The Catholic Telegraph December 2021

MAGAZINE

190th year | issue 12

bringing faith into the home

december 2021 | hope | 1

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edi t or’s not e

Moments of Hope My brothers and I, who normally don’t get along, prayed together.

My last chemo treatment is done.

We are going to figure out a way to help your child at school.

I’m finally able to fly and see you after having to cancel twice because of the pandemic.

He got down on one knee, asked me to marry him, and I said yes!

My baby finally slept through the night.

I heard all of the above comments over the past couple of weeks from friends and coworkers. Each uttered with emotion, joy and genuine hope.

Just saying the word “hope” elicits a rising happiness and determined pursuit of a joyful future. And, as Christian faithful, we are uniquely suited to hope – both for this life and for life eternal.

“May your mercy, Lord, be upon us; as we put our hope in you.” Psalm 33:22 Just as I heard those who I know personally share their words of hope, so, too, do I have the privilege of learning and sharing the hope of others through The Catholic Telegraph.

While we intentionally plan most stories in each issue, many find their way to us. In the past couple of months, stories of hope kept landing on my desk – so much so that I thought, perhaps, the Holy Spirit was guiding me to make our final magazine issue of the year all about hope.

Thus, this issue in your hands is full of hopeful stories sent to The Catholic Telegraph by our readers. They are stories of restored marriages, the kindness of children, the love of faith and the love of local churches. They include young writers, growing Catholic school programs and the generosity of teachers.

And, most importantly, this issue includes the ultimate form of hope: prayer. After all, the season of Advent itself is one born of hope – hopeful longing for the birth of the Messiah.

From small disappointments to major crises, this past year included pain and despair for many of us. As we prepare for Christ’s birth, may this issue help inspire you to look to the future with hope.

Doing so as Catholic Christians, I take comfort in the words of Bishop Barron, and pray you will do the same: “We’re hopeful because of Jesus Christ... We look to Christ, Christ who conquered death. Christ who died for us, rose from the dead for our justification. Christ who is alive, who guides the Church, is present to it. Christ who is sending each one of us in our own way, right now, on mission. So keep your eyes fixed on Him.” Wishing you a blessed and hopeful Advent and Christmas.

cteditorial@catholicaoc.org THE CATHOLIC TELEGRAPH 190th Year No. 12 • December 2021 513-263-6635 • thecatholictelegraph.com

PUBLISHER Archbishop Dennis M. Schnurr

EDITOR Jessica Rinaudo

MEDIA SALES Deacon Graham Galloway

GRAPHIC DESIGN Emma Cassani

PHOTOGRAPHY Margaret Swensen

DIGITAL ENGAGEMENT Dominick Albano

NEW MEDIA EDITOR Greg Hartman

SOCIAL MEDIA Katherine Geiger

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

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contents news

hope

columns

8 BEACONS OF LIGHT

20 MARCHING INTO THE FUTURE

7 QUESTION OF FAITH

SUSIE BERGMAN

What are the O Antiphons?

Growing band program at Lehman High School

15 CATHOLIC AT HOME

DOMINICK ALBANO

Bringing your Family of Parishes together 10 A PRIEST’S PERSPECTIVE

KATIE SCIBA

FATHER EARL K. FERNANDES

22 SKILLS FOR LIFE

Synodality in the Church and of the Church

SUSIE BERGMAN

12 SYNOD ON SYNODALITY DEACON JOHN HOMOELLE

FATHER DAVID ENDRES

St. Mary’s School enriches the lives of children with Autism 24 SEIZE THE MOMENT

Waiting with hope 18 A CLOSER LOOK DR. KENNETH CRAYCRAFT

Generosity, gratitude and breaking the favor bank

NICHOLAS HARDESTY

14 PRAYING YOUR WAY THROUGH ADVENT DOMINICK ALBANO

Hoping against all hope

30 KIDS’ PAGE EMMA CASSANI

26 BEYOND THE FIELD

St. Rose Duchesne

ERIN REDER

16 CHRISTMAS CARETAKERS MATT HESS

Faithful Catholics at St. John Parish in Maria Stein transform the sanctuary each Advent 34 LASTING LEGACIES

St. Antoninus football program makes one boy’s dreams come true 28 RETROUVAILLE

36 THEOLOGY OF THE BODY DR. ANDREW SODERGREN

Original Unity: The Sexual Difference

JOHN STEGEMAN

38 MAKING CATHOLIC MEMORIES

Hope for troubled marriages

WAYNE & MARIANNE TOPP

St. Barbara’s Rice Krispie treat tower

KARY ELLEN BERGER

32 THE GARDEN WARRIOR

Chaminade Julienne honors the loss of two beloved educators

KARY ELLEN BERGER

42 THE FINAL WORD

13-year-old Catholic school student Ella Buckley publishes book

LISA M. HENDEY

Answering Advent’s call

ON THE COVER PHOTO BY: KATHERINE GEIGER

Kyle and Emily Thomas with their daughters, Ivy and Sienna.

4 | CONTENTS

Pope Francis’ Prayer Intention for December – Catechists: Let us pray for the catechists, summoned to announce the Word of God: may they be its witnesses, with courage and creativity and in the power of the Holy Spirit.

SEEK THE LORD ARCHBI S HO P D E NNIS M. SCH NUR R

One of our great treasures as Catholics is the rhythm of the Church calendar in which the hopeful message of God’s great love for us is renewed each year in a way that is familiar yet always new. A new Church year has just begun with the First Sunday of Advent, November 28.

Advent is a joyful period of waiting and preparation for Christ’s birth. St. Luke, in this year’s Gospel for the Second Sunday of Advent, quotes the prophet Isaiah: “Prepare the way of the Lord, make straight his paths” (Lk. 3:4; cf. Is. 40:3).

Advent is a season of hope precisely because it looks forward. The first readings of the Sunday liturgies for Advent present Old Testament prophets foreseeing a Messiah, whom we know to be Jesus. But Advent is not just about awaiting the Nativity of our Lord. The Catechism of the Catholic Church says, “When the Church celebrates the liturgy of Advent each year, she makes present this ancient expectancy of the Messiah, for by sharing in the long preparation for the Savior’s first coming, the faithful renew their ardent desire for his second coming” (CCC 524).

Advent reminds us that God keeps His promises now, as He did in the past and as He will in the future. As St. Paul assures us, “hope does not disappoint” (Rom. 5:5).

The Advent candles we light on each of the four Sundays before Christmas remind us that Christ, for whom we are waiting, is the true light and hope of the world. When we radiate Christ, we share that light and bring that hope to others.

Christ is alive and present in His Church, which is still charged with making disciples of all nations. This is our sacred mission. That does not mean, however, that we can

act as though nothing has changed over the past several decades. It would be irresponsible to do so, for the Church stands in the stream of time.

As joyful witnesses who must also be good stewards, we are called to make the best use of all the resources in our local Church. It is therefore appropriate to ask, are all our resources – human, physical and financial – properly ordered to missionary discipleship? Are they working in concert to continuously draw parishioners and attract new members into a more intimate relationship with Jesus? Or are they consumed by efforts to maintain the status quo and spread too thinly to be truly effective?

The Beacons of Light pastoral planning process is designed to address exactly these questions. I am convinced that this initiative, born in great hope, will enable us to form stronger parishes, centered on the Eucharist, that radiate the love of Christ and the joy of the Gospel. To the thousands of parishioners who recently gave feedback to help shape the final Families of Parishes, thank you. I am deeply grateful to you.

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).

God the Father has offered fulfillment to us through His Son, Jesus Christ. Jesus has come so that we might have life in abundance (cf. Jn. 10:10). Advent is when we prepare to welcome Him into our hearts.

May the peace, joy, and fullness of life that only Christ can bring be yours this Advent and Christmas!

S E E K T H E L O R D / D E CE MBE R 2021 | 5

BUSCA AL SEÑOR ARZOBISPO DENNIS M. SCHNURR

Uno de nuestros grandes tesoros como Católicos es el ritmo del calendario de la Iglesia en el que el mensaje esperanzador del gran amor de Dios por nosotros se renueva cada año de una manera familiar pero siempre nueva. Un año nuevo de la Iglesia acaba de comenzar con el primer domingo de Adviento, el 28 de noviembre.

El Adviento es un período gozoso de espera y preparación para el nacimiento de Cristo. En el Evangelio de este año para el segundo domingo de Adviento, San Lucas cita al profeta Isaías: “Preparen el camino del Señor, enderecen sus senderos” (Lc. 3:4; cf. Is. 40:3).

El Adviento es un tiempo de esperanza precisamente porque mira hacia adelante. Las primeras lecturas de las liturgias dominicales para el Adviento presentan profetas del Antiguo Testamento que pronostican un Mesías, que sabemos que es Jesús. Pero el Adviento no se trata sólo de esperar la Natividad de nuestro Señor. El Catecismo de la Iglesia Católica dice: “Al celebrar anualmente la liturgia de Adviento, la Iglesia actualiza esta espera del Mesías: participando en la larga preparación de la primera venida del Salvador, los fieles renuevan el deseo ardiente de su segunda Venida” (CIC 524).

El Adviento nos recuerda que Dios cumple sus promesas ahora, como lo hizo en el pasado y como lo hará en el futuro. Como nos asegura San Pablo, “la esperanza no defrauda” (Rom. 5:5). Las velas de Adviento que encendemos en cada uno de los cuatro domingos antes de Navidad nos recuerdan que Cristo, a quien estamos esperando, es la verdadera luz y esperanza del mundo.

Cuando irradiamos a Cristo, compartimos esa luz y llevamos esa esperanza a los demás.

Cristo está vivo y presente en su Iglesia, que todavía está encargada de hacer discípulos de todas las naciones. Esta es nuestra sagrada misión. Sin embargo, eso no significa que podamos actuar como si nada hubiera cambiado en las últimas décadas. Sería irresponsable hacerlo, porque

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la Iglesia se mantiene al corriente durante el transcurso del tiempo.

Testigos alegres quienes también debemos ser buenos administradores, estamos llamados a hacer el mejor uso de todos los recursos de nuestra Iglesia local. Por lo tanto, es apropiado preguntarse, ¿están todos nuestros recursos – humanos, físicos y financieros – debidamente enfocados para el discipulado misionero? ¿Están trabajando efectivamente para atraer continuamente a los feligreses y atraer a nuevos miembros a una relación más íntima con Jesús? ¿O están consumidos por los esfuerzos para mantener el statu quo y se extienden muy poco para ser realmente efectivos?

El proceso de planificación pastoral de Faros de Luz (Beacons of Light) está diseñado para abordar exactamente estas preguntas. Estoy convencido de que esta iniciativa, nacida con gran esperanza, nos permitirá formar parroquias más fuertes, centradas en la Eucaristía, que irradien el amor de Cristo y la alegría del Evangelio. Gracias a los miles de feligreses que recientemente dieron su opinión para ayudar a dar forma final a las Familias de Parroquias. Les estoy profundamente agradecido.

El Catecismo de la Iglesia Católica nos recuerda: “El deseo de Dios está inscrito en el corazón del hombre, porque el hombre ha sido creado por Dios y para Dios; y Dios no cesa de atraer al hombre hacia sí, y sólo en Dios encontrará el hombre la verdad y la dicha que no cesa de buscar” (CIC 27). Dios Padre nos ha ofrecido plenitud a través de Su Hijo, Jesucristo. Jesús ha venido para que tengamos vida en abundancia (cf. Jn. 10:10).

El Adviento es cuando nos preparamos para darle la bienvenida en nuestros corazones. ¡Que la paz, la alegría y la plenitud de la vida que sólo Cristo puede traer sean para ustedes este Adviento y Navidad!

QUE ST IO N O F F A IT H

O, WHAT? I heard that during Advent’s final days the “O Antiphons” are prayed as part of Evening Prayer. What are these antiphons?

As Catholics go through the liturgical year, no day is the same as another. As you mention in your question, one example of this variation is the “O Antiphons,” which are prayed as part of Evening Prayer between Dec. 17 and 23. These prayers honor Jesus through a series of Biblical titles and express hopeful expectation for the Messiah’s coming.

THE LITURGY OF THE HOURS

The O Antiphons are among the Church’s liturgical traditions that have developed throughout history, along with the Liturgy of the Hours, which are specific prayers (including psalms and Scripture readings) offered during the day (morning, mid-day, evening, and night). While these prayers originated among monks and nuns, priests and deacons must pray them, but they are recommended as a form of prayer for everyone.

As part of Evening Prayer, the Church prays the Magnificat, Mary’s hymn of praise to God when she visited her cousin Elizabeth (“My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord….” in Luke 1:46–55). When the Magnificat is prayed, an antiphon (a short Scripture verse) is said before and after. In the days leading to Christmas, the O Antiphons (which all begin with “O” followed by a title for Jesus) are the short verses recited before and after the Magnificat.

TITLES FOR JESUS

The titles or names for Christ are not always explicit in the Scriptures. Some verses – like those from the Prophet Isaiah – are suggestive of Jesus, and early Christians applied them to Christ. Taken together, these varied titles provide a theology of the Incarnation, offering insight into the Messiah.

The titles that form the O Antiphons are drawn from Isaiah.

The first one, O Wisdom, is prayed on Dec. 17 and is derived from Isaiah 11:2: “The spirit of the Lord shall rest upon him: a spirit of wisdom and of understanding.” For Dec. 18, the antiphon is O Adonai (O Lord), taken from Isaiah 33:22: “The Lord is our king.”

On Dec. 19, Jesus’ title, O Root of Jesse, is referenced in Isaiah 11:1: “A shoot shall sprout from the stump of Jesse.” O Key of David follows and points to Jesus’ authority (from Isaiah 22:22), and on Dec. 21, the antiphon, O Radiant Dawn, refers to Jesus as the light of the world (Isaiah 9:1).

O King of the Nations is recited on Dec. 22 from Isaiah 2:4: “He shall judge between the nations, and set terms for many peoples.” Finally, on Dec. 23, we pray O Emmanuel (meaning “God is with us”), the ultimate revelation of the incarnate God, as in Isaiah 7:14: “Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign; the young woman, pregnant and about to bear a son, shall name him Emmanuel.”

MEANING OF THE ANTIPHONS

The Church has prayed the O Antiphons, composed by an unknown author, since the sixth century. In Latin the titles for Jesus form an acrostic that when spelled backward is “Ero cras” (meaning, “Tomorrow, I come”), reminiscent of the popular hymn, “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel,” which is based on the antiphons.

Praying these verses prepares for the Incarnation’s celebration, marking with increased intensity the seven days leading to Christmas Eve. In a particular way they give voice to the Church’s desire to see the Messiah: O Come, Lord Jesus!

FATHER DAVID ENDRES

is associate professor of Church history and historical theology at Mount St. Mary’s Seminary & School of Theology.

Q U E S T IO N O F F A IT H / D E CE MBE R 2021 | 7

BY DOMINICK ALBANO

BRI NGIN G YOUR FAM ILY OF PA R IS H ES TOGET HE R Every family has at least a little bit of dysfunction. As soon as you read that, you probably thought of that one family member who just can’t seem to get along with the rest, or that one topic you never mention at the family Christmas party.

2. FORGIVE

That’s alright. Healthy human relationships necessarily include a little conflict; a little dysfunction. But there are ways we can foster healthy, loving relationships within our families, and ways we can make them worse. Our new Families of Parishes will have the same growing pains. Just as we help our human families thrive or add to the dysfunction, there are ways to help our Families of Parishes become better together and there are actions to avoid.

Forgiveness isn’t easy. We can’t cover forgiveness in depth here, but there is one act that helps: find something to love about the person you need to forgive. Think about it. It’s easier to forgive your child than that bully in high school. Why? Because you love your child.

Three acts you can do to help your Family of Parishes thrive: 1. ALWAYS ASSUME THE BEST

Assuming the best about people is a Christian virtue. Assuming good intentions makes life better. For example, when someone cuts you off in traffic, you can assume that person is an unsafe jerk, feel a little road rage and be annoyed for the next few hours, or assume he or she either didn’t see you or has an emergency, then pray for their safety and continue your day with no lasting effects. That’s the power of assuming the best.

Assume the best about your new Family of Parishes. Give them the benefit of the doubt. Believe in the good. This is a critical element of healthy relationships and will help your Family of Parishes thrive in the upcoming months!

8 | THE C ATHOLIC TELE GRAPH

Past wounds poison future relationships – plain and simple. If you can’t forgive, you can’t heal, and if you can’t heal, you can’t be healthy.

If you struggle to forgive a parish in your new Family of Parishes, find something to love about it. In fact, find something to love about each parish in your new Family of Parishes. Maybe it’s the beauty of their building, the strength of their school, or a wonderful event they host.

3. BE KIND, NOT NICE

What’s the difference between being kind and being nice?

Being kind is for the good of the other person, being nice is for yourself. Kindness requires a greater love for the other.

We can be “nice” for selfish motivations. It’s kind to subtly inform a person about the broccoli stuck in their teeth. It’s “nice” to ignore it and not say anything because that might be awkward, for them and for you, but it doesn’t save them from further embarrassment. Be kind to your new Family of Parishes.

And now, three things to avoid if you want your new Family of Parishes to thrive.

1. DON’T KEEP SCORE

Keeping score is a relationship killer. It’s bad for marriages, friendships, working environments and parishes.

It is easy to fall into this unhealthy competition within your new Family of Parishes. We have more parishioners! We have more money! We have a bigger school! Our church is more beautiful! Our building needs less maintenance! Keeping score is never productive or positive. When you catch yourself – or someone else – entering into a score-keeping mentality, watch out! This is number one to avoid if you want a thriving Family of Parishes.

2. DON’T BRAG

There is a subtle difference between being proud and bragging. Bragging is competitive and seeks to say, “I’m better than you because…”.

Ultimately, bragging is a sign of insecurity, a need to recognize your own good because you feel no one else will.

Praying the Litany of Humility is a great tool to avoid bragging. As you join with your Family of Parishes, avoid bragging and seek a habit of humility.

3. DON’T HOLD ONTO OLD WAYS OF DOING THINGS

Early in our marriage, my wife got one of my favorite recipes from my mother and made it for dinner. She asked what I thought and I made the mistake of recounting how my mom made it differently. I’ll bet you can guess how great that went over.

Never allow yourself to utter the words, “This is how we have always done it.” You can’t stop the changes that will come with forming your new Family of Parishes. Like the necessary changes that come with a new marriage or child, life will be different; there’s simply no getting around it.

Holding onto the past doesn’t help you move into the bright and hopeful future God has planned for you.

Being open means you’re hopeful! Take God’s words from Jeremiah 29:11 to heart: “For I know well the plans I have in mind for you… plans for your welfare and not for woe, so as to give you a future of hope.”

THE MOST IMPORTANT THING

There is one more important way to help your Family of Parishes thrive: pray. Prayer is real, powerful and efficacious.

Remember to pray for your new Family of Parishes and, through that prayer, trust that God’s will is being done!

We wish you a merry and blessed Christmas season!

Thank you for your support of our missions and ministries this year. Our work is made possible through generous donors like you. May the spirit of the newborn Jesus bless you throughout this holy season and through the year.

To make a Christmas offering, visit Franciscan.org or call 513-721-4700.

The Franciscan Friars, Province of St. John the Baptist 1615 Vine St., Ste 1 • Cincinnati, OH 45202 Franciscan.org • 513-721-4700, ext. 3219 /Franciscanfriars

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B E A CO N S O F L IG H T / D E CE MBE R 2021 | 9

A PRI ES T’S P E RSPE CT IV E : B E A CO NS O F LIGH T

SYNODALITY IN THE CHURCH AND OF THE CHURCH In this series, we have attempted to ground our understanding of the Beacons of Light initiative in the Church as the Family of God. As the Family of God, we journey together in a synodal way, imitating the walking together of the Trinity. This “walking together” requires walking also with Christ, to whom we unite ourselves in the Eucharist. The whole Church is guided also by the Holy Spirit, who calls us together and leads us along our journey. It was the Spirit who overshadowed Mary at the conception of Jesus and who descended upon the Apostles when they were in prayer with Mary at Pentecost.

Trusting in the power of Christ and His Spirit and taking confidence in the Virgin Mary, the People of God in the Archdiocese of Cincinnati prepare for the journey that lies ahead. In speaking of the Church as a family that journeys together, we can speak of synodality in the Church and of the Church.

SYNODALITY IN THE CHURCH

Synodality in the Church refers to the divine life in which members of the Church share in the synodality of the Trinity.

This sharing happens in a variety of ways, most prominently through the liturgy and sacraments, in which the whole People of God journey toward the heavenly Jerusalem, with Church members exercising their diverse charisms and ministries. Ecclesial synodality takes on flesh in institutions (diocesan synods, parish finance councils, pastoral councils, etc.) when those structures are animated by the Risen Lord 1 0 | THE CATHOLIC TELE GRAPH

and attentive to what the Spirit says.

These “institutions” are extremely important in Beacons of Light as “Families of Parishes” develop pastoral plans.

Difficult decisions will need to be made about how to work together, finances, schools and facilities. The focus cannot be on clinging to the past or holding on to power; rather, the focus must be on the mission of evangelization and discovering what the Risen Lord and the Spirit have prepared.

THE RELATIONSHIP OF THE DISCIPLES TO GOD

Synodality in the Church is also related to koinonia, which refers to the new relationship that disciples have with God and one another. The Church’s communion is revealed as the Trinity’s initiative, rather than a result of the will of people who associate for reasons of convenience, common interests or business.

Koinonia refers to a spiritual union and to a visibly operating concordance of hearts and minds (Acts 2:42), beginning with baptism through which one is incorporated into the life of Christ and the Church, forming a societas. Koinonia is an unconditional gift from God who desires that all share in His Son’s life and share solidarity with one another; it is also a spiritual work involving sharing in the suffering and consolation of others (cf. Rom. 12:13; 2 Cor. 1:5-7; Phil.

3:10; 4:14) and performing concrete works of charity (cf.

Rom. 15:26; 2 Cor. 8:4; 9:13; Gal. 2:9; Phil. 1:5; Phil. 6).

Journeying together as a family is one of the most visible and meaningful forms of ecclesial communion, involving many modes of participation in the Church. If communion is a sharing in the Church’s faith and mission, this journeying is the sign and fulfillment of that communion.

Gentium, 1). It describes the Church’s journey with all of humanity in history.

This way of being is properly understood not as an expression of power but as a representatio ecclesiae, whose authority comes from Christ for the service of Of course, there will be resistance from humanity. What type of face do we as a those unwilling to, or fearful of, change.

Church want to show forth? Can we be Patience is necessary. Each person a Samaritan Church? Precisely because THE CHURCH’S COMMUNION and each parish within a Family must the Archdiocese of Cincinnati offers so IS REVEALED AS THE TRINITY’S ask: Am I a bridge to unity within the many services through schools, hospitals, INITIATIVE, RATHER THAN A parish or am I a barrier? Are we truly Catholic Charities and the like to so many RESULT OF THE WILL OF PEOPLE searching for the way forward or serving non-Catholics, we must be conscious of as obstructions? How are we becoming our responsibility toward those in the WHO ASSOCIATE FOR REASONS an evangelizing community? wider community whom we serve. A OF CONVENIENCE, COMMON focus on service rather than power can help INTERESTS OR BUSINESS. SYNODALITY OF THE CHURCH us discern the way forward in promoting the common good and bringing the joy of In our journey, the synodality of the Church refers to the the Gospel to those around us.

Church that is like a “sacrament or sign and instrument both of a very close-knit union with God and of the unity of the whole human race” and that “desires now to unfold more fully to the faithful of the Church and to the whole world its own inner nature and universal mission” (Lumen

FATHER EARL K. FERNANDES

is the pastor of St. Ignatius of Loyola Church in Cincinnati and holds a doctorate in moral theology from the Alphonsian Academy in Rome.

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BY DEACON JOHN HOMOELLE

document and the archbishop will review it. It will be sent to the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) at the beginning of April 2022, and they will send a consolidated report of all the U.S. diocesan learnings to Rome.

THE SYNOD ON SYNODALITY’S GOAL & PURPOSE

THEMES THAT WILL BE DISCUSSED

In last month’s Catholic Telegraph, Father Earl Fernandes wrote about synodality as it pertains to Beacons of Light. Synodality means walking together as a community on the pilgrim journey that we live on earth. By virtue of our baptism, we are all called to the prophetic mission of spreading the gospel message. This responsibility does not lie strictly with the clergy, but with all the People of God guided by the Holy Spirit. By walking together, synodally, we can all contribute to realizing the Mission of the Church which is to evangelize all so that the salvation of souls is achieved through our Lord, Jesus Christ.

The Holy Father seeks input on the following themes: 1. Listening – How is God speaking to us through voices we sometimes ignore?

2. Speaking out – What enables or hinders speaking up courageously, candidly and responsibly in our local Church and society?

3. Celebration – How do prayer and liturgical celebrations inspire and guide our common life and mission in our community?

4. Sharing Responsibility – How is every baptized person called to participate in the Mission of the Church?

5. Dialogue – To what extent do diverse peoples in our community come together for dialogue?

6. Ecumenism – What relationship does our Church community have with members of other Christian traditions?

7. Authority – How does our Church community identify the goals to be pursued?

8. Discerning – What methods and processes do we use in the Church in decision making?

9. Forming Ourselves – How does our Church community form people to be more capable of “walking together”?

Synods are meetings called by the Pope to seek input on a specific issue. This synod’s goal is to discern how we can become a Church where all members walk together to achieve her Mission. The synod’s official title reflects this: “For a Synodal Church: Communion, Participation, Mission.”

WHAT WILL HAPPEN IN THIS ARCHDIOCESE?

Preparing for a synod takes time, and this synod is no exception – it will be held in 2023. The Holy Father asked that before that time every diocese in the world gather together the People of God to discuss and discern how we can be a more synodal Church.

In our archdiocese, two coordinators from each deanery will seek out, gather and consolidate thoughts and concerns from everyone, including the elderly, the young, the poor, disabled, the migrant and immigrant whether they are lay faithful, clergy, members of religious orders, those who have lost their faith – all the People of God! The coordinators will facilitate town hall meetings in each deanery during January and February, invoking the guidance of the Holy Spirit, so that we journey together to discern God’s will.

Once meetings conclude, coordinators will provide discussion summaries to Deacon John Homoelle, this archdiocese’s point person. He will distill all the deaneries’ input into one 1 2 | THE CATHOLIC TE LEGRAPH

WANT TO LEARN MORE?

Two documents about the synod provide more detail and can be found on the Synod 2021-2023 website (www.synod.va): The Vademecum (guidelines) for the Synod and the Preparatory Document (an abridged version of the Vademecum).

Although the Catholic Church’s roots in synodality trace back to the time of Peter and Paul, the Church has grown greatly since then. The Holy Father asks us to journey with him on a global basis to reignite that synodality with the Holy Spirit’s fire and input from all God’s people.

Want to be involved?

Send your name, contact information, parish, and how you want to be involved to jhomoelle@catholicaoc.com.

A Bicentennial History of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati illuminates the

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Father David J. Endres, author, is the Associate Professor of Church History and Historical Theology at Mount St. Mary’s Seminary & School of Theology.

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S Y N O D O N S Y N O DA L IT Y / D E CE MBE R 2021 | 13

PRAYING THROUGH ADVENT An Excerpt From Our Free Ultimate Guide to Advent

BY DOMINICK ALBANO

Everyone wants to have an unforgettable Advent – an Advent filled with joy, family, togetherness and memories that will last a lifetime.

Each year, The Catholic Telegraph publishes The Ultimate Guide to Advent to help you experience the liturgical season with joy and create lasting memories. Filled with recipes, Advent activity ideas, important dates, prayer opportunities and more, it’s beautiful, fun, interactive and free!

The following excerpt is from the introduction for one of this year’s articles. For your free guide, visit www.thecatholictelegraph.com or scan the QR code below and you’ll receive it in your email inbox.

9 DAYS TO PRAY THROUGH ADVENT One of the best parts of Advent has to be the joy. We’re talking Fiona in a Santa costume and stuffed inside a Christmas stocking level of joy. But that joy doesn’t really come from the songs, cookies, presents and decorations (though we love them). It comes from Jesus.

The world is transformed during Advent. For a whole month people are kinder, more generous and more hopeful. And many times they don’t even know why.

Sure, “it’s Christmas-time,” but that’s not the source.

Prayer is a great way to encounter the Source of joy in the Advent season, and a Novena is a great way to

structure your prayer - or your family’s prayer - when focusing your Advent season on Jesus.

Don’t worry if you’ve never prayed a Novena before.

Each day for nine days, you read a brief scripture passage from the Advent Guide, reflect on a couple questions and close with a short prayer.

Find a little time, each day, to read the prayers in our Advent Guide. If you can, it’s best to schedule the same time each day, for example, right after dinner. Try to pray each day for nine consecutive days. (If you miss a day, don’t worry about it, and don’t quit! Just pick up where you left off and continue an extra day.)

GET YOUR FREE GUIDE! Scan the QR code to get The Ultimate Guide to Advent and read the full Advent Novena article, along with the daily scripture, reflection questions, and prayers for each of the nine days!

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CATHOL I C AT H O ME

WAITING WITH HOPE I traveled to Iceland in August. After years of wishing, planning and saving, I was at last on board a 757 headed east to Reykjavik, to start a six-day solo trip across the Icelandic south coast.

His people, making covenants then forgiving them every time they turn away from Him. Recalling God’s faithfulness, despite the long wait the Israelites could rightfully hope for the promised Messiah.

During my years of preparation, the trip became a beacon of hope. When overwhelmed or tired, I looked at photos and maps of places I planned to visit and, even though I was stuck in a waiting period, I knew it was only a matter of time before my plans were realized.

Before Jesus, thousands waited their entire lives never knowing when He would come.

So consider the simultaneous relief, thrill and joy that Jesus’ coming offers, both at His birth and now; because the Incarnation isn’t a onetime event, but the start of something that never ends – an open door that never shuts.

You’ve waited, too. For your wedding. For a baby to be born. To move into a new home.

Or maybe for the slow-roast of ribs.

How is this relevant now? Despite the uncertainties and pains of life, we can hope in the Lord. We can be confident that He will handle everything we entrust to Him as He continuously works for our benefit.

Psalm 143 reads “I muse on what your hand has wrought.” This verse encourages me to look back at how God upheld me through high-risk pregnancies, trials in our marriage and fluctuating faith within my soul, from these build hope that He will do the same tomorrow, come what may. My husband says “God hasn’t abandoned us so far and He’s not going to start now.”

Whatever it is, we have experienced anticipation for a certain event that calls for heroic patience. While painstaking, we catch glimpses of the coming joy, like feeling a baby kicking in utero.

Consider the waiting you’ve endured that challenged your patience, or even your faith.

It’s this anticipation that the whole world endured, not just for nine months or a few years, but for millennia. In Genesis 3:15, the promise of a Savior came just after Adam and Eve’s sin broke the harmony between God and humanity. Generations held their breath for the One Who would restore our relationship with our Creator to its state before the darkness of sin.

It’s hard to comprehend waiting being built into a culture, as happened with the Israelites; and I can’t conceive how difficult it was to stay hopeful for so very long.

Father Mike Schmitz says that hope is “trust in another, extended into the future.”

Founded on the consistency of another’s behavior, it’s the certainty that the same behavior will continue. For the world fallen from that lovely relationship in the Garden, hope draws our attention to God’s faithfulness. Again and again, He pursues

Let yourself be reminded of God’s faithfulness and consistency this Christmas as we rejoice over the ultimate promise fulfilled. When man broke his relationship with God, the Lord promised a Savior, then delivered. Learn to recognize His work by musing on what His hands have wrought in your own life, both by reconciling yourself to Him in Confession and receiving His life in Holy Communion.

Go see how Jesus keeps His word.

The thrill of hope, the weary soul rejoices For yonder breaks a new a glorious morn!

KATIE SCIBA

is a national speaker and Catholic Press Award-winning columnist. Katie and her husband, Andrew, have been married for 14 years and are blessed with six children.

CA T H O L IC A T H O M E / D E CE M BE R 2021 | 15

Christmas

Caretakers Faithful Catholics at St. John Parish in Maria Stein Transform the Sanctuary Each Advent

BY MATT HESS

Every year church sanctuaries around the world mirror our hearts as they prepare to receive the newborn King. Red poinsettias, flickering candles and the smell of fresh evergreen are reminders of the joyous season.

To make that possible, many parishes have a dedicated group of sacristans and decorators who donate their time to make Christmas liturgies special. This is certainly the case at St. John Church in Maria Stein.

Located in the northern archdiocese, the parish highlights the Advent and Christmas seasons in the German tradition with a large, mountainous nativity scene that covers an entire side altar. The sanctuary is highlighted with evergreen trees, yards of lighted garland and oversized white and red poinsettias.

A sacristan at St. John’s for more than 20 years, Janet Heitkamp knows the church inside and out, having prepared for countless liturgies and sacramental celebrations. Her husband, Ted, said, “Our car doesn’t know how to drive past the church, it always wants to turn in!” He and other parishioners have assisted her through the years. For Christmas and Easter, Heitkamp leads the group who places and waters the fresh flowers.

Altar garlands are arranged by a team of volunteers headed by Jared and Caroline Ranly. They took on this task after it was passed around the Men’s Sodality. The couple joked that they hope the same parishioners remember how it was done from year to year. Hanging the lighted garlands, which accentuate the ornately carved altars, is more difficult than it appears. There is the hazard of the extension ladder and popping breakers when too many light sets are connected. However, when asked what the most 1 6 | THE CATHOLIC TELE GRAPH

difficult task is, Jared promptly replied, “The wreath at the very top!” It hangs high above St. John’s, just below a small wooden cross.

The Maria Stein parish’s centerpiece decoration is the nativity scene. The figures are so old, no one quite knows the origin of them, but a local painter and parishioner, Jackie Arling, returned them to their original glory in 2015. Dale and Lynn Homan organize the small army of volunteers who set up the creche. While it has the usual stable, their display also includes mountains above for shepherds and a forest of illuminated pine trees. The top of the side altar is just visible from behind the Star of Bethlehem.

Dale recounted the nativity display’s origin. He first helped with the nativity scene in 1986, and remembers the volunteers decided the paper-mâché cave had seen better days. Parishioner Clete Heitbrink offered to construct something out of wood for the parish and built it over the summer, however, he didn’t see the display in its full glory, passing away before Christmas.

Denny Mescher, who coordinated the display set up before Dale, had a plaque affixed to the stable commemorating Heitbrink’s devotion to St. John’s nativity.

When asked to name their favorite piece, many mention the bright colors and intricate details of the magi. Dale shared that his favorite piece is the townsman who looks through the stable window, “It’s like he was perfectly made to be placed right there!”

For the volunteers who decorate St. John’s, this annual time together has helped build community and deepen their celebration of Christmas. It has helped Jarred and Caroline “embrace the spirit of the Christmas season – Jesus the light of the world.”

Reflecting on her work as sacristan, Heitkamp knows it’s the people who made the position fulfilling. “It always amazes me how many visitors come into church, both near and far…It’s fun to hear their stories and often it makes me realize just how much I take for granted,” Heitkamp said.

While many parishes don’t They have shall decorations to St.Emmanuel, John call his name Church’s scale, each sanctuary has great meaning to us. We God with us. give thanks for the staff and volunteers who assemble every detail in our parishes for Christmas. The beauty of our churches during this season helps draw everyone together, reminding us that we are family, coming to praise Emmanuel.

Christmas at Historic St. Rose MASS TIMES Christmas Eve: 3 p.m., 5 p.m., 7 p.m., 10 p.m.

Christmas Day: 8:30 a.m., 10:30 a.m., 12 p.m.

(No 7 p.m. Mass)

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Peace and Joy! Come see the star

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A D V E N T & CH R IS T M A S / D E CE M BE R 2021 | 17

A CLO SE R LO O K

GENEROSITY, GRATITUDE & BREAKING THE FAVOR BANK In the U.S., we often refer to the time frame spanning Thanksgiving to New Year’s Day as “the holidays.” In reference to Thanksgiving and Christmas, it is indeed appropriate to think of the two holidays as joined by a common leitmotif of giving and receiving. Thanksgiving is, obviously, the day we set aside to give thanks for our abundant blessings; and Christmas is the day that Christians celebrate the greatest of those blessings: the gift of Christ to redeem humankind.

The two holidays bookend a season of generosity and gratitude. But these two virtues are sometimes difficult to understand, and even more difficult to practice. For that reason, some find the holiday season characterized by stress and anxiety rather than by peace and joy. At the heart of this problem is our seemingly innate sense that every human interaction is an economic transaction, wherein a gift becomes one half of a mutual trade for another good of equal value. We have an impulse to think of a gift not as a “gratuitous” act of generosity, but rather the initiation of a commercial exchange. A gift creates a debt, which must be reimbursed by a reciprocal gift to the benefactor. And we mistakenly think that the felt obligation to reciprocate is an act of gratitude. Often, it is exactly the opposite: an expression of ingratitude, or at best the manifestation of our struggle to be grateful people.

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This gives rise to an ironic tension in which we have difficulty practicing gratitude even while thinking (correctly) that ingratitude is among the worst of human vices. Typically, we see ingratitude as a failure to show appropriate thankfulness for a gift or kindness, such as not sending the thank you card or otherwise neglecting to express appreciation to his benefactor. Of course, this kind of ingratitude meets almost universal disapproval. But ingratitude is not expressed solely by indifference to a gift or failure to acknowledge the benefactor’s generosity. It can also take the form of failing to acknowledge that the gift is given without expectation of return payment.

THE FAVOR BANK

In his 1987 novel, The Bonfire of the Vanities, Tom Wolfe famously coined the concept of the “favor bank,” which was a complex system of making deposits of ostensible favors among businessmen and attorneys with the expectation of making withdrawals at some future date. Thus, the “favor” was not a genuine kindness, but rather an interest-bearing investment on which demand could be made at any time.

Sometimes this is how we think of Christmas giving.

If we feel not only an obligation to express thankfulness for a gift, but also the impulse to give in return, we may be expressing this other kind of ingratitude. We assume

that the person is acting not out of heartfelt munificence, but rather out of calculating self-interest. We consider his gift a deposit in the favor bank with the expectation of a future withdrawal. Our felt need to reciprocate becomes an implied assertion that the “gift” actually creates a debt, and the giver expects recompense. This not only rejects the giver’s gratuitous kindness, it implicitly denies her moral agency as one who is capable of authentic generosity, without expectation of anything in return.

Sometimes we fear that gifts give the donor power over us, which we resist by “repaying” the gift – making things even. From the other side of the balance sheet, some people do indeed give “gifts” expecting an immediate return; or to create a debt; or to exert emotional or psychological control over the recipient. But these are not really gifts. Rather, exhibiting the same reduction of

If we feel not only an obligation to express thankfulness for a gift but also the impulse to give in return, we may be expressing this other kind of ingratitude.

all human relationships to mutually interested economic transactions, they are deposits in the “favor bank.”

Whether we give in anticipation of a reciprocal gift or receive with the felt obligation for repayment, we fail to act virtuously.

We can begin to overcome the tendency to see all human interactions as nothing more than commercial transactions – an endless series of debts and repayments – by developing the twin virtues of generosity and gratitude.

And by gaining these virtues, we can take sincere joy this “holiday season” both in giving generously and receiving gratefully.

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.

A CL O S E R L O O K / D E CE M BE R 2021 | 19

Hezekiah Bezy, Matthew Galbreath, Mara Flood, Emma Keykens

Marching Into the Future Growing Band Program at Lehman High School

BY SUSIE BERGMAN

Embarking on a new career often brings challenges, but Kaitie Welch never imagined doing so on the cusp of a global pandemic. Hired June 2020 by Lehman Catholic High School in Sidney, she began her job as band director with a marching band of only 12 active members and a concert band of only eight.

“When I first started, there was so much uncertainty for the students that we just spent a lot of time getting to know each other,” said Welch.

She graduated from Miamisburg High School, worked in Cincinnati Public Schools, and now resides in Middletown. Her fiancé, the band director for La Salle High School in Cincinnati, helped her decide to move.

“When the ensemble shrank in size, they stopped participating in competitions. But now the group has doubled in size and we brought back the color guard, so I really wanted to introduce this to the Welch students,” said Welch.

“

The pride displays for her school, students and the ever-evolving music program is magnetic.

“When I took the position at Lehman, I was still living in Cincinnati and making the long drive,” Welch said. “Fall is a crazy time of year for marching band, so if we wanted to have dinner together through the week, there had to be a compromise.”

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While she admits the drive is still long, Welch enjoys the time it provides to plan and prepare for the day. This includes preparing students for competitions, which restored the school’s participation that ended in 2016.

Under her leadership, the students practice twice a week, perform at Friday evening home football games and attend Saturday competitions. They invested in new uniforms, made by the Daytonlocal company Fred J. Miller Inc., that give them a new sense of pride, in part, because they raised the nearly $15,000 needed by themselves through a fundraiser. Welch attributed its success to the students’ determination and community’s amazing response.

To honor the community, the alumni and 50-year music

history at Lehman High School, they chose the competition theme this year of “Something Blue.” It’s a nod to the school colors – yellow and blue. Songs include “Blue Skies” by Ella Fitzgerald, “I Guess That’s Why They Call It the Blues” by Elton John and “Mr. Blue Sky” by Electric Light Orchestra.

The complete show and uniforms premiered at this year’s homecoming football game.

“My main goal is to allow students who participate in other activities or sports, who maybe don’t have the time to commit to marching band, the opportunity to participate in band as a class. This would involve growing our concert band to 30 students and our marching band to 35 or more; introducing them to new experiences, friendships and encouraging their music development.”

Welch was most excited about the students’ recent new experience, “On October 16, the ensemble travelled to THE Ohio State University Buckeye Invitational and performed on the famous Block O! It was an honor to be chosen and an experience that definitely produced a few band director tears.”

Additionally the Lehman Band won third place in Class C and Best Auxiliary (color guard) in the Kettering Classic Invitational and participated in the Lebanon MSBA Competition.

The pride Welch displays for her school, students and the ever-evolving music program is magnetic.

She admits that winning competitions and improving ratings is always an objective, but her biggest goal is inclusivity.

Venite Adoremus! | Come Let Us Adore Him.

(Carols begin 1/2 hour befo

Holy Family Catholic Church

Traditional Latin Christmas Mass 140 S Findlay St. • Dayton

12 a.m. (Midnight) High Mass 8 a.m. Low Mass 10:30 a.m. High Mass (Carols begin 1/2 hour before High Masses)

H O P E / D E CE M BE R 2021 | 21

SKILLS FOR LIFE St. Mary’s School Enriches the Lives of Children with Autism

BY SUSIE BERGMAN

It’s been two years since my initial visit to Holy Rosary School in St. Mary’s, the only school between Lima and Dayton that has an Academic and Behavioral Learning Enrichment (ABLE) environment that is fully integrated into standardized learning classrooms.

It was initially launched by Principal Lori Krugh when the only company providing these services through the Ohio Autism Scholarship, the independent Board-Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBA), relocated out of state. Krugh’s passion for integrated learning led to the program’s expansion.

“Along with our four ‘Bigs,’” Krugh said, “we now have four ‘Littles’!” The four children lovingly referred to as “Littles” are in grades Kindergarten through fourth, and the four “Bigs” are in grades fifth through seventh. Through grants from the local Knights of Columbus and other Ohio charities, Krugh secured funds to provide household equipment for the new Life Skills program. Designed for older students, it encourages personal responsibility by developing those skills needed for independent living. This includes loading and unloading the dishwasher, washing towels for the cafeteria and handling money.

Krugh said that her staff all selflessly agreed that the, now former, teacher’s lounge would be a good space for the program’s new Life Skills room. Each morning, the teachers submit coffee orders that ABLE students fulfill, meticulously filling coffee cups, reading orders for sugar and cream, then delivering each order with a cart. Teachers pay the ABLE 2 2 | THE CATHOLIC TELE GRAPH

students, who practice math skills to make change. They also deliver a hot cup of joe to Father Alexander Witt in the parish offices next to the school.

Krugh strongly encourages the ABLE students’ interaction with the rest of the student body, which fosters positive experiences for everyone. “Harrison sits with his peers at lunch. And Junior High students stop in the Life Skills room to purchase snacks.”

The focus in the “Littles” room is primarily on behavioral skills. Teacher Gwen Bergman said many students entering the program have behaviors that impede their academics.

“We meet our kiddos wherever they are,” Bergman said. “We do focus on traditional learning they would be introduced to in kindergarten, but also address speech delays and self-help skills such as potty-training.”

Beyond school staff and students, the Holy Rosary ABLE program’s positive impact is also felt by the community. Krugh and her dedicated staff are expanding their program so that families who would not have access to integrated learning have the opportunity to equip their children with the skills necessary for long-term success. Learn more at: holyrosaryschool.us.

The Life Skills program encourages personal responsibility by developing those skills needed for independent living.

Tidings of Comfort and Joy Through a hearty meal, a warm coat, or a present under the tree – your donation to St. Vincent de Paul helps bring comfort and joy to neighbors in need during this special season.

Give today at SVDPcincinnati.org/give

H O P E / D E CE MBE R 2021 | 23

S E IZ E T HE MO ME NT

HOPING AGAINST ALL HOPE The Bible is full of passages on hope. Paul’s letters alone constantly return to this theme. This is expected since the Bible tells the story about the foundation of our hope – “Christ in you, the hope of glory” (Col. 1:27) – and Paul is the great Apostle of Hope.

While his relevant passages are too numerous to mention them all, here are three popular examples: “If we hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with patience.” (Rom. 8:25); “Since we have such a hope, we are very bold” (2 Cor. 3:12); “We who first hoped in Christ have been destined and appointed to live for the praise of his glory” (Eph. 1:12).

My favorite, though, comes from Paul’s account of Abraham’s life: “He believed, hoping against hope, that he would become ‘the father of many nations,’ according to what was said, ‘Thus shall your descendants be.’” (Rom. 4:18) AGAINST ALL ODDS

Abraham didn’t just hope, he hoped against hope. That’s a peculiar phrase, but it caught on and is now a popular idiom, such as, “I’m hoping against hope that I pass this test,” or “I’m hoping against hope that we find a cure for cancer.”

In common parlance, “hoping against hope” means never giving up, even when the odds are stacked against you or an expected outcome is decidedly unlikely. This certainly describes Abraham. He was 100-years-old and without children when God promised Abraham he would be the father of many nations. A sea of descendants for a centenarian? It doesn’t get more unlikely than that! And yet, Abraham persevered.

By hoping against hope, Abraham became a role model for all Christians. But, there’s still more to draw out of this interesting phrase. After all, how can hope be against hope? And how does that dichotomy somehow come to mean “believing in remote possibilities” or “facing insurmountable odds”?

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HOPE VS. HOPE

The only way to pit hope against hope is if there are two kinds of hope. There are, in fact, two kinds of hope in the Bible. One is the hope from Paul’s letters, the virtue that comes from and is rooted in Jesus. It is the humble expectation that, in Jesus, there are salvation, resurrection and victory over sin and death.

But, there is also a worldly kind of hope, one that is not rooted in faith or in God, what the Bible calls “vain” or “uncertain” hope (see, for example, 2 Macc. 7:34; Ps. 33:17; 1 Tim. 6:17).

Sometimes, we mistakenly cultivate it, too.

By hoping against hope, Abraham is setting the hope that comes from God’s promises above any hope he could have in the world. It’s interesting that, even at 100, this was not easy for him. By conceiving a son through his servant Hagar, his hopes became inverted. But God renewed His promises, and Abraham renewed his hope in them, until the day came when Sarah finally gave birth to Isaac.

As we see from Abraham’s example, it is only by setting hope against hope that we can expect the fulfillment of our deepest desires and persevere through life’s greatest challenges. Hope in anything else will only frustrate and disappoint us, if not outright destroy us.

THE NEXT ABRAHAM

What is your hope rooted in? It’s easy to say that our hope is in Jesus, but is it really? Or is it rooted in money, health, political victory, career success or popularity? Ask Jesus to reveal the false hopes in your life and give you the strength to replace them with Him. That’s the only way that we, like Abraham, can hope against hope and see God’s mighty promises fulfilled.

NICHOLAS HARDESTY

is the associate director of Adult Evangelization and RCIA for the Center for the New Evangelization. nhardesty@catholicaoc.org.

The Very Reverend Anthony R. Brausch, President/Rector of The Athenaeum of Ohio/Mount St. Mary’s Seminary, presented Colleen Hanycz, PhD, with a statue of Our Lady of Montserrat. Nearly 500 years ago, St. Ignatius, the founder of the Jesuits, laid down his sword at her feet and turned from being a soldier of war to being a soldier for Christ. Fr. Brausch stated, “In this Ignatian Year, as you see all things new in Christ, may your Catholic faith be strengthened, and may your faith be an inspiration to all whom you meet.” On October 28, Dr. Hanycz was installed as the 35th President of Xavier University, the 6th oldest Catholic university in the country and nationally recognized by U.S. News & World Report.

Welcome President Hanycz.

AL L F OR O N E L IV IN G O U T Y O U R V O CA T IO N / N O V E M BE R 2021 | 25

Beyond the Field St. Antoninus Football Program Makes One Boy’s Dreams Come True

BY ERIN REDER

True sportsmanship goes beyond the actions and play on a field or court. It encompasses respect, graciousness and support for one another. This football season the St. Antoninus (St. A) Bandit division football team and its opponents collaborated in support of one special boy: Braxtin Gruber. Braxtin dreamed of playing football, but due to Dravet Syndrome and Lennox-Gastuat Syndrome, life-long forms of epilepsy that cause many health-related issues, he has been unable to play – until now!

His mother, Katie Gruber, shared that the football coaches from St. Antoninus (where Braxtin’s sister, Addy, attends and his aunt, Emily, teaches first grade) contacted her and her husband, Mark, inviting Braxtin to join their team.

Conversations followed with coaches and the St. A football coordinator to explain the complexity of Braxtin’s diagnosis and how careful he needed to be. All were excited and willing to adapt for those conditions to ensure that Braxtin could participate in the safest way possible. Since then, he’s

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practiced with the team, getting to know his teammates and enjoying the opportunity to be part of something he loves.

“Having Braxtin as part of the football team as a St. A Jaguar creates a good vibe!” said St. A’s Bandit division coach Andy Wagner. “Seeing him with his teammates interacting at practice is pretty cool and really allows you to focus on what is important, which is for these boys to have fun and be a part of a team. It’s made me a better coach, allowing me to step back and see the bigger picture of how that looks.”

On Aug. 21, number 51 suited up to play in his first football game. St. Antoninus coaches explained Braxtin’s unique situation to the opposing team’s coaches, and together they ensured he had the chance to get the ball but not get tackled.

The moment was truly special for coaches, teammates and fans. When Braxtin scored his very first touchdown, not only St. Antoninus fans cheered; both sidelines erupted in support and joy!

“It is an amazing feeling as a teacher of St. Antoninus watching the community support and embrace Braxtin. It fills my heart with so much joy to watch him being included and doing something that he has always dreamed of doing,” said Braxtin’s aunt, Emily.

Coordinating with opposing teams has been effortless, said his parents, as each has been more than willing to get Braxtin involved.

“To see the extent that all of these coaches have gone to help their team understand what needs to happen on the field is remarkable! The sportsmanship has been unbelievable. How often do you see kids from the opposing team congratulate the opposing player for making a touchdown against them?”

Antoninus have afforded Braxtin is beyond words,” said Mark and Katie. “To look at our 8-year-old little boy and see the happiness these people and the community have given him is a dream come true, not just for Braxtin but for his entire family. They have given him a sense of belonging, being part of a team that accepts him and his limitations, and allows him the feeling of being like everyone else.”

When Braxtin scored his very first touchdown, not only St. Antoninus fans cheered; both sidelines erupted in support and joy!

For the boy who has dreams of being an Elder Panther and future NFL player, this opportunity turned those dreams into reality. Since Aug. 21, Braxtin played in multiple games as a team player, even as the quarterback with a chance to throw a touchdown pass. “Watching Braxtin out there scoring touchdowns just makes you happy,” says Wagner, “and by the way, he has the best touchdown celebration on the team!”

“The opportunity that the coaches and coordinator at St.

“I don’t think you can find anybody who isn’t a fan of Braxtin,” adds St. A Bandit coach Scott Sacay. “We love having him on the team and the coaches are thrilled to play a small part in his journey. We are doing what we can to make this year memorable for him and can’t wait to have this big Elder fan run a touchdown in at The Pit and have his name called.”

The Grubers hearts are filled with gratitude for the St. Antoninus community that embraced their son and that reminds us of what is truly important. “Our hope is that by seeing how these coaches and coordinator have made something special happen for our son, others will be encouraged to do the same and pay it forward for someone else. Saying thank you to everyone who has been involved just doesn’t seem like enough. Their kindness has been inspiring and appreciated beyond words.”

H O P E / D E CE MBE R 2021 | 27

Retrouvaille Hope for Troubled Marriages

BY JOHN STEGEMAN

Retrouvaille Hope for Troubled Marriages

BY JOHN STEGEMAN

Twenty-three years after saying “I do,” Gloria and Dan Sprague were staring at the end of their marriage.

“Communication had totally broken down for us so much that we didn’t think it could be restored. We lived in two separate households for 11 months. I filed for divorce. It wasn’t until we went on our Retrouvaille weekend that we got a spark of hope.”

Fifteen years later, the couple volunteers as community coordinators for Retrouvaille of Cincinnati/Tristate, helping other troubled marriages.

Retrouvaille (pronounced retro-vi) is a program to help those in struggling marriages. It was established in Quebec, Canada, in 1977 by Guy and Jeannine Beland who worked as a Worldwide Marriage Encounter presenting couple. They witnessed struggling couples attend their events but need more, so they created their own program to minister to these couples, and it took off. Retrouvaille has since spread to 29 countries and 40 U.S. states, saving countless marriages.

No troubled marriage can be saved in just one weekend, said Gloria Sprague, and the Retrouvaille program recognizes that. Couples attend six follow-up sessions then monthly meetings.

“First we got hope, then we got healing,” Gloria said.

2 8 | THE CATHOLIC TE LEGRAPH

Catholic in origin, Retrouvaille includes a spiritual component, but is open to couples of all faiths or no faith.

Run entirely by volunteers, it is not an official ministry of any diocese, but many endorse it – including the Archdiocese of Cincinnati.

The program’s success rate is tremendous, with 95 percent of participants recommending the program to others and 76 percent of couples still married five years later, according to a 2015 international survey.

“It doesn’t have to be a last-ditch effort,” Gloria said. “It is for when communication has broken down or couples are disengaged, or life has been taken over with kids and jobs and COVID, or whatever has happened in life.”

Three couples and a clergy member present at each Retrouvaille weekend, usually at a hotel or retreat center from Friday evening to Sunday afternoon. In the Cincinnati/Tristate We lived in two separate households for 11 months.

I filed for divorce. It wasn’t until we went on our Retrouvaille weekend that we got a spark of hope.”

–Gloria Sprague

www.StACatholicSchool.org

Rediscover your love!

Has your marriage grown cold and distant?

chapter all involved clergy are priests. Team couples present on various topics, including communication, forgiveness, and trust. Couples adjourn to their rooms after each presentation for private discussion on the topic. There is no group sharing to stay focused on the relationship between husband and wife.

“The couples are there to learn,” Dan said. “And to get hope for their marriage.”

Cincinnati Retrouvaille Weekends:

Weekends include Mass, meals, and an opportunity for confession. The registration fee is $250, and a freewill donation is requested on the weekend, but Retrouvaille coordinators work with those unable to pay to ensure they aren’t turned away. The fee covers the weekend and post-weekend sessions.

Retrouvaille has been helping troubled marriages since 1977. The program is confidential, effective, and can help you find hope and healing!

“That costs a lot less than two divorce attorneys,” Gloria adds. “It’s not just about restoring our marriage. Before our troubles, our big troubles, I would have said we had a good or great marriage. But now we have a new or next level intimacy that we didn’t even know was out there until we went through this program.”

Jan. 7-9 • Apr. 1-3 • Sept. 9-11

HelpOurMarriage.org

HelpOurMarriage.org, the Retrouvaille website, offers the program for marriages in any stage, including those already divorced if both parties are willing to try.

“Only the two of you can save your marriage,” reads the website. “Retrouvaille will teach you a set of skills that, if used properly, will help you get on the right track.”

H O P E / DE CE M BE R 2021 | 29

St. Rose Duchesne

St. Rose Duchesne was born in France during 1769. Educated in a convent, she was drawn to religious life and became a novice when she was 18. When the French Revolution rocked the country, Rose returned to her family home where she nursed prisoners and helped the suffering.

In 1804 she joined a new congregation of sisters called the Society of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Since her childhood, St. Rose felt a deep-seeded calling to serve in the missions and once during adoration she experienced an intense urging to serve in the “New World.”

Sent to the Louisiana territory in 1818 to evangelize French and Native children, she opened the first free school west of the Mississippi River and later founded six more for young women.

St. Rose deeply desired to serve the Native people. A school for the Potawatomi opened in Kansas when she was 72 and, despite her age and health, the mission’s Jesuit head insisted she go. Although only able to stay for one year, her steadfast prayer caused the Native people to name her, Quah-kah-kanum-ad, “Woman-Who-Prays-Always.”

“I feel the same longing for the Rocky Mountain missions and any others like them, that I experienced in France when I first begged to come to America...”

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The Garden Warrior 13-year-old Catholic School Student Ella Buckley Publishes Book

BY KARY ELLEN BERGER

Most 13-year-olds stay busy with schoolwork, after school activities and social life. Ella Buckley, who attends St. James School in White Oak, is doing all of those successfully and has another achievement she can add to her growing list of accomplishments: becoming a published author.

Buckley said she’s loved writing for as long as she can remember. In Spring 2020, when students were sent home for virtual learning, one of her teachers assigned students a “passion project.” Ella picked up a journal and said she began writing in it for fun.

THE CATHOLIC TEL EGRAPH

“

God has given me many opportunities every day, and I pray that everyone will be given the same chances.

“My passion project turned into something more,” Buckley said. “I shared it with my classmates and they supported me fully. Then, I shared it with a few family members and my close friends. Soon, everyone was in love with it. I knew that there had to be some way I could spread that love to everyone.”

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Buckley said that with support from her parents, they selfpublished the book. The Garden Warrior is available on Amazon and, with every purchase, Ella has made a point to give back. Already, she has given back to organizations such as the Book Bus, Joe Bertram Foundation and the St. James Athletic Club.

“Ella understands that she has been blessed and has a responsibility to give back,” her parents, Matt and Audra, said. “Donating a portion of her sales to a variety of organizations will become a theme.”

Without God, Buckley said, this accomplishment would not have been possible. “God has given me many opportunities every day, and I pray that everyone will be given the same chances,” she said. “Not only is God present in my life and through what I do, but He is within each one of us. All of us just need to look deep in our hearts to find Him.”

Her parents added, “We believe Ella spreads God’s love through her writing. This is one of her gifts she shares with others in hope of bringing them joy.”

Ella continues to spread God’s glory through volunteering and involvement in other various activities. She is a lector at St. James the Greater, member of the St. James School Leadership Council Board and player on the U14 White national volleyball team with Tri-State Elite.

With one book under her belt, Buckley doesn’t plan to stop writing anytime soon. She has another book, Landing Among the Stars, in the works for publication in 2022.

Buckley hopes others understand that just because she’s a published author, it doesn’t make her different from her peers.

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“I am a typical girl who loves to write stories, play volleyball, hang out with friends, eat ice cream, watch movies, and be with family – my mom, my dad, my younger brother, Connor, and my super fluffy dog,” she said.

Her parents agreed, “Our hopes for our children are no different from anyone else. We hope for our children to do what they love, live a faith-based life, be productive members of society, be independent, be humble and be happy with the path they choose and with themselves.”

The Garden Warrior is available on Amazon in both Kindle and print editions.

H O P E / D E CE MBE R 2021 | 33

Lasting Legacies Chaminade Julienne High School Honors the Loss of Two Beloved Educators

BY KARY ELLEN BERGER

JUDI MACLEOD

Together they gave a combined 35 years of service to Chaminade Julienne Catholic High School (CJ). But Judi MacLeod and Ann Szabo were much more than their work for the school community — they exemplified Catholic faith and were pillars in the Dayton area.

Szabo passed away on Sept. 15, and MacLeod on Sept.28.

ANN SZABO

Szabo attended Julienne High School and her husband Chaminade High School, both graduating in 1972. The two schools later combined to form Chaminade Julienne, attended by all six of their boys. In 2008, Ann began working in the Alumni and Development office, and was Alumni Relations Coordinator at her passing. She also volunteered as the Freshman Student Council Moderator and supported the school’s Grief Group.

More than a staff member, alumna and past parent — Szabo supported students when they needed someone to talk to and was a beacon of hope for many.

ANN SZABO

“Both MacLeod and Szabo left everlasting marks at Chaminade Julienne, the Dayton community, and beyond. “ 3 4 | THE CATHOLIC TE LEGRAPH

“Ann had a special place in her heart for some of our CJ students who needed an extra push to motivate them to persevere through challenges,” said Greg Mueller, Principal at Chaminade Julienne. “She helped our students develop grit with a focus on their goals. She was credited by many CJ students for being the reason they made it to graduation day.

In short, Ann cared deeply for everyone she met.”

Chaminade Julienne President, Dan Meixner, agrees. “She was funny, caring, blunt with love, proud of her family, and a champion of students who needed extra attention or an opportunity to shine.”

Also active at her home parish, Corpus Christi, Szabo was an avid sports fan cheering on students from both Corpus Christi and Chaminade Julienne through the years. She was also President of her Five Oaks Neighborhood Improvement Association.

JUDI MACLEOD

MacLeod graduated from Chaminade Julienne in 1988. As a student, she asked the principal when special education would be brought to the school and he retorted that it wasn’t going to happen. And it didn’t happen, until Judi returned in 1999 to start Cuvilly – an integrated special education program that immerses students with various special needs in the same classrooms as their peers. She directed the program since its inception, growing from a few students to over 100 today.

“Her passion to create a space for those who are little more vulnerable than others in our society was the driver of her work,” said former Chaminade Julienne Principal and current Director of Development at the school, John Marshall. “Her example of acceptance, and meeting the students where they were, inspired many at CJ to do the same.”

Because of her dedication to serving those with special needs, numerous schools have implemented programs similar to Cuvilly.

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Supporting students outside of the classroom as a bowling team coach, MacLeod also sang with the school’s faculty and staff choir and received the school’s Founders Award at its inauguration in 2014.

Working alongside her husband, Don, while raising one daughter and three sons, MacLeod too was active in her home parish, St. Helen, teaching religious education and involved with Boy Scouts. In addition, she was a member of the Belonging Task Force with the Office for Persons with Disabilities for the Archdiocese of Cincinnati.

“Judi worked tirelessly to ensure that all of God’s children have a meaningful place in our Church,” said Noelle CollisDeVito, Associate Director of the Office for Persons with Disabilities. “May we all learn from her example and live our lives to honor the legacy that she has left behind.”

Both MacLeod and Szabo left everlasting marks at Chaminade Julienne, the Dayton community, and beyond. They will never be forgotten.

“We know that all things work for good for those who love God, who are called according to his purpose.” (Rom. 8:28).

N E W S / DE CE M BE R 2021 | 35

ORIGINAL UNITY PART 2: THE SEXUAL DIFFERENCE POPE ST. JOHN PAUL II’S THEOLOGY OF THE BODY This article is part of an ongoing series on Pope St. John Paul II’s “Theology of the Body” (TOB).

Last month, we began to explore the second of the “original experiences” described by Pope St. John Paul II: original unity.

We saw how God created woman to be a “help” to man. In their first encounter, the man rejoiced, “This at last is bone of my bone and flesh of my flesh” (Gen. 2:23a). Recognizing that she is another embodied person like him, the creation of woman helps man complete the search for identity begun in original solitude. Indeed, Pope St. John Paul II taught that man and woman mutually provide this “help” to each other. Through their encounter, man and woman discover their equal dignity as human persons, as well as the mysterious difference brought to light by their maleness and femaleness. They help one another discover their identity and vocation.

Original unity describes this encounter between man and woman and the discovery of how we are united at the level of human nature. Each of our bodies reveals a person, and we are, therefore, equal in our human dignity. At the same time, our male and female bodies show that we are distinct. It is important to clarify that male and female are not two halves of human nature. Rather, there is one human nature and both man and woman fully participate in it. Essentially, through our bodies, we discover that within this one human nature, there are two ways of being human: male and female. These two – male and female – constitute two ways of having and expressing human nature. Thus, through our male and female bodies, we discover the principle of unity-in-distinction: the one human nature is embodied through the duality of male and female.

In the face of much confusion today, Pope St. John Paul II’s teachings on our maleness and femaleness are more important than ever. He showed in his Theology of the Body how deeply our being male or female affects the person. For instance, he wrote that our maleness or femaleness is “constitutive for the person” and not merely “an attribute of the person” (TOB 10.1). While we discover our maleness or femaleness in the body, the sexual difference affects the entire person, all the way to the core of our inmost being. The body reveals the person, and so the sexuality revealed by the body (i.e., male or female) 3 6 | THE CATHOLIC TE LEGRAPH

reveals something fundamental about who we are. It is the human person as such that is male or female, and this difference of sexuality affects the person on every level.

This teaching on the personal significance of our maleness and femaleness has been emphasized by the Church’s teaching authority on many occasions. For instance, in a letter to the bishops of the world in 2004, the Vatican’s Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith wrote: “The importance and the meaning of the sexual difference, as a reality deeply inscribed in man and woman, needs to be noted. Sexuality characterizes man and woman not only on the physical level, but also on the psychological and spiritual, making its mark on each of their expressions. It cannot be reduced to a pure and insignificant biological fact, but rather is a fundamental component of personality, one of its modes of being, of manifestation, of communicating with others, of feeling, of expressing and of living human love” (no. 8).

Similarly, the Catechism of the Catholic Church affirms: “Sexuality [i.e., being male or female] affects all aspects of the human person in the unity of his body and soul. It especially concerns affectivity, the capacity to love and to procreate, and in a more general way the aptitude for forming bonds of communion with others” (CCC, 2332).

We have seen that through the encounter between man and woman, we simultaneously discover our oneness in human nature and the deep, mysterious difference of our sexuality.

Reflecting on this unity-in-distinction with the help of Pope St. John Paul II enables us to see how decisive our maleness and femaleness are for our identity and our vocation. We will continue to delve deeper into these realities in subsequent reflections, especially the implications of original unity for our vocation, namely the call to communion.

DR. ANDREW SODERGREN, MTS, PSY.D. is a Catholic psychologist and director of psychological services for Ruah Woods. He speaks on topics related to the integration of psychology and the Catholic faith. He and his wife, Ellie, have been married 21 years and have five children.

Retirement Fund for Religious

Please give to those who have given a lifetime.

Like the women and men religious shown here, thousands of elderly sisters, brothers, and religious order priests have devoted their lives to helping others. Across the US, generations of Catholics gratefully recall their ministry in Catholic schools, hospitals, parishes, and works of mercy. Most older religious served for little pay. Today, without enough retirement savings, many religious communities are struggling to care for senior members.

Your gift to the Retirement Fund for Religious helps provide nursing care, medicine, and other necessities.

Please be generous.

Please give at your local parish December 11–12.

To donate by mail:

retiredreligious.org

Make check payable to the Archdiocese of Cincinnati/RFR.

Visit retiredreligious.org/2021photos to meet the religious pictured.

©2021 United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, Washington DC • All rights reserved • Photo: Jim Judkis

Office for Consecrated Life Attn: Maria Reinagel 100 E. Eighth Street Cincinnati OH 45202

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ST . BA RBARA ’S RICE KR I S P I E TR E AT TO W E R

In the middle of the second Century near what is modern day Tuscany, Italy, Barbara lived with her B Y WAY NE & MARIANNE TOP P

father who was a rich and powerful pagan ruler named Dioscorus. As she grew, her father noticed how beautiful she was and wanted to protect her from the outside world. So, he locked her in a tower with only one window and allowed only her pagan tutors to enter and leave her room. When she was left alone, Barbara would spend her time gazing out the tower window and was moved by the beauty of creation. Eventually, she came to believe in the Christian God and made a private vow of consecrated virginity. When she was old enough in her father’s eyes, she was allowed out of the tower for a short period of time. During that time, she met with other Christians and grew evermore in love with her faith, with Jesus Christ and with His Church.

While she was away, her father had a private bath house designed for Barbara with two windows.

She had the architects add a third window in the design in honor of the Holy Trinity. After her own secret baptism here, this tower became a source of many healings. Ultimately, she told her father that she would not marry any of the suitors he was beginning to present to her and that she would no longer worship his idols. This enraged her father who beat her, locked her up again, and starved her.

He then handed her over to the executioners who

If you will indulge us, we would like to start this

tortured her cruely before beheading her. Until the

article with a brief story. Once upon a time there

very end, she never gave up her faith in Jesus Christ.

lived a young girl whom her parents loved with all their hearts. She was taken from them, however,

St. Barbara is one of those saints stories that seems

by an evil witch who wanted the young girl for

to have transcended time and cultures. In fact,

herself. The witch locked the girl in a hidden tower

her story is the original inspiration for the story of

and allowed her only to gaze out of the window

Rapunzel. Instead of being rescued by a charming

as her only connection with the outside world.

prince, Barbara was dazzled by the King of Kings.

Eventually, the girl’s beauty was noticed by

Instead of being stolen by an evil witch, Barbara’s

a handsome prince who eventually climbed

own father was trapped by the evil that led him

the tower to rescue her. That girl, as I’m

to treat her with cruelty. And yet, through it all,

sure you know, was named Rapunzel and

the beautiful Barbara had the grace and courage

that story was first written by the Brothers

to follow her heart to the source of Love. This

Grimm in 1812. However, there is another

December, let us pray that we and our children

young, beautiful girl who shares a similar

may see the beauty of creation and be drawn to a

fate. Her story was real, however, and it

greater love for the Lord.

happened more than 1500 years earlier in the time of the Roman persecution of

To commemorate St. Barbara, who is the patron of

Christians. Her name is St. Barbara, and

architects, we will be making an edible tower with

her feast day is December 4th.

three windows.

3 8 | THE CATHOLIC TE LEGRAPH

SUPPLIES • 6 cups Rice Krispies • 3 T Butter • 10 oz package of marshmallows (or 4 cups mini marshmallows) • Ice Cube tray • Cooking Spray • Mason Jelly Jar (or glass) • Small tube of colored icing • Battery powered tea light candle (optional)

• TIME COMMITMENT: 15-20 MIN • AGE LEVEL: 5+

INSTRUCTIONS

“The St. Joseph Home community is built on love, kindness, and faith. This is where individual differences and abilities are nurtured and celebrated. Life here is a blessing.”

—Anne Keefe, retired Board Chair

1. In a large saucepan melt butter and marshmallows until smooth.

2. Stir in Rice Krispies cereal until well coated.

3. While mixture cools slightly, spray the ice cube tray with cooking spray.

4. With greased fingers firmly pack about 2 tablespoons of the mixture into each ice cube slot of the tray.

5. Place the mason jar in the center of a dinner plate.

6. Remove each “brick” and begin making a circle tower around the mason jar.

7. Once all the bricks have been placed on the tower, pipe three windows on the wall of the tower.

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8. At meal time, place the small tea light candle in the mason jar and discuss the story of St. Barbara’s courageous devotion and the way God drew her in by the beauty of his creation.

For older children, consider using a double batch and challenging them to build a tower with the windows included in the design instead of adding them with icing.

M A K IN G CA T H O L IC M E M O R IE S / D E CE M BE R 2021 | 39

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OUT & ABOUT 1) MASS FOR THE DEAF COMMUNITY

Father Michael Depcik, a deaf priest, celebrated Mass and the Sacrament of Reconciliation for the deaf community at Immaculate Conception Church in Bradford for 24 members of the deaf community.

2) FAMILY LEGACIES AT SAN ANTONIO CHURCH

Aug. 2022 marks the 100th anniversary of San Antonio Church. The parish has a rich legacy of serving the Italian community through faith, outreach and prayer. The Delseno, Di Stefano, Cerullo, and Serraino families were among those immigrants honored on Sunday, Oct. 3, 2021.

3) 170 YEARS IN NEW RICHMOND

In November, St. Peter Parish in New Richmond celebrated 170 years. Immediately following the Nov. 7 weekend Masses, parishioners gathered to hear long time members share their stories of family history in the parish. Pastor, Father James Reutter, gave a special 170th anniversary blessing.

4) ROSARY EVENING IN MADIERA

Because the Rosary is a significant part of the Dominican charism, Sister Maria Christi, principal of St. Gertrude School in Madiera, hosted a special event and encouraged 100 percent participation from school students and families. It was a beautiful evening with a rosary procession, Benediction and consecration of the school to Our Lady.

4 0 | THE CATHOLIC TELE GRAPH

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27 Tread the boards 29 Common biblical harvest 30 Cry from the congregation 31 One of seven of the Holy Spirit 32 Facility 33 Conceal 34 Plains people 35 Urges 36 Crucifix 39 Radar screen warning 40 Title for Catholic poet Edith Sitwell 42 Church assn. for kids 43 Symbol of the Holy Spirit 45 Be present at Mass 46 Stephen, for one 48 Aromatic fragrance 49 Catholic poet, best known for “The Highwayman” 50 Numbers holder 51 White with age 52 Sister of Rachel 53 Much needed button 54 Mob follower?

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ACROSS 1 Christian symbol 5 Former JFK arrivals 9 To the end (Lt. abbr.)

14 Differ ending 15 Hip bones 16 Farm birds 17 Purim month 18 Shane of “Shane” 19 White poplar 20 Bro or sis 21 “Let him ___ himself and take up his cross and follow me.” (Mt 16:24) 22 Like some cars 23 Sampling 25 Family 28 Decay 29 Remains of anything ruined 33 DC Catholic university team 36 Defraud 37 Ms. Farrow 38 Separate article 39 “When we eat this ___ and drink…”

40 Dict. entries 41 Spanish title 42 The soldiers put a scarlet one on Jesus 43 “Inferno” author 44 Writer 46 Catholic comedian DeLuise 47 Outstanding

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THE FINAL WORD with Lisa Hendey

WHAT ARE YOU SAYING “YES” TO? Answering Advent’s Call

“Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord. May it be done to me according to your word.” (Luke 1:38) With her fiat, Mary of Nazareth said “Yes” to God, agreeing to be the mother of our Savior, and forever changing the world.

transformative change, and loving service. When you and I err on the side of giving our own unique “yes” to God’s call, we have the capacity to rock our world. Mary certainly did.

Advent and Christmas are especially great opportunities to contemplate the times we’ve said yes to God in our lives, just as Mary did. We can also prayerfully consider those occasions when we should have said yes, but failed to do so, and make a commitment daily to follow Mary’s example.

Saying yes to God’s will means loving not only in ways that feel substantive and important, but also truly delivering our best effort, even when our hearts are not into the task at hand. Examples from the Beatitudes, are feeding the hungry by cooking a square meal in our own kitchen and clothing the naked by tackling our family’s huge laundry pile. At other times, our yes means volunteering at a shelter, being an RCIA sponsor, or donating food to the poor.

Countless times a day God places real-world opportunities and challenges in my path and asks for my yes, but I fear and falter all too frequently. In my haste to remain in control, on top of all that’s on my plate, I neglect to truly and deeply ponder, pray, dream, and imagine the possibilities. I’m sure you’ve also experienced this in your life.

Truthfully, attaining that full and worthy yes will always be a work in progress. There will never be a day when I wake up and think, “Wow, I’m there. I’ve done it!” So the journey— each step along the path to heaven—is a daily decision to give my best and praise God for the grace of His accepting my tiny gift.

I have doubted, questioned, and even knowingly rejected my creed. I am, of course, a sinner – as are we all – but I am a hopeful one. I trust that God’s grace will save me and God wants you to say yes to his grace, too. After all, Jesus called fishermen, a repentant tax collector, and a woman of ill repute to be his followers; their “yes” were a radical trust that God had the perfect plan for their lives.

I want to walk my path to heaven mindfully, with diligence, exertion, joy, and love. Each day, I can’t wait to learn, discover, mess up, confess, have fun and perhaps even help a few people along the way. I can’t wait—at path’s end, and God willing—to fully discover the grace of my “yes.”

Mary must have understood that faith is the connection between our lingering doubts and the discipline of “Yes, Lord, I believe.” As I grow along my path as a Christian, I want to more radically commit to a generosity of spirit – a gift that God placed within me for the work He puts before me. That’s generous living; consistently and gently stoking the embers within us into blazing fires of action, mission, 4 2 | THE F INAL WORD

During this Advent and Christmas, let’s pray earnestly for the ability to say yes to God, our family, and the world around us, just as Mary did. With God as our Father and Mary at our side as our model, we have the potential to change the world.

LISA M. HENDEY

is the founder of CatholicMom.com and the author of a number of books, including The Grace of Yes. Visit her at LisaHendey.comn.

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