basilica’sNativity scene had storied beginningsinrural North Dakota Stephen Enzweiler Enzweiler photos Cathedral Historian Christmas 2019 marks the It’s Christmas at the Cathedral Basilica of the 60th anniversary since the Assumption in Covington. It is a time when visi- first display of the tors from all over come to see and enjoy the season- German-carved Nativity al decorations beneath its vaulted gothic ceilings. scene in the Cathedral For many, a stop here marks the highlight of the Basilica (1959). season of light: festive red and white poinsettias blanket the candled altar steps, while Christmas trees sparkle in the sanctuary, garlands reach down from above, and beribboned pine garlands curve and drape playfully along the choir lofts and upper galleries. But tucked in one corner of this gothic treas- ure is a special decoration, one everyone has A Yankton Sioux family approach the manger in adoration of known since childhood: the Christmas nativity the Christ child. scene showing the birth of Jesus. Yet, this particu- lar arrangement is unusual among nativities. In addition to the normal cast of angels, shepherds and Magi, visitors may be intrigued to find west- ern plains Indians, an African family, and two small German girls in traditional folk dresses. On closer examination, the Indian figures bear the markings of the Yankton Sioux tribe of south- eastern North Dakota, evidenced by the unique patterns on the chief’s ceremonial headdress. He is on his knees, his eyes wide and hands apart as if gazing at the manger in complete wonder. Beside him is his spouse, kneeling in buckskin dress, hands folded in prayer and gazing soulfully at the child in the manger. Eagle feathers adorn her braided hair, and on her back, she carries her own baby, sleeping in a cradle-board protected by her cloak. Another set of figures we see are those of an African family in flowing tribal garb. Unlike the Sioux figures which kneel in adoration, this family is in motion as if hurrying to see what’s ahead of them. The father gazes in expectation, hands folded in prayer, while the mother car- ries her baby boy in her arms. Then come two young girls, one in a German dirndl, the other in a plain dress, both hurrying together toward the manger in joy and Detail of the African sculptures. mutual friendship. Why are there figures here? Why are there Sioux and Africans and German children in a Christmas scene? Keener photo And who carved them? It turns out, they owe their exis- Shepherd boys, tence to two extraordinary men — the Most Rev. William one playing the T. Mulloy, the sixth bishop of Covington, and August A. flute for the Courtesy of Philip Klener Christ child. Schmidt, a skilled sculptor and woodcarver from (above) August Schmidt, the man Cologne, Germany. who gave us the ornate German Bishop Mulloy was well known for his high energy oak baldachin, altar screens, choir and dominating personality, but he was also known for Courtesy of Stephen Enzweiler stalls, sanctuary furniture, and his deep care and concern for the spiritual lives of his (above) Most Rev. William T. bishop’s cathedra canopy, seen flock. His tenure as Covington’s bishop was marked by Mulloy, the sixth Bishop of here in a photo from 1969. sweeping reforms to the Cathedral during the 1950s, most Covington. His sentiments for August Schmidt was born in notable of which were its designation as a basilica, the native American peoples can be Cologne, Germany, in 1884, and addition of a new high altar, the ornately carved German seen among his cathedral had known Bishop Mulloy oak baldachin, choir stalls, sanctuary furniture, gilded renovations of the 1950’s. while working for Bishop altar shrines, ambo … and the beautiful nativity scene. Muench on sanctuary renovations to Fargo’s St. Mary’s William Theodore Mulloy was born Nov. 9, 1892, in Ardoch, Cathedral in 1939. As the Cathedral’s rector, Father Mulloy North Dakota, the eldest of five children born to William and worked closely with Mr. Schmidt and came to know him Margaret Mulloy, emigres from Ontario, Canada, to the well. After Mr. Schmidt emigrated to America in 1951, Dakota Territory in 1889. William’s world as a child was that Bishop Mulloy brought him to Covington where he was kept of rural farm life and close associations with the native peo- busy for the next decade. “You will be having much work,” ples of the Yankton Sioux nation, or the Ihanktonwan Oyate. the bishop wrote to his friend, “and the longer you stay in He grew up speaking their language and made lifelong friend- this country the more you will have, so you will never be ships among its native inhabitants. He heard the call to priest- idle.” hood early, and was ordained by Bishop James Riley of Fargo It was out of this promise of work that the idea for a new on June 7, 1916. races and cultures into the message of peace and joy brought nativity scene emerged. “I have in mind a very beautiful crib In those days, the Catholic Church was widely scattered into the world by the Christ child. In the baldachin, he for the cathedral,” Bishop Mulloy wrote Mr. Schmidt in across the northern plains. Father Mulloy spent most of his instructed Mr. Schmidt to carve the figure of St. Kateri January 1954. “Perhaps you could give me a rough sketch and early priesthood ministering to the Sioux communities he Tekakwitha, a 17th century Iroquois renowned for her mira- an estimate of these.” Over the next three years, the nativity grew up with. In 1934, he was appointed diocesan Director of cles of conversion and healing. Likewise, he had Mr. Schmidt project and its figures would evolve. A wax model by Mr. Rural Life and later helped organize the Confraternity of carve the figures of the Sioux couple, the African family and Schmidt followed for the bishop’s evaluation; then a smaller, Christian Doctrine (CCD), which aimed at teaching the faith the German children. The result was a Christmas nativity tabletop model carved in wood. to the rural white farmers and tribal Sioux populations. His scene that expressed the unity of all peoples and cultures, But the American culture was changing in big ways in the great fondness for the native Sioux people was shared by his regardless of race or ethnicity, coming together in praise and 1950s: the effects of the Second World War were still keenly mentor, Fargo’s bishop, Aloyisius Muench (1935-1959). After thanksgiving, and in adoration of the gift of Christmas — the felt, the Cold War was escalating, and the civil rights move- Father Mulloy was appoined bishop of Covington in August Christ child in whom all are one family. ment was picking up steam. It was during these dramatic 1944, these native sentiments followed him to Covington from In a letter from November 1958, Schmidt lists the final fig- social changes that Bishop Mulloy seized upon the opportuni- his North Dakota home. ures being carved as “Mary, Joseph and the child, two floating ty to express his vision for a greater inclusion of people of all angels, three shepherds including a young one and flute, one Messenger December 13, 2019 3

own; some are trying to keep their National Guard boot camp and six months of active duty Offering hope, nurturing life family intact despite their own poor serving in support of border patrol. health; some are caring for children A mother and child who have lived at St. Joseph Karen Kuhlman cast aside by others. Issues such as these can be impossible Apartments for 12 years are no longer on Section 8 housing Messenger Contributor to face without a helping hand. Catholic Charities extends or receiving food stamps. For all of those years she has This summer, there was a lovely garden nearby, its that hand. held a full-time job with a local shipping company — plantings blooming beautifully in four raised beds. Its A resident of St. Joseph Apartments has achieved an another corporation supportive of someone experiencing home is an asphalt parking lot, subject to temperatures inspiring level of success for herself and her children. She one of life’s rough patches. Her child, who also has a job, that can become brutal during the heat of the day, storms was a Catholic Charities client receiving counseling began studies at a local university this past fall. with damaging winds, the near record rainfall our region regarding past trauma when life became even more com- Another mother raising four children has earned her experienced this year, and bunnies who dine in the garden plicated. A relationship fell apart and she lost everything; G.E.D., completed further course work and now works at night. Tomatoes, potatoes, sweet potatoes, onions, pep- with no one to turn to, the young woman and her two little with medically fragile children. These examples illustrate an important point — people expe- riencing homelessness can achieve great success. These are not stories of scary people, of families stuck on drugs or cheat- ing the system. These are true success stories about people ready to make a change in their lives, enabled to do so because of the case management and coun- seling available to them through Catholic Charities. They have talked through the big and small issues of life that can be worri- some. The friendly support of local firemen and police officers who drop by to say hello, or offer (left) Brandy children fell into homelessness. She had a good job with friendship and advice to the children and their parents is a Medaugh, client care good benefits as an employee of a local large chain grocery blessing to this community. Residents have learned to feel specialist with store, but could not find affordable housing. They lived in safe and hopeful. They love where they live and the com- Catholic Charities a shelter and took their midday meals at the Parish munity they are a part of. And, they love Ms. Medaugh. and case manager at Kitchen. As a result of the wrap-around services she was The residents see the love that she and Catholic Charities St. Joseph already receiving from Catholic Charities, she and her has for them and for their children. Apartments. (left children found a home at St. Joseph Apartments. Ms. Medaugh says that the parking lot gardens have above) Part of the Their new home helped them turn the page on a diffi- changed the community of St. Joseph Apartments. raised bed cult past and move forward with courage. Over the years, Working together, the residents take pride in their small gardens at St. Joseph the mother has continued to enjoy job security and community, keep it neat and tidy and point out issues that Apartments. (right advancement in her job, with an employer who has been need attention. This past spring, they volunteered at nurs- above) St. Joseph supportive of her through some very trying times. Her eries in exchange for plants to fill those parking lot Apartments, children have followed her example — her older child planters. Their ministries encourage the fragile life to Elsmere. received a scholarship from a local parochial high school, come forth and bear fruit. This garden provides more than and following graduation, received full collegiate scholar- food for the body. This garden nourishes the soul. pers, pumpkins, watermelons and strawberries flourish ship offers and now attends a local university. Her younger For more information about Catholic Charities pro- under the care of gardeners who are determined to give son has chosen to attend public high school and is doing grams visit www.covingtoncharities.org or contact Client the tender vegetation every chance to thrive despite these very well. This remarkable mother persevered for the sake Care at (859) 581-8974. many challenges. of her family, and now the future holds many good things These are very special gardeners; for they have faced all for the three of them. She received counseling, heeded of these same challenges themselves. Once homeless, they good advice and has achieved something remarkable. are now residents of St. Joseph Apartments, a ministry of Mother and children have moved from St. Joseph Catholic Charities, Diocese of Covington, and they, too, are Apartments and now rent a two-bedroom home that the thriving. Bishop’s owner has agreed to sell to them in two years’ time. Brandy Medaugh is a client care specialist and case Schedule A grandmother faced a tragic situation when her pre- manager for the 16-unit St. Joseph Apartments. She has school aged grandchildren were removed from their par- been a guide on the path that leads towards a life full of ents care and about to be placed in foster care. Though possibilities. Formerly homeless families occupy all of the homeless herself, she sought and won custody of the chil- Dec. 13 Dec. 18 apartments at St. Joseph; every family has at least one dren, agreeing to take them, even without benefits. She Priests Continuing Education Priests gathering, 6 p.m. member who suffers from disabilities of physical or men- loved and cared for her grandchildren, and saw to their Committee meeting, 10 a.m. Dec. 19 tal health. A companion on their journeys, Ms. Medaugh education while living on the streets or in shelters until Individual meeting, 11:30 a.m. Individual meeting, 9 a.m. has witnessed the courage of those who have been dealt she was able to secure housing at St. Joseph Apartments. blows from which many of us could not recover. The mis- Diocesan staff annual Christmas Consecrated Women Religious The teens have now graduated from high school and conceptions about the reasons for homelessness are many gathering, 6–9 p.m. Leadership luncheon, 11:30 a.m. were awarded full college scholarships. One grandchild — substance abuse, a refusal to work, a criminal record. Dec. 14 Holy Hour for victims of sexual spent this summer working, and began to attend a local But people who are homeless are often not who many Mass, Cathedral Basilica of the abuse and for the sanctification community college this fall where he studies auto mechan- think they are. Many live on the street due to situations Assumption, Covington, of priests, Cathedral Basilica, ics. The other teen wants to become a chemical engineer they feel powerless to change. Some face mental health 4:30 p.m. Covington, 3 p.m. and will enter a local university following completion of issues due to trauma suffered through no fault of their Cathedral Parish annual Dec. 20 Christmas gathering, Bishop St. Joseph Pre-School visit, Howard Memorial Auditorium, St. Joseph Parish, Camp Springs, Covington, 6 p.m. 11 a.m. (Continued from page 2) was taken to the hospital, where tests revealed a blood clot in Dec. 15 Diocesan seminarians gathering, shepherd holding a small lamb, five sheep, one shepherd fam- his heart. After a restless week, he died on June 1. The fin- Mass, Cathedral Basilica, 10 a.m. Cathedral Basilica, 5 p.m. ily with two children, the three holy Magi, one negro family ished nativity wouldn’t be delivered to the Cathedral Basilica and one Indian family. A star with rays from metal, back- until November, and it was finally displayed in the cathedral Dec. 16 Dec. 22 ground sloping up with the city of Bethlehem in the back.” He for the first time that Christmas. Diocesan Review Board meeting, Mass and Cathedral Ladies worked furiously to complete the nativity, which Bishop This Christmas, we celebrate the 60th anniversary of this noon Society gathering following, Cathedral Basilica, 10 a.m. Mulloy hoped would be finished by the summer of 1959. Mr. nativity being displayed in the Cathedral Basilica. The nativ- Individual meeting, 6 p.m. Schmidt was having the entire crib set carved back in ity scene is not merely a visual retelling of the story of the Dec. 17 Cologne, Germany, and he traveled constantly back and forth first Christmas. The Sioux, African families and the German Cathedral staff luncheon, in order to supervise the progress of the work and arrange for children approaching the manger remind us all of our need 11:30 a.m. shipment of the finished pieces. It all took time. for unity, to love and care for each other and for all people, Dec. 17-18 Sadly, Bishop Mulloy did not live to see the final nativity especially those among us whom Bishop Mulloy’s mentor, Monthly day of recollection, scene displayed. In May 1959, after returning from Lexington Bishop Muench, once called “the forgotten among us.” St. Gertrude Priory, Madeira where he had been delivering a commencement address, he 4 December 13, 2019 Messenger COMMENTARY John Henry Newmaninfull I write these words in the Rome airport, on my way to whelming majority of the population, were still, of course, nerstone of the English religious and cultural establish- England, where I will deliver a paper on St. John Henry suspicious of him, and Catholics were not quite ready to ment — in a Catholic manner. The reaction to this was so Newman and evangelization. I’m still basking in the glow accept him fully. Upon becoming rector of the newly estab- severe that Newman found himself vilified in every corner of the splendid Mass of canonization, presided over by lished Catholic University of Dublin, Newman composed of the society, condemned from pulpits, criticized in draw- Pope Francis and attended by tens of thousands of bishops, the magnificent lectures later gathered as his book “The ing rooms, excoriated in pubs and train cars. In the eyes of priests and faithful from all Idea of a University,” but he was also met with consider- his fellow Anglicans, he was a dangerous conservative. And WORD ON FIRE over the world. able opposition from the bishops of Ireland, who wondered their worst suspicions were confirmed when he converted Hanging from the central why they should entrust their students to a former to Roman Catholicism in 1845. loggia of St. Peter’s Basilica Protestant minister. To be sure, this buffeting from both sides made almost during the liturgy was a Upon becoming in 1858 the editor of the Rambler, a left- the whole of Newman’s life difficult, and it is not hard to marvelous tapestry featur- leaning Catholic journal, Newman published an article see why he saw much of his career as a Sisyphean exercise ing a portrait of Newman, under the title “On Consulting the Faithful in Matters of in futility. But it was precisely this both/and quality that and I found myself gazing at Doctrine.” It was met with a firestorm of criticism from made Newman so attractive to many of the theologians it frequently as the Mass conservative Catholics convinced that he was democratiz- who paved the way for the Second Vatican Council: progressed. I couldn’t help ing the articulation of the formal teachings of the faith. Balthasar, Ratzinger, Bouyer, de Lubac, Danielou, to name but wonder what Newman And those same critics were hardly mollified when they just a few. They appreciated the great Englishman’s obvi- himself would have thought studied Newman’s “Essay on the Development of Christian ous devotion to the great Catholic tradition, and they also if someone had told him Doctrine,” which struck them as relativizing dogma, or his savored his sense of that tradition as a living organism and when he arrived in Rome in later “Essay in Aid of a Grammar of Assent,” which clear- not a dead letter. Pope John XXIII was entirely in the spirit Bishop Robert Barron 1846 to commence studies ly departed from the standard scholastic manner of of Newman when he spoke of the Church not as a museum for the Catholic priesthood approaching theological questions. but as a flourishing garden of life. that one day in the distant future his Mass of canonization Now, one of the great ironies of Newman’s life is that The battle over Newman continues to this day. Both lib- would be celebrated at St. Peter’s. He would have been, I’m the criticism he received from many Catholics as a “liber- erals and conservatives within the Catholic Church eagerly quite sure, utterly flummoxed. al” was rivaled by an equally severe criticism he had claim him, and both sides can do so legitimately. I am con- Newly converted to the faith, seen by many of his for- received in the first half of his career from his fellow vinced that it is most helpful to read him in the both/and mer co-religionists as a traitor, distinctly uneasy in the Anglicans as an arch-“conservative.” When he was a very manner of his pre-conciliar disciples, to see all sides of him Catholic intellectual environment, the Newman of 1846 felt young man, still a student at Oxford, he joined the ranks of and not to lock him into ideological categories. Best of all, more than a little at sea. When he paid a courtesy visit on those calling for a more Catholicizing reading of we should read him on his own terms, assess his argu- Pope Pius IX, Newman bent down to kiss the Pope’s foot, Anglicanism, an interpretation more in line with the ments objectively, take him in full. If we do that, we shall which was the custom of the time, and in the process man- Fathers of the Church than with the Protestant reformers. see why he was such an important inspiration to the aged to bang his forehead against the papal knee. This, he In his thirties, he became a leader of the so-called Second Vatican Council, and why the Church has seen fit to said later, rather summed up his relationship with Pius IX, Oxford Movement, which sought a deep transformation of declare him a saint and one day, I hope, a Doctor of the and it also serves as a fitting symbol of his initial awkward- Anglicanism, stressing the doctrinal and sacramental ele- Church. ness and feeling of discomfort in the Catholic world. ments of the religion. In 1841 Newman published the Bishop Robert Barron is an Auxiliary Bishop of the Things didn’t get particularly better when Newman (in)famous Tract #90, an essay laying out the case that one Archdiocese of Los Angeles. Article originally published at returned to England. Anglicans, who made up the over- could interpret the 39 Articles of Anglicanism — the cor- WordOnFire.org. Anchoring ourselves within God’s goodness What would Jesus do? For some Christians, that’s the denominations, spiritualties and ways of worship, each dient to our churches and not betraying the critical voices easy answer to every question. In every situation all we with its own interpretation of Jesus. Jesus is complex. within our own conscience. If we do that honestly, one need to ask is: What would Jesus do? Given Jesus’ complexity, it’s no accident then that the- thing will eventually constellate inside us as an absolute — At a deep level, that’s actually true. Jesus is the ultimate ologians, preachers and spiritualties often find in his per- God is good! Everything Jesus taught and incarnated was criterion. He is the way, the son and his teachings ways that reflect more how they predicated on that truth. Anything that jeopardizes or truth, and the life and any- would handle a situation than how he would. We see this in belies that, be it a church, a theology, a liturgical practice IN EXILE thing that contradicts him our churches and spiritualties everywhere, and I say this or a spirituality is wrong. And any voice within dogma or is not a way to God. Yet, I with sympathy, not with judgment. None of us gets Jesus private conscience that betrays that is also wrong. suspect, many of us find fully right. How we conceive of God colors for good or for bad ourselves irritated in how So where does this leave us? Do we simply rely on our everything within our religious practice. And above all that expression is often used private interpretation of Jesus? Do we give ourselves over else, Jesus revealed this about God — God is good. That in simplistic ways, as a fun- uncritically to some ecclesial or academic authority and truth needs to ground everything else, our churches, our damentalism difficult to trust that it will tell us what Jesus would do in every situa- theologies, our spiritualties, our liturgies, and our under- digest. Sometimes, in our tion? Is there a “third” way? standing of everyone else. Sadly, often it doesn’t. The fear irritation at this, we sponta- Well, there’s a “third” way, the way of most Christian that God is not good disguises itself in subtle ways but is neously want to say: Jesus denominations, wherein we submit our private interpreta- always manifest whenever our religious teachings or prac- has nothing to do with this. tion to the canonical (“dogmatic”) tradition of our particu- tices somehow make God in heaven not as understanding, But, of course, as soon as lar church and accept, though not in blind, uncritical, obe- merciful and indiscriminate and unconditional in love as those words escape our dience, the interpretation of that larger community, its Jesus was on earth. It’s also manifest whenever we fear Father Ron Rolheiser mouths we realize how bad longer history, and its wider experience, humbly accepting that we’re dispensing grace too cheaply and making God that sounds. Jesus has a lot that it can be naïve (and arrogant) to bracket 2000 years of too accessible. to do with every theological, ecclesial or liturgical question, Christian experience so as to believe that our insight into Sadly, the God who is met in our churches today is often no matter its complexity. Granted, there’s the danger of Jesus is a needed corrective to a vision that has inspired so too-narrow, too-merciless, too-tribal, too-petty, and too- fundamentalism here, but it’s equally as dangerous to many millions of people through so many centuries. untrustworthy to be worthy of Jesus — or the surrender of answer theological, ecclesial and liturgical questions with- Still, we’re not meant to park the dictates of our private our soul. out considering what Jesus might do. He’s still, and forever, conscience, our critical questions, our unease with certain What would Jesus do? Admittedly the question is com- a non-negotiable criterion. things and the wounds we carry at our church door either. plex. However we know we have the wrong answer whenev- But while Jesus is a non-negotiable criterion, he’s not a In the end, we all must be true to our own consciences, er we make God anything less than fully good, whenever simplistic one. What did Jesus do? Well, the answer isn’t faithful to the particular insights that God graces us with, we set conditions for unconditional love, and whenever, simple. Looking at his life we see that sometimes he did and mindful of the wounds we carry. Both our graces and however subtly, we block access to God and God’s mercy. things one way, sometimes another way, and sometimes he our wounds are meant to be listened to and they, along with Oblate Father Ron Rolheiser, theologian, teacher, and started out doing something one way and ended up chang- the deepest voices within our conscience, need to be taken award-winning author, is President of the Oblate School of ing his mind and doing it in a different way, as we see in his into account when we ask ourselves: What would Jesus do? Theology in San Antonio, Texas. interaction with the Syro-Phoenician woman. That’s why, I We need to answer that for ourselves by faithfully hold- suspect, within Christianity there are so many different ing and carrying within us the tension between being obe-

(UPS-403-650) Published by the Roman Catholic Diocese of Covington, Ky.; 44 issues a year Bishop Roger J. Foys...... Publisher VOL. 89 NO. 43 (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 Monica Yeamans...... Editorial Assistant Official newspaper of the Diocese of Covington mailing office Cincinnati, Ohio 45203. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to MESSENGER, Kim Holocher...... Advertising Manager 1125 Madison Ave., Covington, KY 41011-3115. Laura Gillespie...... Production Coordinator/Designer 1125 Madison Ave. • Covington, Ky. 41011-3115 Advertising deadline: Wednesday noon, 9 days prior to publication date. 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 December 13, 2019 5 COMMENTARY It’s rightinfront It is ingiving that we receive Catholic Charities has long been known for its compas- image and likeness of God. This belief compels us to see of your face sion and service to the poor, the forgotten, the disenfran- everyone we encounter as a brother or sister — we are all The readings for the third Sunday of Advent — chised and the lonely. As the director for Catholic Charities part of the same God’s family. From this we also learn to Cycle “A” are: Isaiah 35:1-6,10; James 5:7-10; and in our local diocese, I get to see and hear about so much of treat everyone with dignity and respect, especially the poor Matthew 11:2-11. the good works of mercy to those in need, seeking our help. and vulnerable, the disabled and outcasts. Recognizing how I like John the Baptist. He’s so much like me, always We feed the hungry, we house the homeless, we also teach much we have in common, it is natural, then, that we would looking in the wrong places, unable to recognize what’s parenting, provide counsel- desire to serve others. right in front of him. I recall many times when, as a VIEWPOINT ing and facilitate adoptions. Catholic social teaching also highlights that God has a child, I was sent by my mother to the basement pantry to As inspiring as this is, I special heart for the poor, and his wish for us is to share our fetch a jar of beans or a can of corn for that night’s sup- am even more amazed at blessings. When you do this, you will be lifted up, too: “If per. I often returned to inform mom that there were none how many people come to you lavish your food on the hungry and satisfy the afflicted; left. She would then lead Catholic Charities out of a then your light shall rise in the darkness, and your gloom me back to the shelves desire to give back. Some shall become like midday.” (Isaiah 58:10) Or as St. Francis EIGHTH DAY and show me that what I return who were previous- said in his famous prayer, “it is in giving that we receive.” was seeking was right in ly served but many others So once convicted to share, and one considers how to front of my face. How come to serve simply from share our blessings, I think we are drawn to serve where we a desire serve. Where does know dignity and respect are embraced, where we are could I miss it? Today’s Gospel finds this desire come from, and called to be the hands and feet of Christ. Exactly what we John the Baptist in exact- why do they come to each do does not matter. We each have different gifts. The ly the same position. He Catholic Charities? important thing is that we recognize our call, and we have had enthusiastically spent First, I believe this answered the call. As St. Mother Teresa of Calcutta said, Alan Pickett his ministry proclaiming desire comes from grati- “Not all of us can do great things. But we can do small that the kingdom of God tude. Gratitude is learned things with great love.” and its Messiah was near from an attitude of humility when we recognize that all our I am eternally grateful for the call to serve, and even at hand. He had baptized gifts and blessings come from God. This gratitude often more grateful for the many souls who share their desire to Jesus in the Jordan and stirs up a desire to share our blessings with others. I believe serve by serving anyone who come to Catholic Charities this desire can also be explained in Catholic social teaching. seeking the hands and feet of Christ. Father Daniel Vogelpohl continued his preaching of preparation for the Catholic social teaching is the foundation of all that we Alan Pickett is executive director for Catholic Charities, sought after kingdom of God. His fervor in preaching do at Catholic Charities. The root of Catholic social teach- Diocese of Covington, Ky. repentance to King Herod is what resulted in the condi- ing comes from the belief that all mankind is made in the tion of imprisonment in which we find him in today’s Gospel. But John, even with his prayer, holiness, and gift of Christmas, family and evangelization prophetic spirit could not recognize what was right in If the title of this column caught your attention then you Is there a fallen away family member or friend you have front of him. (I suspect that if my mother had sent him are exactly the kind of person I am hoping to talk to — been considering inviting to Christmas Mass with you? Do to the pantry, he too would have returned empty handed.) someone in our diocese who reads the Messenger, celebrates it! Instead, he sends some of his disciples to question Jesus: Christmas, loves family and When polled, most people who don’t attend Church on “Are you ‘He who is to come,’ or should we look for anoth- is interested in evangeliza- Christmas say they would have if someone had invited them er?” VIEWPOINT tion. — so, invite people to Mass. They are more likely to be open Every good Jew of Jesus’ time, John the Baptist and So let’s chat. to it this time of year. his disciples included, would have been thoroughly famil- Christmas is a magical Also, if your fallen away family members seem to enjoy iar with the consoling message of Isaiah the prophet. time of year for a lot of rea- Christmas Mass then invite them to Mass again the next Speaking to the Jews while they were in exile, Isaiah had sons, but there is one thing weekend. Offer to cook them brunch or go out to eat with foretold the coming of the messiah and his kingdom. You in particular which strikes them afterwards. “will see the glory of the Lord, the splendor of our God.” me every year about this Don’t shy away from having conversations about the faith Isaiah spoke explicitly of the signs of the kingdom: holiday — it’s incredible with your family members and friends. People are more like- “Then the eyes of the blind will be opened, the ears of power to re-open people to ly to be open to it this time of year. the deaf be cleared; then will the lame leap like a stag, the faith. Most importantly, all of us need to make absolute certain then the tongue of the dumb will sing.” (First Reading) Statistics say that only that we behave with charity and joy towards every person Jesus answers John’s messengers by pointing to the about a quarter of who attends Mass this Christmas — even the people who things Isaiah had prophesied: “Go back and report to Americans attend Mass take your parking spot, the people who don’t keep their chil- John what you hear and see: the blind recover their sight, every Sunday. On dren “under control,” the people who talk, laugh or clearly cripples walk, lepers are cured, the deaf hear, dead men Bradley Torline Christmas, however, the don’t remember how to act during the Mass. Thank them for are raised to life, and the poor have the good news number of church atten- coming. Do not be rude or give them any reason to justify preached to them.” In other words, Jesus is telling John, dees jumps 30 percent. When polled, over half of Americans the prejudice that church-goers are “hypocrites.” Be as kind “Open your eyes and see right in front of you everything say they plan to attend church on Christmas. That is and inviting and welcoming as you can. Ask them to come Isaiah spoke about.” astounding. again. I believe we find ourselves in a position similar to There is no denying that, in general, America’s attitude People love how Christmas makes them feel. We all can John the Baptist’s. Yes, the kingdom of God is here — the toward Christianity is not exactly “warm and fuzzy” any- recall Elvis’s lyrics: “O why can’t every day be just like Messiah has come. But all is not complete. Not all the more. In fact it seems to worsen every year. Mass attendance Christmas? Why can’t that feeling go on endlessly? For if deaf hear, not all the blind see, not everyone has heard is hurtling, we’re losing young people in droves, and unbe- every day could be just like Christmas, what a wonderful the good news. In a way we are still waiting. lief is on the rise. We even have presidential candidates now world this would be!” The liturgy reflects our faith and our questioning. We who are suggesting that churches should lose their tax- Every day would be like Christmas if most Christians believe that the Lord has come. Yet we find ourselves exempt status if they don’t conform to certain agendas. practiced the faith more than once a year. Christmas feels looking for more. We ask why, if the Lord has come, do Despite all of this increasing antagonism, 51 percent of good because for most of us it’s the one time of year where people still suffer. Why are there still wars? Why do peo- Americans still plan to attend church on Christmas. Think we let down our barriers and let Christ break into our ple die suddenly and unexpectedly? When will the Lord about that. That means 100 million Americans who normal- hearts and into the world again through our actions. We are save his people from all the suffering they endure? ly wouldn’t darken the door of a church will find themselves more open to the faith. We treat each other better. We are We are not the first to ask these questions. The earliest in a pew on Christmas. kinder. We are more open to prayer and family. We go to Christians experienced this tension. James’ words of That is the power of Christ’s birth. Mass. encouragement spoken to them in today’s second reading Nothing we could do on our own — no evangelism strate- Imagine if we let those barriers down every Sunday of apply to us as well. “Be patient until the coming of the gy, no creative initiative, no video series or dynamic speaker the year and not just on Christmas? Lord. See how the farmer awaits the precious yield of the or innovative new program could accomplish anything like Christmas is certainly an extraordinary time, and a sea- soil. He looks forward to it patiently while the soil that. Only Christ himself could pull something like that off. son of extraordinary graces. I pray that we get better and receives the winter and the spring rains.” Two thousand years later there is still something about better as a Church at capitalizing on these opportunities Once again it is patient endurance that will enable us Jesus’ birth that has the power to soften the hearts of people Christ creates for us every year on the commemoration of to see what is right before our faces. Perhaps if I had per- who are normally disinclined towards the Church. There is his birth. I pray you have a blessed Christmas season and a sisted a little longer I would have also found the elusive something about Christmas that draws people back. Happy New Year! jar of beans or can of corn. So here’s the point: There is something remarkable about Merry Christmas. Father Daniel Vogelpohl is pastor of Blessed Sacrament Christmas that helps open people up to the faith, even people Bradley Torline is associate director, Office of Catechesis Parish, Ft. Mitchell. who are normally closed off to it (or at least appear to be). So and Faith Formation, Diocese of Covington, Ky. — don’t be afraid to take this opportunity to bring people in. 6 December 13, 2019 Messenger

EnchantedbyaNativity scene (Continued from page 1) Then, he said, there is the fact that this baby is “the source and sustenance of all life. In Jesus, the Father has given us a brother who comes to seek us out whenever we are confused or lost, a loyal friend ever at our side. He gave us his son who forgives us and frees us from our sins.” The magic of the season goes deep when someone — child or adult — gazes upon a Nativity scene, he said. And whether or not they can put what they experience into words, they come away knowing that “God’s ways are astonishing, for it seems impossible that he should forsake his glory to become a man like us.” Live nativity The whole nativity scene The Knights of St. John Commandery #94, Northern Kentucky and Boy Scout Troop reminds adult Catholics of their childhood #702, St. Timothy Parish, recently erected the stable and fencing for the 25th annual and of learning the faith Diocese of Covington live nativity on the campus of St. Timothy Parish, Union. The blessing of the crib will be held Dec. 14 following 4:30 p.m. Mass. After that, from their parents and grandparents. actors, actresses and live animals will bring the events of Christ’s birth to life Dec. Each year, it should be a reminder 14–23, 6:30–8:30 p.m. Families, friends, groups and organizations are welcome and encouraged to that the faith needs to be passed on participate in this unique Christmas event. Actors and actresses are needed to dress as the Holy Family and shepherds. Choirs are welcome to add their gift of to ones children and grandchildren. music and joy. Catechists can lead a prayer service. Students can earn service hours — Pope Francis for their participation. For scheduling a group or family call Doug Eifert, (859) 384-3689 or e-mail “To our astonishment, we see God acting exactly as we do: [email protected]. He sleeps, takes milk from his mother, cries and plays like every other child! As always, God baffles us. He is unpre- dictable, constantly doing what we least expect,” Pope Francis wrote. “The Nativity scene shows God as he came into our world, but it also makes us reflect on how our life is part of God’s own life. It invites us to become his disciples if we want to attain ultimate meaning in life.” Knowing that some families keep to the essential charac- ters and setting while others add all sorts of characters and buildings and streams and towns, Pope Francis said even “fanciful additions show that in the new world inaugurated by Jesus there is room for whatever is truly human and for all God’s creatures.” But he focused in the letter on some key elements, starting with the starry night, the simplicity of the stable and the poverty of the shepherds. Giving the Nativity scene a nighttime backdrop, he said, and the poor” are the first to welcome the good news, the pope will for her life and sharing him with others, inviting them to respects the Gospel account of Jesus’ birth but also serves to said. “In a particular way, from the time of its Franciscan ori- obey him. Joseph, too, accepts the role God assigned him, pro- remind people of times when they’ve experienced darkness. gins, the Nativity scene has invited us to ‘feel’ and ‘touch’ the tecting the baby Jesus, teaching him and raising him. The creche, he said, says, “Even then, God does not abandon poverty that God’s son took upon himself in the incarna- And, of course, the pope wrote, “when, at Christmas, we us, but is there to answer our crucial questions about the tion.” place the statue of the Infant Jesus in the manger, the meaning of life. Who am I? Where do I come from? Why was That, in turn, calls Jesus’ disciples “to follow him along Nativity scene suddenly comes alive. God appears as a child, I born at this time in history? Why do I love? Why do I suffer? the path of humility, poverty and self-denial that leads from for us to take into our arms.” Why will I die?” the manger of Bethlehem to the cross,” the pope wrote. “It The whole scene, he said, reminds adult Catholics of their “It was to answer these questions that God became man,” asks us to meet him and serve him by showing mercy to those childhood and of learning the faith from their parents and the pope wrote. “His closeness brings light where there is of our brothers and sisters in greatest need.” grandparents. Each year, it should be a reminder that the darkness and shows the way to those dwelling in the shadow “Jesus, ‘gentle and humble in heart,’ was born in poverty faith needs to be passed on to one’s children and grandchil- of suffering.” and led a simple life in order to teach us to recognize what is dren. The simple shepherds, who were the first to go to the sta- essential and to act accordingly,” he said. Standing together before a Nativity scene, in wonder and ble to see the newborn Jesus, are reminders that “the humble Mary is a model of discipleship, faithfully accepting God’s awe, he said, is a simple way to start. Messenger December 13, 2019 7

Be Seeking Jesusinothers Karen Kuhlman studies in the evening, traveling to outlying areas of Dayton to Messenger Correspondent reach migrant workers who labored there in tree nurseries. She Witnesses Notre Dame Sister Maria Francine Stacy grew up in a large became the go-to person for the community, for they knew she Catholic family in Cincinnati. Her father immigrated to America would help them with the possible and offer prayers and consola- from Italy, but he changed his name and put his heritage behind tion for the impossible. him to try to avoid the anti-Italian discrimination sometimes expe- Sister Maria Francine returned to teaching at Notre Dame “Wake up the world! rienced in his day. Academy in 3124, but her experiences in Dayton had changed her. Be witnesses of Sister Maria Francine attended St. John Vianney Grade School, She was not the same person she was when she left the diocese in Marian High School and received a degree in education from 3113. The Spanish language teacher has more in mind than simply a different way Thomas More College. Prayer had always been an important part teaching a language to her students. She wants the young women of doing things, of her life and led her to seek a life of service. She knew she could to learn about the lives of those whose language they are studying. pray and serve as a lay person, but she She says that the study of language is not of acting,of living!” wanted to deepen her commitment to a mere academic exercise : the acquisi- — Pope Francis both. So, she asked God to help her dis- tion of a language enables a person to cern the best way to proceed. open the door to understanding another She began to realize that life in a reli- culture. Class reading assignments offer Religious Communities gious community would nurture her firsthand testimony to the effect that sep- of Women prayer life and provide an opportunity to aration has on children whose parents Benedictine Sisters of Covington be of service to others. Drawn to the journey to America hoping to provide a www.stwalburg.org vowed life, the young woman became a better life for the family. Mission trips to member of the Sisters of Notre Dame, help the impoverished in Santo Domingo St. Joseph the Worker Sisters Covington Province, in 2654. provide authentic third world experiences www.ssjw.org Sister Maria Francine taught at Notre for students. Witnessing real need plants Dame Academy and at grade schools in seeds of compassion Congregation of Divine Providence the Diocese of Covington for 31 years. in young hearts, of Kentucky She was also volunteering, using her flu- helping students see www.cdpkentucky.org ency in Spanish to teach English as a sec- the immigrant as a ond language to the growing Hispanic person, not an issue. community. She saw that there were Sister Maria Notre Dame Sisters of Covington many ways in which she could be of Francine also volun- www.sndky.org assistance to the newcomers and decid- teers with the Prison ed that it was time to let others take over Ministry of Catholic Passionist Nuns in the classroom. Charities at the www.erlangerpassionists.com In 3113, Sister Maria Francine began Boone County Jail. working in the Archdiocese of Her visits with Carmelite Sisters Cincinnati7s Office of Hispanic Ministry in Hispanic inmates for the Aged and Infirm Dayton, Ohio. The office had been large- give them an oppor- www.carmelitesisters.com ly sacramental, but the Archdiocese Notre Dame Sister Maria Francine Stacy living a life of service. tunity to talk over wanted to broaden it into a more holistic their problems. She Public Association approach to dealing also with temporal issues in the Hispanic com- accompanies them on their journeys by offering spiritual friendship of the Faithful munity. She began simply, becoming a Church presence in the to inmates and their families. She has heard from some who tell her Franciscan Daughters of Mary community. Sister Maria Francine says that her life there was they have never forgotten her visits during the most terrible times www.fdofmary.org 8absolutely fantastic.9 Her days were filled with anything and every- of their lives, when they were completely separated from their fam- thing as she began helping her new friends with every facet of ily and unable to speak the language. their lives. Sister Maria Francine said, 8You can become emotionally drained She helped them find housing or childcare, obtain citizenship when you form a connection with people and discover how hard and address legal issues. Her bi-lingual abilities comforted those life is for them. But, the life of a woman religious is a life based on a unable to understand medical diagnosis because of a language love of Jesus Christ. That love is placed in Jesus when you serve the barrier. Caring for them with the love of a mother, she became part imprisoned, the stranger, the poor and do for Jesus by doing for of their families and built strong relationships as she helped them the least. When I can offer a student a picture of the face of the handle difficult situations. She began after-school programs and poor and the student can see Jesus there, I have fulfilled a promise summer camps aimed at assuring the academic success of the chil- and I am fueled to continue to go out and seek Jesus in others.9 dren of working parents. She conducted English classes and Bible

11 Sister Carol Marie Klaine, SND 18 Sister Janet Rose Carr, CDP 27 Sister Mary Belle Borros, CDP January Birthdays Sister Margaret Jacobs, CDP Sister Mary Thomas Harvey, CDP Sister Mary Margaret Agnes 12 Sister Rose Mary Rizzo, CDP 20 Sister Aileen Bankemper, OSB Hemmerle, SND Sister Rose Rauen, OSB 2 Sister Mary Joan Terese Niklas, SND 13 Sister Mary Jo Hummeldorf, CDP 21 Sister Mary Agnes Cashman, CDP 4 Sister Mary Rosanne Boh, SND 14 Sister Mary Ruth Lubbers, SND Sister Cormarie Rebhan, SND 9 Sister Mary Francis Dirr, SND 15 Sister Mary Paul Ann Hanneken, SND 26 Sister Maria Grace Reis, CP

For more information about consecrated life in the Diocese of Covington, contact Sister Fran Moore at $"!#% # -!. 8 December 13, 2019 Messenger PEOPLE AND EVENTS

Newsworthy Happy birthday to Father Robert Henderson, retired, Dec. 19. Mary Wurtz (Villa Madonna Academy ’16) has been awarded a masters fellowship in Beijing, China. The Schwarzman Scholars announced their 2021 cohort for the Schwarzman Scholars College at Tsinghua University in Beijing, China. Ms. Wurtz was chosen as one of 145 scholars for 2021, chosen from 4,700 applicants from 41 countries and 108 universities. She will travel to Beijing in August 2020, and will study there for 11 months in order to attain a Masters in Global Affairs.

The weekly TV Mass from the Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption will be broadcast on Sunday, 5–6 p.m. on station Me TV WLWT, on channels: over the air 5-2; Spectrum 188 in Kentucky and Cincinnati Bell 23 or 291. Service learning Have something to list in “People and Events”? The dead- St. Joseph School, Crescent Springs, second-grade students learned about the Parish Kitchen. They collected socks to line for event notices is nine days prior to the desired publi- donate to the Parish Kitchen for their service learning project this year. cation date. E-mail [email protected] no later than the Wednesday before the week you would like the information icapped accessible. Dec. 15, 22, and 29, 10–4 p.m.; Dec. 24, 9– provide own transportation to and from the Sacred Heart to appear. noon. Southern Mission. Information 409-8984.

Planning an event featuring a speaker or minister from Covington Latin School entrance exam, Dec. 14, 9 a.m. All Harp concert, Dr. Diane Schneider, theologian, therapist, outside your parish? In the Diocese of Covington, before students in grades 5–8 or high school transfer students are and harpist, Celtic and inspirational music, 3 p.m., Dec. 15, contracting the services of a priest or deacon, man or invited to attend. Register online www.covingtonlatin.org. St. Benedict Church, Covington. All are invited. Freewill woman religious, or lay person, a request for verification in donations accepted. good standing must be submitted to the Chancery office no Join the Comboni Missionaries for “Breakfast in later than four weeks before the desired date of service. Bethlehem,” Dec. 14, 9–11 a.m., $2 per person ($10 per fami- Advent Lessons and Carols, Dec. 18, 6:30 p.m. Blessed Screening applications and instructions can be found at ly); all-you-can eat pancake breakfast, animated Nativity Sacrament Church, Ft. Mitchell. The story of the fall of www.covdio.org/chancery/. scene, crafts for kids, face painting and tours of the mission humanity, the promise of the Messiah, and the birth of museum. RSVP (513) 474-4997 or e-mail nolan@combonimis- Jesus in nine Bible readings or lessons, interspersed with “Angel Gabriel,” sung by Sting. “Gabriel’s Message” or sionaries.org. the singing of choir anthems and carols. Ecumenical prayer “The angel Gabriel from heaven came” is a Basque service includes music from the Blessed Sacrament Chorale Christmas folk carol about the Annunciation to the Virgin The Comboni Missionaries present a Nativity Experience: and parish Children’s Choirs. Mary by the archangel Gabriel that she would become the a room-sized display features moving figures in true-to-life mother of Jesus Christ the Son of God. Father Gregory activities, soft lighting and Bach will reflect upon the words of this carol and the life of narration (available in the Blessed Virgin Mary, Wednesdays during Advent, St. English and Spanish). Open Henry Parish, Elsmere; Mass at 7 p.m. nightly beginning Dec. 14 –30. Free admission. Call (513) 474- St. Vincent de Paul NKY “Winter Gear Give-A-Way,” 4997. 9 a.m.–12 p.m., Dec. 14, Newport Elementary School, Newport, and John G. Carlisle Elementary School, Northern Kentucky Covington. Identification is required. TANK will provide University Newman Center, free bus service (Route 7) from 8 a.m.–12 p.m., Dec. 7. mission trip, Walls, Mississippi, Dec. 14–19. Sixth annual International nativity display at Bishop College students and young Brossart High School, Alexandria. Over 150 nativity sets adults (18+). No expertise representing 65 countries. Free and open to the public; hand- needed. Participants must

Prayer buddies Advent prayer service Some of the eighth-grade students at Immaculate Heart of Mary School, Burlington, met up St. Pius X School, Edgewood, Student Council planned an Advent prayer service for the with their first-grade prayer buddies, and read some of their favorite books. school with Father Conor Kunath, parochial vicar, St. Pius X Parish. Messenger December 13, 2019 9 PEOPLE AND EVENTS

Covington Catholic High School 5th annual “CovCath Colonel Classic Robotics Tournament,” Jan. 4, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., Covington Catholic High School. Spectators welcome. Contact Bob Lind, [email protected].

“Building Communities of Welcome,” third annual prayer service and celebration of National Migration Week, Jan. 11, 2 p.m., St. Joseph Heights, Park Hills. Co–sponsored by the Sisters of Notre Dame and the Northern Kentucky Justice and Peace committee. Speaker will be Divine Providence Sister Alice Gerdeman. RSVP 496-6503.

Washington, D.C., 47th annual March for Life, Jan. 24. An adult/family bus will departs Jan. 23 and returns Jan. 25. Cost: $325 per person double occupancy, $270 per person triple occupancy, $240 per person quad occupancy. Family rates available upon request. Price includes accommoda- tions and bus travel; $50 deposit due Dec. 6. Contact Peggy Piccola at 392-1500 or e-mail [email protected].

“Reboot!” a one-evening regional event with national Catholic speaker, Chris Stefanik, speaker, author, TV host; or [email protected]. Project Rachel, God’s greatest desire is to forgive. Come NKU Student Union, Jan. 28, 7–9:30 p.m. Tickets $25, back to God who is love and mercy. Project Rachel hotline, Call 620–1813 or RealLifeCatholic.com/reboot. Madonna Manor “Project Keep Warm” donate new and (859) 392-1547 or e-mail [email protected]. All calls gently used blankets, scarves, hats, gloves and socks (new) and e-mails are confidential. Men’s and women’s restoration retreats for Cursillo for local missions and homeless shelters. Drop off Monday– PrimeWise at St. Elizabeth Healthcare offers adults, age 50 alumni. Father Robert Rottgers, Deacon Hudson Henry and Friday, 8 a.m.–8p.m.; weekends 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Call 426-6400. and over, a free network of valuable services especially suit- Deacon Jim Fortner will lead. St. Anne Retreat Center, ed to their needs and interests. It’s not a club and there are Melbourne. Men’s Retreat weekend: Jan. 31, 5:30 p.m. to Feb. Retrouvaille — a program to help couples heal and no membership dues or meetings, just lots of benefits, infor- 2, noon. Women’s Retreat weekend: Feb. 7, 5:30 p.m. to Feb, 9, renew their marriage relationship. Is your marriage going mation, programs and special discounts. PrimeWise can pro- noon. Contact Blaine Comfort 578-0133. Cost is $155. down the right road, or is it a little off track? Are you vide information on topics like advance directives and living already separated or divorced, or thinking about it? wills, Medicare and many health-related concerns. Call 301- Father Niby Kanai is leading a trip to Germany, Switzerland Retrouvaille is a Christian-based, Catholic, confidential peer 5999 or e-mail [email protected]. and France July 14-25, 2020. The focus of the trip will be the ministry of volunteer couples. Retrouvaille Cincinnati/Tri- Passion Play in Oberammergau, Germany which is per- State weekend, Jan. 10-12, call (513) 922-6045, or visit For couples in troubled marriages, Retrouvaille is a pro- formed once every 10 years. Visit www.proximotravel.com www.cincyretrouvaille.org. gram of healing and renewal consisting of one weekend for itinerary. Contact Father Niby, 525-6909. and six follow-up sessions over the course of three months. St. Charles Resource Center for the Aging is a service to Contact: www.cincyretrouvaille.org or (513) 456-5413. Bingo every Friday, St. Mary’s undercroft, Alexandria. inform, educate and empower seniors and their families who Jitney games, 7 p.m.; regular games, 8 p.m. are in need of support services. The consultation service is Free support group, Parents of Addicted Loved Ones free and aimed to educate seniors and their families to the (PAL), meets every Wednesday, 6:30 p.m.–8 p.m. at Catholic Volunteer medical interpreters are needed to help resources offered in the community and other aging issues. Charities, Latonia. Group provides continuing education Spanish speakers with specialist appointments. Rose Contact Margie Volpenhein at 331-3224, ext. 1440. and support, at no charge, for parents with a son, daughter Garden Center for Hope and Healing, 261-0323. Must be VIR- or spouse suffering from addiction to alcohol or drugs. No TUS-compliant and able to meet patients at various loca- A faith-based support group, New Beginnings provides cost. Just come. Information, 581-8974 or www.covington- tions. separated and divorced individuals the opportunity for heal- charities.org. ing and growth. Participants will find new understanding of Help Parish Kitchen, a ministry of Catholic Charities – themselves and their relationships and gain courage to dis- St. Elizabeth Hospice hosts volunteer orientation Diocese of Covington, provide warmth for the homeless this cover new life. Sessions at Thomas More University, classes. The classes explore issues on death and dying as winter. Donate new sleeping bags or new twin blankets Crestview Hills. Registration required, call 392-1500, ext. 1592. well as the overall concept of hospice care. There is no at either: Parish Kitchen, 141 W. Pike St., Covington, The next eight-week session is: Wednesdays, Jan. 8 – Feb. 26. cost or obligation to volunteer for those attending hospice Monday–Friday, 8–11 a.m. or Catholic Charities, 3629 Church training. Classes are held throughout the year. The first St., Latonia, Monday–Friday, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Contact 581-7745 session can be completed on your own time and ending with a final, daylong or evening session at the Carol Ann & Ralph V. Haile Hospice Center, Edgewood. To register call Debbie Holloran, Hospice Volunteer Coordinator, at 301-4622 or e-mail [email protected]. Registration is required.

St. Vincent de Paul, Erlanger, needs vol- unteers for the call center and food pantry for just a few hours each week. Food pantry volunteers help set up bags of food that are provided to those in need. Call center volun- teers assist with answering calls for assis- tance and data entry, 10 a.m.– 2 p.m. For information call (859) 446-7721.

There will be a Holy Hour on the third Thursday of every month, at the Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption, Covington, 3–4 p.m., to pray for victims of sexual abuse by clergy and to pray for the Church. All priests of the diocese will be in attendance; the lay faithful are invited to join. The Blessed Sacrament will be exposed, conclud- ing with the Chaplet of Divine Mercy and benediction. The sacrament of reconcilia- tion will be available during the Holy Hour. The next Holy Hour will be held Thursday, Some serious stitching Dec. 19. Some of the junior high students at St. Joseph School, Cold Spring, model the comfy lounge pants they created in Mrs. Jean Listerman’s sewing elective class. 10 December 13, 2019 Messenger

Fifteen columbaria addedtoSt.Stephen Cemetery,niches available Laura Keener additional cost for opening and closing the niche. Niches the station. Editor are now available for sale for anyone wanting to make pre- Dedication rights for the St. Stephen statue and benches In keeping up with the growing demand for cremation need arrangements. that will be added to the space are also available. The space niches, an area behind the St. Stephen Cemetery Chapel “If a family wanted to purchase a group of niches so is designed to have a meditative, park-like atmosphere has been transformed into a “Way of the Cross” colum- that the entire family can be in one location, they can do with trees encompassing the area. baria space. that,” said Mr. Knochelmann. With the addition of the columbaria, St. Stephen The Way of the Cross columbaria is an outdoor exten- Construction of the columbaria started mid-October Cemetery now has several burial or entombment options available. Traditional burial plots are available in many sections of the cemetery, including large monument sections and the flush monument lots that include a pre-installed vault. Mausoleum spaces are available at both the 1980 mausoleum and the St. Stephen Chapel mausoleum and now cremation niches are available at the new St. Stephen Cemetery Way of the Cross columbaria. For information contact the diocesan Buildings and Properties Office at (859) 392-1500 or e-mail Tricia Braun at [email protected].

Knochelmann photos

(above) One of 14 columbaria is placed in a newly renovated space St. Stephen Cemetery, Ft. Thomas. (above center) Each columbarium features a bronze plaque depicting a sion of the St. Stephen Station of the Cross. (above left) An aerial view of the St. Stephen Mausoleum Chapel Mausoleum Chapel. Its center- with the columbaria installed. (below left) The columbaria are crafted from red and gray piece — a statue of St. Stephen granite matching the chapel and house 80 cremation niches. atop a hexagon columbarium — located directly outside the chapel doors. “Everything is symmetrical,” said Donald Knochelmann, diocesan director, Buildings and Properties. “When you pull up to the chapel the sun sets on the other side and if you look through the front glass and out the back you will see the statue of St. Stephen.” and will be complete by the end of the year, Mr. In a U-shape around the St. Stephen statue are 14 colum- Knochelmann said. The statue of St. Stephen will be baria each with a bronze plaque depicting a Station of the installed in the spring with dedication of the space on Cross. The columbaria measure 7 feet tall, by 10 feet long Memorial Day 2020. and 4 feet wide. Each columbarium houses 80 niches for Mr. Knochelmann said that dedication rights are avail- the entombment of cremains — 40 single unit niches and able for each of the Stations of the Cross — the dedication Call ahead and we can 40 double unit niches; the St. Stephen columbarium hous- rights for the sixth station (Veronica wipes the face of have them ready for you. es 72 niches — 12 niches per side. The cost of a single unit Jesus) and the 14th station (Jesus is placed in the tomb) niche is $1,500; double unit niches are $2,500, which have already been claimed — for $5,000 per station. A includes engraving. At the time of interment, there is an bronze plaque with the family name will be placed under

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TrustinChrist, notinpsychics,sorcerers, pope saysataudience Junno Arocho Esteves asked. “Magic is not Christian! These things that are done bring you everything! Pray and trust in the Lord.” Catholic News Service to predict the future or predict many things or change sit- At the audience, the pope resumed his series of talks on VATICAN CITY — Pope Francis scolded people who uations in life are not Christian. The grace of Christ can the Acts of the Apostles, reflecting on St. Paul’s ministry in consider themselves practic- Ephesus, a “famous center for the practice of magic.” In ing Christians, but who turn the city, St. Paul baptized many people, and drew the ire of to fortunetelling, psychic read- the silversmiths who made a business of crafting idols. ings and tarot cards. While the uprising of the silversmiths eventually was True faith means abandon- resolved, the pope recounted, St. Paul made his way to ing oneself to God “who Miletus to deliver a farewell speech to elders of Ephesus. makes himself known not The pope called the apostle’s speech “one of the most through occult practices but beautiful pages of the Acts of the Apostles,” and he asked through revelation and with the faithful to read chapter 20. gratuitous love,” the pope said The chapter includes an exhortation of St. Paul to the Dec. 4 during his weekly gen- elders to “keep watch over yourselves and over the whole eral audience in St. Peter’s flock.” Square. Pope Francis said that priests, bishops and the pope Departing from his pre- himself must be vigilant and “close to the people to guard pared remarks, the pope called them and defend them,” rather than being “disconnected out Christians who seek reas- from the people.” surance from practitioners of “Let us ask the Lord to renew in us his love for the magic. Church and for the deposit of the faith which she pre- “How is it possible, if you serves, and to make us all co-responsible in the care of the believe in Jesus Christ, you go CNS photo/Paul Haring flock, supporting in prayer the shepherds so that they may to a sorcerer, a fortuneteller, Pope Francis greets the crowd during his general audience in St. Peter’s Square at the manifest the firmness and tenderness of the Divine these types of people?” he Vatican Dec. 4, 2019. Shepherd,” the pope said. USCCB president urges special prayers for pope’s 50 yearsasapriest Catholic News Service ops. They were developed by Lucy. Church practice allows The Catholic faithful across the United States are being the USCCB Secretariat for for the celebrant to use an invited to pray for Pope Francis as he celebrates 50 years as a Divine Worship. optional special Mass for the priest. The USCCB also plans a day, including one identified Los Angeles Archbishop Jose H. Gomez, president of the social media effort to spread as “For the Pope.” The mate- U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, has sent a letter to bish- the message about the rials suggest that the Mass ops across the country asking them to encourage parish- prayers. “would be appropriate to use ioners to honor the jubilee during Advent with special Archbishop Gomez in honor of the 50 years of prayers and Mass petitions. encouraged bishops to share priesthood of Pope Francis.” The letter included a prayer for the pope as well as two the prayers with parishes, The petition texts are: petitions that can be used at Mass or in praying the Liturgy of schools and other diocesan the Hours. The archbishop also invited the faithful to use any ministries. — For our Holy Father Pope other appropriate prayer for the pope if they desire. Supporting materials Francis as we celebrate the Four days before Pope Francis celebrates his 83rd birthday sent with the letter noted 50th anniversary of his ordi- Dec. 17, he will celebrate 50 years as a priest — a ministry he that Dec. 13, the anniversary nation to the priesthood, sees as being a shepherd who walks with his flock and yearns of the pope’s priestly ordina- that Jesus the High Priest will to find those who are lost. tion, is a weekday in Advent continue to renew, increase, The prayers are being sent in English and Spanish to bish- and the memorial of St. and strengthen in him the graces received at ordination as he carries out his sacred ministry in the Holy Church. — That the example of the many years of faithful priest- hood of Pope Francis will be a source of inspiration for all priests, and awaken in young people their own call to serv- ice in the church for the sal- vation of souls. 12 December 13, 2019 Messenger

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Update: Beatification for Obituary Archbishop Sheen postponed Bishop Daniel R. Jenky of Peoria said Vatican officials teaching full-time. She continually sharpened her skills at have told him that the upcoming beatification of American Sign Language to help the students who depend- Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen has been postponed. A news Notre Dame Sister de Namur Rosemarie Pohlman ed on her for individual instruction through signing. release from the Diocese of Peoria said it was informed died Nov. 21 in Cincinnati, Ohio, at the age of 67. A native Sister Rosemarie’s work with the deaf community went Dec. 2 that Vatican had decided to postpone the Dec. 21 cer- of Covington, Ky., she was in her 43rd year of religious life. beyond her work in schools including participating in the emony “at the request of a few members” of the U.S. In 1974, Sister Rosemarie entered Ministry Formation program for Conference of Catholic Bishops. Details on what prompt- with the Sisters of Notre Dame in Catholic Deaf Adults in Chicago, and ed the bishops to intervene were unknown. The diocese Covington, Ky., with a dream of class- being part of the American Catholic added, “In our current climate it is important for the faith- room ministry. Because of a hearing delegation to the International Deaf ful to know that there has never been, nor is there now, any impairment, she instead ministered in Catholic Community papal audience allegation against (Archbishop) Sheen involving the the sewing room and took care of and pilgrimage to Italy in 2008. abuse of a minor.” A Dec. 5 statement from the Diocese of housekeeping duties for nearly 20 As Sister Rosemarie’s hearing Rochester, New York, said it had “expressed concern about years. impairment grew progressively worse, advancing the cause for the beatification of Archbishop In 1993 after receiving a Master of she made the decision to retire from Sheen at this time without a further review of his role in Arts in Deaf Education, Sister teaching and accept a new challenge as priests’ assignments.” The statement said the Rochester Rosemarie received permission to technology coordinator. She solved Diocese, prior to Vatican announcement Nov. 18 that Pope teach hearing impaired children part- connectivity and technology issues, Francis approved the beatification, had provided docu- time. At the end of the year, she accept- improved equipment, and purchased mentation expressing its concern to the Diocese of Peoria ed the position on a full-time basis. and set up new computers. She contin- and the Congregation for Saints’ Causes via the apostolic In 1999, Sister Rosemarie left the ually researched better ways to connect nunciature in Washington. Archbishop Sheen was bishop Sisters of Notre Dame in Covington to sisters. of Rochester from October 1966 until his retirement in take time to listen deeply to whether or Sister Rosemarie had a deep sense October 1969. He received the title of archbishop at retire- not God was calling her to continue liv- of the importance of words in relation- ment. ing vowed religious life. She continued ships, beginning with her relationship teaching full-time and deepened rela- with God. She knew that at its heart tionships in her parish and broader was deep listening to God’s word in the community. world, in relationships, and in the quiet In 2001, she entered with the Sisters center of her heart. Moving? Wrong address? of Notre Dame de Namur, continuing Memorials on behalf of Sister the spirituality and work of St. Julie Sister de Namur Rosemarie Pohlman, Rosemarie may be made to the Call the circulation desk, Billiart that she had begun with the S.N.D.deN. Retirement Fund of the Sisters of (859) 392-1570 Notre Dame community in Covington. Notre Dame, 701 E. Columbia Avenue, For the next 12 years, Sister Rosemarie continued Cincinnati, OH 45215.

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For all employees and background check. posted on your account. volunteers of the Diocese Selection.com is a secure You will receive 12 bulletins Note: If your Training Tab of Covington who in any site; the background check per year. You will receive is missing or you cannot way is posted on your account e-mail notices at access your account, provide a safe environment and you receive a copy if [email protected] contact your parish, school for children. you request it during the unless your computer or institution. Step 1: Meet with registration process. You program blocks them. For other difficulties, parish/school will also sign up for a Bulletin contact Marylu Steffen institution leader to VIRTUS class during the at (859) 392-1500 or n December bulletin: review the Policies and registration. [email protected]. Procedures and fill out Step 3: Attend the posted Sunday, Dec. 1; the Application and VIRTUS session you chose. due Tuesday, Jan. 6. Acceptance Forms. No children, please. VIRTUS Trainings Step 2: Go to Step 4: Your account n Catholic Charities, www.virtus.org and click becomes active when Latonia (Mary Moser on Registration. Follow the your background check, Room) Wednesday, prompts to create an VIRTUS session and Feb.12, 1:30–5 p.m. account and to request a Acceptance Form are

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“The Good Liar” (Warner Bros.) Elegant but ultimate- seeks answers among the eccentric members of the milder oaths, a couple of rough terms, frequent crude and ly dark suspense yarn in which a ruthless con man sets his deceased’s conflict-ridden family. He also enlists the help of crass language, an obscene gesture. CNS: A-III; MPAA: PG- sights on the fortune of a vulnerable, naive widow, skillful- the late author’s caring and sensible Latina nurse. Writer- 13. ly ingratiating him- director Rian Johnson’s richly entertaining ensemble self with her after ini- homage to Agatha Christie has clever twist and turns, “Queen & Slim” (Universal) Volatile drama examining Movie tially making contact abundant humor and sly social commentary. Though the alienation between the police and the African through a dating web- strictly for grown-ups, it’s a brainy and satisfying movie. American community. Driving home from a first date, a Capsule site. Despite the objec- Brief gory violence, a morally complex situation, drug couple of new acquaintances are stopped and harassed by tions of her worried use, sexual references, about a dozen profanities, a few a white officer. As the situation escalates, the cop wounds grandson, she gradu- the young woman and is, in turn, shot dead by the young ally falls into his trap. But savvy viewers will sense from man. In a panic, the duo flees from Ohio to New Orleans the start that things are more complicated than they ini- where they take temporary refuge with her estranged tially appear. Director Bill Condon’s sophisticated adapta- For full reviews of each of these films — go to catholic- uncle. He helps them plan an escape to Cuba via Florida tion of Nicholas Searle’s novel, which also features Jim and the further stages of their journey find them being Carter as the trickster’s partner, offers intelligent enter- news.com and click on “Extras,” then choose “Movies.” aided by a white couple and forming a brief friendship tainment powered by excellent performances. Some styl- Catholic News Service (CNS) classifications are: with a youngster who regards them as heroes. As scripted ized but harsh violence, including torture and a discreetly • A-I — general patronage; by Lena Waithe, director Melina Matsoukas’ film doesn’t portrayed sexual assault, brief upper and rear nudity, an consistently show the restraint and balance its mortally incidental gay relationship, a same-sex kiss, occasional • A-II — adults and adolescents; serious subject matter requires. And, while it includes a rough and crude language, references to sexual activity. • A-III — adults; welcome emphasis on faith and a sober portrayal of the CNS: A-III; MPAA: R. mayhem inherent in the story, the seamy atmosphere that • L — limited adult audience; surrounds Woodbine’s character is followed up by a need- “Knives Out” (Lionsgate) Splendid comic whodunit in • O — morally offensive. lessly prolonged and explicit sex scene. Some gory vio- which a shrewd Southern detective is hired by an anony- lence, strong sexual content, including graphic premarital mous client to investigate the death of a famous and sexual activity with upper female and rear nudity, drug wealthy crime novelist. Though the police lieutenant and use, a couple of profanities, a few milder oaths, pervasive trooper assigned to the case insist it was suicide, the sleuth rough and crude language. CNS: O; MPAA: R.

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National/World ple-power movements around the world,” said as well as for their families, military service region just south of Mexico City did not want to Maria Stephan, director of the nonviolent members and first responders, and those who venture out of their homes after dark. “These action program at the U.S. Institute of Peace. were injured,” Bishop Wack said in a statement, are situations where people are scared. It’s a Supreme Court leaves “People are protesting for a variety of causes,” adding: “We ask for God’s peace and mercy on fear that paralyzes them,” Bishop Castro told but some of the underlying reasons for discon- our community. Please join me in prayer during local media Dec. 4, according to the newspaper temporary stop on federal tent are similar, she told Catholic News Service. this time of mourning.” El Universal. “There are many people I know executions in place One is the growing gap between the wealthiest who have nothing to do with organized crime, and poorest people. “We’re in an era of peak Mexican diocese suspends but find themselves affected by this violence and WASHINGTON — The U.S. Supreme Court has global inequality,” in which people feel “dis- have changed their lifestyle,” he said, adding left in place a preliminary injunction prohibiting trustful of systems that seem to be leaving them Masses due to insecurity church attendance is the southern and eastern the Trump administration from carrying out the behind,” Stephan said. Another trend she calls CUERNAVACA, Mexico — The Diocese of parts of Morelos — a small state that borders first federal executions in 16 years. In an order “troubling” is a return to authoritarian govern- Cuernavaca has suspended evening Masses due the national capital — has dropped due to inse- handed down the evening of Dec. 6, the justices ments in various countries. “There is a link to insecurity in the city and surrounding state curity. The bishop also said he had registered unanimously denied an application by the U.S. between the backsliding of democracy and the of Morelos, a reflection of the violence raging in four cases of extortion committed against Department of Justice to lift a federal court inclination of people to take to the street and parts of Mexico and its impact on the Catholic women religious in the diocese. Mexico has had injunction blocking the federal government from not trust as much in traditional processes and Church. Bishop Ramon Castro Castro of high rates of violence and homicide over the carrying out four executions scheduled for institutions,” she said. Those street demonstra- Cuernavaca said church services would not be past 13 years as the country launched a crack- December 2019 and January 2020. In November, tions are largely organized through social celebrated after dark because people in the down on drug cartels and organized crime. U.S. District Court Judge Tanya Chutkan of the media, giving them a spontaneous feel, although District of Columbia temporarily halted the they often build on years of organization and upcoming executions of four federal death-row previous protest. Nevertheless, there is “a differ- inmates, who had challenged the constitutionali- ence between quick mobilization and sustained ty of the lethal injection protocol to be used in organization,” she said. “It will be interesting to their executions. When U.S. Attorney General see whether these spontaneous protests are able William Barr announced in July that the govern- to establish legs and maintain longevity and ment was reinstating the federal death penalty bring about reforms.” after a 16-year hiatus, he said the executions would use a single drug instead of a three-drug Pope calls for teaching youth protocol used in recent federal executions and used by several states. Several of the inmates to be active citizens challenged the use of the single lethal injection. VATICAN CITY — Young people need train- Chutkan said these lethal injections go against ing in how to be active citizens focused on the the Federal Death Penalty Act of 1994, which care of the human person and the environment, states federal executions should be carried out Pope Francis said. “Technological innovation is “in the manner prescribed by the law of the state also needed to achieve these goals, and young in which the sentence is imposed.” people, if well motivated, will in fact be able to attain them, since they have been born and Court won’t take challenge raised in today’s fast-paced technological to Ky. law requiring world,” he added. The pope’s remarks came in his address Dec. 9 to members of the “A Chance ultrasound before abortion in Life” foundation, which helps at-risk youth in WASHINGTON — The U.S. Supreme Court many countries. Formerly known as Boys and Dec. 9 declined to take up a challenge to a Girls Towns of Italy, the organization’s work is Kentucky ultrasound law that requires a physi- still built on the vision of its founder, the late- cian or qualified technician to perform an ultra- Msgr. John Patrick Carroll-Abbing. The pope sound on a woman seeking an abortion and praised the organization’s initiatives that have show the screen images to her. The petition to benefited thousands of boys and girls and “offer the court did not get the required four justices children and adolescents in situations of partic- to sign on to hear an appeal of an April 4 ruling ular hardship a chance to surmount their diffi- by the 6th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals over- culties and to realize fully God’s plan for each of turning a lower court decision that the law vio- them.” To be more effective in carrying out its lated doctors’ freedom of speech as guaranteed mission in today’s world, the foundation is also by the First Amendment. The Kentucky looking for ways to promote recommendations Ultrasound Informed Consent Act law can take made in the pope’s encyclical, “Laudato Si’.” effect immediately. It was passed in early 2017 by Kentucky’s House and Senate and signed into Florida bishop calls mass law by then-Gov. Matt Bevin. A Kentucky abor- shooting at naval station tion provider, EMW Women’s Surgical, filed suit against the law on free speech grounds. “March ‘truly heartbreaking’ for Life applauds the U.S. Supreme Court deci- PENSACOLA, Fla. — Reacting to “the horrif- sion today upholding a Kentucky ultrasound ic mass shooting” that took place early Dec. 6 at law,” said Jeanne Mancini, president of March Naval Air Station Pensacola, Bishop William A. for Life. “Women facing an unexpected pregnan- Wack of Pensacola-Tallahassee said the cy deserve to have as much medically and tech- “tragedy in our diocese is truly heartbreaking.” nically accurate information as possible when Three people were shot dead and many others they are making what could be the most impor- were injured in the shooting and the suspected tant decision of their life.” gunman was a trainee with the Saudi Air Force, according to Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis. At a Experts: Protests reflect news conference, law enforcement officials said world frustration with eight people were taken to local hospitals; one of those injured died. Two officers who responded inequality, corruption to the shooting were among those injured. The WASHINGTON — From Chile to Haiti to gunman died in the shooting, said Escambia Hong Kong, protests appear to be sweeping the County Sheriff David Morgan, adding that a globe. Although sparked by different events, county officer “negated the threat” after they also reflect a common frustration with eco- responding to the scene. The motive for the nomic inequality and corrupt governments, shooting was still unknown. “Our sympathy and experts say. “We seem to be in the midst of peo- prayers go out to those whose lives were taken, 16 December 13, 2019 Messenger

Rose Garden Home Mission15th annual Thanksgiving meal distribution serves hundredsof local families

Fifteen years ago a local businessman donated 20 turkeys to the Franciscan Daughters of Mary just two months after they moved into the convent at St. Benedict Parish, Covington. The sisters had not yet opened the Rose Garden Home Mission, but they accepted the donation in faith, knowing that the Lord would have a plan. A day or two later the sisters received a call from a local Girl Scout Troop who wanted to do a service project. The sisters asked if the troop would donate 20 bags of groceries to go with the turkeys. The Girl Scout leader agreed and two days before Thanksgiving that year the sisters loaded their van with the turkeys and groceries and went door-to- door in their neighborhood on East 16th Street giving the neighbors a Thanksgiving meal that they could enjoy with their families. Each year since then individuals have given monetary donations for turkeys and a Rose Garden volunteer would shop for the best price on turkey. The last couple of years, the Mission has had turkey money left over, which has been used to purchase hams and turkeys to give to families at their annual Christmas Give-Away. This year, just two days before Thanksgiving, the Rose Garden Home Mission gave away 760 turkeys and fix- ings to needy neighbors in Covington and the surrounding areas at their annual Thanksgiving Give-Away. The Rose Garden Home Mission received so many donations of food to accompany the turkeys this year that volunteers had to assist neighbors to their cars with the bags.