The Catholic Telegraph Magazine June 2020

MAGAZINE

189th year | issue 7

bringing faith into the home

june 2020 | radiate christ | 1

The ministry of the Catholic cemetery is a continuation of the ministry, which began at your parish with baptism into the Catholic community and continued with reception of the sacraments and life among the faithful. The culmination of this life of faith is realized with the Rite of Committal in the Catholic Cemetery. Gate of Heaven Catholic Cemetery attends to your needs before, during, and after a loss. We participate in the corporal and spiritual works of mercy of burying the dead and comforting those who are mourning.

Give the gift of peace of mind to your family. Preplanning is a wise decision that shows you care and emphasizes the importance of your faith to your family and friends. Pre-Planning

• Ease the financial burdens for loved ones • Thoughtfully make a difficult time less stressful • Consider all options without the urgency and emotions • Assure that your wishes are secured • Avoid inflation by locking in today’s cost

Speak with a Cemetery Sales Advisor today with no obligation. Call, stop by, or visit us online.

2 |

EDITOR’S NOTE JESSICA RINAUDO

PUBLISHER

PUBLISHER Archbishop Dennis Schnurr Archbishop Dennis M. Schnurr

Welcome to our inaugural issue of The Catholic Telegraph magazine. I am excited to bring you inspiring Catholic resources, news and information in this beautiful new format. This magazine is the result of a year’s worth of research and planning – from cultivating a group of writers and finding the right printing partner, to intentionally choosing inspiring and practical content and listening to feedback from our readers. We explored design options, sought outside feedback and worked tirelessly to ensure that the CT’s next big step beautifully proclaims the radiant light of Christ. Reflecting on Archbishop Dennis Schnurr’s pastoral letter, published in this issue, I pondered how we, as an editorial team, could internalize and share his message. In response, I asked our writers to consider how radiating Christ plays out in all aspects of our faith lives and the lives of those whose stories we share. They embraced this directive, and produced beautiful reflections and stories that glow with the beauty of our Catholic faith. I can’t wait for you to read them! Thank you to everyone who has had a hand in bringing this magazine to life. My gratitude to Mike Schafer who initiated the idea of the magazine, and helped bring the right people to the table to make it happen. Thank you also to Emma Cassani, The Catholic Telegraph’s graphic designer, who worked tirelessly with me on the look of our new magazine. And thank you to Archbishop Schnurr, for being willing to take a chance on modernizing a 189-year-old newspaper. There are many others who deserve my gratitude, most especially the hardworking and dedicated CT team. Thank you all for your innovation and support. The Catholic Telegraph’s goal is to share the goodness, beauty and truth of the Catholic faith in western and southwestern Ohio – from scripture and tradition to the beautiful faith-filled people who radiate Christ in their daily lives. We hope you enjoy this issue, that it inspires your faith life and leaves you ready for the next edition.

EDITOR

EDITOR Jessica Rinaudo Jessica Rinaudo

DIGITAL ENGAGEMENT

GRAPHIC DESIGN Dominick Albano Emma Cassani

GRAPHIC DESIGN

MEDIA SALES Emma Cassani Deacon Graham Galloway

NEW MEDIA EDITOR

DIGITAL ENGAGEMENT Greg Hartman Dominick Albano

MEDIA SALES

NEW MEDIA EDITOR Dcn. Graham Galloway Greg Hartman

BOOKKEEPING

BOOKKEEPING Karen Cromer Karen Cromer

www.TheCatholicTelegraph.com THE CATHOLIC TELEGRAPH 100 East OH 45202 189th YearEighth No. 7St.,•Cincinnati, June 2020

513-421-3131 x.2213 FAX 513-381-2242 E-mail: cteditorial@catholiccincinnati.org www.TheCatholicTelegraph.com ctadvertising@catholiccincinnati.org 100 East Eighth St., Cincinnati, OH 45202 The Catholic Telegraph (USPS 094-520) ISSN 513-263-6633 FAX 513-381-2242 10736689 is published monthly by the E-mail: cteditorial@catholiccincinnati.org Archdiocese of Cincinnati, ctadvertising@catholiccincinnati.org 100 E 8th St., Cincinnati OH 45202. Periodicals postage paid at Cincinnati and at additional The Catholic Telegraph (USPS 094-520) ISSN mailing office. 10736689 is published monthly by the Archdiocese of Cincinnati POSTMASTER: Send address changes to 100The E 8th St., Cincinnati OH100 45202 Catholic Telegraph, E. 8th Street, Periodicals postage paid at Cincinnati and at Cincinnati, Ohio 45202. additional mailing office. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Catholic Telegraph, 100 E. 8th Street, Cincinnati, Ohio 45202.

| 3

contents features

news

19 RADIATE CHRIST PASTORAL LETTER

27 HELPING PARENTS THRIVE

5 SEEK THE LORD

JOHN STEGEMAN

ARCHBISHOP DENNIS SCHNURR

ARCHBISHOP DENNIS SCHNURR

Pregnancy Center East supports life from pregnancy through birth and beyond.

Our mission as Christian disciples

MIKE LEHNER

28 QUARANTINED AT SEA

Catholic Social Services of the Miami Valley forges relationships to feed those most in need.

EILEEN CONNELLY, OSU

What was the Church’s response to past pandemics?

16 THE SECRET TO SUCCESS

30 HOPE IN THE TIME OF COVID-19

Why it’s essential to pray as a couple

REBECCA SONTAG

9 A CLOSER LOOK

New Catholic Charities COO leads organization of support amidst virus difficulties.

DR. KEN CRAYCRAFT

14 CREATING PARTNERSHIPS TO SERVE

MICHELLE DUSHENSKY

Why St. Cecilia Parish attracts young adults and families. 34 IN PROFILE JOHN STEGEMAN

Glenmary Brother David Henley 36 THE LAND OF CROSSTIPPED CHURCHES SUSIE BERGMAN

Series on the history of the northern communities of the archdiocese.

Father Rob Waller ministers amid coronavirus fears.

32 40 YEARS OF INNER-CITY SCHOOL SUCCESS JOE BRIDE

4 | CO N TE NTS

8 CATHOLIC AT HOME KATIE SCIBA

Say hello in there, hello 10 SEIZE THE MOMENT NICHOLAS HARDESTY

Who are you, really?

35 CROSS THE BRIDGE FOR LIFE

12 BEING PRO-LIFE

BOB WURZELBACHER

Dignity of humanity behind bars

MARK DANIS

Jordan and Emily Adams with their family at St. Cecilia Church in Cincinnati.

FATHER DAVID ENDRES

11 SHINE ON

38 FORGING CONNECTION

PHOTO BY: CORYNNE STARESINIC

7 QUESTION OF FAITH

CISE program continues to grow and help children succeed through its 40 year history.

In lieu of this year’s event, sponsors donate to local pro-life efforts.

ON THE COVER

columns

Members of lay communities and new permanent deacon class refuse to let coronavirus disrupt time together. 40 OUT & ABOUT IN THE ARCHDIOCESE

DOMINICK ALBANO

Summer in the COVID-19 world

BOB WURZELBACHER

13 DID YOU KNOW? GAIL FINKE & EMMA CASSANI

St. Rose of Lima Church 39 KIDS’ CORNER The Sacred Heart of Jesus 42 THE FINAL WORD CORYNNE STARESINIC

Catholic Woman website founder reflects on Catholic conversion

SEEK THE LORD ARCHBISHOP DENNIS M. SCHNURR

Welcome to the inaugural edition of The Catholic Telegraph magazine! I am delighted to introduce this old friend in an attractive new format. In the 189 years since Bishop Edward Fenwick founded this publication as the voice of the local Church, it has taken many forms – weekly, bi-weekly and monthly; broadsheet and tabloid; newspaper and now magazine. After months of planning and refining, the CT team has produced an exciting new periodical that beautifully fulfills its mission to inform, to educate, and especially to evangelize.

bicentennial pastoral letter, “Radiate Christ,” in which I invite you to rediscover the joy of knowing Christ deeply and following Him, thereby becoming a witness to the world. I encourage you to prayerfully read this letter and engage with its contents, including 12 questions to help you reflect on your relationship with the Lord. It is also my hope that parish and school staffs, parish councils and committees, prayer groups, families and others across the archdiocese will reflect upon and discuss this document together over the coming weeks and months.

This change comes at an important moment in the history of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati. Next year we celebrate the two centuries of faith since the diocese was established on June 19, 1821. Our bicentennial as a local Church affords us an opportunity to look back with gratitude to God and to those who built the parishes, schools, religious communities, fraternal organizations and charitable institutions which have served so long and so well, and to those who have generously supported them. The Catholic Telegraph will feature some of these instrumental entities and individuals in its pages over the next 12 months.

Christ promises us peace, joy and the fullness of life, but not necessarily an easy or pain-free life. The COVID-19 pandemic and the unprecedented extraordinary steps that have been necessary to fight it have made this spring difficult for everyone. Most especially, my heart goes out to those of you directly touched by the illness and those who have suffered loss of vital employment. You remain in my prayers. For Catholics it has been particularly painful to be deprived of the Eucharist – especially at Easter, the “feast of feasts.” As the weeks went on, many of us prayed along with King David, “How long, Lord?” (Ps 13:1). Even now we are still affected; we are still hurting. However, amidst all of this, we know that God loves us and has not abandoned us.

It is equally critical that we reflect anew on our mission as Christian disciples to radiate Christ. That image of reflecting the light of Christ to others has been used by several recent popes. Pope Benedict XVI, for example, said in a weekly audience, “The Church is not light but receives the light of Christ, receives it to be illuminated by it and to radiate it in its full splendor.” And the Church is all of us. This issue of The Catholic Telegraph includes a

St. Augustine of Hippo, a bishop in Roman Africa during the fall of the Roman Empire, wrote: “Bad times, hard times, this is what people keep saying; but let us live well and the times shall be good. We are the times: such as we are, such are the times.” To radiate Christ to others is to live well and to change the world. Please join me in the year ahead in reflecting on how God calls each of us to do that.

S E E K T HE LO R D | 5

BUSCA AL SEÑOR ARZ OBISPO DENNIS M. SCHNURR

¡Bienvenido a la edición inaugural de la revista The Catholic Telegraph! Estoy encantado de presentar a este viejo amigo en un nuevo formato atractivo. En los 189 años desde que el Obispo Edward Fenwick fundó esta publicación como la voz de la Iglesia local, ha tomado muchas formas – semanal, quincenal y mensual; hoja ancha y tabloide; periódico y ahora revista. Después de meses de planificación y refinamiento, el equipo de CT ha producido una nueva publicación emocionante que cumple con su misión de informar, educar y especialmente evangelizar. Este cambio llega en un momento importante en la historia de la Arquidiócesis de Cincinnati. El próximo año celebramos los dos siglos de fe desde que se estableció la diócesis el 19 de Junio de 1821. Nuestro bicentenario como Iglesia local nos brinda la oportunidad de mirar hacia atrás con gratitud a Dios y a quienes construyeron las parroquias, escuelas, comunidades religiosas, organizaciones fraternales e instituciones de caridad que han servido tanto y tan bien, y a quienes las han apoyado generosamente. The Catholic Telegraph presentará algunas de estas entidades e individuos instrumentales en sus páginas durante los próximos 12 meses. Es igualmente crítico que reflexionemos nuevamente sobre nuestra misión como discípulos Cristianos de irradiar a Cristo. La imagen de reflejar la luz de Cristo a otros ha sido utilizada por varios papas recientes. El Papa Benedicto XVI, por ejemplo, dijo en una audiencia semanal: “La Iglesia no es luz, sino que recibe la luz de Cristo, la recibe para iluminarla e irradiarla en todo su esplendor”. Y la Iglesia somos todos nosotros. Este número de The Catholic Telegraph incluye una carta pastoral bicentenaria, “Irradiar a Cristo”, en

6 |

la que los invito a redescubrir la alegría de conocer a Cristo profundamente y seguirlo, convirtiéndose en un testigo del mundo. Les animo a que lean esta carta en oración y se comprometan con su contenido, incluidas están 12 preguntas para ayudarles a reflexionar sobre su relación con el Señor. También espero que el personal de las parroquias y las escuelas, los consejos parroquiales y comités, los grupos de oración, las familias y otros en toda la arquidiócesis reflexionen y discutan este documento juntos durante las próximas semanas y meses. Cristo nos promete paz, alegría y plenitud de vida, pero no necesariamente una vida fácil o sin dolor. La pandemia de COVID-19 y los pasos extraordinarios sin precedentes que eran necesarios para combatirla han hecho que esta primavera sea difícil para todos. Mi corazón está más especialmente, con aquellos de ustedes directamente afectados por la enfermedad y aquellos que han sufrido la pérdida de un empleo vital. Ustedes permanecen en mis oraciones. Para los Católicos ha sido particularmente doloroso ser privado de la Eucaristía, especialmente en Pascua, la “fiesta de las fiestas”. A medida que pasaron las semanas, muchos de nosotros oramos junto con el Rey David, “¿Hasta cuándo, Señor?” (Salmo 13:1). Incluso ahora seguimos afectados; todavía duele. Sin embargo, en medio de todo esto, sabemos que Dios nos ama y no nos ha abandonado. San Agustín de Hipona, un obispo en África Romana durante la caída del Imperio Romano, escribió: “Malos tiempos, tiempos difíciles, esto es lo que la gente sigue diciendo; pero vivamos bien y los tiempos serán buenos. Nosotros somos los tiempos: tal como somos, tales son los tiempos.” Irradiar a Cristo a los demás es vivir bien y cambiar el mundo. Únase a mí en el año que viene para reflexionar sobre cómo Dios nos llama a cada uno de nosotros a hacer eso.

QUE S TI O N O F F AI TH

HOW DID THE CHURCH RESPOND TO PAST PANDEMICS? The Church, like humankind in general, has faced challenges posed by disease. And where there has been suffering, Christians have responded, seeking to overcome fear and self-interest to offer spiritual, physical and material support.

over them, many ill persons recovered. Though he did not die of the plague, he became the patron saint of plague sufferers; his saintly intercession was credited with turning back an epidemic in Germany in 1414.

COMMITMENT TO CHARITY

Outbreaks of disease frequently elicited Christian heroism. In the late 16th Century, St. Aloysius Gonzaga, a young Jesuit, visited the victims of the plague at a Roman hospital, continuing to go to the hospital even after his superiors, out of concern for his health, cautioned against it. He contracted the illness and died at age 23. The life of St. Aloysius, known today as the patron of students and caregivers, continues to inspire.

Based on Jesus’ words and example, the first Christians shared their resources to care for the least among them, including widows, orphans and the poor. But they reached beyond their members, developing the most extensive network of charity that the world has ever known. Concern for others’ needs grew to include care for their health. Sickness was not well understood and often considered a punishment for sin, but Christians destigmatized sickness as responsibility for the sick and it became recognized as a religious duty. By the Fourth Century, Christian bishops took the lead, founding hospitals and hospices. Basil of Caesarea built a charitable complex (including a hospital) that was so vast that it was nicknamed “the new city.” Some who assisted the bishops formed communities dedicated to charitable works, developing religious orders to nurse the sick, pray with them and assure those who died received a proper burial.

THE COMMON GOOD

As modern medicine advanced in the 19th Century, the Church continued to lead, extending healthcare to many underserved communities. Women’s religious communities established and staffed hospitals and clinics, and, during time of pandemic, thousands of additional sisters volunteered to aid the sick, forming a veritable army of caregivers. With a greater understanding of how to slow the spread of disease, the Church has cooperated with governments that have emphasized canceling events, including religious services. During the 1918 influenza pandemic, numerous U.S. cities forbade large gatherings. Though Mass could not be celebrated publicly, Catholics were encouraged to amplify their prayers and devotions at home as the Church assisted in protecting those in society most vulnerable to illness.

The Christian network of care became more critical during times of pervasive illness. The so-called Plague of Cyprian (named for the bishop who most fully described it and sought to aid its victims) ravished the Roman Empire in the mid-Third Century. While non-Christians fled from their sick friends and family, Christians remained to care for them. Impressed by their witness, many non-Christians who survived the outbreak converted.

The Church’s response to disease remains motivated by the same concerns: aiding the sick and suffering and serving the common good. Through spiritual assistance and physical care, we, as Catholics, seek to help those impacted by the most recent pandemic, continuing a long tradition dating back to Christianity’s earliest years.

SANCTITY OUT OF SUFFERING

At times, the magnitude of disease could be overwhelming. During the Black Death in the mid-1300s, at least one-third of Europe fell victim, including many priests and religious who cared for the ill or provided them with the last sacraments. St. Roch, who is frequently invoked against illness, became sick after tending to plague victims. He recovered and continued his ministry. According to some accounts, after making the sign of the cross

Saint Aloysius Gonzaga visited victims of the plague.

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 O F FA I T H | 7

C AT H O L I C AT H O M E

HOW TO PRAY AS A COUPLE AND WHY IT’S ESSENTIAL My friend was a new blushing bride when she suggested to her husband that they start praying together. Daunted by the idea and clueless as to how to go about it, her husband nervously declined, saying that he needed to work on his one-on-one relationship with God before he worked on his relationship with God, his wife and him. Though he, like the rest of us, certainly needed to be attentive to how he related to Christ, what he didn’t realize was that prayer in marriage is paramount to one’s personal holiness as well as the sanctity found within the sacrament itself. Because I believe in transparency here at “Catholic at Home,” I’ll fully confess that the bride and groom mentioned are my husband and me; and further, I’ll happily report that our anniversary is this month and that, in contrast to our newlywed days, we’ve learned how to pray together in a fruitful and vulnerable way that’s opened our hearts to God’s grace and helped us move mountains. But honestly, none of this is relevant unless we can wrap around minds around why praying as a couple is absolutely crucial to marriage. BACK TO THE BEGINNING

So I’ll go back to my wedding – you go back to yours: Beaming with bliss, you and your beloved just made vows to each other, and, if you look closely, your relationship now resembles the Most Holy Trinity. Just as the love between the Father and the Son begets the Holy Spirit, so the two of you will love each other in a way that is life-giving. From husband and wife comes a family and a contribution to the Church entirely your own. You’re each made in the image and likeness of God, AND, united in sacramental matrimony, together, you’re a new creation in Christ. It’s miraculous and supernatural. Since your relationship now bears a striking resemblance to God, it’s your job to imitate Him to the best of your ability; to do an impression of Him together. 8 | CATH OLIC A T HOME

Are you following? Now, have you ever tried to do an impression of someone you hardly know? It doesn’t go over well. Why? Because, in order to offer a good imitation of someone, you have to be in frequent, intimate contact with him/her. As married couples, we have to be in touch with the Lord together in order to do a good impression of Him for each other and for those in our lives. This means we have to speak with Him and to Him together. HOW TO START?

But sometimes, not everyone is on board with praying as a couple. It’s not the most comfortable of ideas if you’re unfamiliar with it, and many of us grew up without seeing joint prayer in action. Regardless of each spouse’s ease, the very first step is a simple invitation. Asking, “Will you pray with me?” at the beginning of the day (or any time) demonstrates a desire for communion among the two of you and God. One of the most frequent questions I hear is “What if my spouse doesn’t want to?” and to that I say: Keep inviting charitably. Don’t force, just ask. Whatever the answer, proceed in prayer either as a couple or on your own. Your words don’t have to be elaborate or long, just honest. A simple, “Lord, help us to see each other as you see us,” or “Give us the grace to serve each other,” covers plenty of ground with few words. Next month, I’ll share some powerful forms of couple prayer that range from “short-n-sweet” to vulnerable and deep. In the meantime, inviting our spouses to pray is one of the best ways to express our love and affection; it demonstrates hope and love for their souls as well as confidence in the one Whose image we bear together. 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.

A CL O S E R L O O K

SAY HELLO IN THERE, HELLO Social distancing in my family, with six children at home, has been less about loneliness and more about trying to find a place in the house to be alone. While, of course, there are challenges, my days of “isolation” have been filled with all sorts of interactions (and distractions) with my wife and children. We feel a little claustrophobic at times, but no one feels lonely. Even though we have begun to relax some social distancing restrictions, the pandemic has presented profound challenges for people who live alone. Recently I interacted with two such people. They are both strong, intelligent, independent professionals, who are used to living alone in normal times. “Normal,” of course, means workdays, dining out, going to the gym and the many other interactions in a typical day or week. Both of them described, in remarkably similar terms, how very difficult social distancing has become for them. Neither is given to self-pity, but both made me realize how qualitatively different these times are for those who live alone. CULTIVATING MORAL IMAGINATION

I often tell my students that the Catholic moral life is not primarily about keeping lists of rules, or obeying commands. Rather, it is about cultivating the virtues that help us to both order our lives properly toward love of God and one another. Virtuous people will obey commands; but obeying commands does not necessarily mean that the person is virtuous. We might make the right moral choice, for example, but be motivated by fear or greed, or some other base incentive. Or our good moral actions might be nothing more than luck or ignorance. In these cases, we cannot properly say that we have acted “morally” even if, incidentally, we have chosen a moral good. This is why training in virtue is such an important part of the moral life. In other words, Christian moral theology is about learning to expand and exercise our moral imaginations in such a way that we have the moral creativity to address challenges and issues that we cannot anticipate, and never expect to encounter. Learning new forms of hospitality and solidarity in this time of pandemic can be such an exercise. This virus has come as a form of challenge to us, not simply to observe directives, but rather to turn our attention to issues and problems that none of us ever could have envisioned – issues that resist categorization as

demands or obligations, but nonetheless call us to moral responses. Among them is the challenge of supporting those who live alone, or who otherwise suffer isolation and loneliness. In his extraordinary Urbi et Orbi (To the City and the World ) address on March 27, Pope Francis challenged us to cultivate and exercise our moral imaginations so that we can respond properly to the loneliness and isolation around us. “The Lord asks us and, in the midst of our tempest, invites us to reawaken and put into practice that solidarity and hope capable of giving strength, support and meaning to these hours when everything seems to be floundering. The Lord awakens so as to reawaken and revive our Easter faith. . . . The Lord asks us from His cross to rediscover the life that awaits us, to look towards those who look to us, to strengthen, recognize and foster the grace that lives within us.” By doing this, by “embracing His cross,” the Holy Father continues, we may “find the courage to create spaces where everyone can recognize that they are called, and to allow new forms of hospitality, fraternity and solidarity.” The friends I described are strong, capable people; yet they are feeling a depth of loneliness that, I think, surprises them both. Think even more of others living alone who are not as sufficient, who are psychologically or emotionally vulnerable. If you know such people, think about taking some time to reach out to them by text, phone or FaceTime. Sometimes we just need a little company to experience “new forms of hospitality, fraternity and solidarity.” On April 7, 2020, the great singer/songwriter John Prine passed away from COVID-19 infection. More than 40 years ago, in his lovely, sad song, “Hello In There,” Prine wrote about an aged couple, whose children are either dead or moved far away. What he said about these characters applies to all people who are alone in this time of loneliness and isolation: “So if you’re walking down the street sometime/And spot some hollow, ancient eyes/ Please don’t just pass ’em by and stare/As if you didn’t care, say, ‘Hello in there, hello.’” 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 OSE R LO O K | 9

SEIZE TH E M O M E N T

WHO ARE YOU, REALLY? Before I started working for the Church, I was a counselor. Sometimes I would ask my clients to complete an “I am” statement: “I am ____.” It’s amazing how varied the answers can be: I am worthless. I am hopeless. I am unlovable. I am a failure. Each one is a lie that must be overcome before our thoughts can lead to right action, before we can radiate Christ.

way desirable.” 3. Because God loves you, and as the Catechism says, “Only the good can be loved.” (CCC 1766) 4. Because you are ordered towards goodness. Goodness is your beginning and your end. 5. Because you are made in the image and likeness of God. You were made to resemble God, and He is good.

Christians often say, “I am a sinner.” I think we say it out of a false sense of humility, or to make ourselves feel better about our sins. But, how does God complete our “I am” statements? Let’s see what Scripture says.

Note that when I say, “You are good,” I’m not referring to the quality of your actions. Instead, I’m making an identity statement. I’m talking about who you are at the core of your being. Sin darkens your intellect, weakens your will, and strains your relationships. But, it is not who you are.

In Genesis, Chapter 1, as God creates, He also evaluates His creation. He creates light and says it is good. He creates land, sea, sky and their inhabitants and says they are good. But, when God creates man and woman, He makes a new declaration: “It is very good.” (vs. 31)

Your actions don’t define you. How could they? Does breathing under water make you a fish? Does flapping your arms make you a bird? Do a million pious actions make you a saint? No. Similarly, sinning does not make “sinner” who you are.

Now, we might object and say that all creation lost its goodness once Adam and Eve committed the original sin. But then how do we explain God’s good assessment of creation well after the Fall? For example:

Yes, you have the ability to sin, but sinning is still just as unnatural to you as is breathing under water. You weren’t made for sinning, you were made for communion with God!

“Yet thou hast made him little less than God, and dost crown him with glory and honor” (Psalms 8:5).

BE WHO YOU ARE

WHAT DOES GOD SAY?

“We are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works” (Ephesians 2:10). And the clincher: “For everything created by God is good” (1 Timothy 4:4). WHY YOU ARE GOOD

The fact is, man is good. Scripture clearly says so. But, how can this be? How can we be good if we sin so much? I’ve spent a lot of time reading and praying about this. While it hasn’t been easy, it has been fruitful, and I think I’ve found a solution. Here are least five reasons why you are good: 1. Because God created you, and He is good. Nothing evil comes from perfect goodness. 2. Because God desires you, and as Aquinas says, “The essence of goodness consists in this, that it is in some 1 0 | SEIZ E THE MOME NT

If you’re still struggling with this, ask yourself: Who would want me identifying with my sinfulness? Who would want me always thinking, “I am a thief. I am an adulterer. I am a glutton”? Satan would. Now, ask Jesus: Who do you say that I am? I know, we sin every day. But, if we can identify with our “very goodness,” then sin will no longer define us or have the final say. The next time we are tempted to sin, we can say, “I am not made for this!” Then we can live in the truth of who we are. And the truth will set us free. NICHOLAS HARDES TY

creates content and leads workshops for Contagiously Catholic, an archdiocesan initiative that seeks to empower parishes and schools to equip the laity for evangelization. nhardesty@catholiccincinnati.org

SHINE ON

SHINING LIGHT ON SUMMER IN THE COVID-19 WORLD $1,381 was withdrawn from my checking account on May 15. The payment was the final installment for a June baseball tournament, and the account was for the baseball team that I coach and manage. We are going to Disney World! Six days. Eleven kids. Baseball, theme parks and unforgettable memories. Strike that. We were going to Disney World. The Magic Kingdom park alone attracts more than 50,000 guests every day. In the age of social distancing, that’s just not going to work. Our baseball tournament is toast. Grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins were all going too. It was supposed to be an epic family vacation. And now those plans are gone and we have to figure out what summer vacation will look like in the COVID-19 world we are all living in. It’s tempting to be frustrated or even resentful, but God calls us to be a people of hope. Romans 8:28 promises us, “We know that all things work for good for those who love God.” Here are some things to consider if you want to figure out how to have a good summer despite our challenging times. STAYCATIONS AREN’T A BAD OPTION.

They might not have the glitz or glamour, but I’m telling you: Staycations are great. The first time my family did a staycation was for one simple reason: We were broke. Cash-strapped with a couple of little ones in tow, we decided to forego anything fancy and just take a week off. It was amazing. Our week was filled with new experiences, unexplored local sites, lots of eating out, AND we still got to sleep in our own bed. There really is only one problem with a staycation: You won’t want it to end. Pro tip: Google “best things to do in Dayton/Cincinnati/etc.” You’ll find a bunch of great lists brimming with experiences that you’ve never tried before. And don’t be afraid to eat out more than you normally would. It’s still a vacation! Avoid dishes at all costs.

NOW IS THE TIME TO TRY NEW THINGS.

Remember all the activities that used to keep us busy? The sports, the camps, the pool… Who knows when, or if, life will get back to the way it was? If the world is new, and the experience is new, then there has never been a better time for you to try something new! What new activity could your family learn to do that COVID-19 can’t take away? Maybe it’s playing an instrument or learning to fish. Maybe it’s mastering chess or working on your car. Has much been taken? Sure. But all the busy-ness that was taken is also a great gift. You have a blank page. Don’t think about the things you can’t do, think about the things you can do. Pro tip: Keep it fun, not a chore. Brainstorm a list with your family and choose three activities to try. Give each a shot, but don’t be afraid to narrow it down to one or two new activities. IT MIGHT BE TIME TO INVEST IN THAT PLAYSET.

The average family spends around $2,000 on a summer vacation. If the summer vacation is now off the table, perhaps it’s time to splurge on something else for the family. Anything that keeps the kids out of the house and gives the family something fun to do together is a win. A vacation lasts a week, but a playground can last for years. Pro tip: Let the kids be a part of the purchasing process. It can be difficult sometimes to excite a teenager, but letting them help spend money usually works! Take some time to figure out the good God wants to do with your life this summer, and you’ll have taken St. Peter’s advice from 1 Peter 3:15, “Always be ready to give an explanation to anyone who asks you for a reason for your hope.”

DOMINICK ALBANO

is the director of Digital Engagement for The Catholic Telegraph, as well as an author and national speaker. He lives with his wife and their four young sons. dalbano@catholiccincinnati.org. SHI NE O N | 11

BE I N G P R O - LI F E

THE DIGNITY OF HUMANITY BEHIND BARS Lyle is Catholic and attends Mass each week. He is pursuing a Bachelor of Specialized Studies degree through Ohio University. Several magazines have published his writing, and he recently co-authored his first book. He is surrounded by several friends who have taught him the value of patience and mercy. The part about Lyle that might surprise you, however, is that he also spent the past 20 years of his life in prison on death row.

prison ministry program and Director Marty Arlinghaus helped change his life. He rediscovered his faith and the hope that he can still become the man God has always called him to be. Wilson Willard is the executive director of HELP Program Cincinnati, a program to assist former inmates reintegrate into society. It might be presumed that the primary challenge in finding a job after getting out of prison is convincing an employer to hire someone with a felony, but there are often greater challenges than that.

FINDING HUMANITY

Tessie Castillo is the author of Crimson Letters: Voices from Death Row. In 2014, she started a writing class for men on death row. After discovering how different the men were from the stereotype of what everyone presumes, she decided to write an op-ed in the local newspaper that showed the humanity of men on death row. After it was published, the prison barred her from continuing to teach her class. It seems the prison didn’t want people to see their humanity either. Castillo continued to correspond with the inmates, however, and they formed the basis of her book. She wanted to answer questions like: Who are they? Are their lives worth more than the worst thing they did? Does conversion happen in prison? The prison also banned the book. ASSISTANCE IN OUR ARCHDIOCESE

Steve is a former inmate who grew up with, what he called, a happy childhood in Napa, CA. Later in life, however, he picked up a drinking and drug habit that haunted him for most of his adulthood. A series of tragic circumstances continued to make getting off of drugs and alcohol increasingly difficult. One of the more devastating ones was that on the day he was supposed to bail his brother out of jail, Steve asked him to wait just one more day. That night, his brother committed suicide. He spiraled again into guilt and depression, which led him to drown his pain in more drugs and alcohol. When his mother died during his most recent stint in prison, he knew he needed to change. His experience with our archdiocesan Catholic 1 2 | B EIN G PRO- LIFE

The first one can be getting appropriate ID. The process is much stricter today than ever before, and if you don’t know where your birth certificate or Social Security cards are, replacing those can also be very difficult. Even if you are highly motivated to do what you need to do, you may spend several weeks – and quite a bit of money for someone without a job – waiting just to get proper identifications reissued.

BEING PRO-LIFE PODCASTS JUNE 2 Tessie Castillo Author of Crimson Letters JUNE 9 Lyle May, Current Death Row Inmate JUNE 16 Steve Brinkmoeller, Former Prison Inmate JUNE 23 Wilson Willard, Executive Director of HELP Program Cincinnati

Another problem is transportation. Willard mentioned a recent study that indicated 278,000 jobs in the Cincinnati area are inaccessible by bus. HELP assists in obtaining the identification people need to get a job, and provide them transportation to jobs that they can’t reach by bus. For those who demonstrate responsibility, they might help them get further training for a better job, as well. To hear Lyle, Tessie, Steve and Wilson share their stories, head to www.catholiccincinnati. org/being-pro-life. Let’s work together to create a world where all people experience the dignity they deserve. BOB WURZELB ACHER

is the director of the Office for Respect Life Ministries. He and his wife, Cindy, live in Sharonville with their two young daughters. bwurzelbacher@catholiccincinnati.org

By Ga

il

Fi

nk

e

s • I Cas llu a m stra ted by E m

ani

D ID YOU KNO W? | 13

BY MIKE LEHNER

CATHOLIC SOCIAL SERVICES OF THE MIAMI VALLEY

CREATING PARTNERSHIPS TO SERVE Inspired by the call of the Gospel, Catholic Social Services of the Miami Valley (CSSMV) has served the poor, the hungry, the elderly and the disadvantaged for almost 100 years. From Montgomery County to the northernmost reach of the archdiocese in Auglaize County, CSSMV has emerged as a leader in charitable work, well-positioned to respond to crises, both large and small. The COVID-19 pandemic may have impacted the way it does that work, but it has not changed the mission to serve. Case workers, counselors and other CSSMV staff are busier than ever, providing lifelines for clients by connecting through phone calls and video chat. Many of these individuals and families were struggling before the pandemic and are now facing lost wages, mounting bills and closed daycares. Fears about getting sick and having enough food and supplies are real concerns. FOOD PANTRY ADAPTS TO CIRCUMSTANCES

Located in northwest Dayton near the center of the city’s food desert, the CSSMV Food Pantry has seen a 30-percent spike in daily requests. To adhere to social distancing guidelines, CSSMV has moved from the choice food pantry model, where clients shop the pantry and pick their own groceries, to handing out pre-packed boxes of food. Volunteers and Ohio National Guard members arrive early to unload trucks from the Dayton food bank and other suppliers and pack the boxes with a healthy assortment of foods. Notably

absent are the usual group of retired folks who regularly volunteer at the pantry. Because of health concerns, volunteers are currently limited to those under the age of 50, and staff members from all parts of the agency are stepping up to fill the void. DAYTON STRONG

What is not absent is the generosity of a community that became known as “Dayton Strong” after a tumultuous year marked by devastating tornadoes and a mass shooting. At CSSMV, it could be called “Dayton Catholic Strong” as gifts from local parishes have helped stock the pantry shelves to overflowing. A group of young alumni and students from Chaminade Julienne High School have been a big part of the volunteer effort in the pantry, and the University of Dayton donated bread and chips left over after canceling the NCAA Tournament’s First Four events in early March. Another Catholic parishioner sewed face masks for the pantry staff and volunteers. With the usual suppliers of bread for the pantry cutting back on bakery production, Big Sky Bread Company owners and St. Albert the Great parishioners, Mari and Philip Gallenstein, have ramped up production to provide 100 loaves of bread daily. Upon hearing about that effort, an anonymous donor stepped up to pay for the bread for the pantry throughout the rest of April, a generous move that helped keep Big Sky Bread Company in production as well.

Chaminade Julienne students and young alumni have been very helpful in maintaining the CSSMV pantry. 1 4 | NEWS

“

Sharing supplies and strategies has made partnerships essential during the pandemic. Philip Gallenstein, along with his wife Mari, own Big Sky Bread Company, have been making 100 loaves of bread every day since the COVID-19 outbreak began.

SHARING SUPPLIES AND STRATEGIES

Another local company, Pepperidge Farm, has donated truckloads of its popular Goldfish Crackers. “I have never seen so many Goldfish crackers in my life,” said Mike Lehner, CSSMV marketing and development director. “Luckily, we have been partnering with other agencies to help each other and balance inventories. The House of Bread [community soup kitchen] gave us potatoes, and in exchange, we gave them chips and Goldfish crackers.” Sharing supplies and strategies has made partnerships essential during the pandemic, but working with others is something CSSMV has been doing well for many years. Its Refugee Resettlement Program depends on partnerships with local employers, schools and volunteer groups. Pre-birth counseling

through Mothers Empowered evolved from a partnership with Premier Health. Partnering with a task force of stakeholders throughout the region positioned CSSMV to create a long-term case management program for tornado relief. “As community needs continue to increase and change, our services reflect our sincere commitment to be responsive, no matter what the challenge,” said CSSMV CEO Laura Roesch. “Contributing to the greater good requires confidence as well as humility, boldness as well as patience, expertise as well as a culture of learning, and, always, the grace of God. One of the great blessings of Catholic Social Services is the timeliness of our mission.”

“It was not you that chose me, but I who chose you!” John 15:16 Has God chosen You for the Diocesan Priesthood?

VOCA

IONS

ARCHDIOCESE OF CINCINNATI

www.cincinnativocations.org T H E C AT H OL IC T E LE G R A PH | 15

Jordan and Emily Adams with their family at St. Cecilia Church in Cincinnati. Photos by Corynne Staresinic. 16 |

THE SECRET TO SUCCESS

ST. CECILIA PARISH ATTRACTS YOUNG ADULTS AND FAMILIES B Y M I C HELLE D USHEN SK Y

If you have ever been to St. Cecilia Parish in Oakley, the church’s beautiful exterior and interior were probably the first things that caught your eye. But if you have attended Mass at St. Cecilia within the past three and a half years, you most likely noticed another element of its appeal: the large number of young adults – married and single – and young families who fill the pews, sing in the choir, serve as lectors and Eucharistic ministers and are involved in RCIA. At a time when many young people are falling away from the Church, and parishes (both locally and across the country) are struggling to minister to young adults, what draws the 20- and 30-somethings who settle in Oakley and the surrounding neighborhoods to St. Cecilia? Really great liturgies.

coordinator, to lead the way in serving this growing and engaged demographic. Now, with more than 50-percent of parishioners under the age of 40, St. Cecilia’s main focus – and secret to its success – is ministering to its young adults and young families. “Anytime we make a decision as a pastoral leadership team, one of our criteria is, does this apply to our young adult community?” said Cody Egner, director of religious education. “Everything we offer should be going through that filter.”

What keeps them there? The relationships they build through the young adult ministry and the many opportunities they have to receive the sacraments and get involved in the life of the parish – and, of course, beautiful liturgies.

Bort, a young adult herself, started small, offering two monthly events for young adults. The first, Adoration/ MadTree, gave 20- and 30-year-olds the opportunity to come together on the third Wednesday of every month for praise, worship music and confession, followed by fellowship at MadTree Brewing. As this quickly grew, Bort added a second event, Mass & Brunch, on the first Sunday of every month, inviting young adults and families to the 10 a.m. Mass at St. Cecilia and then out for brunch.

It all started in 2017 when Father Jamie Weber, pastor of St. Cecilia, recognized an influx of young adults at the parish. Committed to meeting the needs of the community, the pastoral leadership team hired Sarah Rose Bort, St. Cecilia’s young adult ministry

Now, St. Cecilia’s young adult ministry – arguably the largest young adult ministry in the Archdiocese of Cincinnati – offers young adults a variety of events and groups to join throughout the year. In addition, the ministry has partnered with the Archdiocese of

FE A T U R E | 17

“

Currently, young adults are part of every ministry. In fact, they make up a majority of the choir and the liturgical ministers.

Cincinnati’s Young Adult Evangelization and Discipleship Office to host monthly young adult candlelight Masses. While getting young adults to attend events is one of the first steps in evangelization, Bort says her main focus is inspiring these college grads, young professionals and parents to get involved in the life of the parish. Currently, young adults are part of every ministry. In fact, they make up a majority of the choir and the liturgical ministers. Which brings us back to the liturgy. Having a great liturgy is another one of St. Cecilia’s focuses. Father Weber says good liturgies attract people. So, what makes a great liturgy?

“When I think liturgy at St. Cecilia, I think of reverence,” says Egner. “Kneeling during the Consecration, the bells, the smells, the music... it all comes down to reverence. [Our liturgies] are done well because of the reverence toward the Eucharist.” Bort says that young adults are seeking a beautiful encounter during the sacrament of the Eucharist. And St. Cecilia delivers. “I absolutely love the liturgy there,” says 30-year-old parishioner Jordan Adams. “They do a very good liturgy. It’s very beautiful. The choir is phenomenal. I truly love the liturgy.”

thecatholictelegraph.com/digital-subscriptions

• Companionship • Personal Care • Meals & Nutrition • Transportation

• Household Duties • Respite Care • Hospice Care Support Services

Get Connected. Get Inspired. Subscribe to The Catholic Telegraph's two new e-mail offerings: • The Daily Divina - meditations from the day's Scripture readings. • The Ember - weekly news and events in and around the Archdiocese of Cincinnati.

1 8 | FEATURE

A Pastoral Letter to the Faithful of the Archdiocese IN ANTICIPATION OF THE

200th Anniversary of the Establishment of the Diocese of Cincinnati Ar c

ti na

se of Cinc ioce in hd

1821 20

0 Ye

2021 a r s o f Fa

it h

My dear brothers and sisters in Christ, Radiate Christ. These two words summarize God the Father’s hope for humanity on this earth. The words contain both a reality and a mission: the reality of the person of Jesus Christ as the Savior of all people and the mission of each Christian to participate in the Son’s redemption of the world. R AD IAT E C H R IS T P AS T ORA L LE T T E R | 19

The occasion of the bicentennial celebration of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati affords us an opportunity to reflect on this reality and this mission as they exist in our local Church. As we begin our celebration of this great milestone, we forge ahead into a grace-filled period of reflection and examination to bring about a greater vitality and stronger, even more lifegiving Christianity. To the degree that we each strive to be converted to the Lord Jesus, we will be strengthened as an archdiocese made up of disciples who encounter, know and follow the Lord who has led us to this point. SEARCHING FOR MEANING IN A WORLD WOUNDED BY SIN

Our modern age presents us with easy access to goods and information. We know that it is nearly impossible to spend a day without searching the internet. We seek answers to curiosities; we figure out how to do things; we have access to more information about the goings-on in the world than ever before. Seemingly, anything we want is available at the click of a button. Searching and consuming become habitual, and yet we never find enough to be truly satisfied. Despite so much being available, it is all too apparent that we live in a world that is hurting. Something is always lacking. This world in which we live, which is at times beautiful and capable of stirring in us wonder of the divine, is also clearly not the world as God intended it to be. The symptoms of sin ripple across the surface of every time and place, and its effects run deeper, causing unrest in the souls of individuals and anxiety and even turmoil on a larger scale. Every human being is searching for meaning and fulfillment in this world wounded by sin. That fulfillment, that perfect satisfaction and happiness for which we were created, is only found in relationship with God. The Catechism of the Catholic Church reminds us, “The desire for God is written in the human heart, because man is created by God and for God; and God never ceases to draw man to himself. Only in God will he find the truth and happiness he never stops searching for� (CCC 27). 2 0 | RADIA TE CHRIST PA S TO R A L L ETTER

We seek answers to curiosities

God the Father has offered fulfillment to us through His Son, Jesus Christ. It is He who longs to satisfy our tireless searching. He alone has come that we might have life and life in abundance (John 10:10). This abundance of life is not the product of possessing things nor is it a lack of hardship or loss during the time we are given on this earth. No, the abundance of life that Jesus promises is not just a good life according to the measures of the world. True life, the fullness of life, is that which radiates the peace and joy which come from a relationship with Jesus Christ who alone can restore our worldly humanity to the divine perfection which God planned for it in the beginning.

Let us

RAD A E I T Only in heaven, united completely to God, do we hope to experience the perfection of that fullness of life. Even so, in this earthly life we can still enjoy a foretaste of that ultimate goodness for which we long. When we do that, when we accept God’s invitation to abide in Him and so possess His joy (John 15: 9-11), we become His witnesses to the world. This is my hope: that each of us, within our unique and personal circumstances and situations, becomes a more joyful witness of the goodness of a life lived in relationship with Jesus Christ. As Pope Saint Paul VI said, “Modern

man listens more willingly to witnesses than to teachers, and if he does listen to teachers, it is because they are witnesses” (Evangelii Nuntiandi, 41). This remains very, very true today. The world in which we live is not the world as God intended it to be. It is hurting; it needs hope. Let us more fully open ourselves to Jesus. Let us welcome Him into our lives so that He can work through our lives. Let us be witnesses. Let us radiate Christ.

R AD IAT E C H R IS T P AS T ORA L LE T T E R | 21

1821 FORWARD: THE GROWTH OF A BELIEVING COMMUNITY

When Pope Pius VII established the Diocese of Cincinnati in June of 1821, and appointed Father Edward Dominic Fenwick, OP, as its first bishop, the diocese not only spanned all the lands of Ohio and Michigan, but it also extended through much of the former Northwest Territory and beyond. As the faith continued to grow over the next 50 years, other dioceses were apportioned from the Diocese of Cincinnati, which took on its current boundaries in western and southwestern Ohio in 1868. Such development of the local Church would not have been possible without the spiritual growth of the believing community. The believing community developed and responded to the needs of the day through committed individuals who allowed Christ to transform their lives. These converted Christians formed the families, groups and larger communities that gave and continue to give dynamic life to the Church. WHERE DO WE EXPERIENCE GOD AND THE CHURCH?

The Church exists in the interplay of these various levels of experience. As individuals we strive to know and be transformed by Jesus Christ so we can follow Him back to union with the Father, but we cannot do this alone. We cannot return to the God who created us out of love without the help and support of other Christians. This is why God gives us the Church. Our individual faith is strengthened when it is shared, and we find the courage to make the sacrifices of fidelity when others guide and inspire us.

2 2 | RADIATE CHRIS T PA S TO R A L L ETTER

“The light of faith is an incarnate light radiating from the luminous life of Jesus.” Pope Francis, Lumen Fidei, 34 Our immediate experience of the Church is through the people closest to us – even if we do not always think of it this way. We first experience the Church through our families: our parents, grandparents, brothers, sisters and extended family. Secondarily, we experience the Church through our friends, neighbors, co-workers, teams and classmates. These are the people God has placed in our lives, and we in theirs, to build each other up. These are the people upon whom our joyful and faithful witness can have the most effect. Jesus told us, “Where two or three have met together in my name, I am there among them” (Matthew 18:20). How true that is! When the individual members of these smaller groups radiate Christ to each other, the group takes on its own divine radiance. These small groups can then transform the larger structures they are part of: our parishes, neighborhoods, schools and workplaces. When these larger communities radiate Christ, then the Church makes Christ present to the world.

LAYING THE FOUNDATIONS

As we look at how the Archdiocese of Cincinnati has developed over the past 200 years, we can see that the Church responded to various needs through its institutions. Very early on in our history, religious women and men took up residence in the area to begin the work of laying the foundations of a strong life of faith. As the faith of the people grew broader and deeper, parishes were established; schools, universities and hospitals were built. Faithful women and men created and participated in diocesan and regional programs of service to those in need. All of these things have borne much fruit for our sisters and brothers in the Church and for our neighbors of different faiths, as well. The Archdiocese of Cincinnati has been well-served through its parishes, religious communities, schools, fraternal organizations and charitable institutions.

His radiance. The interaction of all of these parts – individuals, families, groups and larger communities – is how the Church functions to make Christ present to the world. As a member of the Body of Christ, each of us shares in the mission of Jesus and His Church: to bring salvation to each and every person.

Look to Him and be radiant. Psalm 34:5

Today we are blessed with a well-established system of resources to serve the needs of our people and communities. We no longer have the need to strategically plan for extraordinary growth. Upkeep, renovation and renewal will always be necessary, but the main impetus of physically building church infrastructure is behind us. We are now in a time of rapid change, requiring us to be adaptable to modern needs while maintaining our commitment to Jesus Christ. This opens up a great possibility for us. I would even say that this charges us with a great responsibility, to shift our focus towards our families, our smaller faith groups and, even more importantly, to our individual relationships with Jesus Christ. Pope Francis has said, “The Lord wants to make use of us as living, free and creative beings who let His word enter our own hearts before then passing it on to others (Evangelii Gaudium, 151). To the degree that each of us individually lives in greater contact and dependence on Jesus Christ, all of our families, groups and larger communities will more perfectly reflect R AD IAT E C H R IS T P AS T ORA L LE T T E R | 23

CONSIDERING OUR CONTRIBUTION

Our celebration of the bicentennial of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati is a chance for each of us to reflect on the history of our local Church and to consider our own contribution to the future of the faith in western and southwestern Ohio. We are all part of the Lord’s plan for His Kingdom. We all have a role to play in the present and future of the Church, even as our parents and grandparents had a part to play in the Church’s past. None of us is superfluous, disposable or unimportant. God has given each of us something specific to contribute. It is only when we pause to reflect on and respond to the ways God invites us to grow closer to Him that we will become disciples who bring others to Christ through our joyful witness to Him. Our local Church will only be the instrument God intends it to be if each of us seeks the face of the Lord, is converted to Him, and allows Jesus to work through us – in short, if we each radiate Christ!

2 4 | RADIA TE CHRIST PA S TO R A L L ETTER

I invite you to reflect on some questions with me, knowing that Christ constantly offers the invitation to live in relationship with Him and eagerly hopes that we will respond:

Am I open to the encounter? Do I believe that Christ wants a relationship with me? Do I foster my relationship with Christ through prayer? Do I give space and time in my life for this encounter to take place? Does my relationship with Christ direct my decisions and actions? Are there periods of silence in my day so that I can draw closer to God? In moments of difficulty, do I remember that God is suffering with me and wants to support me? Do I believe that God has a unique plan for my life and that He wants to help me accomplish that? Am I eager to experience the goodness that Christ has in store for me? Is my life nourished and sustained by the sacraments?

Is the celebration and reception of the Eucharist the center of my spiritual life?

11

Is there something I am afraid of losing if I grow closer to Christ?

Will I allow Christ to transform me? Will I radiate Christ so that others can know His goodness and love?

R AD IAT E C H R IS T P AS T ORA L LE T T E R | 25

My brothers and sisters, Christ wants to do so much through us. Let us take advantage of the opportunity before us to renew our willingness to let Him. This letter serves many purposes. It is a petition that we each seek to know Jesus Christ. It is an invitation to discover the joy in following Him. It is a word of encouragement when the road of discipleship becomes difficult. It is a proclamation of the beauty of being a joyful witness by radiating Christ. As we celebrate together the good things God has done in our archdiocese, let us also pray together that He continues to bless us with His presence and His love, entrusting ourselves to the care of our Blessed Mother, praying:

Mary, Mother of the Church and our Mother, present our prayer of thanksgiving to your Son. Beg from Him the graces we need to be faithful disciples who follow Him with enthusiasm and joy. May our witness to the love of God bear fruit in our archdiocese, parishes, homes and hearts. Teach us to be God’s joyful witnesses, to radiate Christ in all we do, so that all people might know, love and follow your Son through this life and into the next. Amen.

26 |

PREGNANCY CENTER EAST

HELPING PARENTS THRIVE B Y JO HN S TEGEMA N

They served more than 1,600 clients in 2019. “We want to give them a safe, quiet space to figure out what choice would be best for them and their babies,” Curran said. This has been particularly important during the coronavirus shutdown. Curran said Ohio Governor Mike DeWine considered pregnancy centers an essential service, allowing them to continue operating. While the center usually has between 70-80 regular volunteers, they are operating on a skeleton crew of staff and about 10 volunteers right now. Imagine finding yourself pregnant and alone during a pandemic. That was the case for “Sarah,” a young woman who visited Pregnancy Center East during the COVID-19 lockdown. “Sarah came in, and she had a previous abortion and was contemplating having another one,” said Laura Curran, executive director of Pregnancy Center East. “She came in during this crisis and was very fearful because of COVID-19. We were able to do an ultrasound for her.” Curran said usually when women see the baby moving during an ultrasound, it is a very spiritual moment, but this one had extra surprises. The sonographer discovered Sarah was pregnant with not one, but three babies. “She had not just one little soul to consider, but three souls to consider,” Curran said. “We have remained in touch with her through this whole process, and she has chosen life for those babies.” She continued, “Our mission is to help couples who find themselves in a crisis pregnancy to not only choose life, but also to thrive in their choice, whether it is birth or adoption.” Around 800 people per year receive ongoing material assistance in the form of diapers, children’s clothes, baby wipes, car seats, cribs and more. People in need can come every three months. “We are going to help her with what she needs to be successful… We’re going to provide that for her. We’re not going to abandon you once you make your decision,” said Curran. The non-profit has been operating on Cincinnati’s East Side for 38 years and offers a variety of services, including pregnancy testing, ultrasounds, parenting classes, postabortion counseling and a 24-hour crisis pregnancy hotline.

“During this COVID-19 crisis, the intensity of the fear has just exploded,” Curran said. “A woman who might have just been a little fearful about her pregnancy is now just really scared... More people are coming in. When they get a hold of a real person and meet us face-to-face, they are the most extremely grateful clients we’ve ever had. It has been very intense for our volunteers and for the clients themselves.”

“We’re not going to abandon you once you make your decision.” Calls for baby food and clothes have increased as people are furloughed or laid off from work. The center has been able to meet the need thus far, but a funding challenge remains. Pregnancy Center East’s biggest fundraiser is an annual banquet, which was canceled this year because of social distancing requirements. The banquet brings in 60 percent of the Center’s operating budget. Staff have been reaching out to the 900 people who would have attended to seek donations, and are asking anyone in a position to give to help out by visiting SupportPCE.com. Additionally, Pregnancy Center East is moving from Norwood to a new location at 4760 Madison Road, near Madison Bowl. The new location is larger and will allow them to serve more clients and to become a broader service organization. “What we really want this to be is the pregnancy center of the future, to make us a hub, so that we can service the whole person,” Curran said. “We want them to be successful in life.” NE WS | 27

QUARANTINED AT SEA FATHER WALLER MINISTERS AMIDST VIRUS FEARS BY EILEEN C ONNEL L Y, O S U

When Father Rob Waller boarded Holland America Lines MS Westerdam in mid-January for a cruise to Southeast Asia, he anticipated a great adventure. What he didn’t anticipate was a COVID-19 scare that would ultimately lead to a unique bonding and prayer experience for the passengers and crew and meaningful ministerial opportunity for him as the ship’s resident priest.

The result was many days at sea as the Westerdam passengers and crew formed their own community of sorts, with Father Waller continuing to provide daily Mass, hearing confessions, encouraging prayer and providing pastoral care. Being turned away at Manila was especially difficult for the many Filipino crew members, he said.

Formerly the longtime pastor at St. Andrew Parish in Milford, Father Waller was introduced to service as a cruise ship chaplain after retiring in 2015. At the encouragement of Father Ken Baker, he joined the ranks of Apostleship of the Sea, a U.S.-based organization that places Catholic priests on cruise ships to ensure passengers have access to the sacraments while on vacation.

“They crew were going to be welcoming something like 800 of their family members on board to spend the day on the ship, to see where their loved one lives and works, and for six hours to do all the things on the ship that we passengers do all day long every day,” Father Waller explained. “On top of that, moms and grandmas were bringing home-cooked food. Down on A Deck, the crew has a Filipino cook in the mess hall, but the food is nothing like the food Mom and Grandma make at home. And even on top of that, there were a couple dads who were going to be holding their newborn children for the first time.”

“The traveling piece appealed to me, and I had the time,” Father Waller said, “plus it’s significant for the passengers and crew and the opportunity to be present to them. The priest on board is responsible for Sunday and daily Masses. You kind of have a leg in both worlds. You’re part of the crew, but with passenger privileges.” Father Waller’s travels thus far have taken him to destinations such as Alaska, the Panama Canal and the Norwegian Fjords. Father Waller joined the Westerdam in Singapore on Jan. 16 for a 28-day cruise. The ship, carrying 1,455 passengers and 802 crew, made scheduled stops in Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam, before docking in Hong Kong, where the Westerdam spent about 34 hours as 800 people disembarked and 800 new passengers came on board. Although there was no sign of coronavirus on the ship, there was concern because Hong Kong has been so hard-hit by COVID-19 that the Westerdam was denied entry by Japan, the Philippines, Guam and Thailand. 2 8 | NEWS

While there was some anxiety on board the ship, Father Waller acknowledged, the passengers and crew generally remained in good spirits and kept a sense of humor about their shared predicament. They prayed a novena for illness or the virus, and Father Waller appreciated the increased opportunity to be present to his traveling companions. The entertainment staff took it upon themselves to create additional activities for distraction and entertainment, including a corn hole tournament, dance trivia game, and a poolside “radio show.” “The crew was extraordinary, even more so than usual,” he said, “and the passengers treated them so well, constantly expressing gratitude. It made me very proud to be the priest on board the Westerdam during this situation.”

The Westerdam finally received word that the ship would be welcomed to dock in Cambodia and use the airport to fly home. The ship arrived at the port of Sihanoukville on Feb. 13. Amid much fanfare, the Cambodian prime minister flew in the next day via helicopter to greet passengers and crew. There were flowers, speeches and gifts for the weary travelers, as the first group disembarked. The first passengers to leave the ship boarded buses and left the port on their way to the small airport in Sihanoukville. From there, they boarded charter planes, which took them to the large international airport in Phnom Penh to catch their flights home. Other groups departed over the next several days. Concerns developed when an 83-yearold American woman, who showed no signs of illness on board, felt unwell upon arriving in Malaysia and tested positive for COVID-19. The diagnosis raised fears that others who had been on the Westerdam may have unknowingly been carrying the virus. Later testing on the woman came back negative for COVID-19. The morning following his return home, Father Waller reported to the Miami County Public Health Department on his own initiative. He then immediately began self-quarantine

ST. PETER IN CHAINS

PLE ASE J O I N US AS W E

CATHEDRAL

Live-Stream Daily Mass

In these uncertain times and re-opening plans surrounding the coronavirus changing frequently, look for the most up-to-date Cathedral Mass times on our website.

mo n - sa t • 8 AM su n d a y • 11 AM

at home, taking his temperature twice daily and reporting it the epidemiologist. To those who expressed their concern for his welfare, Father Waller shared that his thoughts and prayers remained with his friends on the Westerdam and he felt like he had “abandoned ship.” “Right now, I do not need anything, except to know that things are resolved for the passengers and the crew. Until then, I will feel unsettled and isolated,” he told neighbors and friends. He soon learned that the passengers from the Westerdam, held in Malaysia and Cambodia, had tested negative for the virus, been cleared and were on their way home. All members of the Westerdam crew also tested negative. Father Waller then heard from the epidemiologist that he was cleared since the individuals from the Westerdam were reclassified as lowrisk. His first priority? Getting a haircut! Father Waller has no travel plans for the remainder of 2020, but “absolutely” will cruise again in the future. Meanwhile, a lesson learned on the cruise and reminder for all of us moving forward, he said, is that “We and the whole world are in this together.”

WATCH AT stpeterinchainscathedral.org

Explore all that our senior living community has to offer from the comfort of your own home! Participate in an online virtual tour today to see our dining room, courtyard, suites, and everything in between.

Schneiders Sweet Shop

in e

cin c

TA K E YO U R TO U R TO DAY B Y V I S I T I N G O U R W E B S I T E AT W W W. T R I P L E C R E E K R E T I R E M E N T. C O M ! |

in

az

vot

by

best ed premium homemade ice cream and candy since 1939 sodas floats na ti m a g malts sundaes banana splits waffle cones and more premium homem ad e turtle sundaes gourmet ice balls with ice cream

ASSISTED LIVING | INDEPENDENT LIVING

420 Fairfield Ave, Bellevue KY • 859-431-3545 T H E C AT H OL IC T E LE G R A PH | 29

CATHOLIC CHARITIES OF SOUTHWESTERN OHIO

HOPE IN THE TIME OF COVID-19 B Y REB ECCA S O N TA G

“Where, God, do You need me right now?” It is that simple yet incredibly profound prayer that has guided much of Tony Stieritz’s career thus far. It is a prayer that led him through his 14-year tenure as Director of Social Action for the Archdiocese of Cincinnati. It is also the prayer that brought him to Catholic Charities of Southwestern Ohio (CCSWO) as Chief Operating Officer (COO) in 2018. And it was that ongoing discernment, following where Christ leads, that landed Stieritz in this current role as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) for Catholic Charities following the retirement of his predecessor, Ted Bergh. It is difficult to imagine a more comprehensive introduction to Stieritz’s new position as CEO when considering his background. In his previous role as COO, he oversaw operations of the 11 charitable programs that Catholic Charities provides its clients; mental health services, mobile food pantries, support for refugees and assistance for immigrants and the elderly counted among them. Additionally, Stieritz had about 18 months to form and forge solid relationships anchored in trust both with colleagues and community partners alike. However, in between the time he accepted the position in February and officially started on April 6, the entire world radically changed. Stieritz’s prayer has never been about him, but about what God wants of him. The answer has consistently been to serve God by serving others. That is one thing this global pandemic did not change. “What we are about at Catholic Charities is building a community of hope,” said Stieritz.

“What we are about at Catholic Charities is building a community of hope.” 3 0 | NEWS

The community to which Stieritz refers to is far reaching, and it includes the life-giving and mission-sustaining donors – both large and small – who keep the doors open and the services available. It is the clients in need, young and old, black, brown and white, who desperately need

these signs of God’s love in their lives. It is community partners, like the Freestore Foodbank, who help magnify the impact of Catholic Charities’ success. It is the men and women employed by Catholic Charities who work tirelessly during these uncertain times. At this unusual moment in human history, CCSWO has shown itself to be nimble and creative as they adapt to continue serving those in need while acting as good stewards for their partners in mission – who include donors like you. Mobile food pantries, needed more now than ever, have been converted to drive-throughs to keep everyone safe. Care packages of food and diapers are being porch-dropped for moms and babies and therapists and social workers are using video chat and teleconferencing for casework and client support. Resources are being smartly directed to critically pressing needs and the departments within CCSWO are not insulated from each other, but working together wherever they are needed to support not just the community, but each other as well. COVID-19 will not last forever, but the lessons learned and some of these new ways of doing things will likely persist. Video conferencing and meetings will likely be part of the

Tony Stieritz, new CEO at Catholic Charities Southwestern Ohio, takes the lead amidst the coronavirus pandemic.

new normal. Drive-through food pantries may prove to be useful going forward as well. Most importantly, though, is what will not change. “It is our determination. It is our spirit. It is our faith – that what we are doing is what Christ wants us to do. That’s what is going to keep Catholic Charities moving forward in the end. The more that people are connected, the stronger we are,” said Stieritz.

STILL Serving Local Families. STILL Changing Local Lives. For more than 100 years, Catholic Charities Southwestern Ohio has served local families in the Archdiocese of Cincinnati. Our services are essential for residents of Greater Cincinnati and our commitment to serve the poor, protect the vulnerable and welcome the stranger has not wavered — especially in times of crisis. YOUR SUPPORT IS ESSENTIAL TO SUSTAINING WORKS OF MERCY.

DONATE TODAY AT www.ccswoh.org/donate

SUSTAIN WORKS OF MERCY IN SOUTHWESTERN OHIO Enclosed is my gift of: £$25 £$50 £$100 £$250 £$500 £$__________ Please make checks payable to: Catholic Charities Southwestern Ohio Mid Pointe Tower, 7162 Reading Rd., Ste. 600 Cincinnati, OH 45237

CT_June 7.25x475.indd 1

Name E-Mail

Phone

Address

City

State

Zip

| 31 T H E C AT H OL IC T E4/24/20 L E G R A12:33 PH PM

40 Years of inner-city school success

B Y JOE B RID E

As Catholic Inner-city Schools Education (CISE) celebrates 40 years of transformational success, it is important to remember Cincinnati businesses were at the heart of CISE’s creation.

all around us, building up our community. They are business people and clergy, teachers and law enforcement, the military, doctors and nurses, and moms and dads.

In 1980, Cincinnati had a strong and viable downtown, more so than many American cities, but its downtown and neighborhoods were changing. Many families were moving to the suburbs, leaving lower-income families behind. This change in demographics meant parish schools in downtown Cincinnati were at risk of closing.

CREATIVE PROBLEM SOLVING

Ed Harness at Procter and Gamble, and Ralph Lazarus at Lazarus Filing Services, along with fellow business leaders, believed these neighborhoods could continue to thrive, and more children would be educated if the inner-city Catholic schools stayed open. To that effect, the Cincinnati business community supported the founding of CISE. Since that time, not only have CISE schools become landmarks of importance in these neighborhoods, but CISE graduates are 3 2 | N EWS

CISE’s original concept was to raise funds in support of the schools with parents providing some financial assistance for tuition, based on their means. As time passed, poverty in the inner-city grew and CISE began stepping up to provide greater support, adding wraparound services and programs to the schools. COVID-19 is the biggest challenge CISE has faced, but true to its history of creative problem-solving, CISE responded quickly to implement strategies and tactics to facilitate distance-learning during closures. “Because of the closing of the schools, we had two major goals,” said Mabe Rodriguez, CISE executive director. “We had to find ways to continue educating our 2,400 children, with

many barriers to overcome, and we had to find meals for a high percentage of these students.” As many as two-thirds of CISE scholars receive two of their daily meals at school. The CISE staff and a dedicated group of teachers and principals went to work. La Soupe, O Pie O Bake House, the Cincinnati Public Schools USDA free and reduced lunch program, and other partners, donated food, and volunteers assembled and distributed meals. To enable distance-learning, Chromebooks and supplies were sent home with students. Many households can’t afford internet service, so CISE initiated a partnership with Spectrum to provide free internet service to students for 60 days. Homework packs were distributed for weekly drive-by pickup. Completed homework is dropped off by parents, read by principals and sent to teachers for review and grading. “The result,” said Rodriguez, “is that we are making progress with our students. We thank our partners who have stepped up to support us and we thank our caring donors. Most of all, we thank our principals and teachers.” For 40 years, CISE has known that it is the teachers’ incredible commitment and devotion to their students that makes the difference.

start of school nurse and summer enrichment programs. A collaboration with Seton Education Partners enabled the creation of a blended learning program at two CISE Schools and is reshaping Resurrection of Our Lord School. Support from Hamilton County Educational Services and The H. C. Schott Foundation facilitated a significant math intervention program across all CISE schools and grades. “The result of these changes means that CISE is in a stronger position than ever to serve Cincinnati’s inner-city children in need,” said Rodriguez. “We are proud to say that we have helped our students receive a strong, faith-based education, values for life in a safe, nurturing and welcoming environment. In the last several years, we have expanded our support in many ways and results speak louder than words. We thank those who have helped make CISE possible, and to rewrite the futures of our city’s children most in need.” CISE serves 2,400 scholars at nine inner-city Catholic schools and provides scholarship assistance at designated Catholic high schools. Approximately 93-percent of CISE students are from low-income families; 84-percent are minorities; 74 percent are non-Catholic. Ninety-four percent of CISE graduates are accepted into college.

CISE has been doubly fortunate in being able to respond to needs created by this pandemic. Under the leadership of Ted Torbeck, former CEO of Cincinnati Bell, and his wife Peggy, the CISE 2019 Annual Campaign reached a record goal of $4.6 million. “Because we are rewriting the futures of these kids now, the investment will benefit all of Cincinnati in the future,” Torbeck said. EVOLVING TO MEET THE NEED

From its simple start as a fund-raising organization, CISE has evolved into the multi-faceted non-profit it is today. The first fundraiser was in 1982, when Cincinnati businessman Pete Bushelman initiated the annual CISE raffle. In 1997, the Lindner family donated funds to bring technology to the schools. In 2000, the Catholic high school tuition aid program began, providing financial assistance to all qualifying eighth grade CISE graduates to continue their education at a Catholic high school. In 2006, Ohio’s EdChoice program was created, providing funds for the education of children in need. Harry Fath led a fund drive to raise $10 million for the CISE Foundation in 2007. In 2009, Joe and Susan Pichler created a match for new and increased campaign gifts and have done so every year since. The John J. & Mary R. Schiff Foundation gift allowed the T H E C AT H OL IC T E L E G R A PH | 33

Brother David Henley Buckeye-State Brother Hopes Others Will Answer Call BY JOHN STEGEMAN

When David Henley graduated high school, he suspected he had a calling, but first he had to figure out where God wanted him. He joined a diocesan discernment group and began exploring. It wasn’t long until he first encountered the Glenmary Home Missioners, but still there were choices to make. Over a 10-year period, he stayed in touch with Glenmary, visiting its group volunteer program and participating in vocation retreats. His commitments went from short-term to spending more than year helping manage the program. In time, he found his true calling was to religious brotherhood. “As I got to know Glenmary, I saw the ministry being done by Glenmary brothers,” he said. “I was inspired by them and saw how my gifts could also be used and shared as a Glenmary brother.” Glenmary Home Missioners is a Catholic society of priests, brothers and lay coworkers who bring the Catholic Church to rural Appalachia and the South where it is not effectively present. In most Glenmary territories, which missioners refer to as “Mission Land, USA,” Catholics make up less than one percent of the population. Along the way, Brother Henley worked as a waiter, professional juggler and street performer. He also stayed open to the promptings of the Holy Spirit. He discerned with two other religious orders and spent time as a lay missioner. “But my call was to be a rural missioner,” he said. “I had tried other places, but I knew my heart was calling me back to Glenmary and Mission Land, USA. I had seen the tremendous need in rural Appalachia and knew that there was a wide variety

“I think the brothers’ ministry is essential to the Church and to building the kingdom.” 3 4 | I N PROFILE

of ways that I could serve.” Religious brothers have always maintained a smaller footprint than religious sisters and priests in terms of total population, but have suffered a similar decline in recent decades. The Center for Applied Research in the Apostolate (CARA) reported the national population of brothers in 2014 was 4,318, down from 12,271 in 1965. Brothers serve in a variety of roles. Brother Henley has worked as a Spanish-English translator, poultry plant line worker and religious educator before taking on his current role as Glenmary’s Vocation Director. Brothers can find themselves working in any field their talents are suited to, bringing the faith to those around them in a way consistent with their community’s charism. Henley suggests those discerning their vocation begin with prayer and keep in mind that the priesthood is not the only option in the religious field for men. “Most vocation materials young men will encounter are asking them to discern priesthood,” he said. “I think the first way to discern is to pray about it. Then tell someone you’re thinking about it. Tell your parish priest, or a family member or a close friend. How do they respond? Do they say it’s a good idea? Why or why not? And the best part is to come and see. Try to visit two or three different religious communities to experience their community life and their ministry. It is a good thing to compare when you are at this stage of discerning. Ask yourself, where do I see myself fitting in with these communities?” God is still calling men to the vocation today. Brother Henley notes that since 2006, Glenmary has had just as many men take final oath as brothers as it has ordained to the priesthood. “I think the brothers’ ministry is essential to the Church and to building the kingdom,” he said. “I know God is still calling men to be Glenmary brothers, I am praying that they respond with a yes.”

BY BOB WURZELBACHER

CROSS THE BRIDGE FOR LIFE USES FUNDS TO SUPPORT LOCAL AGENCIES

ON JUNE 7, CELEBRATE LIFE! Wear your favorite Cross the Bridge for Life t-shirt, obey social distancing guidelines and get outside with your family! Post a photo at facebook.com/CTBforLife

The 2020 Cross the Bridge for Life, a celebration of life organized under the auspices of the Diocese of Covington and the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, was canceled this year due to concern over the spread of COVID-19. “While the decision to cancel was difficult, the safety of our community is the most important thing”, said Peggy Piccola, Cross the Bridge Steering Committee member.

pregnancy care directors from Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky. The idea was to form a Greater Cincinnati Life Coalition to have a positive, family-friendly event to: 1) inspire those involved in the pro-life movement and be a witness to the sanctity of life; 2) inform the public of the many life-affirming services in the area for women, children and families; and 3) fill the Purple People Bridge with the joy of life! Some 20 Greater Cincinnati life-affirming organizations are united in this event and more than 35 sponsors underwrite it. While it’s conducted under the auspices of the Diocese of Covington and Archdiocese of Cincinnati, a steering committee was formed in 2016 with representatives from prolife agencies and organizations on both sides of the river.

PAY IT FORWARD

Although this is undoubtedly disappointing to the organizers, sponsors, and the thousands who participate in the walk every year, the organizers have decided to mark this 15th anniversary by paying it forward. Karen Riegler, chair of the Cross the Bridge Steering Committee, said, “Because of the loyalty of our many sponsors over the years, we have decided to take a portion of the funds we have collected, and would have used for this year’s event, and offer it in the form of financial grants to the agencies in our Life Coalition. These 15 pro-life agencies and organizations have been at the forefront of helping women and men choose life for their unborn babies throughout our community.” While a grant program was already planned as part of the 15th anniversary celebration, due to the generosity of faithful sponsors, they will now be able to implement the program on an even larger scale. This is especially important right now, as many of these lifeaffirming agencies are experiencing the financial ramifications of the COVID-19 pandemic. “We are so thankful to the businesses who have stepped forward to help fund this program in spite of the financial uncertainty for everyone,” added Riegler. INITIATED TO INSPIRE

Cross the Bridge for Life was initiated in 2005 by two former T H E C AT H OL IC T E LE G R A PH | 35

The Land of cross-tipped Churches New Series on the History of the Communities of the Northern Archdiocese BY SUSIE BERGMAN

MARIA STEIN SHRINE (PHOTO / SUSIE BERGMAN)

When traveling in the most northern, rural part of the diocese, it’s hard not to notice the flat, fertile farmland and numerous spires that adorn the sky. Growing up in this area, we always took prideful humor in the fact that most towns consisted of only two important things: a bar and a church. It’s a lighthearted homage to the German Catholic heritage that instilled a strong work ethic within the area and helped develop the traditional values still visible today. Still, many of us who grew up in this area have taken those beautiful spires, their history and their fascinating story of faith for granted. It is, in fact, truly a blessing that something as unique and magnificent as the “Land of the Cross-Tipped Churches” is nestled within the most rural part of our archdiocese. And for many of us, right in our backyards. The Maria Stein Shrine of the Holy Relics in Mercer County is the epicenter of this scenic byway that radiates for 30 miles into nearby Auglaize and Darke Counties. It 3 6 | A LO OK BACK

includes 60 historic buildings representing the (mostly) German Catholic settlements of the late 1800s. These churches, rectories, seminaries, convents and schools were placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1979. They were served by the Missionaries of the Precious Blood, an order that was brought to America from Switzerland in 1843 by Father Brunner via an invitation from Bishop John Baptist Purcell of the Cincinnati Archdiocese. At the time, the rural area was being ministered to by a French priest who struggled to communicate with the growing German population. As these immigrants came to America, they travelled along the Ohio River to Cincinnati and then followed the Miami-Erie Canal to Minster. Built in 1835, St. Augustine Church in Minster, known for its unique gothic, double-spire exterior, is the oldest building in the byway. Father Brunner was the son of Maria Anna Brunner, a spiritual daughter of St. Gaspar del Bufalo. Mother

Brunner, as she was referred to, was known for her generosity and devotion to Eucharistic prayer. In Switzerland she established a small order known as the Sisters of the Precious Blood. When Father Brunner came to America, he initially brought 14 Precious Blood priests and brothers, in addition to many relics he acquired. In 1844, three sisters arrived in the area and brought with them the remainder of his relics. In November of 1845, the first cornerstone for the Maria Stein convent was laid. This was the third convent of 10 that Father Brunner built and the only one left standing today. The Maria Stein Shrine of the Holy Relics is no longer a convent. The building has evolved over the years and now holds the second largest holy relic collection in the U.S., as well as a nationally-recognized historical museum. Visitors from all over the country come to marvel at the architecture and

Currently, there are 33 churches and religious sites still standing along the Land of the Cross-Tipped Churches scenic byway. In the next issue, local historian, Matthew Hess will take us through the fascinating history of architecture and early settlement living as we explore the byway. Hess is the director of ministry at the Maria Stein Shrine. While he did not grow up attending these churches, he has always felt a strong connection to their past. As the Archdiocese of Cincinnati approaches its bicentennial in 2021, we thought it would be fitting to take a closer look at the history of our community and celebrate the faith-filled perseverance of our ancestors. For more information on the Land of the Cross-Tipped Churches, visit The Greater Grand Lake Visitors Region at seemore.org.

$50 off

Jaime’s Tree Service Commercial + residential Tree removal Stump grinding Trimming Storm work Cabling Free estimates! jaimestreeservice.com treeserviceoh@gmail.com 513.372.5194

• Interview your caregiver • Assistance with hygiene • Light housekeeping • Meal preparation • Errands/shopping • Respite care • 2-24 hour care

bask in the glow of this rural diamond that shines in the heart of God’s Country.

Trimming or tree removal Valid with coupon only. Cannot be combined with another offer. Expires 6/30/20

$10 off

Stump grinding Valid with coupon only. Cannot be combined with another offer. Expires 6/30/20

Serving Greater Cincinnati & N Kentucky 513-531-9600 859-261-1234 familybridges.com

• Personalized and exceptional service for post-mastectomy care. • Custom breast forms, breast prostheses, bras, camisoles, postmastectomy swimwear and postsurgical garments.

www.personalsymmetrics.com

Call Tammy for an appointment (513) 221-7200

POST-ACUTE HEALTHCARE SERVICES ASSISTED LIVING | AND MORE 513-769 - 0511 | T H E G L E N S L .C O M | T H E C AT H OL IC T E LE G R A PH | 37

Forging Connection “BE OF GOOD CHEER, I HAVE OVERCOME THE WORLD.” BY MARK DANIS

There is a lexicon evolving in our nation’s response to COVID-19 that the Church must reject. Terms like quarantine, isolation and social distancing can lead us to retreat, withdrawal and avoidance. But Christ’s words demand a proactive response to our current situation. We must take this time to explore and adopt new ways of reconnecting with one another in Christ.

technology can help build on relationships in communities that have already been established.” Online forums were something the Carmelites had not done before. But in response to restrictions on large gatherings, virtual interaction offered a new opportunity for all Community members to come together again.

God has provided us the means of overcoming the limitations PERMANENT DEACON CANDIDATES FORGE imposed by the pandemic, and these go beyond merely liveSTRONGER BONDS streaming Masses or providing online catechetical formation. In similar fashion, the current class of archdiocesan permanent According to Joshua Danis, national director for Alpha in a deacon candidates refused to allow the virus to dictate their Catholic Context (ACC), “The challenge with some of the spring semester. The in-person classes ended in early March Church’s online response to the pandemic is that it is onewith the closure of Mt. St. Mary’s Seminary and School of directional. What is needed,” he contends, Theology, but according to candidate Joe are: “many to many relationships. Families Grote, “This group of 18 men are more than The current class need to interact with families, friends need just classmates, we are brothers.” of archdiocesan to reconnect with friends and neighbors permanent deacon need to rediscover neighbors – in a Christian While still in their first year of formation, candidates refused context. The focus must not be primarily on these men have already overcome significant content, but on community.” to allow the virus to challenges. Aside from the pandemic, dictate their spring members of the class have endured FAITH COMMUNITIES RECONNECT unemployment, medical challenges and semester. Jeanne Paula is a member of Dayton’s Secular even a life-threatening condition for one Order of Discalced Carmelites. She has not candidate’s newborn grandchild. attended their monthly meeting for more than a year, as she cares for her 94-year-old mother. But in her Community’s In each case, the men closed ranks and responded with prayer, response to COVID-19, Paula recently reconnected, including around-the-clock rosaries. When Grote recently interacted and even prayed with her Carmelite family in a convened an online gathering, the men began as they always virtual forum. do: They prayed together. Afterwards, they shared stories of family, work and preparation for final exams. They even “I have been deprived of my Community. We communicate witnessed one member kissing his daughter good night, through email, telephone and letters, but this online something they could not have shared in their evenings gathering allowed us to be in each other’s presence and feel together at the seminary. comfortable sharing our struggles and victories – we were able to encourage each other,” said Paula. We as a Church should never allow the world to separate us as a community. We are here to be Christ to one another. When Faith communities across the archdiocese are feeling the exterior circumstances impose themselves on us, we cannot impact of pandemic-imposed isolation, but they are also cower or shelter in isolation. Instead, we should exploit every discovering new, innovative ways to gather. According to Sean means at our disposal to embrace Jesus’ message of victory. Ater, archdiocesan director of evangelization, “Technology As St. Paul himself taught, “In all these things we are more is just a tool, but the COVID crisis has shown us how than conquerors through Him who loved us” (Romans 8:37). 3 8 | NEW S

11. The names of those who promote this devotion will be written in My Heart, never to be blotted out. 12. I promise you, in the excessive mercy of My Heart,heart that My The sacred is aall-powerful love symbol being both will grantoftoJesus all those who receive human and divine.on the First Friday Holy Communion of nine consecutive months, the grace It’s also an ancient Catholic devotion. In 1302, in My disgrace nor without receiving St.Gertrude experienced a Heart their Sacraments; My Divine vision where Christ allowed shall be their safe refuge in her this last to rest her head near the moment. wound in the Savior’s. She heard the beating of the Divine Heart. In the 1600s, St. Margaret Mary Alacoque - who was a French nun - experienced visions of Jesus where she, too rested her head on Jesus’ heart. She wrote down her apparitions, which were published and widely read.

In 1899, Pope Leo XIII solemnly consecrated the entire world to the Sacred Heart. On June 1, 2008, Pope Benedict XVI encouraged Catholics to “renew devotion to the Sacred Heart of Christ in the month of June.” When is the feast day of the Most Sacred Heart? It’s celebrated 19 days after Pentecost. This year, that’s June 19, 2020. What is a prayer we can say together? Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, I put my trust in You.

ALACOQUE

MARGARET

APPARITIONS

MERCY

BLESSINGS

PEACE

COMFORT

REFUGE

JESUS

SACRED HEART

JUNE

K ID S ’ CO R NE R | 39

OUT AND ABOUT IN THE A RC HDI OC ESE

1

2

3

1) TEN DEACONS ORDAINED On April 25, the Archdiocese of Cincinnati celebrated the ordination of 10 men to the diaconate. Seven men were ordained as transitional deacons for the Archdiocese of Cincinnati; one man was ordained as a permanent deacon for the Archdiocese of Cincinnati; and two men were ordained as transitional deacons for the Oratory of St. Philip Neri in Cincinnati. Congratulations to transitional deacons: Aaron Hess, Edward Hoffmann, Louis Jacquemin, Michael Kapolka, Anthony Marcelli, Scott Morgan, Elijah Puthoff, Brother Henry Hoffmann and Brother Brent Stull; and permanent deacon, Jim Niswonger.

2) EASTER LILY DELIVERIES During Lent and Easter the Newport-Fort Loramie Pastoral Region brings Easter lilies to homebound and parishioners who reside in nursing homes/care facilities. This year, with COVID-19, the parishes delivered the lilies with extra precautions. Each flower drop-off was approved in advance, and volunteers rang doorbells and left flowers on porches.

3) MESSAGES OF HOPE Parishioners have started leaving sidewalk chalk messages for Father Steven Shoup and for those who visit St. Michael Church in Fort Loramie, which is open during the day for private prayer.

4

5

4) OFFERING ENCOURAGEMENT Our Lord Christ the King Parish in Cincinnati partnered with StreamSpot to broadcast Mass. For each day of Easter’s Holy Week, clergy recorded a personal message, too. Father Ed Smith, Father Frank Voellmecke and Deacon Don Gloeckler recorded brief video messages offering encouragement during this time of social-distancing.

5) ROGATION DAY & BLESSING Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish in Anderson Township held a Rogation Day procession and blessing of the IHM grounds on April 25. 4 0 | OU T & A BOUT

catholic crossword 8

10

15

21

25

22

39 42 45

49

50

46

53

54

55

61

62

63

64

65

66

56

57

58

59

60

1 Genesis to Deuteronomy 6 ThinkPads, e.g. 10 Commit a deadly sin 14 Silly 15 Beancurd 16 Rock add-on 17 Leader of the Maccabees 19 Demeanor 20 “None of us lives to himself, and none of us ___ to himself.” (Rom 14:7) 21 Shared 23 Mythological vengeance deities 26 Those whom Jesus came to call 27 Wash bowl 28 Jeremiah was put in these (Jer 20:1–2) 30 Retaliate 32 Boat spot 33 Doze 36 ___ of Hosts 37 Madrid museum (with “el”) 39 Flat-fish 40 Hosp.trauma centers 41 Coffin stand 42 Acid used in the production of explosives 44 Obsessive preoccupation 46 Tricks

47 Source of the cedar trees used in the temple 50 Number of apostles after Judas died 52 Section of New York City 53 “How will it end for those who ___ to obey the gospel of God?” (1 Pet 4:17) 54 On the ocean 55 Sacraments group 61 Catholic actor Connery 62 Nothing 63 Snare 64 ___ Seltzer 65 Biblical garden 66 Distrust DOWN 1 Catholic newsman Russert 2 “Three ___ Match” 3 Tell on 4 Queen’s worker 5 Course 6 Most likely, Paul’s first epistle (abbr.) 7 French wood 8 Julliard deg. 9 Misgiving 10 Clunkers 11 Beneficial 12 Guide 13 Is inclined 18 “Bind them upon your heart always; ___ them about your

Traditional Irish Bagpiper gfritsch48@zoomtown.com www.cincinnatipiper.com 513-404-0049

513-891-8373

Serving Norwood, St. Bernard and surrounding communities

NAEGELE KLEB & IHLENDORF

www.wordgamesforcatholics.com

ACROSS

A Catholic Family Owned Funeral Home – Since 1877

Gerry Kelly Fritsch

51

neck.” (Prov 6:21) 22 Fixing grub for GI’s 23 Goodwill 24 Consumers 25 Outer covering 26 Traded 27 Bundle 29 Former Russian rulers 31 Typify 33 Scandinavian 34 Extraterrestrial 35 They’re above abs 38 Restraint 39 Alphabet string 41 The “B” of N.B. 43 Land of St. Patrick 44 Lola, Broadway dancer and convert to Catholicism 45 Catholic female lead of “Everybody Loves Raymond” 47 Capital of Tibet 48 Artist’s support 49 “Let us ___ bread together on our knees.” 51 Nero’s full deck? 53 Symbol of the Holy Spirit 56 Actor Beatty 57 Also 58 Acknowledgement of debt 59 Benedictine letters 60 “…the kingdom of heaven is like a ___” (Mt 13:47)

513-385-0511

5527 Cheviot Rd. (White Oak/Monfort Heights) 10211 Plainfield Rd. (Blue Ash/Evendale/Sharonville)

Funeral Home 3900 Montgomery Rd. • 513-631-2240 Bernie Naegele, Directors

T.P. White & Sons Funeral Home

Since 1910

2050 Beechmont Ave. • 513-231-7150 Mt. Washington/Anderson Twp.

Family owned & operated since 1870 George H. 1910

HODAPP FUNERAL HOMES College Hill, 6041 Hamilton Ave • (513) 541-1040 Carthage, 7401 Vine St. • (513) 821-0805 West Chester, 8815 Cinti-Col. Rd. • (513) 777-8433 Liberty Township, 6410 Cincinnati Dayton Rd. • 513-847-1088

John H. 1920

J.H.(Don) 1948

Steve 1975

Four generations of family service to Eastern Cincinnati.

3183 Linwood Avenue • Mt. Lookout Square Serving Eastern Hills, Mt. Lookout & Hyde Park

321-0404

HAMILTON

513.721.0781 www.josberningprinting.com

Serving the Archdiocese for 137 years!

NOTICE: Mount Notre Dame High School misspelled the names of the following students in its Class of 2020 ad. They are: Mi’Cayla HendrixPitts, Megan Von Lehmden, Abigail Von Nida, and Alexis Von Nida. They extend their sincerest apologies.

T E N D S

44

Funeral Services

43

S T E E R

41

52

2019 Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC. Member SIPC.

35

AL-JOE’S

173 N. BROOKWOOD AVE.

The Complete Garden Store • 513-894-3291 Pet Foods and Supplies Dog Furnishings

T O R I N A M A T

38

34

P E C S

37

33

U S E R S

36

32

F A V O R

31

NMLS#1868565

B A L E

30

brian.m.andzik@morganstanley.com

29

A L I E N

28

48

BRI A N A NDZI K First Vice President Financial Advisor 4380 Buckeye Lane, Suite 200 Beavercreek, OH 45440 937-431-7880

26

27

40

13

19

20 24

12

16

18

23

11

O N S E B T

17

47

9

www.wordgamesforcatholics.com

14

7

B M S L U O F U E T I A S M I S P O O L S I N N E T O C K S S L I P N A D O S O R N I T R S H R U S E L E V E A I L T I A T I O N O O N D O U

6

F I R E

5

A H I T N E T A T H D I E R I E S S I N N G E D P R B I E F E T I A N O N L E M A I N N Z E A E D

4

B R E A K

3

E A S E L

2

Wealth Management | Retirement Planning | College Savings Plans

L H A S A

1

M OR G A N S T A N L EY

T H E C AT H OL IC T E L E G R A PH | 41

THE FINAL WORD with Corynne Staresinic

BE IN MY EYES, BE IN MY HEART

I could not sleep the night before I met a Catholic priest for the first time. Until that year of my life, my knowledge of Catholicism had been informed by negative headlines, my Evangelical pastors’ condemnations of the Church, and an encounter I had on the playground in first grade. As I remember it, I was told by a girl that I couldn’t play with her and her friends because I was not Catholic and, resultingly, going to hell. This experience became emblematic of my understanding of the Catholic Church. It was an exclusive club for the closed-off and cold-hearted that lacked any sort of understanding of the love of God. Years later, I was nervous that this meeting with the priest would be more of the same. But I still wanted to give this a shot. I was becoming weary of the faith I grew up with and feared that I didn’t fit the mold of the Christian life that had been presented to me. Catholicism unexpectedly entered the picture through a new relationship, and I came to realize there was much more to the Church than I had known. After a few months of researching and praying, I decided to meet with a priest – a Dominican from a church down in Madeira. On my drive to the meeting, I was tense. My heart pounded as snow flurries fell, and I rehearsed my questions for the priest aloud, to make sure I was articulating my thoughts correctly. I prayed for clear discernment, for God to be with me and to bring peace. At some point, “Flowers in Your Hair” by The Lumineers played in the background. It’s a song that is very much not about God, but there’s one line in it that felt applicable to the events at hand. It became my prayer, and it still gets stuck in my head whenever I kneel to pray in a church to this day. Be in my eyes, be in my heart. 4 2 | TH E F INAL WORD

The meeting went better than I could have hoped. We talked through all my questions, from those on the sacraments to the history of the Church. He never attacked me for speaking plainly. He never questioned my intentions or knowledge. He just listened and responded, kindly and humbly. He even shared a little bit with me about his own conversion story. Over the following months, we continued to meet, and about a year and a half later, I came into the Church. This priest was present to me, and I came to know Christ as a result. Unfortunately, I know this is not everyone’s experience of Catholicism. For many, I’m sure, it’s more akin to what I experienced on the playground as a first grader. But these kinds of experiences don’t have to continue. Our faith is not an elite club only for a select few. Each of us is called to radiate Christ’s love to those around us, just like that priest did for me all those years ago. How do we, as Catholics, better share Christ’s love with others? As I sit at my desk writing this, there’s a small replica of the Pieta next to me. When I look at the Pieta, I see the heart of the Christian life: that to love means to lay down our lives for others and keep our arms open to all. It is to see Christ in every person before us, and to find him in my own heart. It is to be present to every person we encounter. Be in my eyes, be in my heart, Jesus. CORYNNE STARESINIC is the founder and director of The Catholic Woman, a nonprofit multimedia platform illustrating the many faces and callings of women in the Church to inspire millennial Catholic women to live out their faith. She is a convert to Catholicism and a parishioner at the Cathedral of St. Peter in Chains with her husband, toddler and baby in utero.

Newly Remodeled with a Tradition of Care

ST. MARGARET HALL SPONSORED BY THE CARMELITE SISTERS

Short Term Rehabilitation Assisted Living Nicely Appointed Private Rooms

5 Star Facility

The Difference is Love

SM

LEARN MORE

stmargarethall.com 513-751-5880

4.0 x 5.0

Visit StAnthony.org to read about St. Anthony of Padua, post your prayer request, light a candle for your special intention, and much more.

StAnthony.org • National Shrine of St. Anthony 5000 Colerain Ave. • Cincinnati, OH 45223 • 513-721-4700, ext. 3219 | 43

100 E. 8th St. • Cincinnati, OH 45202

44 |