LUMEN magazine

Winter 2025 | annualcatholicappeal.com

LUMEN For Friends of the Archdiocese of Chicago

Together we bring light

Passing on the light of Christ “We are called to pass our faith to

— Cardinal Blase Cupich

CAMPAIGN UPDATE Campaign goal:

The Generation to Generation campaign is a five-year, $300 million effort to renew our Church and strengthen its mission for years to come.

Together, we will invest in the future of our faith by focusing on four critical areas for growth: • Strengthening local parishes — ensuring vibrant, welcoming communities of worship and service • Igniting spiritual renewal — deepening faith formation and evangelization across all generations • Supporting our priests — caring for those who dedicate their lives to guiding us in faith • Aiding vulnerable communities — reaching those in greatest need with compassion and hope

Your participation will help ensure that the Church continues to shine brightly — from this generation to the next.

$300 million

Raised to date:

$204 million

68%

Learn more and join us at archchicago.org/gentogen.

Monika Wnuk

the next generation of disciples who will continue to bring the light of Christ to the world.”

INSIDE THIS ISSUE Feature story

Together we bring light to a world in need 18

PLANNED GIVING Easy ways to leave a legacy

20 GIVING SOCIETIES 21

DISTRIBUTION OF FUNDS 2024 Annual Catholic Appeal

Karen Callaway/Chicago Catholic

22 WHAT’S COOKING? A taste of the season with Cardinal Cupich and Father Cameli

The Archdiocese of Chicago concluded its National Migration Week festivities with a closing Mass on Sept. 28, 2025, at Holy Name Cathedral.

04 FROM THE CARDINAL

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05 THEOLOGY 101 Don’t despair, don’t presume

CARDINAL’S JUBILEE A joyful celebration of 50 years of faithful service

Front cover: Pope Leo XIV at St. Peter’s Square (© Vatican Media).

CONTACTS Brendan Keating, JD Chief Development Officer 312.534.5271 bkeating@archchicago.org

06 PATRON SAINTS Saint Bridget of Sweden

Melissa M. Babcock, CFRE Senior Director of Development 312.534.8197 mbabcock@archchicago.org

08 FEATURE STORY Together we bring light to a world in need

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SCHOLARSHIP SUPPORT A champion of school choice: One doctor’s commitment to Chicago Catholic schools

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OUR MINISTRIES A ministry of presence: Father Jackson Colon’s calling at Stroger Hospital

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SPIRITUAL RENEWAL Our Lady of Mercy Parish is inspiring a culture of renewal

Barbara Shea Collins Director, Annual Catholic Appeal 312.534.7944 bcollins@archchicago.org Jose Piñones Director of Giving 312.534.8278 jpinones@archchicago.org Carla Beecher Editor, Lumen magazine

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FROM THE CARDINAL

Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,

The theme of the 2026 Annual Catholic Appeal reminds us of our calling: Together we bring light.

It is a challenging calling that addresses seemingly insurmountable odds. It is also a calling that in these past months has gained new energy with the pastoral leadership of Pope Leo XIV. He reminds us, as his motto clearly states, that we are one in the one Christ. He also leads us by carrying forward the compassionate and courageous vision of Pope Francis.

The light that we bring to the world is Jesus Christ, victor over sin and death. When we carry the truth, the mercy, the service, and the healing of the Risen Lord, we bring his light to the world. We are assured that the darkness cannot overcome his light.

There are many ways we bring the light — in our families, in our workplace, in schools, in communities, and in our nation. It is always the light of Christ that will never disappoint. Our words and our actions, what we say and what we do, how we contribute and sustain each other — all these enable us to bring the light of Christ to our world. One particular way of bringing light is through the Annual Catholic Appeal.

Kyle Flubacker Photography

As followers of Jesus Christ and as a people of faith, we stand as a unique presence in our wounded world. News stories speak of an unrelenting darkness evident in the wars and the violence we visit upon each other, in the merciless greed that pushes others into poverty, and in the willful neglect and degradation of our natural and human resources. It adds up to a dark story. It is not, however, the whole story. In the darkness, we stand out because we dare to bring light. It is, of course, the light of Christ and we bring it together to the world and to those most in need. Oftentimes, we express our daring to bring light in the darkness by lighting a candle in church.

The generosity of our people of the Archdiocese of Chicago has left a deep impression on me. You have always been ready to carry the light by offering a helpful hand through the Appeal. And stories of that generosity are in this issue of Lumen. Through your generosity, you have supported parishes in need, Catholic schools, religious education, ministerial formation, peacemaking, respect for life, and worldwide disaster relief through Catholic Relief Services. You have brought light to darkness. I am grateful for your witness. The beneficiaries of your generosity are also grateful.

May God abundantly bless you as together you continue to hear and respond to the call to bring light.

Sincerely yours in Christ,

Archbishop of Chicago

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LUMEN | Winter 2025 | annualcatholicappeal.com

THEOLOGY 101

BY FATHER LOUIS J. CAMELI, STD

Don’t despair, don’t presume

consolation for people, especially As I hear that question, I am those who find themselves engaged reminded of the song “When the Saints Go Marching In.” In effect, the in significant spiritual struggles.

At the same time, Jesus says in man in the crowd is saying that he response to the man’s question, wants to be in that number when the saints go marching in. Perhaps more “Strive to enter through the narrow gate.” Yes, of course, he says that God bluntly, he is checking out his odds wants us to be saved. God, however, for reaching the heavenly goal. does not impose himself on us. The As we consider the whole invitation is freely given. And note Gospel passage (Luke 13:22–30), it well that it is an invitation that calls is noteworthy that Jesus does not for our genuine response. We know give the man a direct answer. Rather, that all is grace, everything is a gift he gives him both a consoling and of God. But that gift is meant to be challenging perspective for his life — received and accepted. “Strive to and for ours as well. enter through the narrow gate.” We Toward the end of the passage, know that narrow gate is Jesus, as Jesus says, “And people will come he describes himself in chapter 10 from the east and the west and from of John’s gospel. Striving to enter the north and the south and will through that gate means a complete recline at the table in the kingdom and total attachment to him, who of God.” With these words, Jesus is the way, the life, and the truth. In teaches that God wants all people short, God wants us to be saved, and to be saved, to come to the fullness God wants our commitment. of life in the kingdom of God. As I step back from this passage, The universalism of salvation is I detect two takeaways that are in prominent in Luke’s gospel. God’s the title of this article: Don’t despair, embrace is as wide as the whole human family. Theologians call this don’t presume. Clearly, even in teaching God’s universal salvific our worst moments of failure and will. It is a great source of hope and even sin, God is inviting us, urging

Natalie Battaglia Photography

In chapter 13 of Saint Luke’s Gospel, Jesus is making his journey to Jerusalem. There he will meet his destiny, surrendering his life on the cross, rising from the dead, and sending the Holy Spirit upon his followers. As he makes that journey, a man in the crowd raises a question that touches all of us: Lord, will only a few people be saved?

us on the path of salvation, and walking with us. We cannot give in to despair. At the same time, we have a responsibility to cooperate with God’s grace, doing what we can do to move forward as God wants to.

Ultimately, the one thing that God wants us to do is to return the gift of ourselves to him in love. That is our commitment to Jesus Christ empowered by the Holy Spirit.

In the end, the Christian life is not about cheery optimism or dark pessimism. Rather, it is living with the realism of knowing God’s loving and saving will for us coupled with our responsibility to return that love with the gift and commitment of our lives.

Father Louis J. Cameli, STD, is the cardinal’s delegate for Christian formation and mission for the Archdiocese of Chicago.

Below: The Forerunners of Christ With Saints and Martyrs, Fra Angelico, c. 1395 – 1455, The National Gallery, London.

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PATRON SAINTS

BY FATHER LOUIS J. CAMELI, STD

My introduction to Saint Bridget of Sweden happened when I was a seminarian studying in Rome. I took a short break from studies with two of my classmates, and we traveled to Lugano, Switzerland. We stayed in a guest house run by the Bridgettine sisters. In the spirit of their foundress, Saint Bridget, they combined an active and contemplative way of living. They prayed for several hours each day. They also ran the guest house, which was far more than a hotel. Their mission, as they explained it to me, was ecumenism by way of hospitality. Almost all their guests were Protestants from Scandinavia. Their impressive life of prayer and action prompted me to learn more about Saint Bridget.

Bridget or Birgitta lived between 1303 and 1373. She married young, at 14 years of age. She had eight children among whom was another saint, her daughter, Saint Catherine of Sweden. After her husband’s death, she founded a religious congregation for women and men, who lived separately but worshiped together and shared in a common commitment to prayer, poverty and charity.

A woman as abbess had administrative oversight for both branches, but the men cared for the spiritual needs of the members. The official name of this religious family was and is the Order of the Most Holy Savior. Informally, it was known as the Bridgettines.

With the Protestant reformation in the 16th century, the Bridgettines largely vanished, especially in Scandinavia. In 1911, Elizabeth Hasselblad, a Swedish nurse and convert to Catholicism, re-founded a branch of the order, which now has houses in Europe, Asia and North America. Elizabeth Hasselblad was canonized by Pope Francis in 2016.

From her early years, Saint Bridget had mystical and visionary experiences. Many of these experiences center on the Passion of the Lord. Attachment to the Lord in his Passion became a hallmark of her spirituality and the spirituality of her order. In fact, this is reflected in the distinctive habit of the nuns. On their veil, there is a crisscross of white bands that form a kind of crown.

On that crown are five red circles representing the five wounds of Christ.

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Public domain. Modifications made by Beao.

Saint Bridget of Sweden

Birgitta of Sweden on an altarpiece in Salem church, Södermanland, Sweden. Hermann Rode (late 15th century).

Obviously, Saint Bridget was very much absorbed in prayer. At the same time, she played a very active role in the life of the Church — for example, by urging the pope to return to Rome from Avignon in France. She was also a strong voice for the reform of life among the clergy and religious of her time.

At the heart of her life was her contemplation of and union with the Passion of the Lord Jesus. Grounded in that experience, she raised up a religious family of men and women and offered a prophetic call for Church reform. Here is a sample of her prayer inspired by her experiences: Eternal praise be to you, my Lord Jesus Christ, for the time you endured on the cross the greatest torments and sufferings for us sinners.

The sharp pain of your wounds fiercely penetrated even to your blessed soul and cruelly pierced your most sacred heart till finally you sent forth your spirit in peace, bowed your head, and humbly commended yourself into the hands of God your Father, and your whole body remained cold in death.

Blessed may you be, my Lord Jesus Christ. You redeemed our souls … and in your mercy you led them from exile back to eternal life.

CAMPAIGN UPDATE

A chain of love and faith at Our Lady of Guadalupe Associate Pastor Byron Macias of Our Lady of Guadalupe in South Chicago.

to reach our goal, since many of our Parishioners from all walks of life parishioners were not familiar with have answered the call of the Generation to Generation campaign. what a capital campaign even was.”

That perspective soon shifted.

It resonates deeply with families “As I learned more about the heart of who want to see their parishes Generation to Generation, I began remain safe, strong and vibrant for to see it as a way to provide for those future generations. The campaign also demonstrates that success is not who will come after us in the Catholic Church,” he said. “As I worked with confined to the wealthiest parishes our Youth Ministry, I realized: we — it is possible in every community. are doing this for them. It is, in many That was the purpose of the initial ways, a beautiful chain reaction of pilot wave: to serve as proof of faith across time.” concept. The first wave, which In practical terms, Our Lady of occurred between last January and Guadalupe identified pressing needs June 30th, gathered momentum and through the parish preparation phase. brought more parishes into the fold.

Their share of the funds is supporting “Our Lady of Guadalupe in roof repairs, tuckpointing and South Chicago joined in the first window replacements. While these wave last January, and their results may sound like routine maintenance were extraordinary, setting a high projects, they are critical investments. bar and inspiring others across the As Father Byron and his parishioners archdiocese to aim high as well,” said recognized, preserving the parish Alex Fruin, executive director of the building today safeguards the faith campaign. community’s future.

For Pastor John Britto and Alongside the bricks and mortar, Associate Pastor Byron Macias of Our something deeper took shape. “The Lady of Guadalupe in South Chicago, campaign is not only about dollars the journey began with a bit of hesiraised; it is about love in action, about tation. “When I first heard about the gratitude for those before us, and campaign, I honestly did not know about preparing a strong foundation what to expect,” recalled Father Byron, who is coordinating campaign for the future,” he said. “Looking back, what began with uncertainty efforts for the parish. “We were has become a conviction: Generation entering unfamiliar territory, and I wasn’t sure whether we would be able to Generation is a shared response of

love, faith and responsibility. Truly, one generation caring for the next.”

That conviction was felt by those working closely with the parish as well. Often, campaign teams encounter hesitations when introducing a new initiative. But Father Byron’s openness and energy made all the difference. He embraced collaboration with the archdiocese and campaign staff, ensuring not only that the parish met its needs, but that the community could see the effort as part of a larger mission.

Looking ahead, Father Byron has advice for fellow priests who may find themselves on the threshold of such an undertaking. “I would encourage my brother priests to jump into this effort wholeheartedly. At the very least, you will spend time with your parishioners and come to know them more deeply as people of God. You will discover parishioners who love the Church and want to share not only their resources, but also their talents, their prayers, their hopes, and their very lives.”

His encouragement is grounded in experience. What began as a campaign with practical goals has become a powerful reminder of what it means to be a church. “Yes, it is heavy work,” Father Byron said. “But it is holy work. And it is worth it.”

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Natalie Battaglia Photography

BY CARLA BEECHER

SECTION HEAD FEATURE STORY

BY CARLA BEECHER

Together we bring to a world in need

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LUMEN | Winter 2024 | annualcatholicappeal.com

BY FATHER LOUIS J. CAMELI, STD

light

Toward the end of his life, the great German Jesuit theologian Karl Rahner used a powerful metaphor to describe the state of Christian faith and the state of our world. He spoke of a “wintry season.”

The image suggests that our lives are enveloped by a cold darkness, the stuff of winter. Rahner’s life spanned the 20th century with its wars, genocides, and political upheavals. He saw that the Christian faith and the Church were not spared the wintry season, and this was manifested in the decline of outward religious observance. The movements of secularization, the dominance of a scientific-technological mindset, and the rise of a political order without sustaining values — all this contributed to a dark and cold season for the world and for the Christian faith.

Although Rahner spoke from the perspective of the 20th century, his assessment of the presence of a wintry season remains largely true in the 21st century. He describes our world and the challenge to our faith.

We know well the shape of that wintry season. We see it played out in the evening news that speaks of wars and widespread human suffering. We feel it in the distance we sense from each other, even the suspicions and fears that

we might harbor about each other. We know it in our own lives with our anxieties and our often grim takes on the future and the future of our children.

In this context, the theme for the 2026 Annual Catholic Appeal is both timely and challenging: Together we bring light. In other words, in the wintry season there is a pathway for us to illuminate the darkness and to warm the cold. Doing this together stamps it with the inspiration of Pope Leo XIV, who

Still Life with Lighted Candle, 1627, Pieter Claesz (1597/1598 – 1661), Mauritshuis, The Hague.

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FEATURE STORY (cont.)

“For once you were darkness, but now in the Lord you are light. Live as children of light — for the fruit of the light is found in all that is good and right and true.”

(Ephesians 5:8–9) has from the very first days son of the Father, that life of his pontificate called came to be. “… and the life us to claim our unity as was the light of all people.”

(John 1:1, 4) In other words, we live out our Christian the light that we bring is vocation. He drew from Jesus Christ. He said of his spiritual father, Saint Augustine, for his motto: in himself, “I am the light of the world.” (John 9:5) illo uno unum, “in the one In our beginning, if we Christ, we are one.” And were baptized as infants, that has been his vision from his roots in Chicago, at our baptism our parents to Peru, to Rome, and and godparents received a now to the world and the lit candle with these words: Church universal.

“Receive the light of Christ.

If together we are to Parents and godparents, bring light to our world, this light is entrusted to you to be kept burning where does it begin? brightly. These children of What are the practical yours have been enlightimplications of this ened by Christ. They are process? How do we take steps and move that light to walk always as children forward? And perhaps of the light. May they keep the most fundamental the flame of faith alive in question: What exactly their hearts. When the is that light? These are Lord comes, may they go questions that we need to out to meet him with all explore. the saints in the heavenly kingdom.” Because we are In the beginning united to Christ the light Saint John’s gospel in the of the world, the Lord says very first chapter tells us, to us: “You are the light of “In the beginning was the world.” (Matthew 5:14) the Word.” It was through Similarly, Paul tells the that Word, the eternal Ephesians who they are 10

LUMEN | Winter 2025 | annualcatholicappeal.com

and, therefore, how they are to live: “For once you were darkness, but now in the Lord you are light. Live as children of light — for the fruit of the light is found in all that is good and right and true.” (Ephesians 5:8–9)

We bring light Together we bring light.

To know exactly what that means, we must consider what it does not mean.

It does not mean that we bring good cheer and try to buoy up spirits in an often-dispirited world.

It does not mean that we essentially focus on communicating human comfort to those who are troubled, although that may well be a consequence of the light we bring.

It does not mean a kind of generic sympathy in the face of loss or pain, although that, too, might be an additional consequence.

is the light of all nations.”

(LG, 1) The light is more than a feeling or an attitude. It is really and truly a person, the person of Jesus Christ.

And he is the light that breaks the darkness, because he entered the darkest corners of human existence, deep into the realms of sin and death.

Saint Paul then says that he nailed sin and death on the tree of his cross. (See Colossians 2:14 and 1 Peter 2:24.) He destroyed them and passed beyond them in his resurrection. And so, he is the light that has conquered darkness.

We who are joined to him in faith and baptism follow his passage and share in his light. Again, Saint Paul writes: “[I give] thanks to the Father, who has enabled you to share in the inheritance of the saints in light.

He has rescued us from

“The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not overcome it.”

(John 1:5) From the Scriptures and from the living faith of the Church, we have come to know that the light we bring is the living person of Jesus Christ. As the opening words of the Second Vatican Council’s Constitution on the Church proclaim: “Christ

the power of darkness and transferred us into the kingdom of his beloved Son, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.”

(Colossians 1:12–14) We bring light by being a reflection of the light who is Jesus Christ. Joined to

© Palace of the Dukes of Lorraine – Lorraine Museum, Nancy / photo J.-Y. Lacôte.

God, the people of God, not simply a constellation of individual believers.

When we are a stronger community of faith, we will be a stronger light in the world.

With hope and courage As we survey our world and our own lives, we know that the forces of darkness are truly formidable. Still, we stand with the light and for the light. We do not give in to the temptation of discouragement. The light of Christ serves us as a beacon of hope. We are convinced of the truth of the words in John’s gospel that speak of Jesus Christ the Eternal Word: “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not overcome it.” (John 1:5) With practical love Together we bring light when we lovingly do what we need to do for others.

It may be a spoken word of hope and consolation.

It may be an act of service Saint Jerome reading, 17th century, workshop of Georges de La Tour, Lorraine Museum. in an hour of need. It can also be a charitable contribution that supports him, we share his light security, because we see Second Vatican Council’s people in need. It can also that breaks through the and know that everything Constitution on the be a gift to the Annual dark and cold wintry is in God’s hands.

Church: “God has … willed Catholic Appeal that season of a world living to make men and women supports communities apart from God. This light Together holy and save them, not as and individuals on their illuminates everything and We bring light to a world individuals without any journey of faith. In everyone. It allows us and that is so much in need of it. bond or link between them, these different practical others to see what is real, We do so, however, not as but rather to make them possibilities, we clearly true, good, and beautiful individual bearers of light. into a people who might hear the words of Jesus in beyond the shadows We bring light together. acknowledge him and his Sermon on the Mount: of sin and death that can Again, as Pope Leo XIV has serve him in holiness.”

“Let your light shine before envelop and darken our reminded us in illo uno (LG, 9) We go to God others, so that they may world. This light scatters unum, “in the one Christ, together, and we carry see your good works and darkness and warms we are one.” This echoes the the light together. That is give glory to your Father in hearts. It creates genuine momentous words of the why we are the Church of heaven.” (Matthew 5:16) 11

CARDINAL’S JUBILEE

BY CARLA BEECHER

A joyful celebration of 50 years of faithful service CARDINAL BLASE J. CUPICH’S GOLDEN JUBILEE GALA On a late September evening as the first signs of autumn began to color the city, more than 1,300 guests gathered at the historic Hilton Chicago to honor a remarkable milestone: the Golden Jubilee of Cardinal Blase J. Cupich, commemorating his 50 years of devoted priestly ministry.

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harmonies, while Huguito Gutierrez and his band, Sol Andino, brought the sounds of Peru and Bolivia to life with traditional Andean music.

Tyrone Pittman and the Our Lady of Africa Ensemble brought the spirit of praise and celebration to the evening with soulful, joyful song.

Most notably, the gala raised over $1 million for the archdiocese’s Parish Vitality Fund, an important initiative that supports low-income

parishes and Catholic schools across the region. The generosity of the evening’s benefactors stands as a powerful tribute to Cardinal Cupich’s enduring commitment to justice, education, and pastoral care for all.

It was a night of faith, fellowship and thanksgiving — recognizing not only a milestone in one man’s ministry, but the shared mission of a Catholic community united in hope and service.

WITH GRATITUDE TO OUR SPONSORS The evening’s success was made possible through the generous support of numerous individuals, foundations, societies and corporations whose commitment to the mission of the Church helped bring this joyful celebration to life.

For a full list of all those who supported the Cardinal’s Golden Jubilee Gala, please visit archchicago.org/goldenjubilee.

PRESENTING SPONSORS

PLATINUM SPONSORS

Jim and Cate Denny

Gerald and Jennifer Beeson, Citadel LLC

Hobson/Lucas Family Foundation

Catholic Extension Society

Misericordia

The Crown Family

Chip and Ellen Mulaney

Mary and Paul Finnegan

Molly and Jim Perry

GCM Grosvenor

Patrick G. and Shirley W. Ryan Foundation

Mark and Mary LaRose

LUMEN | Winter 2025 | annualcatholicappeal.com

The Walsh Group Wintrust Financial Corporation The Wehmer Family Edandor Foundation

Kyle Flubacker Photography

Serving as master of ceremonies, esteemed retired Channel 7 newscaster Alan Krashesky welcomed guests to an evening of reflection, celebration, and profound gratitude. The event opened with prayer, grounding the evening in faith, followed by a moving tribute video that chronicled Cardinal Cupich’s journey — from his early days as a seminarian to his decades of pastoral leadership and service to the Church.

Cardinal Cupich offered heartfelt remarks, sharing memories from his vocation and expressing deep appreciation for the many people who accompanied him along the way. He was joined by His Eminence Christophe Cardinal Pierre, apostolic nuncio to the United States, who delivered stirring words about the enduring impact of Cardinal Cupich’s ministry, both locally and nationally.

Guests were treated to a festive dinner and a vibrant program of cultural and musical performances that reflected the rich diversity of the archdiocese. The St. Jerome Croatian Church Choir filled the ballroom with their resonant

SECTION HEAD

BY CARLA BEECHER

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SCHOLARSHIP SUPPORT

BY CARLA BEECHER

A champion of school choice: One doctor’s commitment to Chicago Catholic schools When Dr. Eleonor MendozaGonzales reflects on her life, she traces a path from the bustling streets of Manila as a child to the heart of the Midwest, guided along the way by her faith, family, and an enduring belief in the power of education.

Born in the Philippines, Dr. Mendoza-Gonzales grew up in the Catholic Church. She recalls her mother being very active in their community, volunteering for the PTA, assisting the nuns at school, and supporting efforts to build St. Michael’s Catholic Church in her hometown of Iligan City, Mindanao.

“She was always going out of her way to help others,” she said.

Dr. Mendoza-Gonzales graduated medical school in 1972 and arrived in New York two years later to begin residency training in pediatrics and pediatric cardiology.

“Residency training in New York is no joke,” she laughs. “At that time, we worked 120-hour weeks.”

After residency, she moved to the Quad Cities, where she met her late husband, Dr. Ernesto Gonzales. “We had trained in the same hospital system in New York but didn’t actually cross paths until then,” she said. They married, raised their two sons, Rick and Philip, and built careers — she in Moline, he in Davenport.

A calling beyond medicine As her sons entered school, Dr. Mendoza-Gonzales began paying closer attention to education policy, particularly the movement toward school choice. “I grew up in Catholic schools, and I knew how valuable they were,” she says. “But I also saw how difficult it could be for families to afford tuition. It seemed to me that if public funds were meant to support a child’s education, then the money should follow the child, whether to a public school or a Catholic one.”

In the 1980s, she became aware of national efforts to support school

From left are Andy Craig, Jose Piñones, Dr. Mendoza-Gonzales, Julie Delaney and Father Bruce DeRammelaere.

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choice for students. She joined the cause, writing letters and organizing mothers at Catholic schools to spread the word. “I wasn’t political,” she says. “I just wanted to help children have the same opportunities I had.”

“Even today, I always try to support it,” she explains. “It’s about giving families real choices.”

A timely gift That conviction resurfaced more recently when Dr. MendozaGonzales read an editorial in The Wall Street Journal about a Catholic school in Chicago’s northwest suburbs needing $400,000 to stay open. Ultimately, the school had to close due to declining enrollment.

“It was a sad moment,” she says. “But I decided to go ahead with the donation anyway, directing it to scholarships across the archdiocese.”

At first, she preferred to remain anonymous. But then she reconsidered. “If my gift can inspire others to give, it’s worth it,” she said.

Looking ahead Today, Dr. Mendoza-Gonzales continues to practice her faith, support her community, and advocate for Catholic education.

In Iowa, where she lives, “Catholic schools did very well during COVID,” she said. “They kept their doors open, they kept kids learning. It’s not just about religion — it’s about caring for America’s future.”

For her, education remains the most powerful way to shape that future. “I came here as an immigrant because I believed in America,” she says. “I still do. And if I can help even a little to ensure that children have a chance to learn, to grow, and to practice the Catholic faith — then that is something worthwhile and I’m happy to support it.”

OUR MINISTRIES

BY CARLA BEECHER

A ministry of presence: Father Jackson Colon’s calling at Stroger Hospital When Father Jackson Colon walks the halls of John H. Stroger Jr. Hospital of Cook County, he doesn’t carry a stethoscope or medical chart. Instead, he brings something far less tangible but often just as healing: his presence.

Natalie Battaglia Photography

“For me,” he said recently, “it’s not about fixing people’s problems. It’s about being with them in their pain — listening, comforting, and simply showing that they are not alone.”

Born and raised in Haiti, Father Colon’s path to this ministry has been long and deeply faithful. He attended Catholic elementary and high school before earning a bachelor’s degree in philosophy from the Grand Séminaire Notre Dame of Haiti.

Arriving in Boston in 1985, he studied English and American culture at Boston University before beginning theology studies in Toronto. He earned a master of divinity from Mundelein Seminary and was ordained in 1990 by Cardinal Joseph Bernardin for the Archdiocese of Chicago — a moment that, he said, “felt like coming home to God’s purpose for me.” He speaks French, Creole, English and Spanish.

For the next two decades, Father Colon served in parishes across the archdiocese: St. Mary’s in Evanston, Santa Maria del Popolo in Mundelein, Sacred Heart in Melrose Park, Holy Family in Waukegan, and St. Ignatius in Rogers Park. His ministry was rooted in parish life, where he built long-term relationships and guided communities in faith.

He describes his ministry as one In 2014, when the archdiocese of presence rather than preaching. took over responsibility for Catholic “Sometimes a patient just needs chaplaincy at Stroger Hospital — a ministry long cared for by the Jesuits silence. Other times, they simply need to talk. I’m there to listen and to — Father Colon felt another calling. let Christ work through me.”

He became the first diocesan priest He recalls moments of joy — appointed as coordinator of the when a patient receives the Eucharist hospital’s Catholic chaplaincy. for the first time in years, or when “It was a new kind of mission,” family members find solace after he said. “A place where faith meets a loved one’s anointing. “I’ve seen human suffering face to face.” people’s faces change from anguish to Today, he and one Jesuit priest peace,” he said. “In those moments, serve as the only full-time Catholic grace overflows — not just for them, chaplains at Stroger, covering the but for me too.” hospital’s vast units — from trauma After 35 years of priesthood, and ICU to pediatrics, oncology, and Father Colon has learned that neonatal care. They also oversee both parish and hospital ministry daily Mass, memorial services, reveal the same truth: Faith is and the administration of the most powerful when shared in sacraments, often with no paid staff vulnerability. “In a parish, you walk or volunteers to assist. with people over years,” he said. “In “The work can be exhausting,” the hospital, you meet them for just Father Colon admits. “We’re on a moment — often at the edge of life call from morning until night. But and death. But Christ is present in our reward is not in recognition or both places.” pay. It’s in the peace we help bring Though the work is demanding to a patient’s final moments or the and often unnoticed, Father comfort offered to a grieving family.”

Colon sees it as a privilege. “Every Because Stroger is a public interruption, every late-night call is a hospital, chaplains must minister to reminder that someone needs God’s people of all faiths — or none. “We love,” he said. “That’s what I’ve been never ignore a patient’s approach simply because they are not Catholic,” called to do — to be an instrument of Christ’s comfort and healing.” he explains. “As chaplains, we represent God’s compassion to all.”

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SPIRITUAL RENEWAL

Natalie Battaglia Photography

Our Lady of Mercy Parish is inspiring a culture of renewal

As you drive north on Kedzie Avenue, you might do a doubletake when a beautiful golden dome comes into view in the Father Thomas Byrne and Nicholas Carlson Albany Park neighborhood. Atop the dome sits Our Blessed Mother — hands outstretched, watching over the people who live in Our Lady of Mercy Parish (OLM).

The current parish was formed in 2021 when OLM united with the former parishes of Immaculate Heart of Mary and Resurrection. Father Thomas Byrne came to OLM in 2023 to pastor a multilingual flock who have recently embarked on the hard and rewarding work of renewal.

To assist the parish as it builds a culture of renewal, the archdiocese’s Department of Parish Vitality and Mission is supporting it with additional resources, including naming Nicholas Carlson as its parish renewal leader, or PRL. Carlson assists Father Byrne by working with a small evangelization team of faithful parishioners to live a unified vision, cultivate a community focused on prayer and hospitality, accompany others on their

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LUMEN | Winter 2025 | annualcatholicappeal.com

spiritual journey, and encourage the leadership team to develop and empower other leaders.

Father Byrne is inspired by this hardworking team. “This investment in our parish has really made a difference in our life together. I have never felt more supported as a priest and as a leader than I do right now.

Our parish has always been a busy place, but now we are focusing our energies on evangelization in a totally new way,” he said.

According to Carlson, the enthusiastic evangelization leaders are deeply integrated into parish life and consistently seek opportunities to invite others to encounter Jesus. As they share their love of God, they are

BY CARLA BEECHER

“We are looking to build on what many others have already done over the years by focusing on a culture of growth by leaning into evangelization as the heart of all the parish’s ministries.”

Natalie Battaglia Photography

Natalie Battaglia Photography

to welcome newcomers because there is already so much faith here, born of a deep encounter with Jesus,” he said.

“Our parish is large and diverse, with people from all over the world — from the Philippines to Ecuador, Guatemala, Mexico, and many other areas of Latin America,” he said. This diversity is a source of pride and vitality at Our Lady of Mercy, where parishioners embrace the global experience of the Church. “There’s something happening helping shift the parish culture from maintenance to here every day and every night. Our parish is really like mission. “We are looking to build on what many others home for many people,” Fr. Byrne explains. have already done over the years by focusing on a culture “Our Lady of Mercy Parish has so many community of growth by leaning into evangelization as the heart of activities,” added Carlson. “Whether it’s part of an all the parish’s ministries. The evangelization team is ongoing faith-practice or the start of a new tradition, our actively engaged in implementing that shift.” events are welcoming to all. OLM is a beautiful example Rather than doing the same things in the same old of a multilingual, multicultural parish that offers Mass in way, the leadership team is trying new approaches to English and Spanish, in addition to a fully bilingual Mass. engage people. “We are integrating prayer and what we “As the vision of renewal comes to life at OLM, we call ‘radical hospitality’ into existing events in hopes of are inspired by parishioners leadership, commitment inspiring those who are new to Catholicism or who simply to prayer, hospitality, and accompaniment of others. want to explore their faith more deeply,” Carlson said.

We know that the Holy Spirit is at work and continues Father Byrne has watched parishioners form strong to bless our parish community and all of us in the connections by sharing their faith. “Our people are able Archdiocese of Chicago,” said Carlson.

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PLANNED GIVING

EASY WAYS TO LEAVE A LEGACY There are several tax-wise ways to serve our community with the love of Christ. You can make a profound impact on our parishes and Catholic schools — both now and in the future — using any of the giving opportunities listed here.

We’re here to help Please contact our Planned Giving Team at 312.534.7959 or archchicago@archchicago.org to inform us of your legacy gift or request additional information. You can also visit myimpact.archchicago.org to download free resources.

“The gift of faith is something that has been handed down to us, something that we have received.

So, the question is, what will we hand on to the next generation? What contribution will we bequeath so that their faith lives can flourish?”

— Cardinal Cupich

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LUMEN | Winter 2025 | annualcatholicappeal.com

IMMEDIATE IMPACT If your goal is to …

Reduce your taxable income

Then consider …

Qualified charitable distribution (QCD)

How to make your gift

Those age 70.5+ can authorize their IRA custodian to directly transfer up to $108,000 annually from their IRA to qualified charities, tax-free.

1. Contact your IRA custodian for

instructions.

2. Then, contact your parish or the

archdiocese for additional information your IRA custodian will need to process the gift.

Benefits to you

If age 73 or older, the amount transferred can satisfy your required minimum distribution.

The transfer does not generate taxable income, which may reduce your annual income level.

FUTURE IMPACT If your goal is to …

Make a gift that costs you nothing now

Then consider …

Bequest

How to make your gift

Name the Archdiocese of Chicago or one of our parishes, schools or ministries as a beneficiary in your will or trust, and designate a specific amount or a percentage of the remainder for their charitable purpose.

Benefits to you

Flexibility to modify your gift at any time and for any reason.

Retain control of your assets.

BY KRYSTINA M. CAMPBELL, JD

Reduce or eliminate capital gains tax

Make a large gift at little to no cost to you

Appreciated securities

Life insurance

1. Please complete the electronic Letter of Intention form, which

Irrevocably designate your parish and/or the Archdiocese of Chicago as owner and beneficiary of an existing life insurance policy.

is available at archchicago.org/stockgiftform.

2. Once you have submitted the form, you will receive a

confirmation email with detailed instructions on how to complete your gift of stock. Please follow those instructions.

3. If you have any questions, please contact Karen Whitehead in

If your policy is not yet paid up, you will make contributions of cash to your parish and/or the Archdiocese of Chicago to cover future premium payments.

the Archdiocese of Chicago Stewardship and Development Office at 312.534.7461 or kwhitehead@archchicago.org.

You may receive a charitable income tax deduction for the full market value of the stock (up to a maximum of 30% of your adjusted gross income).

If your policy is paid up, you will receive an immediate income tax deduction based on the policy value.

Avoid paying the capital gains tax on the increased value of the stock.

For a policy not yet paid up, you will receive a charitable deduction for any continuing premium payments you make on the policy.

Make a gift that is easy and costs you nothing

Receive a guaranteed, fixed payment stream for life

Beneficiary designation

Charitable gift annuity

1. Contact your bank, retirement plan administrator, insurance

You make an irrevocable gift of cash, appreciated securities or QCD of $10,000 or more to the Archdiocese of Chicago.

In return, you and/or a loved one age 60+ will receive fixed payments for life. The remaining balance after your lifetime is distributed to the archdiocese or one of our parishes, schools or ministries — as designated by you.

company, etc. to request a beneficiary designation form.

You may also be able to log in to your account and update your beneficiaries online.

2. Please use our legal name and tax identification number:

The Catholic Bishop of Chicago 36-2170826 3. Please let us know so we can ensure that your wishes are

honored.

Contact Krystina M. Campbell at 312.534.5404 or kcampbell@ archchicago.org to receive a personalized CGA gift illustration and application.

Reduce or eliminate taxes.

Receive fixed payments for life. A portion of these payments are tax-free through life expectancy.

Reduce or avoid probate fees.

Receive an income tax deduction for a portion of your gift when CGA is funded with cash or appreciated securities.

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GIVING SOCIETIES

LUMEN CORDIUM SOCIETY The Lumen Cordium Society is a special alliance of Catholic men and women who take a leadership role in the work of the Church. As a member, your generosity sets an example of good stewardship as you reach out with love to people and ministries in need of your assistance. While the satisfaction derived from advancing the mission of the Church in Chicago is the greatest reward, the benefits described below are intended to convey Cardinal Cupich’s gratitude for your support. If you have any questions, please contact Krista Cobb, coordinator, Annual Catholic Appeal, at 312.534.7615 or kcobb@archchicago.org.

PATRONS Those donating at the $1,500 to $4,999 level will:

• Be remembered in weekly Masses celebrated at

To recognize more of our generous donors who support the work of the Church, the Archdiocese of Chicago recently instituted three more giving societies in addition to our Lumen Cordium Society.

LUMEN LEADERSHIP SOCIETY Cumulative lifetime giving over $100,000 The Lumen Leadership Society honors families and individuals who have made cumulative lifetime gifts totaling $100,000 or more to archdiocese initiatives, including the Annual Catholic Appeal and To Teach Who Christ Is. Members receive recognition and invitations to special events. If you have any questions, please contact Barbara Shea Collins, director of the Annual Catholic Appeal, at 312.534.7944 or bcollins@archchicago.org.

St. James Chapel in the Quigley Pastoral Center

• Receive Lumen magazine twice a year • Be included in the Prayer Intention Book of society members

• Be invited to the annual Mass and reception with Cardinal Cupich

BENEFACTORS Those donating at the $5,000 to $9,999 level will:

• Receive Patrons benefits • Receive a subscription to Chicago Catholic, the

archdiocesan newspaper • Be invited to an annual reception with Cardinal Cupich

LUMEN LOYALIST SOCIETY Loyal support to the Annual Catholic Appeal The Lumen Loyalist Society honors those who have made gifts of $500 or more to the Annual Catholic Appeal every year for 10 years. If you have any questions, please contact Barbara Shea Collins, director of the Annual Catholic Appeal, at 312.534.7944 or bcollins@archchicago.org.

LUMEN LEGACY Those donating at the $10,000 to $24,999 level will: SOCIETY CARDINAL’S CIRCLE

• Receive Benefactors benefits • Be invited to a Christmas reception with Cardinal Cupich

CARDINAL’S GUILD Those donating at the $25,000+ level will:

• Receive Cardinal’s Circle benefits • Be invited to a special VIP reception

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LUMEN | Winter 2025 | annualcatholicappeal.com

Planned gifts The Lumen Legacy Society honors individuals who have included a gift to the archdiocese — or one of its parishes, schools or ministries — in their estate plans through a will, trust, retirement account or other financial asset.

Membership is also extended to those who establish a gift annuity or name the Annual Catholic Appeal as a beneficiary in their estate plan. If you have any questions, please contact Krystina M. Campbell, JD, planned giving officer, at 312.534.5404 or kcampbell@archchicago.org.

DISTRIBUTION OF FUNDS

2024 Annual Catholic Appeal

HOW YOUR GIFT WAS USED $

4,064,370

Low-income parishes and schools

Support for parishes and schools serving financially challenged communities

$

3,808,096

Parish-based incentives

After a parish reaches goal, donated funds return to the parish for local use

$

2,771,565

Archdiocesan ministries

Outreach initiatives for young adults, families, children and others

$

1,360,090

Spiritual renewal efforts

Transforming parishes to share our faith in new and creative ways

$

949,419

Priest formation

Education and development for seminarians and priests in the Archdiocese of Chicago

$

749,905

Scholarships

Tuition assistance for disadvantaged Catholic school families

$

545,000

Catholic Relief Services

Support for those suffering from natural disasters around the world

$ 14,248,445

MINISTRIES TOTAL

$

1,137,367

Cost of the Appeal

$

15,385,812

TOTAL APPEAL

Printing, postage and processing costs for the Appeal

This chart shows how your Annual Catholic Appeal funds were used in 2024 to support these many initiatives and programs.

Cost of the Appeal 7% Catholic Relief Services 4% Scholarships 5% Priest formation 6% Low-income parishes and schools 26% Spiritual renewal efforts 9% Parish-based incentives 25% Archdiocesan ministries 18%

The Annual Catholic Appeal supports the work of the Church in the Archdiocese of Chicago.

No money donated to the Annual Catholic Appeal has been, or will be, used to defray expenses related to misconduct issues.

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WHAT’S COOKING?

BY CARLA BEECHER

This holiday season, Cardinal Blase Cupich and Father Louis Cameli traded their vestments for aprons and gathered in the kitchen of Holy Name Cathedral — not for a sermon, but to prepare one of Father Cameli’s favorite Italian dishes. Pasta aglio olio acciughe is a simple, hearty dish that he describes as “the quickest, tastiest recipe you’ll probably never find in a restaurant.”

What unfolded was more than a cooking lesson — it was a joyful exchange of stories, laughter, and the kind of fellowship that makes the season bright. Their time in the kitchen reminds us that faith and friendship are often best shared around the table.

Warm your heart — and your home — with this delicious recipe and join Cardinal Cupich and Father Cameli in celebrating the spirit of the holidays through food, faith and community.

PASTA AGLIO OLIO ACCIUGHE (PASTA WITH GARLIC, OIL, ANCHOVIES) Serves 4 Ingredients 1 lb. of spaghetti rigati 1 small tin (2 oz.) anchovies 3 cloves of garlic ½ teaspoon of salt ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (or to taste) ½ cup of olive oil black pepper chopped parsley

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Directions 1. Peel the garlic, lightly smash.

2. Put oil in large frying pan and heat on medium heat.

3. Add garlic to pan, let bloom in oil for 3 or 4 minutes, then remove.

4. Add anchovies to the oil, stir in, let disintegrate in the oil.

5. Add salt to anchovy oil mixture and red pepper flakes, continue to cook for a minute or so, then turn off the heat.

6. Cook the pasta in salted water for about 6 minutes (al dente) 7. Near the end of the cooking time for the pasta, heat pan with anchovy oil.

8. When pasta is cooked al dente, drain thoroughly and add to pan, toss and allow to finish cooking for a minute or two.

9. Bring the cooked pasta to the table, add some grinds of black pepper, and sprinkle with chopped parsley.

LUMEN | Winter 2025 | annualcatholicappeal.com

Brian Brach

A taste of the season with Cardinal Cupich and Father Cameli

Secure extra income

For yourself and the Church Charitable gift annuity

A gift annuity with the Archdiocese of Chicago offers you fixed payments for life and a way to support the Church.

How it works

• Make a gift of $10,000 or more using cash, appreciated securities or a QCD from your IRA.

• Receive fixed payments for life — for yourself or a loved one age 60 or older; a portion of each payment is tax-free (through life expectancy).

• Receive income tax deduction for a portion of your gift, per IRS rules.

• Reduce capital gains tax liability for gifts of appreciated securities.

• Satisfy annual RMD from IRA with a QCD gift, if age 73 or older.

• Designate remaining funds to support your parish, school, ministry or the archdiocese.

Gift annuity rates for One-Life* Age

60

65

70

75

80

85

90 +

Rate

5.2%

5.7%

6.3%

7%

8.1%

9.1%

10.1%

*Effective January 1, 2025. Rates are subject to change.

Scan QR code to learn more about charitable gift annuities.

To receive a free, no-obligation illustration of how you could benefit from a charitable gift annuity, contact Krystina M. Campbell at 312.534.5404 or kcampbell@archchicago.org.

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NONPROFIT Lumen Cordium Society 835 North Rush Street Chicago, IL 60611-2030 tel 312.534.7959 annualcatholicappeal.com

U.S. Postage PAID Palatine, IL P & DC Permit No. 7133

You are cordially invited to attend

THE CARDINAL’S CHRISTMAS CONCERT

Natalie Battaglia Photography

The Cardinal’s Christmas Concert featuring the City Lights Orchestra, conducted by Rich Daniels, will begin at 2 p.m. on Sunday, December 7 at Church of the Holy Family, 1080 West Roosevelt Road in Chicago.