December 6, 2019 In This Issue MESSEESSENGERNGER M Serving the Diocese of Covington, Kentucky since 1926

2 Letter from Bishop Foys Retirement Fund for Religious collection

2 Retired Benedictine sisters Still ministering

3 Annual Curia service awards

3 You’re invited Screening: ‘Miss Virginia’

6 The Immaculate Conception (above and right) Bishop Roger Foys celebrated Mass, Nov. 24, with the Congregation of 7 Blessed John Martin Moye Divine Providence on 65th anniversary of 8 Sister Mary Evelyn Reinke, S.N.D. the beatification Christmas card ministry of founder, Blessed John 9 Catholic Charities volunteers Martin Moye. Provide Thanksgiving dinners

9 ACUE Fund chair Blessed John Martin Moye Visits Holy Family School and‘good thief’offer right

13 NCYC closing Mass perspectiveonChrist the King Keener photos Laura Keener Jesus to prove himself — come down from that cross — prove yourself, Editor they said. Save yourself and us, the thief said in the Gospel account. On the solemnity of Christ the King, Nov. 24, Bishop Roger Foys cel- “They didn’t understand who Jesus was or why he came,” Bishop Moving? Wrong address? ebrated Mass at Holy Family Home, Melbourne, with the Congregation Foys said. Call the circulation desk, of the Sisters of Divine Providence. The solemnity — which marks the The third perspective comes from the good thief. He recognizes (859) 392-1570 end of the liturgical year — was also the commemoration of the 65th Jesus as not only an innocent man but also the Savior and asks, “Jesus, anniversary of the beatification of Blessed John Martin Moye, founder remember me when you come into your kingdom.” (Luke 23:42) of the Sisters of Divine Providence. (See related story page 7.) “He did not see in the cross of Jesus defeat, but victory,” Bishop Bishop’s Schedule ...... 3 The Sisters of Divine Providence came to the Diocese of Covington Foys said. “He understood Jesus at that point in time, more than Jesus’ in 1889. As conditions in Alsace-Lorraine threatened the development disciples. He saw through everything else — what a remarkable act of Commentary ...... 4 of the Congregation of Sisters of Divine Providence, Mother Anna, faith, a remarkable show of trust in Jesus Christ — a revelation that People and Events ...... 10 superior general (1885–1903), sought to establish an American founda- others didn’t understand.” Saint Snippet ...... 11 tion. Bishop Camillus Maes welcomed the sisters to the diocese, espe- Bishop Foys said that even today the world does not understand Entertainment ...... 14 cially for their teaching ministry. Jesus; does not understand the Church. Shopper’s Guide ...... 14 The American provincial house of the Sisters of Divine Providence “The world can not fathom what we do or why we do it, what we VIRTUS ...... 15 is still located in Melbourne, Ky. Throughout the diocese’s history the believe or why we believe it. Jesus is our king — he doesn’t sit on a Classifieds ...... 16 Sisters of Divine Providence have taught at many parish schools and throne but looks down from the cross. We look up to him with the per- operated the former Our Lady of Divine Providence Academy, spective of that good thief who recognized who Jesus is; that every- News Briefs ...... 19 Newport — a high school for girls — which merged in 1983 with thing that we are — that is good in us — we are because of him. … The Newport Central Catholic High School. Now in the Diocese of good thief demonstrates to us the kind of faith we should have. He Covington, the Sisters of Divine Providence Missed an edition? Current and back found forgiveness because he found the issues of the Messenger are available continue its teaching ministry at El Centro King of Forgiveness, he found mercy online at covdio.org/messenger. de la Divina Providencia, Covington, teach- because he found the King of Mercy, and ing English as a second language to the he found love because he found the one local Spanish-speaking community. The sis- who is love.” ters also operate Jeanne d’Arc Residence, Bishop Foys said that Blessed Moye Manhattan, New York — a home for young AdventAdvent was also one of those rare people who women seeking to improve their lives. had a perspective that was right. In his homily, Bishop Foys reflected on The Lord will come; he is true “He didn’t have an easy life, he was the different perspectives people have when suspended and spent years in the mis- interpreting any event. The challenge, he to his word. If he seems to delay, sions, but always kept his eye on the said, is to have the “right perspective.” kingdom. Even on difficult days, dark Focusing on the day’s Gospel account of the keep watch for him, days, he could see what others couldn’t; crucifixion and “the good thief,” Bishop he could do what others wouldn’t; Foys identified three perspectives those wit- for he will surely come, alleluia. because of his faith and his determina- nessing the event might have held of Jesus —Vespers Antiphon tion,” he said. as he hung on the cross. “As we celebrate the twofold solemni- “One is the crowd. The crowd is observ- Second ty of Christ King of the Universe and ing — they are apathetic,” he said. The cru- the beatification of John Martin Moye cifixion doesn’t really affect them one way Sunday we ask both of them to look upon us and or the other. “It’s a criminal being put to of help us to form always the right perspec- death — a horrible death. Later they will go Advent tive. When days are difficult, when there home and get on with their lives.” are doubts, when there are frustrations The second perspective is from the lead- Dec. 8 — we realize that although Jesus’ king- ers, soldiers and one of the two thieves cru- For the weeks of Advent, the dom begins here, it is not of this world. cified along with Jesus. Jesus had gotten diocesan Worship Office offers a Vespers worship aid We participate in that kingdom here so under their skin, he had challenged the for the Sundays of Advent. To download a printable that one day we will live in God’s king- leaders and they were angry. They wanted copy visit www.covdio.org/worship. dom forever.” 2 December 6, 2019 Messenger

schools in the Diocese of Covington beginning at Holy Cross, then Villa Madonna Academy, one year in Hunter, Colorado, then back to the Diocese of Covington. In between teaching positions she became the director of religious education (DRE) first at St. Barbara Parish. She alternated teaching a few years with being a DRE a couple years at different schools/parishes in the diocese. She attended Xavier University for her undergraduate Dear Friends in Christ, degree in education and earned a master’s degree in theol- ogy. Sister Kathleen celebrated her 60th jubilee in 2018 On the weekend of December 14 and 15, our parishes will hold with the Benedictine community. the Retirement Fund for Religious collection — an annual appeal Now that she has retired she helps out around the house [at St. Walburg Monastery] and also visits the resi- that benefits some 30,000 senior sisters, brothers and religious dents at Colonial Heights and Colonial Gardens in order priests. Florence. Two days a month she leads a communion serv- ice at Colonial Heights. Two other days a month she takes As Christians, we are called to “serve the Lord with gladness.” (Psalms 100:2) Our elderly Communion to Colonial Gardens where the residents are a little more confined and visits with them. religious offer a shining example of what it means to answer this call. During their days Psalms 139, which begins “Lord, you have probed me, of active ministry, religious men and women worked tirelessly to build Catholic schools you know me: you know when I sit and stand; and you and hospitals, promote social justice, and embrace the neediest among us. In retirement, understand my thoughts from afar,” is a favorite of Sister many continue in volunteer ministry, and all pray for the needs of our Church and world. Kathleen. Inspired by love, their service — past and present — is marked by joy and a deep desire to do the will of God. Across the United States, hundreds of religious communities lack financial resources sufficient As you may know, many religious communities find it increasingly difficult to provide to meet the retirement and health-care needs for aging members. Most of our older religious worked for little or no pay. Today, their of aging members. communities do not have enough retirement savings. At the same time, health-care Lack of funds — Many elder religious worked costs continue to rise, and fewer members are able to serve in compensated ministry. for years for small stipends, leaving a large gap in retirement savings. At the same time, fewer religious are able to serve in Your gift to the Retirement Fund for Religious provides vital funding for medications, compensated ministry. nursing care, and more. It also helps religious congregations plan for future retirement Rising costs — Like many Americans, religious needs, even as they continue to serve the people of God. communities face the monumental challenge of funding eldercare. I understand you are asked to support many worthy causes. I invite you only to give Changing demographics — By 2029, retired what you can. Most importantly, please pray for God’s continued blessing on all our religious are projected to outnumber women and men religious. Rest assured, they are praying for you. wage-earners by nearly three to one.

Yours devotedly in Christ, The collection for the retired religious has affected her life in two ways: first, she has been doing talks about the retired religious at various parishes since the collection began. Second, in the early years her community didn’t have to worry about finances because they had good finan- cial planners but as they aged and died off finances got Most Rev. Roger J. Foys, D.D. tighter. Bishop of Covington “Our numbers are so much smaller,” Sister Kathleen said. “And medical bills are higher.” Benedictine Sister Joan Fraenzle celebrated her 60th jubilee this year as a religious. Sister Joan was one of three children born to her parents in Covington. Her brother, Wilfred, was ordained a priest by Bishop Richard Ackerman in 1964 and served in both the Diocese of Covington and the Diocese of Lexington where he was serving when he died in 2017. Sister Joan attended the Academy of Our Lady of Retired Benedictine Sisters still serving LaSalette, Covington, all 12 years. “I had always said that I was being called [to a religious life],” said Sister Joan, “but through ministriesof prayer and presence when I was graduating from high school I had serious doubts whether I was called or not. I decid- Monica Yeamans ed to go ahead and try it and so I’ve made 60 Editorial Assistant years of it.” The annual Retirement Fund for Religious collection She taught school for a couple years will be held in all parishes of the diocese the weekend of then trained as a medical technologist at Dec. 14–15. It is a time to remember the tremendous contri- Our Lady of Cincinnati College (founded bution local women religious have made to the education- by the Sisters of Mercy in 1935 which later al, spiritual and medical growth of the diocese. merged with Xavier University in 1980) and Benedictine Sister Kathleen Ryan, one of seven chil- worked in the hospitals her community dren, was raised in Erlanger and attended the two St. was associated with for most of her life. Henry schools grade school all the way through high “It means a lot to be able to help other school. people,” said Sister Joan about her career. “I don’t know when I realized I had a calling [to reli- “And to be supported by other sisters.” Now gious life],” Sister Kathleen said. “But I had an aunt who that Sister Joan is retired she is still help- was a Sister of Loretta. I really loved her a lot and she ing others by driving other sisters to would come and visit us periodically. I thought I had want- appointments and doing shopping for the ed to be a sister but at that time I was very young. I had sisters and the monastery. At the been taught by the Benedictine sisters all my life so I went monastery Sister Joan is also in charge of to the Benedictines.” the dining room. When Sister Kathleen entered the Benedictine commu- One of Sister Joan’s favorite Scripture nity she attended Villa Madonna College where she verse also comes from Psalms, chapter majored in elementary education. She has taught in many Benedictine Sister Joan Fraenzle Benedictine Sister Kathleen Ryan 46:10: “Be still and know that I am God.” Messenger December 6, 2019 3

Cooley photos Diocesan employees recognized for yearsofservice At the annual Service Awards luncheon, Nov. 22, Bishop Roger Foys recognized 15 employees for milestone years of service to the Diocese of Covington. All employees of the diocesan Curia, Catholic Charities and St. Anne Retreat Center attended the event.

(above left) Steve Koplyay was recognized for 35 years of service; (above center) Donna Hampton celebrates 25 years and (right) Laura Keener, 20 years of service. (below left) Bishop Foys Those honored at the annual Service Awards congratulates Mike Murray on his 10 years of service and (below luncheon are: right) Michael Lyons for five years of service. Five years of service Terri Glossner, Finance Office Brian Harvey, Buildings and Properties Office Jackie Kaiser, School Lunch Program Office Karen Little, St. Anne Retreat Center Michael Lyons, St. Anne Retreat Center Alan Pickett, Catholic Charities Dale Saner, Buildings and Properties Office Patty Wagner, Department of Catholic Schools

10 years of service Mike Murray, Stewardship and Mission Services Anna Phillips, Catholic Charities Jamie Schroeder, Chancery Save the date—‘MissVirginia’screening 15 years of service The Catholic Conference of Kentucky and the financial aid available to families, making educational Msgr. William Neuhaus, Kentucky Parents Network are co-hosting a free screening choice an option for all families and not just families with Diaconal Formation Office of the movie “Miss the financial ability to afford that option. Virginia,” Dec. 16, 6 “Miss Virginia” is only one success 20 years of service p.m., at the Ft. Wright story among many. The majority of Laura Keener, Messenger and Civic Club. states have educational choice programs Communications Office The goal of this and 18 states have Scholarship Tax event is to inform, Credit programs similar to the one that 25 years of service inspire and empower the CCK is trying to pass in Kentucky. Donna Hampton, Chancery local families and The battle has been fought and won in 35 years of service advocates for educa- other states such as Indiana, Illinois, tional choice. This will Ohio and Tennessee. A recent poll shows Steve Koplyay, Human Resources be a fun and casual that over 60 percent of Kentuckians event with a want educational choice — it is only a Christmas theme. matter of time before the proposal Guests will receive becomes a reality. dinner, gift bags and Be inspired by attending the screen- an opportunity to meet ing of “Miss Virginia.” The movie is other parents who are rated PG-13 (some language, gang/drug Bishop’s supporting greater activity) and may not be appropriate for Schedule educational choices younger viewers. The Civic Club has a and watch the story of maximum, seated capacity of 200. RSVP Miss Virginia Walden on Eventbrite ahead of the event. Dec. 10 Dec. 13 Ford, who organized Blue Ribbon celebration, Priests continuing education with other parents for St. Thomas School, meeting, 10 a.m. educational opportu- Ft. Thomas, 10:30 a.m. Diocesan Staff annual nities for her family. Your’re invited Cathedral Parish Council Christmas gathering, 6–9 p.m. Recently hailed as a Movie: ‘Miss Virginia’ meeting, 6:30 p.m. “must-see” movie by Dec. 14 Dec. 11 Cathedral Parish annual USA Today, the film Date: Monday, Dec. 16 follows a struggling inner-city mother who sacrifices Catholic Conference of Christmas gathering, Bishop everything to give her son a good education. Unwilling to Kentucky meeting, Louisville, Howard Memorial Time: 6 p.m., dinner; 6:30 p.m., movie begins 11 a.m. Auditorium, Covington, allow him to stay in a dangerous school, she launches a 6 p.m. movement that could save his future — and that of thou- Location: Ft. Wright Civic Club Dec. 12 sands like him. 115 Kennedy Rd., Covington Individual meeting, 9 a.m. Dec. 15 For the last several years the CCK and Ed Choice Episcopal Council meeting, Mass, Cathedral Basilica of Kentucky have been working to pass Scholarship Tax RSVP: https://www.eventbrite.com 10 a.m. the Assumption, Covington, 10 a.m. Credits for families and children in Kentucky. A (search for “Miss Virginia” & Christmas party) Diocesan Finance Council Scholarship Tax Credit program would help thousands of meeting, 1:30 p.m. Kentucky students succeed by increasing the amount of 4 December 6, 2019 Messenger COMMENTARY Catholic social teaching and the themeof the‘Common Good’ In “Democracy Versus the Market,” a chapter in “The in the writings of St. Augustine and St. Thomas Aquinas, value of a person created in the image and likeness of God Future of Capitalism” (1996), the late Lester C. Thurow (d. refined insights into the meaning of the common good. and redeemed by Christ. The totality of social conditions 2016) contrasted the differing “assumptions of democracy However, the impact of the Enlightenment in time allowing persons to achieve their communal and individual and capitalism about the right distribution of power.” reduced that received conception to the pursuit of private fulfillment is known as the common good. Solidarity refers to Professor Thurow interests and private goods. Hence, today, the ancient ques- the virtue enabling the human family to share fully the treas- was a professor of eco- tion of politics in the broad sense — How ought we to live ure of material and spiritual goods, and subsidiarity is the COMMENTARY nomics at M.I.T. He noted together?” — occasions no single normative response to how coordination of society’s activities in a way that supports the that democracy’s com- citizens should arrange their life together in the public internal life of the local communities.” mitment to political square. “Gaudium et Spes,” the Second Vatican Council’s equality does not harmo- From this historical perspective, Alasdair MacIntyre’s “Pastoral Constitution on the Church in the Modern World” nize with rising inequali- “After Virtue” (1981) provides a trenchant philosophical cri- (1965), formulates Church social teaching on the principle of ty generated by capital- tique of the decline of virtue ethics and the ascendancy of the common good in this manner: “Because of the closer ism. He observed that moral relativism in a postmodern age. In 2007, the third edi- bonds of human interdependence and their spread over the “[c]apitalism can argue tion of this modern classic still maps out a way through the whole world we are witnessing a widening of the role of the that the economic ideological maze that fogs the horizon of contemporary common good, which is the sum total of social conditions process is fair, but it has ethics. which allow people, either as groups or as individuals, to to be agnostic about the reach their fulfillment more fully and more easily.” (GS, n. 26) ‘rightness’ and ‘fairness’ Accordingly, the identification of the responsibility for the of any specific outcome.” ‘The Church’s social teaching ensuing reciprocal rights and obligations on the part of More than a decade can be summed up as humanity is central: “Every group must take into account later, Robert B. Reich the needs and legitimate aspirations of every other group, Father Ronald Ketteler published the obligation of every individual and still more of the human family as a whole.” “Supercapitalism” (2007). In the light of universal and inviolable rights, the Pastoral In this recent study, the author intellectually grapples with a to contribute to the good of society, Constitution spells out in broad strokes the elements of the similar problem, namely, the erosion of the relationship in the interests of justice and common good: “… to have ready access to all that is neces- between capitalism and democracy in the U.S. sary for a genuinely human life: for example, food, clothing, In a précis of his position in the November 2007 issue of in pursuit of the “option of the poor.”’ housing, the right freely to choose his state of life and set up “The American Prospect,” Professor Reich writes that capi- — A statement by the Catholic Bishops’ a family, the right to education, work, to his good name, to talism and democracy in the U.S. ideally would interact as Conference of England and Wales (1996) respect, to proper knowledge, the right to act according to the “mutually reinforcing, or at least fundamentally compatible.” dictates of conscience and to safeguard his privacy, and right- Yet, in the current state of affairs, democracy is becoming In the Prologue, Professor MacIntyre again defends the ful freedom even in matters of religion.” weakened in some major areas of civic life. tradition of virtues as being “lived out by those constructing At mid-20th century, the papal social encyclicals of Pope The author explains: “While the stock market has soared and sustaining forms of community directed towards the John XXIII contributed to the theology of the common good, and consumers have received better and better deals, these shared achievement of these common goods without which now in an international context. In particular, the encyclicals gains have been accompanied by widening inequalities of the ultimate human good cannot be achieved.” “Mater et Magistra” (“Christianity and Social Progress,” income and wealth, heightened job insecurity, the loss of With no less conviction, MacIntyre reaffirms his original 1961) and “Pacem in Terris” (“Peace on Earth,” 1963) vibrant Main Streets, and environmental hazards such as assessment of modern liberal political societies: “Liberal affirmed the validity of an international common good. global warming.” political societies are characteristically committed to deny- The Catechism of the Catholic Church (1997) treats “the Thus, the distinctive role of democracy ought “to accom- ing any place for a determinate conception of the human principle of the common good.” under the heading plish what can only be achieved by citizens joining together good in their public discourse, let alone allowing that their “Participation in Social Life.” (CCC. nn. 1905-1912) with other citizens to determine the rules of the game, to common life should be grounded in such a conception.” The Catechism links the common good with human seek the common good over and above individual goods.” Hence, government must stand neutral “as between rival con- sociality: “… the good of each individual is necessarily relat- Reich’s proposal for reinvigorating a public sense of the ceptions of the human good.” In reality, then, liberalism fos- ed to the common good, which in turn can be defined only in common good raises a much-needed voice for a fresh direc- ters “a kind of institutional order that is inimical to the con- reference to the human person …” (CCC, n. 1905) Repeating tion in social policy. But, beneath the surface of current polit- struction and sustaining of the types of communal relation- the definition of the common good found in “Gaudium et ical rhetoric lies a deeper question — what is meant by the ship required for the best kind of human life.” Spes,” the Catechism emphasizes that “[t]he common good “common good”? Does the temptation to parse the phrase Nevertheless, Professor MacIntyre is not sympathetically concerns the life of all.” (CCC, n. 1906) merely in terms of conflicts of interests rather than of moral throwing in his lot with contemporary conservatism. In his The political community serves as the locus where each ideals trump the search for a normative account of common judgment, conservatism is “in too many ways a mirror image human community discovers “its most complete realization” good and solidarity? of the liberalism that it professedly opposes.” At bottom, the of the common good. Consequently, the state plays a proper In short, to what extent has a viable public philosophy, conservative advocacy of the free market economy in order role in promoting “the common good of civil society, its citi- that is, a consensus on a substantive core of shared moral to structure common life reflects “an individualism as corro- zens and intermediate bodies.” (CCC, n. 1910) goods at the heart of a pluralistic society, survived on the sive as that of liberalism.” Lastly, the Catechism acknowledges that the increased national scene? For Alasdair Maclntyre, the modern liberal state serves to global interdependence implies “a universal common good.” The title of Jesuit Father David Hollenbach’s 1999 Santa provide “the arena in which each individual seeks his or her (CCC, n. 1911) Clara University Lecture — “The Common Good in a Divided own private good.” “Economic Justice for All,” the 1986 pastoral letter of the Society” — focuses on the challenges involved with rediscov- The tradition of Catholic social doctrine numbers the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, incorporates the theme ering a consensus on a public philosophy in a world of “cul- principle of the common good among its foundational con- of the common good throughout its teaching on the issues of ture wars.” The conclusion of the lecture states: “When we cepts. justice and economic life in the United States. begin to take steps towards this shared good, we will be on a The “Compendium of the Social Doctrine of the Church” In line with “Dignitatis Humanae,” “The Declaration on path marked out for us by the deepest traditions of Western summarizes four permanent principles of Church social doc- Religious Liberty” (1965) of the Second Vatican Council, the and Christian thought. We will be on a path toward the trine: 1) the bedrock principle of the dignity of the human economic pastoral affirms the moral function of government American public life healed of its deepest wounds and on the person, 2) the common good, 3) subsidiarity, and 4) solidarity. as being engaged with “protecting human rights and secur- way to a new realization of the good that is common.” (In (CSDC, n. 160) These interrelated principles are derived from ing basic justice for all members of the commonwealth.” 2002, Father Hollenbach completed “Christian Ethics and the faith and reason and comprise a radical defense for the While the responsibility for the common good is incumbent Common Good,” a major study of the question.) sacredness and transcendence of human persons. on society as a whole, government serves the public good of A traditional normative ethic framed the pivotal political On May 3, 2008, Pope Benedict XVI referred to the society by guaranteeing “the minimum conditions that make question in this fashion: “How can we together pursue the Compendium (CSDC, nn. 164-170) in his “Address to the this rich social activity possible, namely, human rights and common good?” More and more, rival and incompatible Participants in the 14th Session of the Pontifical Academy of justice.” (EJ, n. 122) assumptions in a postmodern context have reformulated that Social Sciences.” The theme of the assembly was “Pursuing As a moral priority for the nation, the common good question to read, “How can we pursue our private interests the Common Good: How Solidarity and Subsidiarity Can “demands justice for all, the protection of the human rights with the least interference?” Work Together.” of all.” (EJ, n. 85) The substance of a theory of the common good originated In examining the interrelationship of these foundational Father Ronald Ketteler is director of ecumenism, episcopal in ancient Greek and Roman thought. Over centuries, principles of Catholic social teaching, the now pope-emeritus liaison to the Messenger and professor of theology at Thomas medieval Christian philosophers and theologians, especially encapsulated their meaning: “Human dignity is the intrinsic More University.

(UPS-403-650) Published by the Roman Catholic Diocese of Covington, Ky.; 44 issues a year Bishop Roger J. Foys...... Publisher VOL. 89 NO. 42 (weekly except from June 1 to mid-August, when published every other week; not Rev. Ronald M. Ketteler ...... Episcopal Liaison MESSENGER published the week after Easter and two weeks at Christmas/New Year’s). Subscription rate: Laura Keener ...... Editor, General Manager $19 per year; $40 foreign. Periodical Postage paid at Covington, KY 41012 and additional Monica Yeamans...... Editorial Assistant Official newspaper of the Diocese of Covington mailing office Cincinnati, Ohio 45203. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to MESSENGER, Kim Holocher...... Advertising Manager 1125 Madison Ave., Covington, KY 41011-3115. Laura Gillespie...... Production Coordinator/Designer 1125 Madison Ave. • Covington, Ky. 41011-3115 Advertising deadline: Wednesday noon, 9 days prior to publication date. Telephone: (859) 392-1500 E-mail: [email protected] Editorial deadline: Friday noon, 7 days prior to date. www.covdio.org Subscriptions, address changes: Contact Circulation Dept. at above address. Messenger December 6, 2019 5 COMMENTARY Alesson from Why did theWall fall,30years ago? November 9 marked the 30th anniversary of the peace- new courage, rooted in the conviction that “Rome” now the keyboard ful breach of the Berlin Wall — the symbolic high point had their backs (as it hadn’t in the 1970s). The readings for the second Sunday of Advent — of the Revolution of 1989, But I will happily accept Professor Gaddis’s citation of Cycle “A” are: Isaiah 11:1 10; Romans 15:4 9; and THE CATHOLIC which would be completed June 2, 1979, as a signal moment in this process. What Matthew 3:1 12. DIFFERENCE seven weeks later by the happened that day? Unbelievably, after more than 30 When I make a decision, I like the alternatives to be fall of the Czechoslovak years of communist repression, a pope from behind the crystal clear. I like it to be the difference between black communist regime and iron curtain celebrated Mass in Warsaw’s Victory Square. and white. That makes it a lot easier to come to a conclu- Vaclav Havel’s election as And during that hitherto unimaginable event, a vast sion. The more gray the that country’s president. A crowd chanted, “We want God! We want God!” issues, the more difficult few days before the actual That dramatic scene was the curtain-raiser on nine EIGHTH DAY it is to decide. anniversary, German for- days of national renewal in which John Paul, in dozens Additionally I find in eign minister Haiko Maas of speeches and addresses, never mentioned politics or myself a bias that prefers penned a brief essay on the economics once and ignored the Polish communist gov- to see situations as reasons why the Wall came ernment completely. Rather, he played numerous varia- “either, or” rather than down, which was striking tions on one great theme: “You are not who they say you “both, and.” I don’t like to for what Mr. Mass didn’t are. Remember who you are — reclaim the truth about have to try to bring two mention. yourselves as a nation formed by a Christian history and very different ideas George Weigel He did not mention a vital faith — and you will eventually discover tools of together in some sort of NATO steadfastness resistance that communism cannot match.” The demand compromise resolution against a vast Soviet campaign of agitation and propa- for religious freedom, in other words, was at the center of that requires more effort ganda over western military modernization in the 1980s. the John Paul II-inspired Solidarity movement in Poland, than simply “doing it my He did not mention President Ronald Reagan or Prime even as it became an increasingly prominent part of the way” this time and “your Minister Margaret Thatcher — he didn’t even mention human rights resistance to communism in West German Chancellor Helmut Kohl. Czechoslovakia, Lithuania and what was then the Father Daniel Vogelpohl way” next time. As we celebrate this From my point of view, however, the most glaring Ukrainian Soviet Socialist Republic. second Sunday of Advent, the Scriptures and the Church omission in Mr. Maas’s essay was his complete lack of Getting this history straight is important, not just as a challenge me to change my ways a bit. I am asked to seek attention to the pivotal figure in the Revolution of 1989, matter of intellectual hygiene but for the future. Public a way of reconciling differences, whether they are differ- Pope St. John Paul II. Just as oddly, the foreign minister officials who do not grasp the centrality of religious free- ences of opinion, politics, economics or methods of oper- neglected to mention the moral revolution — the revolu- dom to the collapse of European communism and the ation. This Sunday challenges me to see that two very dif- tion of conscience — that John Paul II helped ignite and emergence of new democracies in central and eastern ferent people can work together, each in his or her own that gave the Revolution of 1989 its unique human tex- Europe are unlikely to appreciate the centrality of reli- way to hasten the kingdom of God. ture. This is bad history. And bad history always raises gious freedom to free and virtuous 21st-century societies I am reminded of a song that was popular several warning flags about the future. and to 21st-century democracy. It is a sadness to note that years ago that spoke of the ebony and ivory on a piano Professor John Lewis Gaddis of Yale University is Foreign Minister Maas is not alone in his ignorance, and keyboard existing together in perfect harmony. I am not America’s most distinguished historian of the Cold War. in what one fears may be his insouciance about the first trained in music theory, but I do know that my favorite He is not a Catholic, so he could not be accused of special freedom. music — jazz and blues — cannot be played on either all pleading or sectarian bias in writing that “when John A few days before the 30th anniversary of the Wall white keys or on just the black keys. Both are required to Paul II kissed the ground at the Warsaw Airport on June coming down, former Irish president Mary McAleese produce the harmony characteristic of those styles of 2, 1979, he began the process by which communism in gave a lecture at Trinity College in Dublin. Did she cele- music. Poland — and ultimately everywhere — would come to an brate her Church’s role in liberating a continent? No. I believe that St. Paul has that sort of idea in mind end.” My friendly amendment would be to note (as the Instead, she made the bizarre claim that infant baptism when he urges us to “live together in perfect harmony Polish pope did) that a lot had been happening in east and the consequent obligation of parents to raise their with one another according to the spirit of Christ Jesus, central Europe before John Paul’s June 1979 pilgrimage baptized children in the faith may violate the U.N.’s so that with one heart and voice you may glorify God the to Poland; so the pope did not so much begin, as he did Covenant on the Rights of the Child. Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.” (Today’s second read- accelerate, the process of dismantling European commu- Hard to believe, but true — and an urgent reminder ing.) nism through an effective nonviolent resistance based on that bad history makes for bad public policy. This sort of harmony is certainly what Isaiah envi- the assertion of basic human rights. And he did that in George Weigel is a senior fellow of the Ethics and Public sions in the first reading when he tells us that such natu- part by giving the Catholic components of the resistance Policy Center in Washington, D.C. ral enemies as the wolf and lamb, the calf and lion, the cow and bear, and even a small baby and a cobra will all live together. Their harmony will not be just a peaceful Practicing sport-parenting coexistence, but a true living and working together based Do you know who the host of a youth sports event is? Not Promote sports participation as the opportunity to be physi- on “knowledge of the Lord” which has the Spirit as its the coaches. Not the officials. Not even the league or school cally active, to learn how to work with others, and how to origin. where the contest is being held. The young athletes are the deal with failure. Hint: These attributes are all important to The liturgy of this Sunday demands that we recognize hosts of the event. Think about it. Which groups of people being successful adults. But make sure they are participat- that we are wolf and lamb who need to be reconciled. need to be present for the ing as long as they want to participate. Many young athletes John the Baptist is the one who challenges us to “give VIEWPOINT youth sports event to occur? have experienced burn out because adults — namely par- some evidence that you mean to reform.” He is talking to It may be a little less ents and/or coaches — have made the experience less than us who might consider ourselves to be fairly good organized without the coach- fun for the athlete. Christians already. He warns us not to pride ourselves on es and officials, but I would — Allow every bit of coaching to the coach. No, I mean the fact that we might already show some evidence of guess that those children every bit! As someone who has coached 10 years of high God’s favor. That was the whole point of his warning the athletes could figure out a school athletics and almost every year of my adult life, I can Pharisees not to rest on the claim that “Abraham is our way to play on their own if say there are many ways to teach skills and strategies in all Father.” Instead, he urges us to continue to grow in love, put in a gym or pool or on a sports. Parents may be telling a child something that is com- even with our enemies. field or track. They may pletely contradicting what their coach is telling them. The person who rests on past accomplishments and even have more fun without Hearing mixed messages benefits no one, especially the present satisfaction with his or her relationship with adults around. Clearly the young athlete. A coach I know tells parents to not use action God and others will face dire consequences. “Every tree athletes are the hosts and words when they are cheering for their child. Imagine that. that is not fruitful will be cut down and thrown into the should be treated as such. You’re not allowed to say: “Run! Dribble! Shoot!” No verbs. fire.” The opening prayer of today’s Mass reminds us, Rich Hoyt During sport workshops I Try it. Your child will be better for it. too, that we face a continuing challenge to grow : “May no ask parents what benefits — Love your child unconditionally. Remember what I earthly undertaking hinder those who set out in haste to they want their children to take away from playing sports? mentioned in the first point — your child is not going to be meet your Son, but may our learning of heavenly wis- Their responses include — learning how to be part of a successful all the time when competing in sports. Even pro- dom gain us admittance to his company.” team; physical activity; and dealing with adversity. I know fessionals drop balls, miss wide open shots, and pass the ball During Advent we prepare for the coming of the king- that I am “preaching to the choir” when I hear these out of bounds. Your children are human. So are parents. I dom. Part of that preparation must be the reconciliation responses. Those are the kind of benefits that our young was once on a high school football coaching staff where our of ourselves with those persons and those elements of people should be getting out of their sports experience. head coach frequently reminded us that our players were all our lives and culture that prohibit us and our world from Part of a sports parents’ responsibility is to ensure chil- “children of God” whenever we were disappointed in a per- knowing the full joy of harmony in the Lord in his king- dren take ownership of their participation long before they formance. Parents should remember that, too. dom. play the first competitive event of the season. Here are some — Model positive relationships. This means to the offi- Father Daniel Vogelpohl is pastor of Blessed Sacrament positive examples of how parents might accomplish this: cials, too. Above all, don’t complain. Don’t complain about Parish, Ft. Mitchell. — Ensure they are playing because they are having fun. (Continued on page 9) 6 December 6, 2019 Messenger

Incarnation. Mary—areflectionofGod’s goodness and purity For her part, Mary takes on her active role in the David Cooley sin (willful disobedience of God, either venial or mortal). plan of salvation at the Annunciation. Mary, who is Messenger Contributor Like the rest of humanity, Mary was saved by Jesus Christ declared by the angel as “full of grace,” on behalf of the The Church’s teaching on the Immaculate Conception and her salvation was accomplished through his work on entire human race, says “yes” to God’s will that all be saved — which is celebrated Dec. 8 — is beautiful, important and the Cross. And, like the rest of us, Mary was saved from through his Son, Jesus Christ. God does not force himself often misunderstood. The idea that Mary was conceived sin, but in a different and more glorious way. Most of us upon us; Mary, the new Eve, stood as the representative of without the blemish of original sin is sometimes mistak- are saved from the pit of sin by being pulled out through all humanity to agree for God to undo what our first par- enly considered to be a relatively new idea. The truth is, the sacrament of baptism and a gift of faith; Mary was ents had done. Her obedience stands in contrast to Eve’s the Church Fathers have always held that Mary was “all- saved from falling into the pit in the first place by the pre- disobedience. holy”— but eventually, this idea needed On this solemnity we cel- to be explored, defended and explained ebrate the fact that Mary explicitly. The Immaculate Conception was graced with sinless per- is the term used to define the idea that fection from the first instant Mary was conceived and born without of her existence, in view of sin. The Church also teaches that Mary, the merits of her Son Jesus who was “full of grace,” lived out her Christ, in light of her pre- days without ever committing actual destination to be his mother. sin. What does this mean to us? The doctrine of the Immaculate We are all called to holi- Conception, long recognized in the ness and God’s graces flow Catholic tradition, was proclaimed through the Church to assist infallibly on Dec. 8, 1854, by Blessed us. The choice to lead a holy Pope Pius IX. In his apostolic constitu- life is ours to make. We are tion “Ineffabilis Deus,” Pope Pius IX redeemed because Christ asserted that Mary, “from the first died and rose from the dead instance of her conception, by a singu- for us, but we still have to lar privilege and grace granted by God, accept him in faith and in view of the merits of Jesus Christ, respond by following the the Savior of the human race, was pre- path to the Father that he served exempt from all stain of origi- has laid out for us. He prom- nal sin.” ised to never leave us, and so The concept of original sin is the he hasn’t. God is with us — Christian belief that the whole human still, we must choose to pick race has been negatively affected by sin up our cross and make our and everyone is in need of the salva- way up the moutain; only tion of Christ. “Ineffabilis Deus,” then is our salvation com- states that by a singular (one time only) plete. privilege of God (a gratuitous gift), and And so, the splendor of through the merits of her Son (she is holiness has been offered to still saved by Christ), Mary was pre- each and every one of us. As served from the shame of sin. And so, “Lumen Gentium” teaches, from the first moments of her exis- “All the faithful of Christ of tence Mary possessed the fullness of whatever rank or status, are God’s grace. In other words, God pre- called to the fullness of pared a special woman to be the moth- Christian life and to the per- er of his Son. Remember, Jesus received his humanity, his venient initiative of God’s grace, a grace that precedes fection of charity.” DNA, from Mary; how appropriate it is that the one who human decision — a unique and wonderful gift. Just as the Israelites were called to be obedient to God’s would be the Mother of God Made Flesh would be a pure The Immaculate Conception of Mary was not for her law, the Gospel message teaches that we can receive God’s and spotless person. In light of this fact, sin remains com- own sake, but as a way of preparing her for what came mercy only when we show mercy to others; this is the pletely disconnected from God. next. The dogma has profound Christological implica- heart of Jesus’ message. By uniting our will with God’s, it The state of original sin is a lack of grace found in tions. The Son of God became man to reveal his Father, becomes possible for us to have an intimate union with the mankind as a result of our first parents — Adam and Eve. but, first, in order to do so he must create his own mother. Lord. Mary, the Immaculate Conception, is the fullest The gifts of God’s grace are given to us, ordinarily, through He fashioned her as the most beautiful, virtuous, perfect expression of that intimacy. She is the perfect role model of the merits of Jesus Christ, in the sacraments. In his short woman. He created her immaculate and, in his mercy and faith and trust for us. No human being is closer to Christ book “Mary Mother of the Lord” (1963), Father Karl generosity, kept her that way for all time. Christ is eternal- than the one who carried him in her womb. In her we also Rahner explains that “Mary does not differ from us ly the Son of God without a mother and became the Son of find the fullest expression of maternal love, offering kind- because she possessed these gifts. It is her possession of Man through a mother without an earthly father. He set ness, protection and strength to not only her Son our Lord, them from the beginning, and incomparably, that is the aside his royal rights to suffer a slave’s execution that we but to all those children that make up the Mystical Body of sole difference between her and us.” (p. 49) slaves of sin might become royal children of God. God took Christ. Included in the doctrine of the Immaculate Conception on human nature so that we could take on the divine David Cooley is co-director and office manager, Office of is the idea that Mary was perpetually free from all actual nature. That is part of the mystery that we refer to as the Catechesis and Faith Formation, Diocese of Covington, Ky.

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SistersofDivine Providence celebrate the life and legacyof their founder Kathleen Carroll — Poverty. “Strive to Messenger Contributor Act of Abandonment leave behind the goods of On November 24, the Sisters of to Divine Providence this world to be free for the Divine Providence gathered at mission confided to us by their Province Center in Providence of my God, I adore you in all your designs. God.” Melbourne, Ky., together with I place my destiny in your hands, confiding to you all — Charity. “Undertake Bishop Roger Foys, to celebrate the that I have, all that I am, and all that I am to become — whatever we can to fill 65th anniversary of the beatifica- my body and my soul, my health and reputation, my needs, to relieve distress, tion of their founder, Blessed John life, my death, and my eternal salvation. and to announce the beati- Martin Moye. tude Christ promised.” Born in 1730, in Cutting, As I rely entirely upon you and expect all from your — Abandonment to France, Father Moye has had a pro- goodness, I will not give myself up to any useless Divine Providence. “To go found effect on the diocese of anxiety. I confide to you the success of all my where we are sent; to adapt Covington, centuries hence and undertakings, and in all difficulties I will have recourse to circumstances in the half a world away. The congrega- to you as a never-failing source of help. I know that grace of the present tion he founded established you will either preserve me from the evils I dread, or moment without worry or schools throughout the region, and overeagerness; and in the turn them to my good and your glory. has served in education, health face of difficulty to do calm- care and parish ministry in untold Peaceful and contented in all, I will allow your ly what depends on us and institutions since the sisters first Providence to govern my life without worry or over leave the rest to God.” stepped onto Kentucky soil in 1889. eagerness. Holy, wise, generous, and loving Providence! The lasting legacy of Working as a priest in Metz, Father Moye and the Sisters Father Moye was responsible for a I thank you for the tender care you have taken of me of Divine Providence lives parish that extended well beyond up to this moment. I humbly and earnestly entreat you on in their schools, their stu- the city and its three churches. He to continue the same for me; direct all that I do, guide dents, and the wisdom of developed a concern for the educa- me in your ways, govern me at every moment of my their charism. tion of the children in the country- life, and bring me into the fullness of being that you It was with justified con- side, especially young girls who, he have destined for me from all eternity. fidence that Blessed John found, knew as little about their Martin Moye advised his faith as they did about the world May I please you and give you glory forever. sisters: Abandonment to outside their small villages. Amen. Providence is the virtue that Marguerite Lecomte was the first earns you your name. To — John Martin Moye, founder, woman to volunteer in this effort, practice it, remain without in 1762 and subsequently became Congregation of Divine Providence preference and without the first Sister of Divine attachment, casting all your Providence. cares on the bosom of God. his 10-year sojourn he founded another women’s congrega- When setting out for her first assignment, Sister Providence never forsakes those who confidently abandon tion, the Christian Virgins, with the same mission and Marguerite described this exchange: themselves to it. charism as the Sisters in France. It was the first establish- “Father Moye had me come and said: ‘My daughter, I Kathleen Carroll is communications director for the ment of a women’s congregation in China. am going to take you to your post; I can give you a little Congregation of the Sisters of Divine Providence, When Father Moye returned to France in 1784, he estab- something, but if you wish to abandon yourself to Melbourne, Ky. lished a motherhouse for the congregation and named Providence, you will have more merit…’ I was in my first Sister Rose Methains as superior general. The sisters and fervor, nothing cost me, I responded: ‘Yes, Father, I aban- their ministries flourished until 1789, when the French don myself to Providence.’ The preparations were quickly Revolution suppressed the schools and scattered many made; the basket with a little something for the road and members of the congregation back to their villages or off we went!” abroad to exile. And so it was that those first teachers were well trained Father Moye, Sister Rose Methains, and a few others for their mission, but were rarely well provided for. One escaped to Trier in Germany. Always seeking to serve, they history of the congregation describes their intrepid ven- found a great need among the soldiers of this new war. ture, saying, “They went without material provision and In consequence, while working with his sisters in a hos- lived in great poverty depending for their sustenance upon pital, Father Moye contracted the typhoid fever that would their own industry, the charity of those they served, and claim his life. He died on May 4, 1793. The spot where he especially their trust in God.” was buried (in a common grave, with uncounted others) is It was this last element of their charism that eventually now a public square. won over the wary villagers and earned them the title Father Moye’s reliance on Divine Providence was no “Sisters of Divine Providence,” for they seemed heaven- mistake. Though he died amid difficulty and anonymity, he sent to their students and their families. Call ahead and we can was beatified by Pope Pius XII on Nov. 21, 1954, and the sis- Once the congregation was firmly established in ters of the Congregation of Divine Providence today still have them ready for you. France, Father Moye set his sights further afield. He felt live the fundamental virtues he encouraged: called to travel as a missionary to China, an endeavor so — Simplicity. “To be direct and true in our relations dangerous that he felt certain he would not return. During with God, with others, and ourselves.”

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Notre Dame Sister shares new ministry designing Christmas greeting cards Notre Dame Sister Mary Evelynn Reinke I began taking pictures after receiving a camera for my clicking away as a distracted gold finch feasted on a large Messenger Contributor golden jubilee of religious profession. Ever the nature lover, sunflower. I’ve always liked to follow a path through the weeds or I liked to capture landscapes, trees, sunsets. I also found that The pictures I accumulated seemed too nice not to share. woods to see where it would take me. I meandered into pho- looking through the lens focused my attention so that I rec- I began making homemade cards from materials I found in tography that way. An inconspicuous path led me much fur- ognized a world of small beauties all around. the convent. They gave some pleasure and reaped a little ther than I could have anticipated. Soon I was tracking butterflies, angling for a good shot, or profit, but the process and the results left a lot to be desired. Then I discovered Plymouth Cards. The company manufac- tures note cards made to hold a photograph. Their large array of colors is wonderful. The right color selection just makes a photo pop. At first my cards were used strictly in house: for sisters’ birthdays, feast days, and jubilees. Then a friend offered to sell them in her consignment shop. Next the cards were offered at our annual July 4 fundraiser. That was last sum- mer. Since then, the cards have taken off, largely publicized by word of mouth. Now I sell them to retreat groups who meet at the convent and to anyone who stops in for cards. Thanks to our Development Director, they are also being offered online. I’m excited to see where that venture will lead. I feel so tickled about the Sister Mary Evelyn Reinke whole experience. Who could have and some of her cards. guessed where the path would take me by the time I was an octogenarian! Notre Dame Sister Mary Evelynn Reinke’s Christmas cards are available for purchase. They come in a 5-pack of assorted cards for $20. No two packs are the same. Proceeds benefit Sisters of Notre Dame ministries. Purchase cards online at https://sndky.weshareonline.org/Cards or call Margie Schnelle at the SND Office of Mission Advancement at (859) 392-8229. Messenger December 6, 2019 9

Blessings shared,blessings received

Family deeply rooted in ACUE schools Jim Danneman, Alliance for Catholic Urban Education (ACUE) Annual Fund chair, recently joined the students of Holy Family School, Covington, for morning Mass at St. Benedict Church, Covington. The Danneman Family has long ties to the St. Benedict/Holy Family community. Mr. Danneman’s mother, Kathy Franxman Danneman, is a graduate of St. Benedict School, now Holy Family School. The family ties to ACUE also run deep as Mrs. Danneman has provided leadership to several efforts in support of the ACUE schools, her most recent involvement came as a way to memorialize her brother, Tom Franxman, also a dedicated ACUE volunteer. (above) Catholic Charities, Diocese of Covington staff Kristina Jolly, volunteer Jim Danneman now continues the family tradition of serving the urban school network as chair of coordinator; Alan Pickett, executive director and Lisa Savage, volunteer, unload the appeal that supports tuition assistance for the many economically disadvantaged children of the trucks for the 2019 Thanksgiving outreach. ACUE schools. He also serves on the ACUE Development Advisory Board. (below) A team of Catholic Charities volunteers (from left) Justin Jolly, Kristina Jolly, volunteer coordinator, Kathy Burton, Myrna Ward, Ellen Habermehl, Chris ACUE assists Holy Family School as well as St. Augustine School and Prince of Peace Montessori, Dennemann and Jerry Sigl helped distribute Thanksgiving dinners to families. Covington; Holy Cross Elementary, Latonia; St. Anthony School, Taylor Mill; and Holy Trinity School, Bellevue.

for their sport. Help show them the actions Sport-parenting of an athlete with high character. While col- (Continued from page 5) laborating with a coach, address instances coaches. Don’t complain about officials. where a lack of character was displayed in Complaining is one of the worst things a competition and point out when their sports parent can do. That sends a message actions demonstrate outstanding character. that the child never does wrong. It takes What gets rewarded gets done. humility to be involved in any relationship While parents are enjoying their children and any activity, especially ones with team- as they play youth sports it’s important to mates, coaches, opponents and officials, understand the responsibility to support where everyone is going to make a mistake them and promote a positive youth sports every once in a while. Support everyone — environment. Be sure to treat student ath- coaches, teammates and anyone that is pres- letes as the host. ent in a child’s athletic experience. Rich Hoyt is an assistant professor at the — Use teachable moments to form their University of Cincinnati, a parishioner at St. character. As educators, we say that parents Agnes Parish, Ft. Wright, and a longtime are the primary educators of their children. youth and high school coach. He is the lead Use examples from their play to teach them trainer for the Play Like A Champion Today how to become a better person, not just a bet- program in the Diocese of Covington. Thanksgiving, with its focus on grati- tacted Kristina Jolly, volunteer coordinator, ter athlete. Help them to first set moral goals tude for the bounty with which God blesses Catholic Charities. his people, provides opportunities to truly Ms. Doggett sent the word out and the St. demonstrate thankfulness. This year, Pius School and Parish families quickly parishioners of St. Pius X Parish, responded. The beneficiaries of the gen- Edgewood, provided for 86 families the gift erosity of the St. Pius Parish include not of Thanksgiving dinner with all the trim- only the families of the St. Joseph mings. These families include the residents Apartments but others as well. Meals were of St. Joseph Apartments and others in the provided to many families whose children community. attend ACUE schools where Catholic St. Joseph Apartments are two, eight- Charities Therapeutic Counseling provides unit apartment buildings in Elsmere mental health counseling to students at no owned and operated by Catholic Charities, cost to their family, as well as to a number Diocese of Covington. The 16 families or of clients of both Catholic Charities and individuals living in the apartments had the Parish Kitchen on Pike Street in previously experienced homelessness and Covington. through supportive services provided by Catholic Charities supplied St. Pius with Catholic Charities and funding provided by the first names of recipients, and volun- US Department of Housing and Urban teers prayed for each as they assembled the Development are working toward stability. items for the family’s Thanksgiving dinner. The holiday dinners allow families to enjoy Donations were delivered to Catholic a celebration from which they might other- Charities’ offices where the families picked wise feel excluded. up the ingredients for their Thanksgiving Danette Doggett, a 20-year member of dinners in anticipation of a family holiday the St. Pius Christian Outreach Committee, celebration. A celebration improbable but said that the parish, which has long sup- for the parishioners of St. Pius who seek to ported area charities at Thanksgiving, share the gifts that God has given to us with decided to focus its efforts this year on the less fortunate — and those at Catholic those who were not receiving assistance Charities who extend a hand in the hope of from other charities, which is why she con- changing a life. 10 December 6, 2019 Messenger PEOPLE AND EVENTS

Newsworthy Happy birthday to Father Michael Barth, pastor, St. Paul Parish, Florence, Dec. 11 and Deacon Gregory Meier, Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish, Burlington, Dec. 13.

The weekly TV Mass from the Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption will be broadcast on Sunday, 5–6 p.m. on station Me TV WLWT, on channels: over the air 5-2; Spectrum 188 in Kentucky and Cincinnati Bell 23 or 291. Have something to list in “People and Events”? The dead- line for event notices is nine days prior to the desired publi- cation date. E-mail [email protected] no later than the Wednesday before the week you would like the information to appear. Silly Socks for Seminarians Planning an event featuring a speaker or minister from When are socks used as an educational tool? When they are used as a fundraiser to support seminarian education! outside your parish? In the Diocese of Covington, before Students at St. Joseph School, Cold Spring, were able to wear fun socks to raise funds to support the educational needs of contracting the services of a priest or deacon, man or diocesan seminarians. Some of the students in Ms. Sarah Landwehr’s fourth–grade class at St. Joseph School, Cold Spring, woman religious, or lay person, a request for verification in take a minute to show off their silly socks. good standing must be submitted to the Chancery office no later than four weeks before the desired date of service. Dec. 14. Open to all. Call the Diocesan Office of Catechesis The Comboni Missionaries present a Nativity Experience: Screening applications and instructions can be found at and Formation, 392-1500. a room-sized display features moving figures in true-to-life www.covdio.org/chancery/. activities, soft lighting and narration (available in English St. Vincent de Paul NKY “Winter Gear Give-A-Way,” 9 and Spanish). Open nightly beginning Dec. 14 –30. Free Help Parish Kitchen provide warmth for the homeless this a.m.–12 p.m., Dec. 7, Life Learning Center, Covington, and admission. Call (513) 474-4997. winter. New sleeping bags or new twin blankets may be Christo Rey Parish, Florence. A second distribution, 9 a.m.– dropped off at either: Parish Kitchen, Covington, 8–11 a.m. 12 p.m., Dec. 14, Newport Elementary School, Newport, and Northern Kentucky University Newman Center, mission or Catholic Charities, Latonia, 9 a.m.–5 p.m., Monday–Friday. John G. Carlisle Elementary School, Covington. trip, Walls, Mississippi, Dec. 14–19. College students and Call 581-7745. Identification is required. TANK will provide free bus serv- young adults (18+). No expertise needed. Participants must ice (Route 7) from 8 a.m.–12 p.m., Dec. 7. provide own transportation to and from the Sacred Heart “Angel Gabriel,” sung by Sting. “Gabriel’s Message” or Southern Mission. Information 409-8984. “The angel Gabriel from heaven came” is a Basque Sixth annual International nativity display at Bishop Christmas folk carol about the Annunciation to the Virgin Brossart High School, Alexandria. Over 150 nativity sets Harp concert, Dr. Diane Schneider, theologian, therapist, Mary by the archangel Gabriel that she would become the representing 65 countries. Free and open to the public; hand- and harpist, Celtic and inspirational music, 3 p.m., Dec. 15, mother of Jesus Christ the Son of God. Father Gregory icapped accessible. Dec. 8, 15, 22, and 29, 10–4 p.m.; Dec. 24, 9– St. Benedict Church, Covington. All are invited. Freewill Bach will reflect upon the words of this carol and the life of noon. donations accepted. the Blessed Virgin Mary, Wednesdays during Advent, St. Henry Parish, Elsmere; Mass at 7 p.m. Newport Central Catholic High School will offer a 2-hour Father Niby Kanai is leading a trip to Germany, Switzerland high school placement test prep course, Dec. 8 and 11, and France July 14-25, 2020. The focus of the trip will be the Candlelight Mass for young adults, Dec. 6, Divine Mercy 4:30–6:30 p.m., available to all 8th grade students. Fee $20 and Passion Play in Oberammergau, Germany which is per- Parish, Bellevue. Join young adults (18-35) from the diocese includes printed course materials. Pre-register: formed once every 10 years. Visit www.proximotravel.com for our last Candlelight Mass of 2019. Polyphony music and https://www.ncchs.com. Registrations also accepted the day for itinerary. Contact Father Niby, 525-6909. sacred chant by the Frassati Heights Young Adult Choir. of the event. Confessions, 6:30 p.m. Mass, 7 p.m. Social will follow. Washington, D.C., 47th annual March for Life, Jan. 24. An Stephen Snyder, theology teacher, will make a presentation adult/family bus will departs Jan. 23 and returns Jan. 25. Euchre tournament, Catholic Order of Foresters, St. on “The Immaculate Conception,” Dec. 9, 7–8 p.m., Cost: $325 per person double occupancy, $270 per person Catherine Parish, Ft. Thomas, McCrystal Hall, Dec. 7, 6–10 Covington Catholic High School, 1st floor multipurpose triple occupancy, $240 per person quad occupancy. Family p.m. $20 admission. Registration call 750-2242 or e-mail room. Free and open to the public; RSVP rates available upon request. Price includes accommoda- [email protected]. [email protected]. tions and bus travel; $50 deposit due Dec. 6. Contact Peggy Piccola at 392-1500 or e-mail [email protected]. “The Mass as Prayer,” Deacon Jerry Franzen, Covington 14th annual “Christmas Collage” concert, St. Joseph Latin School, two sessions, from 9 a.m.–1 p.m., Dec. 7 and Church, Cold Spring, Dec. 13, 7:30 p.m. featuring Children’s “Reboot!” a one-evening regional event with national Choir, Contemporary Catholic speaker, Chris Stefanik, Jan. 28, 7–9:30 p.m., Ensemble, Glory Ensemble, Northern Kentucky University Student Union. Handbell Choir, instrumen- Information/registration, 620-1813 or talists, Praise Ensemble, www.RealLifeCatholic.com/reboot. Small Ensemble, St. Joseph Choir and Women’s Choir. Bingo every Friday, St. Mary’s undercroft, Alexandria. Jitney games, 7 p.m.; regular games, 8 p.m. Covington Latin School entrance exam, Dec. 14, 9 Volunteer medical interpreters are needed to help a.m. All students in grades Spanish speakers with specialist appointments. Rose 5–8 or high school transfer Garden Center for Hope and Healing, 261-0323. Must be VIR- students are invited to TUS-compliant and able to meet patients at various loca- attend. Register online tions. www.covingtonlatin.org. Help Parish Kitchen, a ministry of Catholic Charities – Join the Comboni Diocese of Covington, provide warmth for the homeless this Missionaries for winter. Donate new sleeping bags or new twin blankets “Breakfast in at either: Parish Kitchen, 141 W. Pike St., Covington, Bethlehem,” Dec. 14, 9–11 Monday–Friday, 8–11 a.m. or Catholic Charities, 3629 Church a.m., $2 per person ($10 per St., Latonia, Monday–Friday, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Contact 581-7745 family); all-you-can eat pan- or [email protected]. cake breakfast, animated Nativity scene, crafts for Madonna Manor “Project Keep Warm” donate new and kids, face painting and gently used blankets, scarves, hats, gloves and socks (new) tours of the mission muse- for local missions and homeless shelters. Drop off Monday– Happy Birthday um. RSVP (513) 474-4997 or Friday, 8 a.m.–8p.m.; weekends 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Call 426-6400. The students and faculty of St. Therese School, Southgate, celebrated Father Clarence e-mail nolan@combonimis- Heitzman’s 90th birthday on Nov. 26. Each grade shared with Father Heitzman what 90 sionaries.org. Retrouvaille — a program to help couples heal and meant to them. Every student made Father. Heitzman a card. renew their marriage relationship. Is your marriage going Messenger December 6, 2019 11 PEOPLE AND EVENTS down the right road, or is it a little off track? Are you already separated or divorced, or thinking about it? Retrouvaille is a Christian-based, Catholic, confidential peer ministry of volunteer couples. Retrouvaille Cincinnati/Tri- State weekend, Jan. 10-12, call (513) 922-6045, or visit www.cincyretrouvaille.org.

St. Charles Resource Center for the Aging is a service to inform, educate and empower seniors and their families who are in need of support services. The consultation service is free and aimed to educate seniors and their families to the resources offered in the community and other aging issues. Contact Margie Volpenhein at 331-3224, ext. 1440.

A faith-based support group, New Beginnings provides separated and divorced individuals the opportunity for heal- ing and growth. Participants will find new understanding of themselves and their relationships and gain courage to dis- cover new life. Sessions at Thomas More University, Crestview Hills. Registration required, call 392-1500, ext. 1592. The next eight-week session is: Wednesdays, Jan. 8 – Feb. 26. well as the overall concept of hospice care. There is no Project Rachel, God’s greatest desire is to forgive. Come cost or obligation to volunteer for those attending hospice back to God who is love and mercy. Project Rachel hotline, training. Classes are held throughout the year. The first (859) 392-1547 or e-mail [email protected]. All calls session can be completed on your own time and ending and e-mails are confidential. with a final, daylong or evening session at the Carol Ann PrimeWise at St. Elizabeth Healthcare offers adults, age 50 & Ralph V. Haile Hospice Center, Edgewood. To register and over, a free network of valuable services especially suit- call Debbie Holloran, Hospice Volunteer Coordinator, at ed to their needs and interests. It’s not a club and there are 301-4622 or e-mail [email protected]. no membership dues or meetings, just lots of benefits, infor- Registration is required. mation, programs and special discounts. PrimeWise can pro- vide information on topics like advance directives and living St. Vincent de Paul, Erlanger, needs volunteers for the wills, Medicare and many health-related concerns. Call 301- call center and food pantry for just a few hours each week. 5999 or e-mail [email protected]. Food pantry volunteers help set up bags of food that are pro- vided to those in need. Call center volunteers assist with For couples in troubled marriages, Retrouvaille is a pro- answering calls for assistance and data entry, 10 a.m.– 2 p.m. gram of healing and renewal consisting of one weekend For information call (859) 446-7721. and six follow-up sessions over the course of three months. Contact: www.cincyretrouvaille.org or (513) 456-5413. The Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption, Covington, will host a DVD faith formation series, “Catholicism” Free support group, Parents of Addicted Loved Ones with Bishop Robert Barron, Tuesday mornings, 9:30– (PAL), meets every Wednesday, 6:30 p.m.–8 p.m. at Catholic 10:30 a.m. Call: 431-2060. Charities, Latonia. Group provides continuing education and support, at no charge, for parents with a son, daughter There will be a Holy Hour on the third Thursday of every or spouse suffering from addiction to alcohol or drugs. No month, at the Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption, cost. Just come. Information, 581-8974 or www.covington- Covington, 3–4 p.m., to pray for victims of sexual abuse by charities.org. clergy and to pray for the Church. All priests of the diocese will be in attendance; the lay faithful are invited to join. The Never. Lose. Hope. Do you have family or a friend in jail Blessed Sacrament will be exposed, concluding with the or prison? Loking for a safe, welcoming community where Chaplet of Divine Mercy and benediction. The sacrament of you are accepted without judgment? Join a free support reconciliation will be available during the Holy Hour. The Advent wreath group, the third Tuesday of every month, 6:30 p.m.–8 p.m., next Holy Hour will be held Thursday, Dec. 19. Some of the teachers at St. Henry School, Elsmere, Catholic Charities, Latonia. All are welcome. Information, organized a STREAM (Science, Technology, Religion, Dave Capella: [email protected] or 581-8974, The Sts. Teresa of Calcutta and Faustina Guild of the Engineering, Arts, Math) wreath-making event for the ext. 117. Catholic Medical Association, Diocese of Covington, students and parish. Three wreaths were available: monthly meeting is held the 4th Thursday at Divine Mercy traditional, hand print, and recycled. All the families St. Elizabeth Hospice hosts volunteer orientation Parish, Bellevue, beginning with Mass, 5:30 p.m.; dinner and enjoyed beginning the season of Advent with a handmade classes. The classes explore issues on death and dying as meeting follow. Visit www.cathmed.org. project.

Knights honor veterans Bishop Flaget Assembly Fourth Degree Knights of Columbus of Northern Kentucky hosted a dinner outing for several Veterans from the VA Hospital in Cincnnati at Fr. Kehoe Council K of C hall in Ludlow recently. The outing was an expression of “thanks” for those who served in the Armed Forces. The hospital bussed the Veterans to the K of C for an exciting after- noon. These men and women rarely get out of the hospital and were very gracious to the K of C.

Messenger December 6, 2019 13

Joyful shoutsof ‘Viva Cristo Rey!’ ring outatclosing Mass for NCYC Natalie Hoefer “Our Scripture readings, particularly Luke’s Gospel Sister Miriam James Heidland, a member of the Society of Catholic News Service account of the crucifixion, depicts one who is declared a Our Lady of the Holy Trinity, and Brian Greenfield as the INDIANAPOLIS — A spirit of joy permeated Lucas Oil king in ridicule, persecution and death,” Archbishop two ran up the ramp to the altar. Stadium as the call-and-response rang out. But it was not Thompson explained. “He is taunted, made to suffer and Father Agustino and McGrady prayed over the next two the typical call heard in the stadium home of the condemned as a criminal. Made to wear a crown of thorns. emcees. Then Sister Miriam, an author and co-host on Indianapolis Colts. Nor was it led by any ordinary fan. Thrust upon a cross as his throne. Bloodied, bruised, beat- Catholic radio, announced the theme for NCYC 2021: “Viva Cristo Rey!” shouted Archbishop Charles C. en and stripped of every thread of human decency.” “Ablaze.” Thompson. And yet we worship him today as our king and Savior, “That means the Holy Spirit is going to come into your life, transform your life (and) set you on fire so you can preach Christ to the ends of the world!” she cried. Greenfield, a campus minister, author and national speaker, added that the 2021 theme comes from chap- ter two of the Acts of the Apostles, “when the Holy Spirit came upon the Upper Room and blessed and empow- ered the Apostles.” “We’ve got two years to get ready for this, two years for what the Holy Spirit wants to do. So what does that mean? It means this: Read Acts, chap- ter two,” he said, following on a call

CNS photo/Natalie Hoefer, The Criterion throughout NCYC 2019 for youths to Archbishop Charles C. Thompson of Indianapolis is the chief celebrant of the closing Mass Nov. 23, 2019, at the National Catholic Youth read the Scripture daily. “Prepare Conference in Indianapolis. your hearts. ... Pray every day with all your hearts. Pray for one another, “Viva!” cried 20,000 Catholic youths, chaperones, volun- the archbishop said. pray for us, pray for the Church.” teers, youth ministers and seminarians, priests and bish- “Christ and his young church are indeed alive!” he Archbishop Thompson also called for the youths to ops. exclaimed, noting that at NCYC “grace has flowed abun- pray for their bishops, and also for the Archdiocese of It was the call of a shepherd during the closing Mass of dantly in various ways, and hopefully we will all leave here Indianapolis as it prepares for the next biennial confer- the National Catholic Youth Conference Nov. 23 in richer for the time spent in relation to God and one anoth- ence. Indianapolis. And it was the response of the faithful which er.” “Dear young people, brothers and sisters in Christ, included 166 youth pilgrims and 71 adult chaperones from He encouraged the youths to “remain Christ-centered ... your witness of being blessed, broken and given is essen- the Diocese of Covington — as well as several hundred and trust in the grace of the Holy Spirit that has signed, tial to the Church, the mission of the Lord,” he said. “Now priests and six bishops concelebrating the Mass on the sealed and claimed you as a beloved child of God. No you can applaud yourselves.” Solemnity of Christ, King of the Universe, the feast ending power in the world can take that from you.” The shouting that ensued lasted several minutes. the 2019 liturgical year. “You have been called to holiness and mission, claiming Archbishop Thompson slowly turned his head, taking in In his homily, Archbishop Thompson explained that your place in the Church, claiming your place in the king- the mass of young people cheering and clapping in the sta- “Viva Christo Rey,” meaning “long live Christ the King,” dom of God.” dium. A joyful grin spread across his face and shined became the cry of the Cristero movement fighting for reli- He added, “Until next NCYC or we meet in paradise, through his eyes. The grin turned into a laugh, making the gious freedom in Mexico in the 1920s when the Mexican may each of us exude the joy of the Gospel proclaiming, 20,000 youths cheer louder. government severely restricted the activities of the ‘Viva Cristo Rey! Viva Cristo Rey! Viva Cristo Rey!’” “You’ve been great, but it’s past my bedtime,” he finally Catholic Church in the country. This year’s NCYC emcees, Father Agustino Torres, a said, still smiling. “We look forward to seeing you at NCYC During the war, the archbishop explained that Jose Franciscan Friar of the Renewal, and Katie Prejean in 2021, back home again here in Indiana.” Luis Sanchez del Rio “refused to denounce Jesus Christ as McGrady, a popular speaker and author, introduced the With that he said the final blessing, sending the youths King, even to the point of death. Just before being shot, he emcees for NCYC 2021 before the final blessing at Mass. out on their call “to holiness and mission.” is said to have shouted out ‘Viva Cristo Rey!’” Raucous cheers rang out as they called out the names of Jose Luis Sanchez del Rio was just 14 years old. “(He) was canonized a saint by Pope Francis in 2016,” Archbishop Thompson told the youths. “Yes, he was one of you.” The leader of the Catholic Church in central and south- ern Indiana expounded on the topic of king to the youths on this special feast day. “The idea of a king tends to conjure up notions of power, royalty, prestige, wealth, crowns, thrones, castles, servants and privilege,” he said. But “no such notions” are associated with Christ, King of the Universe, he noted. 14 December 6, 2019 Messenger ENTERTAINMENT

“Charlie’s Angels” (Columbia) This third film iteration into the wilderness beyond her realm and holding out to her unscriptural nature mythos may also be confusing for of the iconic 1976-81 television series turns out to be, overall, the prospect of discovering the origins of her supernatural impressionable moviegoers. As for adults, at least some may a charmer, an old-fashioned popcorn movie overstuffed with gift, she responds by embarking on a quest. She’s accompa- find the script’s exaltation of the life of indigenous people preposterous action nied by her strictly human younger sister, the iceman who over industrialized societies heavy-handed. These flaws are sequences, exotic would like to make the junior sibling his own and a merry ultimately outweighed, though, by sympathetic characters, Movie locales and good sentient snowman. Screenwriter and co-director Jennifer Lee visual flair and skillful, if sometimes overly complicated, sto- humor. A secret organ- and her partner at the helm, Chris Buck, the creators of the rytelling. Stylized combat, considerable peril. CNS: A-II; Capsule ization recruits women 2013 original, deliver an exuberant animated musical adven- MPAA: PG. from around the world ture stressing teamwork, family solidarity and upright val- to serve as spies, or ues. Too scary for the littlest patrons, the film’s somewhat “21 Bridges” (STX) Harshly violent crime drama that “Angels.” When the outfit’s leader retires, he is succeeded by never explores the many themes it hints at raising. After a a former agent. Two of her operatives join forces with an major drug theft ends with the grisly deaths of eight police engineer whose invention, a sustainable energy source, has officers, a detective who has, for years, tried to avenge the been stolen by her wicked bosses who plan to weaponize it. A For full reviews of each of these films — go to catholic- demise of his father in the line of duty, is among those on the globetrotting game of cat and mouse ensues, with enough trail of two merciless bad guys whose egress from Manhattan news.com and click on “Extras,” then choose “Movies.” twists and double-crosses to keep viewers guessing until the is blocked by the shutting down of the structures of the title. very end (though the message of female empowerment and Catholic News Service (CNS) classifications are: In the pursuit, he has to decide whether his search for justice equality is a bit heavy-handed). One of the Angels is coy • A-I — general patronage; should be tempered with mercy. Director Brian Kirk and about her sexual preference. While the matter is dealt with screenwriters Adam Mervis and Matthew Michael Carnahan obliquely, at least some grown viewers may want to steer • A-II — adults and adolescents; never let this promising structure produce much in the way clear. Frequent but bloodless action sequences, some sexual • A-III — adults; of surprise — or even reflection. Taut pacing, in this case, is innuendo and fleeting references to homosexuality, occasion- • L — limited adult audience; no cover for failed aspirations, while the film’s high body al profane and crude language, an obscene gesture. CNS: A- count and splatter factor as well as its numbing drumbeat of III; MPAA: PG-13. • O — morally offensive. foul dialogue necessitate a restrictive classification. Pervasive gun violence with some gore, relentless rough and crude lan- “Frozen II” (Disney) When a queen endowed with the guage. CNS: L; MPAA: R. magical power to create ice and snow hears a voice calling her

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Unearthed church sites show local ChristiansaspilgrimsinHoly Land Judith Sudilovsky vated by Salah Hussein Al-Houdalieh of The Institute of 2015 in a solemn funeral procession to the Greek Orthodox Catholic News Service Archaeology at the Palestinian Al-Quds University in Church in Ramallah; they were reinterred there. JERUSALEM — Two unearthed Byzantine church Jerusalem, in cooperation with the Greek Orthodox The “Glorious Martyr Church,” as the church in Beit complexes shed light on the tradition of Christian pilgrim- Patriarchate. Shemesh is being called, is among the few churches in age in the Holy Land. Israel discovered with fully intact crypts, Storchan said. The churches, according to Catholic archaeological “The crypt was accessed via parallel staircases: one scholars in Jerusalem, were most likely sites of veneration leading down into the chamber, the other leading back up for local Christians rather than for pilgrims from abroad. into the prayer hall. This enabled large groups of “Most people only think about pilgrims coming from Christian pilgrims to visit the place,” he said. outside, but local pilgrimage was also important in Storchan said the vaulted double stairway indicates the Byzantine times, as it is today,” said Franciscan Father church had once been a major pilgrimage site for early Eugenio Alliata, archaeology professor at the Studium Christians and is similar in construction to that of the Biblicum Franciscanum. “These discoveries are very double staircase at the Church of the Nativity in important (in that they) show that many local people were Bethlehem. visiting these places and venerating these holy places.” Noting the well-preserved state of the church, Jesuit Both of the complexes include two separate church Father Josef Mario Briffa, a lecturer of archaeology at the buildings. Pontifical Biblical Institute in Jerusalem, said it was clear One of the complexes is a well-preserved Byzantine-era that the church had been abandoned by its inhabitants church complex uncovered by the Israel Antiquities rather than ravished or destroyed by outside forces. Authority just outside of Jerusalem near the Israeli city of Storchan noted the systematic storage of liturgical ele- Beit Shemesh. A 10-line inscription, found intact in a floor ments and other items they found in the back of the mosaic in the courtyard, dedicated the church to a “glori- church. ous martyr.” “We see how they thought to close up and try to sepa- Benjamin Storchan, director of the Beit Shemesh exca- rate material in an organized way,” he said. “The last peo- CNS photo/courtesy Israel Antiquities vation on behalf of the Israel Antiquities Authority, said Authority ple here closed the door. It is as if they knew they had to go, although the martyr’s identity is not known, the extraordi- Thousands of young people and closed it and hoped they would be back.” nary splendor of the structure and its inscriptions indi- have participated in the All the entrances were found blocked and sealed with cate the person was an important figure in early excavation of a Byzantine large stones, he said. Christianity and was well-known by early pilgrims of the church complex in Beit Al-Houdalieh has suggested that Khirbet et-Tireh could nascent faith. Shemesh, Israel, over the past three years. be the burial site of St. Stephen, the first deacon and mar- He noted that in Byzantine times, it was customary to A mosaic is displayed after being unearthed by archaeolo- tyr of the church of Jerusalem; however, traditionally it is hold only one Communion ceremony per day in a chapel, gists from the floor of a Byzantine church complex in Beit believed that his tomb was at the Salesian monastery in and he conjectured that having two churches allowed more Shemesh, Israel. Two recently discovered Byzantine Beit Jamal, just outside of Beit Shemesh. pilgrims to receive the Eucharist. church complexes have shed light on the tradition of Father Alliata said it is likely that the churches in Father Alliata said another church dedicated to Christian pilgrimage in the Holy Land. Khirbet et-Tireh were dedicated to St. Stephen. The Zacharias, the father of John the Baptist, was discovered churches were most probably places for local Christians to earlier in Khirbet Midras, also in the Beit Shemesh area, Khirbet et-Tireh was inhabited during the Hellenistic, venerate the saint, he said, without making what was then and is mentioned by sources, including Byzantine-era Roman, Byzantine and early Islamic periods and was later an arduous journey to Jerusalem. Greek church historian Sozomen. used as agricultural land throughout the Ottoman- Father Briffa said that, during the Byzantine period, Unfortunately, he said, that site was vandalized by some Turkish period and down to modern times, said Al- local Christians needed to feel a part of the pilgrimage ultra-Orthodox residents of Beit Shemesh. Houdalieh. routes. “You can find (remains of) churches (all over) Israel,” However, 75 percent of its historic fortified space has He said one of the more important points of the two said Father Alliata. “Especially during the Byzantine time, been destroyed over the past few decades by development excavations is that they are not being conducted by it was rich in settlements and rich in religious places. In construction. Among the surviving architectural struc- Christian archaeologists but by Jewish and Muslim some places there were synagogues and in other places tures are a Byzantine monastery and two Byzantine-era archaeologists. there were more churches.” churches. “This is not just of interest just for Christian archaeol- The other two churches recently uncovered, whose The entire area of the church was once paved with ogists or just Christians. This is the religious heritage of ruins were less well-preserved, are located in Khirbet et- mosaic carpets of richly colored stones. Al-Houdalieh said the Holy Land in a wider sense,” he said. Tireh, west of Ramallah, West Bank, and are being exca- human remains discovered at the site were transported in

Protecting God’s Children for Adults

For all employees and review the Policies and to request a You will also sign up active when your [email protected] VIRTUS Trainings account, contact your volunteers of the and Procedures and background check. for a VIRTUS class background check, unless your computer n Catholic Charities, parish, school or Diocese of Covington fill out the Selection.com is a during the VIRTUS session and program blocks them. Latonia (Mary institution. who in any way Application and secure site; the registration. Acceptance Form are Moser Room) For other difficul- provide a safe Acceptance Forms. background check is Step 3: Attend the posted on your Wednesday, ties, contact Marylu environment for Step 2: Go to posted on your VIRTUS session you account. You will Bulletin Feb.12, 1:30–5 p.m. Steffen at (859) children. account and you receive 12 bulletins www.virtus.org and chose. No children, n December bulletin: Note: If your 392-1500 or Step 1: Meet with click on Registration. receive a copy if you please. per year. You posted Sunday, Training Tab [email protected]. parish/school Follow the prompts request it during the Step 4: Your will receive e-mail Dec. 1; due is missing or you institution leader to to create an account registration process. account becomes notices at Tuesday, Jan. 6. cannot access your 16 December 6, 2019 Messenger

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Pope prays for Albania after earthquake leaves dozens dead Junno Arocho Esteves released a condolence telegram sent by Cardinal Pietro that compassion and brotherhood may grow in the world.” Catholic News Service Parolin, Vatican secretary of state, to Albanian President He also noted the Catholic Church’s presence in the VATICAN CITY — Pope Francis led prayers for the peo- Ilir Meta. Thailand, particularly in its service to the sick and the wit- ple of Albania after the country was struck by a magni- Pope Francis, the message said, “invokes blessings of ness given by the country’s laity, priests, consecrated men tude 6.4 earthquake. strength upon the emergency personnel in their relief and women and bishops. “I would like to send my greetings and my closeness to efforts and entrusts the people of Albania to the loving Pope Francis noted the theme of his subsequent visit to the dear people of Albania who have suffered so much in providence of the Almighty.” Japan, “Protecting every life,” and its significance in a these days,” the pope said Nov. 27 before concluding his In his general audience talk, the pope reflected on his country “that bears the scars of the atomic bombing and is Nov. 20-26 visit to Thailand and Japan which, he said, for the spokesman for the whole world of the fundamental “increased my closeness and affection for these peoples.” right to life and peace.” Recalling his Nov. 20 meeting with the supreme patri- “To protect life, we must love it, and today the most seri- arch of Thailand’s Buddhist community, Somdej Phra ous threat in more developed countries is the loss of the Maha Muneewong, the pope said he was “continuing on sense of living,” the pope said. the path of mutual esteem initiated by my predecessors, so

CNS photo/Vatican Media Pope Francis waves as he arrives for his general audience in St. Peter’s Square at the Vatican Nov. 27, 2019. He led prayers for the people of Albania after the country was struck by a magnitude 6.4 earthquake and spoke to the pilgrims gathered in the square about his Nov. 20-26 visit to Thailand and Japan. weekly general audience. “Albania was the first country in Europe I wanted to visit. I am close to the victims. I pray for the dead, for the wounded, for the families. May the Lord bless this country that I love so much,” he said. The earthquake struck in the early hours of the morn- ing Nov. 26 and was felt as far away as Serbia. According to Albanian news agency, Shqiptarja, authorities said the death toll was at least 26 people and an estimated 650 wounded. First responders worked throughout the day to recover bodies and rescue survivors from crumbled buildings. Rescue workers from neighboring Greece and Italy assist- ed with the efforts. Shortly after the pope’s call for prayers, the Vatican

NOVENA NOVENA TO THE BLESSED VIRGIN. Oh, most beautiful flower of Mt. Carmel, fruitful vine, splendor of Heaven, Blessed Mother of the Son of God, Immaculate Virgin, assist me in my necessity. Oh Star of the Sea, help me and show me here you are my Mother. Oh Holy Mary, Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and Earth. I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart to succor me in my necessity (make your request). There are none that can withstand your power. Oh Mary, Pray for us who have recourse to Thee, (three times). Holy Mary, I place this prayer in your hands. (three times). M.B. 18 December 6, 2019 Messenger

On holy ground: Pope honors martyrs, missioners,bombing victimsinAsia Cindy Wooden After the sun had set at the Hiroshima Peace Catholic News Service Memorial and after the pope had laid a bouquet of VATICAN CITY — At the end of his trip to Thailand white orchids and prayed in silence, he said, “With and Japan, Pope Francis said he found truth in the saying, deep conviction I wish once more to declare that the “Lux ex oriente, ex occidente luxus,” or, as he roughly use of atomic energy for purposes of war is today, translated it, “the light comes from the East, and luxury, more than ever, a crime not only against the dignity consumerism from the West.” of human beings but against any possible future for Not wanting to be too harsh on the West, Pope Francis our common home.” told reporters returning to Rome with him Nov. 26 that he “The use of atomic energy for purposes of war is did sense in the two Asian countries a different concept of immoral, just as the possessing of nuclear weapons time and a greater sensitivity to contemplation than he is immoral,” he continued. “We will be judged on found in the West. this. Future generations will rise to condemn our “I think we Westerners need to slow down a bit,” he failure if we spoke of peace but did not act to bring said. The “culture of hurrying” often means losing the it about among the peoples of the earth.” ability to contemplate and that, in turn, means losing sight On the flight back to Rome, Pope Francis sig- of beauty and poetry. naled that he considered the speech to be a formal

Pope Francis lights a candle as he leads a meeting for peace at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial in Hiroshima, Japan, Nov. 24.

CNS photos/Paul Haring Pope Francis celebrates Mass with young people in Pope Francis visits with Somdej Phra Maha Muneewong, Assumption Cathedral in Bangkok, Thailand, supreme patriarch of Buddhists, at the Wat Ratchabophit Nov. 22. temple in Bangkok Nov. 21.

Pope Francis’ own trip to Japan was delayed by part of church teaching, often called “the magisteri- decades. um.” He said the immorality of the use or possession Several times during his stay Nov. 23-26, he spoke about of nuclear weapons should be added to the Catechism how, as a young Jesuit, he had hoped to be sent as a mis- of the Catholic Church. sionary to Japan. His superiors thought that with his his- In Nagasaki he also decried the horror of what tory of lung problems, he was not healthy enough. happened and pleaded with government leaders to So, he did not make the trip until he was pope, almost 83 get serious once more about arms control and disar- years old and about to celebrate his 50th anniversary as a mament. Pope Francis prays as he visits the Atomic Bomb Hypocenter Jesuit priest. The use of nuclear weapons is not the only threat Park in Nagasaki, Japan, Nov. 24. With his visit to Thailand Nov. 20-23 before going on to the arms pose, he said, pointing to the billions of dol- Japan, Pope Francis flew more than 16,000 miles and gave lars spent each year on maintaining nuclear stockpiles “missionary disciples,” he made it clear that he was not close to 20 speeches. He celebrated a small Mass with his and developing new weapons when millions of people are talking about preaching on street corners or passing out Jesuit confreres in Japan and Masses with tens of thou- starving and dying in poverty. pamphlets. sands of people in stadiums in Bangkok and Tokyo. He met But Nagasaki also was the site of the martyrdom of St. Missionary disciples are experts at dialogue and wit- the Thai king and the Japanese emperor and used as his Paul Miki and 25 others in 1597, the first of hundreds of ness — both done with immense respect for the other’s reli- official translators a nun who was his cousin and a Jesuit Christians persecuted for their faith over the course of gion and culture, he said repeatedly throughout the trip. who was a former student. close to 200 years. The pope told people gathered at the mar- In Thailand to celebrate the 350th anniversary of the The formal and the personal came together in a special tyrs’ memorial that the story of St. Miki and other Jesuit Apostolic Vicariate of Siam Mission, Pope Francis said the way Nov. 24 when he visited Nagasaki and Hiroshima, the missionaries sparked his youthful dreams. first missionaries to the country discovered that they were two cities destroyed by the U.S. atomic bombings in August Care for one another and care for the environment were not among strangers, but among brothers and sisters they 1945. recurring themes in both Thailand and Japan, where the hadn’t realized they had. In Hiroshima, the pope heard the testimonies of an eld- Catholic communities make up less than 1 percent of the “A missionary disciple is not a mercenary of the faith erly woman and an elderly man who were teenagers when populations, but where they exercise significant influence, or a producer of proselytes, but rather a humble mendi- the bombs fell. On the flight back to Rome, he told especially in the field of education. cant who feels the absence of brothers, sisters and mothers reporters that it was “a real human catechesis on cruelty, While Pope Francis described himself as a “missionary with whom to share the irrevocable gift of reconciliation cruelty.” pilgrim” and encouraged Catholics in both countries to be that Jesus grants to all,” the pope said. Messenger December 6, 2019 19 NEWS BRIEFS

National/World three Central American nations earlier this year. The agreements issued to voters Nov. 19. Their statements came as the Labour require migrants traveling to the U.S. to apply for protections in Party and the Liberal Democrats, in their pre-election mani- one of the three countries they pass through first. The agreements festoes, promised to reform abortion laws. The ruling Pope advances sainthood causes of require migrants traveling to the U.S. to apply for protections in Conservative Party was silent about abortion in its election mani- one of the three countries they pass through first. festo. Canadian missionary, Polish martyr VATICAN CITY — Pope Francis advanced the sainthood cause Pro-life leaders say amendment would Pope names Italian finance inspector of Bishop Ovide Charlebois — a Canadian Missionary Oblate of Mary Immaculate who ministered to First Nations peoples and ‘enrich’ abortion providers overseas as head of Vatican financial agency migrant workers scattered throughout the vast, lake-covered WASHINGTON — Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann of Kansas VATICAN CITY — Pope Francis appointed a seasoned Italian province of Manitoba. The pope recognized the Quebec native, City, Kansas, chairman of the U.S. bishops’ Committee for Pro-Life finance inspector to lead the Vatican’s financial watchdog agency who lived from 1862 to 1933, as having lived the Christian virtues Activities, and 17 other pro-life leaders have called on President following the resignation of its president. The Vatican said in a in a heroic way. The pope also recognized the martyrdom of Donald Trump to block an amendment they say would “enrich statement Nov. 27 that the pope named Carmelo Barbagallo as the Father Jan Franciszek Macha, a Polish priest who began his global abortion providers,” which currently is part of a Senate new head of the Financial Intelligence Authority, known by the parish ministry when the Nazis invaded Poland and was impris- appropriations measure. They were referring to an amendment in Italian acronym AIF. In an interview with Vatican News published oned and murdered by its elite force, the SS, despite his mother’s the Senate?s State, Foreign Operations and Related Programs shortly after the announcement, Barbagallo said he was honored efforts to secure a pardon from Adolf Hitler. The pope also formal- appropriations bill. Spearheaded by Sen. Jeanne Shaheen, D-New by the appointment and “aware of the full weight of the moral ly recognized the martyrdom of 16 victims of the Spanish Civil Hampshire, the amendment “ has several problematic provisions,” and professional responsibility it carries.” “In carrying out my War and advanced the causes of eight other men and women. the pro-life leaders said in a Nov. 21 letter to Trump, saying it service of responsibility in leading the AIF, I will work to bring all During a meeting Nov. 28 with Cardinal Angelo Becciu, prefect of “must be removed” before final passage of the bill. The amend- my experience accumulated in 40 years working at the Bank of the Congregation for Saints’ Causes, the pope signed the decree ment “increases a highly controversial earmark for international Italy, as an inspector, as head of vigilance of the Italian banking approving the heroic virtues of Bishop Charlebois, making him family planning by $57.55 million above current law, from $575 mil- and financial sector and in the context of the supervision of the “venerable.” Before he can be beatified, the Vatican must recog- lion to $632.55 million,” said the coalition of pro-life leaders. In fis- European banking system,” he said. He also emphasized AIF’s nize that a miracle has occurred through his intercession. cal year 2018, they noted, the U.S. provided nearly $280 million in important role in upholding the “fundamental values of fairness foreign aid to groups involved in abortion activities overseas. and transparency of all financial movements.” New asylum rules ignore plight of Archbishop Naumann and the other pro-life leaders said the Shaheen amendment, passed in early September, also “under- Most Americans support life in prison Central Americans mines” the U.S. Agency for International Development’s New WASHINGTON — Two Catholic leaders expressed concerned Partnership Initiative “by adding new reporting requirements over death penalty, says new poll with the federal government’s plan to send Central Americans that are intended to effectively ‘name and shame’ faith or commu- WASHINGTON — Most Americans support life imprisonment who want asylum in the U.S. to Guatemala, Honduras and El nity-based partners, particularly pro-life and pro-family partners.” over the death penalty, according to a Gallup poll released Nov. 24, Salvador where they would have apply for U.S. asylum while in revealing a shift in the majority opinion on this issue for the first one of those countries. Auxiliary Bishop Mario E. Dorsonville of British bishops urge voters to ques- time in 34 years.The poll, based on results from telephone inter- Washington and Sean Callahan, president and CEO of Catholic views conducted October 14-31 with a random sample of 1,526 Relief Services, said in a Nov. 25 statement the plan “undermines tion candidates on life issues adults in the U.S., showed 60% prefer that convicted murders U.S. moral leadership in protecting vulnerable populations and MANCHESTER, England — British bishops have made the receive a sentence of life imprisonment while 36% said capital risks further destabilizing the region.” They called on the govern- right to life a priority for Catholics ahead of a general election in punishment would be better. This view marks a shift in ment to “preserve and uphold the sacredness and dignity of all which two major political parties have promised to liberalize abor- Americans’ opinion over the past two decades. In the 1980s and human life” by not turning away from people who are facing a tion laws. A statement from the bishops of England and Wales, 1990s, the majority opinion leaned toward the death penalty. The variety of threats in the region and are “in desperate need of released Nov. 29, put the right to life at the top of a list of key survey is also just the second time more people said they thought help.” Their reaction comes to two notices published in the issues they want Catholic voters to raise with parliamentary can- life in prison was a better punishment than the death penalty Federal Register Nov. 18 announcing the government’s intention didates ahead of the Dec. 12 election. The bishops of Scotland also which they did by 1 percentage point in 2007 — 48% favoring life to implement asylum cooperative agreements reached with the made abortion and euthanasia their primary concerns in a letter in prison to 47% favoring the death penalty. 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