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Fielmente recaudando
fondos para la
educación católica
MARCH 2019 VOL. XII NO. VIII diocesetucson.org — ver pagina 18
Death & Dying
Church teaching on cremation
- See page 10
The 2019 Annual Catholic Appeal relies on us — See page 3
2 CATHOLIC OUTLOOK LENT 2019 MARCH 2019
Questions and answers about
Lent and Lenten practices
From usccb.org
Q. Why do we say that there are 40 days of
Lent? When you count all the days from Ash
Wednesday through Holy Saturday, there are 46.
A season of reflection, preparation, and renewal
A. It might be more accurate to say that
there is the “40-day fast within Lent.”
Historically, Lent has varied from a week to
Lenten regulations for fasting and abstinence three weeks to the present configuration of 46
days. The 40-day fast, however, has been more
Ash Wednesday (March 6) and Good Friday 59. When fasting, a person is permitted to eat stable. The Sundays of Lent are certainly part
(April 19) are obligatory days of fasting and one full meal, as well as two smaller meals that of the time of Lent, but they are not prescribed
abstinence for Catholics. In addition, Fridays together are not equal to a full meal. The norms days of fast and abstinence.
during Lent are obligatory days of abstinence. concerning abstinence from meat are binding
For members of the Roman Catholic Church, upon members from age 14. Q. So does that mean that when we give
the norms on fasting are obligatory for ages 18- something up for Lent, such as candy, we can
have it on Sundays?
Rice bowl provides Lenten reflections easy to digest A. Apart from the prescribed days of fast
and abstinence on Ash Wednesday and Good
For Catholics seeking to experience a deeper spirituality this Lent, Catholic Relief Services offers a variety Friday, and the days of abstinence every Friday
of exercises through its Lenten almsgiving program, Operation Rice Bowl. of Lent, Catholics have traditionally chosen
It can be found through the “Reflections” tab at the organization’s website, crsricebowl.org. additional penitential practices for the whole
Following is a sample of the items for reflection: time of Lent. These practices are disciplinary
in nature and often more effective if they are
What is Lent? continuous, i.e., kept on Sundays as well. That
Lent is our time of preparation. A 40-day journey of being said, such practices are not regulated by
prayer, fasting and almsgiving, Lent is a journey that the Church, but by individual conscience.
spans Ash Wednesday through Holy Week, culminating
in the great celebration of Easter. As Catholics, the Q. I understand that Catholics ages 18-59
spiritual pillars of prayer, fasting and almsgiving guide should fast on Ash Wednesday and on Good
us in daily reflection on our own lives as we strive to Friday, but what exactly are the rules for
deepen our relationship with God and neighbor. these fasts?
A. Fasting on these days means we can have
What should I give up for Lent? only one full, meatless meal. Some food can
be taken at the other regular meal times if
The “Catechism of the Catholic Church” invites necessary but combined they should be less
Catholics to abstain from meat during the Fridays in than a full meal. Liquids are allowed at any
Lent. In addition to meatless Fridays, Catholics are also time, but no solid food should be consumed
invited to offer daily sacrifices. By giving up little things between meals.
we make room for God to act in our lives in new ways.
Q. Are there exemptions other
than for age from the
requirement to fast on Ash
Lenten alms change lives Wednesday and Good
Our almsgiving has the power to transform the world. During Lent, CRS Friday?
Rice Bowl invites you to reflect on some of the lives that are changed through
A. Those that are
Lenten almsgiving. Read stories of hope from Guatemala, Uganda, Sri Lanka,
excused from fast
Sierra Leone and Gaza - and be sure to reflect with your family using and abstinence
our Lenten family resources. outside the age
limits include
Holy Week the physically
or mentally
Palm Sunday marks the beginning of Holy Week, one of the most
ill including
significant moments of the Church year. During this week, we journey individuals
with Christ from his triumphant entry into Jerusalem to his final meal suffering from
with his closest friends and ultimately to his death on the cross. As we walk chronic illnesses
with Jesus through Holy Week, we call to mind the countless men, women such as diabetes.
and children who even today carry heavy crosses: crosses of hunger, of Also excluded are
homelessness, of a lack of resources or security. In these brothers and sisters, pregnant or nursing
we encounter Christ, Christ who continues to walk that long road to Calvary. women. In all cases,
common sense should
prevail, and ill persons
Stations of the Cross should not further jeopardize
Journey with Jesus to Calvary with these Catholic social teaching inspired Stations of the their health by fasting.
Cross. There is also a Lenten retreat available, called “Companions on the Journey.”
MARCH 2019 CATHOLIC OUTLOOK 3
The 2019 Annual Catholic Appeal relies on help from all of us
By MICHAEL BROWN Nedder said. trains parish and ministry leaders
Managing Editor Contributions to the Appeal also and provides educational materials
It is very possible you have heard pay for other significant expenses, on safe environments for all people
this plea: “Support the works of including tuition for seminarians, in their care, ranging from children
mercy.” which costs about $40,000 per year. to vulnerable adults.
Leaders of the 2019 Annual Prison ministry and support “We want to make sure that all
Catholic Appeal hope the message for families who find themselves children, youths and vulnerable
is familiar as it promotes the annual unexpectedly homeless are also adults are safe,” Nedder said.
campaign. ministries that receive strong He said he was confident that
Citing the theme of “Living our diocesan support, Nedder added. the 2019 Appeal would succeed
Faith through Acts of Charity,” “The wonderful thing about our because Catholics around the
Catholic Foundation Interim communities is how the people trust Diocese recognize the importance
Director Ernie Nedder noted that their pastors ,” he said. The success of the services the diocesan Church
when it comes to performing of the Appeal depends upon the provides.
the works of mercy, the Diocese success of that relationship. “The people of God are the
can address broader needs that Nedder acknowledged that some Church,” Nedder said.
individual parishes cannot. “We rely US dioceses have had to deal with The 2018 Annual Catholic Appeal
on the support of Catholics in those negative headlines arising from fell just below goal, with $3,997,304,
parishes to provide the resources to a new wave of reports involving after three straight years of
perform those works of mercy.” clergy sex abuse. However, in the increases. In 2017, aided by several
meals. The Knights of Columbus
Whether it is the $500,000 Diocese of Tucson, not only have bequests, the Appeal finished at
also support those and other local
the Appeal disburses to Catholic the bishops, priests and lay leaders $4,268,384. That followed the 2016
works of mercy. However, parishes
Community Services, or the been pro-active on the issue, but and 2015 Appeals, which came
meeting community members’
$250,000 it sends to sustain the Appeal also funds the Office in at $4,037,140 and $4,003,024,
immediate physical needs may defer
poor parishes, Nedder said the of Child, Adolescent and Adult respectively.
plant maintenance or be unable to
Appeal’s success all starts with the Protection, more commonly known For more information about
financially afford large unexpected
relationship that Catholics have as the Protection Office. Among its the Appeal and parish goals, visit
capital expenses.
with their own parish. other responsibilities, that office cathfnd.org.
“We need to help those parishes
Nedder noted that many parishes
and the challenges they face,”
run food pantries or provide holiday
The Diocese of Tucson , its parishes or ministries do not support or advocate on behalf of this tour company
and are not liable for its actions. Consumers are encouraged to research all tour packages and cancellation
details before making business decisions.
In your area
4 CATHOLIC OUTLOOK MARCH 2019
form the faith of their children, including how event will be led by the pastor, Father Alonzo
DIOCESAN EVENTS to relate lovingly with teenagers, young adults Garcia. The celebration includes singing by the
Charismatic renewal gathering at Sacred Heart and adult children who separate themselves choir, Scripture readings, praying a special “Ave
Thursday, March 14, 6:30 p.m., Sacred Heart from the Church. “The Sacred Balancing Act: Maria” scriptural rosary and a special pre-Easter
Church, 601 E. Fort Lowell Road, Tucson Busy Lives and Family Spirituality” is the second homily. During the celebration, 10 people will
The Diocese of Tucson Renewal Committee in the Luthen Lecture Series sponsored by the sit at the altar and take turns reading Scripture
will hold its monthly “Alive in Christ” event Jordan Ministry team. Hendey is founder of and then pray a Hail Mary. The process will be
with the theme “Our Spiritual Battle.” All are CatholicMom.com, a bestselling author of books repeated for each of the Joyful mysteries. Three
welcome to joyfully praise and worship with for adults and children and serves as editor-at- Hail Mary’s will be prayed in Spanish. After each
song, Scripture readings and words. For more large for Ave Maria Press. For more information, decade, the choir will sing a short version of Ave
information, call Gloria at (520) 237-7060 or visit JordanMinistry.org or call (520) 623-2563. Maria. “Behold Thy Mother” was created to bring
visit tucsonccr.org. the rosary to the next level. It marks the capstone
PIMA SOUTH VICARIATE of a yearlong program promoting the rosary to
National blogger speaking at St. Thomas parishioners.
Thursday, March 28, 7 p.m., St. Thomas Church, St. Margaret Mary holds Lenten fish dinners
5150 N. Valley View Road, Tucson Fridays in Lent, 4-7 p.m., St. Margaret Mary PIMA EAST VICARIATE
Blogger Lisa Hendey delivers a model for busy Parish, 801 N. Grande Ave., Tucson
families partnering with their parish, school and The menu varies weekly, with the dinners
communities, providing tools to more efficiently sponsored by various parish ministries. All Contemplative prayer group at St. Pius X
proceeds from the sales benefit the parish. For Mondays, March 4-April 22, 6:30-8:30 p.m., St. Pius
the menu items each week, call the parish as 622- X Parish, 1800 N. Camino Pio Decimo, Tucson
0168. For more information, call the parish office,
(520) 885-3573.
‘My Broken Christ’ to play at San Miguel
Saturday, April 27, 4 p.m. (English) and 7 p.m.
(Spanish), San Miguel Catholic High School,
6601 S. San Fernando Road, Tucson
“My Broken Christ,” a one-man play, will
be sponsored by Our Lady of Fatima Parish.
It is based on a book by Jesuit Father Ramon
Cue. Tickets range from $10-$50 and can be
purchased online at Eventbrite.com/O/Our-Lady-
of-Fatima-Parish-18499057248.
PINAL WEST VICARIATE
St. Helen’s sets scriptural prayer service
Outlook photo courtesy of the Office of Child, Adolescent and Adult Protection. Monday, March 25, 7-8 p.m., St. Helen of the
Compliance officers from around the Diocese gathered
Jan. 26 at Most Holy Trinity Parish, Tucson for their annual
Cross Parish, 205 W. 8th St., Eloy
convocation. From left are compliance officers Rick Sanchez The parish celebrates the Annunciation
Outlook photo by Iliana Gonzales
from Blessed Sacrament, Mammoth and Marci Krogstad from with “Behold Thy Mother,” a holy hour of
St. Elizabeth Ann Seton, Tucson; office Director Rosemary Representatives from St. Odilia Parish in Tucson
prayer, contemplation and celebration. The were among the participants in the annual March for
Celaya-Alston; presenter Andy Maurer; and compliance officer
Diane Espinoza from Our Lady of the Valley, Green Valley.
service will be preceded by an opportunity for Life in Tucson on Jan. 19. About 900 attended the
reconciliation and eucharistic adoration. The annual Respect Life Mass celebrated in St. Augustine
Cathedral, preceding the march.
Bishop’s Calendar – MARCH 2019
MARCH 10 3 p.m. - Rite of Election - St. Augustine Cathedral
2 10 a.m. - Confirmation, St. Jude Church, San Luis 12-14 Newly-ordained five years of less mentoring program,
Redemptorist Renewal Center
4 p.m. -Confirmation, St. John Neumann Church, Yuma
17 10 a.m. - Mass for the Kino Heritage Society, St. Augustine
3 3 p.m. - “Alive in the Savior” Award, Jordan Ministry Team,
Cathedral
Viscount Suite Hotel, Tucson
18-20 Catholic Rural Life strategic planning retreat in
4 10 a.m. - Ongoing formation for priests, Redemptorist
Minneapolis
Renewal Center, Tucson
30 11 a.m. - Confirmation, St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic
5 11 a.m. - Catholic Foundation, 2019 Grant Award ceremony,
School, Tucson
TEP Building, Tucson
31 9 a.m. - Confirmation, St. Francis of Assisi Church, Superior
6 Noon - Ash Wednesday Mass, St. Augustine Cathedral,
Tucson 2 p.m. - Confirmation, St. George Church, Apache Junction
8 Noon - Mass, Catholic Community Services, Tucson APRIL
9 11 a.m. - Confirmation, St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church, 2 4 p.m. - Knights of the Holy Sepulchre, semiannual meeting,
Tucson Skyline County Club, Tucson
MARCH 2019 Obituaries CATHOLIC OUTLOOK 5
Grace Lohr Investing.
She was an assessor for the
County Assessor’s Office and she
was a private assessor. She was also It’s about more than money. It’s about your future.
Guitarist and vocalist a driver for Uber and Lyft. Stocks | Bonds | Mutual Funds | Annuities | CDs | IRAs | IRA Rollovers
well-known in Diocese She is predeceased by her mother UITs | Retirement Plans | Cash Management | Financial Planning
Born Dec. 6, 1961, to Juan and and a brother Jorge. She is survived
Angelita Amaro, she attended the by her father, her husband Charles Ben Palazzo
University of Arizona. and son Patrick. She is also survived Senior Vice President/Investments
Lohr had also served as an by brothers Juan, Dan, Estevan Branch Manager
assistant to and Alex; sisters Angela Murrieta, (520) 209-7400 | (877) 879-3156 Toll-Free
diocesan Yolanda Martinez, Josie Anna, Alicia palazzob@stifel.com
Pastoral Services Garaygordobil and Lourdes Leon; 4380 N. Campbell Avenue, Suite 201
Tucson, Arizona 85718
Director and many nieces and nephews.
Celebrating 32 Years!
Dominican A vigil was held Feb. 7 in St.
Stifel, Nicolaus & Company, Incorporated | Member SIPC & NYSE | www.stifel.com
Sister Lois Paha, Elizabeth Ann Seton Church
and as parish followed the next day with a Mass
music director
at St. John the
of Christian Burial. Interment will
be at Holy Hope Cemetery at a later St. Joseph’s Youth Camp
Evangelist, St. Elizabeth Ann Seton date. Rooted in Tradition and Values
and St. Odilia’s. 23 miles southeast of Flagstaff at Mormon Lake
Register Campers ages 8-15 NOW and SAVE $50
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The Diocese of Tucson, its parishes or ministries do not support or advocate on behalf of this tour company and are not liable for its actions.
Consumers are encouraged to research all tour packages and cancellation details before making business decisions.
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6 CATHOLIC OUTLOOK
Obituaries MARCH 2019
Msgr. Robert Fuller, beloved homilist and pastor, dies Jan. 23
TUCSON, Arizona — Msgr. Robert D. help.
Fuller, editor of the Arizona Register diocesan “I cannot tell you what a great friend Bob was
newspaper and known also for his inspirational to our family, to all families,” Click said, adding
eight-minute homilies, died Jan. 23 at age 88. “He was a great man of God. Everybody he
Born Sept. 8, 1930, in Keokuk, Iowa to Dwight touched he made a difference. I told him that last
and Gladys (Kibble) Fuller, he attended parochial night.”
elementary schools in Keokuk and Marshalltown, Click visited with the priest the evening before
Iowa before moving to Tucson with his family, Msgr. Fuller’s passing.
where he attended Local priests also recalled
Immaculate Heart his service.
Academy and Sts. Peter Msgr. Thomas Cahalane,
and Paul Catholic School pastor of Our Mother of
before he graduated from Sorrows Parish in Tucson,
Tucson Senior High said Msgr. Fuller was one
School in 1948. of his oldest friends here.
He entered seminary at “He was the first priest who
the Los Angeles College greeted me when I got off Msgr. Robert Fuller
Junior Seminary and the airplane 56 years ago.”
St. John Seminary in “We became close Diocesan Tribunal
1957-62
Camarillo, California, and and fast friends, kindred
was ordained a priest on spirits,” Msgr. Cahalane
Chancellor, Diocese of Tucson
April 25, 1956, in Sts. said.
1962-70
Peter and Paul Church by Catholic Outlook file photo The priests had visited
Bishop Francis Green. Msgr. Robert D. Fuller the day before Msgr. Editor, Arizona Register
He was assistant pastor Fuller’s death, which Msgr. 1963-65
at Queen of Peace, Mesa, 1956-57, before the Cahalane called “painfully graced.”
erection of the Diocese of Phoenix. “It was Bob’s time to go and he was very, very Executive Director, RENEW
He served in the diocesan Tribunal (1957-62), aware of it.” 1981-86
director of the Bureau of Information, which Msgr. Cahalane recalled that upon entering
later became the diocesan Communications Msgr. Fuller’s room, Msgr. Fuller said, “‘An angel Pastor, St. Frances Cabrini
Office, and as chancellor for the Diocese (1962- has brought you here.’ It was a real experience of 1987-2018
70). grace for me.”
He was appointed editor and business manager When Msgr. Fuller retired from St. Frances
of the Arizona Register on June 7, 1963, after last summer, Msgr. Cahalane said, “his heart was University of Arizona Newman Center and was
serving as assistant editor in 1961-63. telling him to continue, but his body was telling assigned to the diocesan Tribunal. Msgr. Fuller
He was given the title of monsignor in 1965, him no.” was also a chaplain for the St. Thomas More
with his investiture on Dec. 16 that year. Msgr. Fuller had a great gift of language, being Society for Catholic lawyers.
Msgr. Fuller also was administrator at All able to express truths in ways people could Msgr. Fuller was honored at a 2015 dinner to
“
Saints, Tucson (1965-69), and at St. Augustine understand. raise money for retired priests.
Cathedral in 1969. He was the founding pastor at “He was able to communicate things in the He was also a guest of honor at the 2008
St. Pius X, serving moment Catholic Foundation Cornerstone Gala.
from 1970-81. they were When asked what were highlights of his many
Msgr. Fuller left “I cannot tell you what a great happening. It’s years as a priest, Msgr. Fuller said, “It’s filled with
Tucson for five friend Bob was to our family, to all a unique gift, what I see are highlights - every baptism, every
years, 1981-86, to being able to wedding is a highlight.”
work for RENEW, families, ... he was a great man of communicate “It’s my privilege to proclaim God’s Word
an organization God. Everybody he touched he made a and articulate and bring it into (people’s) lives,” he said. “The
based in Newark, the here and Church isn’t just the priests. It’s the people of
N.J. difference. I told him that last night.” now, while God who are the Church.”
He returned - Jim Click still being in Msgr. Fuller is survived by a sister, Peggy
to Tucson in the present Angelastro (Mike) of California; sisters-in-law
1987 to serve as pastor at St. Frances Cabrini, moment,” Msgr. Cahalane said, “just like his Dora Fuller and Rose Marie Fuller; nephews
Tucson, where he was a master of “eight-minute homilies.” Dr. Greg Fuller (Denise) and Robert Fuller
homilies.” He retired as pastor in 2018 after Salvatorian Father Bill Remmel, who assisted (Sandy); great-nephews Shawn and Alan; and
more than 30 years. He served as the vicar for Msgr. Fuller at St. Frances Cabrini, said, “I nieces Sarena, Jennifer and Julia. Monsignor was
Education and as the vicar for Pima Central always looked up to him and his wisdom,” said predeceased by brothers Milton and Cyrus, and
parishes part of that time. “Recently, he would celebrate Mass about once by a sister, Nikki Marshall.
He subsequently published a series of books a week and a lot of people would come to hear A vigil service was held, Jan. 31 at St. Frances
called “Homilies from the Heart,” with proceeds him.” Cabrini Church. A Mass of Christian Burial was
benefitting the Casa Maria Soup Kitchen for low- Among Msgr. Fuller’s many areas of ministry celebrated Feb. 1 in St. Augustine Cathedral.
income residents. was also Catholic marriage. He would speak Bishop Edward J. Weisenburger was the main
Auto dealer Jim Click and his wife, Vicki, knew at gatherings for married couples that were concelebrant; Msgr. Cahalane was the homilist.
Msgr. Fuller as a pastor and a friend for decades. sponsored by the international Christian Family Interment followed in Holy Hope Cemetery.
When Click became Catholic, it was with his Movement, taught marriage courses at the
MARCH 2019 CATHOLIC OUTLOOK 7
Faithfully raising funds for Catholic education
Gracie Quiroz Marum is a force for good at the Catholic Tuition Scholarship Organization
By MICHAEL BROWN smart. … She’s always on the cutting
Managing Editor edge.”
The Catholic Tuition Scholarship Marum saw the advantage
Organization turned 20 years old, a of inviting corporate donors to
benchmark celebrated at a dinner participate in the education tax
in February. break at a time when people in
CTSO board members and other scholarship organizations
leaders attribute the success of the were targeting individuals. She
agency to its longtime executive had already gotten a leg up on
director, Gracie Quiroz Marum. individual givers by targeting tax
Marcy Euler, president of the preparers and financial advisors,
CTSO Board of Directors, noted providing them with information
that Marum has been with the that they could pass along to clients.
group since the beginning, even “That was just brilliant,” Euler
when she was still formally working said. “She’s an innovator who
on the Annual Catholic Appeal in listens to her board members.”
the diocesan Development Office. Euler recounted a conversation
Marum’s work has been more Outlook photo by Steff Koeneman she had with Marum, asking her
than just soliciting businesses for CTSO Executive Director Gracie Quiroz Marum shows her surprise at being publicly honored at to identify the executive director’s
donations, Euler said. Marum was a the Catholic Schools Seton Award Endowment Dinner and CTSO 20th Anniversary Gala Dinner greatest accomplishments. Euler
held at the Marriott Starr Pass Resort in Tucson Feb. 1. Marum has been a driving force at CTSO
force in recommending updates to since its founding. said Marum started with dollars
the various tuition support raised: CTSO started with $1
always oriented toward making not have been able to send their
legislation over the years, including million and 800 donors the first
Catholic education affordable. children to Catholic schools and
that which allowed corporate year, compared to $13 million and
“Her passion has been serving get a quality education,” said Euler.
donations. Her priorities have See MARUM on page 8
families who otherwise would “She’s dynamic, compassionate and
Cuffari receives Seton Award at Catholic Schools dinner
Lynn Cuffari received the 32nd annual St. In 1982, she earned a Journalism degree from
Elizabeth Ann Seton Award for her “history of the University of Arizona.
dedicated service, support and leadership within In 1983, she married Joseph Cuffari, an Air
the Diocese of Tucson Catholic Schools.” Force officer. While stationed in Naples, Italy,
The award was given at the third annual Lynn earned her master’s in education from
Catholic Schools Endowment Dinner at the Framingham State University of Massachusetts,
Marriot Starr Pass Resort Feb. 1. which had a program for military families
Also honored was the Catholic Tuition stationed overseas. The family relocated
Support Organization (CTSO), marking its 20th to Yuma in 1997 and Cuffari was hired at
anniversary. Immaculate Conception Catholic School,
Cuffari said her education career began in the teaching computers and language arts.
utility room of her childhood home in Easton, In 2001, after a move to Tucson, she joined
Maryland, where she and her sisters would the faculty at Immaculate Heart as a middle
Outlook photo courtesy of St. Augustine High School spend many hours “playing school” on rainy school English and literature teacher. In 2006,
Lynn Cuffari, principal of St. Augustine High School and days when they could not go outside. she became the principal; five years later,
2019 Seton Award winner, poses with Bishop Edward J. Her family later moved to Arizona and she she was appointed principal at St. Augustine
Weisenburger at the Catholic Schools Endowment Dinner. graduated from high school in Phoenix in 1978. Catholic High School.
8 CATHOLIC OUTLOOK MARCH 2019
Schools’ Dahl to receive national education award
Diocesan Superintendent of Schools Sheri education is accessible and affordable to any
Dahl will receive a 2019 “Lead. Learn. Proclaim.” family that desires it for their children,” Dahl said.
Award from the National Catholic Educational “I am really proud of how hard the staff, pastors
Association (NCEA) for dedication and and principals have worked to make people aware
commitment to excellence in Catholic education. of these programs and to be their advocates.”
Dahl is one of 27 recipients chosen from more In nominating Dahl, many of those supporters
than 150,000 teachers, administrators, diocesan spoke highly of her efforts.
leaders and organizations dedicated to the nation’s “Efforts over the years have not only increased
Catholic schools. She will receive the award during school enrollment – keeping some schools on the
the annual NCEA 2019 Convention & Expo, April verge of closing open – but have made quality
23-25 in Chicago. Catholic education a possibility for different
The annual award honors those in Catholic underserved student populations,” wrote Assistant
school education who have demonstrated a strong Superintendent Barbara Monsegur.
Catholic educational philosophy, exceptional “Her vision of excellence, partnered with
efforts, dedication and achievements. her expertise, willingness to listen, observe,
Dahl was hired in 2010 as assistant collaborate and analyze different situations being
superintendent before becoming superintendent faced by school communities has proven to be
in 2014. She serves on the board of directors invaluable in terms of the benefit to principals,
for Western Catholic Educational Association pastors, teachers and the Department of Catholic
(WCEA) and she is also a WCEA Elementary Schools,” wrote Bishop Edward J. Weisenburger in
Commissioner. his letter recommending Dahl for the award.
Dahl said she was grateful for the recognition St. Augustine Catholic High School Principal
“
and credits the Catholic Schools’ office team, Lynn Cuffari credited Dahl for seeing Catholic Catholic Outlook photo by Steff Koeneman
school principals and other leaders for the success Sheri Dahl
of southern Arizona Catholic schools. maintaining a focus on our Catholic identity.”
“Most rewarding to me has been working with Dahl even received a letter of support from out-
incredible school leaders and witnessing the We are trying to let people of-state.
positive impact their leadership development has
on their school communities,” Dahl said. “That is
know that Catholic education Karen Barreras, superintendent of Catholic
schools for the Diocese of Reno, Nevada, wrote
the essence and joy of my role as superintendent.” is accessible and affordable to that she first met Dahl through their membership
Dahl said that joint effort, especially when any family that desires it for in the regional Western Catholic Educational
getting out the message of the affordability Association. The two shared an embrace of the
of Catholic education, has increased diocesan their children,” Dahl said. Alliance for Catholic Education (ACE), a program
enrollment by 10 percent since 2013. from the University of Notre Dame that helps
With greater emphasis placed on educating struggling schools in mission dioceses.
parents and school supporters about the benefits education’s big picture and applying it to “This exemplified Sheri’s commitment to
of Empowerment Scholarships and donations individual school settings. “The professional Catholic education with high academic standards,
to the Catholic Tuition Support Organization, development opportunities she and her team have especially important in mission dioceses that do
enrollment jumped nearly 600 students. brought to the principals is targeted to strategies not have the resources to develop or pay for high-
“We are trying to let people know that Catholic we can specifically implement – all while quality professional development,” Barreras wrote.
MARUM continued from page 7 story about Marum was when a Catholic
6,000 donors last year. “Over the years, she has
school outside greater Tucson was undergoing CTSO started with $1
personnel changes, and the staff had not
raised $124 million in scholarships,” Euler said. collected scholarship applications for any of the million and 800 donors
Marum said her second greatest
accomplishment was keeping administrative
students. the first year, compared
“She (Marum) called me and (longtime CTSO
costs down. Euler recounted. Tuition employee) Julieta Gonzalez and we went there to $13 million and 6,000
Scholarship Organizations are allowed to use
10 percent of revenues for administrative costs;
ourselves to fill out the applications. By the end donors last year. “Over the
of the day, every single student had been done.”
CTSO holds the line at five percent. “That gives “She’s always thinking ahead,” Nedder said.
years, she has raised $124
you much more money for school assistance.” “She’s always thinking about what more she can million in scholarships,”
A third point of pride is helping to keep do.”
struggling Catholic schools open. Euler said Ginny L. Clements, past CTSO president,
Euler said.
that before Marum’s work on CTSO, as many as called Marum “the hardest worker I know. She tirelessly she worked to do the right things,
three Catholic schools were in danger of closing loves what she does, and it shows in what she managing each dollar entrusted to her care. I am
because of low enrollment. “Now those schools has accomplished in the past 20 years of helping extremely proud of her accomplishments and
are at or near capacity,” she said. children who want a Catholic education.” proud to call her my friend,” Clements said.
Ernie Nedder, interim executive director “As a past president of the CTSO, I saw how
of the Catholic Foundation, said his favorite
MARCH 2019 LIFE AROUND THE DIOCESE CATHOLIC OUTLOOK 9
Outlook photo by Michael Brown
1 Outlook photo courtesy of Julieta Gonzalez 2
5 Outlook photo by Michael Brown 3 Outlook photo by Michael Brown
1. San Miguel High School senior David Amerson
addresses the crowd including hundreds of Catholic school
students at a Catholic Schools Week rally in Phoenix Jan.
30.
2.Bart Pemberton, of the Msgr. Donald H. Hughes
Assembly Knights of Columbus, gives Bishop Edward J.
Weisenburger a check Feb. 6 in the Diocesan Pastoral
Center, representing the proceeds from the annual fund-
raising dinner Jan. 20. The check, for $19,483, will go to
help support diocesan seminary education.
3. Bishop Weisenburger joined St. Augustine Catholic
High School, Tucson, leaders, in blessing a new wing of 4
classrooms at the school Jan. 23. From left are Principal
Lynn Cuffari, school board President Richard Schaefer and
school President David Keller.
4.Bishop Weisenburger was the main celebrant for the
annual Mass of Jubilees for Professed Religious at Sts. Peter
and Paul Church, Tucson, Feb. 3, and attended a lunch
afterward in their honor. From left are Jesuit Father Sean
Carroll, Franciscan Brother David Paz, Capuchin Father
John Francis Samsa, Missionary Servants of the Most
Holy Trinity Brother Andres Rivera, Franciscan Sister of
Christian Charity Leonette Kochan, Bishop Weisenburger,
Franciscan Sister of Christian Charity Mary Beth Kornely,
Jesuit Brother Guy Consolmagno, Sister of St. Francis of
Mary Immaculate Karen Berry, Jesuit Father Paul Gabor
and Immaculate Heart of Mary Sister Francesca Marti.
5. A St. Ambrose Catholic School fourth graders and
mariachi players Alyssa Gonsalez and Jaeden Moreno listen
to Msgr. Jeremiah McCarthy, moderator of the Curia, prior
to performing at the Diocesan Pastoral Center Jan. 29 as
part of the school’s Catholic Schools Week celebration.
Photos on the Santa Cruz Parish anniversary will appear in
the April issue of the Catholic Outlook. Outlook photo by Michael Brown
10 CATHOLIC OUTLOOK CREMATION MARCH 2019
Frequently asked questions:
Q. What should I do when a loved one dies?
A. When death occurs, after you provide
for the initial care of the body by calling the
appropriate authorities - if applicable - and
the physician, you then should call the funeral
home of your choice to make an appointment
to discuss the funeral arrangements.
You then need to call the cemetery and
make an appointment to finalize the
burial arrangements. Once the “business” calls
are made, you should then call the relatives of
the deceased to begin the process of notifying
the family.
Q. How soon after death should a person be
buried?
A. Laws vary from state to state and some
limit the maximum time allowed before final
disposition of an unembalmed body. However,
today many funeral homes have refrigeration
available and can keep a body for an indefinite
amount of time. If a traditional funeral is
desired, some of the things that must be
considered include securing official permits
and authorizations, placement of death notices,
notifying friends and family, preparation of
the burial site and religious requirements. Your
funeral director will be well-versed on the
regulations.
Q. What happens to a grave site after
burial?
A. Graves are filled in a three-step
process after the interment. After each third
of the grave dirt is placed back into the grave,
the soil is tamped and compacted. Settling may
occur but is kept to a minimum because of
the procedures used to compact the soil.
Graves in grass areas are sodded or seeded in
the spring or in the fall (generally during the
months of March through May and September Other online resources:
through November). If there is concern about What to do when a loved one dies:
the appearance of the grave, please notify the https://www.aarp.org/home-family/friends-family/info-06-2012/when-loved-one-dies-checklist.
cemetery office and we can discuss it with you. html
When a parent dies, this is a resource from American Hospice about how adult children can
Q. When I buy a grave, do I receive a deed? help the surviving spouse:
https://americanhospice.org/working-through-grief/helping-a-grieving-parent/
A. No. The purchase of a grave is really the
purchase of the “Interment Right” which When an estranged child, now an adult, needs to be told about a parent’s death, from
is the right to designate who may be buried in rejectedparents.net:
https://www.rejectedparents.net/telling-an-estranged-adult-child-about-a-family-members-death-
that grave and what kind of memorial is to be
do-they-have-a-right-to-know/
placed, subject to what the cemetery’s rules
permit. You’re not really purchasing the grave An article from Psychology Today describing how children process the idea of death:
itself. The grave remains the property and https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/hard-realities/201301/how-do-children-comprehend-
responsibility of the cemetery. the-concept-death
A list of other resources courtesy of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia:
For more information, visit dotcc.org.
http://phillycatholiclife.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Some-Good-Resources-on-Grief-and-
Loss-012111.pdfMARCH 2019 CREMATION CATHOLIC OUTLOOK 11
Church’s teaching on funerals with cremated remains
By Sister Lois Paha and on the care of the cremated columbarium. The practice of prayers at the passing of these
Msgr. Jeremiah McCarthy remains including their presence scattering cremated remains on loved ones from life on earth to
The “Order of Christian at the Mass of Christian Burial. the sea, from the air, or on the eternal life. “This is the body once
Funerals” in the Catholic Church Among end of life issues ground, or keeping cremated washed in baptism and anointed
contains the prayers and directives when planning the details of the remains in the home of a relative with the oil of salvation and fed
for the care of our deceased loved funeral service, cremation can or friend of the deceased are with the Bread of Life. This is the
ones. In three parts, it offers the sometimes be overlooked or left not the reverent disposition that body whose hands clothed the
Welcoming of the Body and the to someone else to carry out. The the Church requires.” (“Order of poor and embraced the sorrowing.
celebration of a Vigil, prayers and 1997 cremation directives call for Christian Funerals,” Appendix ...Thus, the Church’s reverence
remembrances on the evening the same respect for the cremated II, 417, 1997). The instruction and care for the body grows out
before the Funeral Mass; and the remains we give to the body of the also reminds us that the place of of a reverence and concern for
Funeral Mass; followed by the deceased. The remains should be entombment should be marked the person whom the Church now
Committal Service. This rite has placed in a worthy vessel which in a way to memorialize the commends to the care of God.”
been used since 1989; however, is brought to the service with the deceased. (“Order of Christian Funerals,”
at an earlier time, the Catholic same dignity given to the coffin Why does the Church offer Appendix II, 1997)
Church did approve cremation if carrying a body into the Church. these instructions for the care of
it was done in a way respecting The instructions for the final the cremated remains, we ask? Sister Paha is an Adrian
the holy dignity of the body of a disposition of these remains The reasons for the choice of Dominican Sister and diocesan
baptized Christian. In 1997, an tell us: “The cremated remains cremation vary but the care of the director of Pastoral Services.
appendix to the Funeral Rites was should be buried in a grave or body of the baptized Christian Msgr. McCarthy is diocesan Vicar
included, offering a clear directive entombed in a mausoleum or continues to be uppermost in our General and Moderator of the Curia.
Cost figures in decision to cremate, says Cemeteries director
By MICHAEL BROWN
Managing Editor
Cost comparison for interments Hanlon said that in double burial
plots, families can have two bodies
(figures below are estimated at the low end of price scale; actual prices will vary)
Diocesan Catholic Cemeteries and two cremains.
**These costs do not include cremation or embalming. Catholic Cemeteries do not provide mortuary
Executive Director Tom Hanlon Solano noted there were
services, only interment. Cremation and embalming costs may vary and are not included in the costs below.
said three factors influence a several options available for
bereaved family deciding what C R E M AT I O N cremains besides burial in full
to do with the remains of a body plots. There are urn gardens,
Service Cost
loved one: cost, precedence and and above ground niches in
circumstances. Cremains in a niche with a interment fee, marker $5,642 mausoleums (equipped to hold full
Hanlon noted that while many and vase included bodies as well as cremains) and
people believe cremation and Total $5,642.00
columbariums (with niches solely
interment of an urn in the ground designed for cremains).
or a niche costs less than body Those costs, with everything
burial, it very much depends on B O DY B U R I A L included, range upward from
burial choices the family makes: $5,642. That does not include the
Service Cost
ground or niche, fancy or less fancy cost of cremation.
urn, gravestone, etc. Cost of plot $3,300 Solano said the expenses
Also, if niches have already for burial of cremains versus
been purchased and the remains Concrete/Steel liner $940 traditional burial can be very much
of another family member are in the same.
Service/interment fee $1,310
repose there, cremation may make Hanlon said that “given their
more sense. Memorial stone $800 druthers, most families would
Finally, if there are circumstances prefer burial” of an intact body.
– such as a body that might Total $6,350.00 Solano, who has a license to
have been ravaged, mangled or run a cremator – a facility that
decimated in death - when there was up to 34 percent. setting up and breaking down the cremates human remains – cautions
are few remains of a body because Juventino Solano, a Catholic site for the interment, and other families against choosing cremation
of how the person died, cremation cemeteries representative, noted associated costs were another on the basis of price alone. He
again may be a better option. the cost of burying a body can vary $1,310. A 1memorial stone runs said families and loved ones
The popularity of interment widely depending on survivors’ another $800-$900. should investigate carefully and
of cremated remains, known as desicions. A concrete or steel liner Cemetery plots, if a family plot read reviews and reports about
cremains, has increased slowly but to protect the casket from the has not already been purchased, can companies conducting cremations
steadily at Catholic Cemeteries. elements and prevent the ground start at $3,300, bringing the overall before choosing who will provide
For the fiscal year ending June above it from sinking can cost costs to a range starting at $6,350. the service.
30, 2018, cremains interment $940. An internment fee – opening Those costs do not include Mourners deserve the peace of
accounted for 32 percent of the ground, recording the death, funeral home expenses, including mind that the remains they are
services. For the first six months of maintaining he site and equipment, embalming of the body. See HANLON on page 12
the current fiscal year, that figure12 CATHOLIC OUTLOOK MARCH 2019
said.
HANLON continued from page 11 Hanlon said he travels to about 12 parishes
being given are really those of their loved one, he a year to host brief presentations, followed by
said. “You get what you pay for,” he said. question-and-answer sessions to explain the
Hanlon noted that buried urns still need services Catholic Cemeteries provide.
casings, although he added that some products “We start by talking about the Catholic funeral
recently on the market can double as both liturgy and talk about the rite,” Hanlon said. “We
urns and casings, with brass plates identifying run through all the arrangements that Catholics
the cremains, and that are suitable for use in have to make.”
churches. Most information is conveyed during the
Sometimes, if a family is dealing with one question-and-answer period, he added. The
parent who has died and another one that is entire meeting usually takes about 90 minutes
ailing, family members will request a delay in and is very well received.
the interment of the decedent pending the death “The people who come tell us they feel really
of the one that is ailing. Hanlon said he tries to well served,” said Hanlon.
accommodate that request, rather than having to In 2017, the Cemeteries office converted crypt
charge two interment fees over a short period of space to be used as urn niches when it became
time. Hanlon noted. clear that some families had been holding on
What’s a reasonable amount of time? Catholic Cemeteries here in the Diocese will to cremains for years without a plan or the
“I can’t answer that. You would have to go to work with the family to defer interment of the resources for a proper burial.
your parish priest,” he said. cremains until the family can afford it, “but Hanlon said the cemeteries would consider
Sometimes, a family deals with financial arrangements have to be made because they (the repeating that program but had no time frame for
hardship and can’t inter the ashes right away, family) can’t keep the remains indefinitely,” he when it would happen.
Trip to Uganda sends Sahuarita pastor home packing new lessons
By MICHAEL BROWN his experiences and Catholic
M anaging Editor social teaching, in helping people
Thin and short, Rosa, 97, had become aware of the need to
migrated 10 times through the support the work of CRS. He
desert from her native South also talks about the importance
Sudan, to the Bidi Bidi refugee of Operation Rice Bowl, the
settlement in Uganda. Father CRS Lenten program that helps
Juan Carlos Aguirre, pastor of San raise awareness of the plight of
Martin de Porres in Sahuarita and Catholics and others around the
global ambassador for Catholic world, while seeking financial
Relief Services, visited Uganda support from US Catholics.
in January and was impressed by Acknowledging his
Rosa’s determination and her will responsibility first to his parish,
to survive. Father Aguirre said he was
“She sells brooms that she otherwise available to speak at
makes by hand for two dollars” to other parishes and groups in
supplement the food allocation the Diocese. “I am willing to go
she receives from the United anywhere for Rice Bowl. It is
Nations’ World Food Programme, really something I love to do.”
he said. Going on these missionary
Rosa is lucky. She and another Outlook photo courtesy of Father Aguirre trips “helps keep me grounded,”
family member are one of the Rosa, center, is 97 and has migrated to Uganda as a refugee 10 times from Father Aguirre said, adding that it
nearly 1,500 fortunate recipients South Sudan. Here she stands with the delegation from Catholic Relief Services, is easy to get caught up in parish
of a housing unit built by CRS including Sahuarita pastor Father Juan Carlos Aguirre, in the blue shirt standing in life and in the struggles currently
during the last two years. Each of the doorway of her new home. facing the Church in the US. He
the domiciles consists of a single Rosa enjoys. to restart it four years later. In said he appreciates the chance
unit, with two “rooms” separated “You understand (their 2012, Father Aguirre traveled to to see how many Catholics cope
by a divider, and a detached frustrations) and how long this is Burkina Faso. with different challenges in other
latrine. going to take,” he said. Following his third trip, Father global settings.
In a refugee settlement that The CRS housing program Aguirre said, his role is as an Father Aguirre said that while
hosts almost 300,000 people, targets the most vulnerable ambassador/educator, where he he enjoys being an advocate
most of whom live in stick shacks populations, including the elderly, speaks on behalf of CRS to groups for CRS and appreciates the
covered by donated tarps, the CRS women and orphans. around the country. Later this support from Bishop Edward J.
“homes” can’t come fast enough. Father Aguirre began as a year, he will travel to Boynton Weisenburger for that part of his
Father Aguirre recalled attending Global Fellow as a seminarian Beach, Florida, to speak to ministry, he does not have any
a meeting with angry residents in 1997, when he traveled to seminarians at St. Vincent de Paul future trips scheduled yet.
who have waited and will Zimbabwe. CRS temporarily Seminary. “I am here (and available) as
continue to wait for years to get halted the program in 2007, only He is invited to speak about long as they (CRS officials) want
a chance for the kind of shelter me to go,” he said.MARCH 2019 CATHOLIC OUTLOOK 13 Vatican summit: Great expectations to practical outcomes By CAROL GLATZ the voice and recommendations Catholic News Service of laypeople and victims - many VATICAN CITY — All eyes and who had gone unheard for years - ears will be on the Vatican during listened to. an unprecedented gathering Feb. 4. Pope Francis will be present 21-24 to discuss the protection of throughout the meeting, which will minors in the Catholic Church. include plenary sessions, working When Pope Francis announced groups, prayer, a penitential liturgy the international meeting in and a closing Mass. September, it sparked an optimistic In letters to the bishops of Chile note that the global problem of and the US, Pope Francis has made abuse finally would be tackled with clear what he thinks the Church a concerted, coordinated, global needs to do to respond to the abuse effort. crisis. The breadth of the potential Administrative solutions impact seemed to be reflected involving new policies and norms in the list of those convoked to are not enough, he has said. the meeting: the presidents of all He told Chile’s bishops that abuse the world’s bishops’ conferences, and its cover-up “are indicators the heads of the Eastern Catholic that something is bad in the Church churches, representatives of the body.” leadership groups of men’s and Therefore, they must not only women’s religious orders and the “address the concrete cases,” but heads of major Vatican offices. also “discover the dynamics that The pope tried to dial down what made it possible for such attitudes he saw as “inflated expectations” Photo by CNS Paul Haring and evils to occur.” for the meeting, telling reporters in Father Hans Zollner, one of the meeting organizers Those attitudes are driven by January that “the problem of abuse pope’s Council of Cardinals who procedures and methods are the temptation “to save ourselves, will continue. It’s a human problem” are not presidents of their bishops’ effective” and viable in the Catholic to save our reputation,” he told the that exists everywhere. conference and four members of the Church, he said. Chilean bishops. Many survivors and experts, organizing committee. Church leaders must know what In his letter to the US bishops, too, have cautioned that it was Everyone invited will be the norms are, he said, but the he warned against the tendency to unrealistic to assume such a brief expected to learn what his or her meeting also will stress that the play the victim, to scold, discredit, meeting could deliver a panacea for responsibilities are as a leader or a procedures themselves “will not disparage others and point fingers. abuse and its cover-up. bishop and to know the church laws magically solve a problem.” 5. Expect the meeting to be So, what should people expect and procedures that already exist to For example, he said, it was “a one critical step along a very long from the four-day meeting? The protect the young. source of delusion” for US Catholics journey that began decades ago and following five points hit the 2. Organizers hope that by when the 2002 Dallas Charter did must continue. highlights: listening to victims and leaders not fix everything. Further measures will be taken 1. It will be first and foremost who have learned things the hard In fact, the meeting will not be after the meeting, Father Zollner about raising awareness, including way, participants will be inspired to about producing any documents, but has said. For instance, a task force that the scandal of abuse is not a adopt a culture of accountability and pushing people to take the needed made up of child protection experts “Western” problem, but happens in transparency. steps toward greater transparency “will probably be instituted in the every country. Hearing what abuse and and accountability, Father Lombardi various continents” to help bishops To make that point clear, the negligence have done to people has said. create, strengthen and implement organizing committee asked every the power to transform the listener, Those steps already are spelled guidelines. participating bishop to sit down “to truly open the mind and heart,” out, he said, in Pope Francis’ 2016 The different “teams” of the with a survivor of abuse before Jesuit Father Hans Zollner told document, “As a Loving Mother,” task force should be able to help coming to Rome and hear that “Me, reporters Feb. 12. on the accountability of bishops and “for years to come to measure the too,” from a person of his own Just to be sure those voices are religious superiors. success of this exercise of realizing country, culture and language. heard, the meeting will also feature “It must be put into practice one’s own responsibility, even on Jesuit Father Federico Lombardi, testimonies from survivors from effectively,” he said, adding that he the global level, in the face of public who is moderating the meeting, said countries where the reality of was “convinced and firmly hope expectations,” he told the Vatican there would be between 160 and abuse is still largely ignored, said that this meeting will give a push in newspaper in January. 180 participants. He told reporters the priest, an abuse expert who is that direction.” Even though the church is well Feb. 12 to expect the presidents of part of the meeting’s organizing 3. There will be a kind of “parallel aware of larger, related problems about 115 bishops’ conferences, a committee. assembly” as large numbers of of abuses of power, conscience dozen heads of Eastern churches, He said the word “accountability” survivors and advocacy groups and abuse and violence against prefects of Vatican congregations doesn’t even exist in many converge on Rome to call for greater seminarians, religious women and directly involved with Vatican languages, which often means accountability, action and reform. other adults, the meeting will focus norms regarding abuse and that culture might lack a clear or A variety of events are planned, exclusively on protecting minors negligence, eight delegates from the coherent understanding of this key including an evening “Vigil for from abuse, Fathers Zollner and men’s Union of Superiors General, concept. Justice” near the Vatican and a Lombardi said. 10 delegates from the women’s For that reason, the summit “March for Zero Tolerance” to St. International Union of Superiors will devote a day to discussing Peter’s Square, but a major focus Contributing to this story was General, three members of the accountability and “what structures, will be media outreach and getting Cindy Wooden in Rome.
14 CATHOLIC OUTLOOK MARCH 2019
‘Ignorance of Scripture is ignorance of Christ’
Last in a 10-part series. “bother” because the Bible is a to be seen and tasted and felt. It the Father loves me, so I also love
By CACKIE UPCHURCH place of encounter. It provides the creates the foundation for a fully you. Remain in my love. … Love
Director, Little Rock Scripture Study opportunity to learn about Jesus human life, even in times of peril. one another as I love you” (Jn 15:9,
Centuries ago, in caves believed and to know him in an intimate Paul writes words of assurance to 12). Our experiences of God’s love
to be located beneath what is now and relational way. Likewise, we Jesus’ followers in Rome who are move us to love, taking Jesus and his
the Church of St. Catherine in recognize that Jesus knows us, each suffering persecution, telling them actions as our guide. Of course, that
Bethlehem, a man by the name of of us, and his way of knowing is to that absolutely nothing can separate may be easier said than done.
Eusebius Sophronius Hieronymus love. The classic children’s hymn It is difficult, for example, to love
began an arduous task. He studied proclaims this truth: “Jesus loves an enemy, to be single-hearted, and
Hebrew so that he could translate me, this I know, for the Bible tells to reserve judgment about others.
the Old Testament into Latin, the me so.” While these challenges are real, they
language of the people in the Roman Think for a moment of the many are nonetheless part of the mandate
Empire. He produced numerous ways Jesus reveals God’s love. He given us by Jesus in his preaching
biblical commentaries. gathers children to his side, those (Mt 5-7, Sermon on the Mount;
Better known to us as St. Jerome, who were counted among the Lk 6, Sermon on the Plain). These
this scholar was far from perfect. It least in his day. He touches the actions and others are signs of the
is said that he was “intemperate in unclean and heals the sick, restoring love we receive, and a reminder that
controversy,” “singularly agitated, them to their communities. He God’s love is not a possession to be
impatient, and proud,” and that forgives sinners, even some who guarded but a gift to be shared.
his harsh opinions made him so do not think themselves worthy of So, why bother with the Bible?
unpopular in the Roman church that forgiveness and do not ask for it Because it reveals God’s love for
his time in Bethlehem was in fact (such as the Samaritan woman at us, and because God’s love is
self-imposed exile. the well). transformative.
St. Jerome’s years of biblical Jesus calls out hypocrisy, Some people describe the Bible
study could have led him to an providing an opportunity for as a school or a library, a place
additional and certain arrogance repentance and conversion. He of learning and understanding.
but instead, in the midst of it all, speaks the truth even when it is However, the Bible could also be
he offered this gem: “Ignorance of difficult to hear. He assures those described as a sanctuary, a place
Scripture is ignorance of Christ.” who are anxious and proves himself of God’s presence set aside for
For all of his intellectual pursuits, worthy of trust. He nourishes the them from the love of God in true encounter with the Divine.
everything came down to the crowds with fish and bread and solid Christ Jesus: “In all these things we When we open our Bibles, I hope
necessity of encountering Christ teaching. He entrusts his mission to conquer overwhelmingly through we come with both expectations –
in the Scriptures, the Word of God his followers. He sacrifices his own him who loved us” (see Rom 8:37- eager to learn and to discover new
that remains alive and relevant in life for our sake. He shares eternal 39). understandings, and equally eager
every age. life with mere mortals like us. In John’s Gospel, Jesus tells to respond to God’s initiative and to
Over the course of this 10-part This love of God revealed in Jesus his followers, then and now, that grow in love.
series, we have asked “Why bother is not reserved for the afterlife, the love he has for us is personal,
with the Bible?” Ultimately, we but is real and tangible, something intimate and life-changing: “AsYou can also read
