ISSN: 0029-7739 $ 1.00 per copy THE BSERVER OOfficial Newspaper of the Catholic Diocese of Rockford Volume 86 | No. 6 http://observer.rockforddiocese.org FRIDAY JANUARY 8, 2021 Parishes Help Inspire Heroes
Group effort supplies stones for inspiration
BY AMANDA HUDSON News editor
hey seem like small things — little, polished stones with words carved into them — but they brought some happiness Tand hope to nurses and other front line workers caring for COVID patients and others. Church of Holy Apostles in McHenry, St. Mary Parish in Huntley and DeFiore Funeral Home partnered together to provide each employee at Northwestern hospitals — located in McHenry, Huntley and Woodstock — with inspirational stones. “We had 20 different ones to choose from,” says Father Paul White, pastor at Holy Apostles, “including Peace, Love, Family, Inspiration, Trust in the Lord, Choose Joy, Pray Always, (Photos provided) Wisdom and Courage. Tina Schwichow listens to a co-worker during a shift at Northwestern Medicine McHenry Hospital. “It was a huge lift at the roughest time” as a second wave of the virus them at Northwestern Medicine. my office, and I look at it every marathon now,” she says. “This was on the horizon, he says. With her long list of credentials, she day,” she says. isn’t a sprint anymore.” Sister Appolonia Irika, of the simply describes herself as “the go-to “In the emergency room Daughters of Mary Mother of Mercy, I brought a box (of the serves as interim manager at the gal, the troubleshooter,” who helps out Tina Schwichow is stones) out, and at shift three hospitals and says “the stones wherever she is needed. a weekend nursing change they were all got everyone inspired. They gave Overall, the patients are sicker right supervisor and picked ... people picked assurance ... so beautiful and long now, in part because people who should emergency room nurse at what spoke to them.” lasting ... (the staff) loved it.” have come in for care delayed coming Northwestern Medicine She adds that the All the stones, Sister Appolonia in because of the coronavirus, she during the overnight hours. says, noting, “This is usually a heavy support the front line workers She’s been a nurse for more than adds, were “blessed by the priests. have received from the pastoral staff, Some (employees) have them in their time as well (due to) the holidays, eight years and has been a member and with COVID now we are seeing hospital leadership and the community of Holy Apostles parish since it was pockets, some gave them” to family are a lot like the stones in that they members. One nurse chose a stone to more people. I’m working more, but established. I’m doing it because I want to, I want provide “something to let you know She works “a multitude of different encourage her (they are) behind you, and (those are) to help the staff ... I’m usually at the roles,” she says. “Basically, I’m the daughter. not just words.” bedside, helping.” problem solver and represent leadership Rembacz plans to receive the COVID The medical team keeps her going, on those off hours.” Nurse vaccine, in part because her mother Rembacz says, along with “the patients Joan has COPD and is a frail state, and also Described by Father White as one Rembacz and seeing them get better, or at least because she hopes to return to who “has seen the worst of the worst,” works in stabilized, and knowing I made her volunteer work with Schwichow says, “I have seen some emergency a difference.” a veteran’s group once situations that will never leave my services and is Her inspirational stone she is not so busy heart (including) sudden deaths with a parishioner at SS. was first “Pray always,” she at work. That will auto accidents, heart attacks, strokes, Peter and Paul Parish in Cary, also says, but she later picked “I likely be a while. and a limited amount of visitors or if attending Holy Apostles near her work. am with you always.” “This is a family members just can’t be there (for She’s been a nurse for 38 years, 17 of “It’s sitting right here in Continued on page 12
This Issue OfficialAppointments Quick News Inside Rev. Moises A. Apostol — to be Parochial Vic- Bishop Malloy ...... 2 ar at Holy Cross Parish, Batavia, effective Jan. Read The Observer Cor Mariae Headliners...... 3 15, 2021. Online Free in Rockford Rev. Thomas J. Doyle — to be Parochial Diocesan...... 4, 12 Administrator at St. John the Baptist Parish, While we fight COVID, to Close in Nation/World ...... 6-7 Savanna and SS. John and Catherine Parish, anyone may read February Mount Carrroll, effective Jan. 15, 2021. Seasoned Observer ...... 8 The Observer Online The assisted living Rev. Romeo L. Pavino — to be Parochial Ad- for free at http:// Our Catholic View ...... 9 ministrator at St. Peter Parish, South Beloit and facility once served Church of the Holy Spirit Parish, Roscoe, effec- observertoo.rockforddiocese.org/. retired Franciscan For the Record ...... 10 tive Jan. 15, 2021. Subscribers to the print edition will sisters. Given at the Chancery, Jan. 4, 2021 Media/Arts...... 11 continue to receive it by mail. page 3 2 | FRIDAY JANUARY 8, 2021 | The Observer New Year is Time to Evaluate The Observer (ISSN 0029- 7739), is published weekly, What We Do with God’s Gifts except fi ve times a year by the Diocese of Rockford, s we begin the New Year, a common In contrast, the servant with the one talent is 555 Colman Center Dr., P.O. practice and point of conversation obviously ashamed as he reports to the master. But Box 7044, Rockford, IL 61125 Phone: 815/399-4300; Fax involves New Year’s resolutions. we can see why. He buried and therefore did not use 815/399-6225. Those resolutions are often rather soft his talent. He knows he should have done better. Periodical postage paid at commitments often related to passing goals (I need But in the time given him, he did not. The master A Rockford, Ill., and additional to lose fi ve pounds, I need to keep my house a little even calls him lazy. mail offi ces. more picked up).For the most part, by the middle The point is that at this beginning of a New Year, POSTMASTER: send address of January those resolutions are as forgotten as the it is a good time to review the state of our faith, and BY BISHOP changes to The Observer, 555 Christmas lights we’ve packed up and put away. therefore of our soul. How are we doing with the DAVID J. Colman Center Dr., P.O. Box Still, the beginning of the New Year can be an MALLOY gifts and talents that God has given us? We should 7044, Rockford, IL 61125 appropriate moment for a more serious eff ort. ask ourselves, how much longer we have to seek a For ADVERTISING information: Each New Year means that we are drawing closer return on what God has entrusted to us. Contact The Observer at the he New to the moment when Jesus calls us home. 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And the answer is yes. Like us year, the time is now for us to take real stock of our Most Reverend David J. Malloy they are fl awed and sinful human beings. But the situation, then work on it throughout the year. Editor: Penny Wiegert master is pleased with them because they have In the end our goal is like that of those servants. News Editor: Amanda Hudson respected him, they have respected their talents and We want to hear the words, “Well done, faithful they have given their best eff ort. servant. Come, share your master’s joy.” Features and Multimedia Editor: Sharon Boehlefeld Circulation/Proofreading: Susan Sabrowski Accounting: Jill Bonk Advertising and Marketing: Welcome the Child Who Makes Us Family Kevin McCarthy
From Urbi et Orbi, Benediction Hall, the Vatican, Dec. 25 family, my ethnic group or my religion. For all their Production and Web Gary Haughton diff erences, they are still my brothers and sisters. Administrator: Merry Christmas! The same thing is true of relationships between Contributing Writers: I would like to bring to everyone the message that peoples and nations: brothers and sisters all! Father Kenneth Wasilewski, the Church proclaims on this feast with the words At Christmas we celebrate the light of Christ who Lynne Conner, Tony Carton, of the prophet Isaiah: “To us a child is born, to us a Pat Szpekowski, Margarita
(CNS photo/C. Peri via Reuters) Peri photo/C. (CNS comes into the world. He comes for everyone, not Son is given” (Is 9:6) just for some. Today in this time of darkness and Mendoza, Louise Brass BY POPE A child is born. A birth is always a source of uncertainty regarding the pandemic, various lights Publication Dates: Weekly FR ANCIS hope. It is life that blossoms, a promise of the of hope appear, such as the discovery of vaccines. except that in 2021 there will future. Moreover, this Child, Jesus, was born “to be no issues on Jan. 1, April us” — an “us” without any borders, privileges or But for these lights to illuminate and bring hope hanks 30, July 30, Oct. 29 and Dec. exclusions. The Child born of the Virgin Mary in to all, they need to be available to all. We cannot 30. Tto this Bethlehem was born for everyone. He is the “Son” allow the various forms of nationalism closed in on Child, we that God has given to the entire human family. themselves to prevent us from living as the truly News Deadlines: Usually, 10 can all call Thanks to this Child, all of us can speak to God human family that we are. days before publication date. Nor can we allow the virus of radical individualism and call Him “Father.” Jesus is the only-begotten Ad Deadlines: Usually, 10 one another to get the better of us and make us indiff erent to brothers and Son; no one but He knows the Father. Yet He came days before publication date. into the world for this very reason: to show us the the suff ering of other brothers and sisters. I cannot sisters, for place myself ahead of others, letting the law of the Offi cial information on the poli- face of the Father. Thanks to this Child, we can all cies, activities, and positions we truly are. call one another brothers and sisters, for so we truly marketplace and patents take precedence over the law of the Diocese of Rockford is are. We come from every continent, from every of love and the health of humanity. I ask everyone released only in the pages of language and culture, with our own identities and — government leaders, businesses, international The Observer, or in state- organizations — to foster cooperation and not ments from the Diocesan diff erences, yet we are all brothers and sisters. Offi ce of Communications and At this moment in history marked by the competition, and to seek a solution for everyone: Publications. vaccines for all, especially for the most vulnerable ecological crisis and grave economic and social The Observer uses recycled imbalances only worsened by the coronavirus and needy of all regions of the planet. Before all paper and is recyclable. pandemic, it is all the more important for us to others: the most vulnerable and needy! ... Our Mission is the mission acknowledge one another as brothers and sisters. Dear brothers and sisters, Merry Christmas once of the Church itself — to God has made this fraternal unity possible by more to all of you connected by radio, television spread the Gospel through giving us His Son Jesus. The fraternity He off ers us and other means of communication from every contemporary means of communications. has nothing to do with fi ne words, abstract ideals part of the world. I thank you for your spiritual or vague sentiments. It is a fraternity grounded in presence on this day of joy. In these days, when the Member of: genuine love, making it possible for me to encounter Christmas atmosphere invites us to become better others diff erent from myself, feeling compassion for people, more fraternal, let us not forget to pray for their suff erings, drawing near to them and caring families and communities who live in the midst of for them even though they do not belong to my much suff ering. Please continue to pray for me. Headliners The Observer | FRIDAY JANUARY 8, 2021 | 3 Bishop Malloy’s Message for the New Year As we conclude 2020 and look social injustice, outbreaks of violence have its joys and its sorrows. But our forward to the New Year, I take and subsequent protests. hope recalls that every year brings this moment to o er my prayers Even as 2020 draws to a close, us closer to meeting Christ. As we for all the faithful, friends and all we nd ourselves praying again for re ect on the joys of the Kingdom those present in the Diocese of victims of senseless violence around to which we are invited by the very Rockford. our nation, especially in Nashville and fact of Christ’s birth into this world, Much has already been said in our own diocese. We end the year we are compelled to deepen our about the sadness and challenges in Rockford praying for healing for faith, our moral conduct, our love for to life, livelihood and faith that the victims and families of the mass each other, and to constantly listen to have been part of 2020. The rea- shooting at Don Carter Lanes. And God’s calling. sons to continue and deepen our of course we carry the weight of all I pray that for each of us, 2021 will prayer for so many intentions are these concerns on top of all the ev- bring numerous moments at which well before all of us. eryday challenges faced throughout God gives us the grace to serve Him We began the year with the the year by individuals and families. and our brothers and sisters. May our constant news of the evolving CO- Still, the Christmas Season and faith be deepened and our prepara- VID virus that has so dominated the New Year remind us that we are tion to be part of God’s eternal King- our lives. The year also confronted always people of hope. The coming dom be further advanced each day. (CNS photo/Gregory A. Shemitz) us once more with incidents of of Jesus reminds us that each year will A Blessed New Year to all. Cor Mariae in Rockford to Close This Spring
ROCKFORD—Ascension and assist with placement into a Living Cor Mariae Village, an new community.” assisted living center in Rock- The building began as Mount ford, will close on Feb. 28, ac- St. Francis Provincial House, cording to the center. opening in 1964 for the School Molly Gaus, vice president Sisters of St. Francis (SSSF) af- Marketing and Communica- ter they received permission in tion, Ascension Living, said 1958 to establish a new, Rock- in an email, “Ascension Liv- ford Province with its own ing regularly reviews our op- motherhouse. It also served as erations and services to ensure a novitiate for new sisters. their long-term sustainability. In 1976, construction was be- An extensive assessment was gun to convert the building into conducted to determine how a health care facility for retired Ascension Living can ensure SSSF sisters and was known the long-term viability of our as Maria Linden. The facility Mission while providing care was later opened to the public, for older adults in Rockford in and gradually the retired sisters the midst of continuing chang- moved to the religious order’s es across the industry. Campbellsport, Wis. facility (Observer photo/Amanda Hudson) “Leadership has spent for aging sisters. Ascension Living Cor Mariae Village, an assisted living center in Rockford that originally was built as a moth- months working to fi nd a viable An addition providing skilled erhouse for a planned new province of the School Sisters of St. Francis, will close the end of February. way to continue operating both care nursing was added to the Ascension Living Cor Mariae back of the building after it be- Village and Ascension Living came part of the Provena sys- Saint Anne Place, located ap- tem of health care facilities run proximately 2.5 miles away in by three religious orders in the Rockford. COVID-19 was not a mid-1990s. Two other religious factor in this assessment, which orders joined that gathering of began before the pandemic.” health care facilities and all Current skilled nursing resi- came under the Presence name. dents are able to apply to Ascen- It then was Presence Cor Mar- sion Living Saint Anne Place or iae Center Independent Living, other facilities chosen by the a facility of Presence Life Con- residents and their families. nections, off ering a range of Gaus said, “Our team mem- medical and nursing care. bers will work with current resi- A few years ago, the Presence dents and family members to en- facilities began to be operated Did you know... sure a seamless transition. This under “Ascension Living” with includes helping independent liv- a new owner. ing and sheltered care residents, No offi cial word has been re- Savant's Social Responsibility portfolio options allow and family members identify the ceived on the future plans for investors to align their strategies with their faith? appropriate level of care needed the facility.
Bishop Malloy’s Public Schedule Savant Capital Management is a nationally recognized fee-only wealth ROCKFORD — Jan. 10, 7:30 ROCKFORD — Jan. 17, 7:30 management firm that offers integrative investment management and a.m., Sunday Mass, Cathedral of a.m., Sunday Mass, Cathedral of financial planning solutions to individuals, families, foundations, trust funds, St. Peter St. Peter retirement plans and non-profit organizations. ONLINE — Jan. 10, 9 a.m. Mass, ONLINE — Jan. 17, 9 a.m. Mass, https://www.rockforddiocese. https://www.rockforddiocese. org/ and https://www. org/ and https://www. facebook.com/Diocese-of- facebook.com/Diocese-of- Start building your ideal future! Rockford-107823162598914/ Rockford-107823162598914/ Call us today for a complimentary portfolio review. ONLINE — Jan. 13, 12 noon, ONLINE — Jan. 20, 12 noon, a devotion and re ection, a devotion and re ection, 815 227 0300 savantcapital.com https://www.rockforddiocese. https://www.rockforddiocese. org/ and https://www. org/ and https://www. Savant Capital Management is a Registered Investment Advisor. Savant's marketing material should not be construed by any existing facebook.com/Diocese-of- facebook.com/Diocese-of- or prospective client as a guarantee that they will experience a certain level of results if they engage in the advisor's services. Rockford-107823162598914/ Rockford-107823162598914/ Please contact Savant to find out if they are qualified to provide investment advisory services in the state where you reside. 4 | FRIDAY JANUARY 8, 2021 | The Observer Diocesan Joseph a Relevant Saint For 2021 Challenges
BY AMANDA HUDSON in the Bible stories about him. While News editor the Blessed Mother was a quiet soul, St. Joseph is a completely silent presence – t. Joseph seems to be tailor- but a faithful, just and solid figure in his made to watch over this new silence. year of 2021. Lack of details about St. Joseph may He is, after all, the patron saint be why the Church was not quick to Sof workers — so many of whom have formally honor him early in its history. suffered from unemployment or under- The Catholic Encyclopedia says St. employment since last March. Joseph was honored first by the Eastern And Joseph also is the patron of a Church, and that a type of feast was happy death, perhaps the only person kept by the Coptic Christians as early who died in the actual physical presence as the beginning of the fourth century. (CNS photo/Vatican Media) of Jesus and Mary. Too many people The feast of “Joseph the Carpenter” is A crucifix and a statue of St. Joseph are seen as Pope Francis (in background)leads his have lost their own lives or lost loved found on an old Coptic calendar on July general audience at the Vatican on Aug. 26, 2020. In a Dec. 8 apostolic letter, Pope Francis ones from the current pandemic. 20. Later, menologies (ecclesiastical proclaimed a yearlong celebration dedicated to St. Joseph, foster father of Jesus. St. Joseph is a model for fathers, for calendars of festivals celebrated in families in general, and he experienced honor of particular saints and martyrs) (1515-1582) is known as one who gave the other three standard Eucharistic exile, which gives him plenty of in the Greek church celebrated St. more breadth and depth to devotion to prayers, an initiative begun by Pope credentials as a guardian for refugees, Joseph around Christmas. St. Joseph. He was so much a presence Benedict XVI, according to the U.S. the homeless and those who are targeted In the West, the name of St. Joseph in the founding of her monasteries that Conference of Catholic Bishops. by their neighbors and governments for appears in local martyrologies of the he began to be known as the “founder” “In a world in which we tend to flee destruction. ninth and tenth centuries, and in 1129 of the Teresian Carmel. Ten of the 15 from the bonds of stable relationships All such dilemmas occur in the a church was dedicated to his honor in Carmelite monasteries that she herself and commitments and to revert to world every year, but the coronavirus Bologna. Private devotions to Joseph founded bore the name of St. Joseph. a kind of sterile narcissism, Joseph pandemic has made life extra hard for were encouraged by several saints On Sept. 10, 1847, Pope Pius IX shows us the way of self-denial, daily many in 2020, and it continues into including Bernard, Thomas Aquinas, extended to the whole Church the feast responsibility, the silent dedication to 2021. While other saints are destined Gertrude and Bridget of Sweden, the of the patronage of St. Joseph. the care and growth of family,” say the to help us in certain kinds of need, St. encyclopedia says. On Dec. 8, 1870, Pope Pius IX made two current leaders of the Carmelite Joseph is more universal, assisting in In the year 1400, the French a solemn proclamation making Joseph orders, Father Miceal O’Neill, O.Carm., any kind of need, material or spiritual. theologian Jean Gerson composed the patron of the universal Church. The and Father Saverio Cannistra, O.C.D. Pope Francis, in his March 19 homily an Office of the Espousals of Joseph liturgical calendar approved after the “There is no Church ... without at Santa Marta last year, spoke of the in promoting public recognition of Second Vatican Council was simplified, people who, forgetting themselves, world’s need for both “concreteness and devotion to the saint, and later that and the title “protector of the universal work day and night to give others a the sense of mystery.” He called Joseph century Pope Sixtus IV gave St. Joseph Church” disappeared from the principal sure foundation in which they can a man of clear and practical vision, the Roman Calendar feast day of March feast of St. Joseph on March 19. That trust. These people work away from the capable of doing his work with precision 19, which the Encyclopedia Britannica title was not abolished, but the biblical limelight, bearing in their own hearts and professional skill, and one who at says was considered the traditional day title, “spouse of the Virgin Mary,” is the all their own concerns and anxieties, the same time penetrated the mystery of his death. usual focus of that feast day. very often not seeing the fruits or even of God beyond all that was familiar to The Franciscan and Carmelite orders The memorial of St. Joseph the the goal, trusting only in the one from him or was under his control, and in the were instrumental in encouraging Worker is celebrated on May 1. The whom their paternity comes and takes presence of which he kneels and adores. devotion to St. Joseph. Of particular Encyclopedia Britannica says that feast its name. These are the people who will Dec. 8, 2020, was the 150th anniversary note are Franciscans who went to the was established by Pope Pius XII in always find in St. Joseph their patron of the proclamation of St. Joseph as Holy Land in the 13th century, and 1955 in part as a counter-celebration to and model ... .” Patron of the Universal Church, and Franciscan preachers St. Bernardine the communists’ May Day. The Observer plans to present periodic Pope Francis now calls us to turn to St. of Siena and St. Bonaventure of In 1962, Pope John XXIII inserted articles in 2021 featuring the St. Joseph Joseph as our patron for 2021. Bagnoregio and also Franciscan Pope the name of St. Joseph into the Roman churches of the diocese as well as other St. Joseph is perhaps the quietest saint Sixtus IV (see above). Canon (now Eucharistic Prayer 1). In events and initiatives inspired by, and ever, with no record of his voice even The Carmelites’ St. Teresa of Jesus 2013, Pope Francis placed his name into honoring, this faithful foster father of Jesus. Aurora Literacy Center Exceeds Fundraising Goal
BY AL BENSON Literacy Center are deeply Founded in 1993, the cen- For The Observer grateful to our donors, who so ter organizes female volunteer generously contributed to and tutors to deliver free English AURORA—Aurora’s Do- supported our mission on Giv- classes to more than 150 im- minican Literacy Center ing Tuesday. Their generosity migrant women annually. Ad- greatly exceeded its 2020 Giv- was overwhelming. ditionally, free citizenship ingTuesday fundraising goal. “These donations will help us classes are offered to both men Sister Kathleen Ryan, center to continue to help immigrant and women. founder and executive director, families learn to read, write The center’s mission is to said, “Our goal was $10,000 and speak English. God bless enable immigrant families to and we received $10,300. each and every one of you, and participate in their communi- “All of us at the Dominican your loved ones.” ties learning to read, write and speak English. (Photo courtesy Dominican Literacy Center) Sister Ryan noted, “This has Masked students and tutors are checked in and their temperatures Watch Sunday been a difficult year for all, yet taken at the Dominican Literacy Center in Aurora. the Dominican Literacy Cen- ter’s students have been deter- Catholic TV in the mined to continue their educa- see how the center’s staff, tutors Ave. in Aurora, is operated tion.” and students have worked hard by the Dominican Sisters of Rockford Diocese starts to continue on.” Springfield. with a faith-filled Accommodating COVID The center has served more GivingTuesday, an interna- program at 6 a.m., “The center’s staff has done than 2,000 Aurora-area resi- tional 24-hour online cam- followed by Mass at their best to meet students’ dents since its founding, grow- paign, was held Dec. 1. Founded needs by making safety accom- ing from five students and five in 2012, the drive is dedicated 6:30 a.m. on WREX modations for in-person lessons teachers to 150 students from to encouraging people to make channel 13 in Rockford View Mass anytime atwww.rockforddiocese.org/tv-mass when allowed and by facilitat- 16 countries taught by volun- donations to charities, volun- and on cable. Brought to you by the Diocesan Office of Communication and ing virtual lessons,” Sister Ryan teer tutors each year. teer and generally support phil- Publications said, adding, “It is inspiring to The center, at 260 Vermont anthropic efforts. The Observer | FRIDAY JANUARY 8, 2021 | 5
ROCKFORD DIOCESE 2021 COMBINED APPEALS for The Universal Catholic Church ONEIN
JANUARY 16-17
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THE NATIONAL APPEAL REFLECTS THE VARIED WAYS WE SEEK TO COMMUNICATE CHRIST’S MESSAGE.
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Happy, Quiet Don’t Miss New Year The Vatican Christmas Bishop tree is illuminated in a nearly empty St. Peter’s Malloy’s Square on New Year’s Eve during the COVID-19 TV Messages pandemic. As the Catholic Church celebrated World Weekday Reflection Peace Day Jan. 1, Pope Francis o ered prayers (about 6:58 a.m.) for the people of war- on WREX-TV, Channel 13, torn Yemen, especially Rockford the nation’s children left without education and often without food by Top o’ the years of civil war. The pope made no mention Morning of the sciatica pain that had forced him to miss with an evening prayer service Dec. 31 and the morning Bishop Mass Jan. 1 for the feast of Mary, Mother of God. Malloy (CNS photo/Fabio Frustaci, pool via Reuters) Listen to archives anytime at http://observer.rockforddiocese.org. Click on Bishop Malloy on the top left side of the page. Fides Says 20 ‘Missionaries’ Brought to you by Fitzgerald Funeral Homes Illinois Bank & Trust Diocesan Office of Died Violently in 2020 Communication and VATICAN CITY (CNS)— disciples.’” Fides said, shared the life of the Bishop Pablo Schmitz Simon, Publications The Observer Attacked because of their faith, Fides’ 2020 list includes people with whom they lived said their deaths were part of a Office of Charitable Giving, killed in a robbery, murdered in eight priests, six laypeople — and, in too many cases, shared widespread pattern of violence Diocese of Rockford a general climate of violence or including two girls, 10- and the same kind of violent death. against women and girls. struck down by someone with 12-year-old sisters, who were They include Michael Nnadi, Fides also included 51-year- obvious mental diffi culties, members of the Holy Child- 18, in Nigeria. Nnadi’s body old Father Roberto Malgesini, a the 20 missionaries who died hood Association in Nicaragua was found Feb. 1. Police ar- priest of the Diocese of Como, violent deaths in 2020 were — three women religious, two rested Mustapha Mohammed, Italy, who was stabbed to death witnesses of the Gospel, said seminarians and a religious alleged leader of a gang that Sept. 15 by a mentally ill home- Fides, the Vatican’s missionary brother. specialized in stopping cars less man he was helping. news agency. While the word “martyr” and robbing drivers, Fides re- Eight of the 20 victims on the Presenting its annual list of literally means “witness,” the ported. Mohammed confessed Fides list were killed in Central missionaries killed during the agency does not use the term to killing Nnadi because “he or South America, seven in Af- year, the news agency of the for the missionaries killed “in kept preaching the Gospel of rica, three in Asia and two in Congregation for the Evange- order not to enter into the ques- Jesus Christ” to gang members. Italy; in addition to Father Mal- lization of Peoples explained, tion of the judgment that the The girls on Fides’ list, Lil- gesini, Fides listed Camillian “We use the term ‘missionary’ Church might eventually de- liam Yunielka Gonzalez and Brother Leonardo Grasso, 78, for all the baptized, aware that liver upon some of them, after Blanca Marlene Gonzalez, who was beaten and then died ‘in virtue of their baptism, all careful consideration, for beati- were murdered with machetes in a fi re set at the community And Don’t Miss the members of the People of fi cation or canonization.” Sept. 15 in Mulukuku, Nica- for recovering addicts he ran in His Column God have become missionary The murdered missionaries, ragua. The bishop, U.S.-born Riposto. Weekly in Ohio Catholics Adapt to Pandemic Concerns The Observer And Create a Meaningful Christmas 2020 MEDINA, Ohio (CNS)— said. While some sat outside sense of community we all Bob Cavanaugh certainly ex- in chairs, others listened from sorely miss” said Cavanaugh. Subscribe perienced a white Christmas in inside their cars as parishioners “We thought the horrible 2020, but not the kind crooners scrambled to make the Mass weather would keep people sing about in the popular song happen for those longing to away, but far from it. People Today! by that name. take part in the liturgy. They are created for relationship Restrictions to control the brushed away snow that accu- with God, and with each other, Select print, digital COVID-19 pandemic forced mulated on a portable altar as and many aren’t getting enough hundreds at St. Francis Xavier (CNS photo/Jeenah Moon, Reuters) the incense set the smoke alarm of either one, the way this pan- or both for just Mask and snow Parish in Medina, Ohio, to grab off in the youth offi ce used as demic is going right now.” $28 per year. outdoor chairs and swat snow- an outdoor sacristy. Snow had accumulated on Christmas season in 2020 Call 815-399-4300 fl akes during a snowstorm in Liturgy can be messy,” said the altar again toward the end December in order to attend led to many adaptions around Cavanaugh of outdoor Mass of Mass, and Cavanaugh, with ext. 383 or go online at one of the most solemn Masses the world for Catholics like in the winter — a necessity to his mask soaking wet and fro- of the year. Cavanaugh who wanted to be keep large numbers from gath- zen along the edges, said he had http://observer. physically present for holiday rockforddiocese.org “Outdoor Mass, 26 degrees, ering indoors and subsequently one thought: “What a mess!” in a snowstorm, masked, with liturgies. Some, because of fueling contagion. And yet he noticed that no about 400 others, and we concerns about health or age, The value of community and one had left. could actually sing with so- missed Christmas Mass for the keeping everyone safe was part “Snow was falling gently like cial distancing as we were not fi rst time, while others had to of what drove the faith com- in a movie, and all were sing- indoors,” Cavanaugh wrote adjust to dramatically changed munity to brave the snowstorm ing along beautifully.” he said. to Catholic News Service via customs and practices — in- and gather, even with obstacles, “I closed my eyes, joined in the Twitter Dec. 29. cluding Mass in a church park- Cavanaugh said. song, and thought to myself, “Cold and messy, awesome ing lot in the snow. “Our pastor, Father Tony Se- this might be one of the most and beautiful at the same time,” In Ohio, it snowed 5-6 inch- jba, insisted on attempting to beautiful moments of liturgy he said. es before Mass, Cavanaugh have Mass outdoors, for the I’ve ever experienced.” Nation/World The Observer | FRIDAY JANUARY 8, 2021 | 7 Pope on Christmas: Share Hope, News in Brief ‘Ad Patris domvm’: Famed Promote Peace, Vaccine to All Carmelite Latinist dies at 81 VATICAN CITY (CNS)—On VATICAN CITY (CNS)—Discalced Car- a Christmas like no other, Pope melite Father Reginald Foster — a world- Francis prayed for people who renowned teacher of Latin — died in could not be with their families Milwaukee Dec. 25 at the age of 81. Father because of the COVID-19 pan- Michael Berry, provincial of the Washing- (CNS photo/Chris Warde-Jones) demic, but he urged everyone to ton Province Discalced Carmelites, told Father Reginald recognize and help those who the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel that Father Foster, OCD are suffering even more. Foster had tested positive for COVID-19 in early December, From inside the Hall of Bless- and he expected the official cause of death to be complica- ings — a long, gold-hued room tions from the coronavirus. In a Latin-language message to above the atrium of St. Peter’s the order’s superior general, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Vatican Basilica lined on the east with secretary of state, conveyed Pope Francis’ gratitude for Father enormous windows and balco- Foster’s contributions to the Church, as well as his condolenc- nies facing St. Peter’s Square (CNS photo/Vatican Media) es and prayers. Father Foster’s unusual method of throwing — Pope Francis delivered his Pope Francis wears a mask during his Christmas message and bless- students straight into Latin texts, designed to help them love Christmas message and his ing “urbi et orbi” (to the city and the world) delivered from the Hall of blessing “urbi et orbi” (to the Blessings at the Vatican Dec. 25. the language before memorizing grammatical rules, brought city and the world). hundreds of students to his classrooms, particularly at Rome’s As announced by Cardinal message in the presence of a turn to families: to those who can- Pontifical Gregorian University. Between classes, he often was Angelo Comastri, archpriest of representative group of about 50 not come together today and to seen on the university’s front steps wearing his blue work- St. Peter’s Basilica, the solemn people. The tens of thousands those forced to remain at home,” man’s uniform and drinking a beer. blessing included a plenary in- of people who usually would the pope said. “May Christmas Pope removes management of finances, dulgence for everyone watching throng the square for the mid- be an opportunity for all of us to on television, listening by radio day appointment Dec. 25 were rediscover the family ...” property from Secretariat of State or following by computer. all ordered to be at home, and In a last-minute addition to VATICAN CITY (CNS)—Pope Francis approved a new set of Because of Italy’s renewed St. Peter’s Square was closed to his text, Pope Francis called for laws that formally transfer the manage- lockdown to slow the spread the public. “vaccines for all,” especially the ment of all bank accounts and financial of the virus, the pope read his “My thoughts at this moment world’s most vulnerable people. investments belonging to the Vatican Sec- retariat of State. Issued “motu proprio,” on the pope’s own accord, the pope’s decree Nigerian orders the Administration of the Patrimo- ny of the Holy See, also known as APSA, to manage the accounts. APSA handles Bishop and the Vatican’s investment portfolio and (CNS photo/Paul Haring) real estate holdings. Supervision of APSA’s Cardinal Pietro Parolin management of the assets will be handled His Driver by the Secretariat for the Economy, “which from now on will also carry out the function of papal secretariat for economic and financial matters,” the pope decreed. The Vatican said Freed by that the measures formalized provisions set out by the pope in an Aug. 25 letter to Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Vatican secre- tary of state. The Vatican said the measures are an expression Kidnappers of Pope Francis’ personal commitment to “greater transpar- ency, clearer separation of roles, greater effectiveness in
(CNS photo/Paul Haring) LAGOS, controls and greater adaption of the Holy See’s economy to N i g e r i a the mission of the Church.” One of the Oldest Mosaics Being Restored (CNS)— Flowers and animals are pictured on a 5th-century mosaic during Au xiliar y its restoration in the historic vestibule of the baptistery at the Basil- Bishop Mo- ica of St. John Lateran in Rome Dec. 9. Vatican restorers are tackling ses Chikwe (CNS photo/Public Domain) Retreat one of the oldest mosaics in Christianity, dated to around 450 AD. of Owerri Auxiliary Bishop Moses Schedule and his Chikwe driver, Rob- 2021 ert Ndubuisi, were released by Vatican City State Pesticide- their abductors Jan. 1 after be- Weekend Silent Preached Retreat for Men ing kidnapped five days earlier. February 5 - 7 February 19 - 21 Archbishop John Obinna Free, Imports Green Energy of Owerri said when he vis- February 26 - 28 March 5 - 7 ited Bishop Chikwe at his resi- March 12 - 14 April 30 - May 2 VATICAN CITY (CNS)— dence, the bishop was “looking “Living in a Time of Plentiful Redemption” Reaching “zero emissions” for and feeling very weak from the Vatican City State is an achiev- traumatic experience.” Presenters: The Retreat Team able goal and is another green He said the bishop’s driver Weekend Preached Retreat for Married Couples initiative it has been pursuing, had been taken to the hospi- said the head of its department tal for treatment of a deep cut February 12 -14, 2021 of infrastructure and services. to his hand, received from the “Living in a Time of Plentiful Redemption” The Vatican’s reforestation (CNS photo/Paul Haring) kidnappers. Presenters: The Retreat Team program has seen 300 trees of Solar panels are seen on the roof The archbishop thanked state various species planted over the of the Paul VI audience hall at the authorities and security agents Weekend Silent Preached Retreat for Women past three years, and “an impor- Vatican in this Dec. 1, 2010, file for their work to get the two March 19 – 21, 2021 tant milestone” is the tiny nation photo. men released. March 26 – 28, 2021 “has achieved its goal of being The 53-year-old bishop lived pesticide-free,” Father Rafael Castel Gandolfo extends over and worked in Southern Cali- “Living in a Time of Plentiful Redemption” Garcia de la Serrana Villalobos, 135 acres, including about 17 fornia from 2005 to 2017. He Presenters: The Retreat Team told Vatican News in mid-De- acres of formal gardens, resi- completed a master’s degree in cember. dences and a working farm. educational administration at Contact the Retreat Center to register He also said the electricity the Father de la Serrana said the Loyola Marymount University or for more information. Vatican imports is produced en- new watering system for the in Los Angeles and a Ph.D. in tirely from renewable sources. Vatican Gardens has saved education at the University of Redemptorist Retreat Center The walled-in area of Vati- about 60% of water resources. California at Los Angeles. Oconomowoc, WI can City State covers about 109 “We are promoting green econ- He was appointed auxiliary acres, including extensive gar- omy policies, that is, circular 262-567-6900 bishop of his home archdiocese www.redemptoristretreat.org dens, and the papal property at economy policies,” he said. in 2019. 8 | FRIDAY JANUARY 8, 2021 | The Observer seasoned Destination observer Another Gambit Game of Chess Helps Catholic School Students Discern Their Next Move
BY TOM DERMODY, He came to chess late in life himself and Catholic News Service believes the game has much to offer today’s students of all racial, cultural and economic retired special education backgrounds. teacher recently named “We are losing a sense of task-oriented coordinator of the San young people with the ability to discern and Francisco Archdiocese’s reason their next move,” he said, and the abil- African American ethnic ity to ask themselves independently what they (Observer screengrab/Sharon Boehlefeld) ministry sees chess as an are going to do next. “We see none of that academic, social and spiritual game changer today.” Afor students today. Chess helps cultivate internal motivation, Basilica of St. Joseph “When we speak about the philosophy of among other things. chess, I look “If I Proto-Cathedral at it just like can get Bardstown, Ky. life and how children we discern to sit Destination: As we begin the year of St. Joseph, we and make down like find few basilicas are named to honor St. Joseph, but decisions,” the third one is the Basilica of St. Joseph Proto-Cathedral in Chris Major graders Bardstown, Ky. told Catholic you see Masses are being offered at 4 p.m. Saturday; 7, 9 and San Fran- here and 11 a.m. Sunday; and 11 a.m. Monday through Friday. cisco, the play a Check with the web site before you go to be sure things archdiocesan 40-min- haven’t changed. newspaper, ute game Why to go: The church cornerstone was laid in July 1816, during a visit of chess, according to the parish website. St. Joseph was the first to St. Ra- those cathedral west of the Allegheny Mountains and is listed phael School kids are by the U.S. Library of Congress as a national landmark. last fall. going to St. Joseph Proto-Cathedral campus is adjacent to A half (CNS photo/Christina Gray, Catholic San Francisco) be able to Spalding Hall and Flaget Hall of what was originally St. Chris Major (right) coaches third graders in St. Raphael School’s after- dozen third sit down Joseph College, which are all on the National Historic graders school chess program in San Francisco. Major, a former special education on their teacher and the new coordinator of the San Francisco Archdiocese’s African Register. Pastors served as president of the college. stared intent- own and American ministry, believes chess can help students from all backgrounds Paintings and other gifts from Europe donated by Pope ly at chess develop their critical and independent thinking skills. do their Leo XII, Francis I — King of the Two Sicilies — and King boards as two home- Louis Phillippe of France, decorate the building and speak sixth grad- work, to the French beginnings of the diocese. ers jumped around a super-sized chess board review their homework and correct their The cathedral was consecrated in 1819, though the interior rolled out on the school’s library floor. Major homework,” he said. was not fully completed until 1823. When the Episcopal sat across from some of the players as coach. Still, chess is not just about winning for See was moved 40 miles away to the fast growing city of The school is the first Catholic school in the oneself. Louisville in 1841, St. Joseph’s changed from a Cathedral archdiocese to host his after-school chess min- “The language of chess is one of sacrifice,” parish to a parish church with the title “Proto-Cathedral.” istry now serving about 50 students in Marin Major said. “It’s one of being a part of a team In 1995, Bardstown was named a Titular See by the County. for the goal of checkmating the other king but Vatican for its contributions to Catholic Church heritage in In 2009, Major launched the Novato Chess you can’t do that by yourself. You need the America. Once again, Bardstown has a bishop, though in Club with a Rotary Club grant to help students other pieces on the board to help.” an honorary capacity. from kindergarten through eighth grade be- Major was raised Catholic and attended St. come critical and independent thinkers better Bede High School in Hayward, Calif., before In 2001 Pope John Paul II declared St. Joseph a minor Basilica. able to “plan their next move” in life. a baseball scholarship took him to St. Mary’s He believes the game also helps students College and later the University of San Fran- St. Joseph has nearly 5,000 parishioners. learn to communicate with others, be gracious cisco, where he earned a credential in special Accessibility: Much of the grounds appear to be acces- in victory and defeat and deal with the frustra- education. sible to the handicapped. tion and emotions that the game brings out. In addition to running his nonprofit and his (Grand) Kid friendly: All ages are welcome. Major, 59, is a former college baseball player new appointment as African American ethnic Info: Address — Basilica of St. Joseph Proto-Cathedral, at St. Mary’s College in Moraga, Calif., who ministry coordinator for the Archdiocese of 310 W. Stephen Foster Ave., Bardstown, KY 40004 San Francisco, Major is in his fourth year of went on to teach special needs high school n Phone — 502-348-3126 n Website — https:// students before founding Hayward Youth formation in the permanent diaconate. stjosephbasilica.org/ Academy, a nonprofit that offers academic and “They (the archdiocese) need a face out — Sharon Boehlefeld compiled this story recreational enrichment programs to Bay Area there right now that speaks about unity,” he Send Destinations ideas to [email protected] families. said. Our Catholic View The Observer | FRIDAY JANUARY 8, 2021 | 9
Di erent View CNS/Joe Heller Scripture Re ection for Jan. 10, Baptism of the Lord A New Beginning
BY JEM SULLIVAN Catholic News Service
new year is a time of new beginnings. As we leave behind the past year, our longing for renewal echoes in the psalmist’s prayer that the Lord will bless his people with peace. AAnd as always, our human desire for renewal is met by God’s overfl owing generosity, as Isaiah reminds the people of Israel. As we celebrate the feast of the Baptism of the Lord today, we call to mind our baptism when God made us a new creation in His son Jesus. In “The Calling of St. Matthew,” Caravaggio, the master Baroque painter, evokes the powerful action of God’s grace that makes all things new. When Jesus calls Matthew to be His disciple, He makes him a new creation, just as each one How Generous are We? of us was recreated at our baptism. Caravaggio depicts Matthew seated among a group of men at a small table. Jesus and Peter enter the room Someone I know is a waiter. For the Journey doing what was necessary for on the right side of the scene. The men are startled Like restaurants across the salvation. by the presence of Jesus whose right hand points in a U.S. during the COVID-19 by E e The monk told Abba the commanding, yet loving, gesture of invitation. pandemic, his establishment Caldarola ways he was being a good The bearded fi gure, believed to be the tax collector, has been open, closed, carry- points to himself as if to say, “Me?” Caravaggio out only, 50% capacity — in person — prayer, fasting, captures something of the spiritual drama unfolding other words, his income has keeping the rules — what Catholic News Service across areas of bright light and deep shadow. Known as bounced like a yo-yo. more should he do? “chiaroscuro,” the sharp contrast of light and darkness The other evening, with renewed closure The older monk reached his hands up to rules going into eff ect, he served his last table. illuminates the scene and evokes the interior spiritual heaven and his fi ngers became like 10 lamps of He chatted with these customers, and when re-creation of Matthew in this profound moment of they left he discovered they had left a $200 tip fi re, and he said, “Why not become fi re?” encounter with Jesus. — more than the cost of their meal. Jesus told the rich man something that at Art commentators note that Caravaggio’s viewers Our season of giving comes at a time of fi rst sounds like diff erent advice. Jesus told would have seen a similarity between the gesture of great need. him to give up all his possessions and then Jesus pointing to Matthew and the iconic gesture of When I hear stories like this, it challenges “follow me.” Sometimes when we read this, God awakening Adam to life in Michelangelo’s Sistine my own generosity. we decide it can’t apply to us. Most of us Chapel frescoes. Am I a generous and spontaneous giver? can’t give up everything. We need to save God, creator of all that exists, gives life to Adam and Or do I parse out my treasure, my talents, my new life to Matthew the tax collector. And this new life time, as if I’m budgeting for the electric bill? for retirement. We need to provide for our of grace has been given to you and me. It begins at our Do I overthink my giving? Or do I give freely families. So Jesus isn’t talking to me, is He? and from my essence? baptism and continues through every stage of life as we It has taken me a while to realize the point draw close to God in friendship. During Advent and Christmas — a season of the story isn’t about possessions. The point that continues until Jan. 10 — I have been The beam of warm light radiating from Jesus called to refl ect on John 1:5, “The light shines is that Jesus speaks to each of us individually brightens the darkened space of the cold room. in the darkness, and the darkness has not about His will for us, but He always includes Caravaggio’s artistic use of light evokes what happens overcome it.” the call — we are always asked to follow Him, when God creates us anew in Jesus at our baptism. I have a Christmas candle I pull out every and if we do, we become fi re. When we hear Jesus’ call to friendship and respond in year. I can’t even remember where I got it. It’s If we have the means, this year provides faith the darkness of the human condition is overcome in sparkly silver. It’s very pretty. But as I prayed us the opportunity, the gift, of learning to the light of God’s love and mercy. one morning, the thought came to me: Why stretch the warm fi re of our generosity. Many At Jesus’ baptism the Holy Trinity is revealed when have I never lit this candle? Isn’t a candle the voice of the Father points to His beloved son Jesus parishes are experiencing a huge downturn in meant to be burned? Aren’t there more candles and the dove of the Holy Spirit descends on Jesus. The out there that could replace this one when it’s donations due to smaller crowds and closures. presence of the Holy Spirit sanctifi es the waters of the used up? What am I waiting for? Why am I Food banks see lines snake mercilessly around Jordan and all baptismal waters. Now the public journey hoarding it? city blocks. People are being evicted in The candle became a metaphor, of course, of Jesus’ mission to re-create the world for friendship for my own generosity and my attitude unprecedented numbers. Our neighbors may with God begins. toward giving, toward using what I have as be lonely or depressed and need a phone call. At our baptism Jesus called and strengthened us to God intends. What am I waiting for? So I My deacon friend was asked, “How much be His disciples. We continue to receive the baptismal lit the candle and now it burns while I pray, should I give?” He replied, “Give more.” gift of new life in Jesus Christ in dramatic moments reminding me that light is meant to be shared Don’t overthink it. We’re called to be of conversion and in ordinary events of our day. In generously. lavishly, spontaneously, sacrifi cially generous gratitude for this new life of grace, received in baptism, There’s the ancient story from the desert we pray, “speak to me, Lord.” fathers about the monk who came to “Abba with our time and resources. Joseph” for advice, much like the rich young When I light my candle, the fl ame reminds Refl ection question: How does God’s grace received at man who came to Jesus to ask whether he was me of this. baptism renew my life today?
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Deaths Parish offices may forward death and wedding information AURORA—St. Therese of Je- using forms at http://observer.rockforddiocese.org. Click on sus: Ruben M. Barrera, Sr., 54, Contact Us , then click on the death or wedding form. You may Dec. 14; also request death and wedding postcards by calling 815-399- 4300, ext. 383. We encourage you to send the information as BYRON—St. Mary: Elizabeth Pierson, 93, Dec. 14; soon as you receive it. Thank you. DIXON—St. Patrick: Margaret Dec. 12; ing to serve God faithfully in His “Mary” Rose Zopf, 99, Dec. 13; holy Church. EAST DUBUQUE—St. Mary: STERLING—Sacred Heart: Kevin David Gockel, 55, Dec. 16; James William Foley, 89, Dec. 28; Courtesy of www.priestsforlife.org Doris M. Hasken, 83, Dec. 19; WALTON— St. Mary: Ann Stewardship Moment ELBURN—St. Gall: Mary Lou (Mihm) Hellman, 88, Dec. 19. White, 91, Dec. 12; Marilou Hut- Mass Meditation The strengths you possess: In the ter, 92, Dec. 18; parable of the talents (Mt 25:14- ROCKFORD—Cathedral of Sunday, Jan. 10 (Baptism of the 30), the master, before going on a St. Peter: Robert E. Roman, 90, Lord): Sunday we celebrate the journey, entrusted his property to Dec. 3; Msgr. Thomas C. Brady, Baptism of the Lord. The U.S. his servants. Two of the servants 93, Dec. 9; Helen M. Whalen, 82, bishops’ pastoral on stewardship immediately went out and doubled Dec. 18; reminds us that baptism gives their investments, but the other ser- St. Anthony of Padua: Thomas all of His disciples a share in His vant did nothing. Those who used “Tom” Satterlee, 57, Dec. 20; Pa- priestly work and calls them “to their talents were justly rewarded, tricia “Pat” Creamer, 74, Dec. 26; offer up the world and all that is in but the servant who did nothing St. James: Kywa Moo, 18, Nov. it — especially themselves — to was let go. Take time to reflect on 28; Thomas, “Tom” Sabrowski, the Lord of all.” the talents given you. If the Master 89, Dec. 23; returned today, what would he say Courtesy of Sharon Hueckel SOMONAUK—St. John the about the way you have used your talents? What kind of responsibil- Baptist: Jean Wegener, 88, Dec. Life Moment 10; ity do you feel toward God regard- ing your talents? SOUTH BELOIT—St. Peter: Pray: That each of us may renew Larry Allen Weber, 79, Dec. 10; the commitment of our own bap- Courtesy of Parish Publications Antoinette “Annette” Wontor, 85, tism, renouncing sin and promis- “Stewardship” newsletter
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Koons, the author of the Baptism of the Lord” tologist Elizebeth Friedman of this remarkable book, is Read this — Jan. 10, 2:30-3:30 a.m. (1892-1980) who used her professor of philosophy at the complete (EWTN): Live broadcast from abilities to bring down gang- University of Texas at Austin, review as well the Sistine Chapel in the ster Al Capone and a Nazi spy and he declares that he makes as others at Vatican as Pope Francis cel- ring (TV-PG — parental guid- no claim to being a theologian. http://observer. ebrates the eucharistic liturgy ance suggested). A lifelong Lutheran (Missouri rockforddiocese.org/ for the Feast of the Baptism of “Captain America: The Win- Synod), he became a Catholic book-club-blog. the Lord. The program will be ter Soldier” (2014) — Jan. in 2007. rerun 6-7 p.m. (TV-G — gen- 12, 7-10 p.m. (ABC): The big His slim volume is a detailed The classic Lutheran posi- eral audience). guy with the red, white and explanation of why he believes tion has been that salvation “The Holy Mass” — Jan. 10, blue shield returns to save the that being Catholic makes more comes by faith alone, whereas 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. (EWTN): planet in this rousing follow- sense, historically, scripturally the classic Catholic position (CNS photo) “A Lutheran’s Case for Roman Archbishop Christophe up to 2011’s “Captain America: and theologically, than being has been that salvation requires Catholicism: Finding a Lost Path Pierre, apostolic nuncio to the The First Avenger,” and 2012’s Lutheran or, by extension, any both faith and good works. other kind of mainline Protes- Home” by Robert C. Koons. Cas- United States, is scheduled “The Avengers.” This popcorn “All other issues,” Koons tant. cade Books (Eugene, Oregon, to serve as celebrant and movie is sure to please fans of writes, “are secondary: ‘sola Influenced by St. John Henry 2020). 159 pp., $22. homilist at this celebration of the Marvel Comics superhero. Newman’s 19th-century “An scriptura,’ the role of the pa- the Mass for the Feast of the There is intense but largely derstandings of justification. Essay On the Development of pacy, purgatory, the veneration Baptism of the Lord at Wash- bloodless violence, including Christian Doctrine,” Koons and invocation of the saints, He then addresses the Lutheran ington’s Basilica of the Nation- gunplay. (CNS: A-II — adults became convinced the central and so on.” and Catholic positions on “sola al Shrine of the Immaculate and adolescents; MPA: PG- bone of contention between the Koons discusses in detail scriptura” (Scripture alone as Conception (TV-G). 13 — parents strongly cau- the historical and contempo- source of divine revelation). tioned. Some material may Catholic and Lutheran tradi- “The Codebreaker” — Jan. tions is the doctrine on justifi- rary understandings of both — Reviewed by Mitch Finley, be inappropriate for children 11, 8-9 p.m. (PBS): This cation. the Lutheran and Catholic un- Catholic News Service under 13) At the Movies Fatale Epic adventure, set in 1870 quences, potentially fatal profanities, oaths, rough and TAINS mature themes, oaths, Texas, in which a Confederate peril. crude language, an obscene a crass term. (Lionsgate) veteran (Tom Hanks) acciden- gesture. L A distant cousin to tally becomes the temporary O Promising Wonder Woman 1984 R 1987’s “Fatal Attrac- Soul guardian of a 10-year-old R Young Woman A-III (Warner Bros.) tion,” this revenge A-III orphan girl (Helena Zengel) (Focus) PG (Disney) This follow-up to thriller is as shocking as it is PG and reluctantly undertakes Vengeance-driven vigilantism As a middle school the 2017 outing preposterous and, for those a journey of hundreds of is the order of the day in this music teacher (voice of Jamie for the DC Comics inclined to take it seriously, miles to deliver her to her black comedy-tinged drama. Foxx) who yearns to be a jazz superhero (Gal Gadot) is an morally confused. Mature only surviving relatives. A The underlying message that pianist gets his big break, an entertaining, old-fashioned judgment is required to sort sequence premised on the a traumatized barista’s targets accident leaves his body in a popcorn movie that con- through the ethical tangles in potential sexual exploitation had it coming wastes the coma and sends his spirit into veys good messages about which the characters ensnare of Zengel’s character and an opportunity for this cinemati- the afterlife. This film’s depic- self-sacrifice, helping one’s themselves. immoral offscreen encounter cally impressive work to make tion of the other world, made neighbor and the twin evils PARENTS: THIS FILM CON- for Hanks’ character make this morally legitimate points up of both a Great Beyond of greed and selfishness. TAINS skewed morality, fare for grown-ups. about a genuine social evil. and a Great Before, is sterile Probably acceptable for older bloody violence and gunplay, PARENTS: THIS FILM CON- PARENTS: THIS FILM CON- and potentially confusing for teens. nongraphic adulterous activ- TAINS stylized violence, TAINS skewed values, in- impressionable viewers. Ac- PARENTS: THIS FILM CON- ity and marital lovemaking, implied nonmarital possibly tense but almost bloodless ceptable for well-catechized TAINS stylized violence, profane and crude language. adulterous sexual activity, violence, a rape theme, a older teens. implied nonmarital sexual Monster Hunter mature themes, including sex- premarital situation, drug use, PARENTS: THIS FILM CON- activity, a crass term. ual abuse, profanities, oaths, (Screen Gems) A-III crude and crass language. PG-13 In adapting the Monster Hunter A-III Pinocchio video game, writer-director PG-13 (Roadside) Salute Catholic Schools Week! Paul W.S. Anderson has Italian director constructed a film made Matteo Garrone’s live-action up almost entirely of action version of Carlo Collodi’s 1883 sequences untrammeled by novel, is scrupulously faith- exposition. ful to the grotesqueries of its PARENTS: THIS FILM CON- source material. As such, it TAINS intense combat vio- falls well short of what any- lence with gore, profanity. one might regard as straight- News of the forward family entertainment. A-III World Dubbed in English. PG-13 PARENTS: THIS FILM CON- (Universal) TAINS intense action se- Support Catholic Education with a CNS classifications MPAA ratings congratulatory message or advertisement. (Catholic News Service) (Motion Picture Association of America) A-I — general patronage G — general audiences, all ages admitted A-II — adults and adolescents PG — parental guidance suggested, some Ad Deadline: January 13 — Publication: January 22 A-III — adults material may not be suitable for chil- L — limited adult audiences, films dren Reserve your ad space NOW PG-13 — parents are strongly cautioned. whose problematic content many Some material may be inappropriate adults would find troubling for children under 13 — Contact — O — morally offensive R — restricted, under 17 requires accom- Kevin McCarthy @ 815-399-4300 ext. 385 panying parent or adult guardian For complete movie reviews, visit NC-17 — no one 17 and under admitted or email http://observer.rockforddiocese.org, scroll to the bottom and click on Movie Reviews. (age limit may vary) [email protected] 12 | FRIDAY JANUARY 8, 2021 | The Observer Diocesan Parishes Help Inspire Heroes
From page 1 shoulder saying ‘Remember a patient) at that time.” who’s in charge.’ The uncertainties of COVID “As a country, we have have been a difficulty, she fantastic medical research and says, in spite of “a lot of treatments, but we have to wonderful science.” Did a remember too there’s a higher patient pass the virus on power that’s surely in control. to their family; will As a nurse, I like to they have long term be in control, solve effects from it; how a situation ... will they respond and I’m gently to a particular reminded treatment? are somebody else is in all questions she (Photos provided) and others ask charge.” Sister Appolonia Irika of the Daughters of Mary Mother of Mercy outside of the Rockford Diocese, and two themselves. Her faith, other nurses look over some of the stones. “One way we treat (a Schwichow says, patient) works one day (but) “100 percent helps me with coming up with the idea. Her nurse-perspective of your family around you.” we do the same for another, cope. My faith is Number One “The beautiful part of all the this time in history, she says, Support from others is and it doesn’t,” Schwichow in my life ... (God) gifted me stones has nothing to do with includes “we’re all tired, important for the nighttime says. “As nurses we want to the passion and desire to be a religion,” she says. “It truly is exhausted, putting in extra staff even as they themselves help that person. Give us a nurse. That’s a calling.” about healing and supporting hours, making sure shifts are “treat our patients like we After viewing all the covered (and) patients cared want our families to be problem, we’ll take it on 100 an individual soul ... that is inspirational stones for properly. Everyone is treated.” percent ... we want to find that a remarkable and absolutely “carefully,” Schwichow chose stepping up and being there. “The world functions on solution, we want to cure it, we beautiful gift.” Be Still and Know, “because “It’s a remarkable field, daytime,” Westphal says, want to end it.” When asked about the it reminds me to relax my a calling, and I’m beyond noting that much of the Her work includes “trying to vaccine, Schwichow says, “I mind and know that God is honored to be a part of it.” community’s supportive efforts reassure the patient and team am slowly investigating all there, and He’s going to help happen during the day. avenues of it” and although she members (that) we’re doing me through any turmoil, any Lynne Westphal is an “Father Paul and others had is undecided at the moment, the best we can ... For me, it’s situation.” obstetrics nurse who is a the (inspirational) stones laid a very humbling experience. She credits Father White adds she may get it “in the charge nurse on 12-hour night out just for the night shift,” (It’s) God tapping me on the near future.” shifts. She is a member of she says. “I can’t tell you how Church of Holy Apostles and tickled, especially working has been a nurse for 35 years, nights, it was to see them. We 30 of those at Northwestern talked about it the entire week Medicine. ... (it) really has made us feel “COVID has been very special and supported and challenging for us,” she says. loved, and we are very grateful With labor and delivery, her to them.” staff is “taking care of people As with the other shifts, the at one of the most important many choices of sayings were days of their lives.” pondered by Westphal and the There is space on her unit for others. COVID patients, and she notes “I picked ‘You Are Loved.’ the staff is “really conscious of It was a hard choice though,” our care of COVID patients. Westphal says, adding that she It’s still the same challenges ... first kept her stone at work, on a daily basis, with COVID but now she has it “at home on top of it.” on my coffee table, where I sit Whether or not a new and decompress when I come mom has the virus, protocols home.” are in place, and Westphal Asked about what keeps Obstetrics nurse Lynne Westphal is a member of the Church of Holy Apostles in McHenry. experienced the difficulties her going, Westphal says, firsthand early on when her “Certainly my faith has ... we daughter delivered her second work long hours and you get child the first week of the tired. We rely on faith and on March COVID lockdown. the strength of one another The boy was born with (and) on the community.” She “certain really special needs also names support from her that needed attention from parish and pastor as well as (medical services) in Chicago her family. and Philadelphia,” “We believe because of Westphal says. our faith that there is a “When she light at the end of the delivered, I tunnel,” she says. “It was working won’t be forever.” and was Her hopes for there, but the vaccines are the next day that “it will slow and I was not on stop the transmission of shift and was not this terrible disease, and that allowed to be there. That was people will be lining up to get very, very difficult, (but) I it ... We have to be trustful and follow Northwestern policy have faith that this is the right (with) no exceptions in time of thing to do (to help) make it quarantine ... So I can really ‘way more manageable.” She identify with the families.” was scheduled to receive the Her grandson now “is vaccine that very week. thriving and doing well,” “It’s important that everyone Westphal says, and the take it,” she says, “not only to experience “keeps me protect yourself, but also to grounded. I know both sides protect the people you love.” ... (of) not being able to have