Cookies for a Cause - Immaculate Heart of Mary

Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish
7770 Beechmont Avenue
Cincinnati, OH 45255
513-388-4466
E-mail: parish@ihom.org
Website: www.ihom.org
NON-PROFIT
ORGANIZATION
U.S. POSTAGE
PAID
Cincinnati, Ohio
Permit No. 2975
I M M A C U L AT E H E A RT
OF
M A RY P A R I S H N E W S PA P E R
Published since 1978 by Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish (1944–2011)
September 2012
Cookies for a Cause
BY AMY ZIMMERMAN
Since birth, Jack has undergone five brain surgeries (two
he Steiger family
of which ultimately removed
kitchen smells good. It
most of the right side of his
is filled with a warm
brain). One of the surgeries
and sweet aroma. Long-time
resulted in a stroke. He has
IHM parishioners, Heather
had numerous procedures and
Steiger and her mother,
countless medicinal cocktails
Cherie Frankenberg, are bakto help control his seizures.
ing and decorating butter
He’s experienced countless
cookie—princess tiaras,
hospital stays and numerous
magic wands, baby shoes,
emergency room trips.
crosses, basketballs and a
“It is unimaginable how
variety of other shapes.
much Jack has endured in his
However, this is not an
young life. However, through
uncommon scene. They have
it all, he has persevered. He
been baking together since
brings such joy to our lives,”
Heather was a young girl.
commented Heather.
But recently their homemade
It’s easy to see the joy this
cookies are more than just for
light-haired, blue-eyed little
enjoyment; they are for an
boy brings to his family. “He is
important cause.
our little trooper,” said Todd
Heather and Cherie are
with a smile.
now baking cookies made
While Jack’s seizures are
from their family recipe
now under control, with only
to help raise money for a
an infrequent “breakthrough
precious three year-old boy,
seizure” occurring, the neuroTodd and Heather Steiger with Madilyn (standing),
Jack, along with generating
logical
trauma to the brain has
Charlotte and Jack
awareness of his unique
left him handicapped and in
school. Jack is the middle
need of daily care from a
child and only son of Todd and Heather Steiger. He was born
nurse. He is visually impaired, non-verbal, requires a wheel
in November 2008 full term and made Maddie, their daughter,
chair and a feeding tube in addition to various medications.
a proud big sister. While he was the picture of health, within
All in the Family
hours of being welcomed into the world, his world and that of
Jack’
s
care
is
definitely
a family affair. Grandmothers
his parents and entire family became difficult and scary.
Cherie
and
LaVerne,
who
are both retired, help out several
Jack was experiencing hundreds of seizures per day, and
days
a
week
not
only
with
Jack, but with his two sisters.
doctors at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital were working
Baby sister Charlotte joined the family in 2011. Their supaggressively to figure out why and to find a course of effecport enables Heather to keep her part-time teaching position
tive treatment. The diagnosis was cortical dysplasia which is
in the Forest Hills School District and Todd to work full-time
a congenital abnormality where the neurons in an area of the
to provide for his family.
brain failed to migrate in the proper formation in utero. The
(Continued on page 2)
abnormality triggers seizures. There is no known cause.
T
Inside:
Barnes Brings Energy
To IHM Youth
3
School Principal
Honored
4
Celebrating CRHP—
30 Years of Faith
8
The Body of Christ
In Mission
10
From
the
Pastor
By Father Tom Kreidler
D
ear Parishioners,
With about two months left
until the presidential elections,
perhaps you’re as fed up as I am with
the negativity surrounding political
issues and debates. If you are, you’re
in good company. A recent poll by
the Knights of Columbus found
that eight out of 10 Americans are
also frustrated with the tone of the
campaign this year.
The survey also revealed that
• Nearly three-quarters of
Americans say that campaigns
have gotten more negative over
the years (74 percent).
• Two-thirds of Americans
(66 percent) believe that candidates
spend more time attacking their
opponents than talking about
the issues.
• By a nearly 20-point margin,
Americans believe that campaigns
are mostly uncivil and disrespectful
(56 to 37 percent).
• And nearly two-thirds of Americans
say that negative campaigning
harms our political process a
great deal or a significant amount
(64 percent).
To counter this trend, the Knights
of Columbus has asked citizens to
sign onto a Civility in America Pledge,
which reads:
“We, the undersigned citizens of
the United States of America,
respectfully request that candidates,
(Continued on page 2)
HeartBeat
2
Cookies for a Cause
(Continued from page 1)
Jack’s grandfathers, Doug and Bill, along with
aunts, uncles, cousins and countless other friends and
neighbors are always on hand to help when needed.
“We are so blessed to have so many friends and
family members who love Jack and want the best for
him,” said Heather. Grandma Cherie agrees as she
holds Jack on her lap. “He is a very dear boy and we
would do anything to help our family.”
The Steigers’ family, their faith and the IHM parish
community have been instrumental in helping them
manage the joys and challenges of caring for a handicapped child. “We are very fortunate,” commented
Heather. “Sister Carole (Temming) especially was our
rock during Jack’s first year. She helped to remind us
that God was ever present. When she would call or
walk into Jack’s hospital room, I would break down
into tears because I felt closer to God when she
was with us.”
Enter Conductive Education
While Jack has challenges, his parents have expectations and goals for him, just like his sisters Maddie
and Charlotte. “We want Jack to grow and develop
into the person God intended him to be. We are not
content with him just existing. We want him to have
as much quality of life as possible,” said Heather.
They wanted Jack to receive therapy and other
interventions to assist with his development and teach
him life skills. While Children’s Hospital provided
typical therapies, they were interested in more holistic
and repetitive forms of therapy and education which
specifically benefit individuals with brain injuries and
neurological issues. Around this time, Jack’s nurse
mentioned to the Steigers another client she cared for
had previously attended a school which may help
Jack. They sprang into action and conductive education became part of their lives.
The Conductive Learning Center of Greater
Cincinnati practices a philosophy that views the brain
as flexible and capable of remapping through integrated
and repetitive therapy—speech, physical and occupa-
A Day at Our Lady
of the Mountains
BY JUDY O’BRIEN
H
ow long does it take to bag socks and underwear by size and child for 170 families? About
three hours is what it took the 15 volunteers
from IHM and from Our Lady of the Mountains (OLM)
on a recent Saturday. Brenda, Sr. Mary Jane Kreidler’s
assistant, had all the socks and underwear organized
to make our job easier. Even with that you could hear
us mumble over and over again five pairs of socks,
three underpants, three tops or was that five underpants
and three socks, no the first was right. One by one
tional. It also views the child as a whole and partners
with parents to educate them on what strategies to
continue at home. Therapy is provided by conductors,
who are trained in this methodology which originated
in Hungary.
“Jack is making good progress. He is happy to go to
school which he attends five days a week, five and a
half hours a day. The conductors provide him one-onone support and he also gets to interact with other
children,” said Heather.
Donna Speigel, the owner of the Snooty Fox retail
stores, and her husband founded the Center in 2007
to help their handicapped grandson, Dayton, and
other children. The Center is 100% funded through
private donations and tuition.
The cost of attending the Center is expensive and is
not covered by insurance. “While we have seen the
positive impact conductive education has made for
Jack and other children, because it does not follow the
practices of traditional therapies, health insurance
companies question its true medical effectiveness and
do not cover it. For families, it becomes an out of
pocket expense,” commented Todd.
Jack’s Cookie FUNd
Todd and Heather know firsthand the financial
hardships that come with the care of a handicapped
child. They also understand the impact it has not only
the family bags got filled.
For most IHM parents the main clothing concern is
having their children’s clothing clean. They have
enough of the things they need. For many parents in
Powell County, Ky., the concern is how will they be
able to afford the clothing their children need—not
want but need. OLM helps these parents by providing
new socks and underwear for back to school. They
also give the children other gently used clothing
when it is available.
Working together that Saturday not only gave us
the opportunity to do a service job but also to visit
with the members of OLM and form new friendships.
Building relationships between the two parishes is
the heart of the twinning experience and is what the
members of OLM tell us means the most to them.
Our Lady of the Mountains is small in number of
members but joined together we are rich in spirit.
September 2012
on the child but the entire family. Knowing how
blessed they were, they wanted to find a way to raise
awareness and support of the Conductive Learning
Center, along with raising money to offset the cost of
Jack’s tuition.
“We brainstormed about all kinds of fundraisers. I
even suggested holding a carnival in our backyard.
But, ultimately, we decided to bake the butter cookies
so many of our friends and family love and that we
love making,” said Heather. From there, Jack’s Cookie
FUNd was created.
Heather and Cherie did some research, invested in
some baking accessories and the Steiger kitchen now
serves as the bakery. Todd’s mother, LaVerne, arrives
early to care for Charlotte, Jack and Maddie when she
gets home from IHM, so they can focus on baking.
The family purchases all the materials needed to make
and decorate the cookies. One hundred percent of the
donations go to Jack’s Cookie FUNd which helps to
fund his tuition.
“We are a two-person operation. I am the ‘Cookie
CEO’ and Mom is my assistant. We are able to bake
and decorate six dozen cookies a week. Our website
has a calendar where you can select the week you
need cookies, along with suggested donations and
delivery information. We do not ship our cookies
because they are delicate and we want them fresh,”
said Heather. “We put a lot of love and work into
these cookies because we know they are for a great
cause. It is for Jack and other special children.”
Visit the website, www.jackscookiefund.com, to
request cookies, to learn more about Jack and Conductive
Education. Photographs courtesy of Hezlep Photography.
From the Pastor
(Continued from page 1)
the media and other advocates and commentators involved in the public policy arena employ
a more civil tone in public discourse on political and social issues, focusing on policies rather
than on individual personalities.
For our part, we pledge to make these principles our own.”
The pledge has appeared in print in various
newspapers, including USA Today, and can be
found online at KofC.org or the K of C
Facebook page (Civility in America).
No matter how strongly we all feel about
issues central to this election, it is possible to
disagree respectfully with those holding a contrary position. Mother Teresa demonstrated this
well during her lifetime. On one occasion
when she was being honored for her work in
India, she publicly challenged the pro-abortion
position of the foundation honoring her. At
another time, although she had lobbied against
the death penalty, when the person she was
supporting was executed, instead of responding
with bitterness, she responded with charity.
Today, with the proliferation of social media
to complement political television advertising,
it’s easy to quickly circulate negative and damaging half-truths. During this campaign it is
good to remember the Golden Rule—“Treat
others as you would like to be treated.” Or, in
more media-savvy terms, “Tweet others as you
would like to be tweeted.”
God bless,
September 2012
HeartBeat
Barnes Brings Energy to IHM Youth
BY BETH DOUGLAS
3
HB: What interested you to become a member of IHM?
BB: The devotion in this parish to the application of
our faith. I guess the parish mission statement sums
it up that “we are parish centered in the Eucharist.”
HB: How would a friend describe you?
B
radley Barnes is the new assistant youth minister at IHM, and what a blessing for the parish!
Bradley, a proud Turpin High School graduate
(class of 2002), is married to Meghan who is a cosmetologist. In addition to being the youth minister,
Bradley is a mascot for the Cincinnati Reds baseball
team. The fans get more than they could ask for with
the energy he brings to whatever he is doing.
Bradley is also a convert to Catholicism, having
been raised in the Assembly of God church. He has a
passion for his “calling” as a youth minister that is
what every youth group should look for in a leader. I
sat down with Bradley for an interview so all parishioners could get to know him.
BB: It’s hard to presume how people see you, but I
would hope as someone who is genuine in their faith
and action for the Church. However I am still a
work in progress for Christ.
HB: What can youth and parents look forward to
with the Youth Ministry group?
BB: Large group nights, small engagement opportunities, with a few specifics coming up such as
CREDO, which is a three-day event for grades eight
through 12.
We look forward to having Bradley on staff at IHM.
HB: How did you come to youth ministry at IHM?
BB: I grew up with a very strong faith in the AG
church, and was extremely active in my youth
group. When I became a member of IHM I began to
volunteer at the church, along with taking part in a
Christ Renews His Parish weekend. These things led
to deepening my commitment to the parish and my
faith. Patrick Reis, the youth group leader, asked
me to get more involved with the youth, and the
rest is history.
BB: Relationship is the key word. My goal in life is
to pursue discipleship: the small things which are
huge in developing a deep faith — prayer, worship,
and engaging with the Church community.
HB: Obviously you sensed God’s calling to ministry.
What evidence affirms this?
HB: Do you have any hobbies or outside interests?
BB: I have been given an inordinate amount of energy
so that I can meet all the demands of the responsibilities before me — youth minister, husband, and what
else God calls me to.
BB: Work is my hobby (ha ha). My work is something I am passionate about and vice versa.
HB: Does Youth Ministry have a vision for the parish’s
young people?
HB: What is your relationship to Christ? How does
that affect your daily life?
BB: Discipleship, and to affirm and support that
mission for Christ.
Moms, Hungry for the Word?
Come Share Our Journey
BY ALISON GROETSCH AND ERICA SCHUETTER
S
ummer is gone and a new school year is upon us! It can be an exciting time and one full of stress.
Many of us complain about not having enough time to do this or that. How about investing a few hours
a week for your spirit? How about doing a Bible Study and growing in your relationship with Christ?
Are you hungry for the Word of God? Hungry for companionship with other women leading busy lives
and trying to grow in faith?
We invite you to join us! We are a group of women who come together to share life and study Scripture.
If you’re a mom, and even if you are not, you’re enthusiastically invited to join us. Members of our group
are at various levels in our faith so no need to feel uneasy. Come see what we are about: love, support, and
hunger for the Word. Can you find the time to join us?
"Years ago before attending this study I felt like I was constantly running. I always wanted to be more
than a Sunday Mass attendee. I was fearful and wondered where I would find the time,” remarks Alison
Groetsch. “Thankfully, I decided to give it a try. Years later I am still learning, enjoying the company...
and still running! The difference is that I find calmness a few hours a week when I am surrounded by
women of faith."
The Moms’ Bible Study group meets on Thursday mornings from 9:45-11:30 in St. Matthew’s Room
upstairs in the Parish Welcome Center. This year the group will use a DVD-based study featuring Jeff
Cavins called James: Pearls for Wise Living. Our first meeting was held on Sept. 6, but members are
welcome to join us at any time.
Anna Walton added, “Bible Study has been a good journey. We have walked with each other through
stories of faith. We have laughed together and cried together. Mostly, we have grown in love of Christ by
studying the Word and applying it to our lives.”
Childcare is available during our study time. While many members have children in local Catholic
or public schools, some members homeschool their children—the children work quietly in our meeting
room. If you already attend IHM School Mass with your children on Thursday mornings, please consider
joining us afterwards.
The Holy Spirit is truly alive in this unique group of women. We all seem to be striving to be the wife,
mother, and friend that God is calling us to be. We would be honored if you would join us on this journey.
For more information, please call Erica Schuetter at 752-1582 or Anna Walton at 528-2229.
Attention Young Women:
Are You Going to the
Martha Dinner?
BY BILL MULLANEY
S
o, you ask, “Who’s Martha? And why is she
inviting me to dinner?” Well, she’s inviting
you because you’re important and she wants
you to be there. And she isn’t inviting just you, but
every young woman from the seventh grade
through high school, college and beyond so you
know it’s a big deal.
A Martha Dinner is one of the ways our parish
Vocations Committee invites young women to reflect
on their lives and what they want to do with their
lives. It’s a time for gathering information about religious vocations for women. Chances are very good
that you’ve never given much thought to the religious life. You see Sr. Carole around the parish all the
time and you know she is a really neat person and
you admire her a lot, and maybe you would like to
hear more from her about why she chose to be a sister. Maybe you wonder what women in religious
orders do all day and if they can choose the kind of
work they do. Maybe you have a lot of questions that
you don’t even know you have. Well, these kinds of
questions are why we offer the Martha Dinner.
Here you’ll have an opportunity to hear women
religious of several orders talk about their communities and what life is like as a sister. They will be on
hand to answer any questions about what really is
involved in entering the religious life. They will talk
about their ministries and how they chose their particular order. They’re eager to tell you about the joys
they experience each day, and they can talk about
the challenges they face.
Our special guest and principal speaker will be
Bishop Joe Binzer, who will share some of his experiences from his many years serving God through his
own religious vocation as a priest and bishop.
And of course there’s the dinner. Steve and Julie
Daly from our parish always provide us awesome
menus so you can be sure the food will be delicious.
The date is Oct. 23 in Heritage Hall. The evening
begins at 6 p.m. with a social, when you can spend
some time with many of your friends and meet some
new ones. We hope you will mark this on your calendar and join us for an enjoyable evening. Please
register for the dinner by calling the Parish Office or
Deacon Bill Mullaney at 753-7756 or e-mail at
wmullaney @roadrunner.com.
HeartBeat
4
September 2012
School Principal Honored at Retirement
Don’t Miss the Boat!
BY DEBBI HILL
BY KATE TUCCI
N
H
ancy Goebel, Principal of Immaculate Heart of Mary School, announced her plan to retire July 1 after
nine years of dedicated service to our school children and parents. She was a very important part of
our school family and was honored as such at a special ceremony in the school gymnasium at the end
of the school year.
Mrs. Goebel was surprised by 677 students, 70+ staff members, and her family for the celebration. She
was then serenaded by staff, dressed as the Von Trapp children, in their special rendition of “So Long,
Farewell” followed by students performing the “IHM Achy Breaky” dance to music teachers singing that
song with special words for Mrs. Goebel.
Every grade level presented Mrs. Goebel with a gift reminding staff and students of her special talents.
Kindergarten gave a crystal heart as our hearts are broken that she is leaving, Grade 1 a golden sparkle clipboard reminding us of her “Good Morning” greeting every day, Grade 2 a jar of happy face cookies since she
is always smiling, Grade 3 an apron signed by every IHM student and staff member (she wears one in the
cafeteria during lunchtime), Grade 4 presented her with Memorial Sister Mary Blue Ribbon note cards since
she likes to dress up in this character during Catholic Schools Week. Grade 5 was practical with a pillow
since we are sure she actually lives at IHM, Grade 7 had an Anti-Bully shirt representing her work since
2003 on this program, and Grade 8 presented a basket filled with 677 student handprints plus staff handprints containing notes of memories and well wishes for the future.
ave you ever wanted to go on one of those
wonderful trips to the Holy Land and immerse
yourself in the very land that Jesus himself
walked? It would be a trip of a lifetime, but the cost
prohibits many people from taking that trip. The base
cost of such a 10 day trip is about five thousand dollars
per person. But now you can go! The Evangelization &
Catechesis Commission along with the staff of the
Formation Office is excited to offer you a real treat …
a customized “Holy Land Cruise” on the Ohio River.
Actual Holy Land tour guides are experts in every
detail of the land and make the trip memorable for the
lucky tourists. We are bringing the very best of the
guides right here to give a special talk on the Holy
Land on-board a BB Riverboat. Steve Ray is world
renowned for his work in this field, as well as his
books, Scripture Studies, television appearances and
speaking engagements. His DVD series The Footprints
of God are hugely popular and have transported many
people to the Holy Land simply by watching his series.
When he appeared at IHM to kick off our last Lenten
Series it was one of the most well attended events at
our parish and Steve is very intrigued by the concept
and excited to create a presentation specifically for this
“Holy Land Cruise.”
Steve will lead us on our “IHM Holy Land Cruise”
boarding from Newport Landing on a BB Riverboat on
Saturday, Oct. 6. Boarding begins at 6 p.m. and the
boat sails promptly at 7 p.m., and dock at
9:30 p.m. While the passengers cruise they will be
served a meal customized for our group. Dinner will
include a salad and the three entrees will include
sirloin with a horseradish sauce, turkey breast with
creole sauce, and pasta primavera with a light sauce.
Sides include vegetable medley, new potatoes, dinner
rolls and butter as well as white and chocolate cake.
Your meal includes coffee, tea and iced tea, unlimited
soft drinks and a ticket for either a beer or a glass of
wine. While you enjoy your meal, Steve will give his
presentation created just for us. And here is the best
part … all of this, including dinner, is only $50 per
person. To purchase tickets please call the Formation
Office at 388-4093 by Monday, Sept. 24.
Religious Freedom Topic of Talk, Prayer Service
BY JANE ELFERS
F
ather Tom Kreidler and Immaculate Heart of
Mary Church observed the Fortnight for
Freedom on June 27 by welcoming an audience
of about 500 to an ecumenical prayer service and
presentation on religious liberty. Our purpose was
to bring together Catholics and other religious
leaders from our community to address, in a nonpartisan way, troubling issues raised by the recent
Health and Human Services (HHS) mandate.
Offering readings from Holy Scripture, prayers
of supplication to God, lovely hymns, heartfelt
petitions, and insightful talks by knowledgeable
speakers. Our parish sought to bring clarity to this
confusing debate.
The HHS directive, stemming from the 2010
Affordable Care Act, forces all religious institutions to
provide insurance that covers contraception, abortifacient drugs and sterilization, all gravely contrary to
Catholic doctrine. The mandate is, therefore, a significant threat to our civil liberties, especially freedom
of religion. Beginning in 2013, terms of the Act specified by the Director of Health and Human Services,
will impose crippling taxes upon religiously affiliated
organizations if they fail to comply.
The featured speakers were Debe Terhar, Ohio School
Board President; Judge Jerry Metz, Court of Common
Pleas; and Cincinnati Auxiliary Bishop Joseph Binzer.
Ms. Terhar addressed very effectively our history of
religious freedom, the erosion in the 1920's of morality as an underpinning of education; the decoupling of
law from Original Intent towards a case law approach;
and the devolution of legal theory based on God's
supremacy, toward a secular model. Debe explained
that few in government today have learned the constitution or even understand that the phrase and concept of separation of Church and State are widely misunderstood. She stated that the founding documents
of our country are once again to be taught in their
original context, with year-end exams containing at
least 20% material based on this foundation. She stated
the need for an educated, thus discerning, electorate
such that schools must teach children not what to
think, but how to think. She emphasized that the
founding fathers envisioned and crafted a government
"anchored in religion, virtue and morality." And she
added that the issue is “not about contraception, it is
solely about religious freedom."
Judge Metz explained clearly, from a historical viewpoint, the delicate balance, instituted by America's
founding fathers, between imposing a state religion
and denying the rights of all citizens to freely practice
religion. He reviewed the history of our legal application of this balance in determining religious rights.
Bishop Binzer also spoke about religious freedom,
describing this mandate as an American, not just a
Catholic, issue, and clarifying that—despite media
comments to the contrary—it is an issue not of contraception but of the free practice of religion. Because
Christians have in common the mission to provide for
the poor, to teach, and to heal, a threat by government
to our charitable, educational and healing institutions'
very existence is a threat to all other freedoms.
To learn more and take action go to USCCB.org and
ihom.org for further information and sample advocacy
letters. Ohio voter registration forms are available at:
http://www.sos.state.oh.us/SOS/elections/Voters/register.aspx. All are encouraged to vote and ask others
to do the same.
September 2012
HeartBeat
5
Knights Install Rachel Garden–Memorial to the Unborn
BY BOB HILMER, SHIRLEY
WALKER, AND JANE ELFERS
A voice was heard in Ramah,
weeping and loud lamentation,
Rachel weeping for her children;
she refused to be comforted,
because they are no more
(Jer. 31:15).
T
he Knights of Columbus–
Cardinal Bernardin
Council #12359, installed
a remarkable and beautiful
bronze statue of Rachel in the
garden next to Hageman Hall
on June 27. The Knights initiated this project to honor prolife efforts in our parish and to
extend a welcoming and compassionate alcove in the garden for anyone wishing
to meditate and pray over the loss of an infant.
Beginning in 2007, the Knights established a committee to brainstorm ideas
about how to honor the loss of unborn children. They created a fund for this
dedicated garden from donations within the council, a bowling fund-raiser, raffles, and anonymous gifts. They prepared the design of the memorial and pur-
chased a statue of Rachel.
Until a placement was determined, they situated Rachel in
various spots, including the
teachers' lounge, Hageman
Hall, and the new Parish
Welcome Center. She now
resides next to the church.
The Knights are thankful to
Fr. Tom Kreidler, Dave Auxier,
Sean Mullarkey, and all who
assisted in making Rachel and
the Unborn Memorial Garden
dream come about.
Once completed, the Rachel
Garden will be complemented
with two benches, an information reader board, and red
roses — a pro-life symbol,
surrounding the paved area. The Rachel Garden will be in great company near
Our Lord's Sacred Heart and Our Blessed Mother's statues.
The Knights are so very grateful to Auxiliary Bishop Joseph Binzer for coming
to bless and dedicate the Rachel statue and the memorial garden. On behalf of
the Cardinal Bernardin Council of the Knights of Columbus #12359, we encourage
you to stop by and visit “Rachel.”
More About Rachel
BY BOB HILMER, SHIRLEY WALKER, AND JANE ELFERS
R
achel represents all women who have suffered
from infertility or loss of a child through miscarriage, abortion, still-birth and early death.
In Genesis, we learn that Rachel was the second
wife of Jacob, the grandson of Abraham, and son of
Isaac. Jacob's children are the fulfillment of God's
promise to make his honored prophet, Abraham's,
descendants as numerous as the sands. Sadly, Rachel
had an extremely difficult time conceiving children,
and it troubled her grievously. She would eventually
bear two sons: Joseph, and later, Benjamin. But
Rachel would go into a difficult labor with Benjamin
and would die in childbirth in Ramah just five miles
from Bethlehem.
Similarly, Rachel is an archetype of mothers,
grieving the loss of their children. Matthew thus
references Rachel, as the Holy Family flees into
Egypt. Rachel is, in this passage, every heartbroken
mother weeping for her lost child, killed by Herod's
Slaughter of the Innocent:
“When Herod realized that he had been deceived
by the magi, he became furious. He ordered the massacre of all the boys in Bethlehem and its vicinity two
years old and under, in accordance with the time he
had ascertained from the magi. Then was fulfilled
what had been said through Jeremiah the Prophet:
‘A voice was heard in Ramah, sobbing and loud
lamentation; Rachel weeping for her children, and she
would not be consoled, since they were no more.’ ”
Matt: 2:16-18
The mourning will end, though, and Jeremiah
prophesies healing and hope:
“Thus says the Lord: Cease your cries of mourning, wipe the tears from your eyes. The sorrow you
have shown shall have its reward, says the Lord.
There is hope for your future!” Jer: 31:15-16
There are programs in our area for those mothers,
fathers and family members who seek healing and
hope, especially after abortion loss. The first is the
Rachel Project which, according to the archdiocesan
loss of a child through abortion.” The site refers to
abortions as trauma and distress, stemming from the
loss of a young life. “The death caused by abortion
leads to anguish and intense yearning for someone
who cannot be retrieved...” They continue, “It is in
these painful moments of loss that we search for
meaning — some greater power beyond ourselves and
the reality of something more perfect than our infinitely frail humanity. At funerals and memorials we
seek to place our loved ones within the sovereign
embrace of the Creator.”
It is worth mentioning that men, too, are wounded
by child loss. Our archdiocese offers “Sanctuary,” a
ministry for those men who have lost a child to
abortion, miscarriage or stillbirth so that they may
“explore their issues and…begin healing…” Call
513-784-0531, a confidential line, for more information.
s Hosea says, “There she will sing with joy as
in days long ago in her youth, after I had freed
her from captivity. Then you will lie down in
peace and safety, unafraid; And I will bind you to me
forever with chains of righteousness and justice, love
and mercy. I will betroth you to me in faithfulness
and love, and you will really know me then as you
never have before.” Hosea 2:21-22
Finally, we all have the Knights of Columbus to
thank for their great dedication as an organization
to the cause of protecting the unborn—from their
helping with the installation of the 4,200 crosses in
our Cemetery of the Innocents, to their bringing
this dignified, healing and lovely memorial to the
unborn to Immaculate Heart of Mary Church. The
Knights’ web site thus reaffirms the First Principle
of Catholic Social Teaching, The Life and Dignity
of the Human Person, stating that “Every voice
matters in the public forum. Every voice counts.
Every act of responsible citizenship is an exercise
of significant individual power.”
May this touching statue bring comfort to all of us
who are mourning the loss of an unborn child,
through miscarriage, stillbirth or abortion. May we
take consolation in the words of Jeremiah: “Cease
your cries of mourning, wipe the tears from your
eyes. The sorrow you have shown shall have its
reward, says the Lord. There is hope for your future!”
A
web site, is a “post-abortion healing ministry in the
Catholic Church.” This is a diocesan-based network
of specially trained priests, religious, counselors, and
laypersons who provide a team response of care for
those suffering in the aftermath of abortion. In addition to referring for sacramental reconciliation, the
ministry provides an integrated network of services,
including pastoral counseling, spiritual direction, and
referrals to mental health professionals. Support
groups and retreats may be offered in addition to
individualized care.
There will be a Project Rachel Retreat sponsored by
the Archdiocese in Cincinnati, Sept. 28-30. Please call
513-784-0531 or email mboyd@catholiccincinnati.org
for more information. The National Project Rachel
Helpline is 1-800-593-2273.
The second program is the highly recommended
Rachel's Vineyard, a ministry of Priests for Life. Their
web site states that this is a healing ministry providing counseling retreats nationwide, “a spiritual and
emotional healing process for those wounded by the
HeartBeat
6
BOOK REVIEW
This Flowing Toward Me:
A Story of God Arriving in Strangers
BY MARY POMMERT
I
n 1979, Sr. Marilyn had a life-changing dream about a Thai refugee family that
had lived for a few weeks at her California convent. In the dream, she asks sixyear-old Chai, “What are you doing here?” The young boy replies with a grin,
“We’re here to teach you a new way of loving.” With those words, she writes, “It
may sound strange, but when I awoke, I was convinced that this was an invitation
from God to involve myself full-time in refugee work.”
Sr. Marilyn didn’t have any experience working with refugees, but that didn’t
stop her. She was restless in her current assignment, casting about for what to do
Sr. Marilyn Lacey, R.S.M. with Sudanese girls
next with her life. Her dream came shortly
after seeing a posting on the convent bulletin
board: Urgent! Refugees arriving at SFO from
Southeast Asia. Volunteers needed to assist
at the International Terminal.” So began
Sr. Marilyn’s 25-year adventure with refugees.
After leaving California, she went to Thailand
and worked in the Non Khai, Hui Suam, and
Ban Pheng refugee camps. She then spent
time in African camps, more time in Thailand,
and in the States resettling refugees.
Sr. Marilyn sprinkles her book with humorous stories about native foods she must learn
to eat, like broth soup filled with whole
miniature frogs. She recounts her phobic fear
of spiders and her encounter at the Kakuma
Camp in Kenya with the camel spider, a cross
between a scorpion and a spider that’s twice
the size of a tarantula!
Yet, woven in between her laugh-out-loud
This Flowing Toward Me:
A Story of God
tales of negotiating both exotic foods and
Arriving in Strangers
arachnids, she does learn a new way of loving,
just as the young Chai had foretold in the
By Marilyn Lacey, R.S.M.
dream years earlier. Sr. Marilyn writes with love
Ave
Maria Press/Notre Dame
and compassion about her beloved refugees,
Paperback/207 pages/$16.95
their anguished throw-away existence, the
dangers she faces, her difficulties adjusting to
American abundance each time she returns to the States, her faith struggle, and
the time God spoke to her about his concern for the poor. The “conversation”
relieved her escalating anger at God for his apparent indifference toward
her refugees.
St. Marilyn’s memoir is inspiring, even if the plight of refugees is not
uppermost on your mind. Her spiritual insights alone make the book worth
reading, especially the chapter from which the book gets its title, This Flowing
Toward Me. After driving past a church with the name, “The Wide Awake Church
of Life,” Sr. Marilyn sits up, takes notice, and wonders: Is spirituality mostly about
paying attention? “Both poets and refugees,” she writes, “have led me along this
great adventure of waking up.”
Sr. Marilyn will be coming to IHM on March 20, 2013 to talk about her life,
faith, and a new way of loving.
Nick Dawe, IHM School
Alum and Parishioner,
Becomes Elite
World Class Rower
BY KINNEY MOORE
A
s a neighbor, parishioner and someone who
watched Nick grow up, I wanted to write
about how I have seen a community wrap
their arms around and nurture this outstanding
young man. Nick went to Plovdiv, Bulgaria, to
compete in the World Rowing Championship. He will
be representing the USA in the eight-man lightweight
boat. This event does not go to the Olympics but
in the world of rowing represents the elite and best
senior rowers we have in the USA.
It is incredible to think of the journey this young
man has already undertaken. Many of you at IHM
will remember Nick as the blond hair, blue eyed son
of Chris and Lynnette Dawe who was quick to volunteer, to make friends, and to participate in every sport
at IHM. At our 9:30 mass he and his Dad regularly
lectored as a father-son team from Nick’s fifth grade
year at IHM to senior year of high school.
Nick, age 24, a graduate of IHM, St. Xavier High
School, and Dartmouth College, had his beginnings
in this parish. While at IHM he was an Honor
student, Christian Student and Effort Award winner,
Presidential Athletic Award winner, Server Captain,
September 2012
Nick and Chris Dawe in Plovdiv, Bulgaria
2001 Football and Track CYO Champion, and the
first Stewardship Award winner. Later in High School
he became an Eagle Scout of IHM Troop 694. His
days of being nurtured and developed by the teachers, coaches, and administrators of IHM have contributed to making him the man all of America can
be proud of today.
Since graduating from college he has undertaken a
position in New York City as a full-time Fordham
University Assistant Rowing Coach and Recruiting
Coordinator. Nick led one of the largest novice
squads in Fordham Women’s Rowing history to a
strong finish in the Novice Eight of the 2011 Dad Vail
Championships. When Nick was asked about why he
was so passionate about rowing he said, “I really like
that rowing is a sport that rewards work. It is one of
the few places that the hard work you put in is equivalent to what you get out of it.”
The seeds of passion and intensity for everything
Nick does were sown here at IHM. He was allowed
to excel academically, athletically, and spiritually. His
first grade teacher Elaine Connolly spent extra time
giving him higher level material to keep him challenged. Judy Gerwe, math gifted specialist, worked
with him for many years. Athletically, he was fortunate to be a part of a talented group of athletic peers
who all challenged each other to be the best and win
multiple city wide championships. Spiritually as a
fifth grader he made an appointment with Fr. Jan
Schmidt because he wanted to read Scripture during
mass. He enjoyed reading Scripture at the IHM Day
School Masses and wanted to read with his Dad at
the 9:30 Mass. Fr. Jan told him if Deacon Shea gave
his ok he was fine with him reading. Deacon Shea
told Nick if he did the training with the adults he
could Lector. As a result, Nick loves to talk in front
of large crowds.
The people of the parish, friends, neighbors, and
family develop every child to become outstanding
adults. The IHM community can be proud of the role
it has played in developing this young man and his
journey through life especially as he represents the
USA in the World Rowing Championships!
HeartBeat
September 2012
7
Gala 2012–Mardi Gras Masquerade a Success…
Save the Date for Gala 2013–Mardi Gras
BY ANGIE VAUGHAN
O
ver 200 guests enjoyed the 2012 Gala, a
Mardi Gras celebration filled with auctions,
raffles, music, dinner, fun and fellowship.
With the support of parishioners, businesses and
friends, the 2012 Gala raised a record $31,363.
The day school received over $15,680 of the funds
for tuition assistance; the youth group received
over $10,400 for programming support such as
retreats and attending March for Life; and the
Parish Religion Program received over $5,200 for
tuition assistance. Over $110,000 has been raised
for these programs over the past four years through
the Winter Gala.
Planning already is underway for the 2013
Winter Gala, which will be held on Feb. 2, 2013 at
Receptions Eastgate. This year’s Gala Co-Chairs are
Caroline Reidy and Angie Vaughan and they are
excited to help plan for another wonderful event.
Please watch the bulletin later this fall for information on volunteer opportunities and other ways to
help support the Winter Gala. Watch your mailbox
in early December for your invitation to this
great event. Please contact Angie Vaughan at
vaughan@cinci.rr.com if you would like more
information about the Winter Gala.
Todd and Chrissy
Schneider
Christy Berning and
Jenny Goodlett
Spiritual Motherhood: My Experience
BY AN IHM PARISHIONER
W
hen I first heard the invitation
to become a Spiritual Mother,
I thought to myself … yes,
I want to be a spiritual mother. But I
understood it in the sense that I wanted
to raise my daughters as a spiritual
mother and was interested in ways to
better my efforts in doing so. Much to
my surprise, the meaning of becoming a
Spiritual Mother had little to do with my
children and everything to do with our
priests, young men contemplating
answering the call to become priests and
men and boys who may not yet hear the
call to become priests or even deacons.
As I learned more about Spiritual
Motherhood, I quickly made the decision to become a part of it. After all, all
you have to commit to doing is say a
few prayers every day. You can choose
to pray for a single priest, multiple priests,
unknown men and boys — whatever
works for you. You can spend two
seconds or two hours a day in prayer
for this cause. It’s that easy!
Once I committed, I made the decision
to pray for five priests and two boys in
my life. I also pray for two wonderful
religious women who do as much
important work in our Church as the
priests. And I serve up prayers for priests
in general and for more men and women
to commit themselves to religious life.
It has been an interesting journey. I
am ashamed to say that I never really
prayed for our priests before I became a
Spiritual Mother. But now that I do, I
have become so much more in tuned to
gaining a little better understanding of
the enormous responsibility they take on
when they commit themselves to marrying the Church. I am so humbled by
their faith, service and selflessness. I cannot imagine the enormity of what they
carry from day to day. I mean this in the
sense that not only do they have the
responsibility to carry out the tasks of
their job from day to day, but how they
carry the cross of all the individuals and
families in our parish: listening and praying for everyone who brings their problems, concerns, tragedy, sadness, loneliness, illness, etc., and most importantly,
their sins to them asking for forgiveness,
help, guidance and prayer.
he reality is that most people
don’t bring their joy to our priests
as much as they bring their troubles. Can you imagine how draining the
constancy of hard times and sadness
day after day must be for these men? To
me, the only way it is humanly possible
to manage this part of their priesthood
is with the Holy Spirit. So, in essence, it
is not humanly possible.
During this past Lenten season,
Father Tom shared two very poignant
examples of how people deal with the
T
for these two families. It was then that I
realized how daunting the amount of
this type of sadness must be when we
bring it to our priests…when we ask
them to help us to hang it on the Cross.
think it is fair to say that our priests
are available to us for everything and
we especially need them when we are
devastated by something. I am confident
that they would say that they want us to
come to them in times of need. But
wouldn’t it be great to share our joy with
them more often? Wouldn’t it be great to
share our joy and gratefulness with our
Lord and Savior more often?
How about considering starting your
day with a few prayers for our priests and
religious and a few prayers of gratitude?
I am only beginning my journey into
Spiritual Motherhood. I am so grateful
for the opportunity to pray for our
priests, religious and anyone who may
commit themselves to our Church. It
has rewarded me with new insights and
nuggets of wisdom that I would not
have been blessed with had I never
entered into this special ministry. I look
forward to what the future brings in
this ministry and would encourage
everyone to become a Spiritual Mother,
Father, Sister or Brother. It’s not supposed to be for us, but it provides
an abundance of blessings. As with
anything…give and you shall receive.
(Luke 6:38)
I
wounds of the Cross every day. He
spoke of a young family from our twinning parish in Stanton, Ky., who gave
birth to a stillborn baby and of close
friends of his niece who had adopted a
baby and had the baby for four months
when the birth parents rescinded the
adoption. These two stories took my
breath away and made me feel like my
knees would buckle underneath me.
Father Tom was so clearly devastated
8
HeartBeat
September 2012
Celebrating CRHP at IHM:
30 Years of Fun, Faith, Friendships
Jesus—that doesn’t mean I am—but God
knows I’m trying!” ~ Susan Scheidler
• “Although it’s been several years
atti Mueller of Team #26 sums it up
since I went through the wonderful
perfectly. “Fun, Faith and Friendships
experience of CRHP, I still feel connected
for a lifetime! All in one amazing
to the woman of Team 48. Lasting
weekend.” Christ Renews His Parish
(CRHP) retreat has been alive at IHM
friendships were formed for me on
since 1982. IHM is celebrating its 30th
that weekend. When I see any of them,
year of CRHP. We are so blessed to not
we don’t skip a beat . . . a hug and warm
only have this ministry within our parish,
smile and hello are always exchanged.”
but also the strong Christian community
~ Teri Eyer, Team #4
it develops from those attending the
• “The participation we have in this
retreat. It is an exciting milestone to
program and the commitment of the
have this experience available, as well as
CRHP continuation team is one thing
CRHP’s capability to hold such a special
that makes IHM such a strong, active
place in the hearts of all those who
parish. I have met many people while
have participated.
working on different activities at IHM,
While people who experience the
but when I see someone I know from
process experience it at different levels of
CRHP, I feel a special connection with
Women’s CRHP Team #60
intensity, most would say it is an authenthat person because of the shared
Left to Right First Row: Tamara Hayas, Terry Alvarez, Pat Carroll, Stephanie Knarr, experience we had with this retreat.”
tic encounter with God. People describe
Tina Uhlenbrock, Shirley Walker, Judy Koesters and Sandy Hilmer
experiencing God more intimately. From
~ Cathy Navey, CRHP Team 49
Second Row: Carrie Thelen, Mary Ellen Kramer, Maria VanBemmel,
those with little faith, to those who
• “CRHP was the catalyst to connect
Mary Fleischmann, Jessica Metzger, Laura Peterson, Barb Szucsik, Jackie Kardasz, me to IHM in a special way, deepening
have been ordained for many years, all
Leicia Milano, Jennifer Runte, Marsha Strominger and Joannie McHugh
my faith and sparking my desire to connect
leave with a renewed experience with
the Holy Spirit (National Office, Christ
to other ministries. I have been privileged
Renews His Parish).
to watch so many other women and men grow in faith, find lifelong friends and
The retreat is engaging to all participants, ages 18 – 80+ years old, by including
enrich their families after participating in CRHP.” ~ Nancy Kleespies, Team 24
group activities, discussions, prayer and sacraments. It takes place throughout the
• “I am a cradle-Catholic and I attended Catholic schools my entire childhood,
IHM campus and there is no cost to attend this wonderful retreat.
but it wasn’t until CRHP that my faith truly came alive. It was an amazing, and
We are looking ahead to the fall retreats for both men and women. We invite all
completely unexpected, time of reconciliation and spiritual growth for me. And, my
of you to continue your spiritual journey with us. In celebrating the 30 years of
CRHP sisters are some of the dearest friends I’ve ever made! This retreat is for everysuccess we have had with CRHP at IHM, we’d like to share with you the reflections
one, at every stage of faith, and I highly recommend it.” ~ Kelly Kleiner, Team 39
of a few parishioners who have participated in the retreat.
• “It’s the best gift you can give yourself. I have never grown more spiritually
• “I was a member of Team #2 and the spiritual director of several other
than during my CRHP journey. I felt so close to the Lord during my CRHP
teams. This process started me on a spiritual journey 30 years ago that continues
formation — He truly led me to and through this experience. The women in my
team became my CRHP sisters. They know the true me and I see Christ more
today, and friendships that have lasted 3 decades. God Bless CRHP and IHM for
directly in them then in anyone else.” ~ Susana Ramirez, Team 52
continuing the process all these years.” ~ Pat Berning
• “I entered my first CRHP weekend not knowing what to expect … I left think• “I had never participated in anything like this and was way out of my coming what a wonderful world we live in and what a great gift God has given us … life
fort zone. Thankfully, something called me to take part in CRHP and it was a wonderful, eye-opening, peaceful and spiritual weekend.” ~ Stephanie Bloemer
and friends to share it with. I truly felt the Holy Spirit at work.” ~ Jim Vorwald
• “As one of the original members of CRHP Team 1, I feel like the matriarch of
• “Although I had been in the parish for many years, I didn’t know that many
“chir-pers”[and I wasn’t that young in 1982!] My faith life was enriched by that
people. CRHP was a spiritual way to meet good men, increase my faith, and get
grace filled weekend, my commitment and affection for the IHM parish family
involved.” ~ Ed Birck, Team #47
remains a powerful bond today.” ~ Judy Chandler
• “I was 25 years old and
Women’s Weekend:
• “I was on CRHP Team 12 and, quite simply, CRHP changed my life! So
pregnant with my second child,
Saturday, October 6 – Sunday, October 7
much became clearer in my life: my purpose, my relationships with Christ and
Kristen, when I went, and when
Contact Person: Stephanie Knarr
with others. All the ‘busyness’ of daily life suddenly didn’t matter as much as my
I gave, she was two weeks old.
stephanieknarr@fuse.net
relationships with Him and others. I made some wonderful friends through the
I was new to the parish also
Stephanie Knarr phone 513-474-5654
Receiving and Giving teams. Although many of our original members have moved
moving from a different part of
on, CRHP is a very special gift that I highly recommend!” ~ Jan Snell
the world, Jackson, Miss. CRHP
• “I was a member of team 43. I was born into IHM parish 44 years ago, and
helped me as well as my husband Men’s Weekend:
Saturday, October 27 – Sunday, October 28
was asked multiple times to take part in CRHP. I had no desire to make the commitChris connect with wonderful
Contact Person: John Bauer
ment, and said ‘no’ over and over again. I finally agreed after hearing about Vickie
people in the parish. We were
johnfollowsgod@live.com
Miller’s experience, and receiving an invitation. I told her I would only take part in
both a part of team 14. We have
John Bauer cell phone: 513-207-7799
been happy parishioners for 24
the retreat, and would not continue beyond that. Needless to say, it was a life changyears. God Bless IHM! Happy
ing experience for me, and I jumped in head first with no regrets. Seven years later,
30th CRHP IHM!!” ~ Lynnette
our group continues to meet through formation and social events. I walked into a
Merrell Dawe
room full of strangers and left the weekend with 12 close friends who felt more like
• “Our CRHP team has been meeting for over 20 years. We have walked the
family members. We are a small but mighty group! My faith has grown in so many
path of life together as sisters and friends and have supported each other through
ways through this wonderful gift of CRHP. We are blessed to have the opportunity
to take part in such an amazing journey through our parish.” ~ Mari Enders
births, graduations, weddings, deaths, illness, and employment changes. We still
• “CRHP had a major role in kick starting my spiritual growth.”
get together a couple of times per year. I can truly say that the relationships born
~ Sue Preece Team 24
from CRHP have made all the difference in my life.” ~ Michelle Beckham-Corbin,
• “CRHP not only gave me the spiritual renewal I needed, but allowed me to see
CRHP Team 12
God working through SO many individuals. I made some wonderful friendships but
• “CRHP changed my life in such a positive way. It gave me a humble underI most importantly put my feet on the path God had planned for me. That path is
standing that at the end of the day and when you strip us down to our souls, we are
still in front of me. Together with God, family, friends and the IHM community I am
all God’s children—perfect in His image—and equal.” ~ Cindy O ‘Connor, Team #53
managing to take a step or so occasionally. I may try to rush along sometimes, but
After reading these reflections, if you feel it might be your time to participate in
God knows how to slow me down so I can see what is really important. CRHP was
CRHP, please contact the invitation coordinator (see box) for your retreat information.
my beginning of truly understanding what we are called to do and be as disciples of
We look forward to the journey together!
BY STEPHANIE KNARR
P
HeartBeat
September 2012
9
Bob Hilmer
promoting the festival
in the July 4 Parade
Major raffle winners Ruth Alering and Lillian Pfaller with Fr. Tom Kreidler
2012 Sponsors
MAJOR SPONSORS
Bove, Connolly, & Taylor
Financial Group
Cincinnati Spine Institute –
Anthony Guanciale, M.D.
D.A.G. Construction Co., Inc.
Park National Bank –
Anderson /Amelia
T.P. White & Sons – Funeral Home
SPONSORS
All Creatures Animal Hospital
Ameristop – Beechmont
Archbishop McNicholas High School
Arnold Printing
Auxier Gas, Inc.
Beechmont Ford
Berno Financial Management
Burd Bros. Trucking, Inc.
Debra Kuempel
Dunphy Wealth Management
Eastgate Animal Hospital
Eme Fence Co., Inc.
Hayes – Eadie, Inc.
Home City Ice
Huff Realty
IHM Athletic Boosters
IHM FATHERS Team
Jersey Mike's – Beechmont
Kelley, Galloway, & Co., PSC
Kellogg’s
Knights of Columbus
Motz Heating & Cooling
Thor Investvestment Mgmt.
Transamerica Life Insurance
2012 IHM FESTIVAL PATRONS
PLATINUM PATRON
Anonymous
GOLD PATRON
Filak Family
Suzanne & James Kopcha
Carmen & Bob Hodge
Harry & Pat Manton
SILVER PATRON
Margaret Betscher
Vic & Karen Borejka
Kathryn & Tom Dooling
Don & Pat Francis
Len, Christine & Jeremy Leber
Don & Mary Lee Olinger
Ned & Ellen Rohan
Richard Schimpf
Anne Marie Wolfer
2012 Festival pup “Zoe”
BRONZE PATRON
Gene & Rosanna Ardine
Balda Family
Donald Barrett
Lee & Genevieve Beran
Ed & Debbie Birck
Paul & Beth Bollman
Mike & Pat Carroll
Gloria Ann & Michael Castleman
Judy & Guy Chandler
Ronald Coleman
Jen & Kevin Conway
Matt & Joanne Curoe
Virginia & Harry DeMaio
Al & Maureen Dufour
Jane & Terry Elfers
Finnigan Family
Barb & Doug Fleming
Roland & Linda Gabriel, Sr.
Judy Goeppinger
Jim & Gerri Grassinger
Ralph & Barbara Gruppo
Mary & Jim Haney
Bob & Sandy Hilmer
Jim & Bonnie Houlehan
Judy Houston
Gloria Ingram
Earl & Julie Kehres
Kelly Kleiner & Ken Kocher
Bob & Judy Koesters
Jim & Betty Lape
Ed & Gail Lear
Jess & Gina Luna
Kenneth & Tammy Mai
Lisa & Michael Mattingly
Janice & Brian McGinnis
Kenneth McMullin
Bill & Jeanette Miller
Margie Parish
Joseph & Terri Parker
Remembering Jim & Betty
Carol Rhoney
The Riccardi Family
The Ropp Family
Linda & Dave Ruehlman
Dick & Gert Schweikert
Marty & Barb Sexton
Dan & Jessica Shelly
Louis & Susan Staub
Cherri & Dennis Sweeney
John & Barbara Szucsik
David & Charity Taylor
Dick Tobin
Pete & Kate Tucci
Betsy Turner
Tom & Janice Wiles
Jan Willenborg
Dottie Wilmers
HeartBeat
10
September 2012
The Body of Christ in Mission
BY SUE KEEFE
T
his summer 25 IHM/McNicholas individuals
visited our twinning community, Cultural
Center of Batahola Norte. Some of the
comments they shared follow:
Jeanne Vorwald: We were literally strangers, yet we
were treated as family. I hated to leave my friends in
Nicaragua, not knowing if I will ever see them again,
but I will always be grateful for their gifts to me.
I truly want to thank them, with my whole heart,
for the gifts of unconditional friendship and love.
A friendship which was free from prejudice and
discrimination, and a love which was given freely
with no strings attached.
ful mural of baby Jesus that was painted above the
theatre. From that point, I knew that I didn’t have to
know a single Spanish word, where they lived, how
much money they had. None of that was important.
The fact that we came from thousands of miles to
visit them and be a part of their lives was enough for
them, and I was ready to make an impact on their
lives in any way possible.
Carolyn Carlton: As I describe the mission trip to
my family, friends and coworkers, I realize that it is
not so much about the week’s activities and events
that are important, but the continued unity of our
twinning communities. The solidarity of our communities is apparent by the deepening relationships that
have grown through the years. The people of Batahola
Norte were gracious, welcoming, grateful and giving
to both old and new friends from Cincinnati. God
has blessed us with a gift that allows us to share
these blessings tenfold.
Matt Forsthoefel: The music that the kids played in
the Center was also amazing. It seemed like everyone
at the center was musically gifted and really loved
playing music. The little boy and girl that played the
xylophone blew me away.
Matt Szucsik: I saw the face of Christ the most in
the children of Nicaragua. They didn’t seem to be
affected by the poverty that they had, and they were
always smiling even when they didn’t understand
what we were saying.
Kate Pettit
Charlie Pfizenmayer: Can one week help you see
and hear more clearly? Do you know what I saw in
the face of the poor in this community? It was the
smile of little children looking back at me. Do you
know what I heard? It was the joy in the voices of
the staff and volunteers who minister to the poor
who come to this oasis of peace in search of assistance
both in body and spirit.
Anna Heineke: On our last day in Managua we
helped the staff of the Cultural Center paint the
inside and playground of a nearby elementary school.
It was hot work but afterward we cooled down by
playing games from both countries and having a
pizza lunch. That night we went to Mass.
Michael Sanker: There I met the people, young and
old, at the center. The center is a beautiful place.
More beautiful are those people that occupy the
center. The Nicaraguans we met weren’t just nice,
they genuinely wanted to meet, get to know, and play
with you. All I experienced was happiness.
Kate Gorman: All my pre-notions changed once I
walked into the center and was able to see the beauti-
Kathryn Scheidler and Anna
Matt Forsthoefel and Melina Hazzard
Kate Pettit: I remember how prideful the teacher
was who gave us a tour of her house. She was not
afraid to show us how she lives. She lived in a house
probably about the size of my kitchen. It was amazing to see that her and her family live in such close
quarters. She was so proud that it was her house and
that she had bought it on her own.
Kathryn Scheidler: The one person who will stay
with me forever, my “lasting face of Christ,” was a
woman who worked at the center, Ivania Pineda. I
was in her group during our dinner out with the
staff. At dinner, she was very well spoken and confident. She wasn't afraid to ask us her questions and
was open to all of ours. She explained to me
“machismo” which is basically male power. She told
me how in Nicaragua it is a huge problem and the
women are working really hard to win their rights.
I then asked her how most men viewed girls like
her who were so involved in the women's rights.
It moved me that women feel so strongly for equal
rights. They are fighting the same fight our greatgrandmothers fought and I know that they can
do it. She will forever be in my heart and prayers
because she has impacted my life with her strength
and attitude towards life.
Susan Keefe: This trip marks my 10th as the leader.
The faces of Christ that I see every year are the IHM
and CCBN people. We are mission and solidarity at
work, at prayer, and at play. We were blessed to have
McNicholas High School students and faculty join us.
CCBN continues to grow and improve.
Planned Giving Committee’s Tribute to Father William Schroeder
BY JOAN CARDONE
I
n the summer of 2010, Immaculate Heart of Mary
formed the Planned Giving Committee as part of
the Stewardship Commission. The purpose and
function of the Planned Giving Committee is to
encourage, educate and provide service to our
parishioners to remember Immaculate Heart of Mary
in their Wills and through their estate planning.
Although the Commission has only been in existence a few years, Planned Giving has been an integral part of the parish’s Stewardship Program for
many years thanks to the efforts of our former
pastor, Father William Schroeder. During his tenure
as pastor from 1972 to 1984, Father Bill encouraged
parishioners to remember IHM in their estate plans.
He would make personal visits to parishioners to discuss the benefits of naming IHM as the beneficiary of
their estate. He emphasized the importance of such
gifts in the future work of the parish as we continue
Christ’s ministry on earth. In addition, such gifts
make a positive statement to your family and friends
of your priorities. Father Bill did more than just
encourage others to give to IHM through their estate
plans. When he died, he left a substantial part of
his estate to IHM.
If you remember IHM as a beneficiary of your
estate plan, you become a member of the parish’s
Legacy Society. Many of the members of the
Legacy Society made their gifts as a result of
Father Bill’s efforts to be certain that funds would
be available for the continued mission of the
parish. For that reason, the Planned Giving
Committee pays tribute and thanks today to
Father William Schroeder. We hope we can
continue his traditions now and into the future.
For more information on how to become a member
of the IHM Legacy Society contact Joan Cardone at
388-4084 or joanc@ihom.org.
HeartBeat
September 2012
11
Housewarming Catalog
Donor Recognition as of Aug. 14, 2012
Thank you to everyone who
contributed toward our catalog
campaign. Your generous contributions have enabled us to
obtain a wide variety of items
needed for our Parish Welcome
Center, Preschool and Priest
Retirement House.
Anonymous (3)
Josephine Ansems
Eugene & Rosanna Ardine
Thomas & Joann Armstrong
Donald & Karen Barrett
Edward & Kimberly Bayliss
Renaldo & Patricia Beltramo
Richard & Cynthia Bentley
Dean & Suzanne Berry
James & JoAnn Best
Margaret Betscher
Frederick & Barbara Betz
Carol Black
Stephen & Jeannine Blatt
Jeffrey & Erica Blumenthal
Janet Boldt
Paul & Beth Bollman
Debra Bonacci
Scott & Tracy Boone
David & Vicki Borne
Bill & Kim Bresler
Joseph & Linda Brueggemeyer
Sylvia Brune
David & Rebecca Burbick
Jesse & Holly Burkholder
Paul & Catherine Callahan
Jack & Kathleen Carissimi
Michael & Patricia Carroll
Jim & Eileen Cary
Michael & Marjorie Cassani
Michael & Gloria Ann Castleman
Michael & Margaret Collier
Mary Connaughton
Kenneth & Ruth Cornish
Gary & Joyce Cowens
Jeff & Phyllis Cramer
George & Rosemary Cullen, Jr.
Frank & Carol Darling
Jim & Missy Davis
Edwin & Darla Dawson
Michael & Taffy Dee
Greg & Susan DeFisher
Richard & Linda DelCore
Jo DeSalvo
Joseph & Diane Detzel, Jr.
Clyde & Mary Dial
Fred & Maureen Dikeman
Kirk & Mikki Doerger
Daniel & Rula Driggers
Alfred & Maureen Dufour
Patricia Dunn
Terrance & Jane Elfers
John & Judy Fahrmeier
Jeff & Jeanne Feldkamp
David & Angela Ficker
Richard & Cindy Fiddes
Joseph P. Finnigan
Virginia Finnigan
C. Russell & Carol Flatt
Donna Flinn
Donald & Patricia Francis
Duke & Jane Fredricks
H. Garrett & Mimi Frey
Brian & Susan Fulmer
Jack & Dee Gauche
Thomas & Arden Geers
Andrew & Julie Goshorn
William & MaryAnn Gowen
Robert & Suzanne Grethel
Mary Ann Hagen
William & Judith Haines
Michael & Margaret Handleton
James & Mary Haney
Joseph & Teresa Hayden, III
Jeffrey & Karen Hebeler
Mary Kay Hemmer
Jeffrey & Barbara Hendricks
Doug & Lisa Henkes
Steven & Anne Herbert
Robert & Sandra Hilmer
James & Judy Hoctor
Roger & Susan Hoffman
John & Judy Houston
Stephen & Laura Hudock
Paul & Deanna Hurtubise
Bob & Barb Isemann
Frances Isemann
Andy & Katie Jones
Phyllis Jones
Jason & Angela Jordan
Mike & Eva Jordan
Ron & Bette Kahle
Robert & Jacqueline Kardasz
Anthony Kenneally & Loretta
Williams Kenneally
Shawn & Melissa Kennedy
Pat Kinsella
Robert & Maxine Kling
Cheri Klink
Joe & Denise Klett
Roger & Janet Klug
Robert & Evelyn Knabb
Robert & Judy Koesters
Harry & Shannon Lafkas
Mary Ann Lambert
Robert Lammert
Dan & Lisa Lape
Ann Leder
James & Christine Lenahan
Lancelot & Rosemarie Lewis
Gilbert & Janice Linz
Michael & Kristin Lowe
Larry & Ellen Lowery
M.S. Co.
Ken & Tammy Mai
Joseph Malloni
Harry & Pat Manton
Gordon Massa
James & Lisa Mather
Bernie & Julie McCormick
Jack McDonald
Kevin & Nancy McDonough
Brian & Lisa McHale
Kenneth McMullin
Helen Meara
Shaun & Suzanne Meiners
Jeff & Lara Messerly
Alvin & Georgeann Meyer, Sr.
Michael & Leicia Milano
Don & Jennifer Miller
Marilyn Miller
Walt Moll & Joanne Middlekamp
Thomas & Marie Monaco
Sean & Denise Mullarkey
Raymond & Carolyn Naegele
Chris & Patricia Nau
Anna Neess
Jim & Gayle Niestradt
Ann O'Leary
Stanley & Catherine Ochs
Donald & Mary Lee Olinger
Mark & Amy Oliva
Peter & Wendy Olmsted
Milton & Estelle Partridge
Michael & Stacey Piening
Tim & Pat Planitz
Chris & Beth Pollock
Carl & Marilyn Quinn
David & Patricia Rahner
Anthony Ravagnani & Andrea Heil
Joe & Juliann Renner
Jan Richards
Cody & Abbie Rinehart
Paula Riordan
David & Sherry Ritzenthaler
Robert & Barbara Robers
Carol Roberto
Patrick & Elizabeth Rogers
Carlos Rojas-Gaona & Arelys
Madero-Hernandez
Reid Rooney
Robert & Johanna Roscoe
James & Karen Ross
Jean Rotella
L.S. Trey & Debra Rouse
Gerald & Nancy Runnels
Christian & Jennifer Runte
James & Deborah Schapker
John & Renee Scheidler
John & Melinda Scheper
Arlene Schneider
Kevin & Susan Schonauer
Gregory & Patricia Schroer
Kevin & Kelly Schulte
J. Kevin & Kathleen Scott
Larry & Kathleen Sheanshang
Judy Sherlock
Shawn & Kim Simmons
Edward & Mary Lou Skelly
Eddie & Ruby Smith
Louis & Susan Staub
Todd & Heather Steiger
James & Mary Anne Stockmeier
Rick & Elizabeth Stuart
Peter & Shirley Suddeth
Michael & Shirley Suter
Allen & Bev Tabe
Kitty Tallarico
Todd & Wendy Teismann
Mary Ann Thoman
Dick Tobin
Mario & Robyn Tore
Evelyn Toro-Litts
Peter & Kate Tucci
Brian Vaughan & Jessica Metzger
Thomas & Angela Vaughan
John & Jennifer Voet
Gertrude Weaver
David & Lisa Weber
Keith & Julie Weyler
Dale & Jacqueline White
Janice Whitford
Janet Willenborg
Arnold & Marianne Williger
Ronald & Peggy Wolf
Anne Wolfer
George & Christine Wolfer
Anthony & Roxanne Your
Richard & Germaine Zimmerman
Ralph Zumwalde
Special thanks to the following
organizations that supported
this effort:
Finance Commission
IHM FATHERS Team
IHM PTO
MAGIC
Men's CRHP #50
Our Lady of Grace Carmelites
Parish Council
Stewardship Commission
Women's CRHP #56
WOW Bible Study Group
Young Mom's Bible Study
Congrats!
He attended the dinner at the White House with his
wife Mary. David is the brother of Mary Ann Dillon
and nephew of Dick and Pat Riehle.
Ted Bergh has been appointed Executive Director
of Community Services for the Archdiocese of
Cincinnati and Chief Executive Officer of Catholic
Charities of Southwestern Ohio. CCSWO provides
services in four areas: childhood and family, new
Americans, neighbors in distress, and seniors.
Before he accepted this position, he served as
interim director of the Cincinnati Metropolitan
Housing Authority.
The Immaculate Heart of Mary Cheerleaders
have taken cheerleading to the next level and are
now competing in local Cheer Competitions. On
July 28, our 4th/5th grade competition squad entered
their very first competition at the Clermont County
Fair Cheer Competition. They won first place in the
PeeWee Division and also won the Spirit Award over
all the divisions! The Spirit Award is quite an honor
as it is not only spirit within your own squad, but
also showing good sportsmanship to the other participating squads as well. In addition to cheering
competitively, the girls also cheer for their IHM
Crusader football teams. The cheerleaders are Katie
Cueto, Maura Cueto, Jaida Herzog, Katie Marshall,
Nia McDonough, Abby Mentzel, Ellie Rudolph,
Megan Suckow, Loghan Voelker and Allison Young.
The coaches are Nikki Rudolph, Kathy Cueto and
Kim Weiker.
Chief Warrant Officer 5 David F. Cooper, a 1974
graduate of Immaculate Heart of Mary School, was
invited by President and Mrs. Obama to have dinner
at the White House on Feb. 29, 2012. Mr. Obama
honored members of the Armed Forces who have
served in Iraqi Freedom and Operation New Dawn.
CW5 Cooper was chosen as the military person to
represent the state of Ohio. He is a highly decorated
soldier who has been serving his country for 28 years.
HeartBeat
12
September 2012
CDs Offer ‘On the Go’
Catholic Learning
Social Ministries Hosts
Sr. Helen Prejean
BY ERICA SCHUETTER
BY JEANNINE BLATT
S
A
imple is good. It does not get much simpler than grab and go. Grab a CD and go learn
something new about our faith. Listen during your commute to work, while you’re at
home, at the gym, taking a walk, or during the kids’ practice while you wait.
What’s new in the Lighthouse Catholic Media CD kiosk in the gathering space?
Did you see the recent film For Greater Glory about the Catholic persecution in Mexico in
the 1920s? Did you know there were Catholic martyrs killed in North America as late as
1927? Learn more about the Cristero War with the Patrick Madrid CD Attack on Religious
Liberty. This title is also available in Spanish.
Did your kids go to Vacation Bible School? Grab a CD and learn more about some of the
many holy men and women mentioned during IHM’s Vacation Bible School this past summer.
Even if you didn’t have kids at VBS, these CDs are a fantastic way to learn about some truly
amazing and inspiring people:
• From Slave to Priest: Fr. Augustine Tolton, the first African American priest in America
• Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati: an inspiring young man born in 1901 in Italy who loved
good friends, hiking, skiing, music and serving Our Lord in the poor.
• St. Joan of Arc, who is featured in a Glory Stories CD for kids
• Attack on Religious Liberty: People like Blessed Father Miguel Pro, a martyr, who stood up
to persecution in Mexico
The CDs currently in the kiosk cover a wide range of topics. Here are just a few more options:
• Looking Beyond: The Gospel of John and the Sacraments. This talk was given to a group of
college students by Dr. John Bergsma of the Franciscan University of Steubenville.
• Trust in the Lord is a practical talk for everyone–no matter where you are on your spiritual journey.
• In Answering Atheism Ken Hensley shows that the atheistic worldview cannot stand up to
simple, effective logic and sound reasoning.
CDs are available in the kiosk in the gathering space. So, grab a CD and go learn something new!
You’ll be glad you did!
Family Catechesis
Returns This Fall
BY KATE TUCCI
T
he first four Wednesdays in October will once
again find Heritage Hall full of all kinds of families enjoying a hot family meal together, and
learning about their Catholic faith. This session will
be “Let’s Take It Outside.” The teachings will focus
on God’s plan for living our faith out Monday
through Saturday. In response to what families themselves have told us they want to learn about, this session will feature a Catholic Moral Theologian and a
Church Historian explaining exactly WHAT our
Church teaches and what it does NOT, and how it
does indeed collide with our culture. As we learn we
continue to realize that nothing much has changed in
seemingly simple agreement to
become a pen pal to a death row
inmate changed the course of
Sr. Helen Prejean’s life forever. IHM’s
Social Ministries Commission welcomed
author and advocate Sr. Helen Prejean, SCJ,
to speak April 30 as part of their Social
Forum on the Sanctity of Life. Her talk
“Dead Man Walking Revisited” recounted
her role in shaping the Catholic Church’s
opposition to state execution.
Sr. Helen also spoke to 7th grade
students at IHM and McNicholas High
School students and held a round table
discussion with members of the IHM
Youth Group.
“I was genuinely moved when Sister Helen spoke of the last minutes before a person's execution. Every person Sister Helen counseled
left this world with their last words as ‘I love you.’ I remember her
saying that everyone wants to die with love on their lips, no matter
what sins they committed in their life,” recalled Julie Farmer, Youth
Group member.
Sister Helen said the gift of being a Catholic is embracing the
“seamless garment of life”— respecting the dignity of life from conception until natural death. Her message is consistent with the
Principles of Catholic Social Teaching and respecting life. She reminded
her audience that forgiving violence does not mean condoning violence.
Sr. Helen believes the profound moral question is not “Do they deserve
to die?” but "Do we deserve to kill them?"
Sister Helen began her prison ministry in 1981 when she dedicated
her life to the poor of New Orleans. While living in a housing project,
she became pen pals with Patrick Sonnier, the convicted killer of two
teenagers, sentenced to die in the electric chair. Her first book, Dead
Man Walking, recounted how her relationship with Sonnier opened
her eyes to our capital punishment system. Dead Man Walking was
made into a movie in 1995. Her second book, The Death of Innocents
(2006), highlights her experiences with wrongful executions.
IHM’s evening with Sr. Helen provided opportunities for parishioners
to learn more about the death penalty in Ohio. Sr. Alice Gerdeman, CDP,
Coordinator of the InterCommunity Justice and Peace Center —
Cincinnati (IJPC), was on board to provide information on current
events in Ohio. Sr. Margie Efkeman, OSU, current Board Chair of
IJPC, likened Sr. Helen to a modern day prophet, who listened to
God’s call and bravely answered “yes.”
More information on the death penalty in Ohio and United States
can be found at www.ijpc-cincinnati.org and www.prejean.org.
2,000 years and that the Church has always courageously taught the TRUTH, much of it inconvenient.
We will be welcoming Father Mike Seger and
Msgr. Frank Lane for these sessions.
Debbie Birck, IHM Pastoral Associate sums up the
Family Catechesis Program: “I am so excited that
IHM is presenting another Family Catechesis program. Last year was a wonderful success with our
families telling us it was the best thing they did for
their families. Many gave up other commitments for
those four weeks nights and they were thrilled they
did. We had single and retired adults, couples without children and couples with children. All loved
interacting over a delicious dinner each week. I
enjoyed seeing children and adults form some new
friendships and begin to look for one another as the
session progressed. The adults are telling us the
content of the sessions has been just what they have
been looking for. We repeatedly hear from so many
that were raised Catholic, attended 12 years or more
of Catholic schools that they just don’t know what
the Catholic Church really teaches. They tell us they
felt like they slept though class! They were not
sleeping. The Church acknowledges that she did not
do the best job of Catechizing and we are actually in
“catch up” mode and gently correcting “in love”
beliefs, some which are widely held by Catholics
that are quite dangerous to their Faith life. We have
had the wonderful experience here at IHM, that
once our Faith is properly explained by our priests
(affectionately dubbed “Men in Black”) most people
“get it”, and feel empowered to pass Church teaching correctly on to their children and grandchildren
and to explain it to people of other faiths to reach
out to them in love.”
Pope Benedict has pronounced this “The Year
of Faith.” With that as our blessing and mission, and
with a great team from the Evangelization & Catechesis
Commission and Social Justice Commission working
together we plan to make it a fun night as well! If you
have any questions about the program please call the
Formation Office at 388-4093.
HeartBeat
September 2012
Sacred Vows
Erica Hudson and Ken Birck
BY MARY POMMERT
A
s first impressions go, Ken said, he probably didn’t look all that promising to Erica as a lifelong partner. “I was jobless with a motorcycle and living with my grandparents,” he kidded.
But first impressions don’t always paint the true picture. Ken had graduated from college
and was looking for a job in IT. He soon landed one with LCS, a technology consulting firm.
Their first date was a double date to Carrabba’s restaurant. Erica said mutual friends fixed them
up, “figuring we’d make a perfect couple.” Three months into the relationship, Ken said he knew
that Erica was the one. She said she knew for sure that it was “forever” one year after being together.
Erica is the self-proclaimed extrovert of the two, he the introvert but also the one who kids
around more. They’re both planners. They postponed marriage for more than five years because
“they had goals.” Those goals included Erica graduating from college and finding work which
she did in Kroger’s retailing department. Ken also wanted to buy a house “before spending
money for a wedding.”
They picked Friday, July 13th, for their wedding date because Erica’s parents were married on
Friday the 13th 33 years earlier. That in itself made the day memorable, but another personal twist
involved classic 1960’s cars. Her father is a car collector, so seven “muscle cars” escorted the bridal
party from IHM to the reception. Erica
and Ken rode in a 1968 Oldsmobile
442, the same car she was brought
home from the hospital in when she was
born. “It was a lot different than the
usual limo and cheaper, too,” she joked.
Erica grew up in the Catholic Church
and always wanted a church wedding.
Plus, she said, “I knew it would make
my grandmother happy, and you want
to please everyone.” Ken said it was his
mother’s number one wish that he get
married in a church. Deacon Dave Shea
officiated at the wedding and also
met with Erica and Ken as the couple
prepared for marriage. Dave said during
the meetings they talked about the
Sacrament of Marriage and how, unlike
all the other sacraments, the bride and
the groom receiving the sacrament are
also the ministers. They minister the sacrament to each other with … words. They use sacred
words, which embody their solemn commitment: “I promise to love you and honor you all the
days of my life.” These words, he said, bring a covenant, bring a marriage, into existence.
Both Erica and Ken said they see themselves getting involved in IHM parish activities as their
married life unfolds. “I think we’ll move into it, especially when we have kids,” Erica said. “It
creates a structure, you meet other parents, and it’s good family time,” Ken added.
After dating for many years, how do they feel being married? “It’s formal now. It makes all the
puzzle pieces come together,” Erica said. “She’ll always be my bride,” Ken beamed.
Photography by Ron Shuller’s Creative Images
13
HeartBeat
14
September 2012
Engaging Spirituality in This Year of Faith
BY JACK NEWFIELD
T
he community of Immaculate
Heart of Mary will respond in
many ways to the call for the Year
of Faith. One offering will be a program
for small faith groups, “Engaging
Spirituality” that is focused on developing spirituality through contemplative
prayer and meditation and engaging that
spirituality in being a “bearer of Christ.”
The program has been developed by
the JustFaith Ministries. This group has
developed a number of programs and
their “flagship” offering is the
program called “Just Faith.” The Just
Faith program has been offered a
number of times at IHM and has over
300 graduates in the Archdiocese.
Participants have testified to the well
organized structure of the program and
the effects on their lives.
The “Engaging Spirituality” program
has been available for a few years and
used in other parishes around the country.
Offers daily practices for living
The Year of Faith
BY JACK NEWFIELD
C
atholics will be hearing more about the upcoming “Year
of Faith” proclaimed by Pope Benedict XVI. It will begin
Oct. 11, 2012 –– the 50th anniversary of the opening of
the Second Vatican Council –– and conclude Nov. 24, 2013 ––
the feast of Christ the King. A central feature of the Year of
Faith will be an emphasis on the “new evangelization.”
This phrase requires some examination since for many
Catholics the notion of evangelization causes feelings of anxiety. As quipped by Dave Nodar, Director of CHRISTLIFE
Catholic Evangelization Services, an apostolate of the
Archdiocese of Baltimore:
The term, evangelization, itself for most Catholics sounds
Protestant. Additionally the Catholic Church is understood by
many her own members, as well as by those outside her life, to
be primarily liturgical, pastoral, and hierarchical. One might
argue: "Isn't evangelization and missionary activities something Protestants do?"
However, Vatican II has highlighted the role of the laity in
evangelization and successive Popes have clarified the role.
"The new evangelization," according to John Paul II, "is not a
matter of merely passing on doctrine but rather of a personal
and profound meeting with the Savior."
According to the United States Conference of Catholic
Bishops:
The New Evangelization seeks to invite modern man and
culture into a relationship with Jesus Christ and his Church.
The New Evangelization calls all Catholics first to be evangelized and then in turn to evangelize. This renewed vision of
evangelization includes, as Pope Benedict XVI has stated, the
challenge to “propose anew” the Good News to all of the
Christian faithful, most especially to those of the faithful who
are absent from the Lord’s Table.
So the New Evangelization has a component of deepening
spiritual life which, in the statement of the Bishops, involves
the understanding that:
The public profession of one’s faith through active participation in prayer, the sacraments, and especially Sunday Mass
contributes to the sanctification of the world. Additionally, the
works of charity and justice as well as the promotion of solidarity, justice, peace, and stewardship of creation build up the
Kingdom of God.
The challenge of the Year of Faith, said Archbishop Rino
Fisichella, the President of the Vatican Council for New
Evangelization, is that:
We cannot conduct a new evangelization without new evangelizers. To be an evangelizer is a vocation born on the very
day of our baptism. The proclamation of the Gospel cannot be
delegated to others; rather, it requires the awareness specific
to the believer that he or she is to be a bearer of Christ
wherever they go.
Our call to action is clear in this Year of Faith.
deeply (a contemplative life) and
loving broadly (a compassionate life).
These practices include activities and
attitudes that foster reverence such as:
- Mindful attention to the moment
- Recreation and rest
- Compassionate outreach
- Spiritual reading
- Prayerful listening
The program is designed to assist individuals in their personal spiritual development and then to “engage” that spirituality as an evangelical follower of Christ.
The program consists of 21 sessions
that can be scheduled at the convenience
of small groups over the course of the
Year of Faith. Certified facilitators will
be provided for each group.
You are invited to join a group at
an organizational meeting on Sunday,
Nov. 4, in the Blessed Mother Room
of the Parish Welcome Center, 11 a.m.
Further information about the program
can be found at www.justfaith.org
or you can contact Jack Newfield at
newfield6@fuse.net.
IHM School Announces Awards
BY DEBBI HILL
S
everal special scholarships were announced at the end of the year academic assembly for
Immaculate Heart of Mary’s Parish School. Scholarships were awarded to students in grades
six and seven. Eighth grade scholarships were announced at graduation.
6th Grade Marian Scholarship: This scholarship is awarded to two students who will be entering IHM School’s seventh grade. The scholarships are financed by former IHM parishioners in
honor of their children who attended and graduated from IHM School. This scholarship was
awarded to Daniel Kuhn and Anne Marie Sherlock
7th Grade PTO Academic Effort Scholarship is awarded to one boy and one girl entering IHM
School’s eighth grade. This scholarship was awarded to Erin McHale and Drew Lekowski.
7th Grade Parish Stewardship Scholarship is awarded to one boy and one girl entering IHM
School’s eighth grade. This scholarship was awarded to Cameron Massa and Christiane Hazzard.
7th Grade Gretchen Geers Memorial Scholarship is funded by her family and was awarded to
Maria Mentzel.
7th Grade Parish Stewardship Scholarship –
Cameron Massa and Christiane Hazzard
7th Grade Academic Effort Scholarship –
Drew Lekowski & Erin McHale
6th Grade Marian Scholarship –
Anne Marie Sherlock and Daniel Kuhn
7th Grade Gretchen Geers Memorial
Scholarship – Maria Mentzel
September 2012
HeartBeat
15
Congratulations to the Immaculate Heart of Mary School
Class of 2012
peers for exhibiting qualities of dependability,
cooperation, leadership, patriotism and cleanliness
of speech and habit. The Good Citizenship Awards
were presented to Matthew Cornell, Claire Burns,
Sarah Henkes, Clayton Merk, Sarah Tippenhauer,
Bradley York
BY DEBBI HILL
T
he following students have completed the
course of study prescribed for elementary
schools of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati and
have merited Certificates of Promotion:
Matthew Albrinck, Jack Allbright, Connor Bartlett,
Zachary Bertoia, Samuel Bruno, Griffin Buczek,
Alexandra Burbick, Alissa Burns, Maria Ciampone,
Mary Clark, Matthew Cornell, Helen Curran, Claire
Daly, Clayton Dause, Evan Dennis, Mary Dowling
Parra, Parker Fenno, Melissa Frey, Samantha Gilbert,
Lauren Gliebe, Cullen Gray, Michael Grotton, Kelsey
Harbert, Wyatt Heffernan, Sarah Henkes, Connor
Higgins, Adam Hisch, Brandon Holaday, Elyse
Karsten, Margaret Klett, Daniel Kopcha, Benjamin
Kott, Brynna Maxey, Tanner McDole, Joshua
McSwigan, Adam Meister, William Merk, Alexis
Miner, Jamie Misleh, Katalyn Orleck, Maureen
Owens, Ellie Peters, Charles Phillips, Madelyn Rau,
Benjamin Roberts, Eve Sahulka, Owen Schuh,
Elizabeth Simmons, Nicholas Staderman, Stephanie
Stoops, Bryce Stricker, Matthew Taylor, Nicholas
Taylor, Sarah Tippenhauer, Nathaniel Turner, Grace
Varley, Clara Weisheit, Charles Wellman, Jonathan
Wenzel, Maria Woeste, Bradley York.
Immaculate Heart of Mary School Scholarships
The evening of June 1, 2012, during eighth gradegraduation ceremonies, the following awards and
scholarships were announced:
The Brother Edward Kesler CFP Christian Student
Scholarship was created for deserving eighth graders
to be used toward tuition at a Catholic high school.
Criteria include proven willingness to unselfishly
serve God and the Parish, notable acts of kindness,
thoughtfulness, compassion and justice with a commitment to a Catholic, Christian life. The recipients
of the Brother Edward Kesler CFP Christian Student
Scholarship were Maria Ciampone and Bradley York.
Sister Therese Beringer Scholarship – Stephanie Stoops
with Ms. Benvie
The following students have earned the
2012 Outstanding Academic Excellence Award by
meeting the criteria of the U.S. Department of
Education to qualify for the President’s Education
Award: Jack Allbright, Alexandra Burbick, Claire
Burns, Maria Ciampone, Matthew Cornell, Benjamin
Kott, Brynna Maxey, Elizabeth Simmons, Stephanie
Stoops, Matthew Taylor, Sarah Tippenhauer
high school. Stephanie Stoops was selected by the
Faculty to receive this scholarship.
Scholarships, awards from local high schools based
on students’ performance on entrance tests:
4-year renewable Full Tuition Academic Scholarship
and Admission with Honor:
Jack Allbright, Benjamin Kott, Matthew Taylor
(Archbishop McNicholas High School); Benjamin
Kott (Purcell Marian High School)
4-year renewable Partial Tuition Academic
Scholarship and Admission with Honor:
Mary Kathleen Dowling-Parra, Brynna Maxey,
Maureen Owens (Archbishop McNicholas High
School), Matthew Cornell (Purcell Marian High
School), Jack Allbright, Benjamin Kott, Matthew
Taylor (Archbishop Moeller High School)
Father Joseph Hageman Scholarship – Daniel Kopcha
with Ms. Coyle and Mrs. Head
The following students have earned the
2012 Outstanding Academic Achievement Award
by meeting the criteria of the U.S. Department of
Education to qualify for the President’s Education
Award: Samantha Gilbert, Michael Grotton, Sarah
Henkes, Daniel Kopcha, Molly Owens, Benjamin
Roberts, Clara Weisheit
Aubrey Rose Foundation Scholarship: Samantha
Gilbert and Brynna Maxey
Congratulations to our Parish School graduates
and to all Parish Class of 2012 students!
Elizabeth Simmons receives a Certificate of Promotion
Military Scholarship: Evan Dennis, Sarah Henkes,
Charles Phillips (Archbishop McNicholas High School)
Bro. Edward Kesler CFP Christian Student Scholarship –
Bradley York and Maria Ciampone with Bro. Ed
Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish established the
Father Joseph Hageman Scholarship for one member
of the graduating class who represents the best qualities exemplifying an Immaculate Heart of Mary
School student who will be attending a Catholic high
school. Daniel Kopcha was selected by the faculty to
receive this scholarship.
Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish established the
Sister Therese Beringer Scholarship for one member
of the graduating class who represents the best
qualities exemplifying an Immaculate Heart of Mary
School student who will be attending a Catholic
Admission with Honor/Distinction: Maria Ciampone,
Claire Daly, Mary Kathleen Dowling-Parra, Samantha
Gilbert, Connor Higgins, Brynna Maxey, Maureen
Owens, Stephanie Stoops, Bryce Stricker (Archbishop
McNicholas High School), Maria Ciampone,
Samantha Gilbert, Brynna Maxey, Maureen Owens,
Stephanie Stoops (St. Ursula Academy), Evan Dennis,
Bryce Stricker (Archbishop Moeller High School),
Samantha Gilbert, Stephanie Stoops (Ursuline Academy)
Scholarships and Awards announced at the
Academic Awards Assembly
The Cincinnati Chapter of the Sons of the
American Revolution presents an award to members
of the Class of 2012 who were nominated by their
Alexandra Burbick receives a Certificate of Promotion
16
HeartBeat
September 2012
Baptisms
May 2012
Benjamin Anthony Dardy, son of Mark and Alexandra
Chloe Annabelle Dardy, daughter of Mark and
Alexandra
Elena Sophia Longbottom, daughter of Christopher
and Staci
Mae Harper Shoemaker, daughter of Stephen and Holly
Norah Anne Shoemaker, daughter of Stephen and Holly
Gwyneth Suzanne Shoemaker, daughter of Stephen
and Holly
Shelby Reese Dwyer, daughter of Jeremy and Courtney
George Daniel Meltebrink, son of William and Kara
June 2012
Isis Ann Shea, daughter of Jeremy and Chasity
Alejandro Soto Cruz, son of Rafael and Karla
James Arthur Steelman, son of Dustin and Julia
Evie Lynn Simpson, daughter of Michael and Jennifer
Blake Russell Howard, son of Gregory and Mary Kay
Ava Marie Hall, daughter of Darrell and Natalie
Evan Michael Dreyer, son of Michael and Brigid
Gavin Michael Mlynek, son of Mark and Giselle
July 2012
Emma Grace Rinehart, daughter of Cody and Abbie
Roman James Bruns, son of Mark and Erin
Wyatt Francis Heyman, son of Dustin and Kathy
Gabriella Rocha Cohen, daughter of Timothy and
Gislene
Xander John Verkamp, son of Jeffrey and Shawna
Brody Michael Bruemmer, son of Michael and Ann
Lucy Jayne Brinkerhoff, daughter of Josiah and Holly
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.
May 2012
Michael &Julie Alexander
Ed & Kathy Biery and Liam
Ihor Chyzowych & Lisa Popyk-Chyzowych and
Christopher & Alexander
Mark & Alexandra Dardy and Claire, Benjamin &
Chloe
Dale & Eileen Geis and Erin & Jordan
Jake & Katherine Gilene and Avery, Luke, Reagan,
Declan & Lydia
John & Kris Luebbers and Benjamin & Matthew
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.
Jeff & Kristin McLane and William & Katie
Traci Oldendick
Richard & Janice Poluha
David & Laura Richardson and Audrey
Matthew Ryan & Lisa West and Kayden
Mark & Patricia Schneider and Emily & Peter
Keith & Jacinta Spinola and Maria & Connor
Dustin & Julia Steelman and James
Nathan & Christine Wangler
Geoff & Jennifer Zimmerman and William & Samuel
Emmett & Alexis McDonald
Timothy & Krista McKenna
Scott & Kellie Mlynek and Connor & Carter
Shannon & Michelle Morrison and Miya
Mary Ann O’Leary
Michael & Michelle Orlando and Santino & Maxwell
Jay & Elizabeth Rouse and Jonathan, Luke & Ella
Dale & Deborah Shepard and Dalen & Sylvia
Francis & Beth Shimkus and Kelly, Julie & Derek
Departures
June 2012
Laura Belfiore and Angelina
Kevin & Rebecca Bessenbach and Julie & Miles
Kenneth & Erica Birck
Derek & Kristen Brewer and Sophia & Nicole
David & Cheryl Caldwell and Brooke, Lillian &
Paige
Allen & Louise Delsch
Ben Dunlap & Amy Weller
Sean & Angela Harden and Mikhayla, Brooke,
Emma, Ryan, Alexis & Kyle
Carmen Huffman and Augustin, Jonathon, Vanessa,
Andrew, Veronica & Julia
Jason & Susan Hughes and Ethan, Sam & Charlotte
Michael & Anne Keefe and Caroline & Catherine
Larry & Debbie Krantz
Timothy & Jillian Miller and Ellie
Chima & Chinasa Okereke and Obioha
Larry & Rita Reed
Jessica Ruiz
Thomas & Joan Scanlon and Tatum, Marlee &
Abram
Jeffrey Scheper
James & Amanda Seibert and Benjamin & Nicholas
Andrew & Jennifer Weingartner and Lilly & Reid
July 2012
Michael & Mary Bruggeman and Joseph
Tim & Gislene Colen and Gabriella
Nelly Holguin and Lucas
Patrick Manley and Connor & Irelynn
Immaculate Heart of Mary bids good wishes and farewell
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.
May 2012
William Dorece
Rob & Mary Pat Hermanns
Martin & Sharon Jamieson
Stephen & Elizabeth Jenks and Alexander
Audrey Johnson
Richard & Barbara Regan & Jason
Mark & Marianne Schmitt and Caroline & Suzanne
Ted & Christine Sherman and Lucas
June 2012
Thomas & Karen Deere and T.J., Jacob & Isabella
Mark & Mary Mariska and Jarod, Elanor, Jocelyn &
Jillian
Vickie Misleh & Jamie
Steve & Laurie Reece
James & Mary Rieger
Jorge Rivera & Jackeline Torres and Jennifer & Jorge
July 2012
Jay & Mary Dougherty and Erin & Ronan
Danielle Gerome and Austin
Sheila Ryan
Big Thank You from Shop$mart
HEARTBEAT
BY MARGE ENGLISH
A publication of Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish,
7770 Beechmont Ave., Cincinnati, Ohio 45255
T
Phone: 388-4466
Pastor: Fr. Tom Kreidler
Editor: Elizabeth Bookser Barkley
Designer: John Nagy
Staff Liaison: Lisa Taylor
Published four times a year
Next deadline: Oct. 29 by noon to the parish.
Next issue will be mailed in mid-November.
All submissions are subject to editing.
hank you to all the IHM parishioners who
purchased gift cards from Shop$mart and/or
reloaded your IHM Kroger Neighborhood
Reward card (through April) and/or created a
Kroger.com account to participate in the new Kroger
Community Rewards Program and/or reloaded your
IHM Remke/bigg’s Caring Neighbor Reward card
and/or purchased ink and toner from Eco-Print
Solutions during this past fiscal year. Your efforts
reaped great rewards for IHM: $52,000 was
earned through these programs to benefit the
HM Parish Community.
Thank you! Thank you! Select the program or
programs that work best for your shopping, dining
and entertaining purchases. Stop in the Fatima Room
after any weekend Mass to find out more information
about all these programs.
Thanks for caring about your IHM Parish
Community. We are all blessed by your efforts to use
gift cards to pay for your purchases.