50¢ November 30, 2008 Think Green Volume 82, No. 44 Recycle www.diocesefwsb.org/TODAY Serving the Diocese of Fort Wayne-South Bend this paper TTODAYODAY’’SS CCATHOLICATHOLIC
Court of honor Advent is Fourteen Quinceañeras celebrate feast of Christ the King upon us
BY MARK WEBER Reflection and tradition highlight a beautiful season FORT WAYNE — In Mexican culture there is a tra- Pages 9-10 ditional celebration for a girl’s 15th birthday mark- ing the transition from girlhood to womanhood. “Quinceaños” is a important event in the life of the young lady (la quinceañera), her family and friends. Although it is richly festive and symbolic, with the Double whammy girl sometimes beginning the party wearing flats and finishing with heels, the occasion has deep religious Greater needs, few donors meaning highlighting God, family and friends. The occasion requires that the young lady has received hit food pantries her first Communion and the sacrament of confirma- Page 4 tion. To honor the feast of Christ the King at St. Patrick Parish in Fort Wayne, 14 young ladies who had already celebrated their Quinceaños individually with Masses and parties at St. Patrick, reprised their Honoring Our Lady observances in a combined celebratory Mass to honor the feast of Christ the King. Hessen Cassel School In an all-Spanish Mass celebrated by Divine Word Father Thomas Ascheman, the girls and their remembers beloved principal escorts recited a “dedication to the king,” offering Page 7 their youthfulness and stating that because Jesus is king of the universe, he should be king of their lives. To symbolize this offering, the young couples lined the center aisle of the church and stood in trib- ute as several parents brought up the gifts in the Going for state title offertory procession. Adding solemnity was an TESS STEFFEN honor guard of Fourth Degree Knights of Columbus Bishop Dwenger vies for Fourteen young couples honored the feast of Christ the King in a combined Quinceaños cel- from the Anthony Wayne Assembly. Class 4-A football win ebration at St. Patrick Church in Fort Wayne. The Spanish Mass, which had a standing room After Communion, each girl was met by her par- only congregation, included an honor guard of Fourth Degree Knights of Columbus from See top of sports the Anthony Wayne Assembly. PATRICK, PAGE 3 Page 14 Cultural orientation vital to MASS FOR DECEASED PRIESTS Advent reading successful refugee resettlement Some good books to cozy up to the fire with BY BONNIE ELBERSON tor Sanja Bebic and refugee training spe- cialist Colleen Mahar-Piersma of the for your holiday reading Cultural Orientation Resource Center at the FORT WAYNE — Thousands of refugees Center for Applied Linguistics in Page 16 arrive annually in the United States to Washington, D.C. escape persecution in their native coun- “We love what we do ... and feel a sense tries and to make a better life for them- of purpose,” said Bebic, speaking for all selves. Their transition to a new land and a those in attendance. different culture is not easy, however, and Calling her audience “stakeholders” in they require a great deal of assistance in the process, she outlined their tasks. They that effort. ease the newcomer’s transition to a new In Fort Wayne, refugee resettlement community, she said. They help him find falls under the auspices of one agency, employment so he can become self-suffi- MARK WEBER Catholic Charities, but the success of their cient; they help him overcome language work depends on the support of schools, barriers; they help him meet his psycholog- Following a noon Mass for deceased priests churches, safety personnel, health care pro- ical and social needs. In short, they must in the Cathedral of the Immaculate fessionals, the law community and many have compassion and the heart to serve. other local agencies. “We need to start with trust-building, not Conception in Fort Wayne, Bishop John M. Recently, representatives of all those paperwork,” said Bebic. D’Arcy and 21 priests gathered in the entities met at the Archbishop Noll The U.S. program was founded by the Catholic Center downtown to share ideas Refugee Act of 1980, which defines a per- cathedral crypt to recite prayers for the and formulate interactive programs. The son eligible for refugee status as one who dead and sing the Salve Regina. The two-day workshop provided a broad has a well-founded fear of persecution overview of the U.S. refugee admissions based on race, religion, nationality, social memorial Mass was offered for Msgr. program and cultural and community orien- group or political opinion. William M. Faber, and Fathers William G. tation as provided overseas and in domestic Currently, the largest number of resettlement programs, and gave partici- refugees arriving in the U.S. come from Hodde, Robert J. Hoevel, Elden J. Miller, pants an opportunity to expand and Africa (Berundi and Somalia), East Asia strengthen their local agenda. James J. O’Connor and Deacons Fred J. The workshop was facilitated by direc- CULTURE, PAGE 5 Larson and Louis McDougall. 2 TODAY’ S CATHOLIC NOVEMBER 30, 2008 TODAY’S CATHOLIC
Official newspaper of the Responding with our whole Diocese of Fort Wayne-South Bend P.O. Box 11169 Fort Wayne, IN 46856 humanity is an act of love PUBLISHER: Bishop John M. D’Arcy lame walk and the poor have the Gospel some very beautiful things — a lifelong rela- EDITOR: Tim Johnson preached to them. Why is it that Christ has so tionship with a good woman, children, grand- identified himself with those that are poor, in children, family and things deep within the NEWS EDITOR and STAFF WRITER: Kay need and hungry? These, more than those human heart. He should know why he is giv- Cozad who claim to be holy, are the special object of ing it up. He is giving up something beautiful NEWS his love; and so it must be for us who claim for something beautiful. Editorial Department to be his followers. I am sure my presentation did not come up PAGE DESIGNER: Francie Hogan &NOTES to Father Mike’s systematic and comprehen- FREELANCE WRITERS: Lauren Caggiano, And the question of waiting sive review of the teaching of the church on Ann Carey, Michelle Castleman, Karen BISHOP JOHN M. D’ARCY Nobody waits today. E-mails must be the priesthood, but I prepared well, and was Clifford, Elmer J. Danch, Michelle answered immediately (except by me). pleased to present the understanding of the Donaghey, Bonnie Elberson, Denise Texting every hour on the hour. Answers must priesthood as I first accepted it in my home come quickly. But Advent is waiting, as the Fedorow, Diane Freeby, May Lee The season of Advent and the Down parish from my family, and how it matured people of the covenant waited for the messi- Johnson, Sister Margie Lavonis, CSC, through the years with the teaching of the Jones average ah. So we, in the first weeks of Advent are Joe Kozinski and Deb Wagner church. I was very impressed with the read- Could the contrast in the Scriptures and waiting for the coming of Jesus Christ in our ings they were doing, one even from an arti- the culture be any greater this year as we pre- lives. cle which I did years ago. But I was more Business Department pare for Advent? In the later weeks of Advent, the readings impressed with the caliber of two Holy Cross BUSINESS MANAGER: Kathy Denice Everywhere we hear questions and con- focus on waiting for Christmas. seminarians, one candidate for the Diocese of AD GRAPHICS DIRECTOR: Mark Weber cerns like these: “How long will it last?” Also, in Advent, we wait for the coming of Albuquerque, one Holy Cross priest and two BOOKKEEPING/CIRCULATION: Kathy Voirol “The high price of housing!” “The collapse in God in our hearts, which only comes when lay people. It was a seminary course and it [email protected] the markets.” “The up and down prices of we are open to him. was a joy to be with them for over an hour. gas.” By way of contrast, the Gospel reading It is surely a time to slow down, come Advertising Sales for the feast of Christ the King, as we came to Tess Steffen (Fort Wayne area) the last Sunday of the year, is The teachers’ council (260) 456-2824 about the identification of Christ Many years ago, we formed a Jeanette Simon (South Bend area) with the one who is homeless, the teachers’ council as a good fit for one in prison, the sick and the It is surely a time to slow down, come with love to our (574) 234-0687 the relationship of our teachers dying. The government must Web site: www.diocesefwsb.org/TODAY with their bishop and with the dio- address the financial situation for neighbor in need and prove to ourselves cese. In the first two years, I Published weekly except the fourth the good of our people, but as the attended every meeting, and I Sunday in June, first and third weeks Scripture says, “Where your heart the authenticity of our following of Christ. promised after that to attend twice in July, first week in August and last is, there also will your treasure a year, and I have kept that prom- week in December by the Diocese of be.” As the Scriptures these ise. I learn about our teachers and Fort Wayne-South Bend, 1103 S. Sundays, and especially the past their struggles. I see their apprecia- Calhoun St., P.O. Box 390, Fort Wayne, Sunday, reminds us — our treas- tion when we were able to improve IN 46801. Periodicals postage paid at ure is in heaven. Fort Wayne, IN, and additional mailing with love to our neighbor in need and prove salaries and healthcare and working condi- office. I have been reflecting on the second part to ourselves the authenticity of our following tions. I see how important to them, is the of Pope Benedict’s encyclical, “Deus Caritas of Christ. Catholic identity of their schools. I know that POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: Est,” (“God is Love”). He says when we Advent is a time of quiet prayer and an some are single moms, and these meetings Today’s Catholic, P.O. Box 11169, Fort respond to another who is in difficulty, we open heart. It is a time of great grace, espe- help me become more aware of their needs. Wayne, IN 46856-1169 or e-mail: should be responding with our whole humani- cially the grace of realizing how close he This week, one of the things we spoke about [email protected]. ty. It is an act of love. It is given freely, and really is — in the Word, in the poor, in the was the need to do more in our schools for nothing is asked in return. At the conclusion, Eucharist. the handicapped. I also learned how impor- SUBSCRIPTION RATES: Domestic in he speaks of all the saints, especially Blessed advance, one year $20. Bundle rates tant it is to them when the parish priest has a available on request. Single copy 50¢. Teresa of Calcutta, who have set such an regular presence in the school. example in living this way. He refers to St. A professor once again MAIN OFFICE: 915 S. Clinton St., Fort Martin of Tours, a bishop whose feast we cel- What a joy to give a class at the University Wayne, IN 46802.Telephone (260) ebrated recently, and the pope tells of this of Notre Dame as part of a course taught by Finally, Saint Mary’s 456-2824. Fax: (260) 744-1473. event: Martin once gave half of his cloak to a Father Michael Heintz, Ph.D. The focus of A special weekend at South Bend celebrat- BUREAU OFFICE: 114 W.Wayne St., South poor man when they met at the gate of his the course is on the ministerial priesthood. It ing the Sunday Mass at the basilica in the late Bend, IN 46601.Telephone (574) 234- residence. That night, the Lord appeared to may surprise you that many seminaries have morning, and then in the evening my annual 0687. Fax: (574) 232-8483. him wearing the cloak, thus showing his iden- not presented a full course with a focus on the visit with the students at Saint Mary’s News deadline is the Monday morn- tification of Christ with those in need. When priesthood. The recent apostolic visitation of College. A chance for Mass with them, fol- ing before publication date. some of the followers of John the Baptist seminaries, of which I took part in a small lowed by a discussion and some sharing. Advertising deadline is nine days came to Christ to ascertain his identity, he way, has as one of its purposes to see that before publication date. told them to go and tell John what they have every seminary has such a course. How right Have a blessed Advent, and I will see you seen — the deaf hear, the dumb speak, the this is. A man becoming a priest gives up all next week. LETTERS POLICY: Today’s Catholic wel- comes original, signed letters about issues affecting church life. Although we cannot publish every letter we receive, we strive to provide a bal- Vatican calls for greater vigilance over financial operations anced representation of expressed opinions and a variety of reflections on life in the church.We will choose The statement, reported by “There is a need to avoid trig- invested in established markets or BY JOHN THAVIS letters for publication based on read- Vatican Radio, came in prepara- gering a chain of mutual protec- offshore institutions. er interest, timeliness and fairness. tion for the U.N.-sponsored tionism. Instead, cooperation It said offshore institutions Readers may agree or disagree with VATICAN CITY (CNS) — The International Conference on should be strengthened regarding have been the vehicle for massive the letter writers’ opinions. Letters Vatican said the current market Financing for Development, transparency and vigilance over transfers of wealth, some moti- must not exceed 250 words. All let- crisis calls for a new international which was to take place Nov. 29- the financial system,” it said. vated by tax evasion and some ters must be signed and include a agreement to effectively monitor Dec. 2 in Doha, Qatar. The con- “It is important that the politi- recycled from illegal activities. phone number and address for verifi- global financial operations and ference, to be attended by repre- cal examination among the rich- The document said that in cation.We reserve the right to edit give poorer countries a greater sentatives of developed and est nations, although necessary, addressing the crisis, experts letters for legal and other concerns. voice in economic policies. developing countries, was expect- does not lead to solutions based must not forget the economic In particular, steps are needed Mail letters to: Today’s Catholic, ed to propose steps to respond to on exclusive agreements,” it said. fragility of Africa and the urgent to curb the abuses of offshore P.O. Box 11169, Fort Wayne, IN the current crisis. The statement said that under local needs of the continent. 46856-1169; or e-mail: financial institutions, which many The Vatican statement said it the present economic system, When designing a response, it [email protected] see as one of the causes of the was important that solutions do “the poor countries are financing said, world leaders should follow financial meltdown, said a state- not favor rich countries at the the rich countries” through the the principles of subsidiarity and ISSN 0891-1533 ment drafted by the Pontifical continuing expense of poorer movement of private capital and solidarity, which are key elements USPS 403630 Council for Justice and Peace. countries. government reserves, which are of the church’s social teaching. NOVEMBER 30, 2008 TODAY’S CATHOLIC 3 PATRICK CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1
ents, who gave her a kiss and a rose, which she took to the altar of the Blessed Mother. In his homily, Father Ascheman said that the presence of the young people dressed so colorfully emphasized the glory of the feast of Christ the King, the kingdom of God and the destina- tion of all of us, a place where there are no language barriers, no color lines and where everyone is welcome. Father displayed his white alb and described how children pre- sented for baptism wear white, how first Communicants and brides wear white, symbolizing CNS PHOTO/CHRIS HELGREN, REUTERS purity and the kingdom of heaven, Pope Benedict XVI greets the crowd gathered in St. Peter’s Square during his weekly Angelus address at the and how, when one’s body is Vatican Nov. 23. brought into church for a funeral, the casket is draped in white as a final reminder of baptismal vows when we are told to avoid stain Self-interest can lead the world throughout our lives. The gold in his vestments represents our mem- bership in the royal family of to ruin, Pope Benedict XVI says heaven. TESS STEFFEN To give meaning to their dedi- Jazmine Dominguez approaches catory prayer offering to help the altar of the Blessed Mother to Gospel message, then we make comed me,’ and so on,” he said. those most in need, the food eaten BY JOHN THAVIS present a rose on the feast of space for the rule of God and his “Who does not know this pas- at the highly festive party follow- Christ the King. ing the Mass, was sold, with the kingdom is realized among us. If sage? It is part of our civilization. proceeds contributed to a “school VATICAN CITY (CNS) — instead everyone thinks only of It has marked the history of the roof fund” at St. Patrick Parish, Without the practice of Christian his own interests, the world can peoples of Christian culture: the which already has $36,426.99 on Sister Alodia Carney, OLVM, charity, the world today risks a only go to ruin,” the pope said. hierarchy of values, the institu- hand. contributed to this story. disastrous fixation on personal The pope said Christ used tions, the various humanitarian self-interest, Pope Benedict XVI clear language to describe how and social works,” he said. said. people will be judged by God, as The pope said Christians need The pope made his remarks at related in the Gospel of St. to remember that the kingdom of a noon blessing Nov. 23, the feast Matthew. God is not a question of honors Poll shows overwhelming of Christ the King. Addressing “The images are simple and and appearances, but of justice, pilgrims from his apartment win- the language is popular, but the peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. dow above St. Peter’s Square, he message is extremely important: God will welcome those who support for immigration said Christ made it clear that his it is the truth about our ultimate work daily to carry out his teach- kingdom, while not of this world, destiny and about the criteria by ings, not the hypocrites who talk works within human history to which we will be evaluated: ‘For about Christ but fail to put his reform among Catholics bring about all that is good. I was hungry and you gave me commandments into practice, he “If we put into practice love food, I was thirsty and you gave said. for our neighbor, following the WASHINGTON — A recent of Migration and Refugee me drink, a stranger and you wel- Zogby poll of Catholics nation- Services of the USCCB. “It is wide showed overwhelming sup- clear that those opposed to a port for reform of our nation’s legalization of the undocumented immigration laws, with Catholics are a minority,” he added. Pope prays for victims of 1932-33 supporting a path to citizenship In other findings, 64 percent for the estimated 12 million of Catholics opposed the con- undocumented persons in the struction of a wall along the U.S. Ukrainian famine country. border with Mexico, while three cent victims of this tremendous BY JOHN THAVIS The poll conducted Oct. 17- out of four Catholics agree that tragedy,” he said. 20, included a sample of 1,000 the church has a moral obligation He prayed that Mary might people who self-identified as to help provide for the humani- VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Pope help nations to “proceed along the Roman Catholics and was com- tarian needs of immigrants, Benedict XVI prayed for the vic- way of reconciliation” and con- missioned by Migration and regardless of their legal status. tims of the 1932-33 “Great front current problems “in mutual Refugee Services of the United Todd Scribner, education coor- Famine” that left millions dead in respect and in the sincere search States Conference of Catholic dinator for MRS/USCCB, stated Ukraine and other parts of the for peace.” Bishops (MRS/USCCB). It had a that the poll results demonstrated Soviet Union. Historians disagree about the margin of error of +/- 3.2 per- that the efforts of the U.S. bish- In an apparent reference to the exact death toll from the famine, centage points. ops to educate Catholics on the Soviet policies of collectivization but many estimate that between About 69 percent of Catholics realities of immigration are bear- and food confiscation that pro- six million and eight million peo- polled supported a path to citi- ing fruit. voked the famine, the pope con- ple died across parts of the Soviet zenship for undocumented immi- “Catholics are generally in demned ideologically based gov- Union. Ukraine, the agricultural grants, provided they register agreement with their bishops that ernmental actions that violate heart of the Soviet Union, was the with the government; 62 percent there needs to be a comprehen- basic human rights. hardest hit. supported the concept if they sive and humane solution to our He made the remarks at a noon The government of Ukraine, were required to learn English. immigration problems,” Scribner blessing at the Vatican Nov. 23, at which became independent in The U.S. Catholic bishops have said. “The strong educational a time when many Ukrainians 1991, has condemned the famine long endorsed a path to citizen- efforts of the bishops, through the were commemorating the 75th as an act of genocide against ship for undocumented persons Justice for Immigrants Campaign anniversary of the Holodomor, or Ukrainians and wants the United that would include requirements and their own teachings, have “death by hunger,” the name given Nations to issue a similar state- to register with the government helped generate support in the to the famine that occurred in the ment. The United States and and to learn English. Catholic community for compre- Soviet Ukraine. CNS PHOTO/CHRIS HELGREN, REUTERS Canada are among the govern- “These results show that, like hensive reform.” Speaking in Ukrainian, the Pilgrims wave Ukrainian flags as ments that have also recognized other Americans, Catholics want The U.S. bishops launched an pope recalled that the famine Pope Benedict XVI gives his the famine as genocide. a solution to the challenge of ille- educational initiative in 2005, under the Soviet regime of Josef Angelus address in St. Peter’s Russian officials recently called gal immigration and support entitled the Justice for Stalin caused millions to die of Square at the Vatican Nov. 23. the famine a “humanitarian undocumented immigrants Immigrants Campaign, to educate starvation. tragedy” but have rejected accusa- becoming full members of our Catholics on the need for com- “I express the strong hope that the rights of the human person and tions of genocide. Russia has communities and nation,” said prehensive immigration reform. no longer will any political order, his freedom and dignity, and I accused the United States of trying Johnny Young, executive director in the name of an ideology, deny assure my prayers for all the inno- to politicize the catastrophe. 4 TODAY’ S CATHOLIC NOVEMBER 30, 2008 Food pantries facing double whammy of greater need, fewer donors
BY MARY IAPALUCCI King said more families are Melaney Swenson, director of being forced to apply for food Catholic Charities of Idaho’s stamps and now that food prices regional office in Boise, said RIVERHEAD, N.Y. (CNS) — have risen, the food budget runs what’s scary about the current eco- While economic indicators contin- out earlier in the month. This win- nomic downturn isn’t the number ue to tumble, the number of people ter, with high heating costs, could of homeowners coming in looking turning to parish food pantries put more families over the edge, for mortgage help. It isn’t the continues to climb. In many cases, she added. increase in the number of people pantries are struggling to meet the “The supply and demand are who have lost good-paying jobs increased demand. not meeting,” said Veronica and need counseling for the first “We used to be able to fill up Kennedy of the Society of St. time. What’s scariest is that the the shelves. Now, soon as it’s Vincent de Paul of Portland, worst is yet to come. there, it goes out,” said Father Tom adding that the charity’s central “I’ve never seen anything on Coby, pastor of St. John the emergency services office is “inun- this kind of scale before,” she said Evangelist Parish in Riverhead, dated with big lines.” Nov. 11. where the number of people seek- Things aren’t any better in Only the agency response to ing help has nearly doubled in America’s heartland. When three Hurricane Katrina could begin to recent months. other family members moved in compare with the impact of the According to Mary Rubert, with Pam Andrews and her hus- country’s current economic crisis, coordinator of social ministry at band last year, she started visiting she said. The difference between the parish, they used to serve Catholic Charities’ Branch I food the demand for aid then and now between 350 and 400 people a shelf in Minneapolis. Now she is that people were able to donate month. In August, that number needs the food shelf more than generously to rebuild Gulf coast rose to 454. It jumped to 560 in ever to stretch the family’s month- communities. Today, people just September and more than 600 peo- ly budget, she said. don’t have the money to give, ple in October. Andrews, 56, had used the food Swenson said. Across the country it’s the same shelf off and on over the years It’s particularly devastating story. At People of Progress, a when she and her husband hit when a landlord loses a home, food bank and emergency assis- rough times. However, whenever because all his renters are left to tance charity in Redding, Calif., they were doing well, Andrews find housing. Swenson said executive director Melinda Brown said she volunteered at the shelf Interfaith Sanctuary, a family shel- said that she’s seeing “more and and donated food “to give back.” ter that opened in downtown Boise more new people, and a lot of Even with the help provided by last year with the help of a dioce- working people, which is new.” the food shelf, however, there’s san loan, reported that it is at or The working people are getting still not enough food, she said. The near capacity every night. food from the charity to make their three adults have skipped breakfast Many of the new clients she’s paychecks stretch to the end of the CNS GRAPHIC/NANCY WIECHEC regularly for about four months so seen are homeless for the first month, she said. “We’re seeing Just about 89 percent of U.S. households were “food secure” in 2007. the two children — ages 9 and 2 time, or have a history of chronic people who have never asked for That means household members had access at all times to enough food — get their fill. homelessness but have been in sta- help before.” for an active, healthy life. Andrews is aghast at the price ble housing and were thought to A new report from the of milk, lunch meat and coffee, have escaped the latest plight. Economic Research Service of the cure households (4.7 million, or ing for lunch at the Society of St. items she said she can’t get at the “Losing your home is a terrible U.S. Department of Agriculture 4.1 percent of all U.S. households) Vincent de Paul in San Mateo. food shelf. place to be,” she said. showed that in 2007 13 million had very low food security, that is, “It’s seem like the line is get- “You can barely touch beef New York City budget cuts will households experienced “food the food intake of some household ting longer every day,” said now,” she said. “And fresh pro- keep more than 20 parishes in the insecurity,” meaning their access members was reduced and their Slepnitkoff, a parolee who is stay- duce is completely out of sight.” Queens borough from opening to adequate food was limited by a normal eating patterns disrupted ing in a friend’s carport as he At food pantries around the St. their homeless shelters this winter. lack of money and other resources. during 2007. works with the society to line up Louis metro area, bad economic Eva Vitti-Sterling, parish man- That was 11.1 percent of all U.S. In the San Francisco area, permanent housing. St. Vincent de news is old news. Even so, a dra- ager at St. Andrew Avellino Parish households. George Slepnitkoff has noticed a Paul officials say they have seen a matic increase has been seen in the in Flushing, said the closing of the About one-third of food-inse- lot of new faces among those wait- marked increase in meals served requests for free food in recent shelter ends a mutual relationship since August at the agency’s loca- months. that has lasted more than a quarter- tions in South San Francisco and “Hunger is winning,” said century. San Mateo. Circle of Concern director Glenn For 26 years parishioners had The San Mateo location served Koenen. On World Food Day, Oct. provided home-cooked meals for 1,800 meals in October, compared 16, he said there were “more hun- the men, stayed overnight in the with 1,500 for a typical month, gry people in St. Louis, more hun- shelter, talked with and played according to Lorraine Moriarty, gry people in Missouri and Illinois games with the men, and made executive director. and more hungry people around them breakfast in the morning, she In the central Oregon city of the world.” said. Bend, “requests have increased A record number of people are The men “felt safe here,” and tremendously,” said Christine asking Circle of Concern and other were able to leave their “meager King, who directs social services food pantries for help, he noted. belongings” under the beds during for the Society of St. Vincent de Demand is up 20 percent from last the day, Vitti-Sterling said. Paul there. Food pantry shelves are year at his agency. Parishioners had the “joy of shar- now depleted early each week. “At Circle we now feed as ing,” as is stated in their parish The most frightening statistic, many people in a week as we did mission statement: “We strive to King said, is the number receiving in a month just a decade ago,” be a caring, welcoming and inclu- aid for the first time in October — Koenen said. “Without more sive Christian community growing about triple what was normal just a resources winter will be bleak for in our faith formation and our year ago. many of our neighbors.” commitment to serving others.” Talk Radio Where God Matters Fort Wayne’s Kresta in the Afternoon Most Complete Weekdays 4 to 6 pm Wedding Service. On listener supported Redeemer Radio, Catholic radio AM 1450 You can choose one or all Banquet Rooms of our services. We’ll make the best of Hotel Rooms crystal clear live streaming audio 24/7 @ your special event. 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BY ED LANGLOIS years. There are safeguards in required to fight the Dust Bowl place to prevent a financial cata- and where federal road projects clysm like the Great Depression, put local men to work. PORTLAND, Ore. (CNS) — they say. Barnes joined the Coast Guard Although Mary Barnes did not “Let’s hope so,” Barnes told during World War II when she know much about the 1929 stock the Catholic Sentinel, newspaper was in her early 20s. She came to market crash that occurred when of the Portland Archdiocese. Portland in 1952, invited by a she was 5, she knew something Looking back at her growing- priest who asked her to do cleri- was awry in the world. up years, Barnes said the family cal work at a magazine published Barnes, born Mary Oster, and farm was seven miles from the by the Jesuits. She later worked her seven siblings, were shielded nearest town, which had 100 resi- in banks’ loan departments. from the family’s budget woes by dents. The farmhouse had no She draws a pension from the KATHY DENICE their parents. electricity in the Depression Southern Pacific Railroad, where Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Fort Wayne-South Bend hosted the But on the family farm in years. She never liked the out- her husband, who died 11 years Cultural Orientation Resource workshop in the Archbishop Noll Catholic South Dakota, dust smothered the house and heartily welcomed ago, worked for more than 40 Center on Nov. 18-19. Shown here is a workshop participant with work- crops, and one year when plants indoor plumbing when it finally years. shop presenters. actually grew the air was thick came. To deal with today’s economic with grasshoppers. She also Like her sisters, she was a problems, Barnes prescribes remembers many hungry-looking tomboy who milked cows and cooperation she remembers from broad-based and includes assis- men and women wandering past worked in the fields. her days on the farm. For exam- tance with housing, employment, the farm looking for work. “I really don’t know how we ple, she admires the idea of com- transportation, education, health Now 85, Barnes lives in managed,” Barnes said. The fam- munity gardens. CULTURE issues, money management and decidedly undusty Portland, ily had ample food, maybe Perhaps because of her days of CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 cultural adjustment. In addition, where she raised four children of because they butchered their own wind, dust and poverty, Barnes is refugees need help in understand- her own. When she recommends meat, raised chickens, baked their still resourceful and generous. ing their rights and responsibili- the need to be thrifty, her brood own bread and grew vegetables She supports her parish, the (Burma and Vietnam), Latin ties and tapping into community teases her for having “a and fruit when the weather Archdiocese of Portland and America (Cuba), and the Near services. Depression mentality.” allowed. The mother churned other charitable groups with sig- East and South Asia (Bhutan, It’s a huge task, but the dedi- “I think we’re more cautious butter and sold it to the store for nificant donations. Iran, Iraq). In all, refugee num- cated professionals gathered for and we’re more frugal,” Barnes credit. She also gives in smaller bers totaled more than 60,000 last week’s workshop were eager said of her generation. “Also, we “Everybody lived pretty sim- ways. She often bakes sweet rolls nationally in 2008. to share their knowledge and are more appreciative of the ply,” she said, “but everyone was for the parish Bible study and is Bebic pointed out that cultural gain further perspective from the things we have. We used it up, in same boat.” also sure to make extra rolls for orientation is required by law to day’s presenters. They left with wore it out and made do.” To get by, people helped one any unexpected guests. help these new residents adjust to new ideas to apply to the ongo- Her health is excellent; she another. Her father hired workers, life in the local community and ing process of refugee orientation suffers a few aches and pains and mostly farm youths from big elsewhere. That orientation is in the Fort Wayne area. a little blood pressure irregularity. families. The Osters took them Most days, she walks 18 blocks in, fed them and tended to their to St. Ignatius Church in Portland clothing. Editor’’s Note: Share your stories St. Joe Christmas Tree Farm for daily Mass. When dust storms appeared on with Today’s Catholic about As an economic dip not unlike the horizon, her mother would growing up during the what happened in the 1930s bears light a candle and huddle with Depression. What can families OPEN DAILY down on the United States, her children to recite the rosary. learn about that time in Nov. 28 through Dec. 20 Barnes is unperturbed. Many of As fierce as the summer sand- American history that can help Oregon’s elderly have fretted storms were, winter brought deep us with today’s economic down- •Choose and cut your own considerably as the 2008 stock snowdrifts that did not melt until turn? How did the church, faith Christmas tree drop has cut into their retirement April. interact with the tough economic savings, but Barnes is confident it Barnes recalled listening to times? How did you deal with •Large selection of Pre-cuts will bounce back. radio programs with her family the Thanksgiving and Christmas •Wreaths, Garland, & Greenery She has not bothered looking and hearing results from the 1932 holidays during the Depression? •Unique Ornaments & Gifts at her investments, much less presidential election. She was Send your comments before moved them. confident that the new president, Dec. 5 to [email protected] in Our Shop Many economists agree with Franklin D. Roosevelt, would fwsb.org or mail to Today’s www.stjoetreefarm.com Barnes that there will be short- change American lives profound- Catholic, Attn. Tim Johnson, Judy & Mike Reifenberg term pain, but that the markets ly, including life around the Oster P.O. Box 11169, Fort Wayne, IN (St. Charles parishioners) will recover in the next two farm, where planting trees was 46856. 9801 St. Joe Road • Fort Wayne 46835 260-486-4336 Mary Barnes, a survivor of the Great Depression, holds a photo at her home in Portland, Ore., in late October. The Perfect Gift... Barnes, who says she emerged Start a Family Tradition with Fontanini Collectibles from the Great Depression cau- tious and appre- ciative, grew up on a farm in South Dakota in the 1930s.
Stop in today and choose from our extensive selection of Village buildings, Nativity sets, figures and accessories. Divine Mercy Gifts 320 Dixie Way North • (574) 277-1400 South Bend 46637 • 1/2 mile north of Notre Dame on US 933
is imported from Italy exclusively by CNS PHOTO/ED LANGLOIS, CATHOLIC SENTINEL 6 TODAY’ S CATHOLIC NOVEMBER 30, 2008 Washington. Washington Japanese martyrs Archbishop Donald W. Wuerl beatifiedin Nagasaki praised the appointment during a press conference at the archdio- VATICAN CITY (CNS) — cese’s pastoral center, calling the Christian martyrdom is the fullest new bishop “a native son of this expression of human freedom and NEWS BRIEFS archdiocese. He was born, formed reflects the supreme act of love, in the faith and educated here. He said a top Vatican official at a Mass enjoys extensive personal experi- beatifying 188 Japanese martyrs. ence of this church and a sense of "It is not the punishment or the tor- WOMAN DISPLACED BY WAR SLEEPS ON BELONGINGS continuity with its pastoral life.” ture that creates a martyr," but rather the fact the person suffered and died for Christ, Cardinal Jose Group prays that U.S. Saraiva Martins, former prefect of treasury secretary will the Vatican Congregation for Saints' Causes, said during the beat- halt foreclosures ification Mass in Nagasaki, Japan, Nov. 24. The 188 17th-century WASHINGTON (CNS) — Japanese martyrs were tortured and Berenice Ramos never thought she killed in different cities between and her family would have their 1606 and 1639 after the Japanese house lost in foreclosure. Ramos, government outlawed Christianity. 39, is a financial planner. “What According to Vatican Radio, more about that, huh?” she said as she than 30,000 people attended the shook her head. Her husband has ceremony in the city's baseball sta- been in the flooring business for 20 dium to celebrate the beatification years. Ramos herself took in addi- of Jesuit Father Peter Kibe Kasui tional income cleaning houses. and 187 companions. After his Nov. “This was our third house,” she told 23 Angelus address to pilgrims Catholic News Service about the gathered in St. Peter's Square, Pope house where she and her husband Benedict XVI said the martyrs' and three children lived for three beatification marked a significant years until it was foreclosed on in event for the Catholic Church and November. They bought the house all of Japan. The pope asked people for $580,000 and had a monthly to "rejoice" and pray the beatified payment of $3,000. But after a two- martyrs' "victory in Christ over sin year freeze on the interest rate ended, the payment shot up to and death fill us all with hope and CNS PHOTO/FINBARR O’REILLY, REUTERS courage." $4,600. By the time they were A woman displaced by war sleeps on her belongings at the Don Bosco center in Goma, forced out of the house, the pay- ment had neared $5,000, said Same-sex marriage not a eastern Congo, Nov. 20. Fighting in eastern Congo has displaced hundreds of thousands Ramos, a member of Holy Rosary of civilians, and more than 1,500 people have taken shelter at the Salesian-run center. Parish in Antioch, Calif. The family matter of human rights, now rents a house two blocks from says Maine bishop the home they lost. Asked if she even applause, from the gathering visionaries and Kibeho onlookers California. At least two of the knew others whose homes have PORTLAND, Maine (CNS) — of academics, educators, youth that the local priest recorded and three fires were contained by Nov. gone into foreclosure, Ramos Allowing same-sex couples to ministers, bishops, catechists and played to his parish. 19, and that same day local offi- replied, “Too many, too many.” marry would strip marriage of its other leaders. The symposium, held cials said the third fire, in Los Ramos and about 100 other mem- essential component — the creation Nov. 5-8 at the Maritime Institute Angeles County, was close to bers of the Oakland, Calif.-based of new life — and render it mean- and Conference Center in Vatican opens Pope being contained. News reports PICO National Network converged ingless and “open it up to endless Linthicum, was a project of three Benedict bookstore said that one of the fires might on the sidewalk outside the revision and redefinition,” Bishop national Catholic youth formation have been started accidentally by Treasury Building, next to the Richard J. Malone of Portland said groups brought together in one outside St. Peter’s Square some college students. Twenty White House, for a prayer service in a letter to Catholics in the organization called the Partnership people, including firefighters, Nov. 18. statewide diocese. The bishop for Adolescent Catechesis. VATICAN CITY (CNS) — In a were injured. One fatality was defended traditional marriage, writ- world filled with conflicting mes- reported; a 98-year-old man died ing that he believes opposing its sages, people should be able to during the evacuation process near Kenyan cardinal says redefinition is a matter of faith, rea- Book on Rwandan find books that explain Catholic downtown Santa Barbara. The church will resist moves son and a concern for the good of Marian apparitions to be Church teaching near every largest concentration of destruc- society. “To claim that marriage is a Catholic Church, said the Vatican tion took place north of Los to legalize abortion civil right open to all forms of rela- released on anniversary secretary of state. Cardinal Angeles in Sylmar’s Oak Ridge NAIROBI, Kenya (CNS) — The tionships is a misnomer,” he said in Tarcisio Bertone, Pope Benedict Mobile Home Park, where 484 Catholic Church will resist any the mid-November letter drafted WASHINGTON (CNS) — Like XVI’s top aide, spoke at the Nov. homes out of 600 in the park were moves to legalize abortion in after several Christian ministers at a many stories from Africa, the 18 opening of the Pope Benedict lost to the fire. Those included 39 Kenya, said Cardinal John Njue of news conference days earlier called story of Mary appearing to three XVI International Bookstore just homes of parishioners of St. Nairobi. Cardinal Njue, president for the state to legalize same-sex young girls in Rwanda “wasn’t outside St. Peter’s Square. The Didacus Church and the home of of the Kenya Episcopal marriage. “Marriage is an institu- told” beyond the continent, said store is a joint operation of the Barbara Barreda, principal of St. Conference, led hundreds of tion that predates civilization, best-selling author Immaculee Vatican publishing house, the Elizabeth School in Van Nuys. Catholics into the streets to demon- ordained by God, and exclusive to Ilibagiza. So Ilibagiza wrote the Vatican newspaper’s photographic Another parishioner’s home was strate against the Reproductive one man and one woman who are first English-language book about service and the Vatican’s stamp severely damaged, and many Health and Rights Bill 2008, which given the responsibility to procreate Mary’s apparitions in the 1980s at and coin office. The Vatican pub- parishioners were evacuated to would legalize abortion. He said the the human race and to nurture, edu- an all-girls Catholic high school in lishing house also operates the nearby shelters. cate and pass on shared values and the remote Rwandan village of tiny Pope John Paul II bill should be opposed at all costs. mores to their offspring,” Bishop Kibeho, the only Vatican-recog- International Bookstore in St. Urging legislators to vote against Malone wrote. nized Marian apparitions in Peter’s Square and the Pope Paul Washington vicar for the measure, he reminded them Africa. “Our Lady of Kibeho” was VI International Bookstore near they were sent to parliament by vot- to be released Nov. 28, the Rome’s Spanish Steps in the administration named ers to make good laws. The cardi- ‘Don’t water it down,’ anniversary of the first apparition building that houses the auxiliary bishop nal, who celebrated Mass at in 1981. Calling “Our Lady of Congregation for the Nairobi’s Holy Family Minor says young Catholics Kibeho” “the most important book Evangelization of Peoples. WASHINGTON (CNS) — Pope Basilica Nov. 15 after the demon- LINTHICUM, Md. (CNS) — I will write,” Ilibagiza told Benedict XVI has named Msgr. stration, described abortion as mur- Megan Nappi didn’t mince words Catholic News Service in a tele- Barry C. Knestout, vicar for der and said it showed disrespect as she sat in a circle with young phone interview Nov. 20 that she Southern California fires administration for the Washington for life and human dignity. “We adults from Baltimore and can remember hearing about the leave thousands Archdiocese, as an auxiliary bish- have come here not to condemn Washington, surrounded by some apparitions from her father at the op of Washington. The appoint- anybody, but (to condemn) the act of the nation’s leading adolescent dinner table, a place where her homeless in four counties ment was announced Nov. 18 in itself. We hope the lawmakers we catechesis experts during the four- close family gathered nightly to Washington by Archbishop Pietro have sent to parliament will confine share the stories of the day and LOS ANGELES (CNS) — Sambi, apostolic nuncio to the (themselves) to making good but day National Symposium on Catholic communities in four Adolescent Catechesis. Asked what talk about religion. “My dad said, United States. Bishop-designate not destructive laws such as this ‘You won’t believe what hap- Southern California counties Knestout, 46, a lifelong resident of attempt to have abortion legalized advice she would give on teen faith rushed to the assistance of dozens formation, the University of pened; the Virgin Mary appeared the archdiocese, has held the post in the country,” said the cardinal. to a girl in Kibeho,’” Ilibagiza of parish families who were left as vicar and as moderator of the Without elaborating further, Maryland student and member of without their homes by a week of Our Lady of the Fields Parish in recalled. She said she learned the curia for the archdiocese since Cardinal Njue said the forces details of the Marian apparitions wind-driven brush fires that began 2007. He will be ordained a bish- behind the move to have abortion Millersville told the 100 attendees Nov. 13. Three wildfires scorched there: “Don’t water it down.” The from family talk, village chatter op Dec. 29 during ceremonies at legalized in the country were for- and the tape recordings of the 42,000 acres and destroyed nearly St. Matthew Cathedral in eign. response drew audible gasps, and 1,000 residences in Southern NOVEMBER 30, 2008 TODAY’ S CATHOLIC 7
nity, in harmony with the diocese University of and Bishop John M. D’Arcy. Looking ahead to the start of its fourth year of operation, Saint Francis Redeemer Radio is a local inde- pendent Catholic radio apostolate presents Living AROUND THE DIOCESE that serves the Catholic communi- ty of Fort Wayne, northeast Nativity Indiana and northwest Ohio by broadcasting the truth and beauty FORT WAYNE — In 1223, ST. JOSEPH-HESSEN CASSEL BLESSES BLESSED MOTHER of the Catholic faith. The station is Francis of Assisi led a group of operated by a local nonprofit worshippers in the Italian village of group of lay Catholics, financially Greccio in their celebration of our STATUE IN MEMORY OF ROBERT HERBER separate from the diocese of Fort Lord’s birth by reenacting the first Wayne-South Bend, and depend- Christmas. Thus began the tradi- ent on the support of listeners. tion of a Christmas crèche. As Advent begins, the staff and stu- dents of the university present a Matthew Kelly to speak Living Nativity as a witness to the in Huntington power of the presence of God’s love incarnate in the world. The HUNTINGTON — Matthew character of St. Francis will narrate Kelly, world renown speaker and the Christmas story and those gath- author, will present his Christmas ered will sing “Silent Night.” The message on Dec. 16 at 7:30 p.m. Living Nativity will be staged in at Ss. Peter and Paul Church, 860 the amphitheater next to the Pope Cherry St. John Paul II Center on the shore of The presentation is open to the Mirror Lake on Sunday, Dec. 7, at public, with babysitting provided 6 p.m. Parking is available off in Gollner Hall. Leesburg Road. No charge for Kelly is author of several admission. A petting zoo with the books including New York best animals for the Living Nativity will sellers, “Rhythm of Life” and be available for children from 5 to “The Dream Manager” and travels 6 p.m. free of charge at the Living across the country with speaking Nativity site. engagements. Originally from Another display at University Australia, Kelly currently resides of Saint Francis is St. Francis and in Cincinnati, Ohio where he con- the Christmas Crèche open Dec. ducts retreats as well. 4-12 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (week- days only) and Sunday, Dec. 7, Bishop Dwenger holds from 12-8 p.m. Learn about St. Francis’ devo- Christmas concert tion to the birth of Jesus at this TIM JOHNSON FORT WAYNE — The Bishop beautiful display of Nativity Dwenger High School music scenes from around the world. In Father Thomas Lombardi, pastor of St. Joseph-Hessen Cassel Parish, blesses a statue of department’s Christmas concert, addition, there will be short pre- the Blessed Mother surrounded by students, staff and parents of St. Joseph School on Sounds of the Season, will be held sentations on Franciscan tradition on Sunday, Dec. 14, beginning at in adjoining classrooms on Dec. 7. Nov. 19. The statue is a memorial to Principal Robert Herber who died in June. Herber 2 p.m. in the main gym. This is a free event located in the Performing ensembles include the Lupke Gallery in the North had a special devotion to the Blessed Mother and the rosary. St. Joseph School Principal Percussion Ensemble, Concert Campus Building. Louise Schultheis told Today’s Catholic that students contributed money to wear jeans Band, Orchestra, Jazz Band, for a day and were able to raise half of the money to purchase the statue. Father Concert Choir and Advanced Bishop Luers offers events Choir. Admission is free. for fall, winter Lombardi offered the additional funds. FORT WAYNE — An open house The “Cast Your Vote for for holiday fellowship, brunch and Redeemer Radio releases Catholic Radio” Fall Sharathon to support Bishop Luers High STUDENTS REMEMBER THE DECEASED was hosted by Jerry Usher at the School will be Dec. 14 from 11:30 results of fall sharathon studios of Redeemer Radio. Usher a.m. to 2 p.m. at the home of Mike FORT WAYNE — Redeemer is the host of Catholic radio’s most and Kathi Stonczek, 4220 Old Mill Radio, Catholic Radio AM 1450, popular national program, Rd. Items will be gathered for the WLYV Fort Wayne, would like to “Catholic Answers Live,” heard Luers Knight dinner/auction in thank the thousands of listeners on Redeemer Radio weekdays April 2009. Make reservations by who made the “Cast Your Vote for from 6 to 8, mornings and Dec. 10 to the school at (260) 456- Catholic Radio” Fall Sharathon an evenings. Throughout sharathon, 1261. astonishing success. In the midst Usher was joined by local and The drama department’s of economic worries and political national guests who gave of their Christmas production will be uncertainty, the supporters of time and shared their perspectives “Children of Eden,” performed on Redeemer Radio contributed more on the vital importance of Dec. 5, at 7:30 p.m., Dec. 6, at 7:30 than $170,000 during three days Catholic radio to the local com- p.m. and Dec. 7, at 2 p.m. in the of sharathon from Oct. 22-24. The munity. Other local Catholics and café. Limited seating is available sharathon exceeded the station’s non-Catholics volunteered, for $8 each and must be purchased goal of by more than $20,000, answered phones, took pledges in advance or reserved. To purchase with donations being pledged and assisted the Redeemer Radio or reserve tickets, call Sue Mathias even after sharathon officially staff. at (260) 456-1261 ext. 3114. ended. Especially notable was the par- The annual Christmas concert Chris Langford, president of ticipation of priests and parishes will be presented by the performing Redeemer Radio, declared, “All from across the diocese of Fort arts department on Wednesday, of us at Redeemer Radio feel very Wayne-South Bend. Twenty-two Dec. 10, at 7 p.m. in the gym. The blessed by the tremendous priests gave of their time in the concert is free of charge. Enter response of our listeners to our fall studio, and 17 parishes were rep- through door No. 5. sharathon. Even during these chal- resented. Usher commented, “... A scholarship exam for interest- lenging times, our generous listen- Redeemer Radio is blessed with ed eighth-grade students will be ers went above and beyond the more priests participating than the Saturday, Dec. 6, from 8-11:30 a.m. total from last fall sharathon, thus total from all the other sharathons Students will take a test to qualify enabling Redeemer Radio to con- I have anchored this fall.” for scholarship money available tinue serving our Catholic com- The contributions of local CAROLYN KIRKENDALL based on their academic ability and munity and proclaiming the truth Catholics during the “Cast Your placement on the test. A total of St. Joseph Catholic School students processed to St. Rose and beauty of our Catholic faith Vote for Catholic Radio” Fall $10,000 is available towards fresh- for many months to come. I would Sharathon will go a long way in Cemetery, Monroeville, to pray the rosary and visit the man year tuition. A test fee of $10 also like to thank our staff and the permitting Redeemer Radio to per student is payable at the door. gravesites of families and friends. They do this annually to host of volunteers and gift donors carry on its mission to evangelize Visit www.bishopluers.org for who made this successful pledge the Catholic faith through radio commemorate the month of November dedicated to the more details. drive possible.” and to serve the Catholic commu- Poor Souls. 8 TODAY’ S CATHOLIC NOVEMBER 30, 2008 ‘What Would Mary Do?’ Christ Child’s holiday benefit aims Moms foster faith, friendship in new group to keep children warm
BY CAROLINE B. MOONEY School, Lafayette; and Lisa Cooley, school counselor at St. BY KAREN CLIFFORD Mary and St. Lawrence schools LAFAYETTE — After conversa- here. tions at school events, two friends Cooley spoke about how to SOUTH BEND — It’s Nov. 20, felt a need to give busy Catholic develop character and moral val- 2008 in South Bend, Indiana, and moms a chance to get together and ues in children, and how to combat 476 guests prepare to sit down for explore their faith. “We want to be the problem of bullying, using a delicious lunch at the Gillespie as formed in our faith as our kids examples from the book “Building Center near Saint Mary’s College. are,” said Noreen Beardmore, a Moral Intelligence” by Michelle The South Bend Christ Child parishioner of St. Boniface Borba. “Moral intelligence is the Society is holding its annual Church. capacity to understand right from Holiday Benefit Luncheon and a “Last November, Lara (Behr, a wrong,” Cooley said. “It means to program that includes a silent auc- parishioner of the Cathedral of St. have strong ethical convictions and tion, raffle baskets and a fashion Mary of the Immaculate to act on them so that one behaves show. Those in attendance are Conception) and I called about 20 in the right and honorable way.” ready to unwind and enjoy. moms and invited them to talk She identified several virtues But what most do not compre- with us about what they would — empathy, conscience, self-con- hend is the months of work that want out of such a group,” she told trol, respect, kindness, tolerance have led up to this event. Jan The Catholic Moment, newspaper and fairness — which, if “they Williams, who is chairing the for the Diocese of Lafayette-in- were combined into one, could Holiday Benefit Luncheon for her Indiana. “They fired out a lot of eliminate bullying and teasing. second year, describes the under- stuff and basically said that if they That’s our goal, but it’s not a per- lying reason for holding the lunch- were going to leave their chaotic fect world.” eon. “At the heart of the mission houses, meetings would have to be Jennifer Page, a cathedral is to help keep the children of our substantive.” parishioner, said she found herself community warm,” Williams Thus, the “What Would Mary agreeing with many points the explains. “All efforts have that in Do?” (WWMD) group was speakers made. “The talks were a mind, so if we can have fun rais- formed. good reminder of a lot of things ing the money to help this mission The group began meeting we should be doing.” along we will. We stretch every nickel in order to purchase as KAREN CLIFFORD monthly in December 2007. Most Cari Gothard, also from the Sherry Burke bids on the Christmas gift decoration in the silent auction. meetings include speakers, with cathedral, said she enjoys the much clothing as we are able and time allotted for socialization. All meetings because “it brings togeth- to serve as many children as pos- mothers are welcome to attend. er all moms. Preschool, grade sible.” to donate auction items, publicity, There were 485 ribbons and “This is not a group that has all school, high school, even some South Bend Christ Child assisting in the silent auction and numerous wire flowers to cut. the answers, but it is to remind us college moms — we’re all moms. President Sue Uhran, stresses that raffle baskets tables, decorations, Riley recalls one funny story from that we are not alone,” Beardmore No matter what age our kids are, all proceeds from the event go to greeting and modeling in the a decorations volunteer; “when said. “We’re not talking about moms have the same problems, clothe the children of the Talbot’s fashion show. she went to get a manicure she being ‘uber-moms’ — we are all in just at different levels. That’s what Michiana area. “No one at Christ “The Christ Child Society is was asked — ‘what happened to this together. We always want to I like. How can I connect with this Child is paid,” Uhran remarks. made up of women who are “go- your hands?’ Cutting those wire have time to socialize so moms mom who has a senior in high “The proceeds from all of our givers,” says Williams. “They are flowers took its toll.” have the opportunity to hear anoth- school when I have a kindergart- fund raising activities go directly women who do what needs to be Kay Houser, chairman of the er strong Catholic mother’s ideas. ner? We have the same problems, back into the purchase of new done, so when they see a need to silent auction sends kudos to those “Moms today are busy,” but she’s more experienced. We clothing for over 4,000 children in fill, no matter what kind of job it who asked for auction items. “I Beardmore said, “we are pulled in get great support. The meetings our community.” is, someone steps up. And usually think solicitations take a very spe- 10 different directions. With our are good and they get great speak- Back in August of this year, it is a team rather than just one cial kind of person. I asked two busy lives, friendships suffer and ers every time.” Williams met with her committee person.” people and my heart was pound- this is a great chance to forge new “In my opinion, you just can’t and by September silent auction On the afternoon before the ing out of my chest,” Houser friendships and spend time with have too many programs like this,” solicitations to the community event volunteers gathered for the recalls. Approximately 200 arti- old friends.” said Monica Water, parishioner of were started. Underwriting for the extensive set up of the luncheon. cles were donated to the silent About 35 women attended a St. Thomas Aquinas, West benefit, which is a significant por- Holiday benefit cochairman auction and included items that recent WWMD meeting with the Lafayette. “I love these programs. tion of the money received for the Andrea Incropera suggested the ranged in value from a framed oil theme “Our Kids are Catholic (But They are repeating what we are all event, was led by Mary Liddell. autumn theme for the occasion. “I painting at $1,000 to a $10 dinner Can You Tell?) — Building the trying to do. I think it’s great that “We have about 30 underwrit- was adamant about not doing a gift certificate at a local restaurant. Christian Virtues in Our Children,” they put it in all of the church bul- ers who have given at least $100 Christmas theme before Raffle Basket volunteers Anne at the cathedral. Speakers for the letins — the meetings are not just donations each, but together they Thanksgiving.” The outcome Eme and Roberta Heeter were evening were Grant Freeman, for one parish, it’s open to every- covered about $10,000 in funds includes table decorations of excited about the enthusiasm and campus minister at Central one.” for our mission. That is one third autumn flowers tied together with sales of the four raffle baskets. Catholic Junior-Senior High of the goal we set to make by fall ribbons, in front of a hurricane Each basket had a theme; A Night hosting this fundraiser,” Williams glass with a cinnamon colored on the Town, Basket of Holiday stresses. candle inside. Cheer, Pamper Me Package and A Williams acknowledges it has Making of the decorations Dash to the Finish (a homemade taken many volunteers to bring began in August, according to quilt). Each basket had a value of this event together. Sixty women decorations chairman Ann Riley. at least $250 and all items were have offered support in this year’s The process of putting together 48 donated by local business and event including asking businesses centerpieces was at times slow. Christ Child members. Proceeds from the entire event Our experienced and professional staff is dedicated which included underwriting, silent auction and raffle basket to providing the highest quality of nursing care. Knights of Columbus sales, and miscellaneous contribu- • Daily Mass tions came to over $30,000. INSURANCE One of the highlights of the • Medicare Certified Making a difference for life. event was the testimonial of two WHOLE LIFE • TERM • RETIREMENT Christ Child clients, Graciela • Secured Neighborhoods for Alzheimer Care ANNUITIES • LONG TERM CARE • IRA Caballero Rhodes and Kathe • Physical, Occupational, & Speech Therapies
‘THE VIRGIN WEIGHED WITH THE WORD OF GOD’
n a Christmas refrain, St. John us to be depositories of joy: “I “When my soul is downcast, I of the Cross wrote: have told you this that my joy may remember ...” I be in you and your joy may be One of the handmaids of joy is The Virgin weighed complete” (Jn 15:11). the virtue of contentment — a With the Word of God Sometimes word-pictures can virtue which seems to have slipped Comes down the road be helpful in elaborating a truth. In through the cracks in our anxious If only you’ll shelter her. the case of joy, we might turn to age. The present Holy Father John of the Cross’ image: “The wrote: In an arresting manner, he Virgin weighed with the Word of “Each one of us points out that if our hearts allow God.” He leaves no doubt that the Is a result of a thought of God. her space and love — if we “shel- Word attached himself to Mary. Each one of us is willed. ter” her as it were — she will truly And redemptive reality remains Each one of us is loved. lead us to Christ. We learn to constant. Our God is Emmanuel Each one of us is necessary.” absorb her redemptive attitudes. — God with us. In baptism, he has And during Advent — a season in given each of us his irrevocable In the pontiff’s mind, each one which we are called to prepare to promise that he will walk with us of us is called upon to contribute give birth to Christ in our hearts throughout our earthly pilgrimage. to the building up of the kingdom and in our world — we will, I On the Lord’s part, this attach- of God in our world (a kingdom of believe, profit immeasurably by ment is a reminder of how much justice, love and peace) and in our journeying with Mary. he loves each one of us. We are in own hearts. Such, of course, is a One of the foundations of his heart. And joy — humanly and lifelong process. In decoding the Mary’s spirituality was and is joy spiritually — springs from the direction God wishes us to take in — a virtue so needed in our heart that loves. Through our dia- our lives, we should go to Mary church and our world. Some soci- logue of love with the Lord we and “Seat of Wisdom” and ask her ologists characterized the past cen- slowly become transformed and to aid and assist us in our search. tury (20th) as a “sad century.” And even externally we begin to radiate Finally, before we leave this so many observers of our contem- joy. reflection, we return to the image porary scene conclude that the sit- The fact that Jesus is our invisi- of Mary as the Woman of the uation does not seem to have ble companion on our earthly pil- Word. She not only heard God’s improved. In our quest for success, grimage has so many ramifica- word but nourished it within. our spiritual instincts seem to have tions. It means I can speak to him As we begin Advent, we should been sterilized. and in times of difficulty, I can pray for the grace to realize that We must never forget that joy is rely upon his strength and support. we are called to the same vocation. a constant in our spiritual tradition. Mary’s prayer, the Magnificat, We must take time (that most Thomas Merton, in “Seeds of is also a prayer of memory. She overlooked of God’s blessings) to Contemplation,” states simply and not only notes the “great things” nourish the Word within ourselves. succinctly: “Do not look for rest in God has done for her on a person- Like Mary, we must reflect upon any pleasure, because you were al level but also his faithfulness to God’s words (both in Scripture not created for pleasures ... you his people Israel. In our own life, and through life’s events) in our were created for spiritual joy.” we should also be trying to culti- hearts. Moreover, Christ himself, vate a type of prayer of memory in His Last Will and — learning to decode times of Msgr.Thomas McDonnell is a retired Testament com- God’s faithfulness to ourselves, priest from the Archdiocese of manded especially in helping us to get through difficult moments. This Boston. He has dedicated his life has always been a staple in the to the urban poor and disabled. A spirituality of God’s peo- cancer survivor, he is the author of ple. Thus the “Walking in the Dark Valley: psalmist could When Cancer is a Constant cry: Companion.” This is the first of a series that will be offered by Today’s Catholic through Advent. 10 TODAY’ S CATHOLIC NOVEMBER 30, 2008 Advent traditions are treasured A simple but by the Peterson family
BY KAREN CLIFFORD ed about, but rather it was a pri- powerful truth vate encounter between the nun and God. In the Peterson house- GRANGER — We live today in a hold, the manger is put in a room cards with a religious message, BY SISTER MARGIE LAVONIS, CSC world of instant gratification. We which is not used frequently, to ones that remind the receiver that seek the perfect life; lots of nice make this experience more person- it is Jesus’ birthday and that the things and lots of pleasures we al. have to admit that it is rare for wonder of the season is that God think will make us happy. Yet as “The idea is to make a nice big me to remember a homily the would actually become a human we search for these elusive objects bed of hay for baby Jesus by Inext day, let alone several years being to show us just how much and obsessions, we often find Christmas,” Kate notes. later. But I do remember one such he loves us. We can also tell each emptiness and feel isolation. With While Adam at 9 months is too homily that a Holy Cross priest person what he or she means to us. the coming of the Advent season, young to participate this year, each gave one Christmas at our mother- (I always feel cheated when some- there is an opportunity for the of the four Peterson girls has their house. He said that while he was one I haven’t heard from for a long Christian community to pause, favorite activities during Advent. praying about what he was going time merely signs his or her name. reflect and prepare together for the Rose, 3, enjoys taking the links to say in his I want to know coming of God’s incarnate Word off the Advent chain on the fire- homily God told what is happen- through the birth of Jesus Christ. place mantel and watching it get him, “Just tell ing in their The Peterson family of St. Pius KAREN CLIFFORD shorter as Christmas draws near. “I them that I love We must go against lives.) X treasures the simplicity and spir- Louisa Peterson adds a straw to like the pink candle of the advent them.” It was a We can also itual anticipation of the season the manger after making a sacri- wreath,” she adds. simple but pow- our culture share God’s through their family Advent tradi- fice. Caroline, who is the eldest of erful message. message of love tions. Parents Kate and Waylon the Peterson children, enjoys the The greatest to the less fortu- take out a calendar prior to Advent Messianic Prophecies that expression of that tries to teach us nate by helping each year to look at the family’s store educates the children on sev- announce the coming of a Savior God’s love was the poor, visiting work and school schedules and eral levels. in her Catechesis of the Good the sending of the lonely, serv- develop an activity for each day of “They love that they can throw Shepherd class. his only Son, that more is better. ing at a soup the season. Then the family makes in almost anything they want and “Last year in catechesis we Jesus, whose kitchen, patch- a paper chain. The links are con- it is a great way to teach them looked up some Old Testament mission was to ing up some of nected and numbered for each day math so they stay within a budget readings, usually the prophets, and reveal to the our relationships of Advent and indicate a special and understand the cost of gro- we would hear about what each world God’s that need heal- activity for that day. Each day the ceries,” says Waylon. prophet would say about Jesus. An love for each ing or doing children take turns pulling links. The trip to the Homeless Center example might be, ‘For a child is person. Jesus commissioned his those important things that we tend To help keep straight whose turn it brings home the concept of giving born to us, a Son is given us; upon followers to show this same love. to procrastinate about. Or maybe is they alternate the colors of the back to the com- his shoulder dominion rests. They Jesus is God’s Christmas gift to us. we need to spend less time shop- paper. munity, Waylon name him Wonder-Counselor, As the saying goes, Jesus is the ping and more time with friends Kate empha- emphasizes. God-Hero, Father-Forever, Prince reason for the season! and family. sizes that a mix “One of my of Peace from Isaiah 9:5,’” The season of Advent helps And lastly, remember that a gift of silly and spir- “The notion is to get favorite tradi- explains Caroline. ground us in why we celebrate. It should express one’s love. It is the itual activities tions is that Both Margaret, 9, and Louisa, is quite a contrast to the secular act of giving that is important, not are required for all the kids in the every year I take 6, enjoy watching the bed of hay holiday season that often begins the size or price of the item. We their children the Friday off in the manager grow through their with Christmas displays even must go against our culture that who range in before Christmas sacrifices. “Sometimes I let one of before the witches and goblins are tries to teach us that more is better. age from 9 spirit of Advent.” to go shopping my sisters take the first hot choco- taken off the store shelves. We must resist the temptation to months to 11 with them and late during snack time,” says Surrounded by the material judge a person’s love for us by the years of age. KATE PETERSON they buy gifts Margaret. Louisa adds, “Once I hype and the message to buy, buy, type of gift given. Sometimes peo- “Some days are for each other played with Rose when I didn’t buy, it is not easy to keep Advent ple would rather have some of our really busy so and gifts for the want to.” and to focus on the true meaning personal time than receive whatev- we do some- guests at the Caroline and Margaret both of Christmas. We often get so er material gift we can purchase. thing small. On a weekend day we Homeless Center with their own enjoy expressing their own unique caught up in the frenzy that we Another way to show our love is may do something more involved. money. We will deliver the gifts to talents during Advent. Caroline sometimes forget why we give to make our own gifts or to do The notion is to get all the kids in the center in person and it reminds plays the violin during Mass at St. gifts. Gifts are signs of love and something that involves giving of the spirit of Advent,” says Kate. us how God has blessed us. I do Pius, while Margaret likes to show for us the greatest gift of all is ourselves. An example would be to Examples of their simple activi- not take many days off each year her artistic gift through making Jesus. Maybe our present econom- promise to baby-sit a certain num- ties include cutting out paper unless it is for vacation where we aluminum foil people or a play ic crisis with so many out of work ber of times free of charge or to snowflakes to hang on the win- go somewhere so the kids under- mobile out of a cardboard box for or with limited cash flow will help dedicate a Saturday to work dows at home, making cookies for stand that it is a priority for dad other family members. us to realize this more deeply this around someone’s home. Use your friends, visiting an older friend in and not just mom, to be committed One of the concluding activities year. imagination. All it costs is some the parish or simply listening to to family and our community,” during Advent for the Petersons is It takes a strong individual to personal time. music and dancing. “Sometimes says Waylon. the reenactment of the Nativity shelter himself or herself from the As a footnote I would like to on a cold day you just need to get Spiritual pursuits during Advent story by the entire family. It is material whirlwind. I want to offer say that the usual way God tells us some of that energy out,” Kate include saying the rosary together, with childlike innocence that some suggestions for what we can that he loves us is through the love laughs. and an activity inspired by Mother Louisa describes the characters do to help us stay focused. we receive through other human Two outings that the family Teresa. In her biography, Mother family members portray. “There First of all, we can reflect on beings. Jesus tells us over and over looks forward to every year is pur- Teresa had an empty manger and usually is a lamb, a sheep, a don- the daily Advent Mass readings. that we share in his mission to chasing food at the grocery store straw. Each time a sacrifice was key and an angel. Caroline usually These biblical readings remind us “reveal the father’s love.” These for delivery to the Food Bank of made at the convent by one of the reads the Gospel and daddy is of the history of our salvation and days give us many options to do Northern Indiana and buying gifts nuns, a piece of straw was added Joseph. And mommy is always what life was like without the just that. And hopefully we will for the Homeless Center. Waylon to the manger. The sacrifice was Mary because she is always preg- Messiah. The Jewish people continue to express this love notes the family trip to the grocery not something that a person boast- nant.” longed for a savior. Do we long for throughout the New Year. Jesus in our lives or do we take his presence for granted? Do we try to recognize Jesus in all we meet? Do Sister Margie Lavonis,CSC, works for we even think about or talk to him the Sisters of the Holy Cross All Saints during the day? communications department. Another suggestion is to send [email protected]. Religious Goods as Sale! 3506 South Calhoun Street, Fort Wayne istm 260-456-9173 Chr e- Big Savings (across from South Side High School) r Storewide on All featuring P Advent & Christmas Items Advent Wreaths & Candles NATIVITY SETS •Crucifixes • Bibles • Statues 25% OFF •Medals and Rosaries 2306 Mishawaka Ave., South Bend • 287-1091 222811 S NOVEMBER 30, 2008 TODAY’ S CATHOLIC 11
EDITORIAL Unite in prayer for our leaders COMMENTARY week ago, the bishops of the United States concluded their Aannual Fall meeting in Baltimore. This year, of course, they TODAY’S CATHOLIC welcomes letters from readers. All letters must be signed and include a phone number and address for verifica- held this meeting in the wake of an historic presidential election in tion. Today’s Catholic reserves the right to edit for clarity and length. Address letters to: Today’s Catholic • P.O. Box 11169 • Fort which Barack Obama was elected the 44th President of the United Wayne, IN • 46856-1169 or e-mail to: [email protected] States. Speaking for the bishops’ conference, Cardinal Francis George stated that the bishops welcomed this moment of historic transi- black regardless of smaller enroll- by Bishop John M. D’Arcy. tion. It is right that we as Catholics acknowledge the historical sig- St. Aloysius worth ment because the parishioners stand St. Aloysius’s ISTEP scores are nificance of the election of the first African-American to the presi- behind their schools, believing in soaring at 93.8 percent, above the dency. It is a moment of pride especially for the African-American preserving the future of their children both aca- diocesan average of 83.7 percent. community which, through the decades, has suffered discrimina- By now, many readers of Today’s demically and spiritually. These As a teacher, I have firsthand Catholic have heard of the recent schools are not a drain on the dioce- knowledge of the fact that smaller tion in our country, a discrimination which has, please God, less- san finances. class sizes are beneficial to academ- ened in our own day. We must pray that the election of an African- recommendation in the Diocese of Fort Wayne-South Bend to merge At St. Aloysius, the parishioners ic success. American president is a sign of an ending once and for all to racial their rural schools into the neigh- are truly committed to their school, St. Aloysius School has been a hatred and discrimination in our country. boring Fort Wayne Catholic realizing its far reaching effects on cherished tradition in rural Allen Our response also as Catholics should be one of continuing schools. Is this really the best idea the future. This is evidenced by the County for the past 132 years, and prayer for our new president. This is a duty that we have in the for the students of these schools? As record-breaking 87 percent commit- today they operate a very modern Lord. St. Paul stated in his letter to Timothy: “First of all, then, I a parishioner, parent and teacher in ment to our not too distant capital facility, with a quality atmosphere ask that supplications, prayers, petitions and thanksgivings be the diocese, I can attest to the aca- campaign and successful comple- very conducive to learning. St. offered for everyone, for kings and for all in authority, that we demic excellence of these smaller, tion in 2001 of a $1.5 million Aloysius is a legacy worth preserv- may lead a quiet and tranquil life in all devotion and dignity. This rural Catholic schools. They have a expansion to the existing campus. ing for the next generations to rich tradition that has provided Five new classrooms, two offices, come. is good and pleasing to God our savior, who wills everyone to be activity center, library and storage Pat Wyss saved and to come to knowledge of the truth.” — 1 Tm 2:1-4. priests, valedictorians and salutato- rians in the Fort Wayne area facilities were added. This expan- Fort Wayne Finally, as Cardinal George pointed out, the church stands ready schools. They have operated in the sion project was given full approval in her many institutions to continue its cooperation with the gov- ernment in our work for economic justice and opportunity for all. As the cardinal put it, “our efforts to reform laws around immigra- tion and the situation of the undocumented; our provision of better education and adequate health care for all, especially for women Making truthful choices of conscience and children; our desire to safeguard religious freedom and foster peace at home and abroad. The church is intent on doing good and ne recurrent theme in “live-in” situation. Over dinner it will continue to cooperate gladly with the government and all oth- bioethical discussions is the came out that she was pregnant. MAKING ers working for these goods.” To the extent that we share the Oidea that each of us pos- Things changed as a result of this desire to build up the dignity of each human person in our country, sesses a basic awareness of the revelation. After the meal, the SENSE OF we as Catholics must be united in mind and sentiment with the moral law. This distinctly human mother pulled her daughter aside saying, “Look, you’ve got a life to president-elect. faculty, which Western culture has referred to as “conscience,” helps live. You don’t want to spend the BIOETHICS At the same time it seems clear that the president-elect fails to us to choose correctly when con- rest of your life with this guy. BY FATHER TAD PACHOLCZYK acknowledge (and one should say gravely fails to acknowledge) fronted with basic moral decisions. C’mon, dear, you’ve got to get an the dignity of each human person from the moment of conception Even children, when taught about abortion.” until the moment of natural death. His voting record as a senator right and wrong, instinctively seem The next day, the young man unaware of her plans, began a rou- and his campaign promises to pro-abortion groups show clearly to recognize a law higher than and the young woman ran into the tine ultrasound to find out how the his desire to promote nationwide restriction-free on-demand abor- themselves. Deep within his con- priest again. The fellow brought up pregnancy was progressing. She tion. Cardinal George addressed this by stating that the aggressive science man discovers that law, the discussion with the mother and had brought along her three chil- pursuing of pro-abortion policies by the Obama administration which he has not laid upon himself said they were reconsidering the dren, and they were busy playing would not bring about national unity (which was proclaimed as a but which he must obey. abortion option. The priest replied, together on the floor of the exami- desire during the Obama campaign), but rather would bring about Conscience has been aptly “We reached a decision on that nation room. As the doctor ran the the alienation of tens of millions of Americans, not to mention an described as man’s most secret already.” The young man quickly scanner over her belly, her little escalation in the continual destruction of innocent unborn human core and his sanctuary. answered, “What do you mean? If son glanced up from his toy air- life. As creatures of conscience, I make a decision today, I can planes, pointed to the screen and It is no secret that Catholic voters were divided in their support then, we are moved to pursue good change it tomorrow.” The priest said, “Look, Mommy — a baby!” for a presidential candidate. However, now that a president has and to avoid evil. Yet, in our fallen responded simply, “For certain She left the doctor’s office that been elected, we must be more united than ever in praying for and nature, we are also drawn, mysteri- kinds of decisions, you can’t afternoon with a new awareness ously, towards wrong and harmful change your mind. If you go back that she couldn’t end the growing supporting our new president but also in standing firm in word and life within her. deed in our opposition to the greatest human rights problem in our choices. The dictates of conscience on your decision now, I won’t may become muted or drowned know who you are anymore...” Through the eyes and heart of a country, the continual slaughter of millions of unborn human child, we are often reminded of beings. out by other voices around us. As The young man was shaken by we grow older we may even this answer, but when he reflected what a pure and upright con- acquire a certain finesse in justify- on it later, he understood that the science ought to look like. To form ing personal choices that are not priest was right. Certain kinds of our conscience as adults means to good, choices strongly contrary to personal choices touch us at the learn virtue, by repetitively and Advent: Journey to the light of truth the law of our own being. The very core of our being. Accepting determinately choosing what is Last year Pope Benedict XVI reminded us that Advent season inner sanctuary of conscience is or rejecting a temptation to serious good, true and moral. Doing so is a time of watchfulness, prayer and conversion. delicate and easily transgressed, wrongdoing like abortion involves brings order to our lives and While many of us can easily become captivated in the commer- requiring great attentiveness on our our hearts in a far deeper way than engenders peace in our hearts. cial revelry of the season with gift shopping, parties, etc., it is also part if we are to remain faithful to many of the lesser decisions we Ultimately, we discover how to be important that we take time to commit ourselves to quiet times of it. have to make each day, so that in fully human only to the extent that we faithfully follow that delicate prayer, reflection and reconciliation. As Catholics, let us remind I recall a powerful story about the end, it is our moral choices that conscience involving a young cou- define who we are and what we voice of a properly-formed con- ourselves who we are, what we are and what is the meaning of the science. season. We must stand for these truths — truths that are chal- ple who cohabitated for many become. By acting against an lenged by the secularization of the season. years. Neither of them were think- upright conscience, we violate and disfigure who we are, and become As the pope said in his general audience in 2007 just before ing much about marriage, and one day the fellow learned that his girl- less human. That’s why the priest Christmas, “If the light of God, the light of truth is turned off, life friend was pregnant. Being told the young man that he would becomes dark and without a compass.” Catholic, he approached his priest. not know who he was anymore. May we utilize this Advent season to bring our lives closer to All three of them met one after- I recall another true story about the light of God and the light of truth. noon, had rather lengthy discus- the gentle proddings of conscience sions, and finally reached a deci- that involved a mom with three Father Tadeusz Pacholczyk, Ph.D. sion together. They decided that children. When she found out she earned his doctorate in neuro- abortion was not an option. They was pregnant yet again, she science from Yale and did post- talked about the possibility of mar- became fearful and began telling doctoral work at Harvard. He is riage at some time in the near herself she couldn’t support the a priest of the diocese of Fall future. burden of another child. She final- River, Mass., and serves as the Later the same day, the parents ly decided it would be necessary to director of education at The Today’s Catholic editorial board consists of Ann Carey, Kay Cozad, Fred and of the young woman came by the have an abortion. She arrived at National Catholic Bioethics Lisa Everett, Father Mark Gurtner, Father Michael Heintz, Tim Johnson, couple’s house. They had been her decision just before going in Center in Philadelphia. See Vince LaBarbera and Mark Weber. fairly open and accepting of this for her next checkup. The doctor, www.ncbcenter.org 12 COMMENTARY NOVEMBER 30, 2008 Exploring Abraham THE CATEQUIZ’EM By Dominic Camplisson What was the background of tually developed literature, such Abraham,the founder of the Jewish as the story of the great flood. Everyone looks forward to Thanksgiving except turkeys.This quiz looks nation? The Bible calls this city “Ur of at the forerunner to this bird and country. the Chaldees.” J. Packer says clay The Book of Genesis says that tablets found at Ur explain that it the father of Abraham, formerly 1.The Byzantine nation occupied,at times,all the territory now included in was located in the district of the HIRE a.Turkey. b.Siam. c.Indonesia. Abram, was Terah who lived in Kaldu people. The famous the famous ancient city of Ur in Chaldeans, on the other hand, HISTORY what is now southern Iraq. The 2.This Byzantine Empire got its start with Constantine,who moved the Roman capital were not known until 1,000 years FATHER RICHARD HIRE time was around 2000-1800 B.C. after Abraham. there.Which town did he choose? Terah had two other sons besides The Bible says Terah decided a.Izmir (Smyrna) b.Byzantium c.Nicaea Abram, namely Nahor and Haran. to take Abram, Lot and Sarai to of Abraham. This city was of Haran became the father of the the fertile land of Canaan. The 3.What was he most famous for? famous Lot mentioned in Genesis, great strategic importance because reason for this migration may be it lay on the road between a.juggling two frozen turkeys at once but Haran died young, before his the disturbances at the end of the own father Terah. The two Nineveh in ancient Assyria or b.legalizing Christianity third dynasty of Ur suggested by northern Iraq and the fords of the c.establishing the monastery at Athos in the Crimea remaining sons of Terah took the discovery of mass burials. wives: Abram married Sarai and Euphrates River at Carchemish, a Also then the Euphrates River town on the west bank of the river Nahor married Milcah, the daugh- probably separated Ur from the 4.Though Latin was officially used for a while,the commonly used language was ter of Haran. at the Syrian border of southern a.Ottoman b.Lydian c.Greek plain. Turkey. Haran was also a reli- Ur was a Sumerian city. Father But, on their way, they settle in John McKenzie says their lan- gious city, like Ur, worshiping the Haran or Carrhae, formerly in moon god. Today people in Haran 5.This meant in some ways that these folks were culturally closer to guage was akin to Turkish, Syria, now in eastern Turkey, 22 a.the language of, and culture referenced in the Gospels Finnish, and Hungarian. The live in the same type of houses miles southeast of Urfa or ancient that Abraham did, namely mud b.the language and culture of Rome Sumerians organized their city as Edessa. It was at Haran that God a temple community. The god is brick houses shaped like cones or c.the Muslims called Abram to lead his people to beehives four to five meters high. the king of the city. The people the land of Canaan and become a are the servants of the temple. These high ceilings soften the 6.In the seventh century rumors began to trickle in about these Arabs forming a new great nation. So Abram abandons burning summer sun. The Sumerians furthered writ- the pagan gods of his past, fol- religious group which expanded rapidly: ing, art, crafts and commerce. lows the true God, and becomes a.Muslims b.Melkites c.Yemenis They also made laws, such as the the founder of the Hebrew nation. code of Ur-Nammu, about 2050 E. Blake mentions that inscrip- 7.And indeed the Byzantines were soon beginning centuries of conflict with these B.C. They invented the cuneiform tions show Haran was in exis- Father Richard Hire, is pastor of St. enemies,who rapidly conquered script used for records and even- tence around 2000 B.C., the time Martin de Porres Parish, Syracuse. a.North Africa. b.China. c.France.
We do not know the future 8.The Byzantines had a secret weapon.What was it? a.Greek fire, a type of flame thrower care for them. The prophet makes clear that sin has led the people Reflection b.They had invented tungsten steel c.the Scutum or self-directing shield away from God, and this estrange- Advent is much more than a THE ment has produced their woes. religious gloss over the hurry of Paul’s First Epistle to the preparing for Christmas. It is a call 9.But under pressure from Muslims they at times asked for help from the West SUNDAY Corinthians provides the next read- for personal conversion, to bring (Catholics).What condition did the papacy generally demand after the 11th century? ing. Counseling the Christian of Christ into our hearts and lives. a.union with the Roman Church GOSPEL Corinth was a challenge for Paul. Using Mark’s Gospel, it builds b.the conversion of the Byzantines to Islam Not only did temptation and vice on the belief that nothing else is as c.that they give up the drachma and adopt the euro MSGR. OWEN F. CAMPION surround them at every side, but permanent, or as important, as the also they argued among them- reality of God, and the reality of selves. Paul had to call them to 10.One set of efforts by the Latins to wrest control of the Holy Land,which had been our need to be one with God in taken from the Byzantines,was a series of faithfulness, and also he had to try Christ. First Sunday of to influence them to put their dif- Advent is an opportunity to a.pogroms b.jihads c.crusades ferences with each other aside. confront ourselves with this reality, Advent He saw disciples as having an opportunity to achieve this 11.Notoriously these efforts,always viewed with unease by the Byzantines,resulted in Mk 13:33-37 enormous religious potential, able union with God. this catastrophe: themselves to draw more closely The very busy nature of the a.the sacking of Constantinople his weekend the church to God and also able to infuse the season merely serves to remind us b.the death of the high priest Callistus begins Advent. It also begins goodness of Christianity into the to sharpen our focus. c.the death of Pope Benedict XVII Tthe use of biblical readings circles in which they moved. If we respond to this opportuni- from Year B of its three-year St. Mark’s Gospel is the source ty, then Christmas becomes not a 12.Though the Byzantines nominally recovered,they were soon besieged by the cycle. of the last reading. It offers us a national holiday, not even a reli- It also is the start of a new litur- theme found quite often in the gious commemoration, but the Ottoman Turks.Later attempts to return to the Roman fold gical year. Each liturgical year is New Testament, namely that moment when we truly bring God a.were agreed to by the emperor and the people, which is how carefully planned so that the sea- Christ will come to earth again, into our lives, having prepared the empire was saved. sons, and the major feasts, guide but in this Second Coming the ourselves for this wondrous b.were rejected by the emperor though the people loved the idea. us through our very own worship Lord will be the victor. encounter. c.were rejected by the people who dismissed the emperor’s deals into a closer relationship with God By the time the Gospels were with Rome. in Christ. written, even in the case of the The liturgical readings are cho- Gospel of Mark, the oldest of the sen to teach us about the Lord, to four as they now exist, Christians 13.As a result,this happened in 1453 relay to us the Lord’s message, were numerous enough, and geo- a.the pope conceded the rights of the eastern churches to be and to make us better aware of graphically distributed enough, to autonomous God’s mercy for us as humanity catch the public eye. Yet they were b.the Muslims were all converted to eastern, not western, and for us individually. not numerous enough to be able to READINGS Christianity The first reading is from the stand against their enemies. The Sunday: Is 63:16b-17, 19b;64:2-7 c.Constantinople fell to the Turks third section of Isaiah. When it culture was an enemy. Soon, the Ps 80:2-3, 15-16, 18-19 1Cor 1:3-9 was composed, the Jews were in a political system would be an Mk 13:33-37 14.Though the empire fell,the culture survived largely in this body: quite difficult situation. The exiles enemy. had been allowed to return to the Problems if not dangers lay Monday: Is 2:1-5 Ps 122:1-9 a.the Turkish Janissaries Holy Land from Babylon, but this ahead. The atmosphere was tense, Mt 8:5-11 b.the Orthodox Church return brought the exiles home to uncertain, and frightening. Tuesday: Is 11:1-10 Ps 72:7-8, 12-13, c.the Republic of Bosnia no paradise. Life was miserable. Thoughts of the Second Coming 17 Lk 10:21-24 The prophet called for faith in naturally were appealing. The Wednesday: Is 25:6-10a Ps 23:1-6 15.Today the Christian community in Turkey God, not only as almighty, but as reading, quoting the Lord, reminds Mt 15:29-37 a.is a tiny minority true to the covenant, to the belief us that we in fact do not know the Thursday: Is 26:1-6 Ps 118:1, 8-9, b.is the dominant group in politics and finance and the army that God would protect the Chosen future. Life for anyone of us can 19-21, 25-27a Mt 7:21, 24-27 c.is the only community allowed into former Byzantine churches People. change dramatically and suddenly. Friday: Is 29:17-24 Ps 27:1,4,13-14 like Hagia Sophia. The prophet appeals to God, in However, the only permanent Mt 9:27-31 the name of the people, for relief. reality is God. If we are with God, Saturday: Is 30:19-21, 23-26 Ps However, the prophet does not say we need not fear. ANSWERS: that the people are being treated 147:1-6 Mt 9:35-10:1, 5a, 6-8 1.a, 2.b, 3.b, 4.c, 5.a, 6.a, 7.a, 8.a, 9.a, 10.c, 11.a, 12.c, 13.c, 14.b, 15.a unfairly, at least in terms of God’s NOVEMBER 30, 2008 COMMENTARY 13 Options are available at wake or vigil services for deceased
Are there options on what can be done ing together on behalf of one who lowing, “But he was speaking the English word “ghost” is loaded at a wake service for the deceased,ie, has died. While not to be discour- about the temple of his body. with connotations that I am not hymns and readings as opposed to the aged, the official rites of the THAT’S Therefore, when he was raised sure the New Testament authors recitation of the rosary.T.C.,Fort church would seem to prefer the from the dead, his disciples would understand; in short, the Wayne. vigil service be celebrated. remembered that he had said this, disciples are not characterized as There are pastorally sensitive A GOOD and they came to believe the thinking about a ghoul or a soul of The Order of Christian ways of incorporating both the Scripture and the word Jesus had one who had died; rather, it’s more Funerals, the collection of rites rosary and the vigil service during QUESTION spoken,” John 2:21-22, revealing like they couldn’t believe what used by the church in ministering the times of visitation, at different this very aspect of the proclamation they were seeing and weren’t sure to the family of the deceased, actu- times, for example, during the of the Gospel and its composition. who or what was walking on the ally proposes a vigil or wake serv- “calling hours”; some pastors in The paschal mystery is the water. ice to be held at the place of visita- fact may incorporate a decade of “lens” through which all the teach- The Catechism of the Catholic tion (home, funeral home, church) the rosary as an element of the before we’ve even picked up a ing and miracles of Jesus must be Church 2116-2117 makes it clear sometime prior to the celebration vigil service. understood and perceived. that we should not practice “div- of the funeral Mass. In fact, there copy of the New Testament, we have been instructed by our par- For us, this means that the cen- ination” or the conjuring up of are a number of related rites that In Luke 14:25-33,Jesus says,“Whoever tral mystery of the faith, “Christ spirits, etc., as such actions are an are beautifully written and are very ents, teachers or catechists in the does not carry his own cross and come grand narrative of salvation con- has died, Christ is risen, Christ will affront to the omnipotence and helpful to the loved ones who are after me cannot be my disciple.”This come again,” must also be the lens providence of God (our attempt to grieving, for example, when the tained in it — culminating in the was said prior to his crucifixion.Would saving death and resurrection of through which we read the whole wrest away control of things from casket is closed. of the Scriptures, Old and New him who creates, sustains and The vigil service consists of a anyone understand his meaning? J.J. Jesus: the paschal mystery. The full significance of his life Testaments; that’s why the sacred orders all things for our good and brief service of the word, followed Wabash. liturgy is the best and most privi- his glory). by a litany of intercession and the and ministry can only be under- It’s important for us to remem- stood in light of this paschal mys- leged context in which the Popular media may offer Lord’s Prayer. This is the perfect ber that — during Jesus’ earthly Scriptures are encountered. At accounts of how particular places time for someone from the family tery, which shapes not only the ministry and prior to his death and collective memory of the disciples, Mass, the central event which for- are haunted or about individual to speak in remembrance, offer a resurrection — a great many of the mats our understanding of the ghost-hunters or ghost-whisperers. eulogy, as eulogies are not a part but also the very composition of Lord’s teachings and parables were the Gospels — and our reading of Scriptures is made present sacra- Catholics should not partake of of the Catholic funeral Mass. understood only dimly, if at all, by mentally on the altar, and in fact such practices or put much stock in There is, of course, an old and them today must be guided by the his disciples. We have the benefit, same mystery. shapes and transforms us as read- them. We believe that at death the venerable tradition of praying the when hearing or reading the ers and hearers of the word. individual soul faces particular rosary at the funeral home, and A couple Sundays ago, the text Scriptures, of knowing how the of John’s Gospel observed the fol- judgment, and we should entrust this is also a beautiful way of pray- story ends, so to speak. That is, At one point,the disciples misinter- their soul to God’s mercy. preted Jesus as a ghost walking on the As a norm, before being too water.What exactly is a ghost? Does credulous about accounts of the church believe a soul can be “ghosts,” we are better advised to seek a rational or scientific expla- When the media makes the news trapped in this world? Anonymous nation for various phenomena Mark 6:49 says that, seeing the aving been in the sports Eventually, the media got which might be uncritically cate- Lord walking upon the waters, the media for the past 27 years, around to asking Jack Swarbrick if gorized as “ghosts.” disciples “cried out, thinking it I’ve seen a fairly dramatic Weis’ job truly was in jeopardy. H was a ghost.” The Greek word change in the way business is con- Swarbrick, Notre Dame’s new ath- FROM translated as “ghost,” phantasma, ducted. letic director, said that Weis’ job Father Michael Heintz,Ph.D, rector of might better be translated as “an We used to report and comment was secure, and his performance THE St. Matthew Cathedral, South Bend, apparition” or even “a dream” — on the news; now we often make would be evaluated upon the con- answered this week’s questions. the news. clusion of the ‘08 season. SIDELINES Following Notre Dame’s sec- There have been countless ond straight football setback this instances when coaches have BY TIM PRISTER month — an ugly 17-0 loss to received the dreaded “vote of con- SCRIPTURE SEARCH Boston College — a major fidence” from their employers, offensive struggles. Midwestern newspaper printed an only to be out of a job a few days Weis has a rather storied history By Patricia Kasten editorial on the Fighting Irish pro- later. Maybe Swarbrick isn’t of rubbing people the wrong way, gram under fourth-year head coach telling the whole truth. After all, and he’s hardly carved a path to Gospel for November 30, 2008 Charlie Weis. what could he say with three the College Football Hall of Fame. Mark 13:24-37 Except they left out one small games remaining in the regular So he’s not one of the nation’s detail: it was an analysis, not a season? He had two choices: say most beloved, sympathetic figures. Following is a word search based on a Gospel reading news story, and it wasn’t appropri- nothing, which adds further suspi- Who knows, maybe in the not-so- ately noted. So when the writer cion, or say the university supports for the first Sunday of Advent, Cycle A, about the distant future, Swarbrick may be Second Coming. The words can be found in all made the claim that Weis was on its employee. singing a different tune about the the “hot seat,” other news organi- One week later, after the Irish Notre Dame head football coach. directions in the puzzle. zations such as ESPN picked up squeaked by Navy despite domi- But the media has an obligation DARKENED NOT GIVE FALLING the story and declared that Weis nating most of the game, Weis for an accurate portrayal of the was on the hot seat. His job, they announced that he would continue truth, and Weis often is judged by POWERS THEY WILL SEE SON OF MAN intimated, was in jeopardy. calling plays in the absence of the image he presents and the pose CLOUDS ANGELS FOUR WINDS Now make no mistake, Weis offensive coordinator Mike he strikes. Losing doesn’t help his EARTH FIG SUMMER and the Irish haven’t exactly been Haywood, who had been excused cause. Yet for the past couple of GENERATION PASS AWAY NO ONE tearing up the college football for “personal reasons” for the sec- weeks, fiction has overruled reali- KNOW FATHER ALERT world. Following back-to-back ond straight week. Haywood had ty. IN CHARGE WATCH MIDNIGHT BCS bids in 2005-06, the Irish returned home during Navy week I’ve always enjoyed being a went 3-9 last season in a year that to attend the funeral of a cousin sportswriter, and I’d be less than everyone around Notre Dame very near and dear to the family. honest if I didn’t admit to getting THEY WILL SEE knew would be a transition season. So when Weis said he would caught up in the frenzy of my But 3-9? That was a pretty dramat- call plays for the Syracuse game business as it relates to intercolle- OLWK I NCHARGE ic swing. and that Haywood would be leav- giate athletics. I’ve speculated and This year, the Irish were ing midweek again, the specula- portrayed athletes and coaches OPNNDARKENED improving at 5-2 (two road losses, tion and assumption within the inaccurately as well, based upon PFOOREMMUSDA which can be expected from a media was that Haywood was the information available at that young team) while holding a 17-3 unhappy and looking for an escape moment. Often, your professional AMOWDFAF LGHN half-time lead at home against from Notre Dame. integrity is compromised by a Pittsburgh. Well, the Irish lost that Is Haywood unhappy at Notre deadline. SINUEFALLING game in four overtimes, and then Dame? That’s not the point. So it’s difficult to embrace a SDEERR I TEFDE went to Boston College and laid Haywood left midweek to inter- business that often aims for impact an egg. Suddenly, a promising sea- view for the University of instead of accuracy, controversy ANUJVWSHHRHL son had taken a dramatic turn for Washington head-coaching job. over fairness. Sometimes, there’s WI JOYI I PCETS the worse. Weis had permitted Haywood an much more at stake than the out- Now I’ve never seen a hot seat, opportunity to better himself even come of a game. AGDELKGNJ TRY let alone sat on one, although I’m though Haywood’s absence would sure one would come in quite be a distraction in Notre Dame’s YHHAACFTDGAS handy during some of these cold preparation for the upcoming ATNAMFONOSEW Midwestern nights. But Weis opponent. Yet the immediate Tim Prister is a 1978 graduate of apparently was sitting on one of assumption within the media was Marian High School and a 1982 NANO I TARENEG these hot seats because, well, that Weis had “thrown Haywood graduate from the University of © 2008 Tri-C-A Publications www.tri-c-a-publications.com because the media said so. under the bus” for Notre Dame’s Notre Dame. 14 TODAY’S CATHOLIC NOVEMBER 30, 2008
BISHOP DWENGER HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL TEAM AIMS FOR STATE TITLE The Bishop Dwenger Saints’ football team, after defeating Lowell, 38-22, for a semi-state title on Saturday, Nov. 22, at Fort Wayne’s Zollner Stadium, will compete for the Class 4-A state title in Indianapolis. The Saints (14-0) will take on Indianapolis Cathedral (11-2) at 3:30 p.m. at Lucas Oil Stadium on Saturday, Nov. 29. The Sports game will be broadcast live on Redeemer Radio, Catholic Radio 1450 AM, and Comcast Channel 81. Children’s book aims to start CYO quarterback corner
Culver Academy; Parents: movement about baseball, giving BY MICHELLE CASTLEMAN Therese and Greg; Sibling(s): Molly and Gregory II; Family FORT WAYNE — As Catholic pets: Dog — Zoe; Favorite video BY CHARLIE HARTLEY Youth Organization (CYO) grid- game: “Madden ‘09”; Favorite iron action comes to a close, the pizza topping: Cheese; What will BASKING RIDGE, N.J. (CNS) — quarterbacks from each team you remember most about CYO Two New Jersey Catholic mothers have many fond memories from football? I will remember the of Little League baseball players Sunday afternoons. These guys friendships I have made with the are celebrating what they charac- are the on-field leaders, the kids at my school as well as kids terize as their “miracle — a one- dynamic on the offense, the sig- on the teams we have played in-a-million shot” — the publica- nal callers. They throw the ball against. My coaches have taught tion of a hardcover children’s book with authority; they have the me so much. In the CYO we can they wrote together. ability to see holes and contribute compete and have fun doing it, Titled “A Glove of Their Own,” significantly to their team’s suc- whether we win or lose. the 32-page hardcover volume of cess. Here is a little bit more rhyming poetic verse is the first about the CYO quarterbacks Thomas “T” Starks, St. John, Fort published book for Debbie from the 2008 season: Wayne-Hessen Cassel Eagles, Moldovan and Keri Conkling. The No. 22/No. 5; Height/Weight: 5- poem is a fictional vignette about a John Cassell, Sts. JAT Knights foot, 10-inches, 138 pounds. group of about 10 boys and girls in No. 15; Height/Weight: 5-foot, Birthday: Dec. 21, 1994; Home the 8 to 12 age range, who are 11-inches, 123 pounds. Birthday: parish: St. John the Baptist, Fort playing baseball with a scant Nov. 22, 1994; Home parish: St. Wayne; Where will you be amount of worn-down baseball Joseph, Fort Wayne. Where will attending high school? Concordia equipment. Most don’t have their you be attending high school? Lutheran; Parents: Dawn and own mitts and have to borrow and Homestead. Parents: Dennis and Thomas Sr.; Sibling(s): Emma; share. Kelly. Sibling(s): Kevin; Family What is your favorite video But an older man watching pets: Dixie and Murphy; Favorite game? “NCAA Football ‘09”; them play brings them a full bag video game: “Madden ‘09”; Favorite pizza topping: of baseball gear that he had kept Favorite pizza topping: Cheese. Pepperoni; What will you from his days as a coach. The gift This is the cover of “A Glove of Their Own,” a 32-page hardcover book of What will you remember most remember most about CYO foot- brings joy to the boys and girls rhyming poetic verse by Debbie Moldovan, Keri Conkling and Lisa about CYO football? Playing St. ball? The Sunday excitement and inspires the narrator, a child, Funari-Willever. It is about a group of boys and girls who play baseball John, Fort Wayne in overtime. for game day. I will never forget to give back to other people and my teammates or coaches. CYO with worn equipment until a generous older man brings them new causes. Gus Schrader, St. Jude Eagles, Football taught me a lot and it The book arose from an event equipment. The authors hope the book inspires a movement of improv- No. 18; Height/Weight: 5-foot, 7- was great to be able to play for in the Moldovan family three ing children’s lives through baseball. inches, 125 pounds. Birthday: Coach Carroll. I will miss my years ago. The 39-year-old mother July 23, 1995; Home parish: St. middle school football games. of two boys and one girl asked her ‘a glove of their own.’ I saw the Lisa Funari-Willever, founder Jude. Where will you be attend- son, Tyler, what he would like to joy that baseball brought to my of Franklin Mason Press and the ing high school? Bishop David Hamel, Queen of do for his upcoming ninth birth- children and wanted all children to mother of an 8-year-old Little Dwenger; Parents: Thad and Angels/Most Precious Blood day. He didn’t want presents, he have that experience.” Leaguer, knew right away that “A Annette; Sibling(s): Aubrey, Royal Reds, No. 12 told her, just friends to come to his Moldovan let the poem sit qui- Glove of Their Own” had poten- Elise; Family pets: Major, Height/Weight: 5-foot, 9-inches, house and play baseball in his etly on her computer for about two tial. She became the third author Keegan; Favorite video game: 138 pounds; Birthday: March 4, backyard. years because “it was a really per- of the book, providing editorial “Mario GoKart” for Wii; 1995; Home parish: Most Moldovan and her husband, sonal story,” said the mother of adjustments. “She made the book Favorite pizza topping: Onion; Precious Blood; Where will you Rob, held what they called a Tyler (now 12), Austin, 10, and sing,” said Moldovan. What will you remember most be attending high school? Bishop “grand-slam birthday party” in Cayla, 7. The thing about this book is about CYO football? Robby’s Luers; Parents: Robert and their Basking Ridge backyard. The Enter 37-year-old Conkling, the that “everybody’s heart is in the interception against PB/QA. Cheryl; Sibling(s): Lexie, Olivia; 17 boys who attended played mother of 7-year-old Holly and 5- right place,” Funari-Willever said. Favorite video game: “Madden Wiffle ball, kept track of the game year-old Will, who became Franklin Mason Press has cho- ‘09”; Favorite pizza topping: on a wooden scoreboard built by “instant friends” with Moldovan in sen three charitable organizations Jacob Britton, St. John, New Pepperoni; What will you Rob Moldovan and brought along September 2006. One day in — Good Sports, Pitch in for Haven, Raiders, No. 16; remember most about CYO foot- their extra baseball equipment for September 2007, while Conkling Baseball and Sports Gift — to be Height/Weight: 5-foot, 10-inches, ball? Having a great time with donation to kids who did not have visited her friend’s house, its designated partners for this 148 pounds. Birthday: June 19, the kids from the other teams, their own. Moldovan shared her baseball book. Ten cents from the sale of 1994; Home parish: St. John the hitting people and getting hit. Some 100 pieces of equipment poem. Conkling read it and was each book will automatically be Baptist, New Haven; Where will — gloves, cleats, baseball pants instantly moved. She also saw how donated to each charity. And when you be attending high school? Austen Edwards, St. Charles and more — were given to Pitch the story could be improved by each organization sells books Woodlan; Parents: Ron and Tami; Cardinals, No. 12; in for Baseball in Fort Washington, adding more emotions about the through its membership or Sibling(s): Jarod; Family pets: Height/Weight: 5-foot, 4-inches, Pa., a charitable organization for children. fundraisers, the publisher will Magnum, Molly, Mandy and 113 pounds. Birthday: Dec. 17, improving the lives of children in “Keri added such soul to the donate $3 per book. Bear, one hermit crab; Favorite 1994; Home parish: St. Charles; need through baseball. book,” Moldovan said. “Our entire story is about video game: “Madden ‘09”; Where will you be attending high After the party that same day, Bob Salomon, a Little League divine intervention, the little mir- Favorite pizza topping: Ham; school? Bishop Dwenger; moved by the abundance of gen- coach and friend of Conkling’s, acles which happened to us from What will you remember most Parents: James and Sheila; erosity and pure baseball bliss she read the manuscript too, and “my the very beginning,” said about CYO football? How we Sibling(s): Lindsay, C.J.; Family witnessed, she went to her com- whole arm was full of goose Moldovan. “It’s just a matter of became known as the “Dirty pets: Dog — Jack, Cat — Baxter; puter and wrote a poem in two bumps,” he said. “I knew when all of us keeping our eyes open Dozen” because we had a great What is your favorite video hours. It was, she said, a “story she read the story I was going to and realizing how God brought season with only 13 players and game? “Mario-Kart”; What is that had to be told.” bring it to a national level.” us together to do something big- went to South Bend and won the your favorite pizza topping? “Knowing there were kids in Despite having no experience ger and better than we knew we diocesan playoff. Pepperoni; What will you our country and all over the world in the publishing industry, he start- could.” remember most about CYO foot- who wanted to play baseball but ed researching children’s book Nick German, St. Vincent ball? Defensive tackling. had little or no equipment was publishers and came across Panthers, No. 3; Height/Weight: upsetting to me,” said Moldovan, Franklin Mason Press in Trenton, a 5-foot, 7-inches, 125 pounds. who has also written about a company with a dual mission: to Editor’s Note: “A Glove of Their Birthday: Aug. 22, 1994; Home dozen unpublished poems. “I produce high-quality books and Own” costs $15.95. Copies may parish: St. Vincent, Fort Wayne; couldn’t get the thought out of my support children’s charities with be ordered online at: Where will you be attending high head that every child should have donations from each book sold. www.agloveoftheirown.com. school? Bishop Dwenger or NOVEMBER 30, 2008 TODAY’ S CATHOLIC 15 REST IN PEACE Decatur Paul H.Regelsperger, South Bend WHAT’S HAPPENING? Mary H.Schnepp, 89, 69, St.Joseph, Hessen- Hedwige Rose St.Mary of the Cassel Horvath, 86, St. Assumption Matthew Cathedral WHAT’S HAPPENING carries announcements about upcoming events in the diocese. Send in your Catherine M.Winter, announcement at least two weeks prior to the event. Mail to: Today’s Catholic, P.O. Box 11169, Elkhart 90, Most Precious Joseph F.Dillon, Sr., 87, Mary F.Montagano, 78, Blood St.Matthew Cathedral Fort Wayne 46856; or e-mail: [email protected]. Events that require an admission charge St.Thomas the Apostle or payment to participate will receive one free listing. For additional listings of that event, please New Carlisle Joseph J.McCaffery, Jr., Misael Adame, 11, Isabel W.Trojan, 84, 87, Christ the King call our advertising sales staff at (260) 456-2824 to purchase space. St.Vincent de Paul St.Stanislaus Jesus Borrego, 55, Fort Wayne Natalie L.Mrozinski, 88, Our Lady of Hungary along Sunday, Dec. 7, at 2 p.m. SPIRITUAL Fresh cut trees offered by scouts William F.Swiss, 84, St.Stanislaus at Queen of Angels Church, Fort Wayne — Fresh cut Dolores Jurczak, 81, Advent reflection St.Vincent de Paul Huntington — Victory Noll 1500 W. State St. Opportunities Christmas trees, wreaths and Notre Dame Holy Family Center, 1900 W. Park Dr., will for soloists are available. Bring greens are being sold by the St. Ernest B.Wolansky, 80, Sister Mary Margaret your own score, or one will be offer the program “Soul Mosaics: Vincent Boy Scouts beginning St.Jude Koester, 82, Our Lady Yoder provided. Admission is $5 and Preparing for Our Guest” from Nov. 28 at the Scout lodge, 8865 of Loretto Judith A.Barnabee, 67, 5:30-8:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 4. includes holiday cookies and Auburn Rd. Hours are Monday- St.Aloysius The cost is $30 and includes a coffee during intermission. Call Friday 4-9 p.m. and Saturday light supper. All supplies provided. (260) 482-9411 or visit and Sunday 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. www.bachcollegium.org for Jerome Henry, former Catholic Social Services director, dies more information. Foresters plan Christmas party Create your personal mission statement FORT WAYNE — Jerome Catholic High, Henry spent two for 2009 Fort Wayne — The National Day of Reflection “Jerry” Henry Sr., father of 17 years serving in the Navy during South Bend — Geraldine Bryan, Catholic Society of Foresters Mishawaka — A day of reflec- children, including Fort Wayne World War II and held a master’s LCSW, staff therapist at Court 870, will have a potluck tion will be Wednesday, Dec. 17, Mayor Tom Henry, died Sunday degree in social work from Samaritan Counseling Center Christmas party Sunday, Dec. at Our Lady of Angels Convent, at age 82. Henry spent more than Indiana University. He was will offer a free presentation to 14, from 1-4 p.m. at the St. from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. The 20 years serving as director of the known as a champion for the less learn the goals and benefits of Henry Parish Center, 2929 E. theme for the day is “The Catholic Social Services, begin- fortunate. creating your personal mission Paulding Rd. Call (260) 447- Fragrance of Christ.” Bring your ning in 1968. From reports in the He leaves behind his wife of statement for 2009 on Tuesday, 2357 for information. Bible. The cost of the day is $15 Fort Wayne Journal Gazette, 59 years, Marganelle, and 16 of Dec. 2, from 12-1 p.m. at and includes lunch. Register by Nov. 24, Henry’s service at those children. Tim Henry, one of Samaritan Counseling Center, Blood drive Friday, Dec. 12, to Sister Catholic Social Services won him their sons, died in 1977. Henry 17195 Cleveland Rd. Bring a Yoder — A blood drive will be Barbara Anne Hallman at (574) the Sagamore of the Wabash also had 57 grandchildren and 36 sack lunch. Reservation to (574) Sunday, Dec. 14, at St. Aloysius 259-5427. Parish gym from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. award from then Gov. Evan great-grandchildren. 272-0274. Bayh. A 1944 graduate of Central Little Flower Holy Hour Taize prayer services to begin Fort Wayne — Father Tom Huntington —Victory Noll Shoemaker will celebrate the Center will present “Christ! Our holy hour at MacDougal Chapel Light in Darkness,” for the first Tuesday, Dec. 2, at 7:15 p.m. in a series of Taize prayer servic- Father Tom is pastor of St. Jude es at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 9. Parish. Regular services will be held on the second and fourth Tuesdays of each month beginning January MISC. HAPPENINGS 13. Services last approximately Knights plan fish fry one hour. There is no cost to South Bend — The Knights of attend and no registration is Columbus Council 5521, 61533 required. S. Ironwood Dr., will have a fish fry on Friday, Dec. 5, from 5 to Community sing along 7 p.m. Adults $7.50, children (5- Fort Wayne — The Fort Wayne 12) $3. Chicken strips for $7.50 Bach Collegium is sponsoring a and shrimp for $8.50 will be community-wide Messiah sing- available.
Placement Test for Incoming Freshman Marian High School 1311 S. Logan St. b Mishawaka Saturday, December 6, 2008 259-5257 8:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. www.marianhs.org InstitutePHOENIX Phoenix Institute, a small family oriented foster care agency, is looking for people to foster abused and neglected youth. Phoenix Institute is looking for stable and supportive families, single parents, married couples, families of color, empty nesters, people who rent or own. To become a foster parent, you don’t need a lot of money, a fancy house, or extensive parenting experience. What you do need is a com- mitment to learning and working as part of a team, a sense of humor, flexibility, and patience. And you need to want to provide a stable and supportive home to a child. Phoenix Institute has a staff with a rich history of working in foster care. Free training - 24 hour staff support -reimbursement provided. 2200 Lake Avenue - Suite 260 Fort Wayne 46805 - (260) 424-0411 www.phoenixfostercare.com 16 TODAY’ S CATHOLIC NOVEMBER 30, 2008 New books for Advent reading
St. Anthony Messenger Press, detailed antedotes and quotes from BY KAY COZAD “First and Second Timothy, Titus,” “Treasure in Clay,” by Fulton J. by George T. Montague, S.M., and ISBN: 978-0-86716-831-0 masters in the field to articulate his Sheen is the autobiography of this “The Gospel of Mark” by Mary perspective as a religious natural- gifted orator completed shortly The following are recent releases Healy, are two of a 17-volume “God Stories: Inspiring Encounters ist. Ave Maria Press, Sorin Books, before his death in 1979. Glimpses that have been sent to Today’s series, that integrate Scripture with with the Divine,” Edited by Jennifer ISBN: 9781933495132 of Sheen’s childhood, years in the Catholic. Summaries were taken Catholic doctrine, worship and Skiff is a collection seminary, academic career, travels from press releases and include daily life. Readings from the of 100 stories includ- “Greater Than You Think: A and media stardom provide the publisher and ISBN number. Letters of Timothy and the Gospel ing the author’s own Theologian Answers reader with a timeless message of of Mark are supplemented by side- miracle story, about the Atheist faith, hope and love. Doubleday, “Saints at the Dinner Table,” by bars with background information, the experiences of About God,” by ISBN: 978-0-385-17709-2 Amy Heyd cooks quotes from saints and church people who have Thomas D. up a delicious fathers and reflection and applica- felt God’s power Williams, LC, menu of meals tion sections to make work in their lives Th.D., is a rebut- with each chap- effective and have been tal response to ter dedicated to reading. profoundly recent anti-God a saint who Baker changed. These claims. Williams inspired her Academic stories of Divine offers an easy-to- original ISBN intervention are read Q & A-style recipes. The 978-0- spirit lifting as he answers ques- author com- 8010-3581- and hopeful. tions in five cate- bines a brief 4 and 978- Harmony gories, including introduction 0-8010- Books, ISBN religion itself; reli- to each 3586-9 978-0-307- gion and society; reli- saint, a 38268-9 gion, science and rea- reflection, son; allegations an inspired “Bringing “When God is against Christianity; menu, a Home the Gone, Everything is Holy,” by Chet and how atheism itself dinner Gospel: The Year Raymo is forged from both the stands up to the same prayer and of Matthew: A standards of academy and the rev- questions asked of religion. questions for a meaningful Weekly Journal erence for creation born of the Counter questions and Biblical dinner discussion. St. Anthony for Catholic Catholic sacramental tradition and content challenges nonbelievers to Messenger Press, ISBN: 978-0- Parents,” by Judith Dunlap is is filled with science, philosophy, further prove their cause. 86716-851-8 designed for busy parents who theology and literature. Raymo FaithWords, ISBN: 978- want to share the faith with their uses wit and insight as he offers 0446514934 “Say You’re One of Them,” by family as they reflect on their spiri- Umen Akpan is a tual journey. Each week includes a collection of five reflection based on the stories, each told Sunday Gospel. from the perspec- “Family tive of a child response” ques- from a different tions provide dis- African country, cussion opportuni- that portray the ties and the book horror and offer plenty of ANNUAL beauty found in space to journal. the life issues Dunlap includes an facing the chil- easy-to-understand dren. His nar- overview of the Saint Nicholas rative prose church’s liturgical year brings the and a 10-year liturgical SALE sights, calendar. St. Anthony sounds and Messenger Press, December 6-13, 2008 feelings of ISBN: 0-86716-780-1 Africa to life. Little, “Saints Off the Pedestal” Brown and Company, by Amanda M. Roberts 20% OFF ISBN: 978-0-316-11378-6 takes an in-depth look at the lives of 10 well-known saints “God and Country: Reflections for in the Catholic church. She makes Catholics in the Military,” by Father their stories accessible so as to find everything Michael Ortiz is a pocket-size inspiration to follow their example prayer book for Catholic men and of holiness. She includes interest- women in the U.S. military offer- ing facts about the life and times in stock! ing traditional Catholic prayers in of each of the saints as well as addition to reflections that include questions for individual or group Scripture, a brief inspirational reflection. St. Anthony Messenger, story and a question to ponder. ISBN: 978-0-86716-800-6 including books, bibles, Ortiz, a military chaplain, ends each meditation with space for per- “Mary and Me: Catholic Women rosaries, jewelry, crucifixes sonal notes. St. Anthony Reflect on the Mother of God,” by Messenger Press, ISBN: Ginny Kubitz Moyer is the cul- 978-0-86716-577-7 mination of an and Fontanini! invitation “Pope John Paul II: The to Now carrying the Magnificat Magazine Pope I Knew So Well,” by Catholic Caroline Pigozzi offers a women of and a great new selection of greeting cards and gifts. behind-the-scenes look at all ages to this great man. 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