(You can’t tell that is what I’ve been writing about by some of the criticism that has been directed at me lately, so I’m feeling it as much as anyone.) Let’s pray that this Annual Meeting can be the start of that healing process.

I know that many in the Community haven’t had an opportunity to give voice to their concerns or frustrations, but may I suggest that instead of using this meeting as a forum, the Community call upon the Council to set another time when these matters can be addressed. Or, perhaps more effectively, personally address Council members new or old either individually or at a meeting.

Another thing the Community might consider is urging Council to come up with a list of all who have been offended through this prolonged time of discordance, and work specifically to mend fences.

And although there are questions that haven’t been answered, I think Bonnie Mar’s situation has been thoroughly addressed. Little will be gained by bring that up again.

There is much good here and much more good that we can do. I think we can make this meeting a new beginning for the Community. There also may be some areas where we will simply have to agree to disagree – that too is part of Community life.

As of this issue, Luis Gutierrez is stepping aside from editing Communio. We have found that the roles of Communio editor and Council president are not a comfortable fit, and this is more an amicable hiatus than a departure. I will welcome him back in the editor’s role when his time serving as Council president is completed. As of this issue, I will re-assume the editor’s role, so please direct all materials to me using the contact information listed at the end of Communio.

Here are some notes about content from me:

First I’d suggest that potential writers read the article in this month’s issue where Milwaukee Archbishop Timothy M. Dolan discusses civility. While Communio should continue to give voice to any in the Community, no matter their subject, concern or complaint, we should do it respectfully and civilly. Meanwhile, we certainly could use more articles that aren’t just focused on Community problems and disagreements, and more inspirational and humorous pieces would be very welcome.

I’d also like to ask writers to include their contact information – phone number and e-mail address, if they have one – on whatever they write. Even if you are in the roster, that would help us resolve questions more readily. Also, please include your affiliation; that is, if you are a Community or Parish member, please say so, or if you are writing on behalf of a committee or organization, please let us know your connection to it.

We have a long list to thank for sending in material this month: Patrick Burns, Richard and Mary Lou Giffels, Terry Gaydosh Jungquist, Carol Kuegeler, Chuck Garven, Helen Brinich, Štefan Kaòuk, Michael May, William Schubmehl, Dawn Stary, Fr. Tony, Rosemarie DeJohn and Luis Gutierrez.

Future issues and deadlines: May 25 with a May 11 deadline, June 22 with a June 8 deadline, and August 24 with an August 10 deadline.

* * * * *

Let’s Open Some Windows? 

I have been following the recent writings by CSM members who are concerned about the changes in how we are behaving as a community. These concerns seem to be focusing more and more on the power relationships between the Community and its Council, and the councils and boards of various ministries. I would like to suggest that we open the windows.

The beauty of the Second Vatican Council was that the bishops had the courage to open the windows and let the Holy Spirit blow some fresh, new life into the Church. The series of articles by Fr. William Shannon reminded us that the Council moved responsibility for the mission of the Church into the hands of the people of God. In this model the hierarchy and the laity each had a role – of equal importance.

It feels to me that this might be a great time for all of us open our CSM windows and pray for the Holy Spirit to blow some fresh, new life into our community. What can each of do to help the Council lead effectively? What can each of us do to strengthen the Community’s relationships with the various Malachi ministries? What can each of us do to make each other feel welcome and valued?

* * * * * *

Malachi House Volunteers Respond 

The recent “No Naming Rights” Communio article by Fred Leonard fairly cries out for a response. As two who have volunteered weekly for the last 10 years at Malachi House, we feel constrained to respond for Malachi House.

Since its inception in 1988, Malachi House has been the home to over 700 men and women in their final illness. With its recent expansion the House can accommodate 17 residents. To provide palliative care and support for 17 adults in extremus is a large undertaking requiring full time caregivers, cooks and administrative staff. Additionally, the House receives no government subsidies. It is solely supported by donations. Fund raising is a continuous and heavy responsibility. We are fortunate that the House is incorporated and is operated by an independent Board of Trustees who serve without pay.

At no time has Malachi House “closed their doors to many volunteers and members of the Parish and community” as alleged. On the contrary, Alice Sawyers, the volunteer coordinator at Malachi House, works with over 150 volunteers, many from the Malachi Parish and community, who regularly donate their time and talent to the House. Call Alice at 216-621-8831 and you will be welcomed into this small army of volunteers. They are an integral and necessary part of the mission of the House.

The name Malachi House was conferred at the time of its founding as an outreach of the St. Malachi Parish with the assistance of Joe Mohar and many other volunteers from he community of St. Malachi. The Malachi name has never been “abused” by the House. On the contrary, the name has been recognized and spread through a large geographical area because of the unique mission and the favorable reputation of the House.

With control comes responsibility. We do not believe the Malachi Community Council should shoulder the control and accompanying responsibility for Malachi House. Reading Bill McLaughlin’s recent report reinforces that belief. It is indeed regrettable if Fred Leonard feels frustration, but it appears that the founders were wise in establishing separate corporations separately accountable, with each having it’s own governing board.

* * * * * *

And The Real Issue Is ...

The recent articles by Frank Schiros and Fred Leonard have made one thing very clear to me. The real issue isn’t Bonnie Mar and her departure from Malachi Mart, it is authority and power in regards to all of the Malachi Ministries. The “unsettling concerns” which Frank wishes to discuss would best be talked about after some basic history is acknowledged. If the inspiration for some Malachi ministries came from/through some individuals of the Community of St. Malachi, then it is understandable that some feeling of ownership would exist. However, all of the ministries have evolved over the years (including Malachi Mart) and steps to maintain the vision and create a structure for future growth have been taken. If people are unaware of those steps, where have they been?

Fred’s sarcasm is clever, but it reflects a negative attitude about the situation at Malachi Mart. His assertion that the Malachi name has been abused is not even worthy of this sentence. The Community Council has no authority to change the names of anything, and neither does the Parish Council, and so it should be.

Any not-for-profit organization I’ve ever been associated with has had the same basic structure of any on the Ministries The main purpose of such structure is to maintain the vision and viability of the group. The Malachi Ministries ask for the support and respect of those who call St. Malachi their home; they are not accountable to us. From time to time there are vacancies on the Board and if an individual wants to get involved at that level, all it takes is a phone call to Cathy at the Center, or to one of the other Board members.

I really believe that there are other people who are weary of the discussion of this issue. Will you please let your feelings be known to Frank and Fred? There are so many other issues more worthy of the time and energy of our Councils. Thanks.

* * * * * *

Take A Closer Look At The Center 

Have any of the people who continue the complaints about the St. Malachi Center truly looked into the work of the Center or taken the time to join in the ministry? If so, I wonder why they don’t see the beautiful work that goes on there and focus on the positive? The Lord is truly alive in the daily work of the staff and in the relationships between, staff, volunteers, and the children and adults they serve.

· Over the years I have seen that many of the women from the neighborhood have been empowered through their association with the center and now volunteer and organize their own programs.

· The children and teens make positive strides and deep friendships that allow them to recognize that they are precious children of God.

· Men and women are able to maintain their dignity through the refreshment of a nice hot shower.

The letter from Frank Shiros that questions the Community’s control over the ministries it has created in the past brings to mind the reality of “giving birth” to a child. As parents, we are blessed with the life of a child to love nurture and guide into adulthood. Then it is our responsibility to “cut the cord” and allow that young adult to live his/her own life the way the Lord leads that individual. It is a truly difficult task for parents, but is essential for the growth of our offspring.

St. Malachi Center and Malachi House have been the Community’s children. We have nurtured them, raised them and given them guidance for many years. Now they continue to be ministries of St. Malachi’s, yet grown-up entities in their own right. We can be proud that our offspring are doing so well and have grown so much. Like our children, we remain part of their lives and offer guidance when asked. We might not always agree with the direction they take, but trust that God is guiding them. These ministries are non-profit organizations that are highly respected in the larger community. I am very happy and proud that they are now mature organizations that continue to offer loving service to so many who are in need!

The Community of St. Malachi and St. Malachi Parish continue to offer guidance to the Center through the Community and Parish members who serve on the Board of Trustees. If you would like to communicate your concerns or offer your services, please contact the following community members who serve as trustees:

· Rosemarie DeJohn

· Henry Speier

· Carol Kuegeler

· Kay Vine

The trustees who are not members of the Parish or Community have also devoted time, energy, financial resources and love to the work of St. Malachi Center. They are not heartless people, but dedicated individuals who we all would like to know. They have been called to this ministry and have given major assistance to its work.

Let’s allow the Lord to heal our differences. Let’s support our grown-up children in whatever ways they need us, open our eyes to other needs in the neighborhood and consider whether we are being called to give birth to another child. Only God can make this path clear.

Respectfully,

* * * * * *

‘A Disrespectful Attack’ 

This is a very sincere “thank you” to Luis Gutierrez for his appropriate removal of an article from Communio that was a disrespectful attack and lacked the sense of Christian charity (or even civility) that is required of any publication of the Community of St. Malachi. It would have been very easy for Luis to hide behind the important value of our “right of free expression.” We do value free expression of ideas, but at least in this Christian Community of St. Malachi, we need to be more respectful of those with whom we disagree. We even need to love the people with whom we are angry.

It is difficult for me to criticize those who put so much effort into writing for and editing Communio. I am grateful to them all for their hard work and I am not volunteering to replace them. That said, I too have become increasingly disturbed (ranging from annoyed to outraged at times) by much of the material in Communio. I have felt this gradually over the past couple of years and especially since last summer. We can all look up definitions of disrespectful, unloving, uncharitable (as I did), but in reality, when we see it (or read it), we recognize it.

I often agree with the overall message of many of the articles I find to have an objectionable tone. I love the Church (and believe that we are the Church) but work hard to make the Church better in ways that are important to me. The Church (and we members of it} often need to be criticized and challenged. I believe however, that some of the Communio content seen by the authors as “challenging and thought provoking”, is downright hostile and mean. It is making Communio less relevant to my journey of faith. The tone is becoming much more embarrassing to me, whether I agree or disagree with the content. I am going to support the editorial staff if they decided to filter out material that lacks a civil “Christian charity” standard. It is their obligation under the editorial policy of CSM publications.

Thanks again to all who work so hard on Communio. I am grateful for many, many of the articles, and sincerely appreciate the effort and time put in by all those involved with this publication. I know you can make it even better, even as we also work to make our Community of St. Malachi and Church better.

* * * * * *

In Defense Of Fred Leonard

I really don’t want to write this article, but I have to. I know that people have grown tired of this entire line of conversation and I understand. I have too – bone weary of it, as a matter of fact. So, if you haven’t been exposed to anything about this previously, please feel very free to skip it. On the other hand if you have heard another side to this story, I ask you to hear this one too. For those who will take issue with it, please read it carefully.

Last month, I stated my intention to back off from all this, “unless something new develops.” Unhappily, something did.

It appalls me to be writing about this again. It appalls me that more stalwart Community members have been alienated. And it appalls me that Fred Leonard’s article from the last issue of Communio was deleted – call it ‘censored’ if you will, that’s my word for it – from the online version at www.stmalachi.org, by Luis Gutierrez, who at the time had three roles: editor of Communio, chair of the Communications Committee and president of Community Council. Subsequently, it has been posted at:

www.geocities.com/fredsaintmalachi (It is safe to click ‘no’ to any error messages that might appear.)

Now this is a fairly complex affair, so please excuse this lengthy preamble, which continues with three points:

First, I’d like to stress that I am in no way taking issue with the many fine pieces of writing that appear this month that take Fred to task for what he wrote. My only purpose is to express my extreme outrage at the censoring of Fred’s article. To do that effectively, I must make the case that he had something of significance to say to the Community, and that means revisiting some old, unpleasant ground. If it hadn’t been censored, a lot of trouble would have been avoided.

Second, I need to point out that there was an unfortunate line in Fred’s article that I would like to take back if I could. It was a joke that fell very flat. I regret that I also passed on this line and apologize for that. (I’ve always been taught it is bad form to repeat such things.) Fred agreed to have that line deleted from the version of the article posted to the web site. It was completely taken off the web site anyway. However, the rest of what I write will proceed from the assumption that the offending line has been deleted, as it has from the above web page.

Lastly, the word ‘slander’ has been used to describe Fred’s article. Such an accusation is a serious matter if it proves false, and it’s false. ‘Slander’ applies to the spoken word. The intended term to describe the written word is ‘libel.’ For both slander and libel, an individual has to be clearly identifiable. There was no person identifiable in Fred’s article. Some people owe Fred a big apology.

Communio was intended from the beginning to be a unique publication in the ranks of parish newsletters. We have always had an extraordinary commitment to freedom of expression, a value more American than Roman Catholic, and one that frequently runs against the grain. Previously, the only things we have pulled from the web site was material where we had learned of copyright restrictions after the initial publication. Never before has anything written by a Community member been deleted. So the censoring of Fred’s article is a very big deal and I feel personally betrayed by the action.

For approaching a year now, we’ve had a seemingly unending string of articles about a personnel situation at Malachi Mart. Curiously, this has had nothing to do with theology, liturgy or the Church hierarchy, but it has frayed the nerves of the local power structure, and frustrated many on the sidelines, and wearied many readers of this publication. Many now blame Communio – it’s the old “kill the messenger” idea — but I say there are core issues that have yet to be sorted out.

Fred’s article points one of these issues out, apparently much to the dismay of certain people. To summarize one of his key points, he said that volunteers have not been treated properly in some of the independent ministries at St. Malachi’s. Is this true? Despite the ongoing focus on the terminated employee at Malachi Mart, scant attention has been paid to some Community volunteers were very offended by what happened and the aftermath. To me, that is the central conflict in that controversy, and it has yet to be resolved. I have heard from time to time of volunteer complaints at Monday Nite Meals, and never thought much about them, and until I spoke with Fred, I had never heard a complaint about Malachi House. I only mention all this to show that Fred was not making the volunteer problem up.

Now again, what I am seeking to demonstrate is that Fred’s article was too important to dismiss lightly and censor from the web site, and I contend that he was bringing a problem to light that leadership needs to consider. No matter what one may think of Fred, he is a person of stature and experience in the Community. He chairs the Social Action Committee and gives generously of himself. I think he has earned the right to speak out strongly when he feels the need to, and he deserves the Community’s and the Community Council’s attention. I’m inclined to give him the benefit of the doubt when I don’t possess all the facts in a given situation and I think that others should too.

Another controversy related to Fred’s article involves the independence of the ministries from the Community. Some say the Community should still have an element of control, while others say the Community should not get involved in any way – even to the extent of expressing concern in some way, like a resolution or a letter.

Fred suggested that the Community and Parish possess the rights to the name “St. Malachi” and the name could be withheld if we disagreed strongly enough with the actions of one or more of the ministries. I don’t know if any such rights could be asserted, but I do think that these actions reflect on us who constitute the church at St. Malachi’s. So again, I believe Fred has made a valid and thought-provoking point that deserves to be heard.

So what I conclude from all this is, absent the unfortunate line mentioned above, this was a significant article, and while it contained blunt language and offended some people here at St. Malachi’s, the Community was done a disservice by this decision to censor it from the Web site. The article should be restored, and when it is restored, it should be done in a way that makes up for the lack of visibility it would now have buried in the Communio archives.

* * * * * *

In Case You Missed It…

A large part of the Feb. 23 edition of Communio contained a long article submitted by Father Tony. Since it was so long it is possible that not everyone read the whole text with care. I want to call attention to just two sentences which are very important. “Most commentary has assumed that the only justifiable reason for “firing Bonnie” would be a major legal/moral offense of some obvious performance failure. This assumption is NOT valid.” This had not been said before. It should help to repair Bonnie’s damaged reputation.

* * * * * *

The Church In Slovakia

(Thanks to Fr. Tony for provided the following introduction to Communio: “Štefan Kanuk is a seminarian from the Archdiocese of Košice, Republic of Slovakia. Stefan is in his fourth year of seminary studies (of seven). The fourth year is his “pastoral year,” similar to the third-year internship program in the Cleveland Diocese. During this time, he has been participating fully in the life and ministry of St. Malachi, Parish and Community. He was sent by his seminary to the Diocese of Cleveland through the sponsorship of St. Andrew Abbey, the Benedictine Monastery in Cleveland, which has Slovak roots and affiliation. Štefan has been assigned to St. Malachi since the end of January. On Easter Monday, he will be leaving us. His next experience will be at Assumption Parish, Broadview Heights, which is staffed by the Benedictine community. At that time, his classmate, Štefan Osloviè will come to St. Malachi. They will complete their pastoral year experience in June and return to Slovakia in July. The article is the text of the presentation Štefan offered at the April Community Council meeting, and was also presented at the Parish Council. It presents the life and situation of a Church which most members of St. Malachi have little knowledge or experience of, thus broadening our understand of the Catholic Church.”)

Slovakia is a small country situated in central Europe. The country of Czechoslovakia was created in 1918, after the First World War. On January 1, 1993, Czechoslovakia was officially divided into two independent states: the Czech Republic in the west, and the Republic of Slovakia in the east. Slovakia is bordered by the Czech Republic, Poland, the Ukraine, Hungary and Austria. Slovakia has about 19,000 square miles, which is about 40% of Ohio’s 44,800 square miles and 187 times smaller than the United States.

The patrons of Slovakia are Saints Cyril and Methodius, who came to Slovak soil in 863. They were from a town called Solun, in southern Europe in the area of Yugoslavia. Therefore, many Slovak parishes in the United States, Canada and Austria are named after these two saints. The Catholic Church in Slovakia has deep roots.

One of the most difficult times for the Church in Slovakia was the Communist period. The Slovak and Czech nations lived under Communist rule from 1950 to the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989 – 40 years, two generations.

All the men’s monasteries were closed over the night of April 13-14, 1950. Four months later, the women’s monasteries were closed. Some monks and nuns were sent to work camps and others to prison. Those who took off their habits could go back to their families and get married. Seminaries were also closed, buildings destroyed and priests imprisoned. The seminary in the Diocese of Spis [where Martin Skladany, who was here two years ago is from] was converted to a police academy and the seminary chapel was turned into a cinema. Monasteries were converted into workplaces. Under communism, the government controlled the Church and determined the number of men who could be ordained priests. The five seminaries in Slovakia were combined into one – in Bratislava – and ordinations were limited to 10 a year for the whole country, a number too small to replace those who died. Under Communism, no churches could be built and existing churches could not be repaired. Books about Catholic theology or spirituality were burned and it was not permitted to publish new ones. Two generations grew up under Communist ideology with no knowledge of the history of the Catholic Church. Often the history of Slovakia was falsified. People were not permitted to know the truth.

Under Communism, Western Europe and North America were our enemies. For example, the Communists in Slovakia hated the Slovak Institute in Cleveland, which is still housed in the Benedictine Monastery and the Slovak Institute of Saints Cyril and Methodius in Rome because they supported the underground Catholic Church in Slovakia. Everyone who was discovered cooperating with these two institutions was arrested.

More than 200 priests were imprisoned and 123 died within the first year. Six bishops were also arrested. Bishop Jan Vojtasak was 72 years old when he was sentenced to prison for 24 years. Many priests worked in the uranium mines. Priests were housed purposely among criminals and prostitutes who tried to corrupt the priests. However, some prisoners decided to go to confession or to be baptized. Priests also secretly offered Mass for them. To give one example: Father Martin Potas, a Basilien priest, was closed and kept in solitary confinement in a cell with no windows, lights or heat for eight days. Everything was calculated to increase physical and psychological deprivation. They wanted him to die, but he called it “eight days of retreat.”

One of the most important persons in the Church during this time was Jan Korec. He was secretly made a bishop one year after his secret ordination as a priest at age 27. He lived as a layperson and worked in a factory during the Communist era. However, he constantly met with the underground Church and secretly ordained many seminarians and monks. In 1960, he was arrested and spent 12 years in prison. He is now the Cardinal.

When Communism fell in 1989, the Catholic Church had to reinstate the hierarchy in Slovakia, get the government to return the property of the Church, repair and build churches, schools and facilities. Unfortunately, many churches and church buildings had been left in ruins. The people have been very willing to help with repairing and rebuilding churches and other church buildings. However, the Church in Slovakia does not have the money for the great amount of work that was needed and has had to get help. One of the biggest donors was CAN – Aid to the Church in Need – an international Catholic charity created by the Vatican. In the United States, there is a yearly collection for the Churches in Eastern Europe, which also provides aid. Since 1989, over 100 churches and other buildings were rebuilt and about 100 new churches and other structures built.

The Church in Slovakia and the state are two different institutions, but they are not separated. When Communism ended, the state gave back the buildings and property which had been confiscated by the Communists. The government supports church schools, although if we compare the public and church school financing, the public schools do better. The state also pays the salaries of priests and teachers who teach in the church schools. The government does not finance the building and repair of sacred buildings or places.

Today, there are six Roman Catholic diocese and one Byzantine Catholic diocese in Slovakia. There is one Cardinal, two Archbishops, and 17 bishops for those dioceses. The Catholic Church has about 3,500 priests and 750 seminarians in five Roman Catholic and one Byzantine seminaries. Each year, about 110 young men are ordained priests. In the Archdiocese of Kosice where I live, there are 202 parishes served by 302 priests, with an average age of 38. Of the 1,000,000 people living in the Archdiocese, 650,000 are Catholic.

Slovakia has 5,400,000 inhabitants; 84% are Christian: 74% are Catholic and 10% Protestant or Orthodox and 12% are atheists. About 4,000,000 Slovaks are Catholic and are served by 3,500 priests, which mans about 1 priest for every 1,200 people. However, not every diocese has enough priests.

In Slovakia, there are 146 Catholic schools, one Catholic university and three theological faculties at the public universities. Religion classes are taught to children both in Catholic and public schools in both elementary and grammar (high) school. There are several religious institutions and movements which offer education for adults. Retreats offered by monks, and especially by the Jesuits, are very popular. Generally, the parish priest invites a religious to come to the parish for a mission of one or two weeks. This type of evangelization has been very successful. Through the mission, people who have not gone to Confession sometimes for 20, 30, even 40 years have returned to the Sacraments.

After 14 years of freedom, the Catholic Church in Slovakia now realizes that it is necessary to invest much more in evangelization and pastoral projects because for many, preaching in church is their only source of religious education; many people who grew up during Communism do not have enough education about morality or the catechism. There are about 40 Christian magazines published. However, in general, reading books is not very popular for people over the age of 30, which is bad.

Since Communism ended, many dangerous influences began to come in: different sects, Asian religious movements, propagation of the homosexual lifestyle, esoteric music, yoga, and other practices. I personally think that television programs are getting worse. Fortunately, the number of abortions is going down, but in recent years the number of divorces is going up.

Over 2,000 lay people have graduated from the theological departments, but most of them do not work in the Catholic Church because they have not been able to find a job in Catholic dioceses or parishes. The Church’s participation in social work is not good enough at this time. The bishops realize more and more that the Catholic Church in Slovakia needs more priests and lay people who would be able to take care of the different spheres of social work. We need more formation in this area through meetings, addresses and presentations. By the way, one of the reasons that the seminarians from Slovakia are sent for the pastoral experience to parishes for one year is just this social aspect. The bishops have decided to establish a program called “The Extension of Trust” in each diocese where people can call with their problems.

There are a number of Catholic organizations which care for:

· Handicapped people

· Charitable homes for retired priests and nuns

· Mothers and children in need

· Psychological, social and sexual problems

· Shelters for homeless people

· Refugees from Asia

· Professional help for persons with alcohol and drugs and AA programs, which are just starting

There are also several diocesan charities. What we do not have are parish charities. We also need better organization and cooperation, as you have in the U.S.A.

They feel with the suffering of others who are in need. In there last three or four years, there were big floods in Slovakia, the Czech republic and all over Europe. People were ready to help. Every year, our seminary in Kosice, St. Charles Borromeo, is given food by people. We often have more potatoes and vegetables than we need, so we send food to the monasteries around Kosice and to the seminary in Spis. Every day except Sunday and during the winter, people come from parishes to help with rebuilding our seminary in Kosice, which is not yet complete.

The Catholic Church in Slovakia participates quite well in Ecumenism and often Catholics are the organizers of Ecumenical meetings.

The Catholic Church in Slovakia is both an old church, with a long history, and, at the same time, a new Church still growing and developing. We are proud of our heritage and our endurance during the Communist persecution. We eagerly accept the challenge and the opportunity of the new millennium and the new evangelization.

* * * * * *

Parish Member Gets A Vote On Community Council 

During the past year I have served on the Community Council. I committed to doing this prior to the Community’s annual meeting last year. Even though I tried to live up to the commitment that I had made, it was the event of the annual meeting that caused me to decide that, from that date onward, I would attend the Parish of Saint Malachi masses and that I would support them financially. My decision was based upon the mistrust that I witnessed during that annual meeting — especially on the part of elder members of the Community. Haggling over issues like the choice between using the word Commission over Committee and the reluctance to reciprocate in a single vote shared between Parish and Community to me does not express a willingness to create the “Vibrant Parish Life” envisioned by our Bishop.

This has been a difficult decision to carry through because of the many friends and good experiences that I encountered as a Community member. But I felt that I needed to participate in a parish life that is more in tune with the bishop’s theme of cooperation.

I will not continue to serve on the Council after this year but it seems ironic that this has actually resulted in a Parish member getting a vote on Council for the past year!

* * * * * *

Baseball and Racism

With war foremost in our minds and hearts, the coming baseball season seems so trivial.

But racism is never trivial.

I note that on the Cleveland American League Baseball Team’s uniforms, in the schedule fliers and in the signs around the ball field, both the size and number of “Wahoos” is diminished. Now the “I” is featured. Maybe they plan to rename themselves the “Invaders” or “Invalids” or “Incompetents” or even “Incomepoops.” Who knows!

But whatever new name may be chosen, I am sure the intent will be only to honor that chosen group.

* * * * * *

Summit On Homelessness

These past several months many Americans’ minds, with good reason, have been focused on issues overseas. Our men and women have responded to the call to serve their country and our prayers are with them. During times such as these however, it is also important to take a moment and refocus on issues affecting our own neighborhoods.

In the face of Catholic Charities closure of its women and children emergency shelter, and a critical shortage of affordable housing in Cleveland, the prospect of abolishing homelessness in Northeast Ohio may seem a daunting and even unrealistic possibility. However, a group of individuals feeling positive changes in policy supporting the homeless can be made gathered Friday, Mar. 28 for Ohio’s 10th Congressional District’s Second Summit on Homelessness. Although, Congressman Dennis Kucinich was unable to attend the meeting, at least 50 individuals representing an array of area agencies discussed the next step in proposing legislation to end homelessness in the Cleveland area.

The initial hour of the Summit was used as a forum for individuals to discuss the memorandum compiled and distributed after the First Summit on Homelessness in February of this year. Suggestions were given and changes made to the original five sections of the memorandum to Mr. Kucinich. Of the five areas being considered — housing, employment, policy, social service and quality of life — the weightier suggestions came to the areas of policy and social services. In the realm of policy, it was proposed that the State of Ohio was not “pulling its weight” by seemingly not offering enough funding for affordable housing, and was providing little security for potentially homeless persons, such as felons re-entering their community. Under the topic of social services, such suggestions were made as creating better communication between organizations delivering services to the homeless, and providing more sufficient information about already existing programs for homeless persons.

Following the open discussion, the larger group broke into smaller groups to discuss the five sections of the memorandum at greater length. Sitting in the “housing” group as a representative for New Alternatives, Inc., a consulting firm for issues in low-income housing, members argued change is required on the local, state and federal level. An overwhelming consensus agreed that political leaders should be challenged to speak out on behalf of the homeless in their community and quell such sentiments as “not in my backyard” to ensure that the needs of the homeless are being met.

The larger group re-assembled sharing its ideas and proposals for the future piece of legislation. The latest information will again be compiled and sent to Mr. Kucinich to be evaluated and discussed. In addition, a Third Summit on Homelessness will be held in the near future to address further steps for change.

If you are interested in learning more about the past or future Summits on Homelessness please contact the office of Congressman Kucinich at (216) 228-8850.

* * * * * *

Milwaukee’s Archbishop On Civility

(The topic of civility has been much on the minds of many in the Community. The following is excerpted from a Mar. 18 address by Milwaukee Archbishop Timothy M. Dolan to the Wisconsin State Legislature. We are grateful to Fr. Tony for sending it in to Communio and for securing permission to reprint it. The excerpt starts after introductory comments directed to the legislators.)

Just recently I finished reading Peggy Noonan’s latest book, When Character Was King, a biography of Ronald Reagan. In a particularly poignant section, she describes his current condition caused by advanced Alzheimer’s: he is helpless, speechless, clueless, recognizing no one, not even his beloved Nancy; he needs help for the most elementary needs. Yet, yet, Noonan observes, when he inadvertently bumps the arm of the nurse feeding him, or steps on her toes as she leads him to the bathroom, he spontaneously looks at her and earnestly says, “I’m sorry; excuse me; I hope I did not hurt you.” The author offers this as proof of Ronald Reagan’s innate, ingrained civility and courtesy, perhaps the first virtues he learned as a child, the last to go in an old man.

And, believe it or not, considering all the weighty topics I could address, that’s what I want to speak about this morning: civility. I propose that’s another thing that brings us together: we all agree that our society desperately needs civility.

Also, recently, I was reviewing a book being readied for this October, for the 25th anniversary of Pope John Paul II’s accession to the Chair of St. Peter. This book is a series of recollections by people on their encounters with the Holy Father this past quarter century. A journalist recalls how she finally earned the chance to be one of the lucky press-pool to accompany the Pontiff on his plane for an international trip. She pushed and clawed and knocked people over to get the first seat, because she knew the practice of the Holy Father to come back into the cabin during the flight to spend an hour or so with the press, and she wanted to be the first to ask him a question. Sure enough, a couple of hours into the flight, she was absorbed in her laptop, when she sees a white sleeve, a hand with the fisherman’s ring, reaching in front of her, to shake her hand. It was the Pope! She panics to stand up and stick a microphone in his face and ask the first question, but she can’t unfasten her seat belt. The security guards move the Pontiff on into the crush of the other waiting journalists, and her once-in-a-lifetime chance is gone. After the hour visit with the press, the Holy Father is escorted back to his private cabin, surrounded by security, all the journalists obeying the protocol that he is now to return and the time is up. As he passes our journalist in the front seat, he stops, turns to her, and says, “I think I surprised you when I entered, and you were unable to speak with me. Is there a question you wanted to ask?” Civility.

Scholars, commentators, pundits, authors far wiser than I observe a destructive tendency in our society to throw to the side all civility, which I contend is the cement that keeps a respectful, trusting, productive society and community focused and fruitful. You all daily labor in esteemed public service where one’s word is trusted, one’s commitments are kept, one’s colleagues, even when on the opposite side of an issue, are treated with dignity, where authority is shown deference, where manners help make the pressures of the day bearable. You are also on the front lines and know that the courtesy and civility we depend on to keep us peaceful and humane are threatened by forces such as rage, raw ambition, selfish greed, lack of basic honesty, and just plain rudeness.

As Belloc wrote:

Of courtesy, it is much less than courage of heart or holiness. Yet in my walks it seems to me That the grace of God is in courtesy.

Or, as St. Francis of Assisi observed: “Realize, dear brothers and sisters, that courtesy is actually one of the properties of God, who gives His sun and rain to the just and the unjust out of courtesy; and courtesy is the sister of charity, by which hatred is vanquished and love is cherished.”

We need an injection of civility, my friends. It is in short supply. As a learned old professor of mine comments, “The barbarians are not at the gate; they’re in the next room watching TV.”

It might be good to recall the three foundations of civility.

One, self-respect: We honor ourself as a child of God, made in His image, His priceless work of art, endowed with inalienable rights and duties, destined for eternity. Thus do we treat ourselves with immense reverence, and only allow words and actions to flow from us that are worthy of our birthright.

Two, a respect for others: What I believe about myself, I believe of others, and thus will only treat others as the reflection of the Divine they truly are. Thus is life itself sacred, as we believe that each of us is created in the likeness of God, that every one of us matters, that no person is defined by someone else’s choices, that no life exists only as a means to someone else’s ends.

This idea that life is sacred is not a uniquely Catholic proposition, but a self-evident truth, identified as such by the Founders. In my short time here, I have clearly seen that the people of Wisconsin respect life, from womb to tomb. That reverence for the sacredness of life will guide the thoughtful discussion now going on as to how to pursue new scientific technologies. The debate is complex — the pivotal ones usually are. But the very fact that we are debating so seriously reflects our conviction that life itself is a core value, and that technology serves life and does not master it.

Three, civility is based on the common sense conclusion that society — whether as small as my home or office, or as large as this State of Wisconsin — can only survive, prosper, and fulfill its purpose if it is well-ordered by virtue and responsibility; that there is an inherent solidarity among us all, that a concern for the other and the wider-community is essential to ordered living; that, as Pope John Paul II observed to the Parliament of his beloved Poland, “A democracy without values, ethics, and morality can easily become totalitarian,” or, as he remarked to the United Nations, “True freedom is the right to do what we ought, not what we want.” And the unit of our community that is most essential to the common good we all serve is the family — mother, father, children — who look to Church and Government to support them, keep them united, and protect them.

Let me wind down by just mentioning a few specifics about civility that I hope all can find helpful.

A civil person is deferential and sensitive to those in need, especially the weak, the sick, the elderly, the poor, the handicapped, the young, the defenseless. This is why we welcome continued collaboration with you in the vast array of educational, health care, and charitable services in the State. As you know, the Catholic Church in Wisconsin is the largest private provider of care for the sick and aged, service to poor, hungry, homeless, and troubled, and education for our children, and I pledge to you that we want to continue as allies and partners in these noble causes.

A civil person is hospitable: venit hospes, venit Christus — “when a guest comes, Christ comes” — the wise proverb goes. Thus do we welcome newcomers to our cities, towns, and villages, from all possible races, ethnic backgrounds, and economic conditions, with the same warm embrace given our ancestors who came here decades ago looking for a new home.

A civil person is temperate: By this I mean that a tone of respect for the other, a lack of acrimony, and a climate of trust characterize our public discourse.

A civil person is honest. Leaders of Church and State depend on the trust of their people. Our citizens and congregations expect from us an integrity of life. Sometimes that honesty moves us to admit painfully that this trust has been squandered, something the religious and political community both wrestle with, and that this trust must be restored, and can only be so by selfless service and integrity of life, exemplified so well by Thomas More, the patron saint of public servants, who gave his life rather than go against his conscience.

Religious leaders and lawmakers have something in common with each other and with the people we serve. We are all made of clay. Some days we are saints, some days sinners. I face that challenge, finding myself humbled by the mistakes of members of a Church I love deeply, gratified by the support of our people, determined to set things right. I trust you can relate to such feelings. Healthy communities, be they communities of citizens or of faith, are resilient and hopeful. They want leaders who, though contrite, remain committed. I ask for your prayers as I face the challenges in my own house, and promise you mine as you confront your own.

And, finally, civility means gratitude: “Thank you” is the phrase most often found in the conversation of the courteous person — his/her conversation with God, and conversations with others.

Gratitude is the insurance for civility in this era of entitlement, where we are told to watch out only for number one, where we are led to believe that we have everything coming to us, where we are tempted to ask what others can do for us instead of what we can do for them; that God, country, society, Church owe us something but can expect nothing from us in return; where privacy, pleasure, and convenience seem the only inalienable rights. For us baby-boomers thought to be spoiled and generation Xers said to be selfish — gratitude moves us to acknowledge that everything we have is a gift from God and all He asks from us in return is that we use it all for His glory and the good of others.

To go on longer would be rude, my friends. And now I’m wondering if I’ve wasted your time. Of all the things I could have spoken about to such a prominent group of leaders — war, justice, violence, drugs, education, W-2, the budget, the environment, pro-life issues — all the towering issues, and here I speak on something as simple as civility? You bet I do, with much conviction, because if we lose that — and we’re in danger of doing so — we’ll lose our noble battles on all the other challenges. Sometimes we can’t do much about all those other issues, but we can always do something about courtesy and civility. Sometimes more important than what we do is how we do it.

Thank you! God bless you! God bless this great State of Wisconsin! God bless America!

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Holding Peace

(Thanks to Rosemarie DeJohn for forwarding the following e-mail letter from author Christiane Northrup to Communio. It came in shortly before the last issue went to press and shortly before the war began. But it still has meaning. As Rosemarie wrote: “We need to think like this always, not just in time of war. Maybe we could effect some healing here at Malachi’s with thoughts like these... just a prayer and it’s always worth a try!)

Dear Friends,

The fear and anxiety caused by the possibility of war are the biggest health challenges we face right now. As a physician, I know full well that emotions such as fear and anger impede the healing process and, if held long enough, actually lock us into a vicious cycle that produces more pain, more fear, and more anxiety. This can wreak havoc on our minds, bodies, and spirits. But this doesn’t have to be the case.

There are very specific things each of us can do right now to help prevent war and at the same time create peace in our bodies, minds, and spirits. I was strongly reminded of this during this week. Both of my daughters called from their respective colleges with concerns and worries about what they’ve heard on the news about a possible terrorist attack. One wanted to know what I thought about stockpiling cash, water, and canned goods. Her roommate’s mother had sent them warnings. The other daughter wanted to know if I thought it was safe for her to go to NYC this weekend. I told them to go about their lives as usual, while paying attention to their inner guidance. I reassured them that they each had access to guidance from within that would lead them in the right direction if they paid attention. I also gave them a way to think about the current global situation that leads to healing and peace, not further conflict, and shared with them my unshakable belief that each of us has the power, through our thoughts and emotions, to influence the energy of the planet in a way that helps prevent further conflict and also creates peace. Here’s what you can do.

1. Use your thoughts wisely. Understand their power. Thoughts have a tendency to become their physical equivalent. This is one of the fundamental laws of the universe. Another one is the law of attraction, which states that “like attracts like.” Because it is consciousness that creates reality, the kind of consciousness you hold-your vibration actually creates the kind of life you’re living. It’s impossible to create peace and harmony if you’re pushing up against a war. It’s impossible to create peace and harmony if you’re condemning George Bush, Dick Cheney, Colin Powell, etc. You don’t have to agree with them, but realize that you’ll be contributing to the energy that creates war if you assume an “embattled” mentality concerning them. The split in our nation right now about war is actually creating more of the energy of war. It’s not possible to “fight” for peace without creating war.

2. To create peace, you have to be peaceful. The only way to stop war is to start from within yourself. You must do personal disarmament. The only way to get and stay peaceful is to concentrate on what brings you peace and resist the downward spiral of negative emotions that blames others for your lack of peace. Remember, that to which you give your attention expands. Although there is no denying that we’re in a perilous and frightening position right now, that doesn’t mean we are powerless to change it. But the only way to do so is by changing your thoughts and emotions from those of anger, hatred, and fear to those associated with compassion and peace.

Spend 30 seconds several times a day creating a “virtual” reality of what peace would look and feel like. Imagine that it’s a year from now and the economy is flourishing. George Bush is radiantly healthy; the governments of the free world are all cooperating to ensure global harmony and peace. And Saddam and Bin Laden and their influence have disappeared from the planet. Imagine all our soldiers back home and reunited with their families. Imagine a global village in which all of us can travel freely and joyously and with understanding and acceptance of each other’s cultures. When thinking about Iraq or North Korea, imagine the women and children. Send your energy and compassion to them. Don’t try to change the men of these countries. In fact, don’t even give them any thought lest you energize them. Withdraw your energy from them so that you will no longer be “feeding” them.

Dozens of studies have documented the fact that our thoughts can and do affect others in profound and measurable ways. When a critical mass of individuals (1 percent of the population) was brought together to practice Transcendental Meditation in various areas of the world, for example, there was a measurable decrease in the number of violent crimes, suicides, terrorist attacks, and even international conflicts worldwide. (Orme-Johnson, et al. (1988). International Peace Project in the Middle East: The effect of the Maharishi technology on the unified field. (Journal of Conflict Resolution, vol. 32, (4), pp. 776-812.) There are also over 180 studies that have documented the positive effect of prayer on everything from other humans to yeast cells.

3. Imagine all the angels and non-physical beings who are working on the other side to protect and uplift all of us. Know that they can only do their work in an atmosphere of compassion, not condemnation. The energy of condemnation will prevent them from connecting with the hearts of those who most need their inspiration and love.

4. Avoid watching the news and reading the newspapers. Headlines are designed to keep you afraid and disempowered so that you will buy more papers or watch more TV. Then you get “hooked” on the news because you’re waiting for some official “guidance” that will keep you safe and secure. This simply can’t happen, because it’s not the way the media is set up. The media is designed to get you riled up, so that you remain tuned in to the “chain of pain.” The only lasting safety and security come from the peace that you create within yourself. What’s safe for one person will be dangerous for another. Remember all the hundreds of stories from Sept. 11, about the people who were supposed to be at the World Trade Center but, for hundreds of different reasons, simply weren’t there that day. Tune in to how you are feeling when you’ve severed the influence of the mass media. This will give you the guidance you’re seeking.

5. Finally, know that when you are tuned into your heart, your Inner Wisdom, and God, then your energy lightens up and your vibration literally changes. You become a beacon of light and peace. You become an uplifter and a peacemaker. There’s an old saying, “The rising tide lifts all boats. But it won’t raise a stone.” Stop looking at and thinking about the stones. Join me in raising the tide. And remember the words of the great M. K. Gandhi, “When in despair, I remember that all through history the way of truth and love has always won; there have been tyrants and murderers, and for a time they can seem invincible, but in the end they always fall.”

Warmly,

* * * * * *

The Apr. 8 meeting of St. Malachi’s Community Council convened at 7 p.m. at Urban Community School Library. It began with a scripture reading and faith sharing. The next Council meeting will be Sunday, June 1.

Frank Schiros requested to address Council. Frank expressed his belief that separate entities, i.e. the Malachi Ministries, have too much influence upon Council and that their interests are not necessarily ours. A related discussion followed about the removal of an article from Communio as published at www.stmalachi.org . Frank expressed his support for Fred Leonard, the author of the article, and offered his opinion that the Council should insist that the article be re-posted at the Malachi web site.

Luis Gutierrez said that the article was contrary to the stated editorial policy in the Community Handbook.

Fred Leonard spoke on his own behalf, defending the article, and expressing his strong displeasure with the action taken.

It was decided that the issues be discussed by the Communications Committee with an eye on making a proposal as to the final disposition of Fred’s article and considering more carefully what the editorial policy means.

Štefan Kaòuk, the seminarian from Slovakia, who has been serving at Malachi for the last three months, spoke of his experience with the Church in Eastern Europe.

Council approved funds for the mailing of the statement authored by the Sex Abuse Task Force that the Community approved. Bill McLaughlin reported that someone had put $100 in the collection, specifying that the money be used for this mailing. Kathy Burke, chair of the Task Force, indicated that about a third of the money originally thought to be necessary was needed and that the donation received should cover mailing expenses.

Pastor’s Report: The retaining wall and the area of the steps to the old church continued deteriorating over the winter. Because the wall is leaning and is beginning to crack, we will need to act this spring. With collections down and number of expenses up this year, Fr. Tony said he did not believe we can afford to do the complete job of removing the steps and repair of the stonework at this time, which will cost more than $30,000. Instead, the work will be done in stages. The first part, which should make the area safe, will consist of cutting down the wall on Washington to about three feet, taking out the steps and stone immediately behind the wall and sloping the earth. The estimated cost of this work is $12,500, which will come from Parish savings. The stone will be saved and will be used to the replace missing or damaged stone later.

Last year, Parish Council brought a proposal to the Community Council identifying the need to develop policies for our web site. Council referred it to the Communications Committee. Recently, Jeffery Gilman, the director of the Technology Office for the Diocese noted in an e-mail: “New resources are now online at www.dioceseofcleveland.org/policies. The Communications Committee will be discussing this important issue at their next meeting.

Congratulations to Sr. Michael Marie Griffin, OSU, who is celebrating her Golden Jubilee later this month. We thank God for her ministry and wish her Ad Multos Annos — many years! An informal decision was made to send Sr. Michael Marie an acknowledgement congratulating her on her 50th anniversary as a sister.

Vibrant Parish Life Fish Fry: The first presentation of the results for the VPL Self-Study Survey will be presented on Apr. 11. These are results for the Community and Parish combined. Separate results will be presented to the respective Councils sometime in May.

Council Nominations: As of the meeting, Ron Perger, Cynthia Bender and Luis were identifying candidates for the coming Council year. A number of people are actively discerning a possible role on Council.

Sex Abuse Task Force: Kathy Burke asked for $500 from budget for mailings. It was proposed that the Council budget be raised to $2000 to cover the added expense of the mailings. This change will be reflected in the proposed budget to be approved by Council at the June meeting. There was an informal decision that the Sex Abuse Task Force should be kept as an Ad-Hoc committee.

Welcome Cards: Cynthia Bender followed up on her idea of purchasing “welcome cards” to be placed in pews for people who are new to the 11 a.m. liturgy. The cards would have basic information about the Community and would include a phone number to call if they were interested in more information or in joining us. Cynthia noted that they are reasonably priced ($125 for 1000). Council voiced informal approval.

Monique Boudreau is stepping down as an at-large member of Council next year.