Making the acquain- tance of John the Baptist dur- The Catholic Moment ing Advent, Page 13 Serving the Diocese of Lafayette-in-Indiana Volume 74, Number 45 December 16, 2018

Pope Francis Airline carriers Emirates, Etihad, to make Flydubai and Air Arabia perform by historic visit flying over Sheikh Zayed Mosque to celebrate the United to Arabian Arab Emirates’ 47th National Day, in Abu Peninsula Dhabi Dec. 2. Pope Francis is sched- By Junno Arocho Esteves uled to visit the Catholic News Service United Arab Emi- rates Feb. 3-5. (CNS VATICAN CITY (CNS) — photo/Ali Haider, Pope Francis will visit the EPA) United Arab Emirates next year, becoming the first pope to visit the Arabian Peninsula, the Vatican announced. In a Dec. 6 statement, the Vatican said the pope will “participate in the Inter- national Interfaith Meeting on ‘Human Fraternity’” after receiv- A priest for 28 years, Father Kroeger dies at 63 ing an invi- tation by Pope Francis Sheikh By Gabby Hlavek every day around 11 a.m. at was the funeral director. Mohammed bin Zayed Al- The Catholic Moment his home since he got sick. It Growing up in the funeral Nahyan, crown prince of has kept him in such good business was a valuable Abu Dhabi. LEBANON — Father spirits to see so many people preparatory course for the “The visit will take place Timothy D. Kroeger, 63, a and visit with them. His priesthood because of the also in response to the invi- priest in the Diocese of ministry was always most emphasis on caregiving, tation of the Catholic Lafayette-in-Indiana for important.” dealing with people, and Church in the United Arab more than 20 years, died on Born on Aug. 7, 1955, Tim- meeting them where they Emirates,” the Vatican said. Dec. 9. othy Kroeger was a native of were, he said in a previous The trip Feb. 3-5 will take “He was such a good northcentral Indiana and interview with The Catholic place less than a week after man. He cared so much attended Logansport High Moment. about everyone,” said Karen School. Father Kroeger eventually (Continued on Page 7) Metzger, a longtime parish- He went on to Loyola entered the seminary in ioner and friend of Father University in Chicago and 1983. “I always felt the call,” Kroeger. “I was just remi- came back to work for sever- he said. niscing about his love of the al years in his family’s funer- Father Timothy Kroeger Mass. He’s been saying Mass al home, where his father (Continued on Page 6) 46 years a priest, Father Haslinger dies at 74

By Gabby Hlavek A native of Fremont, he first year as a priest at the The Catholic Moment attended St. Joseph’s grade Church of the Blessed Sacra- and high schools in Ohio, ment in West Lafayette, CLEVELAND, Ohio — and then went on to receive where he served as associate Father Philip S. Haslinger, his bachelor’s degree from pastor. 74, died Dec. 3 at the Cleve- St. Mary’s College in Ken- In 1973, he was appointed land Clinic after serving the tucky. diocesan director for reli- Diocese of Lafayette-in-Indi- Father Haslinger attended gious education, which at ana for 46 years. seminary in Indianapolis that time was located in A funeral Mass was cele- and was ordained a priest of Kokomo. While there, he brated on Dec. 10 at St. the Lafayette diocese on filled in as chaplain at St. Joseph Church in Fremont, May 27, 1972, by Bishop Joseph’s Hospital and ulti- Ohio. Raymond Gallagher at the mately became full-time Philip Haslinger was born Cathedral of St. Mary of the chaplain in 1977. to Paul E. and Jane L. Immaculate Conception in “You were there to try to Haslinger on Nov. 22, 1944, Lafayette. the second of four children. Father Haslinger spent his (Continued on Page 3) Father Philip Haslinger Page 2 The Catholic Moment December 16, 2018

The Benton County Sisters of grega- Catholic School Educa- PEOPLE & Provi- tion.” The tional Trust (BCCSET) dence. recent invites those in need of an PLACES Sister commit- end-of-the-year tax Susan ment cere- deductible contribution to Paweski, mony consider making a dona- co-director brought December 16 tion to the trust. The trust of the the total of Third Sunday Provi- Provi- fund is in place to help of Advent financially support dence Carri Starletta dence Cycle C Readings: Catholic education for Ben- BCCSET, P.O. Box 25, Associ- O’Donnell Schipp Associates ton County children, with Fowler, IN 47944 or go to ates, said to more an annual fund distribu- the Web site at in order to become an asso- than 270. This year, 19 1) Zephaniah 3:14-18a tion to Sacred Heart School bentoncatholictrust.org to ciate, a candidate is paired women and men began 2) Philippians 4:4-7 in Fowler as well as to reli- make a contribution online. with a Sister of Providence their journeys as 3) Gospel: Luke 3:10-18 gion education programs or Providence Associate candidate-associates. The at St. Mary Parish in Dun- Two residents who live in companion and then goes associate relationship is Monday, Dec. 17 through a year of study, open to all people of faith, nington, Sacred Heart the Diocese of Lafayette-in- 1) Genesis 49:2, 8-10 Parish in Fowler, St. John Indiana recently deepened prayer and reflection. ages 18 and older. To learn 2) Gospel: Matthew 1:1-17 the Baptist Parish in Earl their relationship with the “They both commit to more, visit the Web site at Park, St. Patrick Parish in Sisters of Providence of praying and meeting on a ProvidenceAssociates.org Tuesday, Dec. 18 Oxford and St. Charles Saint Mary-of-the-Woods. regular basis to unfold the or contact co-director 1) Jeremiah 23:5-8 Parish in Otterbein. Estab- Westfield resident Carri mission and ministry of the Debbie Dillow at 317-250- lished in 1993, the trust is O’Donnell and Middle- Sisters of Providence,” Sis- 3294 or by e-mail at 2) Gospel: Matthew 1:18- managed by a 15-member town resident Starletta ter Susan said. “A binder [email protected] or 25 board from all five Benton Schipp joined 21 others as of materials, the Spiritual Sister Susan at 312-909- County parishes. Dona- they made the commit- Integration Units, provides 7492 or by e-mail at Wednesday, Dec. 19 tions may be made payable ment to become Provi- the background, spirituali- [email protected]. 1) Judges 13:2-7, 24-25a to BCCSET and sent to: dence Associates with the ty and mission of the con- 2) Gospel: Luke 1:5-25 St. Nicholas Thursday, Dec. 20 1) Isaiah 7:10-14 recently visit- 2) Gospel: Luke 1:26-38 ed faith formation Friday, Dec. 21 classes at St. 1) Song of Songs 2:8-14 or Charles Bor- Zephaniah 3:14-18a romeo Parish 2) Gospel: Luke 1:39-45 in Peru. At left are students Saturday, Dec. 22 in pre-kinder- 1) 1 Samuel 1:24-28 garten 2) Gospel: Luke 1:46-56 through sixth- grade classes, The texts of Scripture standing on readings for the Mass the front for every day of the school stairs. week are linked to the At right is diocesan Web site at pastor Father www.dol-in.org. Adam Mauman with St. Nicholas. (Photos The Catholic Moment provided) USPS 403-610 ISSN 1087-2604 PUBLISHER: Most Rev. Timothy L. Doherty

EDITOR: Gabby Hlavek

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Postmaster: Send address changes to: The Catholic Moment Change of address? You. P.O. Box 1603, Lafayette, IN 47902 Send it to us at [email protected]! Member of Catholic Press Association PLEASE JOIN US ON SUNDAY! © 2018 The Catholic Moment December 16, 2018 The Catholic Moment Page 3 Prophet Ezekiel explored the nature of sin against God

uring the Advent tive offense against God. sonal guilt could not be we rebel against God as did season, we are con- Everyone belonging to the transferred to parents, chil- the Chosen People before D scious of the coming A Moment tribes of Israel, from the king dren or the king. This their exile. of Jesus, but also of human to the peasant, was responsi- responsibility could not be Like the Jewish people in sins which occasioned his with ble for multiple sins against dissolved in the multitude of Ezekiel’s time, we are in Incarnation. Before Jesus Monsignor God. In effect, this meant the whole nation. It had to be exile from our heavenly came as God become man to that they felt that no one was assumed by individuals. homeland in this world. We save us from sin, it is impor- personally responsible. This Ezekiel reminded the peo- need to accept retribution for tant to realize precisely what BY MSGR. JOHN DUNCAN common guilt was some- ple that their exile from their our sins, replace these sins sin is. For this purpose, it is what like our national debt homeland of Israel and the with virtues by the merciful good for us to explore the today. Our debt is owed to reduction of their worship of grace of God and worship in inspired Hebrew Bible writ- Israel, yet he lived in exile in faceless creditors by every God without sacrifices were true sincerity and repen- ings of the prophet Ezekiel. Babylon. This exile was a citizen, from our president to punishments for serious, tance. We know very little about discipline from God for his a newly born child. Howev- personal transgressions. He Every Catholic parish has the origins of this man. In people who had sinned er, our debt is so huge that also predicted that the pagan at least one confessional for many respects he was a per- against him. Ezekiel was no one can pay for it. There- nations which were merci- the forgiveness of sins. We son of contradictions. For called to explore the nature fore, no one assumes respon- lessly persecuting them begin each Mass with an example, he was a priest of of sin against God. As we sibility for this crushing would themselves be pun- admission of individual the Old Testament lineage of prepare for the second com- indebtedness. ished. He promised that the guilt. This is very much in Levi. However, the Jeru- ing of Jesus at the world’s Ezekiel as a prophet spoke people would be restored to the spirit and tradition of salem temple of God had end, it is important that we to God’s people in the name their homeland and would Ezekiel. been destroyed by the Baby- make this same exploration. of God. He forcefully again worship God in an lonians. As a result, he was Previous to their exile in reminded them that they appropriate manner. Msgr. John Duncan has been unable to function as a priest Babylon — modern day Iraq were individually, as per- As Catholic Christians, a priest of the Lafayette diocese in offering sacrifice. He was — the Chosen People had sons with free will, responsi- we must recognize our own for more than 58 years. a member of God’s people of looked upon sin as a collec- ble for their own sins. Per- sins. As individual believers, Father Haslinger remembered for kindness, calm presence

(Continued from Page 1) provided spiritual small faith sharing opportu- care and a sense of nities for all age groups,” help these folks. It really did- belonging for those Ferrucci said. “He worked n’t matter if you were who were ill.” closely with our St. Ann’s Catholic and they were Pres- Melissa Crowley, group, which is a group of byterian. It really helped me a parishioner of St. mature adults that provide to grow a lot. Each case was Louis de Montfort, many services for the entire so different. It was a good also worked with parish ... he had a positive time in my life,” Father Father Haslinger. influence on the community. Haslinger said regarding his “He brought a He seemed to have a passion time as chaplain, in a previ- sense of civility and for helping those who need- ous interview with The Sun- grace to parish and ed support.” day Visitor in 1991. school committee Christopher Palabrica In 1984, he was named meetings, no matter worked on the Stewardship pastor of Our Lady of Grace how sensitive the and Parish Council with Parish in Noblesville, serv- issue being dis- Father Haslinger. ing as the first diocesan pas- cussed and debat- “He had a great sense of tor of the parish. ed,” she said. “He humor,” Palabrica said. In July 1985, he moved to was a good facilita- “After he left SLDM, we St. Mary Parish in Alexan- Father Haslinger poses for a photo with first communicants at St. tor by teaching us remained in contact and dria where he spent nearly Mary Parish in Alexandria in this 2011 photo. how to disagree often had breakfast. He was 15 years as pastor. One of his without being dis- very interested in my family biggest achievements while In 1999, Father Haslinger associate pastor at St. Louis agreeable. and how everyone was at St. Mary’s was the build- became pastor at St. Charles de Montfort Parish in Fish- “I will always remember doing. His homilies were ing of a new school struc- Borromeo Parish, Peru, and ers. his calm presence (and that often thought provoking and ture. At the time, it was the a year later, while maintain- Maggie Berger previously he) was a patient listener challenged us to be good only entirely new Catholic ing his duties at St. Charles, worked in the St. Louis de and genuinely kind man.” Catholics.” school building to be built in became the dean of the Montfort parish office with Julie Ferrucci also worked Father Haslinger was northcentral Indiana since Logansport Deanery. Father Haslinger. with Father Haslinger at St. granted retirement in 2010 the early 1960s. “Even through the chal- “Even after he left SLDM, Louis de Montfort Parish. and spent the last several Msgr. Robert L. Sell, pas- lenging situations that our family kept in touch “We were very fond of years back in his hometown tor of St. Ambrose and St. Father Phil encountered, he with him,” she said. “He Father Phil. He was kind to of Fremont, Ohio. Mary parishes in Anderson would try to ask himself went out of his way to visit all of us from the moment Msgr. Sell spoke of Father and former vicar general for ‘What would Jesus do?’ That my grandmother when she we first met him,” she said. Haslinger’s compassion for the Diocese of Lafayette-in- was a driving principle for was in a nursing home and “My husband, Steve, people everywhere he Indiana, said, “Father his ministry,” said Msgr. Sell. even fed her ice cream when worked closely with Father served. Haslinger had a dedication Two years later, Father he visited. She didn’t know Phil on some committees “His application of the to the welfare of the children Haslinger was named pastor too many people at that and I did some volunteer Scripture to his daily life and and wanted the best form of at All Saints Parish in time, but she always knew work at the parish ...” the overall care he showed, Catholic education provided Logansport and in 2004 he him. He presided at her Father Haslinger was also made him a good shepherd to them. He worked to estab- became associate pastor at funeral, and for this my fam- a big proponent of the com- to all those entrusted to lish a curriculum and staff St. Alphonsus Liguori Parish ily will always be grateful.” munity during his time in him.” conducive to the learning in Zionsville. Msgr. Sell added, “Father Fishers and worked to build May he rest in peace. and enjoyment of the chil- Father Haslinger’s last Phil had a very keen sense of the parish community. dren.” assignment was in 2006 as care for the sick. He always “He enjoyed organizing Page 4 The Catholic Moment December 16, 2018

Above: New video screens are in place in the church. At left are attendees at the 2018 Divine Renovation conference, including: front from left, Caleb Schultz, Missy Krockover, Katie Pechin, Brooke Folk- ers and Susana Venis; back from left, Chad Krockover, Sean O’Dea, Dan McCarty, Deacon Will Summerlin and Father Ted Dudzinski. Impact of ‘Divine Renovation’ grows at West Lafayette parish

By Sandi Patel parishes are real. Our experi- using music at Alpha, and for youth and young For The Catholic Moment ences are no different. The Divine retreats throughout the year. adults.” “Sometimes staff and Renovation model’s I want to invite people into Looking to the future, WEST LAFAYETTE — parishioners are not inspired musical prayer, so they Missy Krockover, executive The Church of the Blessed to embrace a more dynamic 10 values know how much God loves director of parish life and Sacrament has been study- relationship with the person them,” he says. administration, sees a vari- ing Father James Mallon’s of Jesus or the mission of his The Divine Renovation Alpha is one program ety of opportunities to con- book “Divine Renovation: Church and so they move model outlines 10 values centered on developing tinue their transformation as Bringing Your Parish from on; this is both disappoint- shared by healthy, growing meaningful community, as a parish. “The newly opened Maintenance to Mission” ing and sad,” he said. “Yet, churches who want to well as forming small com- Adoration Chapel is a great since August 2015. others are so inspired they rethink parish life and munities. first step for all future goals; The parish staff and pas- strengthen my (our parish’s) become assemblies of Sean O’Dea, pastoral we hope to inspire a founda- toral council read the book resolve to live into Christ’s disciples of Jesus. assistant for evangelization tion of prayer, trust and together and discerned how mission. The bottom line is • Giving priority to the and youth, says, “Alpha is thanksgiving for the gift of its 10 guiding values could this: Divine Renovation hap- weekend; our culture-changing oppor- God, our Creator, and Jesus, be implemented at the pens at God’s pace.” • Hospitality; tunity that focuses greatly on his Son.” parish. They held a Vision The parish staff and pas- • Uplifting music; relationships with Jesus, one According to Missy Day in April 2016 where toral council have been hard • Homilies; another in small groups, and Krockover, they are also more than 100 engaged min- at work trying to implement • Meaningful community; with God the Father.” planning a Leadership Sum- istry disciples came to share all 10 values of the Divine • Clear expectations; The first goal of Alpha is mit. “We want to invest in to create a warm, welcom- our disciples (leaders in lay in the vision of Divine Reno- Renovation program at the • Strengths-based ministry; vation. And in June 2018, Church of the Blessed Sacra- ing, non-threatening envi- ministry) with presenters • Formation of small com- team leaders of the parish ment. ronment that invites people who clarify the mission, munities; attended the Divine Renova- For example, the Senior from all walks of life to vision and purpose for ‘why’ tion conference (DR18) in Leadership Team meets reg- • Experience of the Holy encounter Christ. It is a fresh we do what we do at Church Halifax, Nova Scotia, Cana- ularly to intentionally con- Spirit; and way to explore the Gospel of the Blessed Sacrament.” da, to learn more about how nect the readings, Gospel • Become an inviting that is non-denominational. O’Dea hopes to create an to breathe new life into their and music to one another church. By the end of the 10-week “Ananias Training Pro- parish. with a Sunday messaging program, a sense of commu- gram,” a 1:1 mentorship that Now, it’s amazing to see theme. welcomed.” He believes that nity has grown, and many will allow more spiritually how all of that work has Susana Venis, a pastoral using sacred imagery con- are led to a personal relation- developed parishioners to paid off. council member, believes nected to the Mass theme ship with Christ. meet with new parishioners, Father Theodore Dudzin- that the addition of technolo- enhances the worship expe- From the Alpha experi- or those looking for further ski, pastor of the Church of gy and video screens in the rience. ence, people may join the spiritual development. the Blessed Sacrament and church has allowed mem- Uplifting music is another Alpha Team to take the pro- Venis would like to find vicar general of the Diocese bers to participate more in one of the Divine Renova- gram forward for the next ways to involve more His- of Lafayette-in-Indiana, the Mass, whether they are tion values that is evident group of participants. Their panics in the Church, and reflected on the past six Catholic or not. during the Mass. relationship with God flour- Katie Pechin, pastoral assis- months and the time his “Including music and Caleb Schultz, pastoral ishes as they are involved tant for mission and disci- team spent at the June con- lyrics, words to the readings assistant for music and wor- with more prayer and deep- pleship, hopes “for full pews ference. “I know it was a and Gospel, and Mass parts ship, shared the importance er relationships with others of joyful parishioners who great opportunity for the with more contemporary of inviting people into through service. are missionary disciples.” staff to hear live witnesses of music has motivated many prayer through music. O’Dea adds, “I constantly Missy Krockover sums it churches transitioning from to feel the pleasure and joy “In my area in particular, I go back to the presentations up best: “The power of an maintenance to mission of celebrating the Eucharist love seeing continual growth we heard at DR18. It helped invitation can lead to a per- mode.” at Blessed Sacrament,” she by helping to bring the con- me set our ministries on the sonal encounter with Jesus Father Dudzinski adds, says. gregation into worship right foot as we bring new and a lifetime of hope, peace, “The challenges and success- Chad Krockover agrees. through our music ministry, life to our parish through the joy and love.” es and the spiritual battles of “By embracing technology, particularly through our use creation and development of allowing the Holy Spirit people come into worship of different types of music at Connect Groups, Beta room to transform lives and where they are and all feel the different Masses, and Nights, and the new Alphas December 16, 2018 The Catholic Moment Page 5

Guest column ‘Divine Renovation’ values come alive in firsthand experience

By Sandi Patel For The Catholic Moment

Having followed the Church of the Blessed Sacra- ment for the past six months on its commitment to the Divine Renovation model, I attended a weekend Mass to experience the ongoing transformation firsthand. As the liturgy began, Father Ted Dudzinski, pas- tor of the parish and vicar general of the Diocese of Lafayette-in-Indiana, invited those attending to introduce themselves to someone they didn’t know and ask them for a prayer intention to offer Participants in the fall 2018 Alpha (Photos provided) for them during Mass and the week ahead. ence. They met the parish- Every parish staff member, with a song; the lyrics are screen. Bart walked over from ioners at St. Benedict Parish, all present on Sunday morn- projected on the screen so Additional youth and the other heard their stories, and con- ings, greeted me as he or she people may join in as they young adult Alphas, the end of my nected with faithful from all walked by. In a few brief enter. Krockover leads the opening of the new Adora- pew, open- over the world who share moments, I was no longer a families in a closing prayer tion Chapel and prayer part- ing himself this missional vision of stranger, but a welcomed as she thanks them for ners add to the commitment to enter a bringing souls to Christ. guest. attending. There is a strong that the Church of the relationship Missy Krockover, execu- When I asked what a visi- sense of community as fami- Blessed Sacrament has to fol- with me. In tive director of parish life tor to the parish would lies either leave for home or lowing the Divine Renova- that and administration at notice, Susana Venis, pas- prepare for Mass. tion model. moment, I Blessed Sacrament Parish, toral council member, told Uplifting music, homilies Making introductions to Sandi Patel understood reflected to me, “I continue me, “A person who comes to and becoming an inviting people in the pews, like Bart the reality to visualize the energy and our church enters a large church are three Divine Ren- at the beginning of my Mass of the Divine Renovation commitment of St. Benedict family where everyone ovation values that were experience, is no longer a model and all I learned from parishioners who are lead- offers talents to serve.” obvious to me within the foreign concept to parish- the parish staff at Blessed ing and investing their time, Katie Pechin, pastoral Mass. ioners. Sacrament. talent and treasure into invit- assistant for mission and dis- The music, Sunday mes- Brooke Folkers, a pastoral The model outlines 10 val- ing others into the life of the cipleship, added, “We want sage and homily are connect- council member, told me, “I ues shared by healthy, grow- parish. They share ‘who people to feel loved, and a ed by a theme each Sunday. think we are starting to ing churches who want to Jesus is’ with those they part of us.” On this particular Sunday, become more comfortable rethink parish life and encounter.” It is safe to say that they the last of the liturgical year, introducing ourselves to one become assemblies of disci- My first impressions came have the value of hospitality the theme was the end of another and actually asking ples of Jesus. (See Page 4.) on the walls of the gathering embedded into their com- time. for prayer from our fellow As Father James Mallon space and connecting hall- munity. In his homily, Father parishioners. To be able to writes about each value in ways. Much like a home, Family-based faith forma- Dudzinski tied the topic share the joys and struggles his book “Divine Renova- they are adorned with pic- tion is just one program from family faith formation of another person definitely tion: Bringing Your Parish tures of the parish family introduced to build mean- to the Gospel reading and helps to develop communi- from Maintenance to Mis- engaging in the life of the ingful community. I wit- then gave three specific ty.” sion,” he gives examples of parish. From education ses- nessed this in session with lessons to reflect on during I agree. When I shared his experience at St. Benedict sions to socials, the pastor, children in their individual the coming week. what was in my heart with Parish in Nova Scotia, Cana- parish staff members and classes and parents gathered It was also clear to me that my prayer partner at the da. parishioners are shown smil- in a large meeting room. the addition of technology start of Mass and he with The team from the Church ing and engaging in the The morning schedule is and video screens in the me, I experienced hospitali- of the Blessed Sacrament activities that bring the fami- intentionally set to allow for church helps members ty, meaningful community traveled to Nova Scotia in ly together. It reflects the joy focused time on both wor- actively participate in the and the Holy Spirit, working June to experience the 2018 of belonging. ship and catechesis, with Mass. Whether people through him. It felt welcom- Divine Renovation confer- Then, the greetings began. Mass either before or after belong to the parish, are vis- ing and, when Father faith formation. iting for the weekend or Dudzinski offered an inter- According to Pechin, this looking for a new church cession for the needs of our program, introduced in Sep- home, the screens invite prayer partners, it became tember, provides catechesis everyone into the liturgy. powerful! for both parents and chil- A beautiful image of Jesus The model of Divine Ren- dren on the same topic at standing with his apostles ovation and the outcome of age-appropriate levels. on the Mount of Olives look- the 2018 conference is defi- “The benefit of this type ing out over the Kidron Val- nitely transforming the of programming is that par- ley at the beautiful temple parish family at the Church ents engage with each other that was soon to be of the Blessed Sacrament. as well as with their chil- destroyed made it easy for dren,” she said. As the indi- me to imagine myself in that Sandi Patel is the Lilly vidual sessions conclude, scene during the homily. Endowment Inc grant project parents and children are I enjoyed being able to coordinator for the Diocese of reunited in the sanctuary. sing the songs with my eyes Lafayette-in-Indiana. She lives There, musicians provide lifted toward the altar to see in Indianapolis with her hus- Family-based faith formation a prayerful environment the words projected on the band and son. Page 6 The Catholic Moment December 16, 2018 ‘He was a pastor with a very loving heart for his people’

(Continued from Page 1) incredibly inspiring,” Josh ‘Just tell me what to do, Frost said. “He was a great Lord!’ “I have long considered man with a very warm and “Now I think it is better to Father Tim Kroeger to be a inviting personality. listen for the guidance the special gift. I say that “My wife and I both grew Lord is providing through because even though he was up in households with the intercession of the Holy a native of Logansport, he strong parish ties. When our Spirit on a daily basis. I wit- was ordained in 1990 by family started to grow, our nessed a miracle at Lourdes. Bishop John Myers, bishop parish life grew in impor- The healing waters of Lour- of Peoria, for the Francis- tance to us and our family. des does not always involve cans,” said Bishop Emeritus As we spent more time casting the crutches aside, it William L. Higi. investing in our parish com- is sometimes the renewal of Father Kroeger was munity, we got to know spirit and the awareness that ordained a Franciscan priest Father Tim better and we are not alone. God is with on Sept. 29, 1990, in Peoria. allowed him to know us. us as he promised,” he said. He said he was drawn to the Father Tim baptized most of And while Father Kroeger Franciscan community’s our children and celebrated may not have experienced a devotion to living, praying almost all of their first sacra- miraculous physical healing, and dining together. ments. He provided spiritual he had a renewed sense of His study and work guidance and support. purpose for his ministry assignments took him to Father Tim was a very dear upon his return. Chicago, Peoria, Detroit, friend to me.” “We saw a real difference Staten Island, N.Y., and Frost even traveled in Father since he returned Albany, N.Y., but he eventu- recently with Father Kroeger from his trip to Lourdes ... so ally felt the desire to be and his brother, Paul many graces came from that grounded in a parish. Kroeger, to Lourdes. trip,” said Metzger. After much prayer and Father Hellmann recalled “It was a very spiritual discussion, Father Kroeger Father Kroeger talking of the experience for him and he spoke with Bishop Higi In late 2015, Father Kroeger began experiencing symp- trip. “It was his lifetime felt in a powerful way the about becoming a diocesan toms of Parkinson’s disease. Ultimately, the disease led desire to go to Lourdes. presence of Mary. He felt his priest. to his retirement from St. Joseph Parish, Lebanon, earlier When I talked with him whole body was enveloped “In 1995, Father Kroeger this year. Above is Father Kroeger in his home in about it beforehand, he said in closeness with God,” said felt God was calling him Lebanon this fall. (File photos by Kevin Cullen) ‘The only reason I want to go Father Hellmann. home to our diocese,” Bish- there is because I want to “He was a deep thinker. op Higi said. “All the neces- named pastor in Lebanon. He was a pastor with a very know God’s will for me. And He never had to write any- sary steps were taken to At the time, Father loving heart for his people,” I want to surrender myself thing out. He was so intellec- make that possible and he Kroeger said “it was God’s Father Hellmann said. totally to God’s will.’” tual and his ministry was accepted assignment to St. providence” to be allowed to In late 2015, Father “To take the path to the more important than going Joan of Arc Parish, Kokomo. return to his home diocese, Kroeger began experiencing grotto is to go into another to his own therapy,” Metzger Three years later (in 1998), where he was able to spend symptoms of Parkinson’s world,” Father Kroeger said said. “And towards the end, he was incardinated as a time with his father, step- disease. The progressive, in an interview after the trip. every homily that he ever priest of this diocese. What a mother and other relatives. incurable disease made him He saw the visit to Lourdes gave, especially after he got gift.” Father Kroeger spent 13 weak, exhausted and unable as a dream fulfilled. “It was a sick, always involved the It was during this time years at St. Joseph Parish in to walk without a walker. great gift,” he said, to a place words forgiving, mercy, that his friendship with Lebanon as pastor. Ultimately, the disease led to filled with “the experience of charity and love in some Father David Hellmann, “He was a very spiritual his retirement from St. the love of God.” way. then pastor of St. Joan of Arc man with a lot of insight into Joseph Parish earlier this “One of the most memo- “He was so gracious of Parish, really blossomed. people. Things were obvious year. rable parts of our trip to anything you did for him. I “I remember people com- to him that weren’t obvious “He never, ever com- Lourdes was the overt never left the house without ing up to us and saying, ‘The to others. He could read peo- plained about his disease. awareness of the presence of him saying thank you. He two of you actually seem like ple very well,” said Father Father always had a way to the Holy Spirit,” Frost said. was such a good person. He you like each other. We’ve Hellmann. “He could also make you feel good no mat- “At every turn, God was cared so much for those in never really experienced two identify gifts within people ter the situation. He would with us. It sometimes his ministry and always saw priests who worked together and help them use their gifts have the feelings of others seemed like it might be easi- things through all the way to as well as you two have,’” for the service of God. He before his own. Every time I er to have the burning bush the end.” Father Hellmann, now pas- was a good listener. There would leave his house I moment to know our plan. May he rest in peace. tor of St. Lawrence Parish in was such a bond between would feel good about help- Muncie, said with a laugh. “I the people of his parish and ing him and wanting to con- would tell them ‘Well, you him that was just very tinue doing so,” Reynolds know, we are friends!’ We strong.” said. had such a good respect for During his time in He assisted Father each other. We cared about Lebanon, Father Kroeger Kroeger with the Saturday each other.” helped the parish build a vigil Mass as his health In 1998, Father Kroeger new church. began to deteriorate. was named associate pastor “I will remember Father After his retirement, of St. Thomas Aquinas Tim as a great leader of our Reynolds and his mother, Parish, on the Purdue Uni- parish. His leadership Vickie, would help Father versity campus in West throughout the new building Kroeger finish dinner, take Lafayette. project was tremendous,” his medications and get into He became associate pas- said parishioner and friend bed. “We were glad to have tor of St. Louis de Montfort Michael Reynolds. the opportunity to help.” Parish, Fishers, in 1999, and “He listened to the people Parishioner Josh Frost, his served as pastor there from and their desire for a new wife, Lori, and their six chil- 2001-2005. church building. It was built dren have known “Father After a yearlong sabbati- to serve what the people Tim” for more than 10 years. cal at Catholic Theological desired. It wasn’t his church “He accepted the disease Father Kroeger with his brother Paul (left) and Josh Frost Union, Chicago, he was or his building, it was theirs. with graciousness. It was after the visit to Lourdes December 16, 2018 The Catholic Moment Page 7

Pope Francis to make historic trip to Arabian Peninsula

(Continued from Page 1) among the nations of the made to allow as many faith- God within the hearts of all and theology at Notre Dame world.” ful as possible “to participate people of goodwill.” University, said the trip is a Pope Francis returns from In a message published in this historic event.” Greg Burke, Vatican sign of Pope Francis’ “pro- his Jan. 23-28 visit to Panama on the visit’s official Web “Let us keep in mind that spokesman, said the theme found personal commitment for World Youth Day. site, Swiss Bishop Paul Hin- it will be the first visit of a was also a fitting description to interreligious dialogue.” Shortly after the der, apostolic vicar of South- pope to the Arabian Penin- of the purpose of the pope’s The trip to Abu Dhabi, he announcement, Sheikh ern Arabia, expressed his sula,” the bishop said. visit, which will focus on said, also “shows his appre- Mohammed bin Rashid Al- hope that the pope’s “short The Vatican also released “how all people of goodwill ciation for the increasing Maktoum, vice president visit will be a moment of the logo and the theme of the can work for peace.” openness there to the reli- and prime minister of the deepening our faith and our papal visit, “Make me a “This visit, like the one to gious freedom of non-Mus- United Arab Emirates, wel- adherence to the bishop of channel of your peace,” Egypt, shows the funda- lims, as witnessed by the comed the announcement of Rome.” which is inspired by St. Fran- mental importance the Holy presence of two Catholic the pope’s visit in a post on Although a detailed pro- cis of Assisi’s prayer for Father gives to interreli- churches in the Emirate.” his personal Facebook page. gram of the pope’s schedule peace. gious dialogue,” Burke said. Reynolds said the visit The visit, he said, “will “will be published before The theme, the Vatican “Pope Francis visiting the could “also raise the visibili- strengthen our ties and Christmas,” Bishop Hinder statement said, “expresses Arab world is a perfect ty of the problematic situa- understanding of each other, confirmed that Pope Francis our own prayer that the visit example of the culture of tion for religious freedom in enhance interfaith dialogue will celebrate a public Mass of Pope Francis to the United encounter.” neighboring Saudi Arabia.” and help us to work together in Abu Dhabi Feb. 5 and that Arab Emirates may spread Gabriel Said Reynolds, to maintain and build peace arrangements are being in a special way the peace of professor of Islamic studies

Around Indiana German Catholic tradition opens season in town of Ferdinand

By Katie Rutter munity rooted in Eichstatt, imaginative portrayal of the Catholic News Service Germany, arrived to teach Baby Jesus, the modern the local children in 1867. Christkindl is an angel who FERDINAND, Ind. (CNS) “I can’t imagine Ferdi- many European families still — The sights and sounds of nand without (the believe is the deliverer of Christmas brightened the monastery) and without the gifts at Christmas. massive dome of the nuns’ influence,” Hoppen- Ferdinand’s Christkindl is Monastery Immaculate Con- jans said. a close replica of the angel ception in Ferdinand as six “I think it’s because of the that opens the Nuremberg Sisters of St. Benedict rang monastery that we were able celebration. Dressed in a out “Silent Night” on hand to grow the way we did, the white, gold-trimmed gown bells. way the town did, and that and portrayed by Ferdinand The gentle chimes of the also kind of kept us with that native Hillary Cremeens, the season soothed the hun- German tradition,” she said. Christkindl emerged from dreds of people who gath- For Christkindlmarkt, the the monastery to the sound ered at the foot of the Ferdi- sisters supplied their event of trumpets and sang a wel- nand monastery during the hall as one of six locations coming message. cold Nov. 16 night, while the where vendors set up booths “Ye men and women folk, German tradition launched filled with crafts and other who once were children too, Christmas celebrations in the items. The nuns also offered be child again today, and do Indiana hamlet. tours of their monastery and rejoice when the Christ The Benedictines were sold baked goods, including Child invites you all to see heralding the opening of the German-inspired desserts this market,” she sang, recit- town’s Christkindlmarkt, a like “kuchen,” which is a ing a translated version of weekend of vendors, con- cinnamon or cranberry- Nuremberg’s Christkindl certs and Christmas cheer. topped cake, and springerle message. The sisters have bolstered and almerle cookies. Following the angel’s wel- Ferdinand’s tradition since “The springerle cookie is a come, the crowds were invit- the festivities began two Hillary Cremeens, a native of Ferdinand, Ind., portrays the traditional German cookie, it ed into the monastery for a decades ago. Christkindl, or Christmas angel, at the opening of the has a licorice flavor. We have German dinner and to visit “It’s a town celebration town’s Christkindlmarkt. (CNS photo/Katie Rutter) molds that some of our sis- the sisters’ table full of baked and the sisters are very ters brought back in the goods. much an integral part of the Europe — provided an penjans, the executive direc- 1920s,” said Sister Jean “The sisters are part of our town of Ferdinand,” said appropriate backdrop for the tor of Ferdinand Tourism Marie Ballard, the quality community. They share in a Sister Rose Wildeman, the weekend. and founder of the celebra- assurance manager for the lot of things, they’re monastery coordinator and Ferdinand city officials tion. religious order’s bakery. involved with the Chamber director of the hand-bell founded Christkindlmarkt “You see the church The evening of Nov. 16 — of Commerce, they’re choir. with the intent of transport- steeple in the center of the the Friday before the events involved with this About 10,000 people — ing attendees to Old World town and the village is kind officially began — the Christkindlmarkt event, more than four times the Germany. The event mimics of gathered around it and monastery also served as the they open their home and number of Ferdinand resi- a celebration by the same this huge beautiful focal point for Christkindl- their hearts to everyone,” dents — amassed into the name held in Nuremberg, monastery,” Hoppenjans markt Eve. The highlight of said Kathy Tretter, a native small town for its Germany, since the 16th cen- told Catholic News Service. the night, accented by the and member of the commit- Christkindlmarkt held Nov. tury. The German Catholic sisters’ hand bells and local tee that organizes 16-18. “Ferdinand has so many community was founded in choirs, is the moment that Christkindlmarkt. The monastery — its German characteristics 1840 by Father Joseph Kun- “Christkindl” emerged from “This is their home, and arched windows, turrets and about it. It looks like little dek, a missionary priest the monastery’s doors. their home is Ferdinand,” towers seeming to come Bavaria as you come in over from Croatia. The Bene- Plainly translated “Christ she said. straight out of medieval the hills,” said Diane Hop- dictines, their founding com- Child” and, at one time, an Page 8 The Catholic Moment December 16, 2018

Guest column St. Stephen among martyr feasts during octave of Christmas

By Deacon John Etter nesses to Christ’s love and enemy of the scholars. Contributing Writer passion. The dates of the During a dispute one day, Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish, Cicero feast days represent the mar- Stephen inflamed the hatred Ordained Sept. 14, 2013 tyr’s birth dates into eternal of the scholars so much that life, which is a time for joy. they found witnesses to tes- hristmas is supposed Christ who was in heaven tify that they heard him to be a season of joy was born onto earth so that speak words of blasphemy C and good tidings. So those of the earth might be against Moses and against why is the liturgical calendar able to be born into heaven. God. for the Christmas season Christ was born to die so So, Stephen was arrested peppered with the feasts of that those who unite their and dragged before the San- martyrs? deaths to his might hedrin, where he was Let’s take a be born again into accused of saying that “Jesus moment and look at eternal life. This is of Nazareth shall destroy all the martyr feasts why it is so fitting this place and shall change that are upon us this that we celebrate the traditions which Moses month. these martyrs during delivered unto us” (12,14). The day after the Christmas octave While the debate contin- Christmas is the as we celebrate Jesus’ ued, we read in Chapter 6, feast of the first mar- birth on earth. “All that sat on the council ... tyr of the Church, St. Deacon Let’s take a closer saw his face as if it had been Stephen, who was Etter look at the life of St. the face of an angel.” stoned to death for Stephen, the Then when he said, standing up for his beliefs. Church’s first martyr and a “Behold, I see the heavens Friday, Dec. 28, is the feast of deacon. opened and the Son of Man the Holy Innocents, the inno- In the Acts of the Apos- standing on the right hand cent babies killed by a tyrant tles, the name of St. Stephen of God,” they ran violently who was trying to kill the occurs for the first time on St. Stephen the Martyr is seen in a mural painted by toward him and cast him out infant Jesus. And Dec. 29 is the occasion of the appoint- Lorenzo Sabbatini during its restoration in 2007 at the to stone him to death (Acts the commemoration of St. ment of the first deacons. 7:56-58). Vatican. (CNS photo courtesy the Vatican Museums) Thomas Becket, who was You see, there was some dis- As they were stoning him, murdered by agents of King satisfaction concerning the lenist, one of the Jews who and wisdom” (Acts 6:3). he said, “Lord, do not hold Henry II of England because distribution of alms from the had been born in some for- Chapter 6 also says that he this sin against them,” and he defended the rights of the community’s fund to the eign land and whose native was “full of grace and forti- when he said this, he fell Church. poor. tongue was Greek. We do tude” and his uncommon asleep (Acts 7:60). Little did According to the Catholic Seven men were selected not know when and in what oratorical powers and unim- all the people present casting Encyclopedia, the scheduling and specially ordained by circumstances he became a peachable logic were diffi- stones at him realize that the of these feast days around the apostles to care for the Christian. cult to resist. blood they shed was the first Christmas was intentional. poor, allowing themselves to His ministry as a deacon Many of his arguments seed of a harvest that was to “These dates have nothing to devote time to prayer and appears to have been mostly were full of the divine ener- cover the world. do with the chronological the ministry of the word. among the Hellenist con- gy of the scriptural authori- This reminds us that the order of the events.” The Stephen is the first men- verts with whom the apos- ties of God, with the added Catholic Christian life feasts were kept within the tioned and the best known tles were at first less familiar. weight of great wonders and should always include wit- octave of Christmas because among the seven. By selecting him as a dea- signs. As great as his wis- ness, care for the poor and the Holy Innocents gave Stephen’s life before this con, the Church publicly dom and spirit were, he was sacrifice. their lives for the newborn appointment is mostly acknowledged Stephen as a still unable to change the St. Stephen’s life is a per- savior; St. Stephen and St. unknown. His name is Greek man of “good reputation minds of the unwilling and fect model of how we are to Thomas Becket were wit- and suggests he was a Hel- and full of the Holy Ghost would soon become an live our lives.

REST IN PEACE

Please pray for the repose of the souls of our departed brothers and sisters in the Diocese of Lafayette-in- Indiana.

Jack Donati, 84, died Nov. 30. William “Bill” Taylor, 94, died Dec. 1. Both were members of St. Lawrence in Muncie. Ann (Hildebrandt) Pearson, 65, died Nov. 27. She was a member of All Saints in Logansport. Ann Martine Clyne, 69, died Dec. 3. She was a member of St. Alphonsus Liguori in Zionsville. William Silvis, 93, died Dec. 2. He was a member of St. Joseph in Lebanon.

Names of the deceased are provided at the request of parishes in the diocese desiring to provide this information. December 16, 2018 The Catholic Moment Page 9

Guest column ‘Young Life’ is evangelization opportunity for adults

By Kerin Buntin various high schools and Indiana include, but are not nearby churches sparked our limited to, Muncie, Have you ever heard of interest, and suddenly there Lafayette, Lebanon, Zions- Young Life? If you said “no,” was no turning back. Eric ville, Carmel and Fishers. that makes two of us! and I jumped into Young Ian Faulkner, the Fishers When my husband, Eric, Life eager to share our gifts. area Young Life director, and I entrusted our teenage Eric was excited and sur- emphasized that Young Life daughter, Shannon, to the prised to find out that more does not and cannot replace care of friends while we than 200 dads show up on a the Church. Young Life adult traveled to Italy for 10 days, given Monday night to play leaders simply walk along- we arrived home excited to basketball with their kids! side teens and point them share our Vatican Young Life is a back to the Church. The highlight — Eric had not-for-profit Christ- overall goal is to engage captured Pope Fran- ian organization that Catholic speakers and cis’ hand clasped focuses on real rela- Catholic adult leaders to with mine on our tionships with adults share their faith journey by 25th wedding who care about incorporating the sacra- anniversary. teenagers. Young ments and the saints with But, before I ever Life represents more Young Life teens. said a word, Shan- than 4,000 staff and Pope Francis describes non enthusiastically Kerin 40,000 volunteers evangelization: “Christians inquired if she could Buntin ministering in more must be willing to move go to Young Life than 80 countries where the Spirit leads them camp. I was thinking to around the globe. and not be benchwarmers on myself, “What is Young Life While the Church calls all the sidelines of efforts to camp and where is it?” Eric, baptized Christians to work evangelize. A ‘couch potato’ the avid CPA in the family, together to proclaim the evangelization doesn’t exist. ters, Young Life leaders, par- to be a loving and servant was eager to learn how Gospel and promote the Get up and go! Be always on ents, bishops, diocesan staff, Christian.” much it would cost. The common good, Young Life is the move. Go to a place teachers and administrators Butler University men’s moral of our story is: God ready to partner with the where you must speak the to come to the historic gath- basketball coach LaVall Jor- works miracles every day if Catholic Church in an ecu- word of God.” ering in New York City on dan said, “My wife, Desti- you are still enough to recog- menical gift exchange: There are many Church Jan. 24-26, 2019. nee, and I support Young nize them. • Young Life exists documents that have been The idea is to have a team Life and are grateful for the We quickly surmised that because of adult leaders that written by previous popes of Indiana adults represent- positive faith journey that it Young Life is much more want to live their faith out- about evangelization in the ing both Young Life and the is providing for our three than a worldwide, week- side the four walls of a Catholic Church, and there is Catholic Church in New daughters.” long summer camp, it is a church. a long history of how York. We want people there, The Indiana team is grow- weekly gathering at a public • Young Life leadership is Catholics should evangelize and particularly the right ing. This is a defining place and it’s all about Jesus! open to any adults 18 years the faith. Throughout every people — bridge builders, moment in the Catholic Eric and I never had the or older with a desire to age, the Catholic Church’s evangelizers, those who Church. How will you experience of attending engage in the ministry dri- greatest joy and challenge is have a passion for Jesus, for respond? Registration infor- summer camp, so the idea ven by the vision — that to proclaim the Gospel of kids and for the Church. mation may be found at was new to us. Camp just every adolescent will have Jesus in ways that engage, The experience will foster https://younglifecatholic wasn’t a thing growing up in the opportunity to know inspire and challenge indi- unity and relationship, the forum.splashthat.com. our generation, or so we Jesus and grow in their faith. viduals and the culture at ability to really get to know You can learn more about thought. • Young Life leaders are large. each other, and cast a com- how to get involved in your We didn’t know Young willing to demonstrate Young Life is on the cut- mon vision for reaching the local Young Life by entering Life has been around for authentic, faith-based ting edge of youth ministry next generation of teens. a zip code into the Young generations. Founded in friendships and share the by adapting to the ever- Joe Reitz, former Indi- Life locator on the Web site 1938, it is a worldwide min- love of Jesus by mentoring changing world of kids anapolis Colts player and www.YoungLife.com. istry reaching more than 1.7 teenagers. today. The first forum, being parishioner at Our Lady of million high school students, Young Life groups organized by the National Mt. Carmel Parish, Carmel, Kerin Buntin has a master’s middle school students, col- throughout Indiana are Leadership Team for Young shared his support for a degree in pastoral theology and lege students, students with thriving, but there is huge Life in collaboration with the Young Life Indiana team. He is a freelance journalist and disabilities, teen moms and potential for enormous Diocese of Brooklyn in New said, “Faith was first founder of Peace Love Pilgrim- military, every year. growth in high schools and York, is under the leadership throughout my football age. Her greatest blessing is Witnessing Shannon’s middle schools. Some areas of Auxiliary Bishop James career and serving others is wife and twice-blessed mom. undeniable love for Jesus that are active throughout Massa. It is an invitation for at the heart of my life. My Follow Kerin Buntin on Twitter and that of her friends from the Diocese of Lafayette-in- pastors, priests, youth minis- first responsibility is to God, and LinkedIn.

Upcoming retreats at Saint Joseph Retreat & Conference Center in Tipton

• Women’s Silent • “Get Away for a Day,” • Men’s Five-Day Silent Retreat, Jan. 11-13 April 9 Retreat, June 8-12 • “Get Away for a Day,” • St. Joseph the Worker Jan. 15 Day of Reflection, May 1 To register, contact • Married Couples • “Get Away for a Day,” Samir Azer at sazer@dol- Retreat, Jan. 25-26 May 14 in.org or 765-551-9570. For • Crafters’ Retreat, Feb. • Women’s Silent more information, visit 1-3 • “Get Away for a Day,” March 12 Retreat, June 21-23 www.stjosephretreat.org. • Men’s Silent Retreat, Feb. 12 • Lenten Day of Reflec- • “Get Away for a Day,” Retreats are available for Feb. 8-10 • “Get Away for a Day,” tion, March 26 July 9 adults ages 19 and older. Page 10 The Catholic Moment December 16, 2018

HAPPENING ... IN THE DIOCESE OF LAFAYETTE-IN-INDIANA

Contributions to “Happening St. Lawrence, Muncie, ... in the Diocese of Lafayette- anniversary celebration in-Indiana” are most welcome. MUNCIE — St. Lawrence Send items in writing to: P.O. Church will celebrate its Box 1603, Lafayette, IN 47902 150th anniversary as a or e-mail: [email protected]. parish (1869-2019) through- Please send information at out the coming year. The least two weeks before the first event will be a candle- event to ensure timely notice. light Mass at 4:30 p.m. Mon- The listing is free. day, Dec. 31. This is also the Vigil Mass for the Jan. 1 Rosary for healing holy day of obligation. in the Church Beautiful brass ornaments WEST LAFAYETTE — All created by the Charleston are invited to join in praying Mint are available for $25 the luminous mysteries of each. The ornament design the rosary each Thursday is based on the exterior of for the intention of healing the church and shows each in the Church. The rosary side of the church, along will be prayed beginning with a brass plate that around noon (after the 11:30 hangs down with the parish a.m. Mass) at St. Thomas information. For more infor- Aquinas Church. mation about ornaments, contact the parish office at The story of the Child Jesus 765-288-9223. Many other LAFAYETTE — The Cathe- events also are being dral of St. Mary of the planned throughout the Immaculate Conception year. Events already continues its evenings planned are: Frank Runyeon devoted to the story of the Religious education students at St. Thomas Aquinas Parish in West will present “The Gospel of Child Jesus. “The Infancy Lafayette recently enjoyed a visit from St. Nicholas. He gave each student a Luke” at 7 p.m. Feb. 13 in Narratives: Jesus of chocolate-filled coin to symbolize his love for the poor and to show everyone the the church; a “Gala” dinner Nazareth,” written by Pope gift of love that Jesus gives to all who receive him in the Eucharist. (Photo cour- and dance will be held June Benedict XVI, will be used tesy Julia Haskell) 15 at Cornerstone Center for to delve into the Gospels of the Arts in Muncie; and a Matthew and Luke. On special Mass with Bishop Thursday, Dec. 20, Deacon 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, a Christmas gift of prayer invited to attend the fourth Timothy L. Doherty will be Joe Poremski will facilitate Dec. 16, in Newman Hall in for all family and friends annual “Cassock Classic” celebrated at 4:30 p.m. Aug. an evening focusing on the the lower level of St. who have died this year. It basketball game, featuring 10, followed by a catered visit of the Wise Men and Thomas Aquinas Church. will include adoration, a priests and seminarians of dinner at the Knights of the flight into Egypt. On Sister Ann Astell will offer a homily, recitation of the the Lafayette diocese, on Columbus Hall. Thursday, Jan. 10, the series welcome, a children’s play rosary, Benediction and the Thursday, Dec. 27, at St. will finish with a session led will be presented on “A Let- opportunity to enroll loved Theodore Guerin High Eucharistic adoration by Anne Roat on the finding ter to the Christ Child” and ones in the “Golden Book of School. The event is pre- DEMOTTE — All are invit- of Jesus in the Temple. St. Nicholas will stop by for Prayers.” sented by the Frassati Soci- ed to join in Eucharistic Everyone is invited to a visit. Those attending are ety of Young Adult adoration from 7 p.m. to 8 attend either or both of the asked to bring some cookies Catholic Business Exchange Catholics. Doors will open p.m. Friday, Jan. 4, at St. evenings which are to share, if they are able. Bishop Timothy L. Doherty at 5:30 p.m., with tip-off at Cecilia Church, 334 15th St. designed to help us situate For more information, con- will be the guest speaker at 6:30 p.m. Cost is $5 per per- SW. Refreshments and the Christ in the Christmas sea- tact Julie Haskell at the next monthly meeting of son or $20 per family. Tick- opportunity for conversa- son. For more information, [email protected]. the Catholic Business ets may be purchased at the tion will follow. The e-mail Anne Roat at Exchange, to be held from 7 door. evening is sponsored by St. [email protected]. Schoenstatt holy hour a.m. to 9 a.m. Friday, Dec. Cecilia’s Young Adults. WEST LAFAYETTE — All 21, at the Northside Knights Tootsie Roll Drive “Advent Afternoon are invited to attend a of Columbus, 2100 E. 71st CARMEL — Knights of “Follow Me” Cookie Express” Schoenstatt holy hour with St., Indianapolis. His topic Columbus Council 12387 ZIONSVILLE — St. Alphon- WEST LAFAYETTE — All Father Cassian Sama, OP, at will be “Catholic Business will conduct a Tootsie Roll sus Liguori Parish invites all are invited to attend a 7 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 18, in Leaders: The Church and Drive at an upcoming Indy to attend an upcoming Schoenstatt “Advent After- St. Thomas Aquinas the World Need You.” Cost Fuel hockey game to benefit Ascension Press Bible Study, noon Cookie Express” from Church. The evening will be is $15 per person for Special Olympics Indiana. A “Follow Me: Meeting Jesus Catholic Business Exchange portion of ticket prices for in the Gospel of John.” The members and $21 for non- the game also will be donat- eight-week program will be *SPPS[YW SR WSGMEP  members and guests; cost ed to Special Olympics Indi- held beginning at 7 p.m. QIHMEXS WXE] MR XLI  includes breakfast. Registra- ana. The game will be Tuesday, Jan. 8, and 9:30 tion for the meeting will played on Friday evening, a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 9; par- PSSTEFSYX [LEX W  close at noon on Thursday, Dec. 28, at the Indiana State ticipants are welcome to LETTIRMRKMR SYV  Dec. 20; walk-ins are not Fairgrounds. Doors open at attend either the evening or HMSGIWIIRKEKI [MXL permitted due to meal plan- 6:30 p.m.; the game will morning sessions, as their ning. For more information begin at 7:30 p.m. Tickets schedule permits. Work- MRWTMVMRKGSRXIRX $HMSPEJMR or to register online, visit may be purchased at books cost $19.95 plus tax, PIEVREFSYX ]SYV the Web site at http:// https://fuel.isportstix.com/ and are available at the JEMXLERH QSVI catholicbusinessexchange. order/group/KofC. For Celtic Cross Catholic Gift org. more information, e-mail Shop, 1512 W. 86th St., Indi- [email protected]. All are anapolis. For more informa- “Cassock Classic” invited to attend. tion, call 317-873-2885, ext. basketball game 501, or e-mail jtumasian@ NOBLESVILLE — All are zionsvillecatholic.com. December 16, 2018 The Catholic Moment Page 11

HAPPENING ... IN THE DIOCESE OF LAFAYETTE-IN-INDIANA

Save the date/ Indiana March for Life The Diocese of Lafayette-in- New ambulatory care center opening in Frankfort Indiana, the Archdiocese of Indianapolis and Right to FRANKFORT — In May, industry moves toward “We are very excited to Life of Indianapolis invite St. Vincent and Witham more personalized care, bring these services to the all to join a “Vigil for Life” Health Services announced patients expect providers residents of Frankfort and on Jan. 21 and the Indiana a major initiative to expand to make their services more Clinton County and contin- March for Life on Jan. 22 in health-care access in Clin- accessible and convenient ue to look for ways we can Indianapolis. The events ton County with the devel- for them,” said Aaron improve access and quality will include a youth rally opment of a new ambulato- Shoemaker, chief medical care to those we serve.” with a night of worship and ry care center at 2485 E. officer, St. Vincent Medical The new center will be a keynote speaker at St. Wabash St. in Frankfort, Group. “In collaboration open Monday through Sat- John the Evangelist Church across from Walmart. with Witham Health Ser- urday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. beginning at 7 p.m. Jan. 21. On Dec. 5, the health vices, Clinton County resi- A family community Mass will be celebrated by systems announced that St. dents in need of non-emer- day and open house will be Archbishop Charles C. Vincent Medical Group at gency care will have a new held from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Thompson and Bishop Tim- Frankfort would begin see- option.” Sunday, January 13. Atten- othy L. Doherty at 12:10 ing patients on Dec. 10, and This new development dees will be able to meet p.m. Jan. 22 at St. John the Witham Health Services of reinforces St. Vincent and providers, tour the new Evangelist Church, followed Frankfort will begin seeing Witham Health Services’ facility and enjoy refresh- by a march to the state capi- patients on Jan. 7. continued commitment to ments and a giveaway. tol. The new facility will Clinton County and sur- For more information Kids’ Page on Page 16 offer immediate care, pri- rounding residents. about the new ambulatory Save the date/ mary care, imaging, reha- “It brings quality health care center or to schedule ”Encounter” enter into deep prayer bilitation and laboratory care closer to home so that an appointment, call St. middle school event including Mass, and a call services, in addition to a we can better serve their Vincent at 765-656-3900 CARMEL — “Encounter: A to make the decision to variety of specialty care needs,” said Raymond Ing- and Witham at 765-485- Catholic Middle School move closer to Jesus. For providers. ham, president/CEO of 8000. Event,” hosted by the dioce- more information, contact “As the health-care Witham Health Services. san Office of Catechesis, will Paul Sifuentes at be held from 1 p.m. to 9 [email protected] or p.m. Saturday, Feb. 2, at St. 765-269-4654. pregnant, homeless women for younger children, mid- ends and Sharing Circles. Elizabeth Seton Church. The improve life for themselves dle-school students, high- Visit www.wwme.org to event is open to all sixth- Save the date/ and their children. school students and adults. apply. Upcoming weekends through eighth-grade stu- The O’Connor House Registration and speaker to be held in Indianapolis dents, chaperones, youth Celebration of Life Event Save the date/ information can be found include April 26-28, 2019. leaders and priests. The CARMEL — The O’Connor Indiana Holy Family online at www.holyfamily Couples who already have mission of this one-day House will hold its 2019 Cel- Catholic Conference conference.org. All are wel- participated in a Marriage event of faith is to provide ebration of Life Event from KOKOMO — The 13th come to attend. Encounter Weekend are young teens with opportu- 6:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. Satur- annual Indiana Holy Family invited to join monthly nities to encounter Jesus day, March 9, at the Booth Catholic Conference will be WorldWide Marriage Sharing Circles. For more and his Church and engage Tarkington Civic Theatre in held Saturday, March 9. Encounter information, e-mail with the relevant and pow- Carmel. All are invited to Hosted by St. Joan of Arc Married couples in the [email protected]. erful Gospel message. The mark their calendars for a and St. Patrick parishes, the Lafayette diocese and Indi- day will include dynamic unique and fun evening. The day-long conference is a anapolis area are invited to speakers, kerygmatic mission of The O’Connor family event that is unique restore, renew and rekindle preaching, fun and engag- House is to provide a Christ- to all ages. The day will their marriages through ing games, opportunities to ian home to help single, include separate programs Marriage Encounter Week-

Women who have had an Las mujeres que han tenido abortion often struggle un aborto a menudo luchan with questions: con preguntas como: Can God ever forgive ¿Podrá Dios perdonarme? me? Can my child forgive ¿Podrá perdonarme mi hijo? me? Can I ever forgive ¿Podré perdonarme myself? Will this horrible a mí misma? pain ever go away? ¿Alguna vez se acabará este Is healing possible? Marriage: terrible dolor? Unique for a Reason ¿Es posible la sanación? Project Rachel proclaims Dive in deep to the that the answer to all El Proyecto Raquel dice que Church’s teaching and these questions is YES. la respuesta a todas estas preguntas es SÍ. join the conversation Copyright artwork courtesy of Beverly A. Stautz Copyright artwork courtesy of Beverly Respect Life Program and the U.S. bishops’ Copyright artwork courtesy of Beverly A. Stautz Copyright artwork courtesy of Beverly Respect Life Program and the U.S. bishops’ about marriage, children, Call Project Rachel Llame al Proyecto Raquel society and more. www.marriage 765-414-3072 (English) 765-414-3072 (inglés) uniqueforareason.org 765-701-0620 (Spanish) 765-701-0620 (español)

Project Rachel is the Church’s healing ministry to those El Proyecto Raquel es el ministerio de la Iglesia de sanación who have been involved in abortion. para quienes han estado involucrados en el aborto. All calls are confidential. Todas las llamadas son confidenciales. Page 12 The Catholic Moment December 16, 2018

NEWSBRIEFS Quotes Re-Quoted Paris archbishop Faithful prays for his country attend the “Why don’t we begin beatification each day with a ‘Here I ceremony for am, Lord’? It would be PARIS (CNS) — Paris 19 religious beautiful to say each Archbishop Michel Au- men and morning, ‘Here I am, Lord, petit offered special women who may your will be done in prayers for his country at were killed in me today.’ ... ‘Here I am’ is Mass Dec. 7, even as the Algeria’s civil the key to life. It marks French government war, at the the passage from a hori- dropped all fuel tax in- shrine of zontal life focused on one- creases for 2019. self and one’s own needs, The government move Notre Dame de Santa Cruz to a vertical life, reaching came after French cities toward God.” were hit with weeks of in Oran, Algeria, violent protests, as — Pope Francis, during French demanded lower Dec. 8. (CNS photo/ the midday Angelus prayer fuel taxes and better pur- on Dec. 8. chasing power. Images of Abdelaziz Boumzar, rampage at the Arc de ••• Triomphe and the Reuters) Champs-Elysees during “In a kind of perpetual the Dec. 1 weekend have Pope: Algerian martyrs a testament to dialogue and peace cycle of wanting to move been shown around the from event to event, to world. VATICAN CITY (CNS) world to celebrate the mar- been victims of the same vi- have no preparation but At least four people — The lives of 19 religious tyrs’ commitment to peace, olence for having lived, just to celebrate and have died since the men and women martyred but it was also a time to re- with faithfulness and re- move, Advent is a radical protests began in mid- during the Algerian civil member the sacrifices made spect for each other, their critique.” November. war are a testament to by all Algerians during the duties as believers and citi- On Dec. 5, Archbishop God’s plan of love and bloody war. zens in this blessed land. It — Timothy O’Malley, Aupetit said he believed peaceful coexistence be- Cardinal Angelo Becciu, is for them, too, that we academic director for the the protests reflected a tween Christians and Mus- prefect of the Congregation pray and express our grate- Center for Liturgy at the “significant suffering of lims, Pope Francis said. for Saints’ Causes, celebrat- ful tribute,” the pope said. University of Notre Dame. many of our fellow citi- In a message read Dec. 8 ed the Mass in Oran, Alge- Among those who were zens,” but he denounced at the beatification Mass for ria, for the martyrs who beatified were seven Trap- ••• the “outrageous vio- the six women religious and were killed between 1994 pists who were murdered in lence” that led to violent 13 clerics, Pope Francis said and 1996. 1996 by members of the “Something like this clashes, particularly in it was a time for Catholics Both Christians and Armed Islamic Group in awakens something within Paris. in Algeria and around the Muslims in Algeria “have Tibhirine, Algeria. us. It gives the Lord a chance to pull triggers Pope Francis Pope’s Lamborghini within us of generosity, of kindness and of gentleness greets a sick now up for raffle with others.” child as he VATICAN CITY (CNS) visits poor, — Deacon Ray Helge- sick people — A custom-built 2018 Lamborghini Huracan son, of St. Thomas More at a center Parish in Paradise, Calif., run by the coupe autographed by Pope Francis is back on the speaking about acts of CasAmica kindness in the wake of Onlus orga- block, but this time with an online fund-raising plat- devastating wildfires. An nization on form, not at an elite Euro- estimated 640 of the the outskirts pean auction house. parish’s 800 families lost of Rome The Italian luxury car- their homes. Dec. 7. maker donated the vehicle to the pope in 2017, then ••• (CNS photo/ the vehicle was put up for Vatican auction to raise money for “One theme is constant. Media) charity. However, it turns Our work doesn’t just out the final bidder at the help people through a Surprise! Pope makes more impromptu ‘Mercy Friday’ visits Sotheby’s auction in May tough time — it trans- did not finalize the trans- forms lives, not temporari- ROME (CNS) — Pope home, were part of the Rome. action and the promised ly, but permanently; and Francis made surprise visits pope’s continuing “Mercy The Vatican said most of $800,000 sale fell through. not just one person, but Dec. 7 to people receiving Friday” activities. the guests at the CasAmica In an effort to still raise their families and their medical care far from their Pope Francis began the are Italian families, mostly funds for a good cause, communities. That is the homes and to a dozen intel- Friday visits to hospitals, from the south, who cannot Lamborghini has decided kind of transformational lectually challenged young clinics, schools and residen- afford to stay in a hotel or it will offer people around change we always strive people. tial communities during the rent an apartment while the world — not just the for.” The late-afternoon visits 2015-16 Year of Mercy to their family members are highest bidder — the Dec. 7 to the CasAmica res- demonstrate that mercy in- receiving treatment for can- chance to win the unique — Sean Callahan, presi- idence for families with a volves concrete acts of kind- cer, leukemia or other seri- vehicle. Donations begin at dent and CEO of Catholic member needing long-term ness and solidarity. ous illnesses. A few of the $10 in order to enter the Relief Services, during a medical care far from home Both the CasAmica and Il families, though, come from contest, at www.omaze. 75th anniversary celebra- and to Il Ponte e l’Albero, a Ponte e l’Albero are on the North Africa and from East- com/experiences/pope- tion of the global aid orga- therapeutic rehabilitation extreme southern edge of ern Europe. francis-lamborghini. nization. December 16, 2018 The Catholic Moment Page 13 Making St. John the Baptist’s acquaintance in Advent

By David Gibson “Works of art inspired by Catholic News Service Scripture” can reflect “the This week’s unfathomable mystery hat do you think topic: Fourth which engulfs and inhabits the John the Bap- the world,” St. John Paul II W tist of real time Sunday of once said. 2,000 years ago looked like During Advent, Chris- and sounded like? I’m talk- Advent is tians remember that John the ing about the fascinating Dec. 23 Baptist introduces Jesus as desert preacher who makes a the Lamb of God. fresh appearance in Christ- “Behold, the Lamb of ian communities during the God, ‘who takes away the Advent season leading to sin of the world,’” he said Christmas. when he saw Jesus coming John’s was “a voice of one toward him (Jn 1:29). crying out in the desert,” the Catholics will recognize Gospel of Luke states (3:4), these as the words priests borrowing words of the an- proclaim at the time of Com- cient prophet Isaiah. munion during the Mass. So Do those words, coupled John’s words echo even with the Gospel of today in the Church’s daily Matthew’s depiction of John life. eating “locusts and wild The lamb in salvation his- honey” and wearing camel’s tory is a figure of peace, hair garments (3:4), prompt mercy, kindness and free- some to imagine him as ec- dom. By applying the blood centric, strange and rather of a lamb to their doorways, disheveled, shouting a mes- the ancient Israelites en- sage of repentance to anyone slaved in Egypt were as- who would listen? sured that God would pro- But John “was famous,” tect them and free them for Pope Francis observed in a the journey to their home- 2018 talk in Peru. “All came land (Ex 12:3-13). to be baptized by him; they Throughout Christian his- listened to him with re- tory, “Lamb of God” served spect.” The Gospel of as a descriptive title for Matthew affirms this (3:5). Jesus. The unknown medieval To know people well, it is artist who sculpted a figure essential not just to hear of the Baptist for the magnif- their words, but to observe icent cathedral in Chartres, their actions. Don’t actions France, seems to have won- speak as loud, or louder, dered what he really looked than words? like. The sculpture, standing John the Baptist, depicted in the statue second from the right, is seen in the cathedral The Chartres sculpture of above the cathedral’s north in Chartres, France. The sculpture shows him carrying the lamb of God, at once John the Baptist clearly portico doorway, stunned cradling him and pointing toward him. (CNS photo/Stephane Mahe, Reuters) shows him in action. He is me when I first saw it. carrying the lamb of God, at If anything, this John the him in the desert did precise- Matthew 25:34-36 to the Son you clothed me.” once cradling him and point- Baptist is a prayerful, ap- ly that. What “should we of Man at the time of his So John the Baptist’s pres- ing toward him. pealing figure. The sculpture do”? they asked (Lk 3:10). coming in glory: “Come, you ence during Advent has a This is what all followers presents John as gentle, John responded, “Whoev- who are blessed by my Fa- way of underscoring the im- of Christ do. They become kind, self-possessed and er has two cloaks should ther. Inherit the kingdom portance of Christ’s second bearers of the lamb, carrying even contemplative. (He share with the person who prepared for you. ... coming, one key theme of him into their world through does wear a camel’s hair gar- has none. And whoever has “For I was hungry and this liturgical season. their words and actions. ment!) food should do likewise” (Lk you gave me food, I was Did our Chartres sculptor It isn’t hard to imagine 3:11). thirsty and you gave me aim to jolt imaginations with David Gibson served on people asking his advice. In- Significantly, his response drink, a stranger and you an unpredictable, thought- Catholic News Service’s editor- deed, crowds coming to hear parallels words attributed in welcomed me, naked and provoking figure of John? ial staff for 37 years.

(CNS photo/Nancy Wiechec) (CNS photo/Nancy Wiechec) Page 14 The Catholic Moment December 16, 2018

V ISUAL R EFLECTIONS The Catholic Moment

OFFICIAL NEWSPAPER OF THE DIOCESE OF LAFAYETTE-IN-INDIANA With a spirit of gratitude

For a Christian, thanksgiving is not just an annual hol- iday, but a daily attitude of life. For God became one of The heart of us, in humble self-emptying, to reconcile each one of us this good Mother to God’s love and mercy. For this act of undeserved and is all love unmerited divine love, we never exhaust the depths of our gratitude to God. and mercy; On the Third Sunday of Advent, traditionally known she desires only as Gaudete Sunday, the readings of Scripture invite us to to see us happy. recapture that deep Christian spirit of gratitude ex- pressed in deeds of justice and charity. And as we give — St. John Marie thanks to God, we discover the deep hope of Advent in Vianney God’s renewed coming into our families, homes and lives. One of the first phrases parents teach a child is to say, “thank you.” And public expressions of gratitude are often on display during award ceremonies when people receiving awards deliver short or long acceptance speeches. From the Oscars and the Golden Globes to the Grammys and Country Music Awards, winners are com- pelled to deliver words of thanks as they accept the

honor of a special award. (An icon of Mary Undoer Knots/CNS file photo/Octavio Duran) Overjoyed winners often list, with gratitude, those in their professional and personal lives who made it possi- ble for them to achieve success and fame. And they are quick to admit that in the limited time of an acceptance A songwriter’s thanks to one red cardinal speech, they could only mention a few outstanding per- sons since they could not thank everyone who is truly In the liner notes of an ty. But he also wondered deserving of their gratitude. album, musicians usually why this was happening, so When it comes to expressing our gratitude to God, thank their colleagues, staff Light he Googled the words “red there are never-ending opportunities to lift our hearts and family for their talent cardinal Christian symbol- and minds to God. There is no limit to what we can and support. But on the back One ism.” thank God for since all of creation comes from the loving cover of Grammy nominee He recalled, “It said that if hand of God. Matt Maher’s new record Candle you keep seeing a red cardi- Everywhere we look we discover some sign of God’s “The Advent of Christmas,” nal, it’s a sign that someone BY TONY ROSSI love, mercy and providential care, even in the midst of the singer-songwriter ex- you love is praying for you. difficulties and obstacles to faith. Perhaps this is why St. presses an unusual senti- And immediately, I thought, Paul urges the Philippians with such confidence by say- ment of gratitude: “Thanks ‘Dad!’ ... My dad loved ing, “Rejoice in the Lord always. I shall say it again: Re- to the red cardinal that kept The bittersweet element Christmas, and loved joice!” showing up during the mak- arose from the fact that melancholic Christmas It’s never too late to begin the spiritual preparations of ing of this record.” That bird Maher lost his father in 2017, songs. He was Irish, and the Advent. Give God thanks for the small and large gifts of helped Maher find solace so he had to navigate feel- Irish love a good cry. So as daily life as one way to get back on the spiritual track over a loss that he was still ings of sorrow during a sea- soon as I saw that cardinal, I you may have hoped to travel this Advent. grieving, while also leaving son of joy. just knew my dad is praying This guest editorial was written by Jem Sullivan, secretary him with a renewed sense of The album’s closing track for me with this record. (It for Catholic education of the Archdiocese of Washington. purpose and joy. “When I Think of Christ- was) a huge encouragement Maher is one of the most mas” addresses that to keep going.” successful Christian musi- heartache in the line, “There In addition to the album, cians in the industry. During are faces I miss, the ones not Maher wrote a children’s a “Christopher Closeup” in- with us.” book, also titled “The Ad- terview, he recalled feeling Interestingly, that was vent of Christmas.” The idea that the time was right to one of the two songs for arose because he treasures record his first Christmas which the red cardinal start- reading stories with his kids album, which is a wonderful ed showing up outside the at bedtime. “That’s how the mixture of joyous, sing- studio. Having grown up in faith was transmitted for the M ISSION S TATEMENT along-style celebrations and Newfoundland, Maher had first couple of hundred Diocese of Lafayette-in-Indiana deeply meaningful, bitter- never seen many cardinals years,” he points out. “Just sweet reflections. and kept admiring its beau- people telling stories.” We are the people of God uniting in the heart of Jesus Christ. We join the whole Church in proclaiming the Gospel in Word, Sacrament and Charity for the salvation of all people. December 16, 2018 The Catholic Moment Page 15 ‘You can count on me’: Ask God if maybe it’s time to reach out

y husband and I the deli to the bakery. seeing our families. ling, a cousin, a parent, a raised three kids in I would try to compose Friends would be heading child, a former best friend — M Alaska. For the myself in case I saw friends, to Hawaii or Mexico — fa- with whom you no longer It was a great place to live, but my coat sleeve would be vorite Alaskan destinations communicate, make an ef- but it was a long way from Journey soaked by the time I made it — while we’d be saving to fort this year, if it seems pru- our families in the Midwest through the checkout. visit family. We spent our va- dent or possible. and on the East Coast. So Is there such a thing as cation time seeing East Coast Take some of that when Christmas rolled “Catholic guilt”? Or is a feel- sights or sitting with Mom at promised quiet time, be BY EFFIE CALDAROLA around, we started out at- ing of family nostalgia built her small-town pool while completely silent before God tempting the “I’ll be home into this crazy season? I the kids splashed. and let him love you for a for Christmas” thing. to relatives for the summer could not be counted on. But sometimes at Christ- while with no other The airports were — and months. Bing knew. mas I hear those words, thoughts rattling around in still are — at their most fren- This was practical and Christmas is a wonderful “you can count on me,” and your head. zied then. Santa had to find made sense. But emotionally, time, but it’s definitely I get a little pang. It is, after Then, ask God if maybe us as we spanned the United it was tougher. stressful. We want to carve all, Christmas. And I wish I it’s time to reach out. States. One child inevitably My neighborhood grocery out time for reflection while had one more with Mom. The older you get, the came down with an illness. must have seen me coming, the culture pulls us the other Occasionally, I’ll hear more you know that life is We had to juggle Christmas and at my entrance would direction entirely. Parties, from a friend or relative that incredibly short, our time on programs, the greater cost of inevitably play, at high vol- gift exchanges, cookies, they are “estranged” from a this earth so limited. seasonal travel, the potential ume, Bing Crosby singing checkbook shock, fatigue, to- family member. Maybe just a card, maybe for blizzards thwarting us in “I’ll be home for Christmas. do lists — it can be over- I hate to be too inquisitive a quick call. Just the basics, at least one of the airports You can count on me.” whelming. so I don’t ask why. But we all an “I love you” with no we had to negotiate. It had to be Bing Crosby And then there are the know families where some- strings and no conditions It didn’t take long to de- — a favorite of my mother’s memories. body’s angry at somebody. and no accusations or expec- cide that we needed to estab- — and on cue, at those My mom is gone now, and Or maybe someone’s just tations. lish our own Christmas tra- words, “you can count on I look back and am proud drifted away. Just a very short, “You can ditions in our own house me,” I would puddle up and that we made great effort If you are one of those count on me.” and save those long journeys cry from the produce aisle to and financial commitment to families — if there is a sib-

LOOKING BACK Saints You’re always welcome here. of the week These stories appeared in The Catholic Moment and its Come to St. Peter, Winamac. predecessor, the Lafayette edition of Our Sunday Visitor: • 50 years ago, Dec. 15, 1968: Judy Baker, who grad- uated last June from the Holy Cross School of Nurs- ing in Kokomo, is one of eight registered nurses who will spend the next 12 months assisting the starv- ing, sick and war-injured in Nigeria and Biafra. She vol- Dominic of Silos unteered through the (1000 - 1073) Catholic Medical Mission Feast: Dec. 20 Board. • 25 years ago, Dec. 12, As a youth, Dominic 1993: Celebrations for the tended sheep on the feast of Our Lady of foothills of the Pyrenees Guadalupe have been where he learned to ap- scheduled at parishes across preciate solitude. He then the Lafayette diocese. A pursued the quiet life of a diocesan observance is monk. Dominic became planned at St. Mary Church prior of his monastery, in Frankfort. but was forced to flee by • 10 years ago, Dec. 14, the king of Navarre, who 2008: More than 200 families intended to seize the will receive outerwear to monastery’s land. The stave off the cold this winter, monastery of St. Sebastian thanks to a coat drive at Our at Silos welcomed him. Lady of Mt. Carmel Church There as prior, Dominic and School in Carmel. The conducted a successful coat drive ministry started at program of spiritual and the parish in 1992. material renewal. Blessed • Five years ago, Dec. 15, Joan of Aza later visited 2013: Sacred Heart School in When you are not with us, we miss you. his tomb, where she had a Fowler recently hosted its vision that she would 32nd annual Christmas Lord’s Day Masses have another son. When bazaar, featuring more than Saturday: 4 p.m. the child was born, she 60 vendors. Organized by Sunday: 10 a.m. named him Dominic; he school parents, it’s the became the founder of the To see more Mass times across the Lafayette diocese, visit the Web site at www.dol-in.org biggest school fund-raiser of Dominican Order. and look for all of our parishes in coming weeks in The Catholic Moment. the year. (Catholic News Service) Page 16 The Catholic Moment December 16, 2018

Kids’ Page Answers on Page 11

The Kids’ Page is created by Catholic artist Mario Macari of Greenfield, Wis., and edited by the staff of the Catholic Herald in Milwaukee.

As part of his Eagle Scout project, John Leriger, a parishioner of plotting, and working with a botanist to find the right fertilizers and other St. Alphonsus Liguori Church in Zionsville, planted a row of Sun Valley necessities. “I then followed the trees for a year to ensure they had Maples that are sure to make an impact on the church campus for years enough water and grew straight. We made it! A year later, the trees have to come. The lengthy project involved selling engraved bricks to raise taken root,” the Zionsville High School senior said. (Photos provided) funds, obtaining permits, working with a civil engineer for survey and