The Catholic Telegraph January 2021

MAGAZINE

190th year | issue 1

bringing faith into the home

january 2021 | catholic schools week | 1

Founder, Don Mackos with wife Sherene and grandchildren. Parishioners at St. John's, West Chester

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edi t or’s not e

weathering an Unusual School Year I write this column each month with the help of prayer and discernment, usually in my office, while the kids are asleep or at school. I always marvel at how God, in the midst of the quiet, provides inspiration as words fill the blank page. But writing this month was a little different. For one, there was no quiet office. In its place were four young children attempting distance learning. Although each logged in on their individual iPads (thankfully, provided by our school), it was the epitome of chaos. “Mom! I can’t get my sound to work! Mom, how do I unmute? Mom my teacher sent home a math worksheet and I can’t find it. Mom, where are my earbuds? Mom, my teacher said we have to log back into class in 30 minutes.” Needless to say, it was far from a typical school day, and all attempts to write were met with constant, frustrating interruptions. I caved to the chaos of the “test-run virtual day,” calling my husband and begging him to come home for lunch so I could have 30 minutes to squeeze in some work. Later that evening, thoroughly exhausted, frustrated and thanking God that my children were sleeping soundly in their beds, I opened my copy of Magnificat to read the day’s reflection. I am always amazed that what I read seems to be exactly what I need in the moment, and this one was no exception. “Although Advent is a joyful season, it is also often a season of small trials… These things are not punishments, but preparation … opportunities to be watchful, be alert. Since we do not know when the lord of the house is coming, we need these repeated occasions to exercise virtue...” Oof. I truly needed to exercise some virtue. And that’s when I began to rethink my day. Yes, it was madness, but my kids each had their own iPad for schoolwork, courtesy of their Catholic school. And this was only a practice virtual learning

session: “not a punishment, but preparation.” Our school is small and cautious, which means they have mostly been able to continue in-person learning. And, most wonderfully of all, our school leadership encourages prayers for the sick, prayers for our teachers and faculty, prayers for parents and students. This school year is less than ideal for everyone. It has trials unlike any we’ve faced in our lifetime. But, as our superintendent, Susie Gibbons, says in this issue: “As in all things, when times are hardest, there are lessons to be learned. Our Catholic schools have persevered, and our children have, in fact, adjusted beautifully.” During these trying times, may we remember to be grateful for our faith, our schools and the reminder to exercise virtue when things get difficult.

cteditorial@catholicaoc.org

THE CATHOLIC TELEGRAPH 190th Year No. 1 • January 2021 513-263-6633 • thecatholictelegraph.com

PUBLISHER Archbishop Dennis M. Schnurr

EDITOR Jessica Rinaudo

MEDIA SALES Deacon Graham Galloway

GRAPHIC DESIGN Emma Cassani

NEW MEDIA EDITOR Greg Hartman

DIGITAL ENGAGEMENT Dominick Albano

PHOTOGRAPHY Margaret Swensen

BOOKKEEPING Karen Cromer

100 East Eighth St., Cincinnati, OH 45202 ctadvertising@catholicaoc.org The Catholic Telegraph (xUSPS 094-520) ISSN. 10736689 is published monthly by the Archdiocese of Cincinnati 100 E 8th St., Cincinnati, OH 45202. Periodicals postage paid at Cincinnati and at additional mailing office. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: The Catholic Telegraph, 100 E. 8th St., Cincinnati, OH 45202

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contents

news

catholic schools

columns

8 RETURNING TO THE EUCHARIST WITH JOY

24 ROSE VON ERDEN

5 SEEK THE LORD

REGAN MEYER

ARCHBISHOP DENNIS M. SCHNURR

FATHER EARL FERNANDES

Mount Notre Dame senior shares passion for pro-life ministry

A legacy of Catholic schools

26 PAPAL NUNCIO BRINGS BLESSINGS TO LOCAL SCHOOL

FATHER DAVID ENDRES

10 A GLOBAL PERSPECTIVE JESSICA RINAUDO

A conversation with the apostolic nuncio, Archbishop Christophe Pierre 12 BICENTENNIAL HISTORY: A NEW DIOCESE FOR OHIO

JOHN STEGEMAN

29 FAITH. EXCELLENCE. SERVICE. MICHELLE DUSHENSKY

SARAH ATER

13 BICENTENNIAL HISTORY: MISSIONARIES IN THE VINEYARD SARAH ATER

32 IN PROFILE: DAWN PICKERILL

7 QUESTION OF FAITH Why baptize Jesus? 16 KIDS’ CORNER St. John Bosco 17 CATHOLIC AT HOME KATIE SCIBA

KARY ELLEN BERGER

A resolution that really matters

St. John XXIII School principal embraces faith and silver linings

42 A CLOSER LOOK DR. KEN CRAYCRAFT

14 WHAT DID POPE FRANCIS SAY ABOUT CIVIL UNIONS?

34 A PANDEMIC SCHOOL YEAR BONNY VAN

The education of a Catholic Christian

J.D. FLYNN

Catholic schools across southwestern Ohio rise to the occasion

44 DID YOU KNOW?

36 MO PRIKKEL

Christ the King

18 A CHANGE OF PLANS EILEEN CONNELLY, OSU

March for Life 2021 22 BILL MITCHELL JENNIFER SCHACK

Former federal agent begins new role in service to the Church 48 OUT & ABOUT IN THE ARCHDIOCESE

ON THE COVER PHOTO BY: MARGARET SWENSEN

Dayton’s Archbishop Alter High School seniors stand in the Catholic high school’s rosary garden. 4 | CO N TE NTS

MARK DANIS

Catholic Central’s campus minister shaped by tragedy and supportive faith community 38 HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE OF RELIGIOUS EDUCATORS IN THE NORTHERN ARCHDIOCESE MATT HESS

40 LOCAL HERO HONORED

GAIL FINKE & EMMA CASSANI

45 SEIZE THE MOMENT NICHOLAS HARDESTY

Crisp sheets and missionary discipleship 46 MAKING CATHOLIC MEMORIES WAYNE & MARIANNE TOPP

St. Sebastian’s arrows

JACQUELINE LAZAR

50 THE FINAL WORD

LaSalle’s campus minister recognized on National Grief Awareness Day

SUSIE GIBBONS

When times are hardest there are lessons to be learned

Pope Francis’ Prayer Intention for January: Human Fraternity May the Lord give us the grace to live in full fellowship with our brothers and sisters of other religions, praying for one another, open to all.

SEEK THE LORD ARCHBISHOP DENNIS M. SCHNURR

As we prepare for the celebration of the bicentennial of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati later this year, National Catholic Schools Week – Jan. 31 through Feb. 6 – offers an opportunity to reflect with gratitude upon the importance and success of Catholic education in the 19 counties of our local Church over the past two centuries.

hallways, in the cafeterias and on the playing fields. For this reason, I am pleased and impressed with the commitment of our school leaders and faculties to in-person learning during the ongoing pandemic, following the guidance of our Catholic Schools Office. Their dedication to their students is an inspiration.

Our visionary founding bishop, Most Rev. Edward D. Fenwick, took seriously his responsibility to educate his flock, preparing them for life both in this world and the next, and informing them about current events from the perspective of the Church. He therefore oversaw with apostolic vigor the founding of Cincinnati’s first Catholic school in 1825, a seminary in 1829 and The Catholic Telegraph in 1831.

Local and national Catholic schools have overcome many other challenges over the past two centuries. Even in the best of times, operating a school is a complex matter with many human and financial variables. The great legacy of Catholic education that we have in this archdiocese would not have been possible without the commitment and sacrifices of parents, volunteers, teacher-ministers, administrators, staff members, parishioners and religious orders over many generations. As archbishop, I am deeply grateful to all of them.

That first school of 25 female students and two teachers has grown into our archdiocesan network of 111 Catholic schools with nearly 40,000 students from grades pre-K through high school and more than 3,300 teachers. Only a handful of other dioceses in the U.S. have more students in Catholic schools. While we celebrate this achievement, we also laud the more than 20,000 additional Catholic students in the archdiocese who receive instruction in the faith through parish schools of religion. The Catholic schools in our archdiocese vary in many ways. There are elementary and high schools; co-ed, all girls and all boys schools; urban, suburban and rural schools; schools owned by parishes, the archdiocese, private boards and religious orders. What these excellent institutions have in common is their commitment to the holistic education and spiritual growth of each student so that graduates radiate the light of Christ, leading lives of virtue and helping to build a better and less divisive world. This formation takes place in a community atmosphere that is welcoming and compassionate, as well as academically demanding. Our teacher-ministers model the faith to their students not just in the classroom, but in the entire Catholic school experience, including what happens in the

To radiate Christ means to witness Christ, not just to talk about Christ. Our Catholic school students know that, and they show it in the tens of thousands of volunteer hours that they collectively perform every year. In doing so they defend the life and dignity of the human person, which is the first principle of Catholic social justice. Just one example is the many school pro-life clubs that assist the work of pregnancy centers across the archdiocese. Another form of witness is undertaken by the busloads of our students who have attended the March for Life in Washington each year to demonstrate their opposition to the unjust abortion regime imposed by the Supreme Court in its notorious Roe v. Wade decision of Jan. 22, 1973. I am proud of our students who have made this arduous trip. COVID-19 will change our schools’ participation in the March for Life, as it has changed so much. Our Catholic schools, however, have not changed in what is most important: the mission they have pursued since Bishop Fenwick opened the first Catholic school only three years after the foundation of the Diocese of Cincinnati. Let us all celebrate Catholic Schools Week! S E E K T H E L OR D / JAN U A R Y 2021 | 5

BUSCA AL SEÑOR ARZOBISPO DENNIS M. SCHNURR

Mientras nos preparamos para la celebración del bicentenario de la Arquidiócesis de Cincinnati más tarde este año, la Semana Nacional de las Escuelas Católicas – del 31 de enero al 6 de febrero – ofrece la oportunidad de reflexionar con gratitud sobre la importancia y el éxito de la educación Católica en los 19 condados de nuestra Iglesia local durante los últimos dos siglos. Nuestro visionario obispo fundador, el Reverendísimo Edward D. Fenwick, tomó en serio su responsabilidad de educar a su rebaño, preparándolos para la vida tanto en este mundo como en el siguiente, e informándoles sobre los acontecimientos actuales desde la perspectiva de la Iglesia. Por lo tanto, supervisó con vigor apostólico la fundación de la primera escuela Católica de Cincinnati en 1825, un seminario en 1829 y The Catholic Telegraph en 1831. Esa primera escuela de 25 alumnas y dos maestras ha crecido en nuestra red arquidiocesana de 111 escuelas Católicas con casi 40,000 estudiantes desde los grados pre-K hasta la escuela secundaria y más de 3,300 profesores. Sólo unas cuantas diócesis en los Estados Unidos tienen más estudiantes en escuelas Católicas. Mientras celebramos este logro, también elogiamos a los más de 20,000 estudiantes Católicos adicionales en la arquidiócesis que reciben instrucción en la fe a través de escuelas parroquiales de religión. Las escuelas Católicas en nuestra arquidiócesis varían de muchas maneras. Hay escuelas primarias y secundarias; escuelas mixtas, de niñas y de niños; escuelas urbanas, suburbanas y rurales; escuelas propiedad de parroquias, la arquidiócesis, consejos privados y órdenes religiosas. Lo que estas excelentes instituciones tienen en común es su compromiso con la educación holística y el crecimiento espiritual de cada estudiante para que los graduados radien la luz de Cristo, llevando vidas de virtud y ayudando a construir un mundo mejor y menos divisivo. Esta formación se lleva a cabo en un ambiente comunitario que es acogedor y compasivo, así como académicamente exigente. Nuestros maestros-ministros modelan la fe a sus estudiantes no sólo en el aula, sino en toda la experiencia de la escuela Católica, incluyendo lo que sucede en los pasillos,

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en las cafeterías y en los campos de juego. Por esta razón, estoy complacido e impresionado con el compromiso de nuestros líderes escolares y facultades para el aprendizaje en persona durante la pandemia en curso, siguiendo la guía de nuestra Oficina de Escuelas Católicas. La dedicación a sus estudiantes es una inspiración. Las escuelas Católicas locales y nacionales han superado muchos otros desafíos en los últimos dos siglos. Incluso en el mejor de los tiempos, operar una escuela es un asunto complejo con muchas variables humanas y financieras. El gran legado de la educación Católica que tenemos en esta arquidiócesis no habría sido posible sin el compromiso y los sacrificios de padres, voluntarios, maestros-ministros, administradores, miembros del personal, feligreses y órdenes religiosas a lo largo de muchas generaciones. Como arzobispo, estoy profundamente agradecido a todos ellos. Irradiar a Cristo significa ser testigo de Cristo, no sólo hablar de Cristo. Nuestros estudiantes de escuelas Católicas lo saben, y lo muestran en las decenas de miles de horas de voluntariado que realizan colectivamente cada año. Al hacerlo, defienden la vida y la dignidad de la persona humana, que es el primer principio de la justicia social Católica. Un ejemplo son los muchos clubs escolares provida que ayudan al trabajo de los centros de embarazo en toda la arquidiócesis. Otra forma de testimonio es emprendida por los autobuses de nuestros estudiantes que han asistido a la Marcha por la Vida en Washington cada año para demostrar su oposición al régimen injusto del aborto impuesto por la Corte Suprema en su notoria decisión de Roe v. Wade del 22 de enero de 1973. Estoy orgulloso de nuestros estudiantes que han hecho este arduo viaje. COVID-19 cambiará la participación de nuestras escuelas en la Marcha por la Vida, como ha cambiado tanto. Nuestras escuelas Católicas, sin embargo, no han cambiado en lo que es más importante: la misión que han perseguido desde que el Obispo Fenwick abrió la primera escuela Católica sólo tres años después de la fundación de la Diócesis de Cincinnati. ¡Celebremos todos la Semana de las Escuelas Católicas!

Q UES TI O N O F F AITH

WHY BAPTIZE JESUS? Why did Jesus need to be baptized? If Jesus is God, wouldn’t baptism be unnecessary? Many have considered this question throughout history, so it is a good one. When Jesus approached John the Baptist to be baptized, John replied, “I need to be baptized by you, and yet you are coming to me?” (Matt. 3:14) Like us, John was confused about why his sinless cousin – the long-expected Messiah who would baptize with the Holy Spirit and fire – needed to undergo a baptism of repentance. Jesus responded to John mysteriously: “Allow it now; for thus it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness” (Matt. 3:15). What does Jesus mean by righteousness? We will consider three reasons for Jesus’ baptism based on different interpretations of “righteousness”: the entirety of God’s salvific plan, the redemption won by Jesus and our salvation in Christ. GOD’S PLAN FROM THE BEGINNING

Righteousness means standing in right relationship with God. Because of sin, humanity has broken this relationship. Thankfully, though, God works to bring humanity back to Himself, and this return to righteousness is the story of the Old Testament. When Jesus says that His baptism will fulfill all righteousness, He testifies that He will accomplish all of God’s promises to Israel. His baptism invokes various events in salvation history. Biblical scholars point out several Old Testament connections to Jesus’s baptism: After baptism, a dove descends on the water like at Creation (Gen. 1:2); Jesus is called “beloved” like the sacrificial Isaac (Gen. 22); Jesus is called the son as prophesied by David (Ps. 2; and Jesus is washed and anointed by the son of a priest (like King Solomon in 1 Kings 1). In His baptism, Jesus ushers in the new Creation as the beloved, sacrificial Son of God and King of Israel.

REDEMPTION THROUGH JESUS

Righteousness can refer more specifically to Jesus’ own work of redemption. John preached his baptism of conversion to sinners. The act of going down into the water symbolized cleansing and putting to death one’s sinful self, and coming up from the water represented the hope of new life. When Jesus consented to baptism, He placed Himself alongside sinners. Even more, Jesus takes our sins upon Himself in baptism. As Paul says of Jesus, “For our sake He made Him to be sin who did not know sin, so that we might become the righteousness of God in Him” (2 Cor. 5:21). The baptism of Jesus points to the Cross where Jesus shouldered humanity’s sins, put them to death, and gave us new life. GRACE THROUGH BAPTISM

Finally, righteousness refers to the gift of salvation offered to each of us through baptism. Our baptism is different from John’s since his was symbolic, while our baptism imparts grace. Many Church Fathers argue that Jesus gave sacramental power to the Church’s baptism when He was baptized. As St. Augustine said, “The Savior willed to be baptized not that He might Himself be cleansed, but to cleanse the water for us.” Jesus was baptized not because He was a sinner, but because we are sinners. Unlike Him, we need more than a symbolic ritual to overcome our sins; we need the grace and power of God through baptism. The baptism of Jesus simultaneously fulfilled all the messianic hopes of the Old Testament, began Jesus’s public work of redemption, and initiated the supernatural effects of baptism. Though Jesus never knew sin, He was baptized to fulfill all righteousness – for Israel, the world, and us. FATHER DAVID ENDRES

is associate professor of Church history and historical theology at Mount St. Mary’s Seminary & School of Theology. QU E S T ION OF F AIT H / JAN UA R Y 2021 | 7

Returning to the

Eucharist With Joy B Y F AT H E R E AR L F E RN AN D E S

After five years away, I am happy to return to writing for The Catholic Telegraph; however, I am even happier that many people are returning to Mass after the lockdown precipitated by the pandemic. While observing safety precautions, people are returning gradually to the Eucharist, even if things don’t quite look or feel the same. We should rejoice that we have the option of public worship. Some countries, like Ireland and France, have prohibited public worship again; in France, the government has even prohibited Catholics from protesting against the prohibition of public worship! There have been times throughout history when Christians were prohibited from worship. In a recent letter entitled “Returning to the Eucharist with Joy,” Cardinal Robert Sarah, recalled the Christians of Abitnae who, in the Year 304, gathered for Mass despite a prohibition. When confronted by the authorities about why they defied the Emperor, they replied, “Sine Dominco non possumus” – “Without Sunday, we are unable to live.” Recent restrictions on public worship cause us to examine whether this is true for us.

8 | T H E C ATHOLIC TE LEG R A PH

While many have watched Mass online, that it is simply not the same; we need to be together. Pope Francis said as much: “Familiarity with the Lord is always communal. Yes, it is intimate, it is personal, but in community. A familiarity without community, a familiarity without Bread, a familiarity without the Church, without the people, without the sacraments is dangerous. It can become a familiarity … for me alone, detached from the People of God. The familiarity of the Apostles with the Lord was always communal … The Church, the sacraments, the People of God are concrete. It is true that at this moment we must make this familiarity with the Lord in this way [through television or internet], but we need to get out of the tunnel, not stay there!” (Pope Francis, Homily, Apr. 17, 2020) We need to get out of the tunnel for Mass, which is the “source and summit” of ecclesial life. To truly live, we need God’s life-giving Word, which, when proclaimed in the assembly, shapes our hearts and fills them with joy. We cannot live without the sacrifice of Calvary, offered at each Mass, where the Lord gives Himself to us, and we unite ourselves to Him and His merciful embrace.

Can we live without the Eucharist? The pandemic has helped us become aware of how much we take the Eucharist for granted. Once, the Church sent me to Armenia, and the Catholics there had not had Mass for six months because there were no priests! When we do not eat, we grow weak and become sick. The lack of reception of the Eucharist makes us vulnerable to sin. Without this Spiritual Food, we lose the strength to fulfill our duties. Rightly, the Eucharist is called the Bread of Life; it sustains us now and carries the promise of eternal life.

We cannot live without the sacrifice of Calvary, offered at each Mass, where the Lord gives Himself to us, and we unite ourselves to Him and His merciful embrace.

Can we live without our churches? We have a need to pray in particular places and to gather in those spaces as a community. The church building reminds us of God’s presence in the midst of His people and of our need to worship Him. In his 2020 Epiphany homily, Pope Francis said, “Once we lose the sense of worship, we lose our direction in the Christian life, which is a journey towards the Lord, not towards ourselves.” He added, “In the Christian life, it is not enough to be knowledgeable; unless we step out of ourselves, unless we encounter others and worship, we cannot know God. Theology and pastoral effectiveness mean little or nothing unless we bend the knee... Once we worship, we come to realize that faith is not simply a set of fine doctrines but a relationship with a living Person whom we are called to love.” (Pope Francis, Homily, Jan. 6, 2020) Things are different in our churches without as much music and other “fanfare,” but we should recall that “full, conscious, and active participation” involves deep, interior participation – entering into the act of Christ – an act of love that changes our hearts. The frenetic pace of life, constant activity at Mass, and a lack of silence can be obstacles to an authentic encounter with the Lord.

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At Christmas, we reflected on how the shepherds and Magi were filled with joy when seeing the Christ Child. The lepers, the Samaritan woman at the well, and Zacchaeus the tax collector all rejoiced in their encounters with Jesus by which they experienced His love for them. Mass is not a mere obligation but an encounter with Our Lord, who opens up a new horizon on life and fills our hearts with joy. Let us, therefore, return to the Eucharist with joy!

N E W S / JAN UA R Y 2021 | 9

representing the Holy See with the government. … Whatever problems we have with the United States to Rome. It’s a kind of go-between, like most of the embassies.” The nuncio’s office is also responsible for aiding the pope with appointments of new bishops within the U.S. The process is a lengthy one that involves extensive research, recommendations and approvals. Archbishop Pierre said that’s one of his primary responsibilities, adding, “We try to accelerate the movement. At times, it works; at times, it doesn’t work. Our concern is to do a good job. We don’t want to make a mistake.” The role of apostolic nuncio is a big one and carries heavy responsibilities. His path to the prestigious position was not one he ever planned to take, though.

a global perspective A Conversation With the Apostolic Nuncio, ARCHBISHOP CHRISTOPHE PIERRE by Jessica Rinaudo

It’s not every day that the apostolic nuncio, the Vatican’s ambassador to the U.S., visits Cincinnati. But in November, Father Earl Fernandes, his former assistant at the nunciature, invited him to make the trip to Southwestern Ohio from Washington, D.C. During his visit, Archbishop Christophe Pierre took the opportunity to bless St. Ignatius School, confirm youth at the Cathedral Basilica of St. Peter in Chains, meet with Archbishop Schnurr and sit down with the The Catholic Telegraph team to talk about a wide range of topics. WHAT IS A NUNCIO?

First, Archbishop Pierre explained what, exactly, a papal nuncio is and how he fulfills that role in the U.S. First and foremost, he serves as the representative of the Holy Father to the American government, the bishops and the entirety of the Catholic faithful within the U.S. “My work is to … help the pope to understand what’s going on, and also helping the bishops and the local Church to understand what the pope wants,” said Archbishop Pierre. “We are also 1 0 | TH E C ATHOLIC TE LEGR A P H

“I wanted to become a priest in my home diocese. And at the end of seminary, my bishop called me and [said] he would like to send me to Rome and to serve the Holy Father. So I was first surprised,” said Archbishop Pierre. “The Vatican has a school for preparation of the future diplomats of the Church. ... We receive a training for this job… For four years, I studied in Rome, and, eventually, once you are admitted to the service, you start your job.” And while the role of Vatican diplomat may not have been one Archbishop Pierre originally imagined for himself, it quickly became clear he was meant for it. “I began to go around the world 43 years ago, and I’m still going around. And I’ve been in nine countries for the last 43 years. It has been a very interesting life. I don’t regret saying ‘yes,’” he said. THE GLOBAL CHURCH

With decades of experience under his belt, Archbishop Pierre has a unique and global perspective on the Catholic Church. “If you have the mentality of a pastor, you can be a pastor anywhere,” he said. “During my life, I have had so many opportunities to be in touch with local churches in poor countries, in missionary countries, like Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Cuba, Haiti, Uganda. That’s where I spent my life. So I’ve been in contact with a lot of local churches, close to the poor people in situations of war and misery. I have learned a lot. If you want to be involved, you are involved.” Additionally, the archbishop has been in the service of four popes. But, in his opinion, the best analysis of the global climate of the Church today comes from the documents of Pope Francis. “[Pope Francis] has such depth and vision of what’s going on in the world. And what’s going on is basically kind of a new epoch, a new moment [that] is ... in line with post-modernity, a kind of fragmentation of society,” said Archbishop Pierre.

“This new moment creates a crisis of transmission of values between one generation to another. Before, the transmission was made through the society, the church, the school, but it seems that the parents today have a great difficulty to transmit what they want to their children. The same with the teachers, the same with the politicians, the same with the priests. We are all lost,” said the archbishop. “Because they are lost, the receivers, the children, the young people, are not convinced,” the archbishop continued. “They will be convinced if we are to witness, and if we live what we believe. We don’t actually live fully what we believe, [so] we are not credible. And this is a crisis of this society.” POPE FRANCIS & FRATELLI TUTTI

While Archbishop Pierre discussed a number of Pope Francis’ encyclicals, he honed in on his most recent document, Fratelli Tutti, subtitled, On Fraternity and Social Friendship. To fully understand the value of its content, “we have to understand it in line with what the pope has said over the last seven years,” he said. “The human fraternity, which is a value, according to the pope, but also to many people today, is very much needed in a world which is divided, which is fragmented, where there are counter – positions, like what we have today in the United States. We have seen that in the occasion of this electoral campaign. That we are unable to talk to one another. If we are unable to talk to one another, what kind of society will we be?” Archbishop Pierre asked. “[Pope Francis] gets his vision from his own faith. If we are really believers in Christ, if we are disciples of Jesus – and you’ll find a lot of beautiful mentions of that – we should work for fraternity,” he said. A great admirer of Pope Francis, Archbishop Pierre asks that Americans take the time to get to know him. “The Holy Father is not perfect, but he has been chosen by the Holy Spirit! … If you know him, you will know his defects, but you will also know his qualities. A lot of people

today have not made the effort to know who [the pope is]. He comes from a different culture, a different country, but he also brings – and that’s the providence of God – his qualities, his experience, for the whole Church,” Archbishop Pierre said. He continued, “And I can tell you, because Providence called me also to work in four countries in South America; so, for many years now, I have known Pope Francis, and seen his work and his background. I understand his motivations. I admire him a lot. And I’m convinced that Providence is working. And thank God for that!” EVANGELIZATION

Throughout the interview Archbishop Pierre reiterated the crucial need for evangelization in modern culture across the globe. “The secularization [of the world] is so deep that we are all affected by that. What can we do to continue to evangelize? Because this is our work. It’s not just to organize things. ... We have wonderful parishes, well organized, beautiful schools. We are quite good in organizing, but are we really evangelizing? ... Are we reaching the young people where they are? Are we really helping the young people today to understand their own life? To discover the beauty of their life and to relate it to their faith in God? What does it mean today to have faith? To me, this is the real challenge,” he said. Archbishop Pierre closed our interview with a series of challenging questions for the Catholic faithful in America: “Have we really met the Lord? What has been in your life to meet Him well? Has this encounter had an impact? Has this encounter just opened you to a whole new reason for life? What are you doing with this encounter? Have you already forgotten it? Has it not impacted, and it’s business as usual?” These, the archbishop said, are essential for us to answer before we can begin to effectively evangelize the world around us. Look for video segments of the full interview to be released at thecatholictelegraph.com.

“They will be convinced if we are to witness, and if we live what we believe.” | 11

ARCHDIOCESE OF CINCINNATI BICENTENNIAL

a new diocese for ohio BY S AR AH AT E R

“Since my arrival in this country, I wrote you, satisfied that every exertion would be made to establish a church in this part of the country, as it has been and is my greatest expectation in coming here…There are of our profession [of faith] in this place that I am acquainted with, about 30 souls, two families of my acquaintance that will be here this ensuing spring; adding the probable migration from the neighbourland of Conawago…a considerable congregation may be made here.” On Jan. 5, 1805, Jacob Dittoe wrote these words to Bishop John Carroll of Baltimore. Having migrated from Germany to Somerset, OH, Dittoe pleaded with the bishop on multiple occasions to send a priest for the care of Catholic souls in Ohio. In the years prior to Dittoe’s arrival, the territory received only a handful of visits from traveling priests. Although Bishop Carroll was unable to send someone to Ohio, he finally commissioned Father Edward Fenwick, O.P., to head to Kentucky in 1808 to establish a Dominican priory and mission in the region. Born Aug. 19, 1768, in St. Mary’s County, MD, Edward Fenwick went to Europe as a young man to further his education. There, he entered the Order of Preachers (Dominicans). Father Fenwick returned to his home country in 1804 and traveled to Kentucky at Bishop Carroll’s request. Once there, he established St. Rose Priory near Springfield, KY. His first visit to Somerset was in 1808 and he would visit Ohio only intermittently at first, but he returned more often later. In 1808, the Church established the Diocese of Bardstown (now Archdiocese of Louisville), and Bishop Joseph Flaget and Father Stephen Badin ministered to Catholics in Ohio. St. Joseph Church in Somerset claims the honor of being the first church in the state of Ohio, dedicated on Dec. 6, 1818, by Father Fenwick. Just as Jacob Dittoe had made efforts to establish a Catholic Church in Somerset, similar efforts were being made in Cincinnati, which was one of the fastest growing cities in America. Michael Scott arrived in Cincinnati in 1805 and offered his home for Catholics to gather for prayer and community. With the support of Bishop Flaget, Christ Church (sometimes called St. Patrick Church) was dedicated on Easter

Father Edward Fenwick, O.P., blesses the people.

Sunday, Apr. 19, 1819. Located at what is now Liberty and Vine, two years later it became the first cathedral of the new Diocese of Cincinnati. The Diocese of Cincinnati included part of Bardstown territory when the Church established it on June 19, 1821. Initially, it included the entire states of Ohio, Michigan and parts of Wisconsin. Father Fenwick became its first bishop. He knew Ohio well, and people knew him for his ardent zeal as a missionary priest, but the task of bishop daunted him, and he thought his own limitations made him a less-thanideal candidate. Bishop Fenwick had a handful of priests, no women religious, and no income to build churches or educate seminarians, as most local Catholics lived in poverty. A “begging tour” in Europe in 1823 and 1824 yielded a few priests, some sacred items and vessels, donations and one woman religious, Sister St. Paul, who taught at Cincinnati’s first Catholic school. The Archdiocese of Cincinnati had a humble beginning, but the faithful worked hard and relied on God to provide. Bishop Fenwick soon realized his goals of forming a seminary and creating a newspaper, which gave the diocese a foundation for ordaining new priests and spreading the gospel.

On June 19, 2021, the Archdiocese of Cincinnati will celebrate its Bicentennial, celebrating 200 years (and more) of faith in Western and Southwestern Ohio. Each month, in The Catholic Telegraph, we will feature events and people who played a part in its story. While not a comprehensive history, we nevertheless hope these stories will inspire, educate and celebrate the many gifts God has given our local Church. 1 2 | T H E C ATHOLIC TE LEGR A PH

Missionaries in the Vineyard In 1833 the Diocese of Cincinnati encompassed the entire state of Ohio. Bishop Fenwick did what he could to minister to the French and Native American Catholics located 500 miles north of Cincinnati. But Catholics were scattered throughout the state and infrequently visited by a priest. Missionary efforts in the 19th Century required priests to spend much time traveling from town to town.

Madeline La Framboise (1780–1846)

Father Louis Navarron (1807–1882)

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Born in 1780 in Mackinac Island, Madeline was the daughter of a French-Canadian fur trader and an indigenous Ottawa woman

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After her husband was murdered in 1806, she continued her husband’s fur trade, becoming renowned as a successful and astute business woman.

Father Navarron was born in France in 1807. He was recruited – along with seven other priests – by Bishop John Purcell to serve the Diocese of Cincinnati in 1831.

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Father Navarron went to Mercer and Auglaize counties where Germans and French immigrants settled. He ministered at St. Albert, St. Remy and Holy Family. He traveled in every direction to bring the sacraments to Catholics.

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When the Congregation of the Precious Blood arrived in these northern counties in 1844, Father Navarron moved to Clermont County, serving as pastor of St. Philomena, Stonelick, from 1851-1880.

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She fluently spoke French, English, Ottawa and Chippewa, but she only learned to read and write as an adult. She dressed in Ottawa attire and regularly hosted notable guests, including Alexis de Tocqueville.

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La Framboise was a generous patron of the poor and used her wealth to fund schools. She taught the Catechism at St. Anne Catholic Church and donated land for a new church and rectory.

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Madame La Framboise helped hold the parish together during the years when it did not have a permanent pastor.

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She welcomed Father Samuel Mazzuchelli, O.P., when he arrived as resident pastor in 1830. had Bishop Fenwick ordained Father Mazzuchelli that year and tasked him to go north as a missionary priest.

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La Framboise was buried under the altar of St. Anne and remained there until the 1990s, when the church underwent a renovation. She is now buried in the church cemetery.

A letter from Father Navarron to (Arch)Bishop John Purcell describing his activities: December 29, 1845 I commenced to build another church with logs, to whom I gave the name of the Holy Family. This holy name on account of the time, year, and families [for] whom it shall be built. I thought it to be the most suitable to my purpose…it shall be in a place very fit for accommodation of the priest and the Catholics, being a facile acces from every side. It is thirteen miles from Greenville, eighteen from recovery, 16 from Minster, and 20 from Piqua. and on the road from Versailles to Ft. Recovery my Catholics have worked until now, so far as to raise it, but the cold weather has put a stop to their good enterprise.

BIC E N T E N N IAL / JAN U A R Y 2021 | 13

BY JD FLYNN

CNA EXPLAINER

WHAT DID POPE FRANCIS SAY ABOUT CIVIL UNIONS? Francesco, a newly released documentary on the life and ministry of Pope Francis, has made global headlines, because the film contains a scene in which Pope Francis calls for the passage of civil union laws for same-sex couples. Some activists and media reports have suggested that Pope Francis has changed Catholic teaching by his remarks. Among many Catholics, the pope’s comments have raised questions about what the pope really said, what it means, and what the Church teaches about civil unions and marriage. CNA looks at those questions. WHAT DID POPE FRANCIS SAY ABOUT CIVIL UNIONS?

During a segment of Francesco which discussed Pope Francis’ pastoral care of Catholics who identify as LGBT, the pope made two distinct comments. He said first that: “Homosexuals have a right to be a part of the family. They’re children of God and have a right to a family. Nobody should be thrown out, or be made miserable because of it.” While the pope did not elaborate on the meaning of those remarks in the video, Pope Francis has spoken before to encourage parents and relatives not to ostracize or shun children who have identified as LGBT. This seems to be the sense in which the pope spoke about the right of people to be a part of the family. Some have suggested that when Pope Francis spoke about a “right to a family,” the pope was offering a kind of tacit endorsement of adoption by same-sex couples. But the pope has previously spoken against such adoptions, saying that through them children are “deprived of their human development given by a father and a mother and willed by God,” and saying that “every person needs a male father and a female mother that can help them shape their identity.” On civil unions, the pope said that: “What we have to create is a civil union law. That way they are legally covered.” “I stood up for that,” Pope Francis added, apparently in reference to his proposal to brother bishops, during a 2010 debate in Argentina over gay marriage, that accepting civil unions might be a way to prevent the passage of same-sex marriage laws in the country. 1 4 | T H E C A THOLIC TELE GR A PH

WHAT DID POPE FRANCIS SAY ABOUT GAY MARRIAGE?

Nothing. The topic of gay marriage was not discussed in the documentary. In his ministry, Pope Francis has frequently affirmed the doctrinal teaching of the Catholic Church that marriage is a lifelong partnership between one man and one woman. While Pope Francis has frequently encouraged a welcoming disposition to Catholics who identify as LGBT, the pope has also said that “marriage is between a man and a woman,” and said that “the family is threatened by growing efforts on the part of some to redefine the very institution of marriage,” and that efforts to redefine marriage “threaten to disfigure God’s plan for creation.” WHY ARE THE POPE’S COMMENTS ABOUT CIVIL UNIONS A BIG DEAL?

While Pope Francis has previously discussed civil unions, he has not explicitly endorsed the idea in public before. While the context of his quotes in the documentary is not fully revealed, and it is possible the pope added qualifications not seen on camera, an endorsement of civil unions for same-sex couples is a very different approach for a pope, one that represents a departure from the position of his two immediate predecessors on the issue. In 2003, in a document approved by Pope John Paul II and written by Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger, who became Pope Benedict XVI, the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith taught that “respect for homosexual persons cannot lead in any way to approval of homosexual behavior or to legal recognition of homosexual unions.” Even if civil unions might be chosen by people other than samesex couples, like siblings or committed friends, the CDF said that homosexual relationships would be “foreseen and approved by the law,” and that civil unions “would obscure certain basic moral values and cause a devaluation of the institution of marriage.” “Legal recognition of homosexual unions or placing them on

the same level as marriage would mean not only the approval of deviant behavior with the consequence of making it a model in present-day society, but would also obscure basic values which belong to the common inheritance of humanity,” the document concluded. The 2003 CDF document contains doctrinal truth, and the positions of John Paul II and Benedict XVI on how best to apply the Church’s doctrinal teaching to policy questions regarding the civil oversight and regulation of marriage. While those positions are consistent with the long-standing discipline of the Church on the issue, they are not themselves regarded as articles of faith. SOME PEOPLE HAVE SAID WHAT THE POPE TAUGHT IS HERESY. IS THAT TRUE?

No. The pope’s remarks did not deny or call into question any doctrinal truth that Catholics must hold or believe. In fact, the pope has frequently affirmed the Church’s doctrinal teaching regarding marriage. The pope’s apparent call for civil union legislation, which seems to be different from the position expressed by the CDF in 2003, has been taken to represent a departure from a long-standing moral judgment that Church leaders have taught supports and upholds the truth. The CDF document said that civil union laws give tacit consent to homosexual behavior; while the pope expressed support for civil unions, he has also spoken in his pontificate about the immorality of homosexual acts. It is also important to note that a documentary interview is not a forum for official papal teaching. The pope’s remarks were not presented in their fullness, and no transcript has been presented, so unless the Vatican offers additional clarity, they need to be taken in light of the limited information available about them. WE HAVE SAME-SEX MARRIAGE IN THIS COUNTRY. WHY IS ANYONE TALKING ABOUT CIVIL UNIONS?

There are 29 countries in the world that legally recognize samesex “marriage.” Most of them are in Europe, North America, or South America. But in other parts of the world, the debate over

the definition of marriage is just getting started. In parts of Latin America, for example, the redefinition of marriage is not a settled political topic, and Catholic political activists there have opposed moves to normalize civil union legislation. Opponents of civil unions say they are usually a bridge to samesex marriage legislation, and marriage campaigners in some countries have said they are concerned that LGBT lobbyists will use the pope’s words in the documentary to advance a pathway to same-sex marriage. WHAT DOES THE CHURCH TEACH ABOUT HOMOSEXUALITY?

The Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches that those who identify as LGBT “must be accepted with respect, compassion, and sensitivity. Every sign of unjust discrimination in their regard should be avoided. These persons are called to fulfill God’s will in their lives and, if they are Christians, to unite to the sacrifice of the Lord’s Cross the difficulties they may encounter from their condition.” The Catechism elaborates that homosexual inclinations are “objectively disordered,” homosexual acts are “contrary to the natural law,” and those who identify as lesbian and gay, like all people, are called to the virtue of chastity. ARE CATHOLICS BOUND TO AGREE WITH THE POPE ON CIVIL UNIONS?

Pope Francis’ statements in Francesco do not constitute formal papal teaching. While the pope’s affirmation of the dignity of all people and his call for respect of all people are rooted in Catholic teaching, Catholics are not obliged to support a legislative or policy position because of the pope’s comments in a documentary. Some bishops have expressed that they are awaiting further clarity on the pope’s comments from the Vatican, while one explained that: “While Church teaching on marriage is clear and irreformable, the conversation must continue about the best ways to reverence the dignity of those in same–sex relationships so that they are not subject to any unjust discrimination.”

Cathedral Basilica of St. Peter in Chains PLANNED LITURGIES: Mon–Fri | 7 am, 11:30 am & 5:15 pm Saturday | 11:30 am Weekend Sat | 3 pm & 4:30 pm Sun | 9 am & 11am Confessions | Sat | noon to 2 pm Live-Stream Mass

stpeterinchainscathedral.org N E W S / JAN UA R Y 2021 | 15

The vibrant St. John Bosco was born in Italy and followed in his faithful mother’s footsteps. His father died when he was just 2. From a young age, John was attracted to the priesthood, but he couldn’t afford to go to school. Fortunately, he found a priest willing to help him, and he was able to enter the seminary.

St. John Bosco

After his ordination, Father Bosco was assigned to work in the large city of Turin, Italy. There, he saw children living in terrible poverty and wanted to help them. He stood in the streets juggling or preforming magic tricks to put a smile on the kids’ faces. His friendly demeaner invited them to learn about Christ. His love for young people and faith led Father Bosco to create a boys’ school, that would not only give boys an education, but also a home. In 1859, he established a new religious order, the Salesians, to help further his mission. Thousands attended Father Bosco’s funeral in 1888. Shortly after his death, there was a popular movement to canonize him as a saint. Pope Pius XI canonized St. John Bosco in 1934. The Salesians are now one of the largest religious orders in the Catholic Church, and they still live out their mission to educate and care for youth. St. John Bosco is the patron saint of young people, school children, youth ministers and magicians.

“Serve the Lord joyfully!” BOYS EVANGELIZE FUN ITALY JUGGLE 1 6 | T H E C ATHOLIC TE LEGR A P H

JOHN BOSCO MAGICIAN PRIEST YOUTH MINISTER YOUNG PEOPLE

CAT H OL IC AT H OM E

A RESOLUTION THAT REALLY MATTERS I typically wake up on January 1 with a fresh zeal for life. The previous year is gone, leaving a blank canvas in its place. It’s delightful and thrilling to hope for transformation!

home. Sing your favorite hymn as you go about the day. Pray with family before the day ends, letting each member voice his or her intentions.

I have to admit, though, that I’m not anticipating the same New Year’s Day thrill this year. I dread that the events of 2020, both widespread and personal, will leave a lingering smudge on the canvas of 2021. Though a new year typically stirs the soul and invites change, I’m convinced that, instead of committing to any form of self-improvement, what we really need is MORE JESUS.

INCREASE THE SACRAMENTS

Personally, I’d like a little more certainty in my days. I want life to be better – to be, after the chaos of 2020, peaceful. So, I’m proposing a New Year’s resolution for the entire archdiocese: to increase our intake of Christ. I know it seems like an ambiguous concept, but if we make specific changes in ourselves and with our families, we’ll see holy fruits beyond our expectations. DON’T WAIT TO PRAY

Too often, we put off prayer because we’re discontented with ourselves and we regard God as an authority who wants us on our best behavior. Though the Lord wants us to do good, He accepts us without condition. Lately I’ve found incredible freedom in knowing that the Lord takes me as I am, and there’s more wisdom in asking Him to uphold me and walk with me than trying to handle life alone. Practically speaking, this resolution means offering simple pleas: Hear me. See me. Show me where You are. Give me strength and grace. We can’t hide anything from God, but because of His infinite mercy, we don’t need to. In anything that burdens you, whether current events or personal temptation, just start talking. Jesus hears you and works for your good. Kneel before sacred images in your

When I recall gospel stories that involved desperate circumstances, uncertainty or chaos, I take note of how Jesus reacted. Aboard a storm-tossed boat, He rose from sleep to calm the storm. When an angry mob tried to throw Him over a cliff, He passed peacefully through the crowd. Granted, Christ’s divinity allowed Him to handle crises miraculously, but, still, I can try to imitate His confidence and faith. This happens when I get to know Jesus through the sacraments. In order to reflect His mercy, I need to receive it, and this is best experienced in Confession. In order to love as He loves, I must receive the Eucharist. John the Baptist said, “He must increase, but I must decrease” (Jn. 3:30). As your parish allows, attend Mass not just on Sunday, but at least once more during the week. When this is impossible, make a spiritual communion and trust that Christ will draw near to you. Attend Confession as a family when it’s offered on a weekend, or to avoid lines, make an appointment with your pastor for yourself or your whole family. Praying without hesitation and receiving the Lord as a family through the sacraments amplifies our peace and confidence. We’ll be grounded, ready to handle both personal and common difficulties with grace. With a new year ahead, let us live with divinely-seeded peace. Plans may get canceled. There will be uncertainty, but we will plant ourselves firmly, confident in God’s faithfulness to us. KATIE SCIBA

is a national speaker and Catholic Press Awardwinning columnist. Katie and her husband, Andrew, have been married for 11 years and are blessed with six children. C AT H OL IC AT H OM E / JAN UA R Y 2021 | 17

A CHANGE OF PLANS:

March for Life 2021 B Y EI L E E N C ON N E L L Y, OS U

All resources are available at https://resources.catholicaoc.org/offices/respect-life-ministries/media-events/march-for-life-resources

Travel restrictions and COVID-19 led the Archdiocese of Cincinnati to cancel its annual pilgrimage to the March for Life in Washington, D.C., but there are plenty of ways to mark the event at home. The Office for Respect Life Ministries, working with the Center for the New Evangelization, Catholic Schools Office and the Office for Divine Worship, developed alternative resources for parishes, youth ministry programs, Catholic schools and families to promote awareness of and pray for life issues. Bob Wurzelbacher, director of the Office for Respect Life Ministries, said the buses that usually ferry 300 to 400 students to the national gathering were reserved last summer, but, by September, it became clear that “because of the complications of COVID, we couldn’t do what we normally do. ... It just wasn’t feasible for us to organize the usual bus trip.” ‘ 1 8 | TH E C ATHOLIC TE LEGR A P H

The 48th March for Life, scheduled for Jan. 29, will still take place outdoors in the nation’s capital with the theme “Together Strong: Life Unites.” The event has taken place in Washington, D.C. every January since 1974, and the date is near the anniversary of the Supreme Court’s 1973 rulings, Roe v. Wade and Doe v. Bolton, which legalized abortion. Wurzelbacher said his office typically receives some 1,200 requests to attend the annual youth rally and Mass for Life, traditionally held at the Capital One Arena in downtown Washington, D.C. The vast majority of local youth leaders surveyed indicated they would not participate this year, he noted, but they also said they would appreciate alternatives. The result was a toolkit that includes a three-week series for either a small group or youth group approach; a onenight, stand-alone lesson plan for youth groups; movie night suggestions and discussion ideas; prayer services and liturgy

aids; and lesson plans for incorporating respect life content into Catholic schools. The archdiocesan resource web page will provide updates about local events as information becomes available. Archbishop Dennis M. Schnurr will preside at a pro-life rosary event, which will be live-streamed from the Cathedral Basilica of St. Peter in Chains on Jan. 28 at 7 p.m. “There are a lot of options,” Wurzelbacher said. “Our hope is that people will be even more inspired to understand life issues. People that maybe normally wouldn’t go the March for Life anyway will be more aware, since these resources will bring the issues home for them. It could lead to even more excitement from people wanting to go in 2022.”

Right to

“Even outside of the March for Life, this is an opportunity to look at how we can continue to stand up for life, at home and in our parishes,” he added.

Even outside of the March for Life, this is an opportunity to look at how we can continue to stand up for life at home and in our parishes

Noelle Collis-DeVito, associate director of the Office for Persons with Disabilities, worked with Christen Aquino, managing director, Youth Evangelization and Discipleship, and Adam Kramer, assistant director of CISE schools, on developing many of the resources. She said, “We really looked closely at how to apply things at the Catholic school level, get parishes involved and more people involved, in general. There are great resources for prayer and to really be in solidarity with the March for Life.” As a parent herself, Collis-DeVito sees the movie nights, which include the films Unplanned and October Baby, as ways parishes can create opportunities for families with older children to initiate conversations about life issues. In addition, she said, the youth ministry resources “could be adapted for classroom use, so students can look the bigger issues, then apply the lessons to themselves and the outward community.” For example, the goals of the three-week Sacred Series are to know the sacredness of all human life, especially your own sacredness and that of marginalized people; and take one step toward better self-care; and to reach out to someone in the margins. This resource is adaptable for two different schedule options and could easily be incorporated into a classroom.

Project Rachel

A post-abortive healing ministry of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati

Anyone affected by an abortion experience is welcome to join us for a Day of Reflection on February 20. A Dayton Retreat for Mothers who have lost a child to abortion will be May 21-23. Please call for more information and to learn about safety protocols in place due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Please visit www.catholicaoc.org/projectrachel for the most up-to-date information. Confidential Communication 513.784.0531 • hopeandhealingcinci@gmail.com

This is where we live.

6,046* abortions performed in our Archdiocese in 2019

CincinnatiRighttoLife.org

20,102* total in Ohio in 2019

61,628,584** since 1973 in the U.S.

*Table 6. Induced Abortions Reported in Ohio, by County of Occurence, 2005-2019, odh.ohio.gov **Abortion Statistics, United States Data and Trends, www.NRLC.org

R E S P E C T L IF E / JAN U A R Y 2021 | 19

WE ARE

prolife

St. Vincent de Paul Parish 4026 River Rd Cincinnati, OH St. Michael Parish Ft. Loramie, OH Sts. Peter & Paul Parish Newport, OH

God created mankind in his image; in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them. Gen. 1:27

www.stgertrude.org

St. Francis de Sales 1600 Madison Rd Est 1849 Our Lady of Guadalupe Montezuma, OH Life is precious! St. Mary of the Woods Russells Point, OH

Choose life (Dt 30:19)

Kenwood Catholic Pastoral Region Every life is sacred 2 0 | T H E C ATHOLIC TE LEGR A P H

St. Saviour Parish Sycamore Township St. James the Greater White Oak Corpus Christi Church Cincinnati, OH We are grateful for and respect ALL life, from conception to natural death! St. Aloysius on-the-Ohio & St. Simon the Apostle Pastoral Region Cincinnati, OH We recognize the Sanctity of Life. We thank God for our life on this Sunday.

St. Jude Church Bridgetown, OH

Rev. Michael Hay Est 1956

St. Maximilian Kolbe I will never forget you. Your name is carved in the palm of my hand. (Isiah 49:14-16)

St. Dominic Parish Cincinnati, OH

Life - What a wonderful gift!

St. John Neumann Church 12191 Mill Rd Cincinnati, OH 45240 513-742-0953

St. Margaret Mary Church 1830 W. Galbraith Rd Cincinnati, OH 45239 513-521-7387

St. Columban Church Loveland, OH

Before you were formed...I knew you, and before you were born I consecrated you. (Jer 1:4)

Supporting life from conception until natural death. St. Mary of the Assumption Parish, Springboro, OH & St. Augustine Parish, Waynesville, OH We support the dignity of life from the very beginning.

STUDENTS FOR LIFE When we think of the pro-life movement in this country, it is heartening to know how many young people are involved. If you attend the annual March for Life in Washington, D.C., for example, there is a huge representation by young people in high school and college. This is great news! In honor of Catholic Schools Week, this month, we will take a look at what young people are doing in the pro-life movement right here in our Catholic schools. We spoke with with Jordan Moorman, the Ohio/Kentucky Regional Coordinator for Students for Life of America, about their great work in mobilizing what we call the “Pro-Life Generation” to abolish abortion in America. We also spoke with some enthusiastic area students who are leading their school pro-life groups at high schools across the archdiocese. Tune in to find out what they are doing, and get more ideas for what you can do or how you can start a group in your own school. Listen in at being-pro-life.buzzsprout.com/. This month’s podcasts: • Jan 5: Jordan Moorman of Students for Life • Jan 12: Seton and Mt. Notre Dame High Schools • Jan 19: Carroll High School

7711 Joseph St Mt. Healthy, OH 45231

St. Francis Xavier Downtown Cincinnati

• Jan 26: Lehman Catholic High School B O B WURZELB A CHER is the director of the Office for Respect Life Ministries. He and his wife, Cindy, live in Sharonville with their two young daughters.

RE S P E C T L IF E / JAN U A R Y 2021 | 21

My experience as a federal agent taught me to be objective and thorough, be able to ask the tough questions, review evidence objectively ... and render an objective decision based on the testimony and evidence.

Bill Mitchell Former Federal Agent Begins New Role in Service of the Church B Y JE N N IF E R S C H AC K

Bill Mitchell is a former federal agent for the U.S. Department of Labor and a parishioner of Our Lady of Victory Parish in Delhi. He is also the new Safe Environment Coordinator of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati.

Mitchell considers his new role both a blessing and an opportunity for service. “I was blessed that the timing worked out for me to apply for this job. I see it as an opportunity for me to give back. After leaving my former career as a federal agent for 33 years, it has been a blessing to move into this role,” he said. He continued, “My experience as a federal agent taught me to be objective and thorough, be able to ask the tough questions, review evidence objectively, deal with only the facts of each situation and render an objective decision based on the testimony and evidence.” 2 2 | TH E C ATHOLIC TE LEGR A P H

The safety of all of God’s children has been at the forefront of archdiocesan policy for decades. The Church first promulgated the Decree on Child Protection in 1993. The robust set of policies and procedures set forth in the Decree requires a full-time employee to ensure that all steps are being taken to protect children in the Archdiocese of Cincinnati. Mitchell observed, “I don’t think people realize all of the policies and safety checks in place at the archdiocese. And, in addition to my role, there are more than 360 safe environment coordinators in parishes and schools throughout the archdiocese working to ensure safety each day.” Responding to the hundreds of safe environment coordinators is just one of Mitchell’s many responsibilities. He also oversees the required background checks on all clerics, employees and volunteers; the ongoing training for clerics, employees and volunteers to recognize the signs of abuse of children; and the means and procedures for reporting suspected abuse. He ensures the immediate reporting of all allegations of abuse to civil authorities. He also serves as an ex-officio member of the review board that assists the archbishop in responding to allegations of abuse. Mitchell is also involved in training children at Catholics

schools and in religious education programs about the warning signs of abuse. He also coordinates the yearly United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) independent audit of policies and procedures. According to Mitchell, the annual independent review has favorably assessed the archdiocese’s efforts towards maintaining a safe environment. “The Archdiocese of Cincinnati takes safe environment procedures very seriously,” he said. “We have been compliant in every audit by the USCCB since 2006.” Anyone who suspects abuse can, in addition to reporting it to civil authorities, make a report directly to the archdiocese. In recent years, two new online reporting systems have been implemented: EthicsPoint and CBAR (Catholic Bishop Abuse Reporting). Both systems alert the archdiocese of new reports immediately. The Report Misconduct link is available at catholicaoc.org. Once someone makes a report of abuse in EthicsPoints, Mitchell is notified immediately and tasked with ensuring that the matter is thoroughly addressed. “The first thing I do is make sure the report was made to the local authorities. That is the first thing we do with any abuse allegation. We want to make sure the local authorities have the report of the issue. Quite often, an investigation has been started at the school or parish, but, in addition, the local authorities will often want to begin an investigation. My role is to stay on top of the situation. I’ll talk to Children’s Services or the police detective assigned to the case. If we do find an allegation that has been substantiated, we are going to make sure the individual doesn’t work anywhere in the archdiocese, not just at that particular location,” Mitchell said. If you see something, say something. Report any concerns you have about the abuse of a minor or vulnerable adult to the civil authorities. Under the new leadership and direction of Mitchell, the Archdiocese of Cincinnati remains committed to ensuring a safe environment for children and vulnerable adults and committed to continuing to support victims with assistance and prayer. Detailed information about the Decree on Child Protection, VIRTUS certification, background checks and the Review Board can also all be found on the web page: www.catholicaoc.org/restoring-trust

I believe in one God, the Father Almighty. I believe in one lord Jesus Christ.

We believe in Life!

We respect all human life at all stages, from conception to death.

3033 Far Hills Ave., Kettering, OH 45429

I believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the giver of life. N E W S / JAN U A R Y 2021 | 23

Rose Von Erden Mount Notre Dame Senior’s Passion for Pro-Life Ministry BY R E G AN M E YE R

Rose Von Erden does a lot at Mount Notre Dame High School (MND). She’s on the field hockey team, involved in multiple honors societies and serves through the Society of St. Vincent de Paul. She’s has multiple AP and honors classes to her credit, and is currently at the top of her class. By all accounts, she’s a typical, highly-accomplished high school student. But what sets her apart is her passion for the pro-life movement. Von Erden serves as president of MND’s Respect for Life service program. “Pro-life is being a voice of the voiceless,” Von Erden said. “It’s cliche within the pro-life movement, but you realize that these babies don’t have a voice. People have separated this ball of tissue from the life that it is. It makes me so sad that people are in such denial. We’re living in a culture of death and convenience.” Von Erden started going to Respect for Life meetings her freshman year. At the time, just six or seven students attended each meeting. Now, in her third year as president, attendance has climbed to more than 50 students. “Certainly, some of that is the enthusiasm that Rose has spread,” club moderator Sharon Bohlen said. “Part of it might be cultural, as well. Our nation today is hostile to life. So our pro-life club is a safe place for girls to come and support the pro-life movement.” Bohlen said that another reason for the newfound enthusiasm is the club is now a recognized service program under MND’s service umbrella. “We’re under the umbrella of campus ministry. Because of that, the girls are required to attend meetings if they want to go to March for Life. It provides some accountability,” Bohlen said. The program sends a contingent to the March for Life in 2 4 | T H E C ATHOLIC TE LEGR A P H

Washington, D.C., every year. MND sent about 40 girls to D.C. for the march this year, the largest number in recent memory. As much as the Respect for Life service program focuses on the abortion issue, it has a “womb to tomb” philosophy. Presentations at meetings vary from information about euthanasia to the foster care system. Students also participate in service projects like writing cards to mothers who choose life, or elderly people quarantined in care facilities.

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“Our pro-life club is a safe place for girls to come and support the pro-life movement.” This year, Von Erden focused on sharing the pro-life message with the rest of MND. Students put up pro-life signs throughout the school. End-of-year plans include a school-wide “baby drive.”

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Von Erden will graduate in May, and she hopes to turn her passion for pro-life causes into a career. “I want to go to law school. I’ve learned more about pro-bono lawyers who work on cases that people are afraid to take because they pertain to life issues. I’d like to work on cases like that,” Von Erden said.

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R E S P E C T L IF E / JAN U A R Y 2021 | 25

Papal Nuncio Brings Blessings to Local School, Parish St. Ignatius Parish’s New School Building Blessed by Pope’s Ambassador B Y JOH N S T E G E M AN

The occasion for Archbishop Pierre’s visit was the 50th anniversary of the dedication of St. Ignatius’ present church building, but the visit was a blessing on multiple fronts.

additional significance. Now in its second year, St. Ignatius’ pre-school had yet to find its permanent a home for its 99 pre-school and pre-Kindergarten students. They considered a building across the street, but, eventually they converted the parish meeting rooms behind the church. Now, a former maintenance area in the back of the main school building has been renovated. Students hope to begin learning in the new rooms after Christmas break.

While in town, Archbishop Pierre met with and blessed St. Ignatius pre-Kindergarten children as well as their soonto-be opened classrooms. He also confirmed eighth-grade students during Masses at the Cathedral Basilica of St. Peter in Chains, had an hour-long question-and-answer session with seventh-grade students and celebrated Mass with St. Ignatius teaching staff.

“We are looking forward to integrating our pre-school rooms into our main school building in the near future,” said Denise Schnurr, director of St. Ignatius’ pre-school. “We will all be under one roof, our learning community together. We also will be able to establish relationships with our big sisters and big brothers and learn from the older children at school.”

Each moment with the pope’s ambassador was special, but the blessing of the new pre-school classrooms had

Preparing the students for the nuncio’s visit was not only educational, but fun.

Parishioners and students at St. Ignatius of Loyola in Monfort Heights delighted in an early November visit from Archbishop Christophe Pierre, the Aposotlic Nuncio to the U.S.

2 6 | T H E C A THOLIC TELE GR A PH

“Our school kids did a video answering the question of what a nuncio is,” Father Fernandes said. “We asked what a nuncio is, and they gave their answers. Some thought he was a cardinal, some thought he was a politician or that he would be my new assistant coming to help say Mass. There were all kinds of funny answers.” A nuncio’s role is to serve as an ambassador of the Holy See to an assigned nation. “We started talking with the children about a month before his visit,” said Schnurr. “We learned the song ‘Frère Jacques’ because we knew he was French and we wanted him to feel welcome. “We also created a special gift for him and His Holiness Pope Francis,” she said. “It was a painting on a small canvas using each child’s fingerprint to form the shape of the cross using blue and yellow, our school colors. The nuncio also blessed the children and the teachers. He then sang a song to us in French.

“The children warmed up to him right away and had much to share with him, as 5-year-olds generally do. It was truly a special moment for all of us.” At a Nov. 6 Mass, Archbishop Pierre spoke directly to school staff. He acknowledged that Catholic schools like St. Ignatius educate the whole person and added that an educator’s role is that of a guide. “In the course of the journey of faith, the student, entrusted to our care, will have to verify whether the faith, and its promise of eternal life corresponds to his or her heart’s desire,” Archbishop Pierre said. “They will have to ask questions. This involves, on our part, taking a risk – the risk of freedom. The young person must be guided to use his or her freedom along the journey. This is your vocation – to lead and guide them. The Church is counting on you.”

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Alter High School students stand in the Rosary Garden outside the Dayton school’s front doors.

2 8 | T H E C A THOLIC TELE GR A P H

Faith. Excellence. Service. Three Guiding Principles for Our Catholic Schools B Y M IC H E L L E D U S H E N S K Y

Since 1974, Catholic schools around the country have participated in Catholic Schools Week (CSW). Traditionally, CSW is held at the end of January, and, each year, the National Catholic Education Association (NCEA) chooses a theme to highlight an aspect of Catholic schools. This year’s theme, “Catholic Schools: Faith. Excellence. Service.” calls attention to the purpose of Catholic schools – to form disciples, to grow the whole person and encourage students to be witnesses to Catholic social teaching. For the 111 Catholic schools in the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, faith, excellence and service mean going above and beyond.

In addition to school Masses, Alter offers a student-run Bible study and weekly faith sharing opportunities. On Wednesday mornings, Alter has Upper Room, a student gathering that includes worship, prayer and fellowship.

“They are guiding principles for all our schools,” said Superintendent Susie Gibbons. “If faith isn’t the first thing that we talk about – the beginning and the end and embedded everywhere – then we might as well close our doors.”

“We are determined to succeed at a level of excellence because that’s what we’re created for,” said Lambert. “We have a Creator who has told us anything is possible, that we’re created in His likeness and image and we’re made for excellence. I think it permeates everything we do.”

If you spend time at any of the 22 high schools or 89 elementary schools in the archdiocese, you experience faith, excellence and service at their best. Here’s a deeper look at how three of these outstanding schools across Western and Southwestern Ohio live out this year’s Catholic Schools Week theme. ARCHBISHOP ALTER HIGH SCHOOL, DAYTON

Founded in 1962 as the fifth Catholic high school in the archdiocese and named after its fifth archbishop, Archbishop Alter High School is committed to challenging students to reach their full potential. For the more than 10,000 alumni and Alter’s current 515 students, that entails more than just receiving a high-quality academic experience. Principal Lourdes Lambert said Alter is, first and foremost, a Catholic high school – and the crux of any Catholic school is faith. At Alter, that means not only teaching students to be morally and ethically grounded, to be good stewards of the earth, to serve others and to respect life and the dignity of every person, while also providing opportunities for students to share and live their faith.

As the school motto says, Alter was “founded in faith,” and it is also “preserved with pride” – a pride that comes from a tradition of excellence. Consistently at the top of the threshold for standardized testing and achieving great successes in athletics, Alter strives for excellence both inside and outside the classroom, on and off the field.

The school is also “sustained by [a] spirit” that manifests itself in the way the students give of their time, talent and treasure. Alter engages in whole-school and grade-specific service opportunities. For example, freshmen spend an entire day serving nonprofit agencies in the Dayton area, juniors serve the needs of their parishes, and the whole school participated in a toy drive for a local children’s charity last Christmas. “I’ve been blown away,” said Lambert. “I get to see God’s love in action every single day through the children that come to this school, through the parents, through the teachers.” GUARDIAN ANGELS SCHOOL, CINCINNATI

In the words of Principal Corey Stoops, Guardian Angels School (GA) is a very special place. Founded in 1895, the elementary school focuses on delivering an individualized education to each student, and preparing him or her to be a faithful disciple of Christ through service and leadership. In fact, students are encouraged to earn their HALO’s by being Honest, Accountable and a Leader to Others. C AT H OL IC S C H OOL S W E E K / JAN U A R Y 2021 | 29

While service and leadership are two aspects the faculty and students focus on every day, it’s Christ who is at the center of the school.

every student excels academically.

“You can define [excellence] in so many ways,” said Stoops. “Academics definitely are a part of that, and we’re at the top of tiers across the board in the academic “Faith guides us in everything we do,” said subjects. But, really, more than that, we Stoops. “We’re blessed to have so many define excellence as making sure that faith opportunities, but, really, who we everybody is challenged and guided and are is the culmination of all of those things taught according to his or her ability coming together to create outstanding level. It’s not just a people – people of faith, general approach who are here for one for everybody. It another, who serve one is looking at the another and who are individual student kind and respectful to I get to see God’s and determining what one another.” love in action every he or she needs to be successful.” From weekly Mass and single day through the monthly adoration to children who come to Every student at GA recitation of the school also participates in prayer every morning this school, through community service. and the Angel of God the parents... prayer every afternoon, the students at GA have “As Catholic many opportunities to engage in faith. Christians, we’re responsible for helping Other traditions include a living rosary others,” said Stoops. “We find the need in October, annual living Stations of that is present within our community and the Cross and a special celebration on outside our community, and we go – we the Feast of the Guardian Angels. The serve.” elementary school also has a relationship with Mount St. Mary’s Seminary and GA’s biggest service event is Servathon, participates in the Adopt a Seminarian a full day of service. For some of the program. classes, that means going to Matthew 25 Ministries or the food bank. For In addition to helping students grow the younger grade levels, it’s staying on spiritually, GA works hard to make sure campus and making treat bags for service 3 0 | TH E C ATHOLIC TE LEGR A P H

members. But Stoops said that what’s most important is teaching children and their families the importance of service. “We really try to instill a servant’s heart in all we do,” said Stoops. “We want our students to be reflective of who they are, the talents that they have been given, and then to take that a step further and say, ‘How can I use these talents and these gifts to help others?’” PIQUA CATHOLIC SCHOOL, PIQUA

You see faith ... in the things we do every day,” he added. Piqua Catholic offers its current 187 preschool through eighth students many opportunities to share and deepen their faith. Every morning during announcements, the entire school offers special intentions and prays together. On Wednesdays, there is an all-school Mass, followed by adoration for third through eighth graders. This past October, all students participated in a living rosary. And before they graduate, every student attends two Damascus Catholic Mission retreats where they learn about science, nature, leadership and faith. When it comes to excellence, Zimmerman said he talks to the kids about being the best version of themselves every day, whether that’s in the classroom, on the court or at home. He also said that excellence is striving to be the best school for its students and their families.

Since its founding in 1987, Piqua Catholic Elementary School has provided an engaging education to prepare its students for a bright future. This is made possible because Jesus is at the center of everything Piqua Catholic does.

With Jesus at the heart of Piqua Catholic, serving others is a natural manifestation of the school’s mission. From collecting canned goods and toiletries for The Bethany Center to sending care packages to the military, Piqua Catholic focuses on the corporal works of mercy as a way to serve people in the surrounding area.

“Our mission here is to be an example of Jesus’ love,” says Principal Brad Zimmerman. “Faith isn’t something that you keep quiet. Faith is something that you share with others through your words and actions. ... You see faith as Jesus.

“[Service] makes me think of the virtue of charity, which involves selfless, sacrificial love or giving of oneself – which immediately makes me think of Christ,” said Zimmerman. “We’re here to serve others ... to be an example of Jesus’ love.”

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Daw n Picker il l St. John XXIII School Principal Embraces Faith and Silver Linings BY KA R Y EL L EN B ER GER

For eight years, Dawn Pickerill has led students, teachers and administrators as principal of St. John XXIII Catholic School in Middletown. Her love of education and children, though, have been a constant throughout her entire life. Growing up with her father in the U.S. Navy, Pickerill attended schools around the world, including Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic School in Guam. After her father retired from the military, Pickerill attended high school in Milford, and then went to Rowen University in Glassboro, NJ. She found her way back to Ohio, though, and eventually to St. John XXIII School. “I can say with absolute conviction that God put me exactly where He wanted me,” Pickerill said. “It wasn’t necessarily where I wanted to be at the time, but He certainly knew what He was doing.” Pickerill described being at St. John XXIII School as being with family – the highs, lows and everything in between. That included coming together when COVID-19 struck. Pickerill, however, found a way to turn the negativity of the situation into a positive. “[COVID-19] certainly has me thinking outside of the box more than I ever have,” Pickerill said. “It requires me to do jobs that I don’t normally do because we all have to pitch in to make being in school during a global pandemic happen... Whether it’s teaching, covering lunch duty, doing dismissal duty, etc. Anytime I get to be with the kids, it is a positive thing. I love how it has forced us all to learn new and different ways of teaching, too. I’ve had to learn these right along with the teachers and students, and I think teaching has been improved and forever changed because of things we have all learned due to COVID-19.” Many including the school’s parish, Holy Family, where Pickerill and her family attend, and pastor Father John Civille help support her in many roles. “[Father Civille] makes my job so much easier,” Pickerill 3 2 | T H E C ATHOLIC TE LEGR A PH

shared. “He is there if I need him, but otherwise, he gives me the autonomy to do the job the way I think teaching has that I see is best. He is absolutely wonderful. And been improved and the St. John XXIII and forever changed Middletown communities because of things we have always been so welcoming and supportive. have all learned due There are so many people who love St. John XXIII to COVID-19. and are willing to give of their time, talents and treasures. I continue to be amazed at their generosity and know I couldn’t do my job without their love and guidance.” Along with the love for her school community, Pickerill is a dedicated wife of 31 years to her husband, Ted, and proud mom to daughter, Allie, and son, Christopher. Her favorite Bible verse, Pickerill said is, “I prayed for this child and the Lord has granted me what I asked of him (1 Sam. 1:27).” She said, “I prayed for children, and the Lord blessed me with the two best kids a mom could ever ask for, but then He continues to bless me each day with these additional children to love, nurture and teach. I am so very blessed.”

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A Pandemic School Year Catholic Schools Across Western and Southwestern Ohio Rise to the Challenge

BY BONNIE VAN

Backpack: Check. Lunch: Check. Mask: Check. The 2020-21 school year began in earnest with students, teachers and parents yearning for learning to go back to the classroom, but everyone knew things would be different and all would have to do their part to stay on campus. “It was tough in the beginning, but it has gotten easier,” admitted Lena Hudson, a fifth-grader at Cardinal Pacelli School in Cincinnati, about the new protocols. Armed with lessons learned from the spring shutdown, along with a few summer months to reset, relearn and rethink both remote and in-person education, principals at many schools throughout the Archdiocese of Cincinnati feel they have gotten it right – and it shows. Andrew Arn, principal of St. Michael School in Ripley, compared the difference between the spring and fall sessions as “night and day.” “I believe we are teaching at a higher level now and are able to reach all students better than we did in the spring,” Arn said. Blane Collison, principal of Bishop Fenwick High School in Cincinnati, said the biggest challenge has been “ensuring that all areas of the schools and its facilities are able to be sanitized,” and commended students for adhering to the protocols and adapting to changes in routines. “I think students, teachers and parents [realize] the importance of the sense of family and community that we have displayed throughout this difficult time,” said Collison.

“I really do believe that you learn the best lessons through adversity.” 3344 || TH E C ATHOLIC TE LEGR A P H

“Planning all summer truly made the difference as we began the 2020-2021 school year,” said Susan Gibbons, superintendent of Catholic Schools for the Archdiocese of Cincinnati. “Our Catholic schools have tailored learning to their own unique communities. They are in constant communication with local health departments and doing their best to partner with families to ensure the health and safety of all their students.”

Terri Cento, principal of Cardinal Pacelli School, said the current school year has been “fantastic” compared to last spring. She spent many hours during the summer studying the layout of the campus to plan for social distancing during daily instruction, a situation that involved placing privacy shields and plexiglass around both students’ and teachers’ desks.

ACHIEVE

“The students were so happy returning to school and getting back to normal that I have not heard any complaints except for wearing masks at recess and P.E. classes,” said Cento. “Masks are definitely not my favorite accessory,” said Ava Folk, an eighth-grader and student council vice-president at Cardinal Pacelli, who admitted her biggest problem with masks was remembering to bring one. “There have been many times I have forgotten a mask and had to use a clean one of my mom’s. Luckily, we always keep extra masks in the car!”

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Some of the lessons learned, according to both principals and students, include working together, constant communication, patience and flexibility. Bishop Fenwick High senior class president Carter Earls said he also learned how to prioritize and “embrace life to the fullest,” especially during times of “overwhelming challenges.”

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“I really do believe that you learn the best lessons through adversity,” said Earls. “So, I think, ultimately, the class of 2021 will be stronger and better for it.” “I think we all appreciate our many blessings even more,” said Arn. “I have seen our community come together despite the world seemingly falling apart over this time. We are a rural school, and I have seen neighbors checking on each other, and showing true compassion for each other. Within our school, I have seen teachers all at different places in their careers work together and learn from each other. There has been a lot of growth, particularly over the past few months. I have seen a change in students as well. They have a real sense of urgency.”

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M o P ri kkel Catholic Central’s Campus Minister Shaped by Tragedy and a Supportive Faith Community BY M AR K D AN IS

Sometimes, our most difficult experiences are what prepare us for a life’s mission. This is certainly true for Maureen “Mo” Prikkel, the Pre-K through eighth grade campus minister at Catholic Central School in Springfield. Catholic Central is an institution with a proud, 90-year history of providing a faith-based, college-prep education. The school’s president, Michael Raiff, said he recently saw the need, “to strengthen the faith of practicing Catholics, but also to assist in introducing the faith to others in our school and community.” Catholic Central’s student population is 53 percent Catholic, which, according to Raiff, reflects the local community. “We cannot be restricted by metrics of who make up our school. We will continue to focus on Catholic education, but we must also think critically about how to be servant leaders to the Springfield community,” said Raif. They could not have found a more committed champion for this undertaking than Prikkel. Her own life experience prepared her well to support Catholic Central’s mission. Growing up in Beavercreek, Prikkel was a member of St. Luke Parish and attended Chaminade Julienne Catholic High School

(CJ) in Dayton. She was very active, playing basketball and tennis. She also participated in faith activities, including FLIGHT, (Faith Leaders in God’s Hands Today), a pro-life group and served as a student leader for Marianist LIFE (Living in Faith Experience). She served as a retreat leader and also worked with the homeless in Dayton. Prikkel confessed to being naturally shy, but said the community support she received when she endured a life-altering tragedy drew her into active ministry. During her freshman year, Prikkel’s mother, Peggy, died unexpectedly. It was the single worst time of her life. “I was not sure who God was any longer. I did not understand the meaning of relationship with Him or why He would allow such loss and suffering,” she said.

“Those relationships made me want to be the person others could turn to and talk with.”

But the CJ and St. Luke’s Parish communities rallied around her, allowing her to find meaning in the midst of suffering. She bonded with a high school friend who was enduring the loss of her father. Prikkel also reflected on her participation in a grief community at CJ. “I did not want to go,” she said, “but these people helped me to realize there was more reason to trust in God than to question Him.” Following graduation, Prikkel pursued an undergraduate degree in pastoral leadership at Marian University in Indiana. Each of her four years included a summer internship that confirmed the call to faith ministry she received in the midst of her suffering. Reflecting on those events, she paused for a moment, appearing to steel herself, before she shared: “If my mom had not passed when she did, my faith life would not be what it is today. Those relationships made me want to be the person others could turn to and talk with.” Prikkel continued, “I want to have a lasting impact on the students at Catholic Central, similar to the impact those St. Luke’s and CJ had on me. I have had tremendous highs and lows in my faith life, and these give me an opportunity to share my experiences with students, walk with them on their own journeys and encourage them to be the person God calls them to be.”

3 6 | T H E CATHOLIC TE LEGR A P H

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The Historical Significance of Religious Educators in the Northern Archdiocese B Y MATT HESS

Those visiting the “Land of the Cross Tipped Churches” often ask why there are few Catholic Schools accompanying them. This is due to the large number of community schools, comprised of mostly Catholic students, that had sisters ministering in them from their early years, such as Minster and Maria Stein. Other communities formed mergers between Catholic and public schools in the mid-20th Century after their Catholic populations Students at schools grew. Places like Coldwater, Fort Recovery within close proximity and Russia opted to pool resources in this way and keep the established sisters in their to the church, were classrooms.

Catholic education in the northern archdiocese is a legacy inherited from the Sisters of the Precious Blood who began in a parish church in the winter of 1844. These dedicated sisters forged a relationship with the community that endured for more than a century as they maintained a presence in many public schools in Mercer, Auglaize, Darke and Shelby Counties.

The Sisters of the Precious Blood wanted to be a life-giving presence to all of their students, Catholic or otherwise, so early on, they focused on formalizing their permitted to walk over training. This made them skilled enough RELIGIOUS EDUCATION AND to meet state standards for public schools, and visit the Blessed PUBLIC SCHOOLS which, in the past, were more stringent Sacrament during their than parochial schools. In 1852, near How did religious education work within lunch hour. Cassella, OH, the sisters founded one the framework of the public school day? of the schools to train teachers. This The schools used “release time” for the later moved to the motherhouse at Maria Stein. As the sisters to teach catechism, or for students to attend Mass. sisters’ community grew and state standards became more In most cases, this took place before the start of the formal demanding, they opened a new motherhouse on the north school day. It was common also to find religious articles in side of Dayton in 1923. This gave them closer proximity the classrooms. Crucifixes and statues of Mary were often to the University of Dayton, where they received their visible, especially if the building was a former Catholic education degrees. School that the public school rented after consolidation. 3 8 | TH E CA THOLIC TEL EGR A PH

Bibles were in the classrooms, and students who finished their assigned work could read them. Also during this time, students at schools within close proximity to the church, were permitted to walk over and visit the Blessed Sacrament during their lunch hour. The number of sisters teaching in public schools began to decline in the 1960s, with the last sister leaving public education in the late 1990s. The situation came to a head in 1963 with a Fort Recovery court case, as the practice was not without controversy in some communities with people of mixed faiths. There were three Catholic elementary schools that combined with the public school corporation in the 1950s. The plaintiff asserted that Catholic students were bused to these schools, while Protestants went to another. He also said that because release time was midday, there was little to no distinction between time for religious study and the formal school day. The 1965 ruling was that students were to be bused to the elementary building they lived closest to and the district would no longer use release time, but the Precious Blood Sisters could remain ministering to students by their presence in the classroom.

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As the decades passed, the sisters began to discern where God was calling them. Many found new ministries where the need was greater. The lay people in the area had become qualified to teach and even lead catechism classes. Thus, religious education programs were taken over by parish members and the need for sisters to fill this role diminished. The rural, predominantly Catholic communities that remain in this area still encourage the integration of faith into the formation of their students. This is often visible through athletic teams praying together before competitions or students attending weekday morning Mass together before school, as well as in the numerous and active Catholic youth groups that strengthen their faith outside of school and catechism hours. It is a dedicated communal approach that continues the traditions and legacy of the sisters who served them.

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Month, COJ presented Chris Winiarski, director of Campus Ministry at La Salle High School, along with John Connell and Audrey Young, with the COJ 2020 Hope, Strength and Healing Award, for going above and beyond to identify and support grieving children. Chris Winiarski is the director of Campus Ministry at La Salle High School. He first became involved with COJ when La Salle High School faced a student tragedy.

Every student carries... things – not just a computer or notebooks, but experiences and grief. “Sheila [COJ founder and executive director] gave us a call in the middle of a student tragedy. She showed up at our doorstep and asked, ‘What can we do to help?’ Ever since then, my life, and so many young men’s lives, have been changed.”

Local Hero Honored La Salle High School’s Campus Minister Recognized by Companions on a Journey for National Child’s Grief Awareness Day BY JA CQUEL I NE L A ZA R

One in 11 children in Ohio will experience the death of a parent or sibling by their 18th birthday, and by 24, this statistic doubles. When a child or teen experiences the death of a family member or close friend, it can rattle them to their core, leaving their future uncertain. They often feel disconnected from family and friends, as if they’re no longer normal. Companions on a Journey (COJ) is an organization that helps these children and families as they go through difficult times. They provide ongoing support for the bereaved, surrounding them with hope, strength and healing as they create their new life balance. On Nov. 19, during National Children’s Grief Awareness 4 0 | T H E C ATHOLIC TE LEGR A PH

As a past COJ board member, Winiarski understands the importance of COJ’s mission: to make sure that no child or teen grieves alone. By recognizing the injury of the heart and soul, Chris connects with each child he meets and helps them to find hope, strength, and healing. “Every student carries... things – not just a computer or notebooks, but experiences and grief. To help them unpack that has really helped me connect with students and see them for who they are.” When talking about what COJ means to La Salle High School, Winiarski said, “Being at an all-boys Catholic high school, often, talking about feelings and emotions is one of the things that society tells young men not to do. So in the hour they have COJ, they can let their guards down and heal. They can find that hope, strength and healing.” Winiarski further helps carry COJ’s mission by recruiting volunteers and assisting with fundraising efforts. COJ offers a variety of monthly school and community-based support groups to meet each person wherever they are on their grief journey, creating a power of connection that helps each person know that they are not alone. COJ is founded in faith, but welcomes people of all religions, identities and affiliations without exception. To learn more, visit companionsonajourney.org or call (513) 870-9108.

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C AT H OL IC S C H OOL S W E E K / JAN U A R Y 2021 | 41

A C L OS E R L OOK

THE EDUCATION OF A CATHOLIC CHRISTIAN Toward the end of his life, American journalist and historian Henry Adams, dissatisfied with the adequacy of his traditional education, composed his memoir, The Education of Henry Adams. “The object of education,” he suggested, “should be the teaching . . . [of ] how to react with vigor and economy” to problems that challenge a person. A thorough “education should try to lessen the obstacles, diminish the friction, invigorate the energy, and should train minds to react, not at haphazard, but by choice, on the lines of force that attract their world.” In other words, education should not be about the mere accumulation of facts. Rather, the goal of a complete education is to attain the intellectual and moral skills to clear the unforeseen hurdles that confront us, and to negotiate through the maze of competing claims on our lives. It should be broad enough to prepare us to anticipate obstacles and deep enough to equip us to overcome them. Our Catholic tradition provides a myriad of tools for the rigorous exercise that such an education requires, and from which we can draw in order to achieve such skill, long after our “formal” education has ended.

It is a distinctly Protestant error to think that we can read and understand the depths of the Bible’s richness “on our own,” outside the teaching authority of the Church. This is especially a problem in the American Church, where our moral lives are so strongly infected by false narratives of radical autonomy and extreme individualism. We should only read the Bible within the authoritative community of faith that formed and interprets it. As the Second Vatican Council’s Dei Verbum puts it, “sacred tradition, Sacred Scripture and the teaching authority of the Church . . . are so linked and joined together that one cannot stand without the others.” This is why the Catechism should always accompany our encounter with Scripture, so that we can draw upon the rich and vibrant tradition that has developed over 2,000 years of reflection on the Catechism’s four principal parts: dogma, liturgy and sacraments, morality, and prayer. The Catechism, as the definitive statement of the meaning of Sacred Scripture, and Sacred Tradition is the foundation of the education of a Catholic.

BASIC EXERCISE: CATECHISM AND SCRIPTURE

ADVANCED FITNESS: THE ENCYCLICAL AND CONSTITUTIONAL TRADITION

Such a continuing educational project should begin with the foundational elements of Sacred Scripture and the definitive statement of Catholic teaching, the Catechism of the Catholic Church. Because the Bible is the Church’s creation, and thus the Church’s book, it must always be encountered through the lens of the Church’s own authoritative interpretation.

In addition to the Catechism, the magisterium of the Church has provided the educated Catholic with a rich trove of deeper reflections on various aspects of the Church’s teaching. While the list is long, and the choices of documents might be daunting, perhaps the best place to start is with two central documents from the Second Vatican

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of St. Paul VI, stating the Church’s teaching on the entire range of life issues, from womb to tomb. And Centesimus Annus, promulgated on the hundredth anniversary of Pope Leo XIII’s Rerum Novarum, is the clearest magisterial statement on economic and political life. This encyclical is a carefully defined and The goal of a complete delimited affirmation of free political and economic systems, acknowledging their education is to attain good, but carefully warning about their the intellectual tendencies toward excess.

Council: Lumen Gentium and Gaudium et Spes. Together, these “Constitutions” form two pillars of the Council, the former on nature of the Church itself, and the latter on the Church’s mission in the modern world. And perhaps no document is more urgent for the contemporary Catholic than Pope St. Paul VI’s definitive statement on Catholic sexual morality, Humanae Vitae. Succinct in its statement of Catholic teaching and prescient in its predictions about the perils of ignoring it, Humanae Vitae stands as an abiding witness against the sexual licentiousness of modern secular culture, and a celebration of the goodness of chaste sexuality and the joy of human life.

and moral skills to clear the unforeseen hurdles that confront us...

Finally, no Catholic education is complete without what I call the three greatest encyclicals of the prodigious theological legacy of Pope St. John Paul II: Veritatis Splendor, Evangelium Vitae and Centesimus Annus. In VS, St. John Paul systematically sets forth the very foundations of the Church’s moral doctrine, contrasting it with contemporary errors. Evangelium Vitae extends and deepens the teaching

Of course, the education of a Catholic Christian involves far more than this sampling of documents. But they can provide the tools for (in the words of Henry Adams) overcoming the “problem of running order through chaos, direction through space, discipline through freedom, [and] unity through multiplicity,” the task of a true education. DR. KENNETH CRAYCRAFT

is an attorney and the James J. Gardner Family Chair of Moral Theology at Mount St. Mary’s Seminary & School of Theology. He holds a Ph.D. in moral theology from Boston College, and a J.D. from Duke University School of Law.

A C L OS E R L OOK / JAN U A R Y 2021 | 43

Written by Gail Finke Illustrated by Emma Cassani

Our Lord Christ the King Church, founded in 1926 in Cincinnati’s Mt. Lookout neighborhood, was the first parish named for Our Lord under the title “King.” Its school, Cardinal Pacelli, was named for a visitor who later became a pope.

OCT 31, 1937 Eugenio Cardinal Pacelli, then Vatican Secretary of State, visited the parish and blessed the cornerstone for a new school building MAR 2, 1939 Cardinal Pacelli elected pope and chooses name Pius XII MAY 22, 1957 Current church dedicated

The baptistry in the church’s distinctive tower (now used for storage) was designed to be separated from the main church by a covered walkway to symbolize that each person enters the Church through baptism.

1969 As part of reordering the liturgical year, Pope Paul VI moved the feast to the last Sunday before the beginning of Advent. 2008 Cardinal Pacelli School named a National Blue Ribbon School

The church’s tower topped with the crown, ball and cross symbolize Christ as King and Redeemer of the world. It includes a decorative portrait of Christ as King with a one hand blessing to all who pass. The crown and cross are made of stainless steel.

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DEC 5, 1926 First Mass at an office building on Linwood Road. Former WWI Army chaplain, Father Edward J. Quinn, celebrated with his Army Mass kit. Because there was no electricity, the room was lit with headlights from parked cars outside the windows. SEPT 1927 School opened, staffed by Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur

The interior features include extensive use of white stone, modified art deco-type figures; distinctive wood elements; a ceiling covered in two colors of gold leaf, custom light fixtures shaped like three crowns, and a Lady Chapel. The wall above the altar features a tall, Venetian gold and glass mosaic representation of Christ dressed as priest and king.

“The artistically unusual three-dimensional effects of the sanctuary mosaics…. [create] through the beauty of this ageless material, a ‘finale’ comparable to that of a great symphony, a perpetual prayer in devotion and dedication to ‘Our Lord Christ the King’ as a symbol of ‘The Eternal Unity in Truth, and Beauty in God.’” Stained-glass window supervisor Erhard Stoettner

1925 Pope Pius XI makes the Feast of Our Lord Christ the King on the final Sunday of October (the last major feast celebrating Christ in the liturgical year) to emphasize that Christ is our king here and now, not in the future.

2010 Ghana Health Care Project launched to provide insurance for families in Ghana

“I moved all around the country growing up, then I married a Cincinnati guy and did what my parents said – joined the closest parish to my house. My husband and I say all the time that we lucked out. We’ve loved it. It’s educated my kids and been a great spiritual home for us. Now we’re empty-nesters and we have grown children coming back to attend the parish – every Catholic mother’s dream!” Parishioner Kris Bayer

NOV 25, 2018 Cross and Crown Atrium connecting all buildings dedicated. Construction required extensive work including hollowing a hill and building a 47-ft retaining wall

“The celebration of the Eucharist has been the most important part of our parish life for 94 years. Since 1926, Catholics have gathered to pray with and for one another day after day, and this has continued through the pandemic.” Fr. Ed Smith, pastor

S E I Z E TH E M OM E N T

CRISP SHEETS & MISSIONARY DISCIPLESHIP When I was a kid, I used to hate making my bed. To me, it just didn’t make any sense. Why am I making my bed when I’m just going to mess it up again? Is someone coming over? If not, why bother? But, despite my protests, I had to make my bed every day. My mom forced me to. I’m sure she had her reasons, but, the only one I remember is, “Because I said so,” and that made me resist even more. DO AS I SAY

As an adult, I try to avoid using, “because I said so” as a reason for anything. I thought I was doing a good job of that, but recently a friend brought me to a surprising revelation: I use that argument in my work all the time. “You are obligated by your Baptism to proclaim the Gospel.” Ever heard that one before? I say it on a regular basis, and the Church does, too! For example: “Since the whole Church is by its nature missionary and the work of evangelization must be held as a fundamental duty of the people of God, all the Christian faithful, conscious of their responsibility, are to assume their part in missionary work.” (Can. 781) That sounds a lot like “Because I said so,” doesn’t it? It’s not that Canon Law is wrong. It’s important to acknowledge our Christian obligations. The problem arises when we only talk about evangelization as a fundamental duty, without mentioning the good to be obtained. There are, in fact, many goods to be had when we evangelize – both for the evangelizers and the ones being evangelized. WHAT’S IN IT FOR THEM

The stranger receives many goods when he hears and receives the Gospel: the remission of sins; the hope of resurrection and eternal life and a changed life devoted to the good and the salvation of others. Jesus promises these benefits to anyone who professes and lives by faith. Evangelization meets more natural and human needs as well.

When someone receives the Gospel, he receives friendship, community and membership in a family. He receives peace, joy and the reason for living. He receives love itself. These are all tremendous goods, and loving your neighbor means striving to give them to him. WHAT’S IN IT FOR ME?

When you evangelize, you step into your authentic identity. We tend to think of missionary discipleship as something you work up to. You start as a seeker or a lukewarm Christian, then you commit your life to Jesus. Then you become a missionary disciple, someone who is brings others into that same committed life. But, in Evangelii Gaudium, Pope Francis makes a startling statement: We are, all of us, already missionary disciples. “In virtue of their baptism, all the members of the People of God have become missionary disciples (cf. Mt 28:19). All the baptized, whatever their position in the Church or their level of instruction in the faith, are agents of evangelization …” (EG 120). According to St. Francis de Sales, the key to holiness is to be who you are, and do it well. This is what evangelization does for the evangelizer. The discipleship path is about leaning into a present reality. It’s about being who you are, and being that well. Of course, there’s also much more at stake. Evangelizing strengthens your faith. It grants you the assurance that you are following God’s will. It brings more hope, love and joy to your life, since these only increase as we give them away. Come to think of it, evangelization is as rewarding as a perfectly-made bed at the end of the day. Perhaps my mom was on to something, after all. NICHOLAS HARDESTY

is the associate director of Adult Evangelization and RCIA for the Center for the New Evangelization, an archdiocesan initiative that empowers parishes and schools to equip the laity for missionary discipleship. nhardesty@catholicaoc.org. S E IZ E T H E M OM E N T / JAN U A R Y 2021 | 45

Supplies: • 3 ft. piece of 3/4” PEX pipe • 31” piece of nylon string • (3) 18” 5/16” dowels • 3.5” of grey pipe insulation (for ¾” pipe) • Duct tape • Decorative tape (optional) Our children all have very different personalities. Some are quiet and shy; some are outgoing and goofy. But dress any of them in a costume and give them props, and suddenly, they take on the personality of that character – no matter who is watching! They become the fearless defender of New York City as Spiderman, or the highflying, dagger-wielding Peter Pan. It is incredible to witness the boldness and bravery that emerges. And yet, these heroes are nothing compared to St. Sebastian, whose courage, perseverance and strength we celebrate on Jan. 21. St. Sebastian was a young man who lived in the late 3rd Century as a guard in the Roman Praetorium. He was also a Christian and he knew that being both was a great risk. Sebastian quietly lived

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Steps to make the bow: 1. Using wire cutters, cut out a notch on each end of the PEX pipe so that the notches line up. 2. Tie a large knot in each end of the nylon string. 3. Slip one knot into the top of the PEX pipe notch. 4. Use a piece of duct tape to cover the end of the pipe and keep the knot in place. 5. Turn the pipe over so the second notch is up and bend the pipe so that you can place the second knot into the second notch on the pipe. 6. Cover the second end of the pipe with tape. You now have a bow. 7. (optional) Wrap decorative tape around the bow from top to bottom. 8. Place the 3.5” pipe insulation around the middle of the bow for your grip.

• Serrated knife • Wire cutters • 16 oz plastic cup or other sturdy plastic • 3 pencil cap erasers • Permanent marker or pen • Super glue Steps to make the arrows: 1. Place each of the pencil erasers on one end of each of the dowels. 2. Using the serrated knife, cut a notch in the end of each dowel. 3. With the marker, draw and cut out 3 veins for each arrow from the plastic cup. 4. Measure about an inch from the end of notched end of the arrow. 5. Super Glue the first vein perpendicular to the notch and the other two about a 1/3 of the way around. 6. Allow the glue to dry, then test how far your arrows can fly.

out his faith and converted many other soldiers through his witness. However, Emperor Diocletian discovered his beliefs and had him tied to a tree and used as a human archery target. Miraculously, despite some accounts that said he looked like a porcupine, Sebastian did not die. A Christian named Irene found him and nursed him back to health. Once he recovered, Sebastian went back to Diocletian and begged him to stop persecuting Christians. Diocletian had him beaten to death and thrown in the sewer, never to be found. However, Lucina, a Christian woman, discovered his body, and he was buried in the catacombs. He later became the patron of soldiers, athletes and archers, and is also a powerful intercessor against plagues. The arrows that struck St. Sebastian did not conquer him. He overcame their pain through his steadfast reliance on God and the providential help of fellow Christians. They are now the symbol of his powerful patronage and intercession. In this same way, let us use the difficult moments in our lives as a means to gain strength and courage. That is why we create bows and arrows as this month’s craft. May these tools remind us of the story of St. Sebastian, and give us the fearlessness and boldness to live out our faith, speak up for those who are persecuted and persevere throughout this new year with God’s grace.

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OUT AND ABOUT IN THE ARCHDIOCESE

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1) SCHOOL ROSARY IN VANDALIA

St. Christopher School celebrated the Feast of Our Lady of the Rosary on Oct. 7 with an all-school Rosary Rally. Eighth graders processed a statue of the Blessed Mother into an area where all students honored Mary with handmade paper flowers. Students, staff and Father John Tonkin prayed the Rosary together.

2) 100 YEARS OF ST. MARGARET MARY

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St. Margaret Mary Church celebrated its 100th anniversary with a special Mass on Oct. 11. Archbishop Dennis Schnurr celebrated the Mass and acknowledged the decades of faithful parishioners who contributed to the parish’s 100 years of success. Pastor Father Jerry Gardner concluded the celebration with his personal reflections and thanks.

3) MOSAIC CROSS AT IHM

Students at Immaculate Heart of Mary School, under the direction of teachers Lisa Storm and Deb Downie, created a cross mosaic. Parishioners donated old ceramic tiles and dishes for students to pattern together to create a wood-framed cross. Father Thomas Kreidler held a small blessing ceremony for the cross.

4) CELEBRATING CATHOLIC SCHOOLS

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Bishop Leibold School spent time with families celebrating their commitment to Catholic schools. Events included a virtual Donuts with Mom and Dad event, a student reflection project and a celebration of an All School Mass with our students.

5) DAYTON EUCHARISTIC PROCESSION Dayton Catholics held a Eucharistic Procession on Oct. 31 for the Vigil of All Saints. The one-mile procession began and ended at Emmanuel Church. During the procession, the faithful prayed for the sanctification of the community and nation. 4 8 | OU T & ABOUT

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www.wordgamesforcatholics.com

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DOWN 1 In some versions of The Lord’s Prayer, trespasses are called these 2 Utterly stupid person 3 Strangely 4 Facial feature 5 An orbiting solar observatory is named after this 17th century Catholic scientist, not the Star Trek character 6 Angry 7 Catholic poet whose works include “The Rape of the Lock” 8 Vane reading 9 Leb. neighbor 10 What you should not cast before swine 11 “Able was I ere I saw ___” 12 Heavy stick 13 HS seniors’ exams 21 Bride of Boaz 22 On sheltered side

25 Purloined fruit in Augustine’s Confessions 26 Curves 27 Center starter 28 The Immaculate ____ of Mary 29 South American Indian 30 OT book 31 Drunkards 32 Prayer ender 33 “…the Lord, the giver of ___.” 34 Verge 35 Pope St. ___ 38 Early movie mogul 39 Police call letters 41 Shelter for honeybees 42 Type of history 44 St. Lawrence O’Toole was archbishop of this city and is now its patron saint 45 Vast seas 47 Church instrument, sometimes 48 A deacon wears this over his left shoulder 49 Apostle who denied Christ 50 Dwelling for an old lady? 51 Green vegetable 52 Was indebted to 53 One of the theological virtues 54 Size of type 55 The Alphabet 57 Label 58 Brewery product

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the public power of the Church 56 Mil. hooky 57 Coniferous evergreen forest 59 Two together 60 Son of Leah 61 Highway to Fairbanks 62 Queen of the Nile, to her friends? 63 Genesis plot 64 Leguminous plants 65 Withered

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ACROSS 1 French-Canadian Catholic singing phenomenon 5 Biblical instruments 10 They’re above abs 14 Root of the taro 15 Satirical dialogue 16 Singer with Louis and Duke 17 Offers a price 18 Escapade 19 Adjoin 20 Put up with 22 Middle Easterners 23 Oinker’s abode 24 Script conclusion? 25 Altar linen 27 Airport letters 28 Arianism and Gnosticism 32 First letter of the Hebrew alphabet 35 “___ be with you” 36 Sgt., for one 37 Longish skirt 38 Tellers of tales 39 Bookkeeper (abbr.) 40 Alphabet string 41 Forty ___ 42 Gemstones 43 The least of our brothers 45 Globe 46 Alphabet string 47 Wood sorrel 48 Mineral spring 51 Priest-Saint who offered his life for another’s in a Nazi prison camp 54 Those who exercise

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THE FINAL WORD with Susan Gibbons

WHEN TIMES ARE HARDEST, THERE ARE LESSONS TO BE LEARNED Serving the Archdiocese of Cincinnati as superintendent of Catholic schools, I could never have imagined the effects a global pandemic would have on our nation, state and Catholic schools. On Mar. 12, when Governor Mike DeWine announced statewide school closures, I was stunned, taking a very deep breath and instantly wondering how our schools could continue to deliver a quality Catholic education to the 40,000 children in our care. The answer was simple: Our Catholic schools never stopped functioning. Our school leaders instantly planned for their unique schools, and even though the classroom took on many new variations, Catholic education continued. Our teachers sprang into action and decided how to creatively meet the needs of our students. Many schools utilized technology. Some schools used a combination of technology and written assignments, while others used worksheets teachers developed overnight with a drop-off and pick-up system. Schools even altered graduation ceremonies so students and their families could still celebrate. It was amazing, if not miraculous. In July, Governor DeWine issued the order to reopen schools in Ohio. Our Catholic school leaders anticipated reopening because they had worked all summer forming committees of experts to re-imagine their facilities and ensure the safety of all. Schools developed ways to communicate, following health and safety guidelines in conjunction and in partnership with local health departments. Even athletics and extra-curricular activities changed so they could begin and continue. Our Catholic schools experienced few cases of the virus among students. Staff members adjusted to students both in and out of the classrooms by thinking creatively so all students could learn during these extraordinary times. Miraculously, as many schools closed because of illness and exposure, few of our Catholic schools did. We are deep into winter and now have the added variable of flu season on top of COVID-19. As in all things, when times 5 0 | TH E F INAL WORD

are hardest, there are lessons to be learned. Our Catholic schools have persevered and our children have, in fact, adjusted beautifully, wearing masks and socially distancing as if this were always the routine, demonstrating the resilience of children. Parents and children have partnered more closely with our Catholic schools because, in order to remain open, everyone must work together. Our teachers and staff members have worked long hours, and their dedication to the mission of our schools is an outstanding example for all of us. Catholic school leaders have dedicated themselves to pivot on a moment’s notice if the pandemic takes yet another twist or turn. More than anything, we all learned that our Catholic faith makes all things possible. In the entrance to most of our Catholic schools is a sign that says: Be it known to all who enter here that CHRIST is the reason for this school. He is the unseen but ever-present teacher in its classes. He is the model of its faculty and the inspiration of its students. Maybe, I just needed a wake-up call to appreciate everything that was always right in front of me. I’ve taken so much for granted. A “thank you” will never be enough to express my appreciation and awe of the many people who did the heavy lifting of teaching our children when it was, even theoretically, all but impossible. Thank you to all who make Catholic education possible, and happy Catholic Schools Week! SUSAN GIBBONS is the superintendent of Catholic schools for the Archdiocese of Cincinnati. She began her career as a teacher at Archbishop Alter High School, then spent 30 years at Seton High Schoo,l where she served as a teacher, department chair, associate principal and principal. She attended the College of Mt. St. Joseph and then Xavier University, where she earned her B.A. in mathematics and M.Ed. in secondary education. Susan enjoys music and volunteering to assist the elderly at a local nursing home.

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THE CATHOLIC EDUCATION FOUNDATION for the Archdiocese of Cincinnati is once again providing needs-based tuition assistance to elementary school students for the 2020-2021 school year. Applications will be accepted through February 8, 2021. For more information and to apply, please visit catholicbestchoice.org.

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