Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish Newspaper Published since 1978 by Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish (1944–2014) December 2014 Our Season with Sr. Carole Temming, RSM By Kate Tucci O By Father Tom Kreidler D and gentle laughter. No one is a stranger to her when you walk into our parish. She is a treasure and a friend. There is only one Sr. Carole. — Judy Sherlock (Continued on page 2) Inside: Project Education for Batahola 10th Anniversary 3 People in the Pews The McHugh Family 6 Family Catechesis Nights — The Mass Parish School 7 IHM Open House 11 ear friends, Recently I received an email from a gentleman who had said he wanted to see me. We made an appointment and met. Many years ago when I was an assistant principal in charge of discipline for the high school, I had given him a detention. It was the last day of school his senior year and he resented it greatly. He said that later he came to understand the “why”— “It was discipline, Father. That’s why you did it.” However, it was a while before he came to that realization. He said that at graduation he swore at me. He did it under his breath, but he didn’t think I heard him. Over the years, this bothered him. So now, almost 30 years later, he wanted to see me face to face and apologize. I was happy to accept it. I know that teaching is a profession with often delayed positive feedback. Still, at other times, we don’t always say what we should soon enough. During this time of giving thanks and of preparing our hearts to receive the Lord during this Advent Season, we can take the opportunity to tell others, (Continued on page 2) 513-388-4466 E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.ihom.org n the verge of the start of the Year of Consecrated Life that commences November 30, 2014, our beloved Sr. Carole Temming, Sister of Mercy for over 60 years, retired on November 1. There is simply not enough space in this paper for all of the kind words and heartfelt appreciation for her. I decided to provide a montage of the comments and memories here. Sr. Carole has been such a blessing to our parish. To say that she has been my right hand is an understatement! As our first parish nurse, she has set the bar very high as a standard for the quality of ministry and care that brings the face of Jesus to the ill, the shut-in, and the dying and bereaved. It seems that every time I visit folks in the hospital, Sr. Carole has been there—as they proudly show their prayer shawls that cover them she has delivered. She has blessed us by bringing God’s joy and loving presence to our lives. Thank you Sr. Carole for sharing your many gifts with God’s people here at IHM. — Fr. Tom Kreidler I will also miss her jokes. Sometimes she is laughing so hard she can’t even get the punchline out. — Linda Reekers When my husband was very ill five years ago, Sr. Carole visited first at Mercy Hospital and then at University Hospital. Bob remembers waking up from his medically induced coma thinking, “I can’t have died and gone to hell, because I’m freezing and Sr. Carole is standing here.” — Kacey Ryan Sr. Carole has been an inspiration to the nurses and health professionals of the parish. She has led us in a quiet and spiritual way to positive health goals. We will truly miss her. — Sherrie Heyse Sr. Carole always brings such peace with her. Those with great losses do return and she checks in with them throughout their grieving process. We will miss her unique tenderness From the Pastor Cincinnati, Ohio Permit No. 2975 PAID U.S. POSTAGE Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish 7770 Beechmont Avenue Cincinnati, OH 45255 NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION 2 HeartBeat December 2014 Our Season with Sr. Carole Temming, RSM (Continued from page 1) Sr. Carole’s phone calls on the anniversary months of my mom’s death, mother-in-law’s death, and brother-in-law’s death were so appreciated and brought such comfort at the time. How she kept up with it all was a witness of her dedication and love for all she served. And I will miss her jokes! — Susie O’Neil Sr. Carole is my computer and technical support expert. She is always willing and able to help. I will sorely miss her expertise and kind voice as she explains complex issues to me. Hopefully I will be able to limp along without her support. I will seriously miss her. — Ed Birck A gentle smile, so many kind words and a loving hug. This is our Sr. Carole, as a member of the bereavement committee, ministering to the loss and emotions of the relatives and friends of the deceased. Such a blessing she is and what wonderful consolation she brings to all with whom she comes in contact. — Bob Koesters and the Bereavement Committee In September, my 88-year-old father underwent robotic aortic valve replacement surgery, and I called Sr. Carole to let her know and ask her to keep him in her prayers. Lo and behold, she came to Good Samaritan Hospital a few hours after his surgery. After greeting and checking on me and each of my siblings, she placed a prayer shawl over my father, gathered us around his bed, led us in a beautiful conversation of prayer and fed us with the Eucharist. The cardiac team quietly backed away and allowed her presence, as she actually came in just past the peak of a semi-crisis where his blood pressure had plummeted to the 30s and they determined he needed an increase in IV fluids. By the conclusion of our prayer, his blood pressure stabilized in the 90s, prompting Jane Whalen, a member of the cardiac team to quip, “Wow, they brought in the big guns!” And of course she kept in contact following up afterward. — Sharon Sanker, Cancer Support Group Sr. Carole has always been wonderful about following up on anyone’s questions, going out of her way to get the pertinent information. She always has a cute joke to tell and really enjoys sharing it and seeing us laugh. She is so good in following up with the sick and remembering loved ones’ death anniversaries. — Marilyn Cozzi I am challenged to make my sentiments about Sr. Carole brief! Never have I met a more humble servant. She is highly intelligent and educated. She is a quiet and holy presence with a strong ability to lead. She is extremely organized, capable of tough decisions and able to manage a multitude of tasks and responsibilities. She never shows stress, only love, patience and kindness. She is a perfect example of living the life God designed her to live, completely selfless and consistently putting everyone else above her own needs and desires. — Cindy Fries O’Connor, Healthcare Ministry Advisory Commission Her title is “Parish Nurse” but this does not begin to describe her or the absolute faith and trust that she At her retirement reception on November 7th, Sister Carole had one last famous joke to leave us when asked for one: “When you go to bed tonight take a ruler with you. Then you can measure how well you slept.” is the “go to person” when a crisis occurs and help is needed. She appears at hospitals, nursing homes, funerals, or wherever she is needed offering prayer, comfort and support in a gentle caring way. She oversees 15 parish ministries and encourages those individuals whom she believes have gifts that will enhance these ministries to share them with the parish. She even finds yarn for the prayer shawls and people to knit them, and then she delivers them to those in need. We have been blessed for 12 years and the gifts she has shared will never be forgotten! — Pat Armstrong, Health Ministry Chair Sr. Carole has always been the glue that has kept our Elizabeth Ministry together, but she has also touched our lives personally. She asked if I wanted to receive the Anointing of the Sick prior to my own surgery and to be put on the prayer list. I was hesitant because I felt it was reserved for those in dire straits. She convinced me otherwise; she also visited me after surgery and brought me a prayer shawl. I have never recovered so quickly from surgery. After that experience I became a true believer in the power of prayer. My sons cannot believe her age. Why should they? She is at the gym every day. She not only supports the parish and our Catholic faith, but as a nurse she leads and promotes a healthy lifestyle. — Theresa Cullen Sr. Carole is “the Mother Superior” of IHM. I call her that and she calls me “The Rev.” She is one of the most impactful people in my life. I am a cancer survivor, and I helped her form the cancer support group here at IHM. She has always been there for me. Each time I had a cancer-free CAT scan I would stand in front of the cross and ask the Lord how I could show my gratitude. The answer came from Sr. Carole, “Just be the best Bob Calder you can be.” — Bob Calder, Cancer Support Group Sr. Carole has always been vigilant in checking on the health of my mom, Kathryn Terlecky, now a resident of Forest Hills Care Center. Moreover, she has checked on me as well and acknowledged that it isn’t easy being a caregiver. Her kind eyes take in the pain and radiate the understanding and compassion of Jesus. We are fortunate in that my mom gets lots of company from our friends and family, and I told Sr. Carole that I see many residents in the nursing home with no visitors. I see them and their loneliness when I visit my mom, and I wasn’t surprised to find that prayer shawls showed up in many of their rooms. When I asked how they got their prayer shawls they described a visit from someone that sounded a lot like Sr. Carole, and they couldn’t believe she came to bring cheer to non-Catholics…a true witness to being “the hands and feet” of the Lord. — Kate Tucci From the Pastor (Continued from page 1) “Thank You.” We can take advantage of the great Sacrament of Reconciliation to unburden ourselves of any baggage we may be carrying needlessly. We are blessed. It is important for us to tell others how we are blessed because of them. It is important to tell our God what we need to, so as to be blessed by God’s forgiveness. God bless you, HeartBeat December 2014 3 Project Education for Batahola Celebrates Its 10th Anniversary By Mary Pommert W hen Project Education for Batahola was launched in November 2005, the Project Education team had no idea what response to anticipate. Ten years later, the team is overwhelmed with the generosity of IHM parishioners who have sponsored 2,170 students and teachers, raising $418,850 for the purpose of education at our twinning community, the Cultural Center of Batahola Norte. Parishioners have sponsored Batahola students for their family members and for themselves, for friends, and as gifts and memorials for others. They have sponsored students taking individual classes at the Center, as well as grade school, high school, and college scholarship students. They have also sponsored teachers who teach classes at the Center. In 10 years, Project Education for Batahola has supported the education of 2,170 students and raised $418,850. Jennifer Marshall has been the General Coordinator at the Cultural Center of Batahola Norte since the beginning of Project Education. It is because of her guidance that the program was able to launch and continues to grow. She sees firsthand, year in and year out, the positive impact of Project Education on students’ lives in Managua. According to Jennifer, “Project Education is a beautiful expression of the twinning covenant between IHM Parish and the Batahola community, which is based first and foremost on building relationships as part of the Body of Christ. Partnership is at the heart of Project Education—between the organizers on the Project Education team and in Batahola, and between sponsors and the students who are able to continue their studies, thanks to the sponsorship. The project honors the dignity of students, as they share their hopes and struggles, and it strengthens the community that nurtures them along their journey of personal and professional development.” Sharon Sanker, a member of the Project Education team, summed up the feelings of the team when she said, “What a blessing Project Education has been to the Center, its students and to us. There isn’t a more lasting or sustaining way to help alleviate poverty in a third-world country than to sponsor a child’s or adult’s education. I’m grateful to IHM parishioners who have sponsored students or made cash donations. Let’s keep Project Education going for another ten years!” Project Education 2015 runs through March 1, 2015. If you’d like to sponsor a student, you can pick up a sponsorship brochure in the gathering space at church, at the parish office, or online at www.ihom.org/Give/ProjectEducation. To My Special Friends in the Lord By Sr. Carole Temming O n an Easter card it stated “We’re special friends in the Lord.” That seems to say what I feel about what we were to each other here at IHM. It was out of my love for Jesus and my mission as a Sister of Mercy to spread that great love when I began my ministry here. I have come to know many of you as very special friends of that same Lord whom we all love and who brings us to love one another. I am deeply grateful for all the opportunities that I have had through my involvement with so many different groups of people. I have appreciated the many concerns and hopes that were shared with me. God has filled my life with more than I could ever deserve. I thank God for the years I have been given to be here to love and grow in so many ways. I really could not ask for anything more. Over the years I have been involved in the Health Ministry Commission, Nurses’ Group, Elizabeth Ministry, visits to parishioners in homes or hospitals, bereavement, and so much more. This enabled me to experience with you the knowledge and love of our God through our ministry together. The opportunity to walk with so many people has been a special gift to me. I never cease to be amazed at the many ways God calls each one of us. It leaves me with no doubt that God’s love is a personal love that meets each of our needs and personalities. I am especially grateful to Fr. Jan and Fr. Tom who welcomed, included, and supported me throughout my years here at IHM. Their friendship sustained me through good and hard times. I am most appreciative of the support and generous good will of our parish staff. They managed to do so many things for me that helped to make my ministry function smoothly. Even though I am leaving full-time ministry here at IHM, I am not saying good-bye. I look forward to seeing and hearing about you when I attend Mass at the parish. I feel I have been guided on a path by God my whole life, and with every turn another pathway was opened. I believe it will happen again. I pray that God will continue to bless each one of you and that you will remember me in your prayers. Again, thank you for being great friends in the Lord. HeartBeat 4 December 2014 15 Years of Twinning with Cultural Center of Batahola Norte By Sue Keefe I HM celebrates 15 years of twinning with the Cultural Center of Batahola Norte (CCBN) in January 2015. Here are some thoughts from the IHM Project Education team, which celebrates 10 years of supporting CCBN next year as well. Melissa Auvil: I think the perfect example of what twinning means was evident in the luncheon at IHM this past year. It was palpable and alive. The women from both Batahola Norte in Nicaragua and Our Lady of the Mountains in KY shared how their lives have been impacted. It was evident from their stories that this twinning relationship profoundly changed them. Twinning gives us the opportunity to extend a hand to our friends far and near and to work with them to create a solid foundation of love, trust, growth, strength and empowerment. We all grow from twinning. Twinning allows us to share Jesus’ love with each other. Bob Sanker: I became aware of IHM’s twinning relationship with the Cultural Center of Batahola Norte when I traveled to Nicaragua with my son in 2005 as part of the annual IHM immersion trip. That trip gave me a new view of what it means to be part of God’s universal church. Although we speak a different language, I learned that we share the same hopes and dreams as the people of Nicaragua. We all want peace and justice in our communities. We want our families to be happy and healthy. We want our children to have the opportunity to pursue their dreams. All people should be afforded the opportunity to enjoy these simple universal values. I also learned that while Nicaragua is an economically poor country that has been devastated by natural disasters, it is culturally rich and its people are resilient, resourceful and friendly. The CCBN provides a place for the community to come together to support one another, to learn and share the beautiful culture of Nicaragua, and to provide opportunities for education which are critical for the underprivileged population of Managua to rise out of poverty. The CCBN is a living example of Christian community. We have learned much from the people of the CCBN about love, generosity and solidarity. We have much more to learn. Every day they give comfort to those in need, support for the vulnerable, and inspiration to the oppressed. The work they do gives living witness to the message of Christ. Mary Pommert: Our twinning relationship with the Cultural Center of Batahola Norte is a blessing in many tangible and intangible ways. For IHM, the relationship allows us to walk with the poor beyond our borders, witnessing the resilience, faith, and determination of our brothers and sisters at the Center, while supporting their important mission. As part of the team for Project Education for Batahola, a program which provides sponsorships to students at the Center, I have seen firsthand the long-term benefits of sustained quality education. Statistics suggest that providing quality education in third world countries such as Nicaragua, especially the education of young girls and women, decreases domestic violence, delays early marriage and first birth, improves dramatically the welfare of families, raises health standards, and undermines extremism. According to Sr. Marilyn Lacey, founder of the non-profit Mercy Beyond Borders, educating women and girls is the “most powerful force for Jim Vorwald, a teacher from Carlos Fonseca Elementary School, Managua, and Bob Sanker positive change on the planet. Education keeps girls alive!” Sr. Margie and Fr. Angel already knew and believed this over 30 years ago when they co-founded the Center and began building its education program. Absolutely, positively, the Center saves lives! How awesome it is to witness! For sure, our twinning relationship with the Center is about education, but I also see it as a bridge that connects our vastly different worlds and facilitates the sharing of our cultures, both of us giving and receiving and getting to know each other as individuals with unique personalities, struggles, families, and dreams. This process of mutual giving and receiving through twinning has made me realize, in a way that I otherwise would not have, that we are all the same in the eyes of God, one body in Christ. Personally, I feel blessed beyond measure for everyone I’ve met and worked with from the Center and IHM involved in our twinning. You feed my soul. Jim Vorwald: I have made two trips to Nicaragua to participate in our twinning relationship. I am usually not short on words, but these experiences left me speechless. For me, the immersion into this country and its culture opened new windows into God’s presence here on earth. It made me realize the arbitrary nature of manmade borders. It helped me realize that we share this world with people, however different their economic and cultural situations, who are also children of God. Twinning with the center helped me realize that love transcends geographical, cultural and economic differences. We share so much more than we realize; our hopes and dreams, our need for community, and our love of Christ and His creation. Without my participation in our twinning relationship, I would not have gained this insight. I am blessed to have and continue to have these experiences. I pray that everyone would have the blessing of this opportunity. Sue Keefe: As chair of the twinning committee with CCBN, I have purpose and meaning in my life that was inspired by working with Sr. Margie Navarro. Sr. Margie is in my bones and I am a better person because of her. I cherish meeting individuals from CCBN such as Jennifer Marshall, Amanda Otero, Joe Connelly, Sonia Olivares, Ileana Zuñiga, Josefa Rodriguez, Virgilio Medina, Nineth Larios, Candida Martinez, Gretchen Martinez, Mayra Velasquez, Daisi Alvarez, Gerardo Arias, and so many others whom I never would have known otherwise. They have enriched my life and touched so many others. After 15 years, IHM parishioners now know about CCBN, an educational center in Managua, Nicaragua that they would have never known about otherwise if we did not have a twinning relationship. Not only do they know about CCBN, but we also pray for each other and work together in our faith journeys through life. Over 250 people from our community have visited CCBN and have learned firsthand of their commendable work. Fifteen staff from CCBN have visited us. Mission is alive and well at IHM. HeartBeat December 2014 5 IHM School Celebrates National Hispanic Heritage Month S panish instructors Sonia Morales-Paris and Ingrid Menendez-Sabla organized a celebration for National Hispanic Heritage Month at Immaculate Heart of Mary School. This is the month to recognize the contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans to the United States and also celebrate Hispanic and Latino culture. The celebration was held in the school gymnasium. Sra. Morales arranged for the Son del Caribe band, of which she is a member, to play salsa and merengue music for students. Fourth and fifth graders held a parade with flags while simultaneously announcing fun facts about the countries they chose. With students acting out the parts, stories were told in Spanish. Kindergarten students performed dances with Sra. Morales for the celebration and she chose student volunteers from various grades to learn a new dance for the entertainment of everyone. IHM fourth grader Catalina Manrique performed a Spanish dance to the delight of the student audience. Ashley Kaminsky and Cataline Manrique in Spanish dance attire Sra. Morales dancing with IHM kindergartners. Secular Franciscans Declare Solidarity with Immigrant Brothers/Sisters society becomes,” the national body said: “We lament that immigrants live in fear of a dysfunctional system which often leads to the forced break-up of he national body of the U.S. Secular loving families.” Franciscan Order declared its “solidarity The body, consisting of some 50 leaders with our immigrant brothers and sisters” representing 13,000 Secular Franciscans across the in a statement unanimously adopted at its annual U.S., said that Secular Franciscans “are called by gathering, held Oct. 21–26 in Dallas, TX. our Rule of Life to cultivate the well-being of the Citing Philadelphia Archbishop Charles J. family through our Franciscan spirit of peace, Chaput’s insight that “the more we encourage and respect for aide. life.” Mrs. Wells, the all day PreK fidelity, class andand Mrs. Thomas, support the integrity of families, the healthier The leaders said they were inspired by the words National Fraternity Secular Franciscan Order of the United States T and actions of Tucson Bishop Gerald F. Kicanas, this year’s recipient of their Justice, Peace and Integrity of Creation Award. “We accept the challenge from Bishop Kicanas that we seek ways to stand in solidarity with our immigrant brothers and sisters, through prayer, personal action, and support for comprehensive immigration reform.” The Secular Franciscan Order is an order of single, married and ordained Catholics who profess to bring the Gospel to life in the spirit of St. Francis of Assisi. HeartBeat 6 December 2014 PEOPLE IN THE PEWS Meet the McHugh Family By Kate Tucci I looked around on Wednesday nights in October when IHM’s Evangelization and Catechesis Commission brought Family Nights to the parish, and I saw so many young families with their children. I miss having young ones, but I also wish I had done some of the very things they are doing with their own families. I admire them, and one of those families is the McHughs, whom I had the opportunity to meet at family nights. The McHughs were obviously enjoying themselves along with other young families. They were an approachable, happy family and embody the new generation of passionate Catholic families attending IHM. The McHughs joined IHM eight years ago. They were previously members at Holy Cross Immaculata Church in Mt. Adams which is where they were married. After their wedding, they bought a house in Anderson Township. Jim is originally from Bloomfield, NJ and went to St. Thomas the Apostle grade school and Seton Hall Prep School. He then went on to Dartmouth College. Katie grew up in Cincinnati and attended St. Thomas More grade school and McNicholas High School. She then attended Xavier University. Katie and Jim met during their senior year in college. While Katie was a student at Xavier, she visited Dartmouth to see a friend and Jim was the first person she met when she walked onto the campus. It turned out that Jim was her friend’s best friend so they got to spend the weekend together. From the moment they met, there was a special connection! After dating long distance for several years, Jim moved to Cincinnati where he proposed and they married a few years later! Jim works as a Certified Financial Planner™ with a local financial services firm downtown. After teaching both regular and special education classes for Norwood City Schools for six years, Katie decided to stay home with the children. When I asked what other things they do besides attending Family Nights, I had to laugh at the answer: “What aren’t we involved with?” As a family, they most often attend the 9:30 AM Mass. Katie is a member of the Education Commission and is co-director of Vacation Bible School. She coordinates the Knights of Columbus Breakfasts to include the day school students each month. She also regularly participates in MAGIC and True Devotion to Mary sessions. Jim assists with the festival and volunteers in the school classrooms. They spent the last five years volunteering with the Garage Sale for our twinning communities of which Katie has been a co-chair. They participate in the many spiritual offerings from the church such as Family Nights and the Married Couples Dinner. And they don’t look tired…they just look happy! Liliana is 7 years old and is in 1st grade at IHM. She is active in gymnastics and spends more time with her feet in the air than on the ground! She most recently was on the IHM cheerleading squad and Katie and Jim McHugh with Liliana, Quinn and Dean enjoyed cheering for the football players on the weekends. She is just starting Girl Scouts and will be in the Daisy troop this year. She also loves to read, swim, and take care of her baby brother. Quinn is 4.5 years old (the ½ is really important to him). Quinn is in pre-K at IHM. He is currently involved in a taekwondo class and loves learning martial arts techniques. He can’t wait to break his first board in a few months. He also loves bugs and dinosaurs. He is often found outside playing in the dirt looking for worms and bugs to take care of. He also loves the new freedom of riding his bike with no training wheels! Dean is only 5 months old. This newest member of the family brings smiles each day! He just mastered the art of rolling over and is currently trying to sit up by himself. He likes to blow raspberries and see how loud he can make his voice. He’s also very excited to try solid foods soon. He looks forward to the day he can go to school at IHM like his big sister and brother. The McHughs have a pet dog named Louie. He is a little guy weighing a whopping 6 pounds and is white with black markings. He got his name because he has a black “L” on his back. He is 9 years old and enjoys long walks outside and the occasional table food treat. He and Quinn play a great game of catch and love to run circles around each other. As a family they simply enjoy being together. They love to have family nights at home where they play outside and go for walks or watch a movie together. They also enjoy going to Kings Island, the zoo and the museum together. They realize they have been blessed with wonderful family and friends and also enjoy spending time connecting with them throughout the year. There are many cousins and friends with children the same age so there is always someone around to get together with! I asked Katie specifically about helping families at IHM to grow in their faith, and what we as a parish can be doing to improve and help other families to grow. Her answer? “We really enjoy the family nights! They have been a great way for us to grow stronger in our faith and with the other families who attend. The food is always wonderful and our children love the opportunity to go off into small groups with the other children. It would be nice to have more topics that are related to current events in our society that pose a challenge to our beliefs as Catholics. Many of our friends have discussed how they struggle with ways to defend the Catholic Church and its teachings. We stand firm in our beliefs, but it’s often difficult to respond to others criticisms and negative comments. It would be helpful to have a series that helps us be better at defending the church. As far as attracting more families, you are doing everything we could think of to advertise for it! The struggle we’ve heard from families is making the time with sports, homework, etc. I think it’s a matter of people actually MAKING the time! We feel so blessed to be a part of the IHM community. It truly has been our home away from home and gives a great sense of family and community. God was watching out for us when he guided us to this parish and we are truly thankful!” If you see this sweet family joyfully living out their lives. Please smile back at them, and if you don’t know them, make time to meet them. They are delightful, and I am sure they make the Lord smile. HeartBeat December 2014 7 Family Catechesis Nights — The Mass Deacon Mike Cassani F amily Catechesis Nights occurred weekly on Wednesdays in October. Starting with a delicious dinner and ending with separate adult and children sessions, I sought to deepen attendees’ appreciation of the Mass and help them begin to see more clearly the mystery before us. The Mass as well as the visible church is the apex of reality, woven throughout salvation history. I opened the first session by asking attendees if they knew where the plaque inscribed with “Here you leave today and enter the world of yesterday, tomorrow and fantasy” is located. This bold statement greets visitors to Disney World. In an even bolder statement, the Catechism of the Catholic Church describes the Church this way: “to enter into the house of God, we must cross a threshold, which symbolizes passing from the world wounded by sin to the world of the new Life to which all men are called. The visible church is a symbol of the Father’s house toward which the People of God is journeying and where the Father will wipe every tear from their eyes.” (no. 1186) Consider then, these comparisons: • Every year, large numbers of people go to Disney World to escape their everyday lives, and children rarely complain, “Do I have to go? It’s so boring.” • With church many ask, “Do I have to go? It’s so boring.” • Disney is a great place to visit, but most of its claims do not hold up, except for one—fantasy. It goes to great lengths to hide reality and create fantasy. It is a world of “make believe.” • However, in the description of the Church, the word fantasy doesn’t appear. The Church isn’t about fantasy—it is about reality. Everything in the Church points to a greater reality that we can’t see, but it is real and these things help to draw us into that greater reality. As we say in our creed—all that is visible and invisible. We are born with nearly clear vision, yet the more we are exposed to the secular world, our vision is shaped by our experiences. When we come to church, we expect the flash, dazzle, and emotional buzz we get from the world and are unsatisfied when we don’t receive them. The Catholic Church is the place where our satisfaction comes from a deeper relationship with Jesus, where our souls can soar and encounter the living God. It is literally the place on earth closest to heaven. In our first week together we discussed the church building, furnishings, vestments, sacred books and vessels and how these help us to enter more deeply into the sacred mystery of the Mass. We also discussed the postures of the people and how they relate to specific parts of the Mass. Each participant’s role, as well as the lectionary cycle and liturgical colors were covered. The Mass is the ultimate in reality because, even though we can’t see everything that is happening, Jesus is both present with us as the sacrifice to the Father and He is also the High Priest offering Himself as the sacrifice to the Father. The altar is the place of that sacrifice, and the sacrifice of Jesus’ crucifixion 2000 years ago is made present at each Mass. In our second week, we discussed sacrifice. We talked about how Adam and Eve sinned and how their sin caused a separation from God. Humans have tried to bridge that gap with God and atone for sins through sacrifice. With the ancient Israelites, God instructed them on the first Passover to sacrifice a lamb, spread the blood of the lamb on the doorposts and to eat the lamb. Through this sacrifice and eating of the lamb, they were freed from captivity in Egypt. God told them to remember by recreating this Passover. In a similar fashion, elements of the Mass of the early Church in the first and second centuries reflect these roots and are still present in our Mass. To emphasize this continuity, I read from one of St. Justin Martyr’s letters demonstrating that even then, the newly formed church worshipped as we do today. In our third week we walked through the first half of the Mass, focusing on the Introductory Rites, which include the Entrance, reverencing the altar, greeting, penitential act, Gloria, and collect prayer that precede the Liturgy of the Word. The Liturgy of the Word, comprised of the first reading, responsorial psalm, second reading, Gospel, homily, creed, and universal prayer, provides the bridge to the second half of the Mass, the Liturgy of the Eucharist. In our final week together, we reflected on the Liturgy of the Eucharist, including the preparation of the gifts, offertory procession, as well as the parts of the Eucharistic Prayer, the Eucharist as the true presence of Christ, the Communion Rite, and the Concluding Rite. The Mass is a wonderful gift from God. The gifts that are brought to the altar represent God’s creation, including our lives and everything we have, our joys and wonderful gifts, as well as our prayers, sorrows, suffering and pain. We bring these to the altar to be offered to God the Father through Jesus who is at the same time the sacrifice and the High Priest. Our gifts are taken by the Father, by the power of the Holy Spirit, and turned into what is most precious to Him—His Son. He gives his Son, Jesus, back to us so that we may receive the divine nature in us and be transformed. Thus being transformed, we are called to tell everyone of the wonderful things that happen at Mass so that we may transform the world. The Mass is not fantasy—it is reality where we can encounter the fullness of Jesus Christ being the same yesterday, today, and forever (Hebrews 13:8). HeartBeat 8 December 2014 IHM School Fall Carnival a Blast F amilies enjoyed a spaghetti or pizza dinner in the Immaculate Heart of Mary dining hall before heading to the Carnival. There was something for everyone! The Knights of Columbus cooked the delicious dinner to fuel children for the fun ahead. School staff donated baskets of goodies to be raffled that evening and games with prizes filled not only the gymnasium but also Heritage Hall and two other rooms. There was also the decorated face painting room where children could become their favorite character or animal! The newest addition to the Carnival was the Spooky Hallway, which only the brave dared to visit. The cake walk was filled with fresh baked treats and deciding the winning cakes in the various categories was no easy task. Immaculate Heart of Mary school parents did a wonderful job of turning the school into a Fall Palace of Fun for hundreds of smiling children. Molly Boer, Molly Anderson and Maryn Minnich Ryan and Julie McCarroll Reagan Overbeck and Amanda Schneider Skylar Kutcher and Mrs. Suzie Myers, Chairperson Forty Days for a Lifetime By Jane Elfers “I want to tell you something,” said a woman who drove up to the 40 Days for Life prayer vigil and rolled down her window. “I want you all to know that you are making a difference.” After the 40 Days for Life volunteer thanked her for the kind words, the woman asked, “Can I show you something?” It was a photo on her phone—a happy 7-month-old baby boy. By this time, the woman was in tears. “This is my fourth child.” She then went on to explain how she was planning an abortion because she didn’t think she could take on the responsibility of another child. “But because you all were here, I changed my mind. I have my son because of you.” This story in St. Louis reported on 40DaysforLife. com could have been our story, since three of us had a similar experience while praying outside Planned Parenthood during the 40 Days for Life in Cincinnati. Despite heavy traffic barreling past the facility on Auburn Avenue, a woman pulled her car over and rolled down the window. She called to Pat Manton, Pat Tekulve and me, “See that little boy in the back seat?” A cute baby boy sat happily in his car seat. “He would not be here today if it weren’t for you all being here. Thank you for praying for us. He is here because of your prayers.” During the 40 days, every Friday night from 7:00 – 8:00 PM, a prayer vigil was led by priests at Planned Parenthood. On October 10, Archbishop Dennis Schnurr led the prayer service. Friday nights were a good opportunity for first timers to be there as part of a group praying with our faithful pro-life priests who are leading the way for us. This prayerful witness impacts crisis pregnancy care centers as well. The day after our Respect Life presentation on “What Happens in a Crisis Pregnancy” given by Laura Strietman of Pregnancy Center East, she texted me with exciting news about the impact 40 Days for Life is having at their crisis pregnancy center; “We had four ultrasounds today, eight on Friday, some last night too! 40 Days makes an amazing difference…we have been buried at PCE! Praise God for 40 Days for Life!” Please continue praying after 40 Days for Life concludes on November 2, 2014. God is saving babies and their moms from the deadly choice of abortion. Prayer warriors were there from as far away as Indiana, and many Cincinnati area churches that support 40 Days for Life cover all 12 daylight hours every day for the 40 days. It may look like nothing is happening as you are there praying. For us it is only an hour of our time. But for the child at risk of abortion, it is his or her lifetime. God IS saving lives. Mary Clark, Cincinnati Director of the 40 Days for Life campaign HeartBeat December 2014 Help Support All IHM Youth at the 2015 IHM Winter Gala Vintage Affair — January 31, 2015 T he upcoming 2015 annual IHM Winter Gala is set for Saturday, January 31st from 6:30 – 11:30 PM at Receptions Eastgate. Gather your friends and come to enjoy a wonderful evening of great food, fellowship, entertainment in support of the youth of our parish. The Vintage Affair themed event will feature donations, large and small, transformed into wonderful silent and live auction items. Join us for a wonderful sit-down dinner including an open bar. We will have donated jewelry, trips, autographed balls, Marksmanship Training Day, Principal of the Day, IHM Parking Spot, Walt Disney World tickets, just to name a few! Each year our proceeds create wonderful opportunities for all youth, 1st through 12th grade, in our parish family. • 50% of our Gala funds go to our grade school youth who are financially challenged, to help with tuition assistance. In 6 years, the Gala has raised $106,000 for tuition assistance and has been used to help 73 children attend IHM. 9 Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish Invites You To Attend the 7th Annual Winter Gala Vintage Aair Saturday, January 31, 2015 receptions eastgate 4450 Eastgate Boulevard Cincinnati, Ohio 6:30 To 11:00 in the Evening 6:30 Music & Appetizers 8:30 Dinner 9:30 Live Auction • The remaining 50% funds various middle and high school youth group initiatives and offsets the cost of the parish religion program for youth attending public schools to continue to provide one of the best programs in the Archdiocese. In 6 years, the Gala has raised $70,000 for our Youth Ministry impacting 515 youth and $35,000 for PRP impacting 3325 youth. Last year the Gala raised over $48,000 for the youth and has raised $211,000 since its inception! Together these funds have supported 3,913 IHM Youth! There are many great ways to be involved with the Gala. You can buy a ticket, donate, become a sponsor, or help on the committee for this wonderful parish event! For questions, please contact Kathy DeJaco at 513-260-5078 or [email protected] IHM School Angels By Debbi Hill I mmaculate Heart of Mary School students are celebrating the archdiocesan motto of “Angels Among Us” by wearing T-shirts in class colors on out of uniform days. After a schoolwide contest sixth grader Joey Wheeler’s design was chosen for the T-shirts. Angels Among Us is emphasized at IHM open bar Throughout the Evening Semi-formal Attire Suggested Please RSVP Using the Enclosed Card Proceeds Benefit Our Day School, Religion Program, & Youth Ministry. and evident in classrooms. Staff incorporated a new schoolwide theme of Crusaders C.A.R.E. (Christlike, Accountable, Respectful, Engaged) to partner with the motto. Staff and students alike strive to attain these goals. Recently in physical education class one student was having a difficult time running the mile. This is a junior high class requirement. The student was trying their best and was determined to finish. One, then two, then the whole class joined the student, jogging along and giving encouragement, until the student crossed the finish line. Those students are truly Angels Among Us. Right: Joey Wheeler holds up the T-shirt he designed. 10 HeartBeat December 2014 Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish School Hosts Winter Open House Sunday, January 25, 2015 12:30 PM – 3:00 PM Day School and Preschool 2015 – 2016 Registration • Have you ever wondered if our parish school is the right fit for your child? • Have you heard about our Christ Communities? • Have you met our Student Services Team? • Did you know our 2014 8th graders were awarded $465,905 in high school academic scholarships? O n January 25, 2015, your family will have a perfect opportunity to explore these questions and more. The administration, faculty and staff from both the preschool and day school will be available to explain programs and greet visitors. School parent ambassadors as well as students will be on hand to assist visitors and help the youngest children with our Scavenger Hunt. IHM School and Preschool welcomes students as young as age three. Kindergarten classes are all day, and our day school enjoys solid enrollment with short wait lists for some classes. There are three homerooms for each Grades 1 through 8 with four kindergarten homerooms for the 2015-2016 school year. What can you expect at the Open House? • Guests will be greeted with a welcome flyer including a map of the campus and points of interest. • Each new family will receive an IHM School tote containing information about our school as well as student registration materials for next fall. • The Starlab Planetarium is a popular visiting spot so be ready to enter and be transformed! • Visit the Refreshment Room where families can take a moment to rest before heading to the Kindergarten and Preschool buildings. It will be a wonderful day! If you are interested in our school and would like more information or a tour please contact Debbi Hill. We would love to show you what we can do for your student and welcome you to our school family! [email protected] or 388-3020 website: www.ihomschool.org • Tour guides will be available and teachers will be in every classroom to explain programs and answer questions. • Children are invited to participate in a raffle for gift certificates. We will be ready to greet visitors between 12:30 PM and 3:00 PM to show off our school campus. Families with children who may enroll in the future or parishioners wishing to learn more about our school should stop by for an entertaining afternoon. Pass the word! Invite your neighbors. We are proud of our award winning school. Everyone is welcome. • Young guests will go on a scavenger hunt to collect prizes at various locations around our campus. • See exhibits for various school awards, service projects, drama program, scholarship figures and more. • School and parish programs are also represented (PTO, Boosters, Scouts, American Heritage Girls, etc.). Puppies Throughout IHM School H alloween was a great day for the students and the staff this year at Immaculate Heart of Mary School. The students were greeted by the school principal dressed as Cruella de Ville, two of the support staff dressed as dog catchers and almost 60 teachers, assistants, and secretaries costumed as Dalmatians! Students guessed the number of “puppies” that were present at school that day and the student who guessed the closest in each class won an out of uniform pass. The school decided to connect a stewardship project with the day. They asked for donations for the local animal shelters. Over 600 pounds of dog and cat food and treats, in addition to $135, were donated by IHM families. After school, a few members from the IHM School staff delivered the donations to the League of Animal Welfare No-Kill Shelter and the SPCA Northside Shelter. We have already begun to plan next year’s Halloween theme! December 2014 In Memory of P a r i s hi o n e r s November 9, 2013 through October 29, 2014 HeartBeat 11 My First Christmas in Heaven Author Unknown I see the countless Christmas trees around the world below, Alfred “Al” Vormbrock, Dorothy Higgins, John Horstman, Hubert Rackley, Amy Belock, Mary Ellen Jobes, Remembering Loved Ones Through The Holidays By Jeri Zeek A t this time of the year, we remember those who were buried from this parish since All Saints Day last year. We also remember those who were buried from other parishes whose relatives requested that they be remembered in our prayers. We remember our relatives and friends who will be spending the holidays without their loved ones. Let us also honor those who have lost their lives fighting for our freedom and safety from terrorism around the globe. We pray for members of the military who protect our freedom and selflessly put their lives in harm’s way. May they and their families be in our thoughts and prayers throughout the holidays. We also pray for all families whose loved ones were tragically taken earlier than we ever expected. So many families across the nation will be missing loved ones who will spend the holidays with our Lord this year. None of us whose lives have been touched by those who have passed will ever forget the love and joy they gave us in their lifetime. Their lives mean so much and they will never be forgotten. During the Thanksgiving, Advent, and Christmas seasons, let us thank the Lord for giving us those special people who shared their lives with us, whether for one minute, one day or 100 years. We celebrate the time that God gave us together as husband, wife, mother, father, child, relative or friend, and we rejoice knowing that they share eternity with our Lord. There is no more suffering, pain, or sadness for them, but only love, peace, happiness and joy. The following poem is appropriate at this time of year. It was given to us many years ago by a parishioner who was a member of the Widows Group. May it bring peace to your heart knowing that your loved one is now embraced by the loving arms of the Lord. Because of the many requests each year, copies of this poem (with or without names) are available by emailing [email protected]. With tiny lights, like heaven’s stars, reflecting on the snow, Wendall Sullivan, Margaret Merz, Jane Leavy, Rosemary Sandker, Rose Bowens, Mildred Greiner, The sight is so spectacular, please wipe away that tear. Mary Kay Hemmer, Lucille Hushek, Eleanor Schnurr, Robert Straka, Sr., Kenny Woltermann, For I am spending Christmas with Jesus Christ this year. Mary Nanette Bowling, Ryan Dershak, Joe Massa, John Painter, Fredricka Hamann, Michael Snyder, I hear the many Christmas songs that people hold so dear, Joseph Degaro, Gregory Merz, Martha Rutkowski, George Puening, Ann Bishea, Rick Stuart, Joe Taylor, But the sound of music can’t compare Mary Kathleen “Kathy” Hall, Paul Daeger, Bill Grathwol, Marilyn Labanz, Ann Durbin, Ernest Richards, With the Christmas choir up here. William “Bill” Whalen, James Powers, Richard “Dick” Riehle, Karen Gruppo, Larry McCallion, I have no words to tell you, the joy their voices bring, Mary “Betty” Geraci, Tom Conrad, James Herbst, Adam Richards, Theresa Surran, Donald Considine, For it is beyond description to hear the angels sing. Rosemary Schneider, Bonita “Bonnie” Houlehan, Angelo Trotta, Joan Fisher, Theresa Gillich, William Merk, I know how much you miss me. I see the pain inside your heart. Pat Roth, Anne Dorsey, Marjorie Wess, James Doll, Rlene Everingham, Maureen Macke, Sarah Custer, But I am not so far away. We really aren’t apart. Julia Denison, Doris Salyers, Charles Bell, Eleanor “Ellie” Cunningham, Mary Mackey, Joe Middeler, So be happy for me dear ones. You know I hold you dear. John Robert, Lucille Cornish, Mary Beth Gregg, Elma Heitzman, Donald Herman, Brogan Dulle, And be glad I’m spending Christmas with Jesus Christ this year. Donald Deidesheimer, Merilee Turner, Lillian Scharf, Thi Nguyen, Thomas Siemers, I send you each a special gift from my heavenly home above. Gene Butler, Margie Meyer, J. Patrick Sweeney, Elaine McNeilly, Alexander Espinoza, I send you each a memory of my undying love. Michael McKelly, Joan Cardosi, Angela Bishop, Mary Tonnies, Edward Dill, Clarence Kohnen, After all “Love” is the gift, more precious than pure gold. Audrie Macomber, Alice Cereghino, Joan Sweet, Ronald Stapp, Thomas Meyers, Jr., It was always most important in the stories Jesus told. Carmela “Carme” Christin, Joy Rayburn, Dan Dillon, Art Massa, Charles “Chuck” Blankenship, Please love and keep each other, as my Father said to do. Stewart Hooper, Philomena “Fifi” Chambers, Thomas Bagby, Bernard Burdick, Wayne Cowens, For I can’t count the blessings or love He has for you. Opal Gauselman, Jeanne Heck, Ed Roach, Donald Runte, Richard Aeh, Jane Degaro, William Weber, So have a Merry Christmas and wipe away the tear Florence Wolf, Alfred Bowe, Mary Rudolph, Mary Hirschauer, Phillip Moore, Kelsey Burton, Remember, I’m spending Christmas with Jesus Christ this year. Suzanne Hopper, Robert Bove, Sr., Rosemary Eveslage, Helen Horstman, William McNeese HeartBeat 12 December 2014 Departures Parish Mission Statement We are a welcoming Catholic community centered in the Eucharist, striving to live and share the Good News and grow in discipleship with the Lord. Baptisms August 2014 Zachary Patrick Turnick, son of Kevin and Angela Carson James Frey, son of Michael and Marlene Christopher Dale Williams, son of Richard and Michelle Elise Grace Auer, daughter of Matthew and Cheryl Josephine Doyle, daughter of David and Angela Charles Matthew Whelan, son of James and Sarah Emily Christine Ontaneda, daughter of Miguel and Monica Catherine Ann Walsh, daughter of Sean and Cameron Samantha Fitzgerald Walsh, daughter of Sean and Cameron Charlotte Evelyn Walsh, daughter of Sean and Cameron Allison Grace McGraw, daughter of Michael and Janis Jeevan Carl Dube, son of Ajeet and Shannon September 2014 Noah Jameson Hale, son of Ronald and Susan Nora Jane Schuckman, daughter of David and Ashley Alexis Rae Kuhn, daughter of Brian and Christine Elliott Jackson Arnold, son of Jordan and Theresa Madeline Grace Rimler, daughter of Michael and Kelly Leonardo Muñoz Ayala, son of Hector and Martha Gwendolyn Clare Pompilio, daughter of Jason and Amanda October 2014 David Sullivan Wolfer, son of Jake and Amy Adam Joshua Runte, son of Chris and Jennifer Martin Grau-Garces, son of Marc and Maria Aleysha Sophia Ortiz Almodovar, daughter of Brian and Yahaira Graham Emmett Frericks, son of Anson and Victoria Tristan James Savage, son of James and Alyssa Dominic Salvatore Pastura, son of Tore and Stephanie Mason Trent Meucci, son of Trent and Heather Liam Michael Wolf, son of Ryan and Katie Abigail Louise Ernst, daughter of Neil and Erica Aaron Vite Ruballos, son of Israel and Mayin New Registrations Immaculate Heart of Mary extends a warm welcome to the following new parishioners. We hope that you will come to find peace and joy as you become active members of our worship community. August 2014 Cary & Donna Carrelli and Jack & Josie Ken & Marilyn Bare and Andrew & Savannah Lynn Bauer Andrew & Macaira Bobinger and Brennan Thomas & Patricia Bowling and William & Katelyn Ajeet & Shannon Dube and Jaya, Savitri & Jeevan Richard Fullarton & Elizabeth Frederick and Elliot & Kara Blake & Sarah Herner and Grace Kenneth & Sasha Ingram and Hannah, Aurora & Kendall Jared & Rachel Luttrell Maria Martinez David Moll Jason & Andrea Morman Brian Ortiz & Yahaira Almodovar and Brian & Aleysha Sean & Catherine Plummer and Aiden Dave & Ashley Schuckman and Nora Raul & Anan Tafoya and Brenda, Fernanda, Andrea, Analia & Lilian Scott & Jennifer Thomas and Evangeline & Joseph Richard & Ann Williams Robert & Mary Young and Danielle, Katelyn, Joseph, Seth & Ashlee September 2014 Lisa Bacigalupo Zachary Blasing Eric & Sara Bolser and Dakota & Natalie Andrea Desmier Fermin & Norma Feregrino & Jose Heather Fields and Brady, Damien, Deacon, Jaxon, Falyn & Quelani Brian Harding & Danielle Cirelli Ryan & Holly Holte and Isabel, Abigail & Anna Douglas & Julie Martin and Noah & Merek Francisco Mejia & Adrian & Dominica Trent & Heather Meucci and Mason Salvatore & Stephanie Pastura and Dominic Ryan & Laura Potts and Jake Adam & Marie Ryan Drew & Brielyn Schafer Bradford & Terri Smith and Jason, Kelsie, Kylie & Jacob James & Libby Stocks and Donovan, Ivey & Xavier Michael & Alexis Suter Gabriel Torres & Elena Hernandez and Carlos, Carol & Allison October 2014 Andrew & Liane Beard Ethan Arnold & Jolie Hasselbeck and Danielle Todd & Karen Braun and Garrett & Addison Ernest & Patricia Dawe Brian & Kristen Florko and Vivian & Annabelle Nicole Hulbert Richard & Heather Kaiser Todd & Jennifer Lafkas and Zac, Andrew, Hunter & Emma John & Gina Lindblad Laura Schwietering Brent & Elizabeth Sebesy Chris & Laura Witt and Sloan & Bronson Immaculate Heart of Mary bids good wishes and farewell for now to the following parishioners who have left our parish. May our Lord guide you as you join new worship communities and face all of the challenges associated with any change. We shall keep you in our prayers and look forward to the possibility of your future visits or a return to IHM. August 2014 Tom & Barb Benkert Donald & Marie Clark and Ethan Anthony Elias & Christine Tam and Matthew, Michael & Andrew Marcos & Agne Ferraz and Gabriel Kristy King Jeff Roche & Kristen Edward Ruffennach Nicholas & Jennifer Schildmeyer and Ian & Nick Joseph & Junida Sta Romana and Jolina & Joey John & Cynthia Vujcec and Evan September 2014 Joan Bennett William Cameron Allen & Louise Deisch Kevin & Julie Dietrich and Livvie, Ian & Maiya Betty Goldschmidt Mark & Rachelle Gray and Cullen, Spencer & Meredith Tim & Pan Hackett Mario & Yana Ignatova and Ian & Lara Michael & Phyllis Persicano Michael & Christine Tucker David & Lisa Weber and Brian October 2014 Frederick & Barbara Betz Elizabeth Blankenship Mary Fay Tom & Nancy Frankenfield Mark & Elizabeth Hall and Alexandra, Stephanie & Jack Joseph & Tracy Heller and Sophia & Michael Jason & Tammy Honnert and Jake & Jarret Elaine Mueninghoff Sean & Carrie Rash and Hayley, Nate, Taylor, Alec & Caitlin Kevin & Laura Schmidt Nelson & Pamela Seip HeartBeat A publication of Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish 7770 Beechmont Ave., Cincinnati, Ohio 45255 Phone: 513-388-4466 Pastor: Fr. Tom Kreidler Editor: Roxanne Barnes Designer: John Nagy Staff Liaison: Michelle Peters Published four times a year Next deadline: January 26, 2015 arriving in homes mid-March.
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