January 24, 2020 In This Issue ESSEESSENGERNGER M Serving the Diocese of Covington, Kentucky since 1926

Special Thomas More University begins‘ComingtoYou’tour Section: Catholic to engage alumni and build momentum for centennial Schools Staff report President Joseph Chillo and pages 11-22 members of Thomas More University administration are pack- The TMU is ‘Coming to You’ Tour ing their bags for the Thomas More locations: 2 Retired priest recovers lost is “Coming to You” tour. The group Indianapolis, Indiana — Thursday, Feb. 6 class ring will travel across the country for a series of welcome receptions to Jacksonville, Florida — Friday, Feb. 21 2 DPAA 2020 gather with alumni and friends of Tampa, Florida — Saturday, Feb. 22 the university. Fort Myers, Florida — Monday, Feb. 24 “We are very excited to announce 3 St. Vincent de Paul’s that President Chillo and our team Orlando, Florida — Tuesday, Feb. 25 first-time fundraiser are traveling to Indianapolis on Feb. Dayton, Ohio — Tuesday, March 10 Showcasing local 6 to kick off the Thomas More is ‘Coming to You Tour,’” said Bailey Columbus, Ohio — Thursday, March 12 student artwork Bundy, director of Alumni and Louisville, Kentucky — Wednesday, March 18 Parent Engagement. “With this Lexington, Kentucky — Thursday, March 19 6 Sisters of Divine Providence being President Chillo’s first year in office, what better way to welcome Scottsdale, Arizona — Wednesday, April 15 focus on care for creation him into the community than with a Washington, D.C. — Thursday, April 23 series of receptions across the coun- try?” Each event will offer an opportu- nity for guests to interact with President Chillo as he shares his More in the convenience of their own cities,” said Ms. Bundy. “It is vision for the future of TMU. During the receptions, guests will also our hope that the tour will foster community and build pride and hear more about recent success and changes at TMU, learn about momentum as we anticipate on our centennial celebrations next joining the President’s Society and receive insider news regarding year.” the state of the university. All events are free of change and will include complimentary “We currently have more than 14,000 alumni across all 50 states. food and beverages. This tour will offer a special experience for our alumni, friends and For more information, including venue locations and times, families to build and strengthen their relationships with Thomas visit thomasmore.edu or contact [email protected]. Moving? Wrong address? Call the circulation desk, that perhaps a cleaning was all that was (859) 392-1570 Obscure artist once saved Duveneck needed. But Blank explained in his letter that a cleaning wasn’t the answer: the murals from total ruin murals were actually in a rapid state of decay, and that a radical restoration and Bishop’s Schedule ...... 3 Stephen Enzweiler preservation effort was necessary in order to save them. Commentary ...... 4 Cathedral Historian The news must have stunned the hopeful Father Flynn. The On a cold November day in 1920, a letter arrived at St. Mary’s People and Events ...... 8 murals were only ten years old; how could they have deteriorated so Cathedral rectory addressed to the Very Rev. Joseph Flynn, Vicar Saint Snippet ...... 9 quickly? They were by then already among the most famous church Classifieds ...... 24 murals in America, and with Duveneck’s Entertainment ...... 26 death the previous year, even greater Shopper’s Guide ...... 26 attention was being paid to their histori- News Briefs ...... 27 cal and artistic significance. But there was never any hesitation in the priest’s mind about what to do. In the end, Blank Missed an edition? Current and back was given permission to do whatever was issues of the Messenger are available necessary to save them. online at covdio.org/messenger. The murals can trace their origins back to the summer of 1903 and Covington’s third Bishop, the Most Rev. Camillus P. Maes. Frank Duveneck was one of the most famous artists in America. Henry James called him “the unsuspected genius,” and famed painter John Singer Sargent similarly declared he was “the greatest genius of the American brush.” Bishop Maes, who knew and appreciated fine art, was a great admirer, and he was determined to acquire the talents of this quiet genius for murals he wanted in his Cathedral. A dia- log between the two men began that sum- mer, and Duveneck sent Maes sketches

Photo by Stephen Enzweiler which the bishop found “striking.” On Frank Duveneck’s magnificent triptych mural in the Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption is Sept. 24th, Maes explained his vision for considered a masterpiece of American sacred art. Photo by Stephen Enzweiler the work in a letter. “The central idea is the sacrifice of Jesus Christ on the Cross,” he wrote. “This is admirably brought out General of the Diocese of Covington. It was from William E. Blank, in the Central panel; to carry out the idea that before Christ as well a Cincinnati artist Flynn had hired to come in and clean the cathe- as after the Resurrection, that self-same Sacrifice is the perpetual dral’s chapel murals painted a decade earlier by local artist Frank obligation in the true Church of God, we will – if you please, depict Duveneck (1848-1919). In the ten years since their installation, the famous paintings had begun to show signs of wear. Flynn thought (Continued on page 23) 2 January 24, 2020 Messenger

Keener photos DPAA 2020 Preparations for the 2020 “Hope Does Not Disappoint: The Love of God Has Been Poured Out Into Our Hearts” Diocesan Parish Annual Appeal quickly got underway, Jan. 14. What was lost has been found Mark Czarnik, videographer, A-1 Professional Video, was at the Cathedral Basilica of the Administrators at Newport Central Catholic High School received a call, Jan. 6, from a Assumption recordinging Bishop Roger Foys’ DPAA message. Immediately following the woman who, while going through her mother’s old jewelry box, found a 1945 Newport taping, DPAA chairs, Mary Paula Schuh, general chair, and Randy Rawe, leadership gifts Catholic High School class ring. Her mother told her that she found it years and years ago chair, met with the staff of the Stewardship and Mission Services Office to finalize details. and thought that there was no hope to find the owner. Engraved on the inside of the ring Pictured (from left) are: Elizabeth Champ, database coordinator; Joanie Lecoy, administra- were the initials, and school officials were able to reference school records. The ring, they tive assistant; Michael Murray, director; Mr. Rawe; Mrs. Schuh; and Jennifer Cox, DPAA discovered, belonged to Father Robert Rosing. secretary. This year’s DPAA kick-off dinners will be held March 3 at The Prizing House, Father Rosing confirmed that he lost the ring a few years before he was ordained to the Cynthiana, and March 5, at Receptions, Erlanger. At both events a Ministry Fair will be priesthood, which was 67 years ago. He immediately wanted to see if the ring still fit, and held giving parishioners an opportunity to meet with members of the diocesan Curia and it did — perfectly. He was so grateful and happy to have his ring back, which he hadn’t local social service agencies that receive DPAA service grants. Parishioners interested in seen in about 70 years. Father Rosing said that he thought the ring coming back into his attending a DPAA dinner should contact the Office of Stewardship and Mission Services life was very providential and will keep NCC in his heart and prayers. at (859) 392-1500. God’sword can neverbe‘enchained,’pope saysatgeneral audience Junno Arocho Esteves By choosing to close the Acts of the Apostles not with “This house open to all hearts is the image of the Catholic News Service St. Paul’s martyrdom but with his continuing to preach the Church which — although persecuted, misunderstood and VATICAN CITY — A true apostle is one who continues Gospel even while under house arrest, St. Luke wanted to chained — never tires of welcoming with a motherly heart to be a courageous and joyful evangelizer even in the face show that the word of God cannot be “enchained,” the every man and woman to proclaim to them the love of the of persecution and certain death, Pope Francis said. pope said Jan. 15 during his weekly general audience. Father who made himself visible in Jesus,” he said. The pope concluded his series of talks on the Acts of the Apostles with a reflection on St. Paul’s imprisonment in Rome. St. Paul’s treacherous journey and adventures to “the heart of the empire,” he said, did not weaken the Gospel he preached but instead strengthened it by “showing that the direction of events does not belong to men but to the Holy Spirit, who gives fruitfulness to the Church’s missionary action.” During his imprisonment, the pope continued, the apos- tle would meet with notable Jewish people in his efforts to show “the fulfillment of the promises made to the chosen people” through Christ’s death and resurrection. While not everyone was convinced by his preaching, St. Paul continued to welcome anyone “who wanted to receive the proclamation of the kingdom of God and to know Christ,” which is a grace that all Christians should pray for, he said. May the Lord “enable us, like Paul, to imbue our houses with the Gospel and to make them cenacles of fraternity, where we can welcome the living Christ, who comes to meet us in every person and in every age,” Pope Francis said. CNS photo/Paul Haring Pope Francis speaks during his general audience in Paul VI hall at the Vatican Jan. 15, 2020. Also pictured is Archbishop Georg Ganswein, prefect of the papal house- hold. Messenger January 24, 2020 3

Art students collaborate with St.Vincentde Paul Society for upcoming fundraiser Religion teacher/Catechist Certification Program and Allegra Thatcher the silent auction with the center. Most are from NKU, but Adult Faith studies Assistant Editor students from the University of Cincinnati, Mount St. St. Vincent de Paul of Northern Kentucky is branching Joseph, and even Notre Dame Academy are also contribut- The Office of Catechesis and Evangelization out with an all-new fundraising event: an art night in coop- ing. Ms. Zengel said the pace picked up in November and offers stimulating classes for teachers, eration with students from local universities. In an event December after the word spread about the project. parish catechists, diaconate aspirants and titled “Creative Compassion: A Night of Art for our The silent auction features the artwork as well as any adult who would like to expand their Neighbors in Need,” the society invites guests donated baskets and some unique donations knowledge of the Catholic faith — and donors to New Riff Distillery in Newport from the various thrift stores, such as fur everyone is welcome to attend any on Thursday, Feb. 6, 6–9 p.m. coats and decorative vases. course/workshop. The innovative evening will feature a “That’s so everyone can get a feel that a silent auction of student-created artwork, thrift store is much more than second The courses are separated into two cate- as well as heavy appetizers and drinks by hand clothing,” said Ms. Zengel. “Basic gories: Certification Core Courses (c) and Eat Well Celebrations and Feasts. necessities are important to our mission, Maintenance Courses (m). All courses are “We’re trying to be creative in the way but some of those more unique items we’re open to anyone interested. we reach out to the community,” said Karen able to sell for the benefit of our programs.” Zengel, executive director. A key factor to the event, she said, is to help “Praying All Ways” (c), Jan. 25, Feb. 1; “Our partners across the river in Cincinnati people understand that “when you make a dona- 9 a.m.–12 p.m., Rosanne Thomas, Blessed do a fashion show in partnership with DAAP at tion to St. Vincent de Paul, your donation goes back Sacrament Parish, Ft. Mitchell University of Cincinnati and so we wanted to do some- to helping us spread that goodness. … We couldn’t do it thing similar but different,” she said. without community support.” “Using Art in Faith Formation” (c), Feb. That’s how Ms. Zengel and her coworkers found them- Ms. Zengel especially credited presenting sponsor 8, 15; 9 a.m.–12:30 p.m., Rosanne Thomas, selves in classrooms at Northern Kentucky University MidWest Pay Link as well as St. Elizabeth Healthcare, Blessed Sacrament Parish, Ft. Mitchell (NKU) inviting students from the School of the Arts to Trivaco, Forcht Bank, Altus Wealth Management, Eagle “Introduction to Scripture” (c), Feb. 29; choose an item off a shelf at the Thrift Store and create a Savings Bank and Assured Insurance for supporting the work of art from it. The pieces will be on display at the event. 9 a.m.–2 p.m., Father Andrew Young, Curia event and auctioned off. She and her committee of staff and volunteers can’t Building, Bishop Howard Memorial “Our mission has the opportunity to fundraise and the wait to see the artwork come in and the turnout at the dis- Auditorium, Covington students get some exposure to people who might be inter- tillery. “Bioethics” (m), March 7, 14; 9 a.m.–2 ested in commissioning art from them in the future,” said Tickets are on sale now at $65 a ticket. Tickets can be p.m., Father Ray Enzweiler, Curia Building, Ms. Zengel. “It’s a good way for them to network their tal- purchased on the St. Vincent de Paul NKY home page at Bishop Howard Memorial Auditorium, ent.” www.svdpnky.org. The students, 22 in all, will each split the proceeds of Covington “Introduction to Catholic Spirituality” (c), March 14, 21; 9 a.m.–2 p.m., Claire Therese, St. Mary Parish, Alexandria Monthly Holy Hour For more information or to register visit www.covdio.org/catechesis-and-faith-forma- Bishop Roger Foys led the monthly tion/ or call (859) 392-1500. Walk-ins Holy Hour for accepted, but preregistration is encouraged. Victims of Sexual Abuse and Sanctification of Priests, Jan. 16 at the Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption in Covington. The next holy hour will Bishop’s be Feb. 20 at 3 p.m. Schedule

Jan. 23 Jan. 29 Priests Continuing Education Diocesan Catholic Schools Committee meeting, 10 a.m. Week Mass, Cathedral Basilica, Jan. 23–25 10 a.m. Annual March for Life, Individual meeting, 2 p.m. Washington, D.C. Thatcher photo Jan. 30 Jan. 26 Catholic Schools Week Mass, Mass, Cathedral Basilica of the Bishop Brossart High School, Assumption, Covington, St. Mary Church, Alexandria, ‘Reboot’ 10 a.m. 9:45 a.m. It’s time to start living the life you were made for and Jan. 27 Individual meeting, 2 p.m. Individual meeting, 10 a.m. the Northern Kentucky University, Catholic Newman Confirmation, St. Pius X Parish, Center is hosting a “Reboot.” Filming “The Chair,” Edgewood, 7 p.m. Cathedral Basilica, 1:30 p.m. “Reboot” is billed as a life-changing event with Chris Jan. 31 Confirmation, St. Joseph Parish, Individual meeting, 10 a.m. Stefanick, internationally acclaimed author and speaker, Crescent Springs, 7 p.m. offering a fun, inspiring and practical experience for all Jan. 31–Feb. 1 (ages 12 and up). At Reboot, Mr. Stefanick will share Jan. 28 Monthly day of recollection, how to apply the beauty and genius of the Gospel to Catholic Schools Week Mass, St. Gertrude Priory, Madeira St. Augustine Parish, every aspect of life — prayer, work, dating, marriage, Feb. 2 Covington, 8 a.m. parenting, health and more. Mass, Cathedral Basilica, Staff luncheon, 11:30 a.m. 10 a.m. Reboot will be held Jan. 28, 7–9:30 p.m. at the NKU Episcopal Council meeting, Student Union Center. Tickets are $25; 1 p.m. call (859) 620-1813 or visit RealLifeCatholic.com/reboot. Confirmation, St. Cecilia Parish, Independence, 7 p.m. 4 January 24, 2020 Messenger COMMENTARY The little way Most of us have heard of St. Therese of Lisieux, a refers to our own littleness, to our own radical poverty motivation. We are invited to act out of our littleness and French mystic who died at age 24 in 1897 and who is per- before God. Before God, we are little. To accept and act anonymity and do small acts of love and service to others haps the most popular saint of the last two centuries. out of that constitutes humility. We move towards God for a particular reason, that is, to, metaphorically, wipe She’s famous for many things, not least for a spirituality and others in her “little way” when we do small acts of the face of the suffering Christ. How so? she called her “little way.” charity for others, not out of our strength and the virtue Therese of Lisieux was an extremely blessed and gift- What’s her “little way”? we feel at that moment, but rather out of a poverty, pow- ed person. Despite a lot of tragedy in her early life, she IN EXILE Popular thought has erlessness and emptiness that allows God’s grace to work was (by her own admission and testimony of others) often encrusted both through us; so that in doing what we’re drawing others to loved in a way that was so pure, so deep, and so wonder- Therese and her “little God and not to ourselves. fully affectionate that it leaves most people in envy. She way” within a simple piety As well, our littleness makes us aware that, for the was also a very attractive child and was bathed in love that doesn’t do justice to most part, we cannot do the big things that shape world and security inside an extended family within which her the depth of her person or history. But we can change the world more humbly, by every smile and tear were noticed, honored, (and often her spirituality. Too often sowing a hidden seed, by being a hidden antibiotic of photographed). But as she grew in maturity it didn’t take her “little way” is under- health inside the soul of humanity, and by splitting the her long to notice that what was true in her life wasn’t stood simply to mean that atom of love inside our own selves. And yes, too, the “lit- true of most others. Their smiles and tears went mostly we do little, hidden, hum- tle way” is about doing little, humble, hidden things. unnoticed and were not honored. Her “little way” is ble, acts of charity for oth- Anonymity: Therese’s “little way” refers to what’s hid- therefore predicated on this particular motivation. ers in the name of Jesus, den, to what’s done in secret, so that what the Father sees In her own words: without expecting anything in secret will be rewarded in secret. And what’s hidden is “One Sunday, looking at a picture of Our Lord on the Father Ron Rolheiser in return. In this popular not our act of charity, but we, ourselves, who are doing Cross, I was struck by the blood flowing from one of his interpretation we do the the act. In Therese’s “little way” our little acts of charity divine hands. I felt a pang of great sorrow when thinking laundry, peel potatoes and smile at unpleasant people to will go mostly unnoticed, will seemingly have no real this blood was falling on the ground without anyone’s please Jesus. In some ways, of course, this is true. impact on world history, and won’t bring us any recogni- hastening to gather it up. I was resolved to remain in spir- However her “little way” merits a deeper understanding. tion. They’ll remain hidden and unnoticed; but inside the it at the foot of the Cross and to receive its dew … Oh, I Yes, it does ask us to do humble chores and be nice to Body of Christ what’s hidden — selfless, unnoticed, self- don’t want this precious blood to be lost. I shall spend my each other in the name of Jesus but there are deeper effacing, and seemingly insignificant and unimportant — life gathering it up for the good of souls … To live from dimensions to it. Her “little way” is a path to sanctity is the most vital vehicle of all for grace at a deeper level. love is to dry Your Face.” based on three things: littleness, anonymity, and a partic- Just as Jesus did not save us through sensational mira- To live her “little way” is to notice and honor the ular motivation. cles and headline-making deeds but through selfless obe- unnoticed tears falling from the suffering faces of others. Littleness: For Therese “littleness” does not refer first dience to his Father and quiet martyrdom, our deeds too Oblate Father Ron Rolheiser, theologian, teacher, and of all to the littleness of the act that we are doing, like the can remain unknown so that our deaths and the spirit we award-winning author, is President of the Oblate School of humble tasks of doing the laundry, peeling potatoes or leave behind can become our real fruitfulness. Theology in San Antonio, Texas. giving a simple smile to someone who’s unpleasant. It Finally, her “little way” is predicated on a particular God’s loveisunconditional Somewhere along the way, through the “miracle of tel- hearts with peace and joy. Tonight, the love of God has He is born in utter poverty in order to win our hearts by evision” (how many times have you heard that?), I been revealed to us; it is Jesus. In Jesus, the Most High the wealth of love.” “attended” Christmas Eve Mass (formerly known as made himself tiny, so that we might love him.” Pope Francis struck a nerve when he mentioned God’s Midnight Mass) coming from St. Peter’s Basilica in the His profundity continued with; “Why does St. Paul patience. I pray daily for my own and I also tack on perse- Vatican in Rome, Italy, describe the coming of God into our world as ‘grace?’ To verance, for the road surely gets “weary” from time to some 4,799 miles away. tell us that it is utterly free. Whereas on earth everything time. You no doubt observed recently that the Holy ALONG THE WAY That’s the miracle part. seems to be about giving in order to get — God comes Father’s patience was worn thin when, while conducting Among dignitaries, celebri- down freely. His love is non-negotiable: we did nothing to a meet-and-greet with a barricaded audience on New ties, Cardinals and diplo- deserve it and we will never be able to repay it.” Year’s Day, a well-meaning pilgrim and admirer, it turned mats in attendance, I had a I grabbed hold there and held tight. out, grabbed his hand, held tight, and pulled him toward front row seat. Okay, so Gently, Pope Francis shared his conviction that “the her, so violently that he lost his balance, dislodged him- what made this occasion so grace of God has appeared” and went on to note that self from her grip with a strong slap on her hand and special? “tonight we realize that, when we failed to measure up, moved away quickly. “Thank God,” I thought when I saw In two words — Pope God became small for our sake; while we were going him breakaway safely for he surely could have been seri- Francis. about our own business, he came into our midst. ously injured, or worse, in a fall. He lost no time in pin- Christmas reminds us that God continues to love us all, When, in the aftermath of the incident, he apologized pointing the essential even the worst of us. to her and cited his brief lack of patience and under- meaning of Christmas To me, to you, to each of us, he says today: ‘I love you standing, it struck my heart and impressed me, especially revealed to us when he and I will always love you, for you are precious in my in light of his Christmas homily, that he is quite human Ray Smith noted in the first reading eyes.’” and a man of so much more than just words. So be it and (Is 9:1), “Those who dwelt Now latch on with me here when he continues with thank God for that, in my opinion. in a land of deep darkness, on them has light shined.” “God does not love you because you think and act the Internet news recently reported a delightful moment He then observed that the prophesy we heard in the right way. He loves you, plain and simple. His love is and our Holy Father’s sense of humor and renewed first reading was fulfilled in the Gospel: “As shepherds unconditional; it does not depend on you. You may have patience at a recent Wednesday audience when a diminu- kept watch over their flocks by night, the glory of the mistaken ideas, you may have made a complete mess of tive nun requested a Papal kiss on her cheek. “I’ll give Lord shone around them.” (Luke 2:9). things, but the Lord continues to love you. How often do you a kiss, but don’t bite,” he said. He then revealed the meaning of the light that shone we think that God is good if we are good and punishes us Bless you, Pope Francis, and please remain “human” in the darkness, citing St. Paul: “The grace of God has if we are bad? Yet that is not how He is. For all our sins, in the spirit of Christmas. appeared,” the grace of God “bringing salvation to all” he continues to love us. His love does not change. It is not Ray Smith is a commissioned Lay Pastoral Minister for (Tit 2:11) has shone on our world this night. fickle — it is faithful. It is patient. This is the gift we find the Diocese of Covington. The Holy Father then wondered, “What is this grace?” at Christmas. We discover to our amazement that the He then confided that it is “divine love, the love that Lord is absolute gratuity, absolute tender love. His glory changes lives, renews history, liberates from evil, fills does not overwhelm us; his presence does not terrify us.

(UPS-403-650) Published by the Roman Catholic Diocese of Covington, Ky.; 44 issues a year Bishop Roger J. Foys...... Publisher VOL. 90 NO. 3 (weekly except from June 1 to mid-August, when published every other week; not Rev. Ronald M. Ketteler ...... Episcopal Liaison MESSENGER published the week after Easter and two weeks at Christmas/New Year’s). Subscription rate: Laura Keener ...... Editor, General Manager $19 per year; $40 foreign. Periodical Postage paid at Covington, KY 41012 and additional Allegra Thatcher ...... Assistant Editor Official newspaper of the Diocese of Covington mailing office Cincinnati, Ohio 45203. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to MESSENGER, Monica Yeamans...... Editorial Assistant 1125 Madison Ave., Covington, KY 41011-3115. Kim Holocher...... Advertising Manager 1125 Madison Ave. • Covington, Ky. 41011-3115 Advertising deadline: Wednesday noon, 9 days prior to publication date. Laura Gillespie...... Production Coordinator/Designer Telephone: (859) 392-1500 E-mail: [email protected] Editorial deadline: Friday noon, 7 days prior to date. www.covdio.org Subscriptions, address changes: Contact Circulation Dept. at above address. Messenger January 24, 2020 5 COMMENTARY Ordinary timeis How can businessesbemore pro-life? truly extraordinary Create family-friendly workplaces The readings for the third Sunday in Ordinary On Jan. 2, over 200 members of Congress called on the — and not just in the Catholic Church. According to the Time — Cycle “A” are: Isaiah 8:23-9:3; I Corinthians Supreme Court to reconsider and, “if appropriate,” to U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, only 16 percent of work- 1:10-13, 17; and Matthew 4:12-23. overrule Roe v. Wade when the justices decide this spring ers in the private sector have access to paid leave. We have recently begun celebrating in our liturgical the fate of a Louisiana law There are steps short of fully funded family leave — year those many Sundays that requires abortion which may be out of reach for many cash-strapped dioce- representing what is EIGHTH DAY GUEST providers to have admit- ses and nonprofits — that employers can take to ensure unflatteringly called ting privileges at nearby that parents do not have to choose between supporting “Ordinary Time.” My sug- hospitals. their families financially and spending time with infants gestion would be that for The call to reverse the landmark decision that legal- and young children. Christians, even ordinary ized abortion nationwide will be echoed later in January All workplaces can provide nursing mothers with paid time is somewhat “extra- by the thousands of students, religious leaders and breaks for breast-feeding or lactation rooms. Granting ordinary.” Nevertheless, I activists attending the 47th annual March for Life in more flexible schedules or the option to work remotely would like to depart for a Washington. With the appointment of two pro-life jus- allows parents to spend more time with children during moment from my usual tices to the Supreme Court by President Donald Trump, the essential years of early development and can cut reflection on the texts and members of the pro-life movement are hopeful that the down on child care costs. make a few general long-awaited reversal or a significant weakening of Roe is Executives and managers also should create a work- remarks about the choice close at hand. We share that hope. place culture that does not penalize or stigmatize those of readings for “Ordinary But as the editors of this review wrote one year ago: who choose to take advantage of the benefits available to Time.” “The pro-life movement’s work becomes more complicat- parents. This is especially important for men — 76 per- Father Daniel Vogelpohl As its name suggests, ed, not less so, as the prospect of meaningful legal protec- cent of whom return to work after one week or less fol- “Ordinary Time” repre- tions for unborn children dawns.” lowing a birth or adoption, according to a 2014 study. sents those parts of the year when the Church is not Because abortion will likely remain legal in many if If Roe v. Wade is reversed, it will remain only a partial actively engaged in remembering some particular aspect not most states regardless of where the court comes victory as long as people feel they have to choose between of or event in salvation history as we do during Advent, down on Roe, building a culture that helps mothers and keeping their baby and supporting their family. But moth- Christmas Time, Lent, Easter Time, and so on. We now fathers to welcome children remains imperative. Support ers and fathers should be able to feel secure in their deci- celebrate the events of Christ’s everyday life and our daily for working parents is an essential part of that culture sion to bring a child into the world without having to living of our Christian lives. and Catholic organizations and business leaders should depend on the rulings of justices or the votes of politi- During Ordinary Time in 2020 our Gospel reading will be at the forefront of efforts to create more family-friend- cians. Pro-life employers, in both the Church and the pri- always be from Matthew. (Last year it was from Luke, next ly workplaces. vate sector, do not need to wait for a government mandate year it will be from Mark. We read from John every year The Archdiocese of Chicago has been a leader in this to begin building pro-family workplaces. during the Easter season.) We begin the reading of regard. In 2016, it became the first U.S. diocese to offer 12 This unsigned editorial appeared online Jan. 10 on the Matthew this Sunday with the account of the beginning of weeks of paid parental leave to its employees. In March website of America magazine, a weekly Jesuit publication. Jesus’ ministry. During these Sundays of Ordinary time 2019, the Diocese of Burlington, Vermont, also began pro- It has been provided by Catholic News Service. The views we will move slowly through Matthew, catching all the sig- viding 12 weeks of paid leave to employees after a birth or positions presented in this or any guest editorial are nificant highlights of Jesus’ ministry and preaching. We or adoption. Bishop Christopher J. Coyne described his those of the individual publication and do not necessarily begin today with chapter 4; we will end in November with decision to offer parental leave as “one way we can help represent the views of Catholic News Service or of the U.S. chapter 25. to build a culture of life.” But these dioceses are outliers Conference of Catholic Bishops. During Ordinary Time the first reading is chosen from the Old Testament. It will generally have the same theme as the Gospel reading; that is, the first reading and Gospel are tied together thematically. For example, today’s Gospel Eventof the decade reading quotes directly from the first reading which is From a Catholic perspective, few if any dates were As Pope Benedict made history by leaving, Pope taken from the book of the prophet Isaiah: “The people more significant during the soon-to-close decade than Francis made it by arriving as the first non-European who walked in darkness have seen a great light; upon Feb. 11, 2013. pope in modern times, the first from the Americas, the those who dwelt in the land of gloom a light has shone.” On that day Pope Benedict XVI, citing his age and first called Pope Francis and the first Jesuit. The second reading will always be from a New declining health, broke an 800-year tradition of popes Unlike every other pope over the previous century, Testament writing other than a Gospel — usually one of holding onto office until Pope Francis had never even studied or worked in Rome. Paul’s letters. It is not chosen to fit thematically with the GUEST death with the stunning A true outsider and reformer, Pope Francis was passed other readings. Instead, this reading is proclaimed simply announcement of his over in the 2005 papal conclave and only got a second so that, over the course of three years, all the major writ- retirement. It has our vote chance because Pope Benedict decided the pope could ings of the New Testament will be heard in our churches. as the defining church moment of the past 10 years. indeed retire. This second reading is a continuous reading. That A consistent theme throughout Pope Benedict’s eight- In personality and style, the gregarious Argentinian means, for example, that this week we will begin reading year papacy was the connection between faith and arrived as a stark contrast to his German predecessor. Paul’s First Letter to the Corinthians. We will continue courage. An essential component of faith, he taught, is But although different in many ways, Pope Francis has reading a portion of it each week until we have finished it. courage. Christians need courage to uphold truth and mirrored Pope Benedict’s high regard for courage or, as In addition to First Corinthians, we will hear in this year defend Catholic values in a secular age, to be heard in the Pope Francis succinctly puts it: “a cowardly Catholic of Ordinary Time: Romans, Philippians and First public square and, ultimately, courage to trust in God’s doesn’t make much sense.” Thessalonians. will. Pope Benedict’s resignation, as he neared his 86th Hidden behind the scenes of today’s readings is the And in Pope Benedict’s case that meant the courage to birthday, gave us a new way to regard the papacy. He once message that ordinary time, ordinary events, and ordinary stand aside and let a man with more vigor assume the said that should a pope become physically, psychological- people can be truly extraordinary. Today’s Gospel gives us crucial work of leading the Church in difficult times. The ly or spiritually unable to perform his duties, he had a a very brief summary of Jesus’ preaching (“Reform your papacy, he said, is not about the person who wears the moral duty to retire rather than cling to the title and lives! The kingdom of heaven is at hand.”). The bulk of ring of St. Peter but about the greater mission to make rewards of office. To step down was a bold decision and, the Gospel, however, is taken up with the account of Jesus disciples of all nations. years from now, will form a central component of Pope choosing two very ordinary sets of brothers as his apos- So, if it takes a strong spine to accept the mantle of Benedict’s legacy. tles. Two of the four — Peter and James — would later pope, perhaps it takes an even a stronger one to announce Church history may well record it as the most signifi- emerge as pillars of the Church. to the world, after much prayerful reflection, you are no cant single event of the decade, and maybe the most Paul’s letter to the Corinthians gives us another longer up to the job. courageous. glimpse of life as we ordinarily experience. Within every It’s unlikely, however, that even Pope Benedict foresaw This unsigned editorial titled appeared online Dec. 26 on family there always seems to be rivalry among the chil- the degree of fortitude required from all Catholics to the website of the Catholic Register, the Toronto-based dren. The family of the Church appears to be no excep- endure what became a decade so consistently darkened national Catholic Canadian newspaper and has been pro- tion. All of us could stand to take the Apostle’s words to by scandal. Faith and courage, as Pope Benedict taught, vided by Catholic News Service. The views or positions pre- heart: “I beg you, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, to are indeed inextricably linked and each faced a stern test sented in this or any guest editorial are those of the individ- agree in what you say. Let there be no factions; rather, be over the past 10 years. ual publication and do not necessarily represent the views united in mind and judgment.” The person most immediately affected by Pope of Catholic News Service or of the U.S. Conference of The 34 weeks of Ordinary Time reminds us that it is in Benedict’s bold resignation was Pope Francis. Catholic Bishops. the ordinary events and people of our daily lives that we experience and find the salvation of our God. Father Daniel Vogelpohl is pastor of Blessed Sacrament Parish, Ft. Mitchell. 6 January 24, 2020 Messenger

once you knew?” She taught her song Sistersof Divine Providence focusoncare for creation “Touch the Earth” and inspired the By Sister Kay Kramer, CDP ing the encyclical. To aid in their study, they were joined at Sisters to continue their efforts to Each year during the Christmas holidays, the Sisters of their Christmas assembly by Msgr. William Cleves — long- care for the earth — small though as it may seem — trust- Divine Providence gather at the Province Center in time friend of the Sisters, philosopher, and scholar; and by ing that “God has given us the power to create the world Melbourne, Ky. — coming from near and far — to pray, cel- Sister Kathy Sherman, CSJ , of Lagrange, Illinois — litur- anew.” ebrate, share, and reflect together on a topic of importance gical musician and composer. Several associate members The day gave the Sisters and Associates renewed enthu- and relevance. This year, the topic was “Laudato Si,” Pope joined the sisters in their reflection. siasm for their continued study of “Laudato Si” and Francis’s 2015 encyclical letter on care for our common Msgr. Cleves began with a philosophical overview of growth in their understanding of the need for all peoples home. “Laudato Si” and encouraged the Sisters to read it against to care for God’s creation. At the international meeting held at the motherhouse the backdrop of “Gaudium et Spes,” the “Pastoral in France in August 2018, the Congregation included care Constitution on the Church in the Modern World,” one of for the most vulnerable in humanity and creation as a the four constitutions to come out of the Second Vatican Council. Doing so, Msgr. Pope Francis’s prayer for the earth, included in the Cleves stated, leads us to encyclical, is an inspiration and challenge: ask “why?” This question leads us deeper into God our creator, in whose A Prayer for Our Earth image and likeness we are All-powerful God, you are present in the whole universe made. Msgr. Cleves contin- and in the smallest of your creatures. ued with a summary of each chapter of the You embrace with your tenderness all that exists. encyclical, and challenged Pour out upon us the power of your love, the Sisters to remember, as Joseph Spalding stated, that we may protect life and beauty. “We did not inherit the Fill us with peace, that we may live earth from our parents, we as brothers and sisters, harming no one. (above left) Sisters and Associates of the Congregation of Divine Providence gathered over borrowed it from our chil- the Christmas holidays for its annual day of reflection. This year Msgr. William Cleves dren.” O God of the poor, (above right) led the discussion on Pope Francis’s encyclical “Laudato Si,” (“On Care For Sister Kathy, with song, help us to rescue the abandoned and forgotten of this earth, Our Common Home”). reflections and small- group sharing, encour- so precious in your eyes. focus for the next several years. The U.S. province then aged the Sisters to think about their place in this beautiful Bring healing to our lives, made the decision to study “Laudato Si” individually and world God has created. In discussing the reality of climate communally and have begun a two-year process of study- change, she asked them to think about “What did you do that we may protect the world and not prey on it, that we may sow beauty, not pollution and destruction. Touch the hearts of those who look only for gain at the expense of the poor and the earth. Teach us to discover the worth of each thing, to be filled with awe and contemplation, to recognize that we are profoundly united with every creature as we journey towards your infinite light. We thank you for being with us each day. Encourage us, we pray, in our struggle for justice, love and peace. Messenger January 24, 2020 7

Campaign pushes planstomake affordable housinganational priority Dennis Sadowski realize the decades of public policy that been intentionally vent evictions and ease their consequences. Funding would Catholic News Service segregating communities.” be available to track evictions and analyze landlord-tenant WASHINGTON — For years, Dominican Sister Donna The result, she said, is that cities in particular are strug- laws. Markham, president and CEO of Catholic Charities USA, has gling to address housing challenges without federal assis- Other provisions include a program to fund state and local said it’s a scandal that millions of American families are tance. governments, expand the use of landlord-tenant community struggling to find a stable place to live. Organizations such as the Children’s Defense Fund, courts and increase the number of social workers to advise She knows how housing costs are soaring, forcing families National Association of Social Workers, National Education tenants with the goal of avoiding the high cost of eviction for and individuals to cut back on other neces- Association, and the Food Research & both landlords and renters. sities — food, health care, clothing, school Action Center have joined the Opportunity The bill also would establish an Emergency Assistance needs and even utilities — so they can keep Starts at Home campaign, reflecting a Fund to provide short-term financial assistance and housing a roof over their head. widening of the collaborative effort needed stability-related services to people facing eviction. Finally, it The struggle continues daily in rural, to advance an affordable housing agenda. expresses support for increasing funding for the Legal suburban and urban communities across Diane Yentel, president and CEO of the Services Corp., which provides legal service to low-income the country, Sister Markham said during a National Low Income Housing Coalition, people. program planned by the Opportunity Starts told the press club audience the country The Family Stability and Opportunity Vouchers Act, at Home campaign at the National Press has a shortage of 7 million units of afford- introduced by Sen. Chris Van Hollen, D-Maryland, and Sen. Club Jan. 16. able housing, which translates to 37 homes Todd Young, R-Indiana, would provide 500,000 housing vouch- “We need to acknowledge sadly that being available for every 100 households in ers to families with children young than 6. The campaign said we’ve not done all that we could to meet the need. the bill would help families move from neighborhoods with basic moral test of attending to the needs of Illustrating the high cost of housing is high poverty rates and low-performing schools while parents poor people and their children to live safely the fact that 8 million of the lowest income would have access to better jobs and community resources. and securely in a home and have a pathway people pay 50% or more of their income for Such federal action will support the work already being out of extreme poverty,” Sister Markham rent, Yentel added. done at the local level, including Catholic Charities USA’s said as one of program’s four panelists. Such factors are beginning to resonate Healthy Housing Initiative, a collaborative effort in five cities “We’ve got a crisis on our hands and with the wider public. among local diocesan agencies, hospitals, housing developers what are we doing about it?” Markham CNS photo/courtesy of Catholic Charities of Oregon Yentel shared the results of a recent and funders. said. Catholic Charities of Oregon in survey that found 80% of respondents say- The initiative places homeless people into stable housing Catholic Charities USA is one of 20 Portland developed Kenton Women’s ing Congress and the White House should and provides essential supportive services. The goal is to organizations that are part of the campaign Village to address the city’s shortage “take major action” to make housing more reduce hospital readmissions while ensuring that basic in a nationwide push to call attention to the of affordable housing. affordable for low-income households. human needs are met. massive shortfall of affordable housing. Perhaps not totally in response to those Sister Markham said the program has saved $18 million in The coalition is calling on the federal government to set policy findings, two bipartisan bills were introduced in Congress in hospital costs while placing 350 people into affordable hous- priorities and incentivize and coordinate state and local December in an attempt to address the nation’s affordable ing with necessary support services. efforts to address the crisis. housing gap. One would address evictions and the other Still, Yentel said, the affordable housing gap cannot be The work largely focuses on the idea that stabilizing the would boost the number of housing vouchers available to low- addressed by Church and nonprofit agencies alone. lives of people is key to economic opportunity, good health income families with children. “We can choose to solve and end housing poverty in our and good performance in school by children without the Opportunity Starts at Home backs both bills, said Mike country,” she said. “We know what to do and certainly we threat of homelessness looming. Kaprowski, the campaign’s national director. have the resource in the country. We only lack the political Dr. Megan Sandel, principal investigator with Children’s The Eviction Crisis Act, introduced by Sen. Michael will to solve the housing crisis.” Health Watch and co-director of the Grow Clinic at Boston Bennet, D-Colorado, and Sen. Rob Portman, R-Ohio, addresses Medical Center, told the audience that data gathered from homelessness on several fronts. Evictions have become a rou- 70,000 families during the last two decades in Baltimore, tine way for landlords to remove people from a property even Boston, Minneapolis, Philadelphia and Little Rock, Arkansas, when rents are paid in full and on time. show that stable housing can make a difference in virtually The bill calls for developing a national database to track every aspect of people’s lives. evictions and establishing an advisory committee on eviction “What our research said over and over is that a stable, research that would recommend policies and practices to pre- decent, affordable home is a prescription for good health,” Sandel explained. “What we know is that it’s just not about being homeless. It’s about not having to move frequently and “Specializing in residential and commercial plumbing repair parts” not falling behind on rent. That is really where we’re going to Specialized Plumbing Parts Supply Inc. see the biggest health impact over a lifetime.” Race plays a major factor in household stability, said Irma Esparza Diggs, senior executive and director, federal advoca- 921 Dudley Road cy with the National League of Cities. African American and Edgewood, KY 41017 Hispanic households as well as those headed by women are (859) 341-6666 disproportionately affected by the lack of safe affordable housing, she explained. We now stock a complete line of home “The reality is that we are living with the consequences of historic and often times intentional discriminatory housing health aides that include elevated toilet policies, like redlining and racial isolation,” Diggs said. seats, grab bars and personal showers. “Quite frankly if you are a student of how we got here, you

The Cincinnati Club, The Gardens, The Grand, The Pinnacle Preferred Caterer at Drees Pavilion Church Decorators • Faux Finishes Partner Venues Cincinnati Music Hall, Contemporary Arts Center, Industrial Coatings • Commercial Devou Event Center, Fort Thomas Armory, 1564 Water Street, Covington KY 41014 Freedom Center, The New Riff Distillery, Rhinegiest Brewery, The Center at Fountain Square, Prickel Barn (859) 431-4700 www.rizzobrothers.com 8 January 24, 2020 Messenger PEOPLE AND EVENTS

Newsworthy Happy Birthday to Father Richard Bolte, pastor, St. Timothy Parish, Union, Jan. 28; Father Leo Schmidt, retired, Jan. 30 and Father John Sterling, pastor, St. Barbara Parish, Erlanger, Jan. 31. Scholarships and awards Villa Madonna Academy High School, Villa Hills, scholarship recipients: VMA alumni scholarship — Kaylee Ryan; academic scholarships — Adam Brandstetter, Dominic Brockman, Brandon Campling, Adam Hassoun, Adam Kolar, Charlotte Litmer, Jonah Martin, Madeline Mitchell, Henry Thole and Thomas Wenning. Three Villa Madonna Academy students were recognized in the regional Scholastic Art and Writing Awards. The competition is administered by the Art Academy of Cincinnati. Emily Richardson won two Gold Keys: one for her novel, “Usher” and one for her personal essay and memoir, “My Favorite Place on Sharing the good news of Catholic schools Earth.” Her essay is also nominated for an American Several St. Henry Catholic School eighth grade students, along with their principal, Dennis Wolff, spoke at all the Masses Voices award and Gold Key works will advance to at St. Barbara Church. The students shared how their Catholic education has made them more connected to God and to compete for the national Scholastic Art and Writing each other, confident in all their work and contributing through service to others while at St. Henry. Awards; Liam Collins, Silver Medal for his critical essay “Reboot!” a one-evening regional event with national Central Catholic FAN Club. Entry fee is $160 and teams “The Slavery Sewn into Your Socks.” Catholic speaker, Chris Stefanik, speaker, author, TV host; may have up to 8 members. Register by e-mailing Charles Grace Rowland, student, St. Therese School, NKU Student Union, Jan. 28, 7–9:30 p.m. Tickets $25, Marks, [email protected]. Southgate, has been selected to participant in the 2020 Call 620–1813 or RealLifeCatholic.com/reboot. Kentucky Children’s Chorus, which in February will 21st annual “Jack & Pat McGarr Memorial Euchre perform in Louisville. “Catholic Schools Night,” Jan. 30, 5 p.m.–7 p.m., hosted Tournament,” Feb. 1, Bishop Brossart High School, by Thomas More University in the Mary, Seat of Wisdom Hegenauer Hall. $25 entry fee, doors open at 5:30 p.m. Chapel, Crestview Hills, an evening for students who Register online at McGarrEuchre.givesmart.com. Contact attend a Catholic high school in the Diocese of Covington (513) 460-6599 or e-mail [email protected]. The weekly TV Mass from the Cathedral Basilica of the or Archdiocese of Cincinnati. Students at any stage of Assumption will be broadcast on Sunday, 5–6 p.m. on station their high school career are invited to enjoy light refresh- “Welcome Home” reception and donor appreciation, Feb. Me TV WLWT, on channels: over the air 5-2; Spectrum 188 in ments, a talk by our campus minister, and a tour. Sign up 1, Sisters of Notre Dame of Covington. Sisters Anita Kentucky and Cincinnati Bell 23 or 291. at www.thomasmore.edu/admissions or call 344-3590. Marie Stacy and Mary Judith Averbeck return from the Have something to list in “People and Events”? The dead- Uganda Mission. Reception 6–7 p.m., presentation at 7 line for event notices is nine days prior to the desired publi- Men’s and women’s restoration retreats for Cursillo p.m. RSVP by Jan. 24 to [email protected] or 392-8229. cation date. E-mail [email protected] no later than the alumni. Father Robert Rottgers, Deacon Hudson Henry and Wednesday before the week you would like the information Deacon Jim Fortner will lead. St. Anne Retreat Center, St. Vincent de Paul Northern Kentucky is hosting to appear. Melbourne. Men’s Retreat weekend: Jan. 31, 5:30 p.m. to Feb. “Creative Compassion: A Night of Art for our 2, noon. Women’s Retreat weekend: Feb. 7, 5:30 p.m. to Feb. 9, Neighbors in Need” Feb. 6 at New Riff Distillery, Planning an event featuring a speaker or minister from noon. Contact Blaine Comfort 578-0133. Cost is $155. Newport, 6–9 p.m. Local art students have created outside your parish? In the Diocese of Covington, before works of art from thrift store finds that will be auc- contracting the services of a priest or deacon, man or “Beautifully You,” Feb. 1, 10 a.m.–1 p.m., St. Thomas, Ft. tioned off. Proceeds benefit SVdP NKY. Food and woman religious, or lay person, a request for verification in Thomas. Mothers and daughters, 13 and older, are invited drinks will be served throughout the night. Purchase good standing must be submitted to the Chancery office no to discover what Pope St. John Paul referred to as the tickets at: www.svdpnky.org. Call 446-7727. later than four weeks before the desired date of service. “Feminine Genius.” Come for brunch, conversation and Screening applications and instructions can be found at presentations with special guests Caitlin Dwyer, professor NKY Family Promise shelter program is having its 5th www.covdio.org/chancery/. of Theology, Thomas More University and Rita Johnson, annual “Home is Where the Heart Is” bourbon and wine NaPro instructor. $10 donation. E-mail Pam at mam- tasting, Feb. 7, 6:30 p.m., St. Elizabeth Training and March for Life NKY, Jan. 24, 5 p.m. Opening prayer at [email protected] Education Center, Erlanger. Cost $65. Tickets Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish, Burlington. Walk a http://www.nkyfamilypromise.org, in the memo/comments mile and return to IHM by 7 p.m. for Holy Hour of Prayer “Trivia Night,” Feb. 1, 7 p.m. Newport Central Catholic section write: “Heart Tickets” Call 360-0905. and Penance for Life. High School Blackbox Theatre, sponsored by the Newport

Studying God’s universe Lady Crusader Invitational St. Agnes School alumnus Kevin Wagner, graduate student at Arizona State studying For the 27th year, St. Henry Catholic School, Elsmere, hosted the Lady Crusader Invitational exoplanets, visited the fourth graders of St. Agnes School, Ft. Wright, to help them basketball tournament. With brackets of third through eighth grades, it’s a great way to celebrate “Galaxy Afternoon.” The students were culminating their studies of the showcase what the teams have accomplished throughout the season. At school, the students solar system. They enjoyed extending their knowledge of the galaxy by asking Kevin dressed in their Crusader best and a pep rally was held for all the St. Henry teams. questions about planets outside the solar system and black holes. Messenger January 24, 2020 9 PEOPLE AND EVENTS

Foolish food and fun St. Agnes School, Ft. Wright, has a favorite library book: drinks and dancing. Tickets $20, register online. Bingo every Friday, St. Mary’s undercroft, Alexandria. “What’s New Cupcake?” This book is full of fun and Jitney games, 7 p.m.; regular games, 8 p.m. creative baking ideas for cakes and cupcakes. This Worldwide Marriage Encounter, Feb. 14-16, Our Lady of talented third-grader made the “April Fools Day” cupcake the Holy Spirit Center, Cincinnati. Contact Andy and Volunteer medical interpreters are needed to help creation (fries and ketchup) and gave it to the school Jeanne Folfas at (937) 866-5196 or jeannemarie42@hot- Spanish speakers with specialist appointments. Rose librarian. mail.com. Garden Center for Hope and Healing, 261-0323. Must be VIR- TUS-compliant and able to meet patients at various locations. Young Men’s Silent Retreat, Feb. 7–9, Our Lady of 9th annual Catholic Men’s Conference of Western the Holy Spirit Retreat Center, Norwood. Cost is $110, Kentucky, Feb. 15, RiverPark Center, Owensboro. What it Help Parish Kitchen, a ministry of Catholic Charities – covers meals and accommodation. Contact Vicki Jung, means to be a Catholic man in a secular world. Tickets Diocese of Covington, provide warmth for the homeless this (513) 260-2373, or register online. Attend Ignatian available online. winter. Donate new sleeping bags or new twin blankets Spiritual Exercises, Mass and adoration with other at either: Parish Kitchen, 141 W. Pike St., Covington, young men. There will be a Holy Hour on the third Thursday of every Monday–Friday, 8–11 a.m. or Catholic Charities, 3629 Church month, at the Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption, St., Latonia, Monday–Friday, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Contact 581-7745 “Denim & Diamonds,” Feb. 8, 7–11:30 p.m., hosted by Covington, 3–4 p.m., to pray for victims of sexual abuse by or [email protected]. Holy Cross High School at Receptions Banquet Hall, clergy and to pray for the Church. All priests of the diocese Erlanger. Tickets are $40 per person; $75 per couple. Call will be in attendance; the lay faithful are invited to join. The St. Charles Resource Center for the Aging is a service to 431-1335 or go to hchscov.com. Blessed Sacrament will be exposed, concluding with the inform, educate and empower seniors and their families Chaplet of Divine Mercy and benediction. The sacrament of who are in need of support services. The consultation serv- Craft Show, Feb. 8, 10 a.m.–3 p.m., St. Paul Parish, reconciliation will be available during the Holy Hour. The ice is free and aimed to educate seniors and their families Florence. Shopping, food truck, raffles. $2 admission. next Holy Hour will be held Thursday, Feb. 20. about the resources offered in the community and other aging issues. Contact Margie Volpenhein at 331-3224, ext. “Art Revealing God” women’s retreat, Feb. 12, 9–11:30 E6 Catholic Men’s Conference, Feb. 22, St. Leon, 1440. a.m., St. Pius Parish, Edgewood. Evening session Feb. 12, Indiana. Featuring speakers Dr. Scott Hahn, Father Don 6:30–9 p.m., Our Lady of the Holy Spirit Center, Calloway and Doug Barry, with adoration, confession and A faith-based support group, New Beginnings, provides Cincinnati. For information visit Holy Mass. Registration online. separated and divorced individuals the opportunity for heal- https://rcohiovalley.org/monthly-retreat. ing and growth. Participants will find new understanding of NKU Catholic Newman Center Women’s Group, 2–4 themselves and their relationships and gain courage to dis- 6th and 7th Grade Scavenger Hunt, Feb. 14, 3:30 – 5 p.m., p.m., workshop and discussion, Feb. 23, March 29, Apr. cover new life. Session location TBD. Registration required, Notre Dame Academy. An afternoon of games, food and 26. E-mail [email protected] to RSVP. call 392-1500, ext. 1592. The next eight-week session is: more. Registration form online at www.ndapandas.org. Thursdays, March 12 – April 30. For more information call 292-1829. Spaghetti dinner and fine arts festival, Feb. 23, 4–6:30 p.m., Covington Catholic High School. Sponsored by the Project Rachel, God’s greatest desire is to forgive. Come “Decades of ‘I do,’” Feb. 14, 6:30 p.m., Blessed Parents Club, featuring a performance by the award win- back to God who is love and mercy. Project Rachel hotline, Sacrament Parish. Centennial marriage celebration fea- ning CCH Chamber Choir and the Covington Catholic (859) 392-1547 or e-mail [email protected]. All calls turing Mass, marriage blessing, heavy hors d’oeuvres, and Notre Dame Academy Band. CCH student artwork and e-mails are confidential. will be exhibited as well. PrimeWise at St. Elizabeth Healthcare offers adults, age 50 and over, a free network of valuable services especially suit- Ash Wednesday — day of recollection, Feb. 26, 9 a.m.–2 ed to their needs and interests. It’s not a club and there are p.m., sponsored by the Sisters of Notre Dame at the no membership dues or meetings, just lots of benefits, infor- Sisters of Notre Dame Provincial House. Cost $20 mation, programs and special discounts. PrimeWise can pro- includes lunch. Speaker is Notre Dame Sister Mary vide information on topics like advance directives and living Kathleen Glavich from Chardon, Ohio. Call Sister Margie wills, Medicare and many health-related concerns. Call 301- Schnelle 392-8229 or e-mail [email protected]. 5999 or e-mail [email protected]. Women’s Retreat, Feb. 28 – March 1, St. Anne Retreat For couples in troubled marriages, Retrouvaille is a pro- Center, a Lenten Retreat on the meaning of the cross in gram of healing and renewal consisting of one weekend our lives. Cost is $150, including lodging and meals. and six follow-up sessions over the course of three months. Contact: www.cincyretrouvaille.org or (513) 456-5413. Fish Fry, St. Agnes Parish, Ft. Wright, in Murphy Hall. Feb 28, March 6, 13 and 20. Free support group, Parents of Addicted Loved Ones (PAL), meets every Wednesday, 6:30 p.m.–8 p.m., at Catholic “More Than One Way To Pray,” Sisters of Notre Dame Charities, Latonia. Group provides continuing education Women’s Weekend Retreats, March 6-8 and April 3-5. and support, at no charge, for parents with a son, daughter Limited reservations. Call 392-8229. or spouse suffering from addiction to alcohol or drugs. No cost. Just come. Information, 581-8974 or www.covington- “Telling on Ourselves; Stories about Wells, Pools and charities.org. End the trend Tombs (The Gospels of the Last Three Sundays of Villa Madonna Academy High School, Villa Hills, Lent),” March 14, 9:30 a.m., sponsored by the Benedictine The Sts. Teresa of Calcutta and Faustina Guild of the welcomed Dillon Lay of the University of Kentucky’s Sisters of St. Walburg. $20 fee includes snacks and mate- Catholic Medical Association, Diocese of Covington, #iCANendthetrend program. It’s designed to help students rials. Participants must pre-register at monthly meeting is held the 4th Thursday at Divine Mercy make healthy decisions by educating them on the dangers [email protected] or 331-6771. No walk-ins. Parish, Bellevue, beginning with Mass, 5:30 p.m.; dinner and and the costs of e-cigarette products and on the ways the meeting follow. Visit www.cathmed.org. tobacco industry is targeting youth. 10 January 24, 2020 Messenger We Choose Families matter Meg Wittman husband and wife that did not exist before. As the Venerable Fulton Messenger Contributor Sheen said, “Children are almost like beads in a rosary, binding together Life Perhaps the most popular slogan of the pro-life movement is the love of a husband and a wife.” “building a culture of life.” However, the goal of a pro-life culture will In the true and rightly ordered nature of marriage, the foundation not be reached until the root of the problem in our society is under- is love, not sex. Couples should be open to the children God sends stood. them because every child brings glory to God and further unites the Pro-Life Abortion is not actually the root. Rather, it is a symptom of some- family. Again, Venerable Fulton Sheen tells us that children not only thing harder to pinpoint — the destructive impact of multiple attacks bring about motherhood and fatherhood but also reveal even deeper on the family unit. Transgressions such as the radical feminist move- and more beautiful mysteries, as parents embrace their obligations to Office ment, casual divorce, comprehensive sex education, artificial contra- raise the children God gives them. Families then naturally build up of the Diocese of Covington ception, abortion, pornography, same-sex weddings, transgenderism moral societies and cultures. and the like are all aimed at annihilating the structure and purpose of God sends children to families in different ways and at different Mission Statement the family. times, but he desires that all families be open to his plans for them. Not The Pro-Life Office of the Roman Catholic • Although the early feminist movement was pro-life, the move- every family is biologically created; some are blessed by other circum- Diocese of Covington, guided by our bishop, ment today is highly pro-death. It prefers stances, yet all families manifest divine love. promotes the sanctity and legal protection of careers, money, travel, time, convenience and I recently had the great pleasure of wit- human life from conception to natural death sexual “liberation” over the bearing and rear- nessing an adoption, in which a loving mother through prayer, pastoral care, public policy ing of children within marriage. and father to five biological children adopted and education. • In the late 1960s, states began legalizing two siblings after fostering them for over a no-fault divorce, and studies now show that year. As I stood in the courtroom I found anywhere from 40 percent to 50 percent of myself surrounded by many families and marriages in the United States end in divorce. dozens of children, many of whom had been Furthermore, fewer people are getting mar- touched by adoption themselves. After the *If there were ried. Some 39 percent of all babies born today adoptive parents spoke, the judge asked if in the United States are born to single moth- anyone else wished to speak on behalf of one million families praying ers. them. Family members and friends quickly • The Sexuality Information and Education rose to their feet to testify to the generous love Council of the United States, Planned that this man and woman would show these the rosary every day, Parenthood and their counterparts have two precious children. hijacked sex education. They have taken it out By the time all testimonies were complete, the entire world would be saved.+ of the hands of parents and turned it into a there was not a dry eye in the room. It was pornographic curriculum. then that I realized the courtroom was full of • Abortion and contraception work — Pope St. Pius X an entire community of families living out the together to give men free rein to be promiscu- “culture of life.” ous and to enable women to turn a most It is true that we must continue to pass sacred gift from God into a commodity. Meg Wittman pro-life laws and demand that justice be deliv- Contraception always leads to more abortion, ered by our courts. In the year 2019 alone, 17 and abortion destroys the family from the inside out — quite literally. states passed pro-life laws. These efforts must maintain momentum • Pornography steals the souls of men and women alike. Fifteen and are an especially important consideration in an election year. states have even declared it to be a major health crisis, citing ties to sex It is also true that we must find ways to help our fellow citizens trafficking, violence against women and child abuse. choose life. This means fostering children ourselves or supporting • The re-definition of marriage in our country has thwarted God’s those who do. It means helping to erase the stigma of adoption and law of the union between a man and a woman. Because sex has no working to eliminate the many financial and legal barriers to it. It boundaries now, the transgender movement has been a natural next means removing the social and economic barriers that make it difficult step in this war against the family. for parents to choose life for their unborn babies. The theme that best describes this entire picture is selfish indul- Our protests and our pleas in defense of innocent lives must gence for our own pleasure. However, pleasure alone isolates us. remain as strong as ever. However, at the core of all of this should be Consider that we now live in a country that has killed over 60 million of our personal commitment to the traditional family as the critical foun- its own innocent, unborn children and which insists that post-abortive dation of a Godly and life-giving society. women who feel shame or regret must “shout” their abortions instead. A nation is only as strong as its families, and it is children that make In order to solve the problem of an anti-family culture, we must families strong. Let us pray for the strength and generosity to support attack its root. To preserve and re-build the traditional family, first we family life. It is only through true charity that we will re-build our fami- must re-form the whole of society so that every child is seen once lies and renew the culture of life in America. again as a blessing and every new life treated with true charity. Meg Wittman is executive director of Right to Life of Greater Men and women are made in the image and likeness of God. That Cincinnati, a pro-life organization in Southwest Ohio dedicated to the is wholly manifested in the love of a husband and wife when they promoting the dignity of and protecting all innocent human life in the cooperate with him to procreate. We know that love in marriage cre- public square. ates the deepest kind of unity — a unity that leads naturally to creation. The birth or adoption of a child establishes a unique bond between

The family is the original cell of social life. It is the natural society in which husband and wife are called to give themselves in love and in the gift of life. Authority, stability and a life of relationships within the family constitute the foundations for freedom, security and fraternity within society. The family is the community in which, from childhood, one can learn moral values, begin to honor God, and make good use of freedom. Family life is an initiation into life in society.

(CCC 2207)

For more information about the Pro-Life Office or to be added to our e-mail newsgroups, visit us online at www.covdio.org/prolife/ or call (859) 392-1500. Celebrating Catholic Schools Week Jan. 26–Feb.1

As we celebrate Catholic Schools Week, the power of a Catholic education can’t be overstated. Villa Madonna Academy, pictured, is a K-12 Catholic school in Northern Kentucky.

January 2020

My dear Friends,

Praised be Jesus Christ!

As we begin a new year and a new decade we pause to celebrate Catholic Schools Week. This celebration is especially dear to our hearts here in the Diocese of Covington where Catholic school education has been and continues to be a primary apostolate. From the earliest days of our Diocese, founded in 1853, until this very day Catholic schools have been a focus of our ministry. We are proud of our 29 grade schools and nine high schools and of our Thomas More University.

Please join me this week in taking part in the various diocesan and parish celebrations of Catholic schools. We live in a time where unfortunately faith is devalued and society is quickly becoming more and more secular. We are called as Catholics to transmit the faith as best we can to succeeding generations. One means of accomplishing this goal is through Catholic schools. The primary goal of every Catholic school — from pre-school to university — it to transmit the faith. If a Catholic school is not accomplishing this goal, it does not deserve to be called Catholic.

I take this opportunity to thank all those who through your generosity enable our schools to thrive in their mission. I thank our parents for choosing Catholic school education. I thank our teachers, administrators and staff of our schools for answering God’s call to teach, certainly a noble vocation. I thank our Department of Catholic Schools for its guidance and oversight of each of our schools.

Without a doubt, there are certainly alternatives to a thoroughly Catholic school education, but there are no substitutes!

Be assured of my prayers. Please, pray for me.

Yours devotedly in the Lord,

Most Rev. Roger J. Foys, D.D.,. Bishop of Covington

Catholic Schools THE MESSENGER • JANUARY 24, 2020 12 January 24, 2020 Messenger CATHOLIC SCHOOLS Catholic SchoolsWeek focusesonthe valuesofaCatholic education Michael Clines military that guide and protect the community. commitment to educating the whole child – religiously, Messenger Contributor Perhaps students will share how they have come to intellectually, physically and communally. My apprecia- Our beloved Catholic schools pro- know God better through their service. Some stu- tion goes out to the teachers who accept the responsibility vide an outstanding education in a dents and teachers will write to lawmakers thanking that the greatest impact on student achievement is the faith-enriched environment. They them for supporting Catholic schools. Students teacher and center that responsibility on our faith. I recog- deliver a safe environment, religious might show off their technology skills by creating nize the commitment parents make to send their children formation, excellent academics and videos that promote their school and school commu- to a Catholic school, and value the vital role that they play have a tremendous ability to prepare nity. Parents and community members will be invit- in our school communities. I know that most of our young people for adult occupations ed to schools to help celebrate Catholic schools in a schools could not exist without the commitment of the and higher education. variety of ways. thousands of benefactors who recognize the value of a As we celebrate Catholic Schools As superintendent of schools, in addition to all Catholic education to the students and to the communities Week – Learn. Serve. Lead. Succeed. the wonderful school activities that celebrate our of Northern Kentucky. – our schools will incorporate into Catholic schools, Catholic Schools Week also Catholic schools are truly a community, and by building the week many activities that cele- prompts me to reflect upon all the wonderful people a community around the Church’s teaching, we have an brate who we are and why we are so who make Catholic education possible. My grati- infinite source of strength, comfort and mercy. special. Teachers might incorporate a Michael Clines tude starts with Bishop Roger Foys, who inspires us Michael Clines is the superintendent of Catholic schools lesson into religion class about committing to life-long all to provide a thoroughly Catholic education in our dio- in the Diocese of Covington. service. Some schools will hold a morning prayer service cese from preschool through college. I thank all the priests and flag raising to honor those in public service and in the and school administrators who provide leadership and Many people support parentsinpassingonthe Catholic faith Catholic schools are a miracle. It’s I was blessed to have parents that sacrificed for lot of challenges before them. How overwhelming this a strong statement I know, but I would- me to go to a Catholic grade school and a Catholic world can be for them (and for all of us)! n’t write that if I didn’t truly believe high school. They even helped me, when they could, What a wonderful idea it is to set one week aside each it. Think about it just from our own pay for and graduate from a Catholic college. When I year and celebrate the marvel of Catholic education. country’s perspective; Catholic was growing up we didn’t have a lot of money, but we National Catholic Schools Week, celebrated this year Jan. schools were never a given, or even were rich in faith. Well, at least my parents were rich 26 through Feb. 1, has been taking place for 46 years now. part of the original plan. They have in faith. I on the other hand, probably not unlike a lot Living in the times that we do, this is a great opportunity had the odds stacked against them for of today’s students who are blessed to go to a to stop and really think about what it is we are celebrating. long periods of U.S. history. And yet, Catholic school, took a lot for granted and didn’t real- What is it about Catholic education that is so extraordi- not only did Catholic schools survive ize how lucky I was. I write these words, now, to nary? What makes a school “Catholic” in the first place? but, for the most part, they thrived. encourage Catholic educators and Catholic parents While you might get 25 different answers if you asked 25 We will never be able to accurately to remember that raising youth in the faith is cer- people that question, I think there are certain points on calculate the impact they have had on tainly not a sprint; it is a long, often painful which we could all agree. our country, even on those citizens marathon that requires a great deal of patience and Simply put, Catholic schools are part of the education who think they have no connection to David Cooley endurance. The youth, for their part, go through a lot ministry of the Catholic Church. I have heard Bishop them, and our world. of ups and downs and have a lot to learn as well as a Roger Foys, our shepherd and chief catechist, say more times than I can count that the primary reason for any Catholic school to exist is to pass on the Catholic faith. As a parent, I couldn’t agree more. That being said, parents and godparents are always meant to be the primary teach- ers of the faith; the schools are a ministry that exist to sup- (Continued on page 13) Messenger January 24, 2020 13 CATHOLIC SCHOOLS Catholic school teachers transmit the faith Bishop Roger Foys has often said that the primary pur- the parables that Jesus taught. They understand that there absorb every little thing I teach them about the sacra- pose of any Catholic school is to transmit the faith. are many meanings in parables, not just the most obvious ments. I love how engaged they are when I tell them stories Preparing students for the sacraments is one of the more one. Also, parables have meaning to their life now and it’s or we have discussions about reconciliation or first direct ways that Catholic schools transmit the faith espe- their job to figure out what Jesus is saying to them in this Communion. They ask so many intellectual questions that cially in the second grade as students prepare for the story. come from the heart. sacraments of reconciliation and first holy Communion. I think they understand just how holy and sacred it is to What stands out about this year’s second-grade class as Joanna Tallarigo receive a sacrament. They’re so reverent, honest and open. they approach the sacraments? St. Pius X, Edgewood As a school, we have been asked to take time to study Terri Birkenhauer Katie Parker the saints and to expose our students to saints that they St. Philip School, Melbourne St. Patrick School, Maysville may be unfamiliar with. My class has taken off with this This year’s second grade is very complimentary of one What stands out is their courage, especially when it exercise and they have really looked to the saints to be another. They are intelligent and inquisitive. They are comes to reconciliation. They seem very eager and not as their role models. I love teaching second graders because excited about their upcoming special day. nervous. I feel that they have a good understanding of it they truly have a child-like faith and love of Christ. They We have been working through our Eucharist book and being like going to the doctor when your body is sick, understand the simple idea that God just wants to be our we’ll be ready when first Communion comes. We have been except you are going to a priest to heal your soul. friend and he just wants us to spend time with him at concentrating on the idea that God calls us to be good lis- Mass, in adoration, or even simply in prayer. These stu- teners not just people who hear; we need to listen with our Marianne McGhee dents truly understand the importance of that time and minds and hearts as well as our ears. Villa Madonna Academy, Villa Hills they constantly remind me of that. This year’s class is incredibly kind. They are always Beth Gettig doing little acts of kindness for their classmates and other Amy Cowles St. Augustine School, Covington students in the school. I think they understand how easy it Blessed Sacrament, Ft. Mitchell What stands out is their love for Jesus and their desire is to do and say something nice to others. The students are They are like little sponges. They just completely (Continued on page 14) always making comparisons to Jesus when we are reading and doing things. The other day we were reading a book about Martin Luther King, Jr. and one of the students said “He acts like Jesus did!”

Karen Bunton St. Cecilia, Independence This year’s second grade loves to hear and talk about

(Continued from page 12) port them in that colossal task. A Catholic school and a Catholic home are both places where a young person should be able to grow with a clear understanding of what it means to have a relationship with Christ Jesus and the Gospel mission. Families are the domestic church. Our parishes and schools are an extension of our families and places where we can, first and foremost, worship God together. However, they are also places where we can gather as a community united in beliefs and values. Catholic schools are places where children are accepted, respected and never lost in the crowd because of the Catholic belief of the inherent dignity of every human individual. Parents believe that their children’s teachers should serve as moral role models. In its research, the CARA Institute at Georgetown University discovered that “strong moral values” is the top reason parents choose to send their child to a Catholic school. It’s clear that parents are looking for role models for their children who mirror their own religious beliefs and moral choices. This is one of the reasons why each year Bishop Foys commissions every new teacher and administrator to be there for the students in his place. Another reason parents choose Catholic schools is the daily exposure to the Catholic faith. Research and com- mon sense shows that not only is religion class an impor- tant part of developing a strong foundation, but also daily prayer and participation in the sacraments, especially Mass. The wonderful thing about the Catholic Church is that we are all in this together. Going back to the idea that pass- ing on the faith to the next generation is like running a marathon, it is nice to know about the people all around who support us. Just to name a few, there are the bishops and the priests, consecrated religious, deacons, fellow parishioners, relatives and friends who are there to assist. And for your consideration, I’d also like to humbly offer the assistance of the diocesan Office of Catechesis and Evangelization. On behalf of our bishop we are here to support teachers, students and families as they strive to grow in faith and lead lives of holiness. Catholic Schools Week is not only a great time to stop and celebrate who we are, but it is also an opportunity to look forward decide who we want to be. David Cooley is Co-director and office manager of the Office of Catechesis and Evangelization. Learn more at www.covdio.org/catechesis-evangelization/. 14 January 24, 2020 Messenger CATHOLIC SCHOOLS

Catholic schools — creating leaders through Transmit the faith (Continued from page 13) a‘revolutionof service’ to learn more about him. The students ask questions and In a video message to young men and women in students responsibility, how to use their time wisely and are excited about religion class. This particular group of advance of World Youth Day 2019, Pope Francis called on above all, how to help others. All of the different venues of children is kind, honest and compassionate. them to begin a “’revolution’ of service.” service out there help to give students an awareness of Something I have noticed about my second graders is In helping those who are suffering, both young believ- needs and a different perspective on life and its chal- their ability to see Jesus in other people and in everyday ers and nonbelievers can find “a strength that can change lenges. Our school truly embodies the teaching of service, life. I think this is something that most adults “forget” or the world,” the Pope said. “It is a revolution that can over- helping others and an awareness of community service. get “too busy” to do. These children see the good in others turn the powerful forces at work in our world.” and notice the beauty in the world around them. For exam- The Messenger asked high school teachers how they Rita Blakefield ple, one day at recess, a dandelion blew around the play- think service fosters leadership, and do you see the stu- President, St. Patrick Grandparents Club; secretary, ground and a student said, “Wow, I bet this dandelion has dents embodying that idea at your school? St. Patrick School Board; volunteer and janitor (at times) been on a beautiful journey!” St. Patrick School, Maysville Kathy Metzger and Christy Boehmker Service is a concept that is expected as much as study- Cindy Feeback Front Office ing for exams. Not only do the students participate and St. Therese School, Southgate Covington Latin School, Covington mostly enjoy this process, but they also learn from it and What stands out is the pure joy and excitement they Service leads to leadership as the students experience the receive gratification from doing so. express each day knowing they will be making two very world around them. They are engaged in activities with peo- Whether it is volunteering at grade school basketball important sacraments. They are truly excited to have ple of all ages and backgrounds. It is a good starting point for league, serving Christmas and Thanksgiving meals, plac- Jesus closer to their hearts. what they will encounter as they go out on their own. Our ing flags at the court house, crosses at the cemetery, visit- I believe my students understand the importance of students are smiling and talking about their time when they ing nursing and assisted living homes and on and on, there having Jesus in their lives. They know Jesus is always return to school. They build on their experiences by initiat- are so many instances our students reach out to serve the with them wherever they go. I feel many of us tend to for- ing special drives to collect items needed, going back to people of our community. I have also seen our students get this as we get caught up in our daily routines. places to tutor or help with distributions. Christian service serving even when it is not something they are doing as a is a wonderful way for the students to be involved. It is some- part of their daily school life. I see these students many Maria Borchardt and Carrie Williams thing they will carry with them and refer to as they find times on their own jumping in and volunteering to serve. St. Henry Catholic School, Elsmere their own paths to travel. Leadership and commitment go Leadership is indeed born out of these experiences but They have been taking this sacramental year to really hand in hand — so while they are performing their service leadership is gained in many other ways at our school due focus on being present in Mass. There are many students they are also learning what it takes to keep the world in har- to the size of the school and the ability to interact in small- with older siblings who came in this school year excited mony with one another. er groups, which promotes confidence and self-reliance. about the sacraments. These students are anxious, excited and really have their hearts into this special sacramental Barbara Droege Emily Vogt year. Cafeteria Manager Coordinator for Family Ministry (PTO) Villa Madonna Academy, Villa Hills St. Timothy School, Union Service fosters leadership in many ways. It teaches our Our school is service learning based so the students are (Continued on page 17)

Messenger January 24, 2020 17 CATHOLIC SCHOOLS

fully equipped concessions and locker rooms, a full set of Catholic schools—communitiesof learning, stands and a multi-sport field house now under construc- tion; with plans for even more in the coming years. The gen- serving, leading and succeeding more that have allowed the erosity of those who brought this into reality demonstrates students of Bishop Brossart how close the Bishop Brossart community is. BBHS is a true Bishop Brossart High to further cultivate their interests in areas like the arts, family, one who can take a sapling of an idea and grow it into the beautiful home we can now call our Mustang Athletic School: Charity First while also providing new collaboration environments ready to host a variety of classes and activities for all levels. This Complex, one who does not hesitate to capitalize on the great The beginning of high school marks a piv- addition, and those previous to it, have helped make Bishop opportunities we have been given and a family who, most otal transition for any student, both academ- Brossart High School a unique and great place to learn, fur- importantly, finds the greatest place of their growth to be ically and as an individual. What Bishop ther confirmed by being distinguished as a National Blue within the grace of God. Bishop Brossart High School is Brossart High School offers to each person Ribbon School in 2018. much more than just a static building; it is an ever-growing who walks through our doors is a commitment to make the Perhaps the most exciting growth of all, however, comes community of people brought together in one common goal: halls feel like home and equip every student with the tools to from the grand opening of the brand new Mustang Athletic to grow as people themselves in the image of God. That grow in faith, academics and beyond. Complex. This top of the line facility now includes: a turf growth, in all aspects of life, is exactly what Bishop Brossart Growth at Bishop Brossart is made possible through the field for both soccer and football, a track named after our can provide to any student who walks through our doors. reinforcement of our motto: “Charity First.” Students are girls track and Larosa’s Hall of Fame coach Dave Schuh, Article submitted by Bishop Brossart High School. given full exposure to the blessings that come from helping (Continued on page 18) others through the service days each grade participates in, as well as organizations like National Beta Club and National Honor Society that have charity as one of, if not, the main pillar of its foundation. Student involvement as a whole marks another area where Bishop Brossart allows our students to grow. With a countless array of organizations from Student Council to our decorated robotics team, there is immense encourage- ment for all students, no matter what their interests, to be involved. These enriching extracurriculars cultivate a com- munity and friendship among students and faculty alike, allowing a sense of true family to flourish. Having this unique sense of family allows for a culture of honesty and love, a quintessential environment for students to perform at their highest ability and fully realize the potential their future holds. At Bishop Brossart you will find staff willing to go above and beyond to ensure every student reaches that full poten- tial and has the tools to achieve the full scope of their future dreams and faith goals. The countless letters of recommen- dation for colleges and scholarships that are written attests to the close relationship each student is able to create with members of the faculty. A substantial factor of this close- ness comes from many of our teachers being involved as coaches and leaders of other student-involved organiza- tions, creating one family in God’s work. Just as each student experiences their own personal growth at Bishop Brossart, our school itself is growing with them as well. Since our humble beginnings as St. Mary’s High School in 1950, we have had numerous expansions to our campus. Among our most recent was the addition of a state-of-the-art library, chapel, performing arts center and

Service fosters leadership (Continued from page 14) always working on projects that have an impact on our community. Each class has a separate project that they focus on all year. Boonespring, a local nursing home, is next door where the students have visited with the resi- dents; they are church greeters and also get out into the community volunteering at organizations like Rose Garden Mission. I think that service fosters leadership by building con- fidence, and the students appreciate it when they are able to contribute and help others. It is important for us as par- ents to set that example for them and create those opportu- nities for them to serve others. Family Ministry is the par- ent support for the school and we also have athletic teams where parents volunteer their time to coach. St. Timothy School this year has created an entire program for leader- ship within the school for students who are interested in participating. Our children see the difference that they are making and want to grow and build on that.

Mike Schack Facilities Director Bishop Brossart High School, Alexandria I see leadership through service every day with our stu- dents. Whether it is clubs, school activities or sports teams you see the growth as they come here as freshmen and mature during their four years here. When they graduate you see responsible young men and women who have been taught and understand that service to others is the correct way to live your life. 18 January 24, 2020 Messenger CATHOLIC SCHOOLS

(Continued From page 17) men spiritually, academically, physically and socially. • Academically. Students are challenged via a wide range While the approach and traditions remain fundamentally of academic offerings and program levels. We celebrate the the same across generations of Colonels, there are new spiri- exceptional achievements of our students, such as: the 2018 tual challenges and opportunities, new breadth and depth to graduating class ACT average composite score of 26 and Covington Catholic academic standards, new athletic seasons and goals, and new greater than 85 percent pass rate on AP Exams (both well High School: social connections that both educate and inspire students’ above state and national averages); 7 National Merit Finalists futures in the following ways: (the most of any school in Northern Kentucky); 43 AP Growth • Spiritually. A young man experiences the humble satis- Scholars; 43 students accepted to the Kentucky Governor’s A two-time National Blue Ribbon School (in 2016 and 2007) faction of participating in community service with his fellow Programs for Scholars, Arts and Entrepreneurs over the past and the only all-male high school in the Diocese of Covington, Covington Catholic brothers. Our students contribute almost five years; and $22 Million in academic or athletic college Covington Catholic High School is approaching the century twice the required hours of community service each year, via scholarships being earned by more than 95 percent of the mark. 2018-19 marks the 94th school year for the “House of efforts such as tutoring at inner-city schools and actively Class of 2018. We also boast of a range of class levels and dis- Blue,” as well as the pending completion of a $9 Million major working at Special Olympics events in Northern Kentucky. In ciplines (across core subjects as well as the arts, languages, construction project of new and renovated facilities on the addition to Mass and other sacraments, which are regularly religion and social sciences, and our exemplary science, tech- current campus. The physical footprint is changed, but inside offered at school, our young men seize opportunities to grow nology, engineering and mathematics integrated curriculum the school the steadfast focus is on the mission to embrace the and communicate their faith, such as at the annual March for — STEM), which allows each student the opportunity to be Gospel message of Jesus Christ in order to educate young Life and mission/retreat trips. challenged in his area(s) of academic strength, while balanc- ing with a strong college prep curriculum in other areas, indi- vidually suited to him. • Physically. Covington Catholic has 13 KHSAA-sanctioned athletic teams (involving approximately 66 percent of stu- dents, and state championships in both football and basket- ball, as well as 11 regional champion or runner-up team fin- ishes in 2017-18), as well as through participation in intramu- ral sports, including a basketball league which involves about two-thirds of the student body in friendly but vigorous com- petition. • Socially. Students have access to a multitude of organized extracurricular clubs and experiences, but also with a “House System” which fortifies the brotherhood to embody “A Spirit That Will Not Die.” Whether as the Colonel Crazies support- ing our athletic teams in impressive — even award-winning — fashion, or on an individual level by supporting a classmate through good and bad, Covington Catholic students develop into young men in a spirited and supportive atmosphere. Contact Covington Catholic High School: www.covcath.org or (859) 491-2247. Article submitted by Covington Catholic High School.

Covington Latin School— achieve, excel, belong Exceptional students require exceptional educational opportunities. Ranked by Cincinnati Magazine and Niche as the #1 pri- vate school in Northern Kentucky, Covington Latin School has developed an unparalleled reputation by fostering an atmosphere of academic and spiritual leadership through its accelerated curriculum. Acceleration is a distinctive hallmark of Covington Latin School and offers an avenue for bright and enthusiastic fifth, sixth, and seventh grade students to advance one to two years; to move at a pace, level, and complexity appropriate to their individual needs, while surrounding them with like- minded and engaged peers who share their intellectual curiosity. And the results are impressive: the Covington Latin Class of 2019 averaged over $212,000 per student in scholar- ship offers and had an average ACT® composite score of 30.2. Graduates go on to excel in the nation’s finest colleges and universities, with 98% holding bachelor’s degrees and 48% with advanced or terminal degrees (MD, PhD, JD, etc.). Alumni have compiled tremendous records of achievement and leadership in the Church, business, law, engineering, medicine, public service, education, science, and technology sectors. But a premier Catholic education is more than cultivat- ing intellect and accomplishments alone. Covington Latin maintains a deep and abiding commitment to its Catholic identity. Our in-depth theology coursework builds on the foundations developed within families and provides compre- hensive understanding of the Catholic faith. This knowl- edge is put into practice by our Campus Ministry through weekly all-school Masses at the Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption, class retreats and humanitarian service work. Wide-ranging athletic and extracurricular involvement reflects CLS students’ commitment to academic, social, spir- itual, and personal aspects of their total formation. A broad spectrum of clubs and organizations, ranging from Ski Club, Junior Classical League and Literary Guild, to Academic Team, Robotics and Drama Clubs reflect the wide-ranging extracurricular interests of our students. We offer KHSAA-recognized varsity athletic teams in (Continued on page 19) Messenger January 24, 2020 19 CATHOLIC SCHOOLS

(Continued From page 18) experience and receive the benefits of a Catholic education. to the Holy Cross family, forged in a thousand different ways archery, eSports, baseball, basketball, cheerleading, cross- Over the past four years the Academic Transitions Program during a student’s four years here. country, golf, soccer, softball, swimming, tennis, track and has been developed to aid students who do not have a diag- We provide students with the best spiritual, educational volleyball. Latin School values the lessons taught by athletic nosed disability but still need academic support in areas of and extra-curricular opportunities possible to equip them participation: leadership, strength of character, teamwork time management, organizational and study skills as they with a foundation so that they can develop their dreams into and sportsmanship – respect for one’s opponents, acknowl- transition into high school. their brightest future. edgement of victory with humility and acceptance of defeat The benefits of Holy Cross’s diversified and challenging Article submitted by Holy Cross District High School. with grace. curriculum can be seen concretely in other areas as well. Students are best prepared for college and the world The average composite ACT score for all students was 22.7, beyond by having a strong spiritual foundation and learning above the national (20.8) and state (20.2) averages. In addi- Five pillars define the in a supportive, diverse, coeducational atmosphere- reflec- tion, 35 students have been 30 or higher over the past five tive of, and therefore preparatory for, the world they will years, a threshold mark that all students dream of achiev- mission at NCC: faith, inherit. Our students come from varied economic, educa- ing. Moreover, the average composite ACT of the top third of family, academic tional, cultural and geographic backgrounds, drawing its students is over 27.5. College scholarships in general have enrollment from throughout Southern Ohio, Indiana, and also grown dramatically. Last year 60 percent of the senior excellence, character development seven counties in Northern Kentucky. class accepted scholarships to over 30 different colleges and and community stewardship We believe that financial wealth should not determine universities. These scholarship offers opens a tremendous opportunity for students to achieve their dreams of a suc- We believe in … faith access to the best education, nor should it shape a learning Before even entering the building of Newport Central community. Covington Latin offers tuition assistance to cessful college career. Holy Cross High School has achieved many dreams: Catholic High School, visitors realize the importance of our families across a broad spectrum of financial circumstances faith. The giant white cross, positioned adjacent to Mary, can to ensure the Latin School experience is accessible to all expansion and growth of its campus, improvements to its facilities and remarkable academic success and curriculum be seen from miles around. Our cross logo adorns our front deserving students. brick entrance, while the Holy Mother looks out over the There has never been a more exciting time to be at development. However, despite all of this change, its distinc- tive character and core traditions have remained intact. Its panoramic view of the region. At the base of our front steps Covington Latin School and we invite families interested in sits tablets donning the Ten Commandments, the Beatitudes exploring the possibilities Covington Latin may hold for priority remains — producing Catholic young adults and well-rounded citizens who care about and work well with and the corporal works of mercy. their children, to join us at Covington Latin’s Open House on Once in the classrooms, more than just tangible objects Thursday, Feb. 20 at 6:30 p.m. Reservations are available at others. Holy Cross offers a wide range of extracurricular opportunities which allow students to develop and discover are present as a testament to our faith. Every single day our covingtonlatin.org or by calling 859.291.7044. morning announcements start with a prayer. Furthermore, Article submitted by Covington Latin School. talents, friendships and experiences. Almost 90 percent of the students participate in at least one extracurricular, 75 every single teacher in every single class begins with a percent on one of our 21 athletic teams. More importantly, prayer of their own. Christ was the greatest teacher and our every graduate of Holy Cross has performed a minimum of own faculty and staff do their best to model their behaviors 100 hours of community service, with many students going after him. Holy Cross District High far beyond that figure. National Honor Society members do At the foundation of everything we stand for, you can find School — providing at least 10 additional hours each year. Students do all of this our faith in Jesus Christ, the Son of God. Our academics, service on their own time, not during school hours, helping character, community stewardship and family are all in the opportunity, developing dreams make Holy Cross an even more integral part of Northern pursuit of eternal heaven. Holy Cross High School has a proud tradition of provid- Kentucky and fostering a community spirit that will last a We believe in … family ing a strong faith-filled education for its students. Since its lifetime. What also lasts forever is a deep-rooted connection At NCC, students develop a sense of family that extends founding in 1929, the vision has transformed to meet the (Continued on page 20) ever-changing needs of students. Holy Cross High School has undergone a transformation that makes it in some ways unrecognizable to alumni from past eras. The dream was to build the school into one of the Providing quality Christ-centered elementary educationtochildreninour urban areas strongest schools in the area. There have been expansions curriculum, extracurricular activities, and the campus. And yet, despite this growth, Holy Cross has retained the virtues Every day is Open House at the ACUE Schools. and advantages of the small school fondly remembered by To schedule a tour, please contact the school directly. alumni: small classes, a supportive family atmosphere, indi- vidual attention and a high level of involvement. HOLY CROSS ELEMENTARY PRINCE OF PEACE The student body of Holy Cross is as diverse as that of SCHOOL MONTESSORI any school in the diocese, coming from an amazing range of 3615 Church Street, Latonia 625 Pike Street, Covington socioeconomic and academic backgrounds. Over the years, (859) 581-6599 (859) 431-5153 the school’s curriculum has grown to match this diversity. Please call to schedule a tour. Call to schedule Five levels of study and individualized scheduling allow our an observation. students to take courses that will challenge them while pro- HOLY FAMILY SCHOOL viding a genuine opportunity to achieve their future dreams. 338 E. 16th Street, Covington ST. ANTHONY SCHOOL The flexibility and variety of the curriculum enable stu- (859) 581-0290 485 Grand Avenue dents to move back and forth among different levels as their Please call to schedule a tour. Covington preferences and development in various subjects dictate. (859) 431-5987 Holy Cross High School has continued to expand its cur- HOLY TRINITY SCHOOL (K-8) Sunday, January 26 riculum. Offering only one A.P. course in 1994, Holy Cross 235 Division Street, Bellevue 10:00AM – 1:00PM now provides courses that will provide the highest level of (859) 291-6937 challenges for students, enabling them to earn college cred- Sunday, January 26 its. Advanced Placement courses are offered in English and ST. AUGUSTINE SCHOOL Physics. We work with Thomas More University, Northern 12:00 – 2:30PM 1840 Jefferson Avenue Kentucky University and The University of the Cumberland Covington to offer dual credit courses in Calculus, American History, CELEBRATING (859) 261-5564 Foreign Policy, World History, Spanish and Biology. Students CATHOLIC Sunday, January 26 can actually earn credits while at Holy Cross and transfer 12:00-1:30 PM these credits to other colleges. A skilled and motivated stu-  dent, taking full advantage of this curriculum, can get a SCHOOLS WEEK   tremendous head start on his or her college education, ben- efiting both monetarily and academically.   We are grateful for the support of our parishes: Beginning in the 2019-20 school year the Practical    Engineering and Design program was introduced. This † Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption STEAM program introduces students to education and   † St. Ann Mission, Covington  † Our Savior, Covington career paths in these fields. Students interested in such † Mother of God, Covington † Holy Spirit, Newport careers as engineering, architecture, graphic/product design, as well as technical careers, are given exposure and † Holy Cross, Latonia † Divine Mercy, Bellevue a foundation in these areas. † Sts. Boniface & James, Ludlow † St. Bernard, Dayton Additional programs are in place to aid students at Holy † St. Benedict, Covington † St. Augustine, Covington Cross. The award-winning Academic Enhancement † St. Anthony, Covington † St. John, Covington Program — the first of its kind in the diocese — permits stu- dents with learning disabilities to have a full high school Catholic Urban Education Since 1834 • www.covingtondiocese.org • (859) 392-1500 20 January 24, 2020 Messenger CATHOLIC SCHOOLS

(Continued From page 19) connections with classmates, faculty and alumni. Reunions We believe in … academic excellence every five years are routine in our community, as are alumni We are proud to address the whole student, and through beyond the traditional sense of the word. Teachers seek to relationships beyond high school. Even more special are the this we ensure academic rigor. There is ongoing discussion engage students not only in instructional time but also in “get togethers” like that of the Newport Catholic Class of concerning academic rigor and a challenge to each student the hallways. A greeting while strolling through the halls by 1968 that meets every Friday for breakfast at Sis’s in to perform to the best of his or her ability. This may mean a faculty member is commonplace, as are the opportunities Newport. that students look to challenge themselves in our numerous for support and socialization. Students will develop lifelong AP courses, dual credit options or honors classes. On the other hand, some students need the support of the Academic Enhancement Program to meet their greatest standard. The students in between can find challenges in the variety of electives offered in our school curriculum. The Catholic schools of the Diocese of Covington welcome you to discover how they are We believe in … character development raising the standards by incorporating faith, academics and service in education. Visit them on the web or better Our faculty and staff take the approach that our students yet attend an open house. Private tours are also available. Contact the school of your choice to arrange a tour. are more than test scores. They are people and the future of our world. With this in mind, there is no greater investment of time, talent or treasure than in Catholic education. St. Joseph Academy, St. Philip School, Covington Latin School, ELEMENTARY St. Agnes School, Looking at the character of our alumni it is obvious that stu- SCHOOLS Ft. Wright Walton Melbourne Covington dents are not just prepared for their four years of high (859) 261-0543 (859) 485-6444 (859) 441-3423 (859) 291-7044 school or even just their next four years of college; we are Blessed Sacrament http://school. www.sjawalton.com www.stphilipky.org www.covingtonlatin.org School, preparing students for life and most importantly for heaven. saintagnes.com We believe in … community stewardship Ft. Mitchell St. Joseph School, St. Pius X School, Holy Cross District High Our school would not exist if it were not for the generous (859) 331-3062 St. Anthony School, Camp Springs (pre- Edgewood School, Covington giving of time, talent and treasure. Our foundations were www.school.bssky.org Taylor Mill school) (859) 341-4900 (859) 431-1335 built by a number of Catholic vocations that inspired alum- (859) 431-5987 (859) 635-2491 www.stpiusx.com www.hchscov.com ni to support our missions. As a tribute to this, we encourage Holy Cross School, www.stjoseph www.saintanthony our students to give back through service projects both Covington taylormill.org campspringsschool.com St. Therese School, Newport Central (859) 581-6599 Southgate Catholic High School, required and optional, and establish giving as a lifelong www.holycrosselem.com St. Augustine School, St. Joseph School, (859) 441-0449 Newport promise. Through the daily focus on faith, family, academic excel- Augusta Cold Spring www.sainttherese.ws (859) 292-0001 lence, character development and community stewardship, Holy Family School, (606) 756-3229 (859) 441-2025 www.ncchs.com Newport Central Catholic High School helps students pre- Covington www.saintaugustine www.stjosephcolds St. Thomas School, pare for college, employment, life and eternal life. (859) 581-0290 augusta.org pring.com Ft. Thomas Notre Dame Academy, www.stbenedict (859) 572-4641 Park Hills Article submitted by Newport Central Catholic High St. Joseph School, covington.com St. Augustine School, www.sttschool.org (859) 261-4300 School. Crescent Springs Covington www.ndapandas.org (859) 578-2742 Holy Trinity School (K-8), (859) 261-5564 St. Timothy School, www.sjscrescent.com Bellevue www.staugustines.net Union St. Henry District High Notre Dame Academy: (859) 291-6937 (859) 384-5100 School, Erlanger St. Mary School, www.holytrinity- St. Catherine of Siena https://saint-timothy- (859) 525-0255 Innovators of tomorrow Alexandria school.org School, Ft. Thomas school.org www.shdhs.org As Northern Kentucky’s ONLY (859) 635-9539 (859) 572-2680 Catholic college-preparatory high school www.saintmary Immaculate Heart of www.stcatherineof Villa Madonna Academy, St. Patrick School, exclusively for young women, Notre Dame parish.com/school Mary School, Burlington siena.org Villa Hills Maysville Academy (NDA) provides a premier education empower- (859) 689-4303 St. Patrick School, (859) 331-6333 (606) 564-5949 ing young women to become intelligent and compassion- www.ihm-ky.org St. Cecilia School, Maysville www.villamadonna.org www.stpatschool.com ate leaders who make a difference in the world. Independence (606) 564-5949 For well over a century Notre Dame Academy students Mary, Queen of Heaven (859) 363-4314 Villa Madonna Academy, have been ignited with a passion for learning. Through School, Erlanger www.stpatschool.com Villa Hills www.stceciliaschool.net HIGH SCHOOLS the culture of innovation at NDA, they have become criti- (859) 371-8100 St. Paul School, Florence (859) 331-6333 cal and creative thinkers, effective communicators and www.mqhschool.com St. Edward School, (859) 647-4070 Bishop Brossart High www.villamadonna.org skillful collaborators. Our students today at Notre Dame Cynthiana www.stpaulschool.net Academy are the innovators of tomorrow. Prine of Peace School, School, Alexandria (859) 234-2731 This culture of innovation is not a trend or a buzz Covington Sts. Peter and Paul (859) 635-2108 www.stedwardky.org/ www.bishopbrossart.org UNIVERSITY phrase but rather a critical component of a Notre Dame (859) 431-5153 school School, California Academy education established by the Sisters of Notre www.popcov.com (859) 635-4382 Covington Catholic High Thomas More University, Dame. Well over a century ago, the Sisters were visionar- St. Henry School, www.stspp.com School, Park Hills Crestview Hills ies and innovators themselves. At a time when women Elsmere (859) 491-2247 (859) 341-5800 didn’t even have the right to vote, the Sisters of Notre (859) 342-2551 www.covcath.org www.thomasmore.edu Dame realized the importance of educating young www.sthenryschool.net women. What a tremendous difference these trailblazers (Continued on page 21) Messenger January 24, 2020 21 CATHOLIC SCHOOLS

(Continued From page 20) is propelling an already incredible St. Henry District High was Combined Champions in the All “A” State Invitational. made in 1906 when they founded Notre Dame Academy! School to the next level. The “Building on Excellence, This spring, boys’ and girls’ lacrosse will kick off their Today we are charged with continuing that innovative Guided by Faith” expansion is near completion and the offi- inaugural seasons. spirit and forward-thinking approach to education at cial blessing and dedication is set for Sunday, Feb. 16 at 2 p.m. To experience a day in the life of a Crusader, families are Notre Dame Academy. We do this by empowering our stu- The event will begin with a presentation in the new audito- encouraged to schedule a campus tour or shadow day by con- dents with the fundamental skills they need to be pre- rium and a blessing provided by the Most Reverend Roger J. tacting the Enrollment Office at (859) 525-5844. To learn more, pared for college and to succeed later in life. NDA leads the Foys, D.D., Bishop of Covington. All are welcome to cele- visit shdhs.org or connect with them on Facebook, Twitter way in educational technology and science research, inte- brate and tour the 43,000 square foot addition, including: and Instagram. grating core competencies that enable students to thrive 650 seat Drees Homes Auditorium Article submitted by St. Henry District High School. in the 21st century. We cultivate innovation not only in our Dan and Karen Riegler Family Alumni Gallery classrooms but also through our fine arts programs, ath- Ed and Betty Dusing Black Box Theater letics and in the many extracurricular opportunities Wilson Family Art Gallery St. Patrick School — offered at NDA. Nields Family Box Office Most importantly, we encourage our students to be Brent Rouse Concessions (Smiley’s Snack Shop) ‘self-realization trailblazers and innovators in their service to others. The Scene workshop and studio STEM and biology labs in Christ’ young women of Notre Dame Academy come to under- In 1860 Father Peter McMahon was the pastor of St. Art, band, chorus, and general classrooms stand the opportunities and responsibilities of global citi- Patrick Church, Maysville. He began classes in the rectory. Expanded media center zenship. They are inspired to use their God-given gifts and By 1902 the rectory educated eight grades, and in 1926 went Virgin Mary grotto (scheduled for completion later this their Notre Dame Academy education to make a differ- to 12 grades. In 1956 the new school building was erected. In year) ence in the world. 1999, through the effort of the community and school fami- To RSVP for the blessing and dedication, please visit At Notre Dame Academy, we believe in an education lies, a marvelous high school expansion was added. shdhs.org/rsvp or call 859.525.5848. that combines the timeless wisdom of our Catholic faith No matter where the learning took place — run-down old St. Henry faculty work together to help students grow with the necessary skills that our students will need to homes, portable classrooms or the fine brick school now academically, personally, and spiritually. Through college- adapt to a continuously changing world. With an innova- over 50 years old — St. Patrick School’s goal is, and always prep courses, academic support programs, and extracurric- tive approach that integrates academics, arts and athlet- has been, to encourage the growth of each student spiritu- ular activities, students are prepared for the demanding ics, we are molding young women to have a vibrant faith ally, intellectually and physically. challenges of the future. Each year, St. Henry continues to be and a passion for learning. St. Patrick School is one of only a handful of Catholic ranked as one of the top high schools. Over the previous four To learn more about the advantages of a Notre Dame schools in the United States educating students from grades years, St. Henry had: Academy education, visit www.ndapandas.org. kindergarten to 12, supported by a single parish, not by a Over $41 million in scholarship offers Article submitted by Notre Dame Academy. district. Our mission is to provide a positive educational ACT composite average score of 26.15 experience, in which each student attains maximum self- 23 Governor’s Scholars Program graduates realization in Christ, acquires a body of knowledge and 6 National Merit Finalists and 10 National Merit develops values and ethical standards consistent with St. Henry District High Commended Catholic principles. These standards emphasize one’s rela- 9 National AP Scholars / 74 AP Scholars with Distinction School — Building on tionship with God, to one’s self and to one’s neighbor. / 50 AP Scholars with Honors / 74 AP Scholars The school endeavors to teach students the necessary Excellence, Guided by Faith Out of 1355 AP Exams, 80 percent of students received a balance between self-discipline and freedom that enables It is a great time to be a part of the Crusader community! score of 3 or higher them to participate significantly in society. Our purpose is The completion of a $7.8 million building expansion project St. Henry students understand the importance of what it to educate students for full Christian participation in the means to be #CRUnited in new millennium. Christ. Inside and outside St. Patrick School is committed to forming students in the classroom, the the Christian tradition of reverence, peace, scholarship, Department of Religious service and community. Our objectives: Formation works with the • Students fulfill their potential — spiritual, intellectual Northern Kentucky com- and physical. munity through service, • Students use their creative abilities. campus ministry and cate- • Parents become involved in all phases of the students’ chesis. It is during the all- education. school masses, prayer serv- • Students exercise leadership while recognizing the ices, retreats and communi- value of being a cooperative group member. ty service opportunities • Students develop awareness of responsibility through where students truly come community service. together and grow from the • Students develop a deeper relationship with Christ and teachings of the Catholic an understanding of the Catholic faith. faith. • Students recognize Christ in every person. The Crusader communi- • Students develop Christian moral and religious values ty is extremely proud of the through instruction and practice. success of its athletic pro- • Students develop a spirit of patriotism and civic duty grams. through study and special opportunities to exercise such. The boys’ cross country • Students develop practical and leisure interests to pro- team reached the podium at **Voted “Best Doctors” 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018 mote personal growth and social responsibility. the state championships, Visit St. Patrick School, Maysville, to get a firsthand placing third. impression. Call for an appointment today, (606) 564-5949. The boys’ golf team Article submitted by St. Patrick School, Maysville. qualified for the first Annual All-State Championship and finished second in the All “A” State Villa Madonna Academy tournament. Villa is an award-winning co-ed The girls’ soccer team school in Northern Kentucky cele- defended its 34th District brating 115 years of helping students to learn, lead, serve Championship and contin- and succeed through Catholic education. It is unique in that ued on to win the All “A” it is the only K-12 Catholic, Benedictine school in the state. State Championship. Villa’s K-6 Elementary School and grades 7-12 Junior High The girls’ volleyball and High School students come from Ohio, Kentucky, Michael S. Jean Saif Chris D. Joseph T. team won the NKAC confer- Indiana, and around the world. They learn and grow togeth- Halpin, MD Noll, MD Jaweed, MD Thon, OD Mando, MD ence title, District 17 title, er on Villa’s beautiful 68 acre campus overlooking the Ohio and head coach Maureen River. Kaiser was awarded the What would make a student fly across the globe or drive KHSAA coach of the year. across a river to attend Villa Madonna Academy? Results The competitive cheer are one reason. Villa students score higher than state and squad qualified for nation- local averages on standardized tests at all grade levels. The als. Class of 2019 had a 28 average ACT score, and 41 percent of The swim and dive team the class earned scholarships covering at least 50 percent of (Continued on page 22) 22 January 24, 2020 Messenger CATHOLIC SCHOOLS

(Continued From page 21) their college tuition. Parents believe it’s the people behind the results that make the difference. They say small class Thomas More University—‘MakeItMore’ sizes, the welcoming community, engaged teachers, and a Thomas More University provides students with some- Tradition at Thomas More. Students come to Thomas values-based approach to education are the top reasons thing much more than job training. Graduates are pre- More looking for more. And that’s exactly what the they chose Villa. The small-by-design class sizes (9:1 stu- pared for any career. But they leave prepared for much University offers. At Thomas More, students take that dent-teacher ratio) allow Villa’s dynamic teachers to help more. opportunity and make it more. students find their best path to success, and the Benedictine “A college education isn’t supposed to be a hoop to jump Founded in 1921 as Villa Madonna College by the values of scholarship, hospitality, service, stewardship and through or a box to check in order to get a good job,” said Benedictine Sisters, Thomas More University respect help create an environment where everyone is wel- President Chillo. “Education is a transformative endeavor, still serves the community and globe with the same come and challenged to grow academically and spiritually. not a transactional exchange. It is a community, not a com- mission on which the Benedictine Sisters founded Villa Villa’s welcoming community extends outside the class- modity.” Madonna College — to serve as a Catholic higher educa- room as well. All students have the opportunity to play on At Thomas More, students are exposed to the very best tion institution that challenges students of all faiths to the Villa Vikings competitive sports teams, perform on thought, literature, art and music. They learn to harness examine the ultimate meaning of life, their place in the stage, or participate in one of Villa’s many clubs. In fact, world, and their responsibility to others. With this focus, more than 90 percent of students participate in an extracur- Thomas More continually ranks competitively among ricular activity, thus contributing to Villa’s history of suc- other high education institutions nationally and is cur- cess. The Villa Vikings compete at regional and state levels rently positioned as No. 1 in long-term gain among four- as do the academic, chess and Future Lego League teams, year private and public institutions in Kentucky. and the Destination Imagination team has competed on a Top highlights at the University this past year include global stage. In addition, artists and authors at Villa have welcoming Thomas More’s 15th president, Joseph L. been recognized regionally and nationally for the quality of Chillo, LP.D., introducing the Diocese of Covington their work. Guarantee, which ensures that all diocesan graduates Villa is Catholic, co-ed, close to home, and more afford- who meet admission criteria are awarded $20,000 in insti- able than you might think. Villa works diligently to provide tutional aid, opening a new space dedicated to student scholarships and financial assistance to qualified families: veterans and celebrating another national championship 42 percent of students receive assistance. You are invited to win from the Women’s Basketball team as it finished the explore Villa as an option for your family. Observe Villa stu- season with a perfect record. dents, talk to parents, and meet the faculty. Learn more by For more information about campus happenings, to visiting villamadonna.org or by contacting Janet Baugh, schedule a campus visit or to learn about scholarship our Admissions Director, at [email protected] / opportunities, visit thomasmore.edu. 859-331-6333. Article submitted by Thomas More University. Article submitted by Villa Madonna Academy.

NOTICE OF NONDISCRIMINATORY POLICY AS TO STUDENTS Diocesan Policy states that “No person shall be refused admission to any church, school or institution or membership in any Catholic society or organization solely on the grounds of race or nationality.” In keeping with this policy, the schools under the auspices of the Department of Catholic Education, Diocese of Covington, do not discriminate on the basis of race, color or national or ethnic origin. Students of any race who meet the individual school’s the power of human rea- eligibility requirements are admitted to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities gener- son to solve problems and ally accorded to students at that school and that school does not discriminate on the basis of discover truth. Most race in administration of its educational policies, admission policies, scholarships and loan pro- importantly, they have the grams and other school-administered programs. The names and addresses of these schools are chance to begin to become listed below. the person they were creat- SECONDARY SCHOOLS ed to be. This is the power Bishop Brossart - 4 Grove Street, Alexandria, Kentucky 41001-1295 of the liberal arts in the Covington Catholic - 1600 Dixie Highway, Covington, Kentucky 41011-2797 Catholic Intellectual Covington Latin - 21 East Eleventh Street, Covington, Kentucky 41011-3196 Holy Cross - 3617 Church Street, Covington, Kentucky 41015-1498 Newport Central Catholic - 13 Carothers Road, Newport, Kentucky 41071-2497 Notre Dame Academy - 1699 Hilton Drive, Covington, Kentucky 41011-2705 St. Henry - 3755 Scheben Drive, Erlanger, Kentucky 41018-1073 St. Patrick - 318 Limestone Street, Maysville, Kentucky 41056-1248 Villa Madonna Academy - 2500 Amsterdam Road, Villa Hills, Kentucky 41017-3798 ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS Blessed Sacrament - 2407 Dixie Highway, Ft. Mitchell, Kentucky 41017-2994 Holy Cross - 3615 Church Street, Covington, Kentucky 41015-1430 Holy Family - 338 East Sixteenth Street, Covington, Kentucky 41014-1304 Holy Trinity School - 235 Division Street, Bellevue, Kentucky 41073-1101 Immaculate Heart of Mary - 5876 Veterans Way, Burlington, Kentucky 41005-8824 Mary Queen of Heaven - 1130 Donaldson Road, Erlanger, Kentucky 41018-1088 Prince of Peace - 625 Pike Street, Covington, Kentucky 41011-2798 St. Agnes - 1322 Sleepy Hollow Road, Ft. Wright, Kentucky 41011-2795 St. Anthony - 485 Grand Avenue, Covington, Kentucky 41015-0219 St. Augustine - 203 East Fourth Street, Augusta, Kentucky 41002-1117 St. Augustine - 1840 Jefferson Avenue, Covington, Kentucky 41014-1165 St. Catherine of Siena - 23 Rossford Avenue, Ft. Thomas, Kentucky 41075-1298 St. Cecilia - 5313 Madison Pike, Independence, Kentucky 41051-0186 St. Edward - 107 North Walnut Street, Cynthiana, Kentucky 41031-1225 St. Henry - 3825 Dixie Highway, Erlanger, Kentucky 41018-1863 St. Joseph - 6829 Four Mile Road, Camp Springs, Kentucky 41059-9746 St. Joseph - 4011 Alexandria Pike, Cold Spring, Kentucky 41076-1817 St. Joseph - 2474 Lorraine Avenue, Crescent Springs, Kentucky 41017-1439 St. Joseph Academy - 48 Needmore Street, Walton, Kentucky 41094-1028 St. Mary - 9 South Jefferson Street, Alexandria, Kentucky 41001-1398 St. Patrick - 318 Limestone Street, Maysville, Kentucky 41056-1248 St. Paul - 7303 Dixie Highway, Florence, Kentucky 41042-2126 Sts. Peter & Paul - 2160 California Crossroads, California, Kentucky 41007-9713 St. Philip - 1400 Mary Ingles Hwy., Melbourne, Kentucky 41059-9701 St. Pius X - 348 Dudley Road, Ft. Mitchell, Kentucky 41017-2699 St. Therese - 2516 Alexandria Pike, Southgate, Kentucky 41071-3298 St. Thomas - 428 So. Ft. Thomas Avenue, Ft. Thomas, Kentucky 41075-2295 St. Timothy - 10272 Hwy 42, Union, Kentucky 41091 Villa Madonna Academy - 2500 Amsterdam Road, Villa Hills, Kentucky 41017-3798 Messenger January 24, 2020 23

youth under religious painter Johann Schmitt, understood WWI draft registration card and a 1918 city directory list Duveneck murals Maes’ ideas perfectly and went right to work. The layout of his occupation here as a “church painter.” (Continued from page 1) the main mural itself would take the form of a “triptych” – But by the time William Blank was hired to clean them in the smaller panel to the right the Sovereign High Priest a single painting comprised of three panels. To accommo- in 1920, the famous works were in bad shape. “After careful of the Old Law (with attendant if you wish) offering the date the large, 21-foot high canvases required, Duveneck inspection,” he wrote Father Flynn in his letter, “I found loaves of Bread on the Altar of Propitiation; in the larger executed the works in his roomy studio at the Cincinnati the paintings were in worse condition than at first expect- Art Museum, a space given ed.” He pointed out that the paintings had been “cut up in to him because of his teach- sections” when glued to the wall, and that “an improper ing position with the Art and impractical method was used in hanging them”, giving Academy. the murals a wrinkled appearance. For four and a half years Additionally, he noted that the glaze used to protect the he worked on the murals. In painting’s surface had “formed a soft scum on the canvas December 1909, he put the and due to atmospheric conditions, blurred the pictures to finishing touches on the last such an extent that the subjects were almost beyond recog- panel, then put down his nition.” He blamed the problem on a primitive glaze made brush. The triptych was fin- from the “buttermilk process,” a popular French technique ished, along with a second, made by mixing milk, slaked lime and linseed oil, which smaller mural destined for was thought to be a satisfactory substitute for more expen- the chapel’s upper west sive glazes. But in wet and humid weather, the mixture wall, depicting Christ tends to grow moist, soften and ferment, which damaged breaking bread with his dis- Duveneck’s original underlying paint. ciples at Emmaus. In William Blank had his work cut out for him. He removed January 1910, amid great the canvases completely from the chapel walls and stripped fanfare and public excite- off the defective glaze and sizing. At his studio on Kemper ment, the finished three- Lane, he then set about carefully retouching the damaged Photo courtesy of the Kenton County Public Library, Covington. panel triptych and smaller areas of surface paint laid down by Duveneck’s own hand. Frank Duveneck about the time he mural were exhibited in the He cleaned the canvas backs, applied new sizing, then care- painted the murals. main entrance hall of the fully rehung each section of canvas with a new, more per- Cincinnati Art Museum. manent glue of his own creation. He preserved his work by They would be installed in the cathedral’s chapel later that applying “a hard and transparent glaze” of his own formu- May. lation that “not only acts as an everlasting preservative, but

Photo by Stephen Enzweiler. Very few records exist that tell us about William Blank, also restores the colors to their natural lustre.” Detail of the left panel, showing a modern bishop celebrating Mass. the artist hired to restore them. Nothing is known of his In his letter William Blank concluded, “If in years to artistic life – no works, no exhibitions, no newspaper arti- come, any dust that may accumulate on the surface can eas- cles. What we do know is that he was born Wilhelm Edward ily be removed by anyone, regardless of artistic ability, by panel to the left a priest of the New Law (a Bishop with Blank on May 30, 1877 in Germany, the second youngest using ivory soap, luke warm water, with a sponge or cloth, attendant priests if you like) offering the Holy Sacrifice of child of Nickolas and Barbar Blank. In 1883, the family of and without any fear of injuring the colors, canvas, or the Mass, both (outside panels) facing the Crucifixion.” seven emigrated to America and settled in Newark, New process.” Frank Duveneck, a devout Catholic who studied as a Jersey, where William grew up. His father was a “decorator William Blank’s diligent restoration of Duveneck’s and house painter” as was murals has lasted a full century. They have been cleaned his older brother Gustav. only twice since, the latest during the renovation of 2000. Another brother, Louis, The murals we see today are as bright and colorful as the became a medical doctor. day Frank Duveneck finished them in 1909, and they William moved to remain one of America’s great national treasures of sacred Cincinnati around 1908 and art. But that distinction almost didn’t happen. It was had a studio and residence thanks to the ingenuity and skill of an obscure Cincinnati at 2385 Kemper Lane in artist named William E. Blank that Duveneck’s murals Walnut Hills. Only his have been preserved for future generations to enjoy. 24 January 24, 2020 Messenger

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PARISH OFFICE SECRETARY ST. PATRICK SCHOOL PRINCIPAL St. Augustine Parish in Covington, KY (www.staugustines.net) is seeking to identify qualified, Saint Patrick School has a vacancy for the position of actively practicing Roman Catholic candidates for the Principal beginning with the 2020-2021 school year. Our part-time (Monday – Friday; 9:00AM – 1:00PM) position school is a growing Pre-K through 12th grade Catholic of Parish Office Secretary. The responsibilities of this parochial school in beautiful Maysville, Kentucky. As the position will include management of the parish calendar only Catholic school offering high school courses within a and the database of 375 families, sacramental record 50-mile radius in Kentucky and Ohio, we strive to form keeping, tracking of Mass offerings, editing the bulletin, our students to be intentional disciples of Jesus Christ as word processing, and telephones. Requirements include they prepare to assume their adult responsibilities. strong organizational skills and attention to detail, basic Candidates must be actively practicing Catholics with a computer and word processing skills, comfort with a small demonstrated commitment to Catholic education. A office environment, and flexibility. Interested candidates Master’s Degree in Education or an Education related should send a letter of interest, simple resume including program is required for the position, as well as a references with email addresses, and compensation Kentucky teaching and/or Administrative Certificate. history to Stephen Koplyay at [email protected] or Candidates should have at least five years of teaching fax to 859/392-1589. EOE experience with some of that time spent in Catholic education. Administrative experience as a Principal and/or Vice Principal is preferred in Candidates but is not required to apply for this position. Commensurate experience or credentials may be accepted for teaching, Catholic education, and/or administration. All wishing to apply for this position need to submit a cover letter, resume, and a copy of all relevant transcripts and certifications to Father Andrew Young at 110 E. 3rd St., Maysville, KY 41056 or by e-mail to [email protected].

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Attorney General, the state ‘Actual innocence’warrants retrial lower courts and the Supreme Court of Florida Mark Pattison have set aside such evidence.” Catholic News Service Pearcy was given a life sentence for the murder. Two fellow WASHINGTON — In an amicus brief to a Florida capital prisoners said Pearcy told them Dailey was not with him at the murder case, the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops told the murder scene, although the two had been together earlier that Supreme Court the claims of “actual innocence” of the Florida evening. The USCCB brief said police showed newspaper clip- man sentenced to death for the crime “must be resolved on the pings of the murder to 15 inmates in a bid to have some testify merits and cannot be dismissed on any procedural grounds.” against Dailey. In the case, “the central question raised by the petition is “The evidence of Mr. Dailey’s actual innocence is not only whether our society can permit the execution of a person with- credible; it is overwhelming,” the USCCB brief said; the U.S. out requiring a new trial when he has come forward with per- bishops were jointed in the brief by the Florida Conference of suasive evidence of actual innocence,” said the brief, dated Catholic Bishops, the public policy arm of the state’s bishops. Jan. 17. “The Catholic Church opposes the death penalty for it rep- James Milton Dailey, was found guilty in 1987 of complicity resents a violation of human dignity. It is fundamentally in the murder of a 14-year-old girl. The verdict was rendered incompatible with the principle that human life is sacred and June 27; his first execution date was set for that Aug. 7 — 40 that redemption is always possible. The moral harm is all the days after the conviction. more grievous, and utterly intolerable, when this irrevocable That Dailey has spent every day in prison wondering when punishment is imposed upon an innocent person,” the brief his execution will be is in itself grounds against the Eighth said. Amendment’s provision against cruel and unusual punish- The brief took note of the Supreme Court’s plurality opin- ment, said the 36-page brief, written by Owen Pell, counsel of ion in a 1958 case in which the court said, “The basic concept record for White & Case in New York City. The most recent stay underlying the Eighth Amendment is nothing less than the dig- of execution was granted Oct. 23. nity of man.” It also quoted from a 1993 high court case in Dailey “was imprisoned over 30 years ago for a murder he NOVENA which the justices said, “The central purpose of any system of has steadfastly denied committing. Indeed, it is undisputed criminal justice is to convict the guilty and free the innocent.” NOVENA TO THE BLESSED VIRGIN. Oh, most beautiful that another man, Jack Pearcy, killed the victim and was duly “Before the court now is a case in which the guilty — Pearcy flower of Mt. Carmel, fruitful vine, splendor of Heaven, convicted of the offense,” the brief said, while Dailey was “con- — has been convicted, serving a life term in prison for his Blessed Mother of the Son of God, Immaculate Virgin, assist victed on the basis of testimony of three jailhouse informants, heinous crime,” the USCCB brief said. “It remains for the me in my necessity. Oh Star of the Sea, help me and show me who each had every incentive to lie.” court to insist that the criminal justice system perform the sec- here you are my Mother. Oh Holy Mary, Mother of God, Queen Evidence of innocence includes “a sworn affidavit by ond part of its task: free the innocent after affording Mr. Dailey of Heaven and Earth. I humbly beseech you from the bottom Pearcy wholly exonerating” Dailey, the brief said. “Viewed a new trial.” of my heart to succor me in my necessity (make your request). together, and in combination with the meager and suspect evi- There are none that can withstand your power. Oh Mary, Pray dence that was presented for us who have recourse to Thee, (three times). Holy Mary, I against him at trial, the post- place this prayer in your hands. (three times). M.B. conviction evidence estab- lishes the very real prospect that Mr. Dailey is innocent. Yet, the Florida Office of the 26 January 24, 2020 Messenger ENTERTAINMENT

“Spies in Disguise” (Fox) In this animated comic “Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker” (Disney) a vast space fleet capable of crushing all opposition, adventure, a superspy (voice of Will Smith) and a tech Battles both physical and spiritual play out in this ninth, General Leia (the late Carrie Fisher), commander of the geek (voice of Tom Holland) team up to fight an interna- and officially final, installment in the main body of the Resistance, dispatches her ablest follower, Rey (Daisy tional group of villains (the most prominent voiced by Ben blockbuster franchise. With the evil First Order rebrand- Ridley), to locate the enemy’s secret base. Rey is aided by Mendelsohn). But ing themselves the Final Order as they prepare to launch ex-stormtrooper-turned-Resistance-fighter Finn (John their mission is com- Boyega) and by hotshot pilot Poe (Oscar Isaac). But Kylo Movie plicated by the fact Ren (Adam Driver), now the Order’s supreme leader, is Capsule that one of the lab convinced that he can draw Rey over to the Dark Side to whiz’s experiments For full reviews of each of these films — go to catholic- which he, once the good Ben Solo, long ago surrendered has gone awry, trans- himself. While the status of the saga’s trademark Force news.com and click on “Extras,” then choose “Movies.” forming the agent remains ambivalent from a Christian perspective, lessons into a small blue pigeon. The pace is rapid while the prem- Catholic News Service (CNS) classifications about making moral choices, rejecting temptation and the ise is vapid, but small children are unlikely to mind. are: power of forgiveness and redemption are clear. Although it Directors Nick Bruno and Troy Quane, working from a feels less substantive than the previous chapter, director screenplay by Brad Copeland and Lloyd Taylor, somehow • A-I — general patronage; and co-writer J.J. Abrams’ sci-fi epic certainly has specta- manage to let learning take place, too, even if that means • A-II — adults and adolescents; cle to spare as well as some touching moments. Probably occasional lessons in pigeon ingestion. Some intense acceptable for older teens. Much stylized combat violence • A-III — adults; action sequences and digestion-themed dialogue. The with minimal gore, a same-sex kiss, a couple of mild oaths, Catholic News Service classification is A-II – adults and • L — limited adult audience; at least one crass term. The Catholic News Service classi- adolescents. The Motion Picture Association rating is PG • O — morally offensive. fication is A-III — adults. The Motion Picture Association — parental guidance suggested. Some material may not be rating is PG-13 — parents strongly cautioned. Some mate- suitable for children. rial may be inappropriate for children under 13.

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National/World posed rules would eliminate burdensome Obama-era requirements resident. He had hoped to live out his days in his tiny single room that unfairly imposed unique regulatory burdens only on religious with a connecting office where he has written over 40 books. Few organizations,” he said. Among those requirements faith-based people have been behind the tall brick walls and iron gates of the Pope urges bishops to teach discern- service providers have had to give notice they are religiously affili- monastery, which covers nine acres in the Memphis neighborhood ated and must make available a list of alternative secular service of Frayser. A group of nuns there has been quietly praying for the ment, including on political issues providers. He made the comments on the proposed rules during an city and its people since 1932. But now, with only four nuns VATICAN CITY — Sometimes the political choices people face Oval Office event on National Religious Freedom Day after he remaining, the monastery has closed. In May 2018, the Vatican can seem like a choice between supporting a “snake” or support- announced new guidance on prayer in public schools. issued guidelines that all contemplative communities, Catholic ing a “dragon,” but Pope Francis told a group of U.S. bishops their communities established ostensibly for continuous prayer, need to job is to step back from partisan politics and help their faithful Judge blocks Trump’s order on state have at least seven members. The last four Poor Clares in discern based on values, said Cardinal Daniel N. DiNardo of Memphis sought out ways to continue their vocation, joining Galveston-Houston. Meeting the bishops of Texas, Oklahoma and refugee resettlement other Poor Clare communities around the country. Sister Anthony Arkansas Jan. 20, Pope Francis mentioned how, in an election, WASHINGTON — A federal judge in Maryland issued a prelim- went to join the Poor Clares in Cincinnati, as did Sister Alma “you sometimes seem to be caught, you know, are you going to inary injunction Jan. 15 blocking the Trump administration from months earlier. Sister Marguerite and Sister Claudia went to live vote in one sense for a snake or you going to vote for a dragon?” enforcing an executive order that would allow state and local gov- with the Poor Clares in Travelers Rest, South Carolina. There are Cardinal DiNardo said. The pope’s advice to the bishops was ernment officials to reject resettling refugees in their jurisdic- about 20,000 Poor Clares worldwide; officially they are members of “teach your people discernment by you stepping back from the tions. The judge ruled in favor of the plaintiffs, three faith-based the Order of St. Clare. sheer politics of it” and focus on the values at stake, Cardinal resettlement agencies — HIAS, a Jewish organization; Church DiNardo told Catholic News Service. “If you try to step back and World Service; and Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service — President Trump issues new guidance say, ‘but here are the major moral issues that we face,’ that’s what who said their work would be directly impacted and harmed by is most important.” The region’s 26 bishops, including auxiliaries the order. In his 31-page decision, U.S. District Judge Peter on prayer in public schools and retired bishops, spent about two-and-a-half hours talking with Messitte said the executive order could be seen as unlawful WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump announced his Pope Francis in English and Spanish. The pope responded in because it grants states and localities veto power that “flies in the administration’s new guidance on prayer in public schools during Italian so his aide could translate the responses into English. The face of clear congressional intent.” The judge also called for a Jan. 16 event in the Oval Office on National Religious Freedom topics were wide-ranging and included the clerical sexual abuse refugee resettlement to “go forward as it developed for the almost Day. Primarily, it will require states to report cases where public crisis, migration, the challenges of a media-permeated culture and 40 years” prior to President Donald Trump’s executive order, school students have been denied their right to pray. Ahead of the forming Christian consciences, especially in a time of deep politi- announced last September. Ashley Feasley, director of policy for event, which was delayed from a 2 p.m. (EST) start to around 4 cal divisions. Migration and Refugee Services of the U.S. Conference of Catholic p.m., material about it was provided to reporters in a background Bishops, echoed this sentiment, telling Catholic News Service that briefing the morning of Jan. 16. In a separate proposed rule, the Trump aims to ‘even playing field’ “refugee resettlement will continue as it has before” based on administration aims to protect the rights of religious student available resources and family connections. But she also acknowl- groups at public universities, giving them equal treatment with for faith-based groups seeking grants edged that the refugee resettlement process has taken a hit. secular student groups. For schools to receive federal funding, WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump said Jan. 16 his “Everything is in flux,” she said just after the injunction was they will need to certify once a year with state education depart- administration is issuing nine proposed rules to ensure the issued, and she pointed out it would likely be appealed by the ments that they do not have policies in place that would prevent nation’s faith-based service providers and organizations are not Trump administration. students from constitutionally protected prayer, a senior adminis- discriminated against by federal agencies’ regulations or in their tration official said. State departments of education also would grant-making processes because of religion. The agencies affected Poor Clares’ contemplative monastery have to report to the U.S. Department of Education each year with include Veterans Affairs, Health and Human Services, Labor, a list of local school boards that failed to make the required certi- Agriculture, Education, Justice, Homeland Security, and in Tennessee quietly closes fication as well as complaints made to that department about a International Development. Trump said his administration “is MEMPHIS, Tenn. — As Christmas approached and 2019 came to local school board or school that has been accused of denying stu- committed to ensuring religious organizations can compete on a a close, the Monastery of St. Clare in Tennessee quietly closed. An dents or teachers their right to engage in constitutionally protect- level playing field for funding, without discrimination. The pro- 88-year-old priest, Father David Knight, was the last remaining ed prayer.