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CriterionOnline.com December 23, 2016 Vol. LVII, No. 12 75¢ A fromChristmas Cardinal Joseph W.message Tobin

My dear brothers and sisters in Christ,

After all the carols have been sung, after all the sitcoms have blared banalities or irreverent Yuletide yowls, after we stumble the final steps towards the 25th of December, an angel still whispers a name: “Emmanuel, God-with-us” (Mt 1:23). After an autumn of anxiety and bitter partisanship, when many people feel forgotten or unwelcomed, the Word assures us that “the grace of God has appeared, saving all …” (Ti 2:11). After four years of sharing love, encouragement, laughter, tears, triumphs and defeats, after all the goodbyes have pierced our hearts and obliged us to begin again, we must exult, since “from his fullness we have all received, grace in place of grace, because … grace and truth came through Jesus Christ” (Jn 1:17-18). After all is said and done, we remain in Christ Jesus, who is Emmanuel and grace and truth, and we will continue to recognize Him— and each other—in the breaking of the bread. Rejoice in the Lord!

Merry Christmas!

Cardinal Joseph W. Tobin, C.Ss.R.

P.S. Thank you everyone for your kind messages, e-mails and cards. I’ve read all of them, but in this busy time of transition I’m afraid I can’t respond to each of them individually. I will take your kindness with me.

Mary and the Christ Child are depicted in this 17th-century painting by Giovanni Battista Salvi. The feast of the Nativity of Christ, a holy day of obligation, is celebrated on Dec. 25. (CNS/Bridgeman Images) Mensaje de Navidad del Cardenal Joseph W. Tobin

Queridos hermanos y hermanas en Cristo: Y al final, después de que todo ha pasado, seguimos habitando en Jesucristo, el Emmanuel de la gracia y la Después de que se hayan entonado todos los villancicos, verdad, y seguimos reconociéndolo a Él —y a nosotros después de que todos los programas televisivos hayan mismos— al partir el pan. pregonado banalidades o irreverentes aullidos navideños, ¡Alégrense en el Señor! después de dar los últimos pasos que nos acercan al 25 de diciembre, hay un ángel que sigue susurrando un nombre: ¡Feliz Navidad! “Emmanuel: Dios con nosotros” (Mt 1:23). Después de un otoño plagado de ansiedad y amarga división política, cuando mucha gente se sentía olvidada o rechazada, la Palabra nos asegura que “la gracia de Dios se ha manifestado, trayendo salvación a todos los hombres” (Ti 2:11). Y después de cuatro años de compartir amor, palabras de Cardenal Joseph W. Tobin, C.Ss.R. ánimo, risas, lágrimas, triunfos y derrotas, después de todos los adioses que nos han desgarrado el corazón y nos han obligado P.D.: Gracias a todos por sus amables mensajes, correos a empezar otra vez, debemos regocijarnos ya que “de su electrónicos y tarjetas. Los he leído todos pero, durante esta plenitud todos hemos recibido, y gracia sobre gracia, porque época tan ajetreada de transición, me temo que no podré [...] la gracia y la verdad fueron hechas realidad por medio de responder a cada uno de ellos. Me llevo su generosidad en Jesucristo” (Jn 1:17-18). el corazón. Page 2 The Criterion Friday, December 23, 2016 Office of Intercultural Ministry celebrates 20 years of creating ‘richer experience for everybody’ in local Church

By Natalie Hoefer is for the archdiocese to have a conduit to what’s going on nationally. We Cardinal Joseph W. Tobin has are representatives on the national mentioned frequently in the last month level through the office. … So we that the Archdiocese of Newark, N.J., can take what’s happening here to where he will soon be installed has Mass the national groups, and whatever is celebrated in 22 languages each weekend. happening nationally gets back into the It’s a large number, yes. But it might archdiocese.” be a surprise to some that across central In time, a ministry was developed for and southern Indiana, Mass is celebrated the Vietnamese Catholic community, in as many five languages. which worships at St. Joseph Church That opportunity is just one of in Indianapolis. They would later be the many accomplishments of the combined with ministries for Burmese, archdiocesan Office of Intercultural Filipino and Korean Catholics under the Ministry, which celebrated 20 years of archdiocesan Asian/Pacific Islanders service this year. Ministry. The story begins in 1994. A volunteer The milestones over the last two group called Archdiocesan Black decades are many, says Father Taylor. Catholics Concerned existed, as did One was the creation of a special Mass a Hispanic apostolate operated out of to celebrate the Vietnamese Tet, or lunar During the inaugural archdiocesan Intercultural Ministry Awards Dinner on Nov. 15, 2014, the members St. Mary Parish in Indianapolis. But there New Year. of the Committee of Intercultural Ministry Coordinators at that time gather for a photo. They are was no official archdiocesan ministry for “One of the first times they did it, Franciscan Brother Moises Gutierrez, former Intercultural Ministry director, left; Myanmar/Burmese Catholics of ethnic backgrounds. they invited Archbishop Daniel and Ministry coordinator Rita Si Si Lwin; Divine Word Missionaries Father Sam Cunningham, former Hispanic Ministry coordinator; Franciscan Sister Jeannette Pruitt, former Black Catholic Ministry coordinator; But when St. Bridget Parish in pulled out all the stops,” recalls Father former French-speaking Ministry coordinator Dabrice Bartet; former Philippine Ministry coordinator Indianapolis—one of three predominantly Taylor. “He said to me, ‘Celebrating Marlon Alfonso; and Vietnamese Ministry coordinator Father Minh Duong. (Photo by Natalie Hoefer) black parishes in the city—was closed, Vietnamese New Year in Indianapolis—I then-Archbishop Daniel M. Buechlein never would have figured that would In 2012, Father Taylor led the ministry tapped Father Kenneth Taylor, then-pastor happen!’ ” in a major effort to host the National of St. Bridget and Holy Trinity parishes, to Another milestone was the institution Black Catholic Congress. Then during start an archdiocesan multicultural ministry. of a Mass to celebrate the Filipino 2013, plans were underway to host the “I think Archbishop Daniel wanted to tradition known as Simbang Gabi, a National Association of African Catholics, figure out a way to be sure that the various nine‑day spiritual celebration leading up another great accomplishment for the ethnic communities were still ministered to Christmas. ministry. to by the archdiocese,” says Father Taylor, In 2004, the first annual Mass By that time, Father Taylor had been now pastor of St. Rita and Holy Angels celebrating the feast of St. Martin de heading the ministry for 14 years in a parishes, both in Indianapolis. Porres on Nov. 3 was held. The saint part-time capacity while still serving as In January of 1996, Archbishop shared Hispanic and black heritage. pastor and administrator of one to two Buechlein commissioned the “The idea was to bring particularly parishes. archdiocese’s first Multicultural Ministry the African-American and Hispanic It was a lot to take on, he admits. Office, with Father Taylor as director. communities together around St. Martin “From the day [Archbishop Joseph W. The office focused on addressing de Porres for common worship,” says Tobin] landed in the archdiocese” in 2012, Father Kenneth Taylor, former director of the the spiritual needs of the Hispanic and Father Taylor. “It was a time when there the priest recalls, “he said, ‘I see this as then-named archdiocesan Multicultural Office, black Catholic communities, whose was a lot of tension in Indianapolis a very important part of the archdiocese.’ celebrates the annual St. Martin de Porres Mass needs varied in certain ways from Anglo between the African-American and And he wanted [the director] to be full at St. Monica Church in Indianapolis on Nov. 3, 2013. (Photos by Natalie Hoefer) Catholics based on cultural backgrounds Hispanic communities. … time.” and customs. “Over the years, I found out that other In August of 2013, Franciscan Brother and started an annual Intercultural “Elsewhere in the country what was communities revere [St.] Martin de Porres Moises Gutierrez, then-Hispanic Ministry Ministry Awards Dinner. happening was the office of Hispanic as well, so other communities are now coordinator, took on the role as full-time Also during his tenure, Archbishop Ministry and the office of Black Catholic involved.” director of what was later renamed the Tobin approved a request from the Ministry—and if they had any Asian Maria Pimentel-Gannon of St. Monica Intercultural Ministry. Communauté Catholique Francophone offices—were all being combined,” recalls Parish in Indianapolis has been involved Many new projects were undertaken d’Indiana—predominantly consisting Father Taylor. “People were feeling that with the archdiocesan office since its during Brother Moises’ leadership of French-speaking African Catholic things were being taken away. inception, and has served several terms from 2013-15. He began a leadership immigrants—to have a Mass celebrated “But here it was different because we as president of the ministry’s board. She certification program to grow pastoral monthly in French. never had [either ministry], so it was like helped start the annual St. Martin de leaders in the Asian/Pacific Islanders, Brother Moises stepped down in a step forward for us.” Porres Mass. Black and Hispanic communities—the December of 2015 to pursue a doctoral According to Father Taylor, the Office “I think it has brought us closer as first of its kind in the United States; degree in leadership philosophy at of Multicultural Ministry, which in an archdiocese,” she says of the Mass. started the Intercultural Pastoral Gonzaga University in Spokane, Wash. 2014 became the Office of Intercultural “I think it has helped us to realize the Institute at the former St. Bernadette Just last month, former Hispanic Ministry, serves two primary purposes. richness we have in our archdiocese in School in Indianapolis to house Ministry coordinator Oscar Castellanos “One is to develop ministries to the different cultures, to see that we are the leadership classes and for other took on the role as director of Intercultural the various ethnic groups within the very intercultural, and to see that as a intercultural use; developed a program Ministry. (See article on page 15.) If he archdiocese,” he explains. “The other good thing, an asset.” to certify Hispanic spiritual directors; See INTERCULTURAL, page 15

The Criterion and Catholic Center are closed Official Appointment from Dec. 23 to Jan. 2 for Christmas holiday Effective immediately This week’s issue of The Criterion, The Archbishop O’Meara Catholic which is our annual Christmas Center will be closed from Dec. 23 Rev. David Bu Nyar of the Diocese of Asian Ministries in the archdiocesan publication, is the last issue of 2016. through Jan. 2 in observance of the of Loikaw, Myanmar, appointed associate Office of Intercultural Ministry. The Criterion will be published again holidays. pastor of St. Pius X and St. Mark on Jan. 13, 2017, and resume its weekly Archdiocesan agencies will reopen at parishes, both in Indianapolis, with (These appointments are from the office of schedule. 8 a.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 3, 2017. † particular ministry to the Burmese Joseph William Cardinal Tobin, C.Ss.R., community, and part-time coordinator Archdiocesan Administrator.) †

The Criterion NEWS FROM YOU! (ISSN 0574-4350) is Do you have something exciting published weekly except The or newsworthy you want to be considered to be printed in the last week of December and the first week of The 12/23/16 Phone Numbers: The Criterion? January. Main office:...... 317-236-1570 E-mail us: Moving? Advertising...... 317-236-1454 [email protected] 1400 N. Meri­dian St. We’ll be there waiting if you give us two weeks’ Toll free:...... 1-800-382-9836, ext. 1570 Indianapolis, IN 46202-2367 advance notice! Circulation:...... 317-236-1454 Staff: 317-236-1570 Toll free:...... 1-800-382-9836, ext. 1454 Editor: Mike Krokos 800-382-9836 ext. 1570 Assistant Editor: John Shaughnessy Name______Price: $22.00 per year, 75 cents per copy [email protected] Reporter: Sean Gallagher E-mail______Postmaster: Reporter: Natalie Hoefer Periodical postage paid at New Address______Send address changes to The Criterion, Online Editor/Graphic Designer: Brandon A. Evans Indianapolis, IN. 1400 N. Meri­dian St., Indianapolis, IN 46202-2367 Business Manager: Ron Massey Copyright © 2016 City______Executive Assistant: Cindy Clark Criterion Press Inc. State/Zip______Web site : www.CriterionOnline.com Graphic Designer: Jane Lee E-mail: [email protected] Print Service Assistant: Annette Danielson POSTMASTER: New Parish______Send address changes to: Effective Date______Published weekly except the last week of December and the first week of January. Mailing Criterion Press Inc. Note: If you are receiving duplicate copies please send both labels. address: 1400 N. Meri­dian St., Indianapolis, IN 46202-2367. Periodical postage paid at 1400 N. Meridian St. ­Indianapolis, IN. Copyright © 2016 Criterion Press Inc. ISSN 0574-4350. Indianapolis, IN 46202-2367 The Criterion • 1400 N. Meridian St. • Indianapolis, IN 46202-2367 The Criterion Friday, December 23, 2016 Page 3 Archbishop Tobin becoming a cardinal tops local news stories By Brandon A. Evans mercy and have been strengthened as ambassadors of reconciliation. Since we The naming of Archbishop Joseph W. recognize that God has torn down each Tobin as a cardinal—and his subsequent and every barrier that could really divide appointment to lead the Archdiocese of us, we have deepened our commitment to Newark, N.J.—was voted the top local build bridges, not walls.” news story of 2016, followed by the “Pope Francis described the heart of ordination of six new priests and the the priest as a heart pierced by the love archdiocesan celebration of the Holy Year of the Lord,” Archbishop Tobin said. “For of Mercy. this reason, he no longer looks to himself Other stories of note included the or should look to himself, but is instead archdiocese’s new partnership with turned toward God and his brothers and Notre Dame ACE Academies, the 50th sisters.” anniversary of the Indiana Catholic “A priest,” he said, noting the Conference (ICC), decisions from the preaching of the pope, “is changed by the Connected in the Spirit parish planning mercy that he gives.” process, and the election of a new archabbot at Saint Meinrad Archabbey. 3. Catholics across central and southern Following the tradition of other news Indiana join to celebrate the Holy Year agencies, The Criterion editorial staff of Mercy. votes each year for the top 10 local stories Pope Francis declared an Extraordinary that were published in our newspaper. Jubilee Year dedicated to mercy that Many of the top stories selected this began on Dec. 8, 2015, and ended on year were covered in multiple articles. Nov. 20, 2016. Cardinal Joseph W. Tobin embraces Pope Francis after the consistory that made him a cardinal Read this article online to browse the During that year, individual parishes, on Nov. 19 in St. Peter’s Basilica at the Vatican. (Photo courtesy L’Osservatore Romano) links to all the original coverage. schools and agencies worked to put mercy Among the hundreds of locally in action; special times were set aside for “The Church was beginning to see Anglican priest with a wife of 24 years produced news stories during 2016, here confessions during Lent; and the Holy its role in how it impacts the culture,” and seven children. is our “Top 10” list: Doors at the cathedral and the Archabbey said Glenn Tebbe, the fifth and current Though serving in the archdiocese at Church of Our Lady of Einsiedeln in St. executive director of the ICC, in an Oct. 21 Holy Rosary Parish in Indianapolis, he 1. Archbishop Joseph W. Tobin is Meinrad were opened. story. “The goal then was the same as it is does so as a member of the Houston- named a cardinal of the Catholic The culmination of the year for the today—to reflect on Church teaching and based Personal Ordinariate of the Chair of Church. archdiocese came on Oct. 8, during a offer its wisdom for people to consider in a St. Peter, which was established in 2012 In an announcement that was a special Marian Jubilee at St. Bartholomew way that will benefit society.” by Pope Benedict XVI. The ordinariate surprise even to him, Archbishop Tobin Church in Columbus. The ICC has been the voice of public functions like a diocese for former was named one of the world’s newest Eight hundred people from around the policy for the Church in Indiana on issues Anglicans and Episcopalians in the United cardinals on Oct. 9. archdiocese attended the event, which that range from the poor and immigration States and Canada. The honor, described as a “shock,” was featured recitation of the rosary, a Marian to abortion and school choice. As reported, “in full communion with unexpected and became an instant source procession, a reflection from then- “My job is to make sure the Catholic the Church, the ordinariate is able to of celebration for Catholics in central and Archbishop Tobin and two presentations perspective is part of the discussion,” maintain its Anglican spiritual heritage in southern Indiana. In a press conference by best-selling Catholic author and Tebbe said. “I try to be the voice of its worship—and in having married men the next day, the cardinal-designate speaker Dr. Scott Hahn. our five bishops, and also to enable the ordained as priests.” shared his thoughts with employees of the “God’s mercy is what happens when Catholic faithful and all people of good “I’m really excited about it,” Archbishop Edward T. O’Meara Catholic you coordinate all of his attributes,” Hahn will to help shape public policy for the said Father Reese shortly before his Center in Indianapolis and local news said. “His power, which is unlimited. best interests of the common good.” ordination. “I look forward to the media, which included his apprehension His knowledge, which is infinite. His adventure of it all.” of any spotlight the new title would bring. goodness and his love. 6. Archbishop Tobin announces changes A second shock came less than two “When you coordinate all of those for three deaneries; two parishes to be 9. Former archdiocesan priest, Bishop weeks before the consistory in Rome that attributes, you discover that mercy is merged. Paul Etienne, is named Archbishop of would make his new title official: Pope God’s all powerful love in action.” Speaking on Feb. 4 at St. Bartholomew Anchorage. Francis was moving Archbishop Tobin to Church in Columbus before Catholics Having served since 2009 as the lead the Archdiocese of Newark, N.J. 4. Archdiocese announces new from across central and southern Indiana, Bishop of Cheyenne, Wyo., Bishop Paul The joy of the previous weeks became partnership with Notre Dame ACE Archbishop Joseph W. Tobin announced Etienne was named by Pope Francis on bittersweet, as the cardinal-designate Academies. decisions that will affect 31 parishes Oct. 4 to be the Archbishop of Anchorage, wrote of sleepless nights and tears. The growing relationship between in the Bloomington, Connersville and Alaska. Thinking of his years here, Archbishop the Archdiocese of Indianapolis and the Seymour deaneries. Addressing his new flock, the Tobin wrote, “I remembered how you University of Notre Dame deepened “As a result of the decisions, two former priest of the Archdiocese of welcomed me, offered your support in on March 29 when it was announced parishes will be merged into neighboring Indianapolis said, “Our Holy Father, so many ways, forgave my mistakes and that five center-city Catholic schools faith communities.” Pope Francis, really means it when he limitations and always assured me of in Indianapolis will become part of the The changes were part of a 15-month says that he wants bishops to travel your love and the precious backing of University of Notre Dame’s Alliance for consultation with pastoral leaders and to the peripheries to bring the Good your prayer. The thought of leaving you Catholic Education (ACE) Academies lay representatives, and part of a larger, News of Jesus Christ and God’s love to devastated me.” network starting in the 2016-17 school years-long parish planning process called strangers. With today’s appointment, he Nevertheless, many lay faithful and year. Connected in the Spirit. is sending me among you, in the name priests from central and southern Indiana The five schools—Central Catholic, Archbishop Tobin said the process of Jesus Christ, as your new archbishop, traveled to Rome to be with Cardinal Holy Angels, Holy Cross Central, St. is “an effort to discern where God is to be your servant and shepherd. I Tobin as he officially joined the College Anthony and St. Philip Neri—joined the leading the Catholic Church in central humbly accept this commission, with of Cardinals; many more followed the growing network of Catholic schools that and southern Indiana, and determine how great gratitude to Pope Francis.” events online. operate through ACE. the Archdiocese of Indianapolis should Archbishop Etienne was installed A local celebration—which was also Archbishop Joseph W. Tobin praised change its structures in order to carry out on Nov. 9 at Our Lady of Guadalupe a farewell—was held on Dec. 3 at SS. this latest partnership connecting the its mission today and in the future.” Co-Cathedral in Anchorage. Peter and Paul Cathedral, during which archdiocese and Notre Dame. Cardinal Tobin recalled his time here. “The Archdiocese of Indianapolis has 7. Saint Meinrad Archabbey gets a new 10. The longest-serving priest in the Quoting Scripture, he said, “ ‘With long been a leader in finding innovative archabbot. history of the archdiocese dies at 101. such affection for you, we were ways to serve the educational and spiritual In January, Benedictine Archabbot Father Hilary Meny, the longest serving determined to share with you not only needs of children from some of the Justin DuVall announced that he was priest in the history of the Archdiocese of the Gospel of God, but our very selves as lowest income areas in Indianapolis,” said resigning as abbot of the monastic Indianapolis, died on Oct. 7 at his home well, so beloved have you become to us’ ” Archbishop Tobin. community, effective on June 2. in Haubstadt, Ind., where he had been (1 Thes 2:8). “Partnering with the Notre Dame That day, an election was held that saw cared for by his extended family for many All our coverage of Cardinal Tobin’s ACE Academies will strengthen these Benedictine Father Kurt Stasiak named years. He was 101, and had been a priest appointment can be found at five schools by providing students even the 10th abbot in the 162-year history of for 76 years. www.archindy.org/archbishop. more resources and opportunities. I’m the community. Cardinal Tobin praised the life of the committed to seeing that these children Speaking of his brother monks, the priest: “Father Hilary leaves a precious 2. Six men are ordained priests for the have the same chance I had to grow up new archabbot said, “They’re looking at testimony of faithfulness. Though he archdiocese. in a community of faith and to receive an me as their abbot. Not that I’m better, but retired decades ago, he retained a priestly It is normal that a couple of men are excellent Catholic education.” more is being asked of me now. They’re heart and a keen interest in the parishes ordained to the priesthood each May expecting more. That’s a humbling thing where he served. The archdiocese is or June. But this year, six men—one 5. Indiana Catholic Conference and certainly a privileged feeling.” grateful for his witness, and thanks his of the largest classes in recent times— celebrates 50 years of advocacy. The resignation and election occurred wonderful family for the tender, faith- were ordained as new priests for the In October of 1966, a small group of almost exactly 50 years after the filled care they lavished on Father over archdiocese. dedicated Catholics met in Indianapolis resignation of still-living Archabbot the last years.” During a Mass on June 25 at the to do what their counterparts in only a Bonaventure Knaebel, who guided the A Mass of Christian Burial was cathedral, Fathers James Brockmeier, handful of states had accomplished—to monastery through the years of the celebrated on Oct. 12 at SS. Peter and Anthony Hollowell, Douglas Hunter, formalize a way for the Catholic Church Second Vatican Council. Paul Church in Haubstadt, Ind., in the Kyle Rodden, Matthew Tucci and Nicolás to speak on both state and national issues. Diocese of Evansville. Ajpacajá Tzoc all took their first steps in That was the genesis of the Indiana 8. Former Anglican priest makes a new life as priests. Catholic Conference [ICC], which this history as first married priest in (To read the original coverage, including Noting the Holy Year of Mercy, fall marked the 50th anniversary of its archdiocese. additional links of interest, click on the Archbishop Tobin spoke to them: establishment as the public policy voice Ordained a priest on June 29, headline for this story on our website at “We have turned to God, begging for of the Catholic Church in Indiana. Father Luke Reese was a former www.CriterionOnline.com.) † Page 4 The Criterion Friday, December 23, 2016

Opinion The Human Side/Father Eugene Hemrick A new year of hope Some have suggested with the closing in particular contain the hope we desire: of the Holy Year of Mercy, 2017 should wisdom and fear of the Lord. Rev. Msgr. Raymond T. Bosler, Founding Editor, 1915 - 1994 be a Year of Hope. Wisdom promotes good judgment, i.e., Most Rev. Joseph W. Tobin, C.Ss.R., Publisher Mike Krokos, Editor Weary, disillusioned desiring truth and pursuing it to the best Greg A. Otolski, Associate Publisher John F. Fink, Editor Emeritus and depressed describe of our ability. More important, it includes best the feelings of enlisting God’s wisdom in seeking truth. many people I know. It is said that each time St. Thomas The cause is not only Aquinas composed a part of his our political malaise, magnificent work, the Summa Theologica, Editorial but a world of violence he raised it to God, seeking God’s wisdom and contradictions. in his pursuit of truth. To succeed, truth Add to this needs humility and its gift of docility. the fact that we Unfortunately, the crowd’s voice often have entered a pharmaceutical age in crowds out God’s voice. which commercials constantly remind What is particularly disillusioning us of illnesses we might contract and presently is bashing truth. Worse than medicines to counter them; that is, if you this, is the spirit in which it is done: don’t get reactions more detrimental than vicious and godless. No wonder many are the promised cure. depressed. The human spirit depends on Where do we find hope that counters a trustworthiness: Marriages, governments seemingly hopeless 2017? and churches can’t succeed without it. The first reading of the Mass from the When it is missing, failure follows. second Sunday of Advent contained our Fear of the Lord doesn’t imply being answer. In it, Isaiah cries out, “On that frightened. Rather, it is being in awe day, a shoot shall sprout from the stump of God and God’s wonders. It reminds of Jesse, and from his roots a bud shall those fulfilling heavy responsibilities blossom. The spirit of the Lord shall that they aren’t working for their own rest upon him: a spirit of wisdom and of aggrandizement, but they are carrying understanding, a spirit of counsel and of out God’s work on Earth, pointing them strength, a spirit of knowledge and of fear heavenward and away from self. A boy holds his Nativity scene as Pope Francis leads the Angelus from the window of his apartment overlooking St. Peter’s Square at the Vatican on Dec. 11. of the Lord, and his delight shall be the Living the Spirit of the Lord is 2017’s In an annual tradition, Roman children brought their figurines of the baby Jesus fear of the Lord” (Is 11:1-3a). best shot at a hope-filled year. to the Angelus. (CNS photo/Paul Haring) It is from the line of Jesse, the father of David, that Christ comes, possessing the (Father Eugene Hemrick writes for gifts of the Holy Spirit. Two of those gifts Catholic News Service.) † The awesomeness of Letter to the Editor Christmas each year Catholic War Veterans looking to Aren’t you awed by the feast we and Eve, humans had been shut out of celebrate on Christmas? heaven. We had to be reconciled to God, increase presence across Indiana Think about it: Almighty God and it was God himself who determined I am a U.S. veteran deeply wanting to in providing for the needs, benefits and became a human being, with all our how and when that would take place, share the Catholic faith. welfare of all veterans and their families. limitations, without losing his divinity. as the quotation from St. Leo the Great I have recently returned from a very If you would like to ask questions As St. Paul’s Letter to the Philippians above said. memorable trip to Liberty, Mo., celebrating about how to become a member of a says, quoting an early Christian hymn, That reconciliation could not be and commemorating the cause for CWV Veterans Post, seek requirements “Christ Jesus, though he was in the form accomplished by just any human being, canonization of the heroic battlefield Navy for joining the Auxiliary, or perhaps of God, did not regard equality with but it required a human to do it. So God Chaplain, Father Vincent Robert Capodanno, petition information for forming a Post God something to be grasped. Rather, the Father sent his Son to become fully MaryKnoll Missionary, Servant of God, and (a minimum of 15 veterans is required), he emptied himself, taking the form of human to achieve that reconciliation. posthumous recipient of The Congressional please e-mail me at [email protected]. a slave, coming in human likeness; and As John’s Gospel explained, “God Medal of Honor. I recommend that you go to The requirements to become a CWV found human in appearance, he humbled so loved the world that he gave his only capodannoguild.org to follow the account for member of a post include: himself” (Phil 2:6-8). Son, so that everyone who believes in canonization. • Being a baptized Catholic, who was He most assuredly humbled himself. him might not perish but might have An account of the battlefield situation in at least honorably discharged, and served As the Second Person of the Blessed eternal life. For God did not send his Son which Father Capodanno served valiantly at least 90 days of active duty. Trinity, he was and remains all powerful. into the world to condemn the world, but attending to the U.S. Marines of Mike The requirement to become a CWV As St. John’s Gospel says: “All things that the world might be saved through Company, 3rd Battalion, 5th Marines, can member of an auxiliary include: came to be through him, and without him” (Jn 3:16-17). be found in the book titled Swift Sword by • Being related to a veteran within two him nothing came to be” (Jn 1:3). Our Scriptures tell us that Jesus Doyle D. Glass. Father Capodanno was degrees. But he “emptied himself” when he has existed from all eternity, from that killed in action on Sept. 4, 1967. became human. He began as an embryo quote in the second paragraph to the one I introduced to Bishop Charles C. George (Bud) Erler, Jr. like all other human beings, then a fetus immediately above. He was not a man Thompson of Evansville last February my Post Commander, and finally the baby whose birth we who somehow became God. He was God desire to establish the first presence of the The Catholic War Veterans of The U.S.A., Inc. celebrate on Sunday. A baby completely who became man, because of God’s love Catholic War Veterans (CWV) organization Bishop Simon Bruté, Servant of God, dependent upon other humans to care for us. Isn’t that amazing? within Indiana. Bishop Thompson readily Memorial Post 1976 for him. That’s how much God the Son It’s true that we mere humans have endorsed and blessed this initiative, Martin County humbled himself. difficulties understanding how someone appointing my pastor, Father J. Kenneth Why did he do that? Here’s what can be both human and divine. Trying Walker as post chaplain. St. Pope Leo the Great wrote: “In to figure that out is what caused all sorts I was elected to the position of Post Letters Policy the fullness of time, chosen in the of beliefs early in Christianity, some of Commander, Post 1976, in Martin County. I unfathomable depths of God’s wisdom, them emphasizing Jesus’ divinity at the am asking all diocesan newspapers in Indiana Letters from readers are published the Son of God took for himself our expense of his humanity and others his to notify all veteran service organization in The Criterion as part of the common humanity in order to reconcile humanity at the expense of his divinity. posts and chapters within Indiana. newspaper’s commitment to “the it with its creator. He came to overthrow He was both at the same time. The purpose is to spread the word responsible exchange of freely- the devil, the origin of death, in that As a human, he “advanced in wisdom about this prominent 81-year-old federally held and expressed opinion among very nature by which he had overthrown and age” (Lk 2:52). He knew hunger and chartered veteran service organization, the People of God” (Communio et mankind” (from the Office of Readings thirst, and slept when he was tired. He which was founded by Father Edward J. Progressio, 116). for Christmas). wept. And, of course, he suffered and Higgins, in the Diocese of Brooklyn, N.Y., Letters from readers are welcome St. Athanasius put it more succinctly died. When he prayed, he didn’t pray to on May 19, 1935. and should be informed, relevant, when he wrote, “God became man himself, but to his Father. Having convened several World War well‑expressed, concise, temperate in so that man might become God.” He But, of course, he also did things that I veterans concerned about the “isms” tone, courteous and respectful. meant that someday, after we die, we humans can’t do: He walked on water, of that time, notably communism and The editors reserve the right to will actually share in God’s divinity in calmed a stormy sea, multiplied food, Naziism, Father Higgins traveled to select and edit the letters based on heaven. It’s what we pray for in every raised the dead, and forgave sinners. Rome and received a papal blessing from space limitations, pastoral sensitivity Mass when, during the Offertory, the This was his divine nature. Pope Pius XI on June 11, 1935, for this and content. priest adds a drop of water to wine and So let us rejoice at Jesus’ birth. We new organization. Letters must be signed, but, for says, “By the mystery of this water see him in a lowly manger in a cave in The CWV, similar to the Knights of serious reasons, names may be and wine may we come to share in the the small town of Bethlehem, on the Columbus in spreading the Catholic withheld. divinity of Christ who humbled himself outskirts of the Roman Empire. But we faith by word and example, continues to Send letters to “Letters to the Editor,” to share in our humanity.” know that he is the Savior of the world. gain new membership in both posts and The Criterion, 1400 N. Meridian Street, However, we could not share in We’re awed. auxiliary. Indianap­olis, IN 46202-2367. Christ’s divinity if he had not taken on The CWV mandates, as its primary Readers with access to e-mail may our human nature. Since the sin of Adam —John F. Fink responsibility, to diligently cooperate send letters to [email protected]. with all veterans service organizations The Criterion Friday, December 23, 2016 Page 5

Cardinal/Cardenal Joseph W. Tobin

Rejoice in the Lord

Alégrense en el Señor

God is closer to us than we dare admit

This is my final contribution to institutions of influence such as the return to his native land to “grow in society, including the unborn, the aged The Criterion’s “Rejoice in the Lord” media, our businesses, schools and wisdom, age and grace” in a community and infirm, are protected and cared for column. I don’t know about you, but I health care agencies, and, yes, the that nurtures and supports him and his in the same way that Mary and Joseph will miss these weekly opportunities to Church. family according to the ancient faith of cared for the newborn child entrusted to share with you my reflections on diverse But God surprises us. God inverts Israel. their care? Church teachings as they impact the our values, showing us that the first will This is a strange story that has Christmas is a season of joy and events of our time. But if there has to be be last, the lowly will be raised up, the become so familiar over the years that hope. It’s a time for giving and sharing a final column, I’m happy that it is being rich will be sent away empty, and the we risk losing sight of its power. The all that we have ourselves received published just a few days before the poor will inherit the Earth and all its Christmas story is so much more than from God’s abundance. The material wonderful celebration of Christmas. treasures. the quiet, domestic tale we have turned gifts that we exchange at Christmas are In this season of joy, we become God’s ways are not our ways. it into. Yes, there is plenty of warmth, symbols of the much deeper sharing God aware once again that God is closer to High is low. Rich is poor. Power is beauty and hope here. In the dead of invites us to embrace. We are called to us than we dare admit. The immense, service. These are God’s ways, not winter, when days are short and nights follow God’s example, gratefully giving all-powerful, all-knowing God who our ways. Most amazing of all the are long, we are right to be comforted ourselves out of love for God and for the created the universe has become one of divine paradoxes is the fact that the by the Christmas story. And in tense human family. us (and one with us) in the incarnation all-powerful God comes to us in the and uncertain times such as ours, it is As I celebrate my last Christmas in of Jesus, the Word made flesh. God’s absolute vulnerability of a newborn good to be reminded that God does not central and southern Indiana, I pray most profound intervention in human infant, who can do nothing for himself abandon us or keep us at arm’s length. for the strength to live the Christmas history—and in the lives of each one of and is completely dependent on the But the fact of God’s intimate paradox in my new ministry as us—shows beyond any doubt how much loving care he receives from his mother closeness makes demands on us that Archbishop of Newark, N.J. I am deeply God cares for us. and his foster father. are uncomfortable. Do we live the grateful for all that you have shared with The fact that Jesus is born so Jesus, who is both divine and human, Christmas paradox in our daily lives? me during the past four years. Your love humbly, in a stable surrounded by his can be held in the arms of his parents, What are we doing to care for the poor and prayerful support have helped me loving family and by social outcasts nursed by his mother, and protected and homeless? How are we working become a better man and, I hope, a more (shepherds) and domestic animals, is a from the elements by a mere stable. to transform cultural, political and faithful bishop. scandal by any human standard. We are His life can be threatened by a jealous economic structures that are oppressive So, with some sadness but even conditioned to look for God among the and cruel despot who slaughters the and unjust? Do we welcome strangers— more joy, I wish you, and everyone wealthy and powerful, the “important innocent, and after narrowly escaping especially those who have been cast out in our beloved Hoosier state, a Merry people” who govern our society, who and being forced to flee to another of their homeland? Do we insist that Christmas and God’s peace in the New drive our economy and who control country as a homeless refugee, he can the most vulnerable members of our Year! †

Dios está más cerca de lo que nos atrevemos a reconocer

Esta es mi última columna de personas importantes” que gobiernan en sabiduría, edad y gracia,” en una protegidos y cuidados de la misma “Alégrense en el Señor” para The nuestra sociedad, que guían nuestra comunidad que lo cuida y lo apoya, tanto forma que María y José cuidaron al Criterion. No sé si a ustedes les economía y que controlan instituciones a él como a su familia, de acuerdo con la recién nacido que fue confiado a sus pasará igual, pero yo voy a extrañar influyentes, tales como los medios antiquísima fe de Israel. cuidados? la oportunidad semanal de compartir de comunicación, las empresas, las Estamos tan familiarizados con esta La Navidad es una temporada de con ustedes mis reflexiones sobre las escuelas, las organizaciones médicas y, curiosa historia que con el paso de los alegría y esperanza. Es una época distintas enseñanzas de la Iglesia y por supuesto, la Iglesia. años corremos el riesgo de olvidarnos de para dar y compartir todo lo que sus repercusiones sobre los eventos de Pero Dios nos sorprende. Dios su grandeza. La historia de la Navidad hemos recibido de la abundancia nuestros tiempos. Pero si hubiera tenido revoluciona nuestros valores al es mucho más que el relato tranquilo y de Dios. Los obsequios materiales que elegir el momento para publicar mi demostrarnos que los primeros serán doméstico en el que la hemos convertido. que intercambiamos en Navidad última columna, me alegra que haya los últimos, los más humildes serán Por supuesto que encierra muchísimo son símbolos del más profundo sido unos días antes de la maravillosa ensalzados, los ricos regresarán sin nada afecto, belleza y esperanza. En pleno compartir que Dios nos invita a que celebración de la Navidad. y los pobres heredarán la Tierra y todos invierno, cuando los días son cortos y aceptemos. Estamos llamados a seguir En esta época de alegría tomamos sus tesoros. las noches son largas, ciertamente el el ejemplo de Dios, entregándonos conciencia una vez más de que Dios Los caminos de Dios son distintos relato de Navidad nos brinda consuelo. agradecidamente por amor a Dios y a la está más cerca de nosotros de lo que de los nuestros. Lo alto es lo más bajo. Y en una época tan tensa y llena de familia humana. nos atrevemos a admitir. El inmenso, El rico es pobre. El servicio es el poder. incertidumbres como la nuestra, resulta Mientras celebro mi última Navidad todopoderoso y omnisciente Dios Estos son los caminos de Dios, no los oportuno recordar que Dios no nos en el centro y el sur de Indiana, que creó el universo se ha convertido nuestros. La más maravillosa de todas abandona ni se mantiene distanciado de rezo para tener la fuerza para vivir en uno de nosotros (y en uno con las paradojas divinas es el hecho de que nosotros. la paradoja de la Navidad en mi nosotros) a través de la encarnación el Dios todopoderoso viene a nosotros Pero la presencia tan cercana nuevo ministerio como Arzobispo de de Jesús, el Verbo hecho carne. La en la más absoluta vulnerabilidad de un de Dios genera exigencias que nos Newark, en Nueva Jersey. Me siento intervención más grande de Dios en recién nacido quien no puede valerse por resultan incómodas. ¿Vivimos la profundamente agradecido por todo lo la historia humana, y en las vidas de sí mismo y depende por completo de los paradoja de la Navidad en nuestras que ustedes han compartido conmigo a todos nosotros, nos demuestra sin cuidados amorosos de su madre y de su vidas cotidianas? ¿Qué hacemos para lo largo de estos cuatro años. Su amor lugar a dudas lo mucho que Dios se padre adoptivo. cuidar a los pobres y los indigentes? y piadoso apoyo me han ayudado a ser preocupa por nosotros. Jesús, que es tanto divino como ¿Qué hacemos para transformar las un mejor hombre y, espero, también un El hecho de que Jesús hubiera humano, se acurruca en los brazos de estructuras culturales, políticas y obispo más fiel. nacido tan humilde, en un establo sus padres, su madre lo amamanta y tan económicas opresivas e injustas? ¿Les Así que con un poco de tristeza, pero rodeado de su amorosa familia, de solo un establo lo protege contra los damos la bienvenida a los extraños, con muchísima más alegría, ¡les deseo a los marginados de la sociedad (los elementos. Su vida se ve amenazada especialmente aquellos que han sido todos en nuestro querido estado hoosier, pastores) y de animales domésticos por la envidia y un cruel déspota que expulsados de sus patrias? ¿Nos una feliz Navidad y la paz del Señor en constituye un escándalo desde masacra a los inocentes y, tras escapar empeñamos en que los integrantes el Año Nuevo! † cualquier perspectiva humana. Estamos por poco y verse obligado a huir a otro más vulnerables de nuestra sociedad, condicionados a buscar a Dios en país como un refugiado sin hogar, puede inclusive los bebés en gestación, la riqueza y en el poder, en “las regresar a su tierra natal para “crecer los ancianos y los enfermos, estén Traducido por: Daniela Guanipa Page 6 The Criterion Friday, December 23, 2016

For a list of events for the next four weeks as reported to Events Calendar The Criterion, log on to www.archindy.org/events.

December 27 January 6 Mass, prayers, rosary, Prayer Service, theme www.stluke.org. Information: Information: 317-784-4439 or St. Michael the Archangel SS, Peter and Paul Cathedral confession, meditation, 8 a.m. “Praying for Peace in the 317-259-4373. www.catholiccemeteries.cc. Church, 3354 W. 30th St., chapel, 1347 N. Meridian Information: 765-647-5462. World and in Our Hearts”, Indianapolis. Monthly Taizé St., Indianapolis. Lumen Dei 7-8 p.m., silent and spoken White Violet Center for January 19 Terre Haute Helpers of Eco-Justice, 1 Sisters of Prayer Service, held monthly Catholic Business Group, prayers, simple music, St. Joseph Church, 1401 S. God’s Precious Infants, Providence, Saint Mary-of-the- on fourth Tuesday, candle-lit 6:30 a.m. Mass, 7:15-8:30 silence. Information: 812-535- Mickley Ave., Indianapolis. service with readings, a.m. breakfast at Lincoln 7:30 a.m. Mass at the 2952, [email protected]. Woods, St. Mary-of-the-Woods. Carmelite Monastery, 59 Perfect Pastry at Home, Third Thursday Adoration, meditation and music, 7 p.m. Square Pancake House, 2330 interceding for women Information: 317-926-7359, N. Meridian St., Indianapolis. Allendale, Terre Haute; 8:45 techniques of making pastry experiencing crisis pregnancy, [email protected]. Information: 317-435-3447 or a.m. car pool from St. Patrick January 14 in a home kitchen, 1-5 p.m., 11 a.m.-7 p.m., with Mass at [email protected]. Parish, 1807 Poplar St., The Willows, 6729 Westfield $45, registration deadline Jan. Terre Haute, to Bloomington Blvd, Indianapolis. Marriage 9. Information: 812-535-2932, 5:45 p.m. December 28 Most Holy Name of Jesus Planned Parenthood, 421 on Tap, One in Christ [email protected], events. Hoosier Strike and Spare, Church, 89 N. 17th Ave., S. College Ave., arriving facilitators Dr. Konrad and sistersofprovidence.org. Our Lady of Peace Cemetery 2310 State St., New Albany. Beech Grove. First Friday 10:15 a.m.; return to St. Sonia Maria Szymanski and Mausoleum, 9001 New Albany Deanery devotion, exposition of the Patrick Parish around noon. presenting, $40 per couple January 18 Haverstick Road, Indianapolis. Catholic Youth Ministries Blessed Sacrament, 5:30 p.m.; Information: Tom McBroom, includes dinner, cash bar Calvary Mausoleum Chapel, Monthly Mass, 2 p.m. Bowl-a-thon fundraiser, reconciliation, 5:45-6:45 p.m.; 812-841-0060, mcbroom. available, 7-9:30 p.m., register 435 W. Troy Ave., Indianapolis. Information: 317-574-8898 or [email protected]. pick up a bowling pin bank Mass, 7 p.m.; Litany of the by Jan. 7. Registration: Christmas Mass, 2 p.m. www.catholiccemeteries.cc. † at CYM office at Mount Sacred Heart and prayers for St. Francis, 101 St. Anthony the Holy Father, 7:30 p.m. January 8 Drive, Mt. St. Francis; bring Information: 317-784-5454. For a complete list of retreats as reported to to event for admission, cost is St. Michael the Archangel Church, 3354 W. 30th Retreats and Programs The Criterion, log on to www.archindy.org/retreats. $5 per person or $20 per Our Lady of the Greenwood family for two games of St., Indianapolis. Mass in Church, 335 S. Meridian St., French, 1 p.m. Information: Indianapolis. Ignatian bowling and shoe rental, Greenwood. First Friday December 31- January 6-8 noon-2 p.m, register by [email protected]. January 1, 2017 Our Lady of Fatima Retreat Spirituality Project, monthly celebration of the Most Sacred evening of prayer and Dec. 27. Information, Our Lady of Fatima Retreat House, 5353 E. 56th St., Heart of Jesus, Mass, 5:45 p.m., St. Therese of the Infant Jesus community, 6-7:30 p.m. registration: 812-923-8355, House, 5353 E. 56th. St., Indianapolis. Tobit Marriage exposition of the Blessed (Little Flower) Church, 4720 www.nadyouth.org or Information: 317-545-7681 or Sacrament, following Mass E. 13th St., Indianapolis. Indianapolis. “The Magic Preparation Weekend, [email protected]. www.archindy.org/fatima. until 9:30 p.m., sacrament Class of ’63 monthly of Stories for Faith Hope $298 includes separate room of Reconciliation available. gathering, 6 p.m. Mass, and Love” New Year’s Eve accommodations for couple, 2017 Information: 317-888-2861 or optional dinner afterward. retreat, Father Jeff Godecker meals, snacks and materials. January 21 [email protected]. Information: 317-408-6396. presenting, Sat. 4 p.m.-Sun., Information, registration: Providence Spirituality & January 3 noon, $145 single, $270 www.archindy.org/fatima/ Conference Center, 1 Sisters Mission 27 Resale, 132 Leota Our Lady of the Greenwood married couple. Information calendar/tobit.html, Marcia. of Providence, Saint Mary- St., Indianapolis. Senior Church, 335 S. Meridian, January 10-March 28 and registration: 317-545- of-the-Woods, St. Mary-of- [email protected] or Discount Day, every Tuesday, Greenwood. Serra Club, St. Christopher Parish, 7681, ext. 107, marcia. the-Woods. The Power of 317-545-7681, ext. 107. seniors get 30 percent off Mass for Vocations, 7:30 a.m., Damascus Room, 5301 W. [email protected] or Forgiveness, Providence clothing, 9 a.m.-6 p.m., followed by coffee and donuts. 16th St., Speedway. Gospel of www.archindy.org/fatima. Sister Ann Sullivan presenting, ministry supports Indianapolis Information: 317-748-1478 or John Scripture Study, meets January 13-14 9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m., $45 St. Vincent de Paul Society [email protected]. weekly for 10 weeks, 7-9 p.m., includes lunch, registration Food Pantry and Changing Our Lady of Fatima Retreat open to all, $75 payable in 2017 deadline Jan. 16. Information Lives Forever program. House, 5353 E. 56th St., Fatima Retreat House, 5353 E. installments, scholarships and registration: 812-535-2952, Information: 317-687-8260. 56th St., Indianapolis. Serra January 6-7 Indianapolis. Pre-Cana available, registration required [email protected] Club Dinner Meeting, by Jan. 8. Information and Otter Creek Retreat Preparation Conference, January 4 6-8 p.m., dinner meeting registration: Lois Jansen, Center, 5165 Old Mill $255 with overnight followed by speaker, $15. 317-241-9169 or Rd., Bradenburg, Ky. New accommodations (two rooms), Archbishop O’Meara Catholic January 30 Information: 317-748-1478 or [email protected]. Our Lady of Fatima Retreat Center, 1400 N. Meridian St., Albany Deanery Catholic $185 for commuters, includes [email protected]. House, 5353 E. 56th St., Indianapolis. Solo Seniors, Youth Ministries “The meals, snacks and materials. Catholic, educational, January 10 Walking Dead” College Information, registration: Indianapolis. Evening of Reflection, 6:30-9 p.m., $35 charitable and social singles, January 7 Church of the Immaculate Winter Retreat, Sat., 4 p.m.- www.archindy.org/plfl/ includes light snacks and 50 and over, single, separated, St. Michael Church, 145 Conception, 1 Sisters of Sun., 4 p.m., $40. Register marriage-precana.html. widowed or divorced. New St. Michael Blvd., Brookville. Providence, Saint Mary-of- refreshments. Information and by Dec. 28. Registration registration: 317-545-7681, members welcome. 6 p.m. First Saturday Marian the-Woods. St. Mary-of- and information: 812-923- Information: 317-243-0777. Devotional Prayer Group, the-Woods. Monthly Taizé January 16 ext. 107, marcia.johnson@ 8355, www.nadyouth.org or Our Lady of Fatima Retreat archindy.org or www. [email protected]. House, 5353 E. 56th St., archindy.org/fatima. †

Catholics Returning Home to be offered at St. Malachy Church starting in January An ongoing series called “Catholics non-practicing Catholics who are seeking Returning Home” will be held at answers to questions about returning to St. Malachy Church, 9833 E. County the Church. There will be informal sharing Road 750 N., in Brownsburg, on six and an update of the Catholic faith. consecutive Tuesday evenings at 7 p.m. For more information, call beginning on Jan. 3. These sessions are for 317-650-5751. †

Documentary on Sisters of St. Francis in Oldenburg to be shown on Jan. 18 A special screening of A Sign of the 80th year in Indianapolis. The university Cross, a documentary on the Sisters of was founded by the Sisters of the St. Francis in Oldenburg, will be shown in Third Order Regular of St. Francis in Marian Hall Theater at Marian University, Oldenburg. 3200 Cold Spring Road, in Indianapolis, The event is free of charge and open from 6-7:30 p.m. on Jan. 18. to all. The event will kick off a yearlong For more information, call celebration honoring Marian University’s 317-955-6213. †

Presentation on Catholic families offered at Christ the King Church on Jan. 18

A presentation titled “Being a presence, while inviting others to take the Catholic Family in a Busy World” next step on their journey toward God. will be offered at Christ the King He will share his own toolbox for raising Hoosiers students supporting Haiti Church, 1827 Kessler Blvd. E. Dr., in a family of faith. Indianapolis, from 7-9 p.m. on Jan. 18. The event is sponsored by parishes of Students from various grades at St. Louis School in Batesville pose with posters of Haitian The evening features nationally the Indianapolis North Deanery. children they and their classmates supported through St. Anthony Haiti Ministry, which helps known Catholic motivational speaker For more information, call Christ the provide education, food and medical supplies to the people of Gandou, Haiti. In just 12 days, the Mike Patin, who uses energy, humor and King Parish office at 317-255-3666. † school children collected nearly $3,000. To make a donation to the St. Louis/St. Anthony Haiti stories to affirm God’s goodness and Ministry, log on to www.gandouministry.com. (Submitted photo) The Criterion Friday, December 23, 2016 Page 7 Workshop helps pastoral leaders ‘look deeper’ at what they do

By Natalie Hoefer “There’s always things to learn. To me, being a pastor is When Father Daniel Bedel became a an art. As with any art, there’s parish administrator for the first time this always another way to look summer, he admits that, “with only two at things, another avenue to years of priesthood under my belt, I was reach the target,” he says. “It’s scared to death!” the exciting part of being a He cites a long list of skills he needed pastor—learning more and to hone, including “how to manage a staff, different ways to accomplish how to maintain a healthy schedule and the mission of God’s work. avoid burnout, how to inspire vision and “In some ways, [the mission at the parish workshop] helped me to feel to help it grow in good about some of the stuff holiness and strength, we’ve been doing at St. John [and] how to be a Paul II.” well-rounded priest The workshop was created who could teach, by the National Leadership sanctify and govern.” Roundtable on Church Fortunately for Management. The group also Father Bedel, he created and offered a separate Priests listen to a presenter at the Toolbox for Pastoral Leaders workshop at Saint Meinrad Seminary and School of had an opportunity two-day Toolbox workshop Theology in Saint Meinrad on Sept. 29. The workshop was made possible through the archdiocesan Empowering Fr. Daniel Bedel in September to for parish life coordinators Pastoral Leaders for Excellence in Parish Leadership and Management project, which is funded through a Lilly learn about these and business managers, held Endowment grant. (Submitted photo) areas at the Toolbox for Pastoral in November at Our Lady of Management workshop. It was sponsored Fatima Retreat House in Indianapolis. drinking from a firehose, because there continue,” he explains. “We’re already by the Empowering Pastoral Leaders Franciscan Sister Shirley Gerth has was so much great information,” he says. looking at that. for Excellence in Parish Leadership and been a parish life coordinator for 25 “And I heard a number of priests say, “We were overdue, I think, to do Management project, funded by a three- years, currently serving in that role at ‘This was the best workshop I’ve ever something like this. … Management has year grant from the Lilly Endowment. St. Maurice Parish in Napoleon. Like gone to.’ ” gotten so complicated and requires a good Father Bedel, administrator of Father Clegg, Sister Shirley was open to All of those interviewed expressed many more skills than it did 30-40 years St. Margaret Mary and St. Patrick learning new strategies despite her years deep gratitude for the opportunity to ago [when] there was hardly any lay staff. parishes in Terre Haute, lauds the pastoral of experience. focus on the management aspects of their Now priests [and parish life coordinators] management training he received while in In addition to pastoral jobs. must manage, evaluate and motivate their formation at Saint Meinrad Seminary and being impressed by “I think it’s very important, because staff, help their staff to do a better job. School of Theology in Saint Meinrad. But the presenters, she it’s a time to step back from the desk and How [do they] do that in a way that is he admits that “there’s a big difference appreciated the faith day-to-day routine, [to] look deeper at effective and good for the parish and good from the theory of the classroom and the perspective from what it is we do every day to make sure for each minister?” reality of the parish.” which they approached we’re doing the right things for the right Those were just the type of questions He was joined by 18 other priests their topics. reasons,” says Ellsworth. Father Bedel was hoping to have from the archdiocese and one from “They themselves Father Clegg agrees. answered at the Toolbox for Pastoral the Diocese of Saginaw, Mich., for the were people of faith,” “Any continuing education opportunity, Management. five‑day workshop on Sept. 26-30 at she says. “It’s more especially good ones like this, is such a “Contrary to popular belief, we’re Saint Meinrad. Sr. Shirley Gerth, taught than caught. If blessing to help keep us motivated, to human too, and we need opportunities “It was great to attend a workshop O.S.F. you live the faith, that help keep us on track, to help us hone in to grow and learn just like anyone else,” that directly spoke to the issues and can be picked up by people without saying on our purpose and our mission. To make he says. “Perhaps more than anyone worries I was experiencing as a new anything. I appreciated them being people those things available is a blessing that else, because we’re in the business of administrator in the midst of parish of faith, and that came across in their our archdiocese has taken advantage of saving souls and bringing people to work,” he says. sessions.” through this grant program.” Jesus Christ.” “I walked away with about 50 pages of Molly Ellsworth, business manager Sister Shirley believes that “any new notes that I’m still referencing and using of St. Joan of Arc Parish in Indianapolis, person in pastoral leadership would (The next Toolbox for Pastoral months after the fact. found the workshop helpful not just in a benefit from attending something similar Management is scheduled for Sept. 5-8, “Not only did the workshop bring in practical sense, but also as a reminder of to this.” 2017, at Our Lady of Fatima Retreat knowledgeable speakers that presented “the big picture,” that “what my job is, Continuing to make this and similar House in Indianapolis. For more topics of great interest and utility to is to support the mission of the Catholic workshops available was a goal that information on the Empowering Pastoral pastors, but it also brought together Church.” retired Father Jeffrey Godecker had in Leaders project and its offerings, log on under one roof a wide range of ages She appreciates the opportunity not mind when writing the application for the to www.archindy.org/leadership/index. and backgrounds from within our own just to learn best practices for her line of Lilly Endowment grant. html or contact Matt Hayes at 317- presbyterate. work, but also to network with her peers. “A part of the grant work is how do 236-1562, 800-382-9836, ext. 1562, or “There were new guys like me who “When you put however many of us we sustain what we started, how does it [email protected].) † were simply happy to sit in the back in a room, it’s really nice to get feedback row and take in as much information as from other folks, to see what they’re possible. And then there were veterans doing and let you know you’re not alone, with decades of firsthand experiences who that you’re facing the same challenges.” shared their stories about what worked The results from both workshops were and what didn’t work for them.” overwhelmingly positive. According Father Thomas Clegg, pastor of to Matt Hayes, Empowering Pastoral St. John Paul II Parish in Sellersburg, is Leaders project manager, the workshop ShelbyShelby UpholsteringUpholstering one such priest, with 26 years of parish for priests received an overall rating of 4.9 pastoral experience. on a scale of one to five, and the shorter But even he benefited from the workshop received a rating of 4.88. && MillMill EndEnd WindowWindow FashionsFashions Toolbox for Pastoral Management “One of the things a number of them workshop. said in both groups was it was like

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Readers share their favorite For a poor little girl, a Christmas Christmas memories wish comes true in children’s home By Darlene Davis appeared, handing out little stiff, red, mesh stockings stuffed with candy and little trinkets Up until that year, Christmas had been and coloring books and crayons. There was one pretty lean for my family. In fact, many for each child! I remember being so excited A sign of faith and mercy in a years it had been just another day. that it did not have to be shared with others! I That year when the country song “I Saw supposed that this surely was the one gift that place of tragedy and sadness Momma Kissing Santa Claus” had become a we were to get for Christmas. And it was so hit, my family had been too poor to be able much more than just one gift! It was stuffed By Sherie Berg “Going home tomorrow,” “Pokemon spoken to afford Christmas presents or to hope for with gifts! My little mind wondered, “How here” and “No vampires need apply” on the Santa at all. could Christmas get any better?” I clung to my On Dec. 8, 2015, Pope Francis opened the outside of the door. Because of our little scratchy, stiff, red stocking all the way doors to St. Peter’s Basilica at the Vatican The rooms have a couch, a reclining See more memories poverty and problems back to the orphanage, and hung it carefully in on page 10. and announced a Holy Year of Mercy. On chair, a TV and Wii game. They are pretty in the family, several my locker after having eaten most of the candy. Dec, 9, 2015, my 13-year-old grandson comfortable, but then too often stays are long. of us children had been placed in Kentucky As Christmas Day approached, there was Pilgrims pray on Dec. 17 in the grotto of the Church of Nativity in Bethlehem, West Bank. (CNS photo/Debbie Hill) was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic The more decorated the room, the more likely Children’s Home for our own safety. It was a a noticeable change in the appearance of the leukemia. He was admitted that day to Riley it is that the child has been there a long time. strange and scary thing for me, a child of six Christmas tree that stood in the corner of the Hospital for Children in Indianapolis. Thus After Ian was released from the hospital, and the youngest child in the orphanage at that living room in the girls’ quarters. Packages Homeless man shares in began a most difficult journey. This was not he was scheduled for weekly chemotherapy time. The unfamiliar routine, discipline and began to appear under the tree in all sizes what we wanted for Christmas. at the Riley clinic next door to the hospital. regulations were bewildering to me. But soon and shapes, wrapped and ribboned with celebration of Christ’s birth Only a generation ago, this most common On Dec. 24, he and his parents went to the I adjusted, as children do, and I began to enjoy colorful paper and bows. Though it was fun of the childhood cancers claimed all its clinic for his weekly chemo. We expected he the security and the dependability of the place. to watch this expansion of the Christmas By Arleen Krebs quietly and finally left early. children. Mercifully, that is no longer the would be sick on Christmas from the chemo, As Christmas approached, there was a tree, it did not occur to me, a child When the Mass was over, the other man case and the prognosis is good, although the but at least he would be home. That did not new kind of current in the air. Children who unaccustomed to receiving gifts, that any of On April 27, 2001, our beloved Sacred left and was walking toward downtown in treatment is most difficult. happen. had been there for past Christmases began these pretty packages were for me. Heart of Jesus Church in Indianapolis suffered the falling snow. Mercifully, too, Ian lives not far from Riley, Blood tests came back with bad news, and to share their excitement. “Ask for anything On Christmas morning, everyone a $1 million electrical fire. For almost two As we passed him in our warm car, I had so much of his treatment could be outpatient. he was admitted to the hospital. We were all you want!” they told the younger ones of us. gathered in the living room after breakfast, years, we were forced to celebrate Mass in my husband stop, and I went up to the man Hospitals are not fun places to spend your very distressed. As I walked to his room that “You will only get one thing, but make the and all of a sudden the beautiful gifts began our parish hall down the street. On occasion, with $20 in my hand. I hugged him, and said teenage years. In the best case scenario, this Christmas Eve, not in a hopeful Christmas list long anyway. You never know!” to be distributed. My anticipation began to a homeless person from nearby downtown I was glad to see him in church tonight. He was going to be a three-year ordeal. mood, I noticed something written on one of I had watched many of the girls in the grow as child after child received a gift to would amble in and halfway participate in the immediately started crying, and said he didn’t It would be impossible to say how the doors. Someone had drawn a Christmas orphanage skating out on the sidewalks, and open. Maybe one of these lovely packages Mass. But, more often than not, they would want this kind of life anymore but didn’t wonderful the folks at Riley are. Hope tree with a star on top. Written inside the tree I had longed to have a pair of roller skate so was for me after all! leave after a short time. know what to do. He asked me to pray for A crèche titled “Jesus the Global Refugee” is seen outside Our Lady of the happens here, as they say. Doctors, medical were the words: “I believe in God, the Father I could join them. Unaccustomed to asking Paper and ribbon flew in all directions On Christmas Eve, the snow was falling him, and off he went. Miraculous Medal Church in Wyandanch, N.Y., on Nov. 27. The structure, students, nurses (most especially pediatric almighty, Creator of heaven and Earth, and in for gifts, let alone receiving them, I limited as squeals of delight filled the room. Then at a fast pace. The parish hall was full, and Fifteen years later, I still wonder what designed as a refugee’s lean-to, was created to call public attention to the oncology nurses), technicians, support Jesus Christ his only Son, our Lord, who was my list to one thing—roller skates. suddenly a package appeared in my lap. It was Mass had just started when two homeless happened to him. biblical mandate to welcome immigrants and give shelter to refugees. staff, volunteers, even the people who clean conceived by the Holy Spirit and born of the A few weeks before Christmas we so beautiful that I hesitated a moment to open men came in and sat down. One was (CNS photo/Gregory A. Shemitz) the rooms are awesome. No one leaves a Virgin Mary.” children, dressed in our Sunday best, were it, but not for long. As I tore into the box, I obviously Catholic and followed along (Arleen Krebs is a member of Sacred Heart patient’s room without asking if there is There on the children’s cancer floor, in a loaded onto a bus and taken to a beautiful realized that my best wish for Christmas had perfectly, while the other just sat there of Jesus Parish in Indianapolis.) † anything you need. But the fifth floor of place of tragedy and sadness, was faith. This place in Louisville for a Christmas party. come true. There in my lap was a shiny new Unique Christmas crèche a Riley, Hematology/Oncology, is a terrifying was my Christmas miracle. (Many years later, I learned that it was the pair of clamp-on roller skates! place to be. So many children, so much pain. It has been a year now since our day Brown Hotel.) I just remember thinking As I have reflected on that Christmas over treasured family heirloom Ian spent the next seven days at Riley on of infamy. There have been other hospital how glamorous the place was. Crystal the years, I have thought of how easy it is to By Karen Gerhart the fifth floor. The rooms are large. They have admissions, some longer, some when Ian was chandeliers, beautiful carpet, enormous get caught up in all that Christmas has come Family continues much-loved to be because sometimes there are a lot of much sicker, but I will remember that one as Christmas trees and dazzling decorations to entail. Then I remember how a simple pair My grandfather received one of his most cherished possessions people working on a single child in distress. a sign of faith in a difficult time. A time of gave this little 6-year-old the impression of of roller skates and a cheap little red stocking Christmas tradition full of fun in December of 1937. His friend and co-worker at the St. Meinrad The doors to the rooms are glass with blinds mercy, in a Holy Year of Mercy. a Christmas wonderland. I had never been in were once all I needed to have the best and By Cecelia Kiley builds as tons of paper fills the room and Archabbey Printing Press won it at a Christmas party bingo game. for privacy. Sometimes, patients or their such a luxurious place in all my short life! most joyful Christmas of my young life. the lucky recipient yells out a win! This friend gave it to my grandfather, a small-town humble man families and friends decorate the rooms and (Sherie Berg is a member of St. Joan of Arc We were treated to a meal of hot dogs We had a Christmas tradition that Mom I remember the smile on Dad’s face as whose calmness and wisdom was palpable as a gift. This cherished doors, writing things like “Warrior Princess,” Parish in Indianapolis.) † and macaroni and cheese. Excitement grew (Darlene Davis is a member of St. Michael and Dad started years ago, and now my he witnessed the fun created by this little present was a crèche, a crib set made in Germany. as bells began to jingle, and suddenly, Santa Parish in Greenfield.) † siblings and I continue to carry it forth. tradition. And now, it is my turn to smile The wooden stable, woolen sheep and Nativity figures were all Red, green, blue or white balls are as I watch my children and grandchildren crafted and painted with precision. My grandfather proudly displayed formed with copious wrappings of crepe explode with delight when I bring out the it year after year in his small house under a Christmas tree that he paper. Inside each ball, one might find a much-loved Christmas balls! would decorate for his family of five children every Christmas Eve. Granddaughter, Father Noah create note saying, “Sorry, better luck next time,” The years passed, and he would lose his wife to cancer. His Feast of the Seven Fishes has special or better yet, a $20 bill! (Cecelia Kiley is a member of St. Elizabeth five children would move away and have children of their own. special Christmas Eve memory As family members choose a ball to Ann Seton Parish in Carmel, Ind., in the However, the crib set was always on display as new grandchildren Christmas meaning for family unwrap on Christmas Day, excitement Lafayette Diocese.) † discovered it every Christmas, and his quiet house became alive By Jená Hartman Maigan’s arms and explained to her how the with activity around it each year. procession would be and what she was to do. By Thomas Rillo like Naples and Sicily. It was not known I was his youngest grandchild and only spent a few Christmases When Father Noah Casey was pastor at St. While he was talking to her, I noticed in northern Italy. The Feast of the Seven at his house before he passed away. However, my dad inherited the John the Evangelist Parish in Indianapolis, her occasionally looking at her doll securely My father and mother were both born Fishes was really all about seafood and crib set. So, one December in 1987, my dad set up the crib set for he had a very special tradition for Christmas wrapped in the knitted blanket. After his in Torecuso, Italy. It was a small Italian family. Roncalli, St. Jude families help make the first time in his own home with me and my siblings discovering Eve Mass. Father Noah would select a young instructions, Father Noah turned to speak village north of Benevento, a medium-size The number seven is revered in the the magic of it all over again. child from the parish to carry the statue of with the altar servers and the extraordinary Italian city. According to my son Tom, the Scriptures. La Festa dei Sette Pesci includes special Christmas wish come true Every Christmas, my dad tells the story of the origin of the crib set, Baby Jesus during the entrance procession to ministers of holy Communion. Maigan said three most dominant names in Torecuso the seven fishes because of the seven and now my own two young sons hear this same story and imagine and be placed in the beautiful crèche at the front to me, “Oma, Baby Jesus is cold; do you were Iannella, Zotti and Rillo. My mother sacraments, the seven virtues of Christ By Kathleen Lynch The smile on her face as the kids looked wonder as they stare at those same woolen sheep and painted Nativity of the church. think that he would like my baby’s blanket”? spent her early childhood in the United theology, the seven days it took for Joseph up and waved, cheered and blew kisses to figures that my grandfather handled with such care year after year. For several years, my husband Dale, and I Knowing that Father Noah would have States, returning for her teen years and then and Mary to reach Egypt, and the seven days In November of 2009, our 15-year-old her was priceless! The whole school rallied With each year that passes, my grandfather’s crèche has been were ushers for the 10:30 a.m. Sunday Mass. had a “spell” and a chuckle for the beautiful returning to the United States. Both were it took God to create the Earth. daughter, Kaitlin, was hospitalized for around her being there and making it a good a backdrop for so many Christmases. And, again this year, as we Often, we would have our granddaughter statue to have been covered with a knitted steeped in the traditions of Meso Giorno, Some Italian families include 13 fishes 30 days recovering from a stem-cell Christmas for her! gaze in wonder at this most memorable heirloom, we remember my Maigan with us since her mother was blanket, I assured Maigan that Baby Jesus (middle or Southern Italy). One of these to represent the 12 Apostles plus Jesus. transplant for recurring Hodgkin lymphoma. It was also not surprising that Father grandfather’s love and the stillness of a winter night with a baby in a working 12-hour shifts as a nurse. Maigan would soon be laying in his warm manger traditions was Festa dei Sette Pesci, or the Some families just include 11 fishes, and She had been battling the disease since Steve Banet and the St. Jude family made manger more than 2,000 years ago. would smile and greet the worshipers with at the front of the church close to his loving Feast of the Seven Fishes. exclude Jesus and Judas Iscariot. Other September of 2008, just weeks into her arrangements for our whole family to me, and helped with the bulletins at the parents, Mary and Joseph. As a young boy, I remember how my families just have three fishes to represent freshman year at Roncalli High School in be at Mass early and to be in the front (Karen Gerhart is a member of St. Susanna Parish in Plainfield.) † conclusion of Mass. Maigan would always Maigan processed up the aisle, sweetly mother prepared the Feast of the Seven the three wise men or the Holy Trinity. Indianapolis. She was released from Riley by the chapel area—again away from a bring her favorite doll with her to Mass, carrying Baby Jesus with all of the dignity Fishes. It was not a feast as such, but rather Other families just put the seven fishes in a Hospital on the day before Thanksgiving, lot of people, but a part of the beautiful lovingly placing the doll in our back pew and and adoration that an almost 5-year-old could a fasting or abstaining from meat and dairy stew called clopino. but the quarantine period for recovery was celebration. Fifty years later, manger from covering her with the blanket which I had have had. But, I really think as she proceeded products. It was always prepared on La My family always did just the seven approximately six months. At Communion, Father Steve brought knitted for it. to the altar and symbolically brought the Vigilia or Christmas Eve. It was OK to eat fishes. My mother would say that seven was There were two things Kaitlin really Communion to Katie so that she was able faraway place a family tradition The year Maigan was almost 5, she Christ Child into our midst, that maybe she seafood before going to midnight Mass important because of the seven sacraments. wanted for Christmas that year. One was to stay protected from the crowds. But this By Lana Hoffman Jesus and an actual wooden was selected to be the child to carry Baby had the right idea of carrying and sharing because it was not meat. We could eat meat Now my son Kevin carries the tradition to attend the Christmas choir program special place at Mass allowed her to see so manger for $4.99. I was elated Jesus for Christmas Eve Mass. With great and loving what Jesus came to proclaim only after receiving Communion. forward. He has accepted the responsibility at Roncalli, and the other was to attend many people that had been praying for her A long time ago, in a until I dug in my purse and anticipation, we purchased the traditional red to all of us. Maybe that night she grasped My brother John and I would return of preparing the feast, and he has kicked me midnight Mass at our home parish of and to, once again, feel the love of waves, faraway land (Florida), I spent had only $4.53. The clerk that velvet dress, matching hair accessory and the true concept of worshiping the Babe of home from Mass, and Mom would have out of my own kitchen. I can appreciate his St. Jude. While both of these seemed out blown kisses and prayers. Christmas. Having run away helped me, to this day, I think new shoes. Maigan was excited and we, as Bethlehem. hot meatballs on crisp Italian bread. It was doing so. His carrying out the tradition has of the question since she was supposed These two events made Christmas 2009 from home (Philadelphia) at the was an angel. Now it truly felt proud grandparents, were looking forward to Maigan is now in high school. I doubt a treat, although she would want to see lifted my heart. If my heart had wings, it to stay away from large crowds, I made one of the most special to our family. It ripe old age of 18, I felt lost and like Christmas. Yes, the clerk the honor. that this Christmas Eve memory is as vivid the Church bulletin as proof that we were would soar across the sky taking advantage the contacts to see if her wishes were allowed us to witness the true meaning lonely. Where was the snow, bagged up the manger and sold On a very cold, starry night, we arrived for her as it is for Dale and me. But it actually there. I can remember helping of the family updrafts of love and familial possible. of Christmas, and the special love from hills, ice, cold and winter coats? it to me for $4.53! for Christmas Eve Mass with our Maigan was special that cold night, and it is still mom with preparing the food for the feast. unity. I shouldn’t have been surprised when the wonderful people at Roncalli and Surely this wasn’t “the season.” That was 50 years ago! To looking like a “Christmas princess,” and her very special to us these many years later, It was my job to kill the eels that were It is the best Christmas gift that I could Chuck Weisenbach, the principal at St. Jude. Walking downtown in this day, my family celebrates ever-present doll was also dressed in a new remembering our special granddaughter and one seafood item. Nonna, my maternal ever wish for—bringing the entire family Roncalli, made arrangements for her and It made Christmas wishes come true for St. Petersburg, I passed a Christmas with my manger outfit and warmly wrapped in her blanket. our beloved Father Noah Casey. grandmother, would kill the eels in the together in mutual love and reverence for the me to be in the loft of the auditorium before a 15-year-old girl and a lasting memory for Kresge Five and Dime store from that faraway place! Father Noah came to the narthex with the bathtub. When she was too old for this, I birth of Jesus Christ. any of the students arrived for the Christmas her entire family. and decided to go in. There it beautiful statue of Baby Jesus. I have no idea (Jená Hartman, archdiocesan Birthline took over the job. concert at Roncalli. This way, she could be was—a manger complete with a (Lana Hoffman is a member where Father Noah had had that statue, but coordinator, is a member of SS. Francis and The Feast of the Seven Fishes had its (Thomas Rillo is a member of St. Charles a part of the program and see her friends (Kathleen Lynch is a member of St. Jude donkey, three sheep, cow, three of St. Joseph Parish in it was frigid! He gently placed the statue in Clare Parish in Greenwood.) † origin in the southern region in places Borromeo Parish in Bloomington.) † while staying away from personal contact. Parish in Indianapolis.) † wise men, Mary, Joseph, baby Indianapolis.) † Page 10 The Criterion Friday, December 23, 2016 Men’s conference participants offer public witness to faith By Sean Gallagher together to pray for those that we’ve elected. Some 800 men from across Indiana “We need healing. And this is a great and beyond filled a cavernous hall on gesture of our faith to help them know Nov. 19 at the Indiana Convention Center that we’re here to pray for our nation, our in Indianapolis for the 10th annual leaders and for healing.” Indiana Catholic Men’s Conference. Bishop Doherty reflected on the Inside that building, the men were election in his homily, saying that the renewed in their faith through prayer and conference “comes at a good time, hearing inspiring presentations on the because some people felt compelled to let faith and how to live it out in their daily go of themselves in order to become part lives. of our political process. And that would And in the middle of the conference, be the worst crime and theft ever.” these men took their faith to the streets of He expressed his hope that the downtown Indianapolis on a cold, blustery conference would help Catholic men day in a long and winding eucharistic to renew their convictions about their procession that went by the Indiana faith and hold it strongly, no matter how Statehouse and ended at St. John the much the world might tempt them to Father Rick Nagel, pastor of St. John the Evangelist Evangelist Church. compromise them. Parish in Indianapolis, holds a monstrance while The attendees then filled the large Bishop Doherty urged his listeners to leading a eucharistic procession on Nov. 19 past the church to capacity for a midday Mass make their own the teaching of St. John Indiana Statehouse during the 10th annual Indiana celebrated by Bishop Timothy L. Doherty Paul II that Jesus’ Incarnation brought Catholic Men’s Conference. (Photos by Sean Gallagher) of the Lafayette, Ind., Diocese and about a heightened brotherhood among all concelebrated by several priests. humanity. “We’re not truly what it is to be a man Jason Frey, a young husband and father “If you think this is a glib piece of or woman of Christ until we start praying from St. Louis Parish in Batesville, has theology, think about what it means in that the person that we hate the most on attended most of the men’s conferences terms of our national conversation right this Earth gets to sit next to us forever in and was impressed by the eucharistic now,” said Bishop Doherty, “about the heaven.” procession. dignity of other people, whether they are Walking over to a large crucifix on a “It was a powerful walk of faith and documented or not, whether they are of stage in the hall, Father Richards said that witness of faith,” said Frey. “With 800 our political party or not, whether they sacrificing oneself for the good of another men, it was like unlike anything that I’d are from a non-Christian country or still is what true masculinity is all about. ever seen.” living there or not.” “This is graced masculinity,” he said. David Gorsage, a member of Our Conference speaker Father Larry “This is what it is to be a man. Be strong Lady of the Most Holy Rosary Parish in Richards, a priest of the Diocese of enough to lay down your life in love. That Indianapolis, has likewise attended most Erie, Pa., also had the election on his is the light in the darkness. This is what it of the conferences. mind when he spoke in the convention is to surrender yourself completely to the As the men walked in prayer by the center, encouraging attendees to not will of God. This was when Christ was Statehouse, he couldn’t help but think judge people with whom they have sharp most powerful, when he was most weak. of the many officials who will soon be disagreements. “This is what brought you salvation. working there because they were chosen “We make them evil,” said Father Without this, you would be damned. This Popular Catholic author and speaker, Father Larry Richards, discusses the power in a historic election days earlier. Richards, a best-selling author and is what saved us. And so, when we’re of “graced masculinity” during the Nov. 19 “It’s what our country needs,” said popular speaker. “Right? Instead of showing the light in the darkness, we’re Indiana Catholic Men’s Conference at the Gorsage of the procession. “It’s about judging each other, we’ve got to start showing the power of love—God’s love. Indiana Convention Center in Indianapolis. Catholic men who oversee families, loving each other. We’ve got to do this. Not a weak love.” Father Richards is a priest of the Diocese of businesses, communities. They’re coming See CONFERENCE, page 14 Erie, Pa. Pope to visit Fatima in May 2017 Guadalupe Mass leads to special VATICAN CITY (CNS)—The Vatican announced on Dec. 17. memory for teacher and family confirmed that Pope Francis will visit The pilgrimage will mark the 100th Portugal in 2017 anniversary of the Marian apparitions, Dr. Susan E. Israel wonderful job. He knew all his parts, to mark the 100th which first began on May 13, 1917, when and I can still envision him today anniversary of the three shepherd children reported seeing During Christmas of 1996, I was gathering up the real roses we had in the Marian apparitions of the Virgin Mary. given the special Mass of Our Lady of Mass. This was a really special Mass for Fatima. The apparitions continued once a Guadalupe to prepare for at St. Luke me that no one really knows about. I am The pope, who month until Oct. 13, 1917, and later were the Evangelist School where I was a not sure why I selected Michael. It could accepted the invitation declared worthy of belief by the Catholic fourth‑grade teacher. have been Providence. made by President Church. This was the very first time I did this I recall vividly watching Michael’s Marcelo Rebelo de Father Carlos Cabecinhas, rector of the Mass, and I knew it was a very special mother watching and really enjoying Sousa and the bishops Fatima shrine, told Agencia Ecclesia, the one. that play about the story of Juan Diego Pope Francis of Portugal, “will go news agency of the Portuguese bishops’ That year, I had a student named and Our Lady of Guadalupe. on a pilgrimage to the Shrine of Our Lady conference, that the visit was a “cause for Michael Feeser. Michael was a very The following summer, Michael of Fatima from May 12-13,” the Vatican joy” for the shrine. † good boy, and only on occasion would died. To this day, I feel like Michael’s he challenge my level of patience. He mother received the most special gift to had a good sense of humor, but by watch her son at the Mass play the most no means was a natural actor. I really important part of Juan. contemplated who to choose to act the This Christmas memory has always “Furnace or Heat Pump” Our staff has over part of Juan Diego in the Mass. touched my heart. I could not have known 76 years of When I selected Michael, he said he what the summer was going to bring with rd Catholic just didn’t think he could do it and he the unexpected death, but somehow the 3 Annive Education 13 rsa thought others would be so much better Blessed Mother did, and she wanted that ry S at it. I reassured Michael that I really Mother to have this very special gift. ale wanted him to do this more than anyone C 76 YEARS rd a n else in the class. I told him he would do (Dr. Susan E. Israel is a member 133 Anniversary131th SaleAnniversary Sale t o ho ti lic Educa a great job. of St. John the Evangelist Parish in FREE It turns out Michael did do a Indianapolis.) † LABOR CALL TODAY! On the installation of a FURNACE, HEAT PUMP Memories of grandmothers, OR AIR CONDITIONER 639-1111 Cannot be combined with any other offer. Must be presented Still Locally Owned & Operated at time of order. EXPIRES: 1/6/17 THIELE 639-1111 WWW.CALLTHIELE.COM and a Ritter holiday tradition By Mark Hummer “that birds of a feather flock together, 133rd Anniversary Sale 133rd Anniversary Sale 133rd Anniversary Sale and we need to count our blessings.” 1/2 OFF FREE FURNACE OR HEAT PUMP My dad used to tell me “you are your She also said, “It is indeed true that what 10 YEAR WARRANTY TUNE-UP Grandma Hummer’s favorite,” and one goes around comes around, and blessed ON PARTS & LABOR SERVICE CALL 90% Furnace, Heat Pump or High Efficiency year when I was in Cub Scouts, I made are the pure of heart.” Save $45 with Paid Repair Air Conditioner. $59.95 her a candle holder for a Christmas For our family, the Christmas and Cannot be combined with any other offer. Must be Cannot be combined with any other offer. Cannot be combined with any other offer. presented at time of service. Must be presented at time of order. Must be presented at time of service. candle. A few years later, I made her a holiday season kicks off with the Cardinal EXPIRES: 1/6/17 M-F 8-4 EXPIRES: 1/6/17 EXPIRES: 1/6/17 M-F 8-4 pheasant in shop class. She kept both of THIELE 639-1111 THIELE 639-1111 THIELE 639-1111 Ritter annual Thanksgiving feast where those on her display case for everyone we help out. It is a huge event where to see right up until she passed away in volunteers feed staff, students and clergy, 1987. Everyone who came into contact and a full-course lunch is enjoyed by all. with her quickly agreed that she had the It is a truly joyous event. patience of a saint. My mother’s mother—my (Mark Hummer is a member of grandmother Aubell—used to like to say St. Christopher Parish in Indianapolis.) †

IS-5987722 A supplement to Catholic newspapers published by Catholic News Service, 3211 Fourth Street, N.E., Washington, D.C. 20017-1100. All contents are copyrighted © 2016 by FaithAlive! Catholic News Service. Christmas celebrates mystery of the Incarnation of the Word of God

By David Gibson Family’s] flight into Egypt, in which Jesus shares his people’s experience of The Christmas story is vibrant and exile, persecution and humiliation” (#65). fast-moving, replete with vivid images of It also would be good, Pope Francis angels celebrating an infant’s birth and continued, “to peer into those 30 long shepherds going “in haste” to find this years when Jesus earned his keep by the newborn child, astonished to discover him work of his hands, reciting the traditional “lying in the manger” (Lk 2:16). prayers and expressions of his people’s Christians happily listen to this story faith and coming to know that ancestral every year. Can you imagine Christmas faith until he made it bear fruit in the without it? mystery of the kingdom” (#65). Some may think it resembles children’s All of this, said the pope, “is the stories in certain ways, and sure, it is a mystery of Christmas” (#65). marvelous story for children. But there Notably, it exudes “the beauty of are compelling reasons for adults to hear family life,” filling families today with it again and again as well. hope (#65). Without the story of the birth in In fact, a point Pope Francis wanted to Bethlehem of an infant named Jesus— emphasize was that “Jesus’ own family, so without his birth as a real child needing full of grace and wisdom, did not appear a place to sleep peacefully, as all babies unusual or different from others. That is do—Christianity would be a different why people found it hard to acknowledge kind of faith. Jesus’ wisdom” (#182). The familiar scene of Jesus lying in a Living at St. Joseph’s side, Jesus manger, cared for by Mary and Joseph, apparently acquired valuable carpentry points beyond itself to remind believers skills. “During his days in the trade,” that this child is the Word of God, who Jesus the carpenter “doubtless would have “became flesh and made his dwelling been at home in any local ‘men’s shed,’ ” among us” (Jn 1:14). Australia’s Catholic bishops said in a fall Yes, he is “the Word of God.” 2016 statement. Yes, he is the Word “made flesh.” The message of the Incarnation A Nativity scene and Christmas tree decorate the Apostolic Palace at the Vatican on Dec. 15, 2014. The So the story of Christmas proclaims was not always welcomed by all who familiar scene points beyond itself to remind believers that Christ is the Word of God, who “became the incarnation of God’s Son. It reveals, considered themselves followers of Jesus. flesh and made his dwelling among us” (Jn 1:14). (CNS photo/Paul Haring) as the Second Vatican Council said, Some were convinced over the course that the Son of God “born of the Virgin of Christianity’s first few centuries that there is goodness in the world or in the life, and set out to bring all that goodness Mary” truly has been “made one of us, human flesh was unsuitable for God—that human body—a goodness that Jesus’ birth into the light. like us in all things except sin” (“Pastoral it would debase divinity for God’s Word as a child affirmed. So, while the Christmas story is about Constitution on the Church in the Modern to be made flesh. “The Son of God coming in our flesh Jesus, it really is about us too. World,” #22). Some doubted, therefore, that the Lord and sharing the joys and sorrows, the As Pope Francis wrote to Scalfari, “The incarnation of the Word in a could be divine or one in being with God successes and failures of our life … “Christian faith hinges on the Incarnation.” human family, in Nazareth, by its very the Father. Early Christians debated such testifies to the astonishing love of God for Because of the Incarnation, moreover, newness changed the history of the issues, and some battled over Christ’s all people and to the inestimable worth “each one of us is called to make Christ’s world,” Pope Francis wrote in “Amoris identity. that he sees in them,” Pope Francis wrote gaze and love his own.” Laetitia” (“The Joy of Love”), his There were those who found the in a 2013 letter to an Italian journalist Christian faith does not profess an apostolic exhortation on marriage and Incarnation a bitter pill to swallow. They named Eugenio Scalfari. “insurmountable separation between Jesus the family released earlier this year wondered how the divine Word of God The utterly charming story of Christmas and everyone else,” said the pope. Instead, (#65). could enter this world as fully as the birth is treasured by Christians for much “in him we are all called to be children “We need to enter into the mystery of Jesus informs us he did. more than its charm. It stirs thoughts of in the one Father,” and thus “brothers and of Jesus’ birth,” said the pope. We need, For Christianity’s early centuries the Incarnation of the Son of God and sisters to one another.” as well, “to contemplate the joy of witnessed many who, viewing our stimulates a conversation about incarnate the shepherds before the manger, the physical, earthly world as a place faith—the faith of believers today who find (David Gibson served on Catholic News adoration of the Magi and the [Holy deserving to be fled, did not believe that goodness in the world and in all human Service’s editorial staff for 37 years.) † The birth of Christ in Bethlehem pours light into a world marked by darkness By Effie Caldarola restfulness of night or a physical inability to see. Isaiah’s darkness calls to mind the darkness that can The first reading for midnight Mass on Christmas envelop one in the depths of depression—“the land Eve (Is 9:1-6) is one of the most beautiful and of gloom,” Isaiah terms it (Is 9:1). consoling passages from the prophet Isaiah. It is a darkness that has swallowed hope, a “The people who walked in darkness have seen darkness where one has forgotten the sun’s promise a great light; upon those who dwelt in the land of to rise. Walking in darkness is a terrifying metaphor. gloom a light has shone” (Is 9:1). Imagine traveling over unknown terrain in total The juxtaposition of darkness and light is a blackness, unsure of where your foot might land common literary and biblical theme. In the very next. beginning of Genesis, God sees that there is There are moments in every human life when “darkness over the abyss,” and by the third verse, he we are enshrouded by this kind of darkness. proclaims, “Let there be light” (Gen 1:2-3). Perhaps that’s why Isaiah’s Christmas reading is “God is light,” 1 John 1:5 tells us, “and in him, so powerfully inspiring and so conducive to quiet there is no darkness at all.” prayer. In a purely physical sense, darkness is not As Isaiah tells us of the great light that shines always a bad thing. Sometimes, in the still of night in this terrifying, gloomy darkness, he becomes when we most need rest, we embrace the darkness. almost ebullient with excitement and hope. Note Scientists tell us that our world suffers now from his descriptions of our coming Savior: “Wonder- “light pollution.” Very few places on Earth—at least Counselor, God-Hero, Father-Forever, Prince of in the developed world—are totally free from the Peace” (Is 9:5). glow of artificial light in the nighttime. His words take on the cadence of finest poetry But we welcome darkness only because we trust as he offers us abundant hope: “Every boot that that light is coming. We are confident of the dawn; tramped in battle, every cloak rolled in blood, will eager, if we rest well, for the sunrise. In Genesis, be burned as fuel for fire” (Is 9:4). God separates the night from the day, as if to give These are words of enormous promise. These are meaning to each by its co-dependence on the other. the words we breathe in, we shout, we proclaim as In Anthony Doerr’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, we experience the great light of Christ. All the Light We Cannot See, the author imagines “For a child is born to us,” Isaiah exults, “a son the life of a blind French girl during World War II. is given to us; upon his shoulder dominion rests” Palestinian Catholic Susan Abu Qubei lights a candle on Dec. 20, 2015, with Her inability to see light physically does nothing to (Is 9:5). her 3-year-old grandson, Luciano Barham, in the grotto of the Church of the diminish the enlightenment of her soul. Nativity, where tradition holds Christ was born in Bethlehem, West Bank. But the darkness of which Isaiah speaks is (Effie Caldarola is a freelance writer and a Christians believe the birth of Christ brought the light of God into a dark an entirely different kind of blackness than the columnist for Catholic News Service.) † world. (CNS photo/Debbie Hill) Page 12 The Criterion Friday, December 23, 2016 Perspectives From the Editor Emeritus/John F. Fink Faith and Family/Sean Gallagher The Incarnation: This is what we celebrate this Christmas Reflecting on “The heavenly Word proceeding forth, He was truly a human being with a human God, [Jesus] did not regard equality with childbirth can draw yet leaving not his Father’s side.” soul, but he didn’t stop being God. He had God something to be grasped. Rather, Readers might recognize that quotation both a divine nature and a human nature in he emptied himself, taking the form us closer to God as the beginning of one of St. Thomas the one person, Jesus. of a slave, coming in human likeness” Christmas carols and cards often Aquinas’ eucharistic The prologue of St. John’s Gospel (Phil 2:6-7). romanticize the birth of Christ. But it hymns. It is usually makes it clear that Jesus was God: “In the Then the hymn went on to allude to doesn’t take much sung on Holy beginning was the Word, and the Word was the reason for the Incarnation: “And consideration of what Thursday because it with God, and the Word was God” (Jn 1:1). found human in appearance, he humbled happened 2,000 years goes on to speak of To make it absolutely clear, John continued, himself, becoming obedient to death, even ago in Bethlehem Jesus’ actions at the “He was in the beginning with God. All death on a cross” (Phil 2:7-8). God took to realize that it was Last Supper. things came to be through him, and without on a human nature to die for us in order incredibly difficult for So why did I him nothing came to be” (Jn 1:2-3). that we might have eternal life. the Holy Family. choose that quotation Then, “And the Word became flesh and St. Peter wrote that the Word became Traveling over the for a Christmas made his dwelling among us” (Jn 1:14). flesh to make us “partakers of the divine often rugged territory column? Because it seems to briefly sum He didn’t just put on flesh like some sort nature” (2 Pt 1:4). St. Athanasius wrote, from Nazareth to up what we celebrate at Christmas: first of a disguise; he “became” flesh. He was “The Son of God became man so that we Bethlehem was the mystery of the Incarnation, and then a human being just like you and me, in might become God”—a poetic expression challenging then. It was especially so for the reason for the Incarnation. every way except sin. that, because of our communion with Mary, who was nine months pregnant, to In the mystery of the Incarnation, we This was the belief of Christians from Christ in his humanity, we now share in ride on a donkey in such a setting. believe that God the Son, the Second the beginning. About 40 years before the qualities of God. When they arrived in Bethlehem, the Person of the Blessed Trinity, actually John wrote his Gospel, St. Paul told the Back to St. Thomas Aquinas, where only place they could find to stay was in a humbled himself to become a human Galatians, “When the fullness of time had we began with his column: “The only- primitive stable, probably a nearby cave. being without ceasing to be God. come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, begotten Son of God, wanting to make us No comfort in giving birth there. That little baby who was born in born under the law” (Gal 4:4). sharers in his divinity, assumed our nature, Mary and Joseph were also separated Bethlehem more than 2,000 years ago was At around the same time, perhaps so that he, made man, might make men from family and friends, who would likely a human boy, but he was also God. during the mid-50s, Paul wrote to the gods.” have supported them in many ways had He wasn’t some kind of a mixture of Philippians, quoting an already existing That’s what we celebrate this Mary given birth in Nazareth. God and man, or part God and part man. hymn: “Though he was in the form of Christmas. † This seems a world away from our experiences of childbirth in the developed Cornucopia/Cynthia Dewes world, marked by professional medical competence and as much comfort given to mothers as possible. Still, if we consider This is the day the Lord has made, so rejoice and be glad child birth in our lives prayerfully, it’s No one seems to tire of hearing the Non-believers sense the importance of Good News, and Easter is its culmination. possible to make connections between Christmas story. Every year, we are told this story, and are awed by it. Even non- Both are joyous occasions and should be them and the experience of the Holy about the sweet baby Jesus’ arrival, not religious people love it. After all, who celebrated. Many customs have developed Family in Bethlehem and have this only in Scripture but doesn’t love a baby? Or knowing that in all countries to do just that. As strengthen our faith. in many versions, exceptional things will happen in his life, Americans, many of ours are English or On Christmas of 2005, my sister, including some that things that have affected the course of German in origin, but we are a nation of Kelly, her family and my parents were boggle the mind. Still, history every since? immigrants and keep gaining more ways at our house for dinner when my sister we can empathize Over many years and many to express our joy. announced to us that she was due to give with the poor young retellings, the Christmas story has been In our family we enjoy the traditional birth to her and her husband’s second couple compelled by embellished occasionally. We’ve had Christmas fun, reading ‘Twas the Night child the following June. governmental edict drummer boys and jugglers and red- Before Christmas and A Christmas Carol, My wife Cindy was nine months to make a dangerous nosed reindeer and who-knows-what watching movies such as It’s a Wonderful pregnant at the time with our second journey across thrown into it to add new interest. Life and A Christmas Story so many times child, Raphael. With tears in her eyes, she country. But in the end, it’s still the story of that we know the dialogue by heart, and immediately got up from her seat to give The wife is heavily pregnant, Beginning, of Promise, of Hope. singing Christmas carols. Kelly a hug and share their joy together. uncomfortable at best, being jogged along With the birth of Christ comes the We wrap gifts for those we love and The moment was reminiscent of the on a donkey led by her weary husband. possibility of salvation and release from send cheery messages to family, friends happiness that Mary and her kinswoman The couple is also burdened with the the sins of being human. Jesus comes to and acquaintances. It’s a time to share Elizabeth must have shared when Mary mysterious knowledge that their baby was bring us the Good News, and to show us joy. We take the kids to tell Santa what visited her when both were expecting the conceived by divine rather than human how to live by its tenets. His 33 years on they want for Christmas, and then try to births of their miraculous children. love, and that he is destined to fulfill Earth as a man gives us the example of answer their requests or think of a way Twelve days later on Jan. 6, it was time the Messianic prophesy of the Jewish how to live so as to gain eternal life with to tell them that Santa couldn’t oblige for me to drive Cindy to our hospital to religion. him in heaven. We can hope to see God. them. give birth. It was about a 25-minute drive Naturally, as another result of being Jesus teaches us in parables which Most important of all, we attend the over a crowded city street, marked at that poor and humble, they can’t find a enable us to understand profound truths. Christmas Mass and are inspired by its time of the year by many potholes. shelter for the night and must sleep on We learn that we must always think of the story all over again. Indeed, this is the day I know that every time we hit one, the the hay in a stable with the animals. good of others before ourselves, that we the Lord has made. Let us rejoice and be pain Cindy was already experiencing in While there, the young mother gives must be generous and kind and helpful. glad in it. her contractions only increased. Could it birth to a baby boy, and then the wonder It’s easy to rattle off a list of virtues, but have been something like the discomfort begins. Visitors from the highborn three harder to practice them, but Jesus shows (Cynthia Dewes, a member of St. Paul Mary endured as she rode on a donkey on kings to the lowly shepherds arrive to us how. the Apostle Parish in Greencastle, is a the mountainous path to Bethlehem? pay homage to Jesus. Christmas is the beginning of our regular columnist for The Criterion.) † The pain of Cindy’s labor came to a relatively quick end, though, when she Emmaus Walk/Debra Tomaselli gave birth to Raphael about an hour after our arrival at our hospital. Make time beyond Christmas to stay in touch with God When that happened, something of what Jesus told his disciples on the night Although I’m a writer, I never send expressed sadness about that, closing with chorus of lights shimmering from nearby before he died was renewed in our own Christmas letters describing the family the following statement: Please stay in rooftops. Please stay in touch, I hear our experience. He knew they were deeply events of the past year. touch, I think of you so often. God say, I think of you so often. troubled by the sense of foreboding that Rather, I struggle It might as well have been penned by Later, I open my Bible and study the marked the Last Supper. with ticking the hand of God himself. birth of Christ in the first chapter of Luke. So Jesus told them, “When a woman deadlines counting He thought of us over 2,000 years The account captures a sense of joy and is in labor, she is in anguish because her the days awaiting my ago when he sent his Son to redeem the expectation, excitement and wonder. As hour has arrived; but when she has given Christmas column. world. He thought of us while we were I begin to read and pray, my focus shifts. birth to a child, she no longer remembers Tossing and turning, yet in our mother’s womb. He thinks of I ponder Mary and Joseph’s trust in God the pain because of her joy that a child I wonder: Who am I us today, in each moment of our lives, in and the unassuming beginnings of his has been born into the world. to write about such a every circumstance of our day. plan of salvation. “So you also are now in anguish. But miraculous occasion? The question is: Do we stay in touch? As I contemplate the story, the endless I will see you again, and your hearts will How can I capture the In these days leading to Christmas, as “to do” list loses its importance. Instead, rejoice, and no one will take your joy glory of the season? I crawl in traffic snarls around shopping the Christ Child arrives in the manger away from you” (Jn 16:21-22). What can I say that hasn’t been said? centers, race from department stores to of my heart, delivering harmony and Could it be that, sometime as he was Lord, help me. specialty shops, and spend hours online stillness, tranquility and goodwill. growing up, Mary told Jesus about the But, just as Christ was born in a making holiday purchases, I wonder if This Christmas, may you discover difficult circumstances of his birth and humble manger, it is in the most ordinary my preparations have been more about peaceful joys, quiet moments and the that he then drew on that reality to give events of our lives that our Lord appears consumerism than the One whose birth everlasting love of Christ. Born in humble comfort to and strengthen the faith of his and, for me, that’s just how the following we are to celebrate. surroundings, his presence transcends disciples in their time of need? story came alive. There are meals to be planned, all ages and reaches into our times, Childbirth is an intense and meaning- Inspiration appeared in the form of a parties to attend and gifts to be our activities and our hearts. Christ is laden experience in the human condition. simple e-mail, which I received one recent wrapped. The “to-do” list is long. I eternally present to us, God’s gift to all That was true for Christ’s birth in Christmas season. At the time, I wrote stop at the local mall, and suddenly, mankind. Bethlehem and the birth of all of us. this story. With my fervent prayers, I now everything changes. And let’s promise to stay in touch. There are other powerful moments share it with you: Unexpectedly, I hear resilient trumpets in every human life. Receive the grace I had just finished reading an e-mail squeal ‘Joy to the World’ amidst tinkling (Debra Tomaselli writes from Altamonte that God offers us to see those defining from a dear friend named Ann. Our Salvation Army bells. A fellow shopper Springs, Florida. She can be reached at experiences as pathways to come closer to paths hadn’t crossed in months, and Ann extends a courtesy, and dusk delivers a [email protected].) † him at Christmas and all through the year. † The Criterion Friday, December 23, 2016 Page 13

Solemnity of the Nativity of the Lord/Christmas/Msgr. Owen Campion The Sunday Readings Daily Readings Monday, December 26 Friday, December 30 Sunday, December 25, 2016 St. Stephen, the first martyr The Holy Family of Jesus, • Isaiah 52:7-10 Acts 6:8-10; 7:54-59 Mary and Joseph • Hebrews 1:1-6 Psalm 31:3cd-4, 6-8b, 16bc, 17 Sirach 3:2-6, 12-14 • John 1:1-18 Matthew 10:17-22 or Colossians 3:12-21 or Colossians 3:12-17 Tuesday, December 27 The Church’s liturgy includes several Jesus as Son of God, the true and full Psalm 128:1-5 Masses for Christmas. These readings are reflection of the Father. St. John, Apostle and evangelist Matthew 2:13-15, 19-23 those assigned for Mass during the day. In the third reading, the Church 1 John 1:1-4 The third section presents the first 18 verses of the Gospel Psalm 97:1-2, 5-6, 11-12 Saturday, December 31 of Isaiah supplies of St. John. Each of the four Gospels has John 20:1a, 2-8 Seventh Day within the Octave the first reading. its own literary majesty and particular, of the Nativity of the Lord To understand the inspired insight into the reality of God Wednesday, December 28 reading, it helps to be and salvation. But none outdoes John St. Sylvester I, pope aware of the historical for depth or eloquence. Few passages, if The Holy Innocents, martyrs 1 John 2:18-21 context surrounding any, in the long Gospel of John outdo the 1 John 1:5-2:2 Psalm 96:1-2, 11-13 the composition of glory of these first 18 verses. Psalm 124:2-5, 7b-8 John 1:1-18 this part of Isaiah. These verses, proclaimed in this Mass, Matthew 2:13-18 God’s Chosen People are magnificent because of the soaring Sunday, January 1 had suffered much in and profound sense they convey in Thursday, December 29 Solemnity of Mary, the Holy the previous century. Their land, regarded relating the person and mission of Jesus. Fifth Day within the Octave by the devout as sacred itself because He is God’s wondrous gift to humankind, Mother of God God had given it to the people, had been given in God’s eternal and unending of the Nativity of the Lord Octave Day of the Nativity of conquered by invading pagans and often love. He reigns in a realm far beyond the St. Thomas Becket, bishop the Lord devastated. human ability to comprehend. and martyr Numbers 6:22-27 In addition, all the turmoil had In Jesus, all existence has meaning, 1 John 2:3-11 Psalm 67:2-3, 5-6, 8 destroyed the social structure. Political order, purpose, and a future. He is the Psalm 96:1-3, 5-6 independence was gone. Untold numbers glory of God, living for and among Galatians 4:4-7 of people were killed. Many survivors humans. He is the light of the world. He Luke 2:22-35 Luke 2:16-21 were themselves taken to Babylon, the is eternal. He is life. He is everything. capital of their Babylonian Empire, where See DAILY READINGS, page 16 they languished for four generations, far Reflection from their homeland and compelled to The key to deciphering these readings, live in an atmosphere greatly unfriendly and Christmas itself, is in admitting that Question Corner/Fr. Kenneth Doyle to their religion, scornful of all that they at the birth of Jesus, and in the reality of had known. Jesus, circumstances and powers utterly Military chaplains can lead ecumenical At long last, this exile ended, but beyond our human capacity of knowledge returning to the Holy Land was a hollow occurred. services but not celebrate most sacraments achievement. The land was poor and Human life can be difficult. Our times unproductive. Misery reigned. testify to this fact, with all the terror and I have long been a fan of the 861.2 provides that “in a case of necessity For much of this time, this misery had agony of so many people. Yet relief is at Qtelevision series “M.A.S.H.” that took any person with the right intention” may been defined in terms of personal want hand if we seize the opportunity. place during the Korean War. In a couple confer the sacrament of baptism licitly. and abuse. Indeed, deprivation and want The opportunity is to turn to God. He of the episodes, the So if a serviceman dying on the were everywhere. The prophets, such provides this opportunity marvelously priest on the show battlefield wanted to be baptized a as Isaiah, saw deprivation in another and mercifully by giving us, as our own, is asked by a soldier Catholic, a member of the clergy of any dimension, gnawing want within the Jesus, the Son of God. if he can perform a denomination (or a layperson, for that human heart for peace, hope, and a sense We thus obviously, appropriately, Methodist, a Jewish or matter) could do so by pouring the water of strength and worth, the result from sin. logically celebrate the birth of Jesus. a Presbyterian service and saying the words of baptism. This piercing want is not inevitable. He is human, the son of Mary. Son of for him. It is relieved by grasping the reality of God, Jesus came to us as one of us. In each case, the A discussion that is common among the almighty God of Israel, the source He reconciled us with God, repairing a priest answers that he Q the various members of my parish of all peace, joy and hope, and by living relationship broken by human sin. is allowed to perform is whether the faithful should use the accordingly. Only this matters. So, with the ancient Hebrew prophets, services for all “orans” posture during the Our Father. For its second reading, the Church we can be hopeful and assured. Our denominations. From what I gather, this I remember being instructed several offers a passage from the Epistle to the eternal fate is guaranteed, if we take the type of service was also offered during years ago that we were to start stretching Hebrews. This epistle is a marvelous opportunity to accept it. In Christ, we can World War II as well. out our hands while praying the Lord’s revelation of God as the Trinity, and of live, truly, now and eternally. † My question is this: Were ministers Prayer at Mass. I felt odd doing this at of all faiths permitted to celebrate first, but decided that I needed to follow Mass, distribute Communion and hear along as instructed. My Journey to God confessions of Catholic servicemen Years later, I noticed that a religious during those battlefield and hospital-stay sister and deacon serving in the parish did conditions? (Minnesota) not observe this. So are we supposed to stretch out our hands during this prayer or In wartime situations, it has always not? (Missouri) First Christmas Abeen common to have interfaith services offered by chaplains of various The U.S. Conference of Catholic religious denominations. ABishops is quite concise on the issue, in Bethlehem Needless to say, not every religion can saying in its guidelines that “no position By Cathy Lamperski Dearing supply a member of the clergy for every is prescribed in the Roman Missal for military outpost. So regularly, for centuries, an assembly gesture during the Lord’s clergy have presided at services— Prayer.” There is simply no “rule” or I meditated for some time open to members of all religions or of guideline. On the Madonna and Child icon none—consisting of scriptural readings, As you say, though, it has become Specifically their gaze “sermonettes,” words of spiritual comfort common in some congregations for the Jesus’ eyes as if to say and prayers of blessing. faithful to adopt the “orans” posture— “Look at her!” To your specific question, though, with hands extended to the side and Mary’s eyes as if to say ministers of other faiths have never been facing up or out. The priest, by contrast, “Look at Him!” permitted to celebrate Mass or hear the is directed specifically in the rubrics to A Child making it all about confessions of Catholic servicemen and adopt the “orans” posture during the Our His mother women. The Church’s Code of Canon Father. A mother making it all about Law explains that “the minister who Some liturgists have pointed to this is able to confect the sacrament of the as a bit of an anomaly: Generally, the her Son Eucharist in the person of Christ is a celebrant extends his hands during the First Christmas validly ordained priest alone” (#900.1). parts of the Mass when he is praying In Bethlehem Likewise, another provision notes aloud and alone, on behalf of the that “a priest alone is the minister of congregation. During the Our Father, he is This Christmas the sacrament of penance” (#965), and praying not on behalf of the congregation May we look at Mary and Jesus Canon 1003 stipulates that “every priest but along with them—as in the Gloria and And see and a priest alone validly administers the the creed, when his hands are joined. anointing of the sick.” Perhaps future liturgical guidelines will Of course—and this happens clarify this. regularly—clergy of any faith may offer (Cathy Lamperski Dearing is a member of St. Barnabas Parish in Indianapolis. prayers of blessing and words of comfort (Questions may be sent to Father Kenneth The photo of this icon, found online at goo.gl/NWf2LJ, depicts “Our Lady of over a sick or dying Catholic, but they Doyle at [email protected] and Tenderness.” It is also known as “The Virgin of Vladimir,” based on its one-time may not absolve or anoint. 30 Columbia Circle Drive, Albany, N.Y., location in Vladimir, Russia. ) An exception to this sacramental 12203.) † strictness comes with baptism: Canon Page 14 The Criterion Friday, December 23, 2016

Rest in peace Please submit in writing to our Dec. 5. Father of Karen Lingo. office by 10 a.m. Thursday Brother of Mary Ann Wilhelm before the week of publication; and Leon Firsich. Grandfather be sure to state date of death. of three. Great-grandfather of Obituaries of archdiocesan three. priests serving our archdiocese FIX, Geraldine, 92, St. Joseph, are listed elsewhere in Shelbyville, Dec. 5. Mother of The Criterion. Order priests Lori Dagley. Grandmother of and religious sisters and three. brothers are included here, unless they are natives of the FRITSCH, Edward G., 92, archdiocese or have other St. Barnabas, Indianapolis, connec­tions to it; those are Dec. 13. Father of Judy separate obituaries on this Cleland, Margie Gillespie, page. Betty McKinley, Barbara Turk and Ted Fritsch. Brother of Francis Fritsch. Grandfather of BEDEL, John J., 89, St. Mary, 15. Great-grandfather of 13. Greensburg, Dec. 11. Husband of Thelma Bedel. Father of HARGADON, Donald J., Annette Faust, Rose Remmler, 98, St. Luke the Evangelist, Margie Williams, Vernon and Indianapolis, Dec. 6. Father Victor Bedel. Brother of Lou of Cindy and Scott Hargadon. Bedel. Grandfather of 11. Grandfather of four. Great-grandfather of eight. HELLINGER, Martin F., BUCKHORN, Florence R., Jr., 85, St. Anthony of Padua, 96, St. Gabriel, Indianapolis, Clarksville, Dec. 8. Husband Dec. 6. Mother of Barbara of Carol Hellinger. Father of Harnedy and Beverly Terri Hibbs, Lisa Leister, Gina 80th birthday Buckhorn. Grandmother of Ober and David Hellinger. two. Great-grandmother of four. Brother of Norma and Sylvia Pope Francis accepts a birthday cake from chefs during his general audience in Paul V Hall at the Vatican on Dec. 14. The pope Great-great grandmother of one. Crowe, Janice Groce, Barbara turned 80 on Dec. 17. (CNS photo/L’Osservatore Romano) Young, Butch and Pete CHANEY, Elizabeth Hellinger. Grandfather of 17. (Agresta), 93, St. Mark the Great-grandfather of 15. Rode. Brother of Calvin, Glen Grandmother of seven. Rose. Father of Jayden, Huntyr Torrella. Son of Hilda Torrella. Evangelist, Indianapolis, and Guy McKinley. Great-grandmother of five. and Jaeger Rose. Son of James Brother of Roxann Tanner, Dec. 7. Mother of Dennis, KUNTZ, Emil A., 85, MUELLER, Marybeth, 95, PAGE, Robert E., 87, and Rickie Rose. Grandson of Regina and Carlos Torrella. Gregory and Robert Chaney. Holy Family, Oldenburg, St. Roch, Indianapolis, Nov. 28. Our Lady of the Greenwood, Alden Rose. Brother of James Grandfather of six. Sister of Mary Ann Amore. Dec. 13. Husband of Patricia Mother of Joseph and Robert Greenwood, Dec. 7. Husband Rose. Grandmother of five. Great- Kuntz. Father of Kathryn UPANO, Emerito F., 76, Mueller. Grandmother of six. of Marcia Page. Father of SMITH, Vicki J., 55, St. Mary, grandmother of one. Dietz, Mary Pat Frey, Carol St. Roch, Indianapolis, Lecher, Jim, Stephen and Great-grandmother of 15. Deborah Rademacher, Brian, Greensburg, Nov. 26. Mother of Nov. 23. Husband of Matilde DOWNS, Ora S., Jr., 89, William Kuntz. Brother of Great-great-grandmother of Jeffrey, Michael and Scott Sadie, Shay and Sydney Smith. Upano. Father of Jocelyn, Christ the King, Indianapolis, Luella Bogenschutz and Ralph three. Page. Grandfather of 13. Daughter of Greta Solgere. Katherine, Maria, Nicole, Dec. 6. Husband of Jacqueline Kuntz. Grandfather of 16. MURPHY, James L., Sr., 91, Great-grandfather of five. Sister of Gary and Scott Edilberto and Emerito, Jr. Downs. Father of Mary Watt, Great-grandfather of four. Christ the King, Indianapolis, ROESCH, Patty L., 89, Solgere. Upano. Brother of Nunilon Christopher, Matthew, Michael, MCKINLEY, Michael D., Dec. 1. Father of Mary Christ the King, Indianapolis, TODD, Fern L., 91, St. Mary, Hermogenes, Eleanor Isada Ora III, Timothy and Thomas 41, St. Jude, Indianapolis, Newkirk, Dan, James and Dec. 5. Mother of Barbara Greensburg, Dec. 6. Aunt of and Violeta Reyes. Downs. Brother of Jack and Dec. 10. Husband of Michelle John Murphy. Brother of Ann Roesch-Johnson, Jane, Margaret several. Paul Downs. Grandfather of 23. VANMETER, Catherine McKinley. Father of Madyson Bucholz. Grandfather of 10. and John Roesch. Grandmother Great-grandfather of 34. TORRELLA, Rene J., 76, D., 63, St. Vincent de Paul, Salisbury, Hayden and James NELSON, Shirley, 89, of 11. Great-grandmother of St. Malachy, Brownsburg, Bedford, Dec. 7. Mother of FIRSICH, James J., 93, McKinley. Son of Joan St. Pius X, Indianapolis, nine. Nov. 2. Husband of Marlene Jamie Chastain and Terri St. Gabriel, Connersville, McKinley. Grandson of Irena Dec. 10. Mother of Ann ROSE, Jason A., 44, Torrella. Father of Abigail Keith. Daughter of Lucille Hartman, Mary Sweeney, St. Gabriel, Connersville, Chauhan, Carrie McCord, Pearson. Grandmother of nine. Bill and Don Nelson. Dec. 9. Husband of Bettina Tracy Snell and Andrew Great-grandmother of 19. †

CONFERENCE The gathering ended with a presentation by Society of continued from page 10 Our Lady of the Trinity Father James Blount, a popular speaker and preacher. The conference also occurred on the day before As men were lined up in the back of the hall to the conclusion of the Holy Year of Mercy, and Father experience God’s forgiveness in the sacrament of Richards reminded his listeners of the importance of penance—as they were during much of the daylong mercy in their lives. conference—Father Blount reminded all who could hear “The definition of mercy is giving something good to him of the power of God’s mercy. someone who doesn’t deserve it,” he said. “Who is that, “We are all broken,” he said. “We’re all sinners. Put first of all? Us. We don’t deserve it. And so [Christ] gives that behind you. When God forgives your sins, he throws us mercy. … We need to be men of forgiveness.” them into the deepest part of the ocean, the ocean of In the afternoon session, Father Ronan Murphy, a mercy. He throws them into the ocean and then he puts up priest of the Camden, N.J., Diocese and a native of a sign that says, ‘No fishing allowed.’ ” Ireland, spoke about the power of different stars in the Following up on the procession and Mass, Father universe and how astronomers had discovered the Pistol Blount recalled the power the Eucharist can have in the Star, which is believed to be the strongest star in the lives of the faithful. Milky Way. “If you have a quandary in your life, something It gives out more energy in six seconds than the sun, that you don’t know the answer to, Jesus is waiting for which Earth orbits, gives out in a year. you in the Eucharist,” he said. “It’s not for no reason “The stars differ in magnitude,” Father Murphy said. that saints call it the bread of the strong. It’s not only “Some clearly excel others. And so, too, the spiritual stars. at Mass that we receive the Lord in Communion, but “Of all the spiritual stars, one outshines them all, also in adoration. In adoration, there are many graces namely, Our Lady. And we call her, ‘the Star of the Sea.’ present.” Not only does she outshine them all, but she is the queen Gorsage was happy to attend the conference with four of all the other spiritual stars, … and the angels and the of his five sons. saints.” “It’s our faith,” he said. “Being a parent, I’m a first Father Murphy encouraged men to call upon the saints, educator of my children. It’s an example that I need to especially Mary through praying the rosary, in their daily provide them. It’s not just an event. This is our life. Our lives. faith is our life.” †

If you are a victim of Online Lay Ministry Formation Report sexual misconduct by a person ministering on behalf of the The Archdiocese of Indianapolis has partnered with the sexual Church, or if you know of anyone University of Notre Dame and Catholic Distance University (CDU) who has been a victim of to offer not-for-credit online theology classes: misconduct such misconduct, please contact the archdiocesan victim • Courses on the Catechism of the Catholic Church from CDU now assistance coordinator: • All 12 classes for a Certificate in Lay Ministry available online • 20% discount for all employees, volunteers, and parishioners Carla Hill, Archdiocese of Indianapolis, • Employees also receive reimbursement upon course completion P.O. Box 1410, Indianapolis, Indiana 46206-1410 For more information, please log on to 317-236-1548 or 800-382-9836, ext. 1548 www.archindy.org/layministry [email protected] The Criterion Friday, December 23, 2016 Page 15 Shrinking the Monster helps others, author heal from child abuse

By Natalie Hoefer Rather, it serves the additional purpose expressing concern that more concrete of raising awareness and prevention of the actions need to be taken. In the 1950’s, Norbert Krapf was lifelong pain and damage caused by child Second is the process of how Krapf sexually abused—along with scores of abuse, wounds that Krapf reveals can be wrote Catholic Boy Blues as a means other boys—by a priest of the Evansville, managed but never fully heal, wounds that of his own healing, and to speak for the Ind., Diocese who was loved and can be reopened at any time. voices of all children who have suffered respected by the community. After five The book has a “ ‘round the kitchen abuse at the hands of an authority figure. decades of silence, Krapf—a retired table” feel, like that of a friend sharing He shares how, once the vein of pain professor, author his heart with the reader over coffee in was tapped, the poetry exploded in the and award-winning cozy quarters. That feel comes from the surprising form of various voices—the former Indiana Poet level of honesty and openness with which boy who was hurt, the man who carried Laureate—confronted Krapf writes. the child within him, a helpful mentor the monster of his In the spirit of revealing the depth named Mr. Blues, and eventually the past both by outing of the pain and the balm of healing voice of the priest himself. the then-deceased from sexual abuse, he takes the reader The reader also learns of the process priest to the bishop through his eight-year journey from of publishing the poetry book—the and, in 2012, the point of knowing his story must be struggles, the re-opening of wounds, and publishing a book of told, through the pain of facing “the the friends who brought healing to the Norbert Krapf poems called Catholic monster” of his past after 50 years of journey, including his wife Katherine, his Boy Blues to help silence, to the struggles and healing former pastor Father Michael O’Mara and himself and other victims heal. process of writing and publishing Cardinal Joseph W. Tobin. This year, Krapf published Shrinking Catholic Boy Blues—which is helpful For readers who are victims of child says Krapf, “I was making an effort to the Monster: Healing the Wounds of Our but not necessary to have read in order abuse, look for advice throughout the see him not simply as a moral monster, Abuse. In Krapf’s own words, the book to follow the journey of Shrinking the book on how to shrink your own monster. but as a human being who had serious is a “prose memoir about the experience Monster. Krapf shares words of his counselor that problems and perhaps suffered from an of writing those poems, with an emphasis Through an accessible story-telling proved life-changing for him, such as, uncontrollable illness.” on the process of my recovery from the style, several processes come to light in “If you remain angry at your abuser, it Through 236 pages divided into two abuse.” That experience, as outlined in the the memoir. means he still controls you”; “If you keep parts and 32 chapters, Shrinking the book, was a journey of pain, struggles, First are the actual steps Krapf took the monster silent inside of you, it could Monster is one more effort by Krapf to victories and healing. in making his abuse known to the bishop grow bigger and bigger until it starts to contribute his “small part in the larger Before reviewing the book, I’d like to of Evansville. Through several chapters, eat you alive,” and “Every time survivors collective effort to prevent child abuse.” address an important question: Why? Why interwoven with the struggles abusers face tell anyone we trust something about our Readers, prepare to hurt over the truth, write on such a dark, painful topic that in confronting their past, can be found abuse, we heal just a little.” gain insight into ecclesial and personal many would, as he admits, rather not read the wheels that were set in motion at He also shares what he has learned processes of dealing with the devastating about? the ecclesial level once the sexual abuse about forgiveness—a step that takes a long effects of child abuse, and rejoice in The answer is two-fold. First, as Krapf by the priest was officially confirmed. time for victims of child abuse, he admits. each small victory in Krapf’s effort to reiterates at several points, the book is Krapf acknowledges gratitude for efforts “In wondering if someone had abused help others and himself in shrinking the to help other victims of child abuse heal, made from the local level to Pope Francis [my priest abuser], in considering monsters of abuse. and to further his own healing. But that in helping victims of priest abuse and whether he had been victimized and doesn’t mean the book is only for victims. addressing the crime of such “trusted wondering if he therefore victimized (Natalie Hoefer is a reporter for shepherds,” while at the same time me and many others as a consequence,” The Criterion.) † Former Hispanic Ministry coordinator named director of Intercultural Ministry By Natalie Hoefer we are as a Church and not so much just Castellanos hopes to help build a a good experience and not just a clash of cultures.” sense of “cultural competency” in the cultures?” Oscar Castellanos, former archdiocesan Some of the new events he would archdiocese. Deacon Michael Braun, director of the Hispanic Ministry coordinator, assumed like to implement include a Pentecost “That’s something that both cultures Secretariat for Pastoral Ministries—the the role of director of the Office of concert, an ethnic dinner gathering and an need to do to come together before we umbrella under which the Intercultural Intercultural Ministry intercultural children’s Mass. can even pray together sometimes,” he Ministry Office resides—says that since in November. Castellanos, a member of Our Lady says. “I think for the folks in the pews, joining the archdiocese as coordinator He sees the role as of the Greenwood Parish in Greenwood, it’s important to recognize that it doesn’t of Hispanic Ministry about a year ago, that of “facilitating sees intercultural ministry as vital to all come by nature. There needs to be some “Oscar has demonstrated commitment to an encounter, a Catholics, not just those of various ethnic type of sharing, some type of listening, servant leadership in organizing ministries faith experience, backgrounds, “because as Catholics we before we can really approach the hot and programs for Hispanic/Latino more than actually believe that culture is the first way you issues on the table, or even the easy communities. directing, … hear the Gospel. ones. “His compassion for peoples of all someone that is “Anyone who comes from a different “A lot of people think, ‘Oh, let’s do ethnicities shines through in his ministry going to facilitate background, we need to acknowledge and a bilingual Mass.’ People don’t realize to parishes who are striving to develop Oscar Castellanos the encounters, the embrace that and support that. A lot of that it’s very difficult to put together a unity in diversity. His experience and celebrations and times we think it’s the tip of the iceberg, good bilingual Mass. You have to have competence working in these settings especially the dialogue” among those that the culture is just food, music, people that not only know liturgy, but make him an excellent choice to serve of other cultures in the archdiocese, vestments and language. also know about culture. How do we as director of the Intercultural Ministries represented by the Asian/Pacific “But really it’s what underneath plan in a good way so that everyone has Office.” † Islander, African-American, French- that iceberg—values, notions of speaking and Hispanic ministries. leadership, understanding the vision of “It’s not just going to [a group] and the Church you were brought up in— of ways—the same faith, the same Mass helping them along—it’s empowering those elements of culture that are really INTERCULTURAL but different expressions.” people and expanding that notion of who important.” continued from page 2 Throughout central and southern Indiana, Mass in Spanish is celebrated could communicate anything to his in 19 parishes in 12 cities and towns, as predecessors, Castellanos says he would well as in Vietnamese in Bloomington Novena say “thank you for your perseverance and and Indianapolis, and also in French and Classified Directory UNFAILING NOVENA TO saying ‘yes’ to this particular ministry. Korean in the capital city. ST. JOSEPH For information about rates for classified advertising, call (317) 236-1454. You planted the seed so that others could And more cultural voices can be heard Glorious St. Joseph, foster-father continue the harvesting.” on archdiocesan office boards, another and protector of Jesus Christ! His vision for the ministry is to have goal of the Intercultural Ministry—not Vacation Rental For Sale To you I raise my heart and my hands to implore your powerful “more communities embracing diversity, just to minister to Catholics of other BEACHFRONT CONDO, intercession. Please obtain for and opening their doors and hearts to cultures, but to bring those voices to Maderia Beach, Fl., 2BR/2BA, ANGELS’ CORNER me from the kind heart of Jesus pool & 25ft balcony overlooking RELIGIOUS GIFT SHOP is FOR SALE other ways of thinking, organizing, all aspects of the Church in central and the help and graces necessary the Gulf of Mexico. Meet Indpls. … this well established and needed celebrating and praying. southern Indiana. for my spiritual and temporal owner. See photos, maps. shop includes: Inventory, Building, welfare. I ask particularly for “I see this ministry promoting Such intercultural participation is Call Robin at 317-506-8516. Fixtures, Goodwill and Training. IF INTERESTED PLEASE CONTACT the grace of a happy death and intercultural competency through simply practical, says Pimentel-Gannon. Rosaries GREG at Ph# 317-784-0890 the special favor I now implore awareness, knowledge and skills that “Our world and this country are (REQUEST). Guardian of the would allow our offices, schools and changing,” she says. “The majority Word Incarnate, I feel animated parishes to be enculturated in a Church will be the minority, and in some cases Home Improvement with confidence that your prayers in my behalf will graciously that is more diverse than ever.” already is. The more readily you are be heard before the throne of That vision falls in line with what first open to this, the more you’re going Brother’s God. (REQUEST). Oh gracious motivated Father Taylor in creating the to enjoy the journey. It’s like fighting Construction St. Joseph, through the love you ministry. something that we have no control over, Chimney’s cleaned & inspected $99.00 bear to Jesus Christ, and for the glory of His Name PLEASE “My idea was to strengthen the but rather being able to appreciate that • Complete Chimney HEAR MY PRAYERS AND archdiocese so that [these cultural groups] we’re all God’s creation.” & Furnace Work OBTAIN MY PETITION. can come to the table and be part of She likens intercultural efforts in the • Brick & Concrete Specialist PRAY FOR 9 DAYS AND the archdiocese along with the majority Church to “bringing together a prism • Fencing & Carpentry Work PUBLISH. MAKE SURE YOU community and be able to contribute just where no one light or color is better than REALLY WANT WHAT YOU St. Lawrence Parishioner as much,” he says. the other. Each one alone is brilliant, but ASK BECAUSE IT HAS NEVER “I think the impact in the archdiocese together it makes a phenomenal look and BEEN KNOW TO FAIL. TRUST ADVERTISE IN Serving the Eastside since 1976 is that a variety of voices have been added presence and feel. 5066 E. Michigan Street THAT YOUR PRAYERS WILL The Criterion BE ANSWERED. to the picture. People have been able to “It’s a richer experience for Call 317-236-1454 317 501-4830 C.M.F. witness the liturgy expressed in a variety everybody.” † Page 16 The Criterion Friday, December 23, 2016 Daily Readings continued from page 13 Monday, January 2 St. Basil the Great, bishop and doctor of the Church St. Gregory Nazianzen, bishop and doctor of the Church 1 John 2:22-28 Psalm 98:1-4 John 1:19-28 Tuesday, January 3 The Most Holy Name of Jesus 1 John 2:29-3:6 Psalm 98:1, 3c-4, 5-6 John 1:29-34 Wednesday, January 4 St. Elizabeth Ann Seton, religious 1 John 3:7-10 Psalm 98:1, 7-9 John 1:35-42 Thursday, January 5 Mary and the Christ Child are depicted in this icon by Ayman Fayez, who is exhibiting his artwork at the Sheen Center for Thought & Culture in New York City through Jan. 1. The feast of the Nativity of Christ, a holy day of obligation, is celebrated on Dec. 25. (CNS photo/Gregory A. Shemitz) St. John Neumann, bishop 1 John 3:11-21 Sunday, January 8 Tuesday, January 10 Friday, January 13 Psalm 100:1b-5 The Epiphany of the Lord Hebrews 2:5-12 St. Hilary, bishop and doctor of John 1:43-51 Isaiah 60:1-6 Psalm 8:2ab, 5-9 the Church Friday, January 6 Psalm 72:1-2, 7-8, 10-13 Mark 1:21-28 Hebrews 4:1-5, 11 St. Andre Bessette, religious Ephesians 3:2-3a, 5-6 Psalm 78:3, 4bc, 6c-8 1 John 5:5-13 Matthew 2:1-12 Wednesday, January 11 Mark 2:1-12 Hebrews 2:14-18 Psalm 147:12-15, 19-20 Saturday, January 14 Monday, January 9 Psalm 105:1-4, 6-9 Mark 1:7-11 Hebrews 4:12-16 The Baptism of the Lord Mark 1:29-39 or Luke 3:23-28 Psalm 19:8-10 Isaiah 42:1-4, 6-7 or Luke 3:23, 31-34, 36, 38 Mark 2:13-17 or Acts 10:34-38 Thursday, January 12 Saturday, January 7 Psalm 29:1-2, 3-4, 9-10 Hebrews 3:7-14 Sunday, January 15 St. Raymond of Penyafort, priest Matthew 3:13-17 Psalm 95:6-7c, 8-11 Second Sunday in Ordinary Time 1 John 5:14-21 Mark 1:40-45 Isaiah 49:3, 5-6 Psalm 149:1-6a, 9b Psalm 40:2, 4, 7-10 John 2:1-11 1 Corinthians 1:1-3 John 1:29-34 TAX SAVINGS for 2016 Organizers announce ‘The Power of One’ as theme for 2017 March for Life ways to make your WASHINGTON (CNS)—Organizers of “It is our hope that in this administration, end of year charitable the March for Life made it clear on Dec. 13 late‑term abortions will be outlawed,” gift for tax deductions that although they’re “cautiously optimistic” Mancini said. TWO about eventually overturning the Supreme Initially, Mancini and McClusky Court’s Roe v. Wade decision with a Donald said their expectation is that the Hyde Permanent funds with your Trump administration and a Republican- Amendment, considered a temporary fix A one-time gift to the controlled House and Senate, they don’t to block federal funds from paying for planned giving that leave a United Catholic Appeal expect to be in lockstep with other aspects abortions, could be made permanent law. 1 2 legacy for generations of the new president’s agenda. That measure prohibits federal funding “We’re nonpartisan,” said Jeanne of abortion except in cases of rape, incest Mancini, president of March for Life, or threat to the woman’s life. Proposed adding, “We always advocate that people by the late Republican Rep. Henry Hyde vote pro-life” without regard to party of Illinois and first enacted in 1976, it label. “Difficult as it is, we always try to is an amendment on an appropriation have a Democratic speaker at the March bill Congress must pass each year. It GIVING GUIDE for Life as well,” she said. prevents taxpayer funding of abortions ANNUAL 1% 12 3% 12 Referring to the president-elect’s in various federal health programs run EARNINGS PLEDGE PAYMENTS PLEDGE PAYMENTS volatility on social media, Tom McClusky, by the Department of Human Services, the march organization’s vice president which oversees the National Institutes of $20,000 $200 $17 $600 $50 of government affairs, remarked: “You Health, Medicaid and Medicare, and the $30,000 $300 $25 $900 $75 always have to worry about the 3 a.m. Children’s Health Insurance Program, tweet that’s going to knock your whole among others. $50,000 $500 $42 $1,500 $125 agenda off.” Mancini said of Trump’s election, “I The annual march, which in some think in a way we’re recovering from the $75,000 $750 $63 $2,250 $188 years has drawn as many as 100,000 shock—in a good way. I think there’s $100,000 $1,000 $84 $3,000 $250 participants, always including busloads of such an unexpected sense of hope.” teens from Catholic schools from across As for the pre-march rally on the $150,000 $1,500 $125 $4,500 $375 the United States, is scheduled for Jan. Washington Monument grounds, Mancini $175,000 $1,750 $146 $5,250 $438 27, one week after Trump’s inauguration said they’ve invited a few individuals they and five days after the 44th anniversary expect to be working in the Trump White $200,000 $2,000 $167 $6,000 $500 IRA Charitable Rollover is now permanent! of the Supreme Court’s Roe v. Wade House to address the marchers, but have decision, which legalized abortion not received confirmations. virtually on demand. Speakers the organizers have No gift is too SMALL Call Us! 317.236.1482 One of Trump’s initial tasks will confirmed include Karyme Lozano, a star to make a BIG difference. www.archindy.org/CCF be to nominate a new Supreme Court of Mexican telenovelas; Cardinal Timothy justice to replace Antonin Scalia, a strong M. Dolan of New York, who is chairman pro‑life jurist, who died in February. of the U.S. bishops’ pro-life committee, Help Us Reach our Goal Scan to learn more about That appointment alone is not expected and possibly a Hollywood performer, www.archindy.org/UCA your planned giving options to result in a repeal of legal abortion, but whom Mancini declined to name but is expected to restore a 5-4 conservative described as “open to our issues.” majority on the court. This year’s theme is “The Power of Visit the UCA and CCF Mancini also expressed optimism One.” Mancini said it references both web pages to see videos for legislation called the Pain-Capable to the impact of a single vote and to a on how your gifts support Unborn Child Protection Act, which has quote from J.R.R. Tolkien, who wrote in the mission and ministries passed the House but remains stalled The Fellowship of the Ring: “Even the of the Archdiocese. in the Senate. It would block abortions smallest person can change the course of after the fetus is at least 20 weeks old. the future.” †